Minutes 01-14-25 Minutes of the Community Redevelopment Agency Board Meeting
Held on Tuesday, January 14, 2025, at 6:00 pm Or Soon Thereafter as the Special Joint Meeting
of the Community Redevelopment Board and the City of Boynton Beach Commission
City Hall Chambers, 100 E. Ocean Avenue and Online
Present:
Chair Ty Penserga Tim Tack, Acting Executive Director
Vice Chair Aimee Kelley Katheryn Rossmell, Board Counsel
Board Member Woodrow Hay Tammy Stanzione, Deputy City Clerk
Board Member Thomas Turkin
Board Member Angela Cruz
1. Call to Order
Chair Penserga called the meeting to order at 7:49 P.M.
2. Invocation
The Invocation was given by Board Member Hay.
3. Pledge of Allegiance
Vice Chair Kelley led the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.
4. Roll Call
Ms. Tammy Stanzione, Deputy City Clerk, called the roll. A quorum was present.
5. Agenda Approval
A. Additions, Deletions, Corrections to the Agenda
B. Adoption of Agenda
Chair Penserga asked the Board which items they wanted to hear from Section 16, CRA Projects
in Progress.
Board Member requested to hear Item 16A.
Chair Penserga noted that Item 15B would be removed. He also requested a future discussion on
a pay raise for Acting Executive Director Tim Tack, acknowledging his year of service and
dedication in maintaining operations. There was consensus.
Motion:
Board Member Cruz moved to approve the Agenda as amended. Board Member Hay
seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.
6. Legal
There was none.
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Boynton Beach, FL January 14, 2025
7. Informational Items and Disclosures by Board Members and CRA Staff:
A. Disclosure of Conflicts, Contacts, and Relationships for Items Presented to the CRA
Board on Agenda
Board Member Cruz disclosed that the applicant for Item 15C reached out, but no
meeting has been set.
Vice Chair Kelley disclosed that she had a conversation and meeting with the
representatives for Item 15C. Mayor Penserga disclosed the same.
Board Member Hay disclosed that he spoke with the representative for Item 15C.
8. Information Only
A. Quarterly Progress Report from BB QOZ, LLC for the 115 N. Federal Highway
Mixed-Use Project (aka The Pierce) - October 2024 - December 2024
B. Quarterly Progress Report #7 from Pulte Home Company, LLC for the Cottage
District Infill Housing Redevelopment Project - October 2024 - December 2024
9. Announcements and Awards
There was none.
10. Public Comments
Chair Penserga opened public comment.
Mark Karageorge noted the long history and high costs associated with the Cottage District
project, spanning five executive directors. He expressed hope that progress would be visible in
2025. He also commended Tim Tack for his work, highlighting his recent FRA certification and
dedication to managing both roles. He praised the CRA team but acknowledged external
challenges affecting leadership recruitment.
No virtual comment.
Chair Penserga closed public comment.
Board Member Hay asked if the fence around the Cottage District would be raised as work
progresses. Acting Executive Director Tack explained that the current silt fence is required by the
to prevent soil runoff. He noted that any additional screening would need to be discussed with
Pulte and agreed to coordinate with them to explore that possibility.
11. Consent Agenda
A. CRA Financial Report Period Ending December 31, 2024
B. Approval of a 90-day Extension to the Commercial Property Improvement Grant
Program with Jken Boutique LLC located in Ocean Palm Plaza at 1600 N. Federal
Highway, Unit 9
C. Approval of the Commercial Rent Reimbursement Grant Program in the Amount of
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Boynton Beach, FL January 14, 2025
$24,000 to EGVV LLC d/b/a Paloma Mexican Restaurant located in 500 Ocean at 510
E. Ocean Avenue, Unit 105
D. Approval of Extension of Contract between the CRA and Sadler Builders, Inc.
Motion:
Board Member Cruz moved to approve the Consent Agenda. Board Member Hay seconded
the motion. The motion passed unanimously.
12. Pulled Consent Agenda Items
There were none.
13. CRA Advisory Board
A. 2025 CRA Advisory Board Meeting Dates
Acting Executive Director Tack confirmed these dates were decided and voted on by the Board.
B. Pending Assignments - New Assignments from the CRA Board Assigned at the
February 13, 2024 CRA Monthly Board Meeting
C. Reports on Pending Assignments - New Assignments from the CRA Board Assigned
at the February 13, 2024 CRA Monthly Board Meeting - 2016 CRA Plan Revision
Recommendations
Acting Executive Director Tack stated that the CRA Advisory Board had diligently reviewed the
CRA plan, district by district. They will present their findings and provided input on what they
believed should be included in the next plan update.
Dr. Naomi Cobb, CRAB Chair, read the CRA mission and introduced the Board members.
Mr. Courtland McQuire, CRAB Vice Chair, presented the following: 2016 Community
Redevelopment Plan; 7 CRA Districts; District Recommendations/Considerations; Federal
Highway Corridor District; Downtown District; Cultural District; Boynton Beach Boulevard District;
Heart of Boynton District; and Industrial District.
Board Member Hay supported lighting improvements at Veterans Park, noting it had been a long-
standing concern. He favored adding red, white, and blue lights to enhance visibility and honor
the park.
Vice Chair Kelley thanked the CRA Advisory Board for their dedication and thoughtful
contributions. She emphasized the importance of their input in shaping the CRA plan and
enhancing downtown. She appreciated their creativity and commitment, recognizing their efforts
as valuable to the board and the community.
Board Member Cruz the board for their dedication and hard work in researching and
understanding the CRA districts. She appreciated their efforts in learning about the marina,
downtown, and federal corridor, acknowledging their commitment to serving the city and
contributing valuable recommendations for the CRA plan.
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Boynton Beach, FL January 14, 2025
Chair Penserga praised the presentation, noting ideas like decorative lighting, CPTED, and
micro-housing. He asked about mobility options. Mr. McQuire said discussions included bike and
scooter programs, electric vehicles, and designated Lyft/Uber spaces downtown.
Chair Penserga asked about potential locations for a splash pad. Dr. Cobb said the board
considered options to create more spaces for children beyond the library and Children's Museum.
Chair Penserga also supported renaming streets to honor community figures, emphasizing the
importance of recognizing those who shaped the city.
Board Member Hay suggested researching ways to honor the city's two Heisman Trophy winners,
emphasizing the need to market this unique achievement. He encouraged the group to explore
options with the city to recognize and celebrate this distinction.
Vice Chair Kelley suggested revisiting the CRA plan to incorporate historic preservation,
considering community input and recent discussions. She proposed evaluating whether changes
are needed within existing districts or if a new approach is required. Dr. Cobb emphasized the
importance of community engagement, noting that board members actively participate in local
events and discussions to promote city initiatives.
Acting Executive Director Tack clarified new assignments, confirming the CRAB board would
explore monument options for Heisman recipients, including potential locations and creative
ideas. He also acknowledged Vice Chair Kelley's request to consider incorporating historic
districts or preservation efforts within the CRA plan.
14. Old Business
A. Continued Discussion and Consideration of Circuit Transit Inc.'s Contract for On-
Demand Transportation Services
Acting Executive Director Tack stated that CRA staff met with city staff in December and
recommended maintaining the current structure. An amendment to the interlocal agreement will
be reviewed in February, with a proposed shift to a one-year term with renewal options. Input will
be sought on signing authority and whether the board should review the agreement annually.
B. Continued Discussion and Consideration of MLK Jr. Boulevard Corridor Mixed Use
Project Update (d/b/a Heart of Boynton Shops)
Acting Executive Director Tack provided an update on the MLK Corridor commercial
redevelopment, which includes 124 multifamily rental units and 8,250 square feet of leasable
commercial space. Staff continues working with Centennial Management to guide tenants
through the process, determining whether they will use Centennial's contractor or their own. A
form was created to clarify the allocation of the $50,000 developer contribution among seven
tenants. Staff is also addressing construction cost escalations, which may impact tenant
participation, and working on distributing the CRA's contribution. Weekly meetings with
Centennial will continue until the project is finalized.
Vice Chair Kelley stressed the need for regular updates to keep tenants informed, citing concerns
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Boynton Beach, FL January 14, 2025
about miscommunication with the developer. Acting Executive Director Tack suggested inviting
Centennial Management to the February meeting for an update, noting discussions on material
cost escalations and the developer's responsibility for delays. Vice Chair Kelley agreed to
consider additional contributions but maintained that the developer should cover cost increases.
She supported bringing Centennial in, emphasizing the need for accountability and timely
progress.
C. Continued Discussion and Consideration of Search for the New Executive Director -
TABLED 11/21/2024
Motion:
Vice Chair Kelley moved to removed Item 14C from the table. Board Member Hay
seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.
15. New Business
A. Discussion and Consideration of Executive Recruitment Firms for Executive Director
Candidates - TABLED 11/21/2024
Vice Chair Kelley moved to removed Item 15A from the table. Board Member Hay
seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.
Items 14C and 15A were heard together.
Acting Executive Director Tack stated that staff had outlined the process for moving forward and
provided a list of interested candidates for the board's review. He requested discussion on which
candidates the board would like to interview.
Chair Penserga expressed readiness to proceed with hiring an executive search firm, highlighting
two firms with strong track records in recruiting for city managers, redevelopment experts, and
public works directors. He welcomed input from colleagues on the selection. There was
consensus to go directly to an Executive Recruitment Firm.
Acting Executive Director Tack noted that the bottom two firms, along with Prime Head Hunting,
offer fixed pricing and guarantees to redo the search at no charge if the placement is
unsuccessful.
Board Member Cruz supported the recommendation for the S. Renee Narloch & Associates firm,
emphasizing its focus on local CRAs and the importance of distinguishing between economic
development and CRA-specific expertise.
Motion:
Board Member Cruz moved to select S. Renee Narloch & Associates firm. Board Member Hay
seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.
There was consensus to authorize the Acting Executive Director Tack and staff to move forward
with next steps.
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Boynton Beach, FL January 14, 2025
B. Discussion and Consideration of the Andrews House Located at 306 SE 1st Avenue
Item 158 was previously discussed during the special joint meeting.
C. Discussion and Consideration of Tax Increment Funding Request from Time Equities
for the Town Square Project located at 100 E. Ocean Avenue
Mr. Bradley Miller, Urban Design Studios, on behalf of Time Equities, presented the following:
Time Equities, Inc., Bloomberg Article; Town Square Background'; Revised Master Plan;
Overview and Development Costs; Aerials; and Renderings.
Ms. Bonnie Miskel and Mr. Robert Singer continued the presentation and reviewed the
following: TIF Aware Is Key to Unlocking Town Square; Newspaper Articles; Town Square
"Fiscal Gap" — Two Phases; Fiscal Gap/TIF Request; Construction Start Dates;
Memorandum; Revenues through 2026; Bond Payments through 2024; Two-Phase TIE;
Public Benefits Per Site Plans/Development Agreement; Exhibit F — Public Benefits and
Economic Impact; and Direct and Indirect Economic Impact from Project (2063).
Chair Penserga asked if providing the TIF would allow the project to start sooner and
generate revenue earlier. Mr. Singer explained that projections depend on assumptions
about when construction would begin without the TIF. but starting sooner would significantly
increase revenue. While speculative, the project has a clear fiscal gap, and the TIF would
rebate funds that wouldn't exist without development. He emphasized the project's scale, its
alignment with the CRA's mission, and the economic benefits it would bring. The TIF would
ensure timely delivery, and once it expires, the city would receive substantial long-term
revenue and economic growth.
Vice Chair Kelley asked why the TIF request was needed now rather than after Phase One
breaks ground. Mr. Singer said securing commitments now provides certainty for the city and
financial partners, ensuring Phase Two follows smoothly. Investors prefer large, predictable
projects, and locking in dates prevents long-term vacancies. While adjustments could be
discussed, he stressed that early commitments would keep the project on track.
Vice Chair Kelley asked for the proposed timeline. Mr. Singer stated that, ideally, construction
could start by the end of the year, with a buffer allowing for July 2026. Phase Two was
projected for completion by 2032, allowing time for leasing, stabilization, and refinancing. He
emphasized that TIF funds are a rebate tied to project completion, not an upfront cost to the
city, and urged using the tool while available. He acknowledged concerns about the funding
request and welcomed further discussions with the board.
Mr. Barry Abramson, Abramson & Associates, joined virtually, and supported the developer's
request, noting that the current market conditions justify financial assistance. He
acknowledged the developer's significant investment in the site and the public benefits,
including parking and workforce housing. While he agreed that Phase One warrants TIF
support. he questioned the need to commit funds for Phase Two now, given its uncertain
timeline. He suggested waiting until the market conditions for Phase Two are clearer in four
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Boynton Beach, FL January 14, 2025
to six years. He emphasized that these are separately financed projects, and that the city
could retain $15 million if the market improves. He recommended structuring the TIF
agreement to allow for potential adjustments based on actual needs.
Vice Chair Kelley asked about typical TIF agreement start dates. Board Counsel Rossmell
explained they vary by project, often tied to site plan approvals. While a 9.5-year buildout
has been approved before, a 2032 start for Phase Two would be unusual, though the CRA
has flexibility to set conditions.
Vice Chair Kelley asked about including a clause for reevaluating the Phase Two TIF
agreement. Board Counsel Rossmell confirmed the CRA has broad flexibility if the developer
agrees. Mr. Singer expressed willingness to include a check-back provision but preferred it
not to require a full reassessment. Ms. Miskel suggested a review before submitting building
permits, with an updated study to verify that previous financial assumptions remain
reasonable.
D. Discussion and Consideration of the Interlocal Agreement between the City of
Boynton Beach and the Boynton Beach CRA for Providing Reimbursement for the
Construction Costs of the Neighborhood Officer Policing Program Location located
within the Boynton Beach Community Redevelopment Area
E. Discussion and Consideration of the Authorization of Acting Executive Director to Sign
the Construction Contract for Unit 8 at The Heart of Boynton Shops for the
Neighborhood Officer Policing (NOP) Program
Items 15D and 15E were heard together.
Acting Executive Director Tack explained that Unit 8 was designated for the Neighborhood
Officer Program (NOP) under an interlocal agreement (ILA), allowing the CRA to reimburse
Centennial Management up to $100,000 for buildout costs. The updated cost is $155,875,
exceeding the initial allocation. The CRA seeks approval to amend the ILA to cover the full
amount, with the city contributing $31,977.36. The draft ILA and construction contract are
submitted for approval, including authorization for the Acting Executive Director to sign
pending legal review.
Motion:
Vice Chair Kelley moved to approve the Interlocal Agreement between the City of Boynton
Beach and the Boynton Beach CRA for Providing Reimbursement for the Construction Costs
of the Neighborhood Officer Policing Program Location located within the Boynton Beach
Community Redevelopment Area and Authorize Board Chair to execute pending final legal
review. Board Member Cruz seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.
Chair Penserga opened public comment. No one came forth to speak and no virtual
comment. Chair Penserga closed public comment.
Motion:
Vice Chair Kelley moved to approve the Authorization of Acting Executive Director to Sign
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Boynton Beach, FL January 14, 2025
the Construction Contract for Unit 8 at The Heart of Boynton Shops for the Neighborhood
Officer Policing (NOP) Program pending final legal review. Board Member Cruz seconded
the motion. The motion passed unanimously.
Chair Penserga opened public comment. No one came forth to speak and no virtual
comment. Chair Penserga closed public comment.
16. CRA Projects in Progress
A. 2024 Holiday Boat Parade Recap
Ms. Gabby Ferreira, Marking and Business Promotions Coordinator, reported on the 52nd
annual Boynton Beach Holiday Boat Parade, held on December 13 in partnership with
Hypoluxo, Manalapan, and Delray Beach. The parade began at 6:30 PM from the Ocean
Avenue Bridge and featured 42 registered participants. A watch party at the marina included
live music, children's activities, a vendor market, and a visit from Santa. Local businesses
were showcased, and waterfront restaurants participated. The parade winners were
announced on January 9, concluding a successful event. Ms. Ferreira displayed images of
the winners.
B. Social Media & Print Marketing Update
C. CRA Economic & Business Development Grant Program Update
17. Future Agenda Items
A. Discussion and Consideration of the Second Amendment to the Purchase and
Development Agreement between the CRA and BB QOZ, LLC for the 115 N. Federal
Highway Mixed Use Project (aka The Pierce)
B. Discussion and Consideration of a First Amendment to the Interlocal Agreement (ILA)
between the CRA and the City of Boynton Beach regarding Contract with Circuit
Transit Inc. for the BBCRA Pilot Ride Share Program
C. Discussion and Consideration of Approval of Circuit Transit Inc.'s Contract for On-
Demand Transportation Services
18. Adjournment
There being no further business to discuss, the meeting was adjourned at 9:56 P.M.
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Tammy Sta ione, C C
Deputy City Clerk