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Minutes 04-01-25 Minutes of the City Commission Meeting Held Online Via the GoToWebinar Platform and In-Person at the City Hall Commission Chambers 100 East Ocean Avenue, Boynton Beach, Florida On Tuesday, April 1, 2025, at 6:00 P.M. Present: Mayor Rebecca Shelton Daniel Dugger, City Manager Vice Mayor Woodrow L. Hay Shawna Lamb, City Attorney Commissioner Angela Cruz [virtual] Maylee De Jesus, City Clerk Commissioner Thomas Turkin Commissioner Aimee Kelley 1. Agenda Items A. Call to Order Mayor Shelton called the meeting to order at 6:00 P.M. Roll Call City Clerk Maylee De Jesus called the roll. Invocation by Vice Mayor Woodrow Hay Invocation was given by Vice Mayor Hay. Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag led by Commissioner Thomas Turkin The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Commissioner Turkin Agenda Approval: 1. Additions, Deletions, Corrections Commissioner Turkin spoke about the joint meeting with the CRA. He requested an update on the Town Square investigation and the City's compliance with 287G, to ensure that the City does not lose Federal Grants. He stated that the early bird deadline for the NLC Conference is in May and recommended that the item be discussed today. He thanked staff for meeting with the "Save the Andrews House" group earlier today. Commissioner Kelley stated her support for Commissioner Turkin's comments and asked if consensus was needed to add the requested items to a future agenda. City Attorney Lamb stated that the request for the joint meeting is already on the agenda. She explained that the Town Square report has been delayed due to ongoing litigation. City Commission Meeting Boynton Beach, FL April 1, 2025 Commissioner Kelley requested that item #5F be moved up on the agenda, to be heard before public comment, as item #3E, so that Dr. Fuller would not have to sit through the full public comment period. There was consensus from the Commission to move up the item. Vice Mayor Hay stated that most of the items had already been addressed. He thanked staff for attending the previous night's community meeting. He noted that there is significant public interest in legislative matters and suggested that the City address those concerns. Commissioner Cruz joined online. City Attorney Lamb stated that Commissioner Cruz could participate in discussion, but not vote virtually. 2. Adoption Motion: Vice Mayor Hay moved to approve the agenda, as amended. Commissioner Turkin seconded the motion. The motion passed 4-0 (Commissioner Cruz cannot vote). 2. Other A. Informational items by the Members of the City Commission. Vice Mayor Hay stated that the activity that the CRA did was outstanding. 3. Announcements, Community and Special Events and Presentations A. Update on dredging project at Harvey E. Oyer Park. Andy Studt from PBC Environmental Resources Management office will provide an update on the dredging project at Harvey Oyer Jr. Park. Fabien Desrouleaux introduced Andy Studt from Palm Beach County Environmental Resources Management. Mr. Studt presented the following: South Lake Worth Inlet and Project Overview. Commissioner Turkin asked how future delays can be avoided. 2 City Commission Meeting Boynton Beach, FL April 1, 2025 --! Mr. Studt said that new permits allow for more frequent dredging, though the last permit process took over three years, due to long-term planning. Commissioner Turkin referenced the Firefighter Fishing Tournament on April 26 and asked about potential impacts. Mr. Studt said that the project cannot pause once it starts, but will work with staff. Commissioner Turkin asked staff to coordinate with IAFF. Commissioner Kelley stressed the importance of the project, but noted that the calendar conflict could have been better communicated. She asked staff to stay on top of updates, to avoid issues with the tournament, which has no alternate location. Vice Mayor Hay asked about the dredging depth and width. Mr. Studt confirmed it only involves underwater work and would not affect nearby vegetation or structures. Commissioner Hay asked where the sand will be going. Mr. Studt said that it will be placed north of Ocean Hammock Park and may assist with beach renourishment B. Announcement- Pre-hurricane prep and Vegetation Amnesty Week. Mayor Shelton announced Pre-hurricane prep and Vegetation Amnesty Week C. Announcement- Art and Autism Expo. Mayor Shelton announced the Art and Autism Expo. D. Presentation- 2024 Year-End Crime Report by the Boynton Beach Police Department. Chief DeGiulio reviewed the following: Violent Crime; Calls for Service; Violent Crime — 5 Years; Non-Violent Crime; and Arrests, Traffic, and Drugs. Commissioner Turkin thanked the Chief and staff for their work. He referenced improvements in a specific area with past grand theft and stolen vehicles, and noted that the nuisance abatement plan is showing results. He stated that the department, being fully staffed, reflects strong effort from both the dais and staff. 3 City Commission Meeting Boynton Beach, FL April 1, 2025 Mayor Shelton asked about sexual assault response and if the City partners with ABDA. Chief DeGiulio confirmed that they do. Vice Mayor Hay asked about changes in community engagement. Chief DeGiulio described programs like community BBQs and "Shop with a Cop" as essential to building trust. He also highlighted events like "Coffee with a Cop" and online reporting tools that increase accessibility and involvement. Commissioner Kelley emphasized the importance of clearance rates and asked what new initiatives are planned. Chief DeGiulio said that increased visibility remains key and reiterated the value of outreach. Commissioner Kelley also asked how residents can assist. Chief DeGiulio explained the camera registry program linked to the Real Time Crime Center. Commissioner Cruz thanked the Chief and the Police Department. 5F. Community Support Funds. Motion: Commissioner Turkin moved to approve Community Support Funds to Operation Connor Share, from Commissioner Kelley, in the amount of $500. Vice Mayor Hay seconded the motion. The motion passed 4-0 (Commissioner Cruz cannot vote). Motion: Commissioner Kelley moved to approve Community Support Funds to Boynton Beach Community High School, from Commissioner Kelley, in the amount of $2,000. Commissioner Turkin seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously. Commissioner Kelley invited Dr. Fuller to speak but first shared background on the items, highlighting Operation Connor Share and the BBCHS fund supporting the Aerospace program. She noted that two teams will compete this summer. Dr. Fuller, Principal of BBCHS, thanked the City for its continued support and referenced the $100K donation received last year. He outlined the benefits of that funding, described 4 City Commission Meeting Boynton Beach, FL April 1, 2025 recent school and community events, and detailed the upcoming Aerospace Program competitions. 4. Public Audience Mack McCray thanked Deputy City Manager Mack for his assistance at the previous night's meeting. He asked the City to keep Funeral Directors involved in the cemetery expansion, and he mentioned homeless individuals sleeping in Sara Sims Park. He also requested that kiosks advertise upcoming district meetings. Charles Hunt addressed ongoing Code Enforcement issues in Rolling Green. He questioned regulations regarding items in carports and also apologized for past comments about the City Manager. Susan Oyer clarified past statistics. She mentioned that she supports moving the Andrews House and requested creation of a code revision board, beautification board, and a P&D Board. She also submitted a printed email to the City Commission. Charles Glocken opposed proposed apartments on the west side of Federal Highway and expressed concern about the state removing local property rights. He urged the City Commission to speak out against the legislation. Dave Paterson, president of Las Mangoes, opposed the Dune project and cited concerns with the Live Local Act. He asked the City to push back against the law, and called for an innovative citywide plan. Kim Roger, Chair of Las Mangoes, spoke against the Live Local project. She reviewed permit issues and asked for the City's support. Barbara Ready requested replacement of historic signs and asked for improvements at Dewey Park. She requested a new sign at the schoolhouse. She noted a non-working QR code at the Magnuson House. She also mentioned her support move the Andrews House and opposed the Live Local Act. Mike Fitzpatrick described a productive meeting about relocating the Andrews House and asked the CRA to take the lead. He requested formal direction from the CRA Board. David Katz supported the City Manager and praised the City Manager's character and leadership. Cindy Falco De Corrado commented on gender identity, the intersection flag, the "666" benches, Police Chief allegations, marijuana odors, freedom of speech, downtown building height, and red-light cameras. 5 City Commission Meeting Boynton Beach, FL April 1, 2025 There were no online comments. Commissioner Turkin asked the City Attorney to address the Live Local Act. City Attorney Lamb explained the limits of Home Rule under state law and outlined the Act's precedence over local comp plans. Commissioner Turkin suggested revisiting the City's Comprehensive Plan to address future impacts. Deputy City Manager Mack confirmed that the Development Department is preparing a contract for a new comprehensive plan. Commissioner Cruz asked about the infrastructure state requirement tied to the Live Local Act guidelines. Amanda Radigan, Director of Planning and Development, clarified state regulations versus local Comprehensive Plan alignment and outlined infrastructure review requirements. Commissioner Turkin asked what dictates meeting the infrastructure requirements. Ms. Radigan explained the various departmental reviews involved in the process. Commissioner Turkin asked if these requirements apply to all projects. Deputy City Manager Mack confirmed that they do, except for single-family homes. Commissioner Turkin noted that the full impact of drainage systems is not known until construction is complete. Deputy City Manager Mack stated that drainage is designed by licensed contractors and can be subject to complaints if issues arise. Commissioner Turkin said his goal was to provide clarity for residents. 5. Administrative A. Proposed Resolution No. R25-081- Appoint a City Commission representative and alternate to the Countywide Intergovernmental Coordination Program. 6 City Commission Meeting Boynton Beach, FL April 1, 2025 Motion: Commissioner Turkin moved to approve Resolution No. R25-081 , with Commissioner Kelley as the Regular Member, and Mayor Shelton as the Alternate Member. Commissioner Kelley seconded the motion. The motion passed 4-0 (Commissioner Cruz cannot vote). B. Proposed Resolution No. R25-082- Appoint a City Commission representative and alternate to the Coalition of Boynton West Residents Association (COBWRA). Motion: Commissioner Turkin moved to approve Resolution No. R25-082, with Vice Mayor Hay as the Regular Member, and Mayor Shelton as the Alternate Member. Vice Mayor Hay seconded the motion. The motion passed 4-0 (Commissioner Cruz cannot vote). C. Proposed Resolution No. R25-083- Appoint a City Commission representative and alternate to the Palm Beach County League of Cities. Motion: Commissioner Turkin moved to approve Resolution No. R25-083, with Vice Mayor Hay as the Regular Member, and Commissioner Turkin as the Alternate Member. Commissioner Kelley seconded the motion. The motion passed 4-0 (Commissioner Cruz cannot vote). D. Proposed Resolution No. R25-084- Appoint a City Commission representative and alternate to the Transportation Planning Agency (Formerly known as the MPO, Metropolitan Planning Organization). Motion: Commissioner Turkin moved to approve Resolution No. R25-084, with Commissioner Kelley as the Regular Member, Commissioner Turkin as Alternate Member No. 1, and Commissioner Cruz, as Alternate Member No. 2. Vice Mayor Hay seconded the motion. The motion passed 4-0 (Commissioner Cruz cannot vote). Vice Mayor Hay commented that for the TPA, any interested members are able to attend. Mayor Shelton asked about communication protocols to ensure alternates are notified and able to participate when needed. E. Advisory Board Appointments. 7 City Commission Meeting Boynton Beach, FL April 1, 2025 Motion: Vice Mayor Hay moved to table the item for the Arts Advisory Board until the next meeting. Commissioner Turkin seconded the motion. The motion passed 4-0 (Commissioner Cruz cannot vote). Motion: Commissioner Turkin moved to table the item for the CRA Advisory Board until the next meeting. Commissioner Kelley seconded the motion. The motion passed 4-0 (Commissioner Cruz cannot vote). F. Community Support Funds. Item 5F was heard immediately following Item 3D. 6. Consent Agenda A. Proposed Resolution No. R25-085- Approve a Piggyback Agreement between the City and Blue Iguana Pest Control, Inc. d/b/a Iguana Control for reptile control services in an amount not to exceed $80,080. B. Proposed Resolution No. R25-086- Approving a Collocation Agreement between the City and Dish Wireless, LLC, and a Memorandum of Agreement between the City and Dish Wireless, LLC to allow for ground equipment and co-location on the existing telecommunications tower at 1901 N. Seacrest Blvd. with a lease area of 35 square feet. C. Proposed Resolution No. R25-087- Approving and authorizing the Mayor to sign a Use of Property Agreement between the City of Boynton Beach and First Baptist Church of Boynton Beach for the 2025 Taste of Boynton Beach event on Saturday, April 26, 2025. D. Proposed Resolution No. R25-088- Approving and authorizing the Mayor to sign a Use of Property Agreement between the City of Boynton Beach and 315 South Federal LLC for the 2025 Taste of Boynton Beach event on Saturday, April 26, 2025. E. Proposed Resolution No. R25-089- Authorizing the City to apply for the Firehouse Subs Public Safety Grant for the amount up to $48,500, and if awarded, authorize the City to accept the Grant, and authorize the Mayor to execute all documents associated with the grant, subject to the approval of the City Attorney. 8 City Commission Meeting Boynton Beach, FL April 1, 2025 F. Proposed Resolution No. R25-090- Approving a First Addendum to the Security Agreement with the School Board of Palm Beach County renewing the Agreement through July 31, 2026. G. Commission Meeting Minutes. Motion: Vice Mayor Hay moved to approve the consent agenda. Commissioner Turkin seconded the motion. The motion passed 4-0 (Commissioner Cruz cannot vote). 7. Consent Bids and Purchases over $100,000 A. Proposed Resolution No. R25-091- Approve an Order Form with FLOCK Group, Inc. to purchase and maintain a Drone First Responder Program in an amount not to exceed $350,000 for the initial term utilizing the Sole Source procurement exemption. B. Proposed Resolution No. R25-092- Approving an annual service agreement with Motorola, Inc. for the continued maintenance and repair of the city's P25 radio telecommunications systems as a sole source vendor with an expenditure not to exceed $165,000 annually for the next four years. C. Proposed Resolution No. R25-093- Approve the Piggyback Agreement between the City and Honeywell International, Inc., utilizing pricing from National Purchasing Partners ("NPPGov") through LEAGUE OF OREGON CITIES contract for the purchase of a Fire Station Alerting system for the budgeted amount of up to $800,000. Motion: Commissioner Turkin moved to approve the Consent Bids and Purchases over$100,000. Vice Mayor Hay seconded the motion. The motion passed 4-0 (Commissioner Cruz cannot vote). 8. Public Hearing - None 9. City Manager's Report- None 10. Regular Agenda A. Proposed Resolution No. R25-094- Approve naming the entry road to Boynton 9 City Commission Meeting Boynton Beach, FL April 1, 2025 Beach High School as "Lamar Jackson Way" in honor of Boynton Beach High School Alumnus Lamar Jackson for his outstanding athletic achievements and contributions to the community. Mayor Shelton read the title into the record. Mr. Desrouleaux presented the Lamar Jackson street renaming proposal and shared examples of the proposed signage. He spoke about the overwhelming support from the community and Boynton Beach Community High School, highlighting Mr. Jackson's connection to the neighborhood and his impact as a positive role model. City Manager Dugger stated that this initiative is part of the City's Hometown Heroes project, which celebrates residents who have made significant contributions or brought national recognition to Boynton Beach. He emphasized that Lamar Jackson continues to return to the community to support youth programs and events. Vice Mayor Hay described Mr. Jackson as a valuable role model, who is active and present for local children. He noted that Lamar's story inspires youth and reinforces the importance of hard work and community pride. City Manager Dugger also commended staff for supporting youth engagement and representing the City at a recent South Florida Girls Flag Football Tournament, showing the City's continued investment in athletics and youth development. Commissioner Kelley shared her experience attending an event last summer with Mr. Jackson, noting how approachable and humble he was, despite his fame. She emphasized how much Mr. Jackson clearly cares for the community, engaging with local kids, taking photos, and spending time without hesitation. The City Commission expressed full support for the street renaming in Lamar Jackson's honor, recognizing his accomplishments and dedication to giving back to Boynton Beach. Motion: Vice Mayor Hay moved to approve the Resolution No. R25-094. Commissioner Kelley seconded the motion. The motion passed 4-0 (Commissioner Cruz cannot vote). B. Discussion on Animal Control position in Police Department. Motion: Commissioner Kelley moved table this item until the next meeting. Vice Mayor Hay seconded the motion. The motion passed 4-0 (Commissioner Cruz cannot vote). 10 City Commission Meeting Boynton Beach, FL April 1, 2025 C. Discussion regarding taking a Legislative Summer Break. Commissioner Kelley stated that the Commission held this discussion last year and it was helpful for staff. She asked for the scheduled budget dates in July and noted her preference to avoid scheduling conflicts. City Manager Dugger responded that the budget meetings are set for July 7, 9, and 10, and suggested the Commission consider June for any additional planning. Mayor Shelton indicated she would be unavailable at the end of June and beginning of July. City Attorney Lamb recommended one of the scheduled June meetings or possibly June 17th and July 1st There was consensus to cancel the June 17th and July 1st meetings. D. Discussion on residency requirements to hold elected office. Commissioner Turkin reiterated his interest in revisiting residency requirements for elected officials. City Attorney Lamb outlined the existing charter language and described how other municipalities verify residency. She recommended codifying petition requirements and noted that any change to the length of residency would require a charter referendum. Commissioner Turkin confirmed that the number of years would have to go before the voters and asked whether petition thresholds were part of the charter or adopted by resolution. City Attorney Lamb responded that the requirements could be included in a charter referendum. Commissioner Turkin expressed support for adding this to the next election and asked that it return as an ordinance. He mentioned his concern about "fly-by-night" candidates and asked for consensus on the number of petitions. Mayor Shelton asked about the current verification process. City Attorney Lamb explained the Clerk's limited role in verifying residency. 11 City Commission Meeting Boynton Beach, FL April 1, 2025 Commissioner Cruz asked questions about payment and petition rules, including whether campaign-related violations must be paid personally. Vice Mayor Hay stated that candidates should reside in the City for the duration of their term and noted that they should not be disqualified for living in apartments. He proposed 50 petitions. City Attorney Lamb asked if the City Commission wanted a higher number for the Mayoral race. Mayor Shelton supported requiring at least 100 petitions for Mayoral candidates and agreed with extending the residency requirement beyond one year. Commissioner Turkin proposed 50 petitions for Commission candidates and 100 for Mayoral candidates, and to leave the two-year residency decision to voters. Commissioner Cruz supported increased petition requirements, but opposed qualifications based on a candidate's ability to pay. City Manager Dugger commented on runoffs being used strategically. Mayor Shelton stated that the current process allows late entries and emphasized the need for tighter procedures. Commissioner Turkin suggested eliminating certain loopholes in the system. City Attorney Lamb offered to review practices from other jurisdictions and bring back options for a future referendum. Commissioner Turkin proposed aligning the referendum with the 2025 election and suggested forming a Charter Review Committee. Commissioner Cruz raised concerns about low voter turnout during non-presidential elections and noted that seniors may not be as tech-savvy. Mayor Shelton said the City could work to improve public outreach and education on the topic. She asked for consensus to open public comments. There was consensus to allow public comments. David Katz stated that he supported immediate action and recommended a two-year residency requirement. He expressed concern about lingering campaign signs. 12 City Commission Meeting Boynton Beach, FL April 1, 2025 Susan Oyer advocated for stricter qualifications, including a five-year residency, active voter status, higher filing fees, and more petition signatures. Jim Cizick opposed reducing the filing fee. He supported a two-year residency requirement, increased petition thresholds, and better documentation of residency. E. Discussion on waiver process to allow continued service on advisory boards Commissioner Turkin stated that the waiver option for advisory board term limits had been discussed with the City Attorney. He spoke in favor of allowing residents to remain on advisory boards under specific conditions. Commissioner Kelley stated that she supports the waiver with parameters, questioning the purpose of term limits, if waivers are allowed. She said that she would be comfortable with a waiver process if the request comes before the Commission. She suggested reducing the required one-year sit-out period and limiting the waiver to City residents. Commissioner Turkin agreed that the waiver should only apply to City residents. Vice Mayor Hay expressed concern about vacancies on advisory boards, noting that there isn't a long line of residents looking to serve. He said that he supported allowing individuals to serve past their term limits when necessary. Commissioner Kelley added that many residents are unaware of advisory board opportunities and that some boards lack engagement, leading to dropped participation. Commissioner Turkin noted that recognition for advisory board members occurred last year but not this year, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging their service. Mayor Shelton asked whether boards meet during the day or evening. Commissioner Kelley responded that not all boards meet during the day. Vice Mayor Hay supported bringing back the recognition dinner and said that it could help motivate more participation. Commissioner Turkin suggested finding ways to incentivize board members. City Manager Dugger noted that there are currently 51 scheduled events, and that staff is managing a significant workload. He recommended combining recognition with an existing event, to ease the burden. Commissioner Kelley proposed recognizing board members during a pre-First Friday 13 City Commission Meeting Boynton Beach, FL April 1, 2025 event. City Attorney Lamb asked for consensus on including a waiver provision for board service. There was consensus from the Commission. F. Request for a joint meeting with the Community Redevelopment Agency. Commissioner Turkin stated that this was brought up during Thursday's discussion and suggested holding a joint meeting regarding the legislation. City Attorney Lamb noted that the agenda was already published, but confirmed that the item can be added. There was consensus to include it at the next CRA meeting. ADDED DISCUSSION BY COMMISSIONER TURKIN: Commissioner Turkin said that he would like consensus on which Commissioners plan to attend upcoming conferences, adding that these events are very eye-opening. Commissioner Kelley stated that she plans to attend the FLC, NLC, and FRA conferences. Commissioners agreed to check their schedules and get back to staff on who will be attending the different conferences. 11. Future Agenda Items A. Discuss and provide an update on Fire Station #3, to also include a State of the Fire Department.- April 15, 2025. Requested by Commissioner Kelley. B. First Reading of an ordinance to amend the City's Land Development Regulation regarding standards for Artificial Turf.- April 15, 2025. Requested by Commissioner Turkin. C. First Reading of an ordinance to amend the City's Land Development Regulation regarding expanding the uses of Public Art Fees.- April 15, 2025. Requested by Commissioner Turkin. D. First Reading of an ordinance regarding construction hours near residential locations and decibel levels .- April 15, 2025. Requested by Commissioner Cruz. 14 City Commission Meeting Boynton Beach, FL April 1, 2025 E. Discussion regarding fluoride in the water. — TBD. Requested by Vice Mayor Hay. F. Discussion regarding the City's Comprehensive Plan.- TBD. Requested by Commissioner Cruz. G. Discussion regarding Citywide Master Plan to light up the City.- TBD. Requested by Commissioner Turkin. H. Discussion on utility lift station upgrades and odor control — TBD. Requested by Vice Mayor Hay. I. Discussion in regards to an additional area that might be available as a future cemetery.- TBD. Requested by Vice Mayor Hay. J. Discussion regarding requirements for Advisory Board Appointments.- Pending meeting with Commissioner Kelley. Requested by Commissioner Kelley. K. Discussion regarding Hazard Pay for Community Standards.- Pending meeting with Commissioner Cruz. Requested by Commissioner Cruz. L. Discussion regarding Amendments to the Code of Ordinances regarding flooding in the community.- Pending meeting with Commissioner Cruz. Requested by Commissioner Cruz. M. Discussion regarding combining City properties together to create senior affordable housing.- TBD. Requested by Vice Mayor Hay. N. Discussion on creating a charter review committee. — TBD. Requested by Commissioner Turkin. 0. Discussion on creating a code enforcement review board. — TBD. Requested by Commissioner Turkin. P. Discussion regarding creating a beautification board. — TBD. Requested by Commissioner Turkin. 14. Adjournment Motion: Vice Mayor Hay moved to adjourn the meeting. Commissioner Turkin seconded the 15 City Commission Meeting Boynton Beach, FL April 1, 2025 motion. The motion passed 4-0 (Commissioner Cruz cannot vote). There being no further business to discuss, the meeting is adjourned at 8:58 P.M. CITY *F BOYNTON BEACH ATTEST: I BOYNp Maylee I*sus, MP' MMC ;'�'�.••'coRPoR••�2`� City CIe i L J i A v .i l���RpORgT ;i i 1'920 D• s !•••• •••. 1‘" 0RID••A 16 • V Gmail Susan Oyer<susanoyer@gmail.com> Trees 1 message Susan Oyer<susanoyer@gmail.com> Thu, Mar 13, 2025 at 10:40 PM To: Rebecca Shelton--campaign <rebeccaeshelton@gmail.com>, Comm Thomas Turkin <turkint@bbfl.us>, Comm Angela Cruz<cruza@bbfl.us>, Comm Aimee Kelley<kelleya@bbfl.us>, Comm Woodrow Hay<hayw@bbfl.us>, Dan Dugger--city manager<duggerd@bbfl.us> Cc: Mack McCray<mmccray48@yahoo.com>, Thomas Ramiccio <tramiccio@aol.com>, Susan Oyer <susanoyer@gmail.com> Dear all: With a new mayor,it is worth looking at our current tree situation and start a discussion of what needs to come next. I'm including the presumptive candidates for next year's D2 and D4 races in case these changes don't happen quick enough. My thoughts,in no particular order,but all in desperate need of addressing-sooner than later. i--Our city committed to planting 3,000 trees per year for 15 years to do our share to mitigate global warming and bring our tree canopy up to a minimally acceptable percentage. They haven't been getting planted. Period. Time to rectify it. 2--Time to look at Sustainability. The director should have been running numerous tree giveaways the last couple years. And sponsoring tree planting events throughout the community. And holding events/working at city events to distribute trees and information to keep our tree planting numbers up. And running Earth Day events. Is this happening? Where is our resident Sustainability Board(the SAT-Sustainability Advisory Team)that used to be very active? We used to have one of the top,if not the top,Sustainability Boards in the state of Florida. We need to get this turned around. Period. 3--What is the status on the trees near lines? When I asked Code,I was told that the commission never made a final decision. Why? 10 feet makes sense. And your delayed start date for enforcement in late May really should be moved up to May 1 at the latest. Finalize this and get advertising it. People need to know so they aren't planting them during this Spring planting season. 4--Attached is the Tree Canopy Report. Note pages 9 and io. Palms are NOT trees. They are grass. They provide VERY little shade. They do a horrendous job of converting CO2 to 02. They are VERY expensive to maintain. Note also the monetary value a regular canopy tree brings to individual properties and our city's tax base. The company that did the assessment: https://gicinc.org/books/boynton-beach-tree-canopy/ We need to be planting trees. A variety of trees in case of widespread disease in one species. To easily help with our Beautification issue we should consider flowering trees for tree giveaways. And city plantings. Note that West Palm Beach was at 25%in 2017-they are over 3o%now. 3o%is what appears to be the preferred minimum--see google info on WPB and in general below: Land cover results indicated that in 2017,the urban areas of West Palm Beach including water bodies contained 25%tree canopy(5,404 acres), 27%non-canopy vegetation(5,916 acres).1%soil or dry vegetation(179 acres),31%impervious(6,711 acres),and 16%water(3,448 acres). Lai PIan1T Geo Mips vrplamtgeo corn r Document t.diary Urban Tree Canopy Assessment:West Palm Beach, FL, USA Alc l'aa,11r.d cvrn°.c . p FSP?na-M People also ask What is a good tree canopy percentage? What is the percentage of canopy cover? V How do you calculate tree canopy percentage? What percent of tree canopy does he say every city should have as a goal? 'Studies say we actually need at least 40%canopy cover to substantially lower daytime air temperatures,so the'30'metric is the absolute bare minimum--and most buildings we studied don't even reach that goal" Nov 19.2024 5--We need to look at right tree,right place like FPL says. As noted in#4,palms are not trees. It is time to join Miami Beach and West Palm Beach in drastically reducing their numbers. https://www.cnn.com/2021/10/23/weather/weather- trees-adapt-climate-change/index.html and read https://www.greenmatters.com/p/palm-trees-florida and the move is international https://www.itfnet.org/v1/2021/02/saudi-arabia-ban-on-planting-palm-trees-on-roads-and-parks-to-curb- spread-of-red-palm-weevil/ and diseases kill them off easily https://tristatetree.com/palm-tree-disease-florida/ It makes sense to keep some,for example at the entrances to communities or by entrance signs. Wrapped with holiday or white lights, Royals Palms are elegant. But the City needs to get rid of their palms on their properties. And the City should consider banning the future plantings of palms in the City by residents and businesses. Or charge a permit to keep them- kind of an impact fee for the climate change impact they are causing. An ordinance that palms can't be replaced when they die either. Miami,West Palm, Los Angeles,San Diego-all are drastically cutting back on palms. While tackling palm trees,we should be dealing with another nuisance tree,the Norfolk Island Pine. Another non-native tree that provides very little shade. And like palms,pieces fly around in our frequent storms doing damage. And they fall over damaging houses. They are randomly around town-they provide few benefits and are dangerous during storms. Let's ban them from being planted outside and advise local retailers to stop selling them as"Christmas trees you can plant outside after the holidays". Let's be pro-active on reducing/eliminating trees that are dangerous during storms. See info below: 200 feet tall While sold here in the states as tabletop Christmas trees,in their native _..1 habitat these plants can incredibly reach 200 feet tall and have trunks that swell to 10 feet in diameter!In Florida these trees typically grow to only 60 to 80 feet. OF/IFAS Gardening Solutions httos7/gurdenir sol aion,ifas uh ed.•plans trees Norfolk Island Pine-UF/IFAS Gardening Solutions Do Norfolk Island pines like sun or shade? Where should I place a Norfolk pine in my house? What is the lifespan of a Norfolk pine? Al Overview Norfolk Island pines.when properly cared for and protected from frost. can live for over a century.with some living as long as 150 years. though they are often seen as houseplants and live for several decades indoors. a Al Overvia w While not a widespread ban,some coastal cone etidse and perks may remove,kill,or prohibit the planting of Norfolk Island pines(Araucaria heterophylla)due to their ran-native status,potential storm-related hazards,and the results of past freezes. • Here's a more detailed explanation: Non-native Species: Norfolk Island pines are not native to many areas where they are planted leading to concerns about their potential impact on local ecosystems • Storm Damage: These trees while beautiful are known to have large surras a roots and an be prone to uprooting in storms particularly hurricanes • Inswing Temperatures: Norio+Island pines are tropical plants and cannot tolerate temperatures below 35 degrees Fahrenheit making them vulnerable to damage or death in colder climates • Specific Examples: • Some coastal communities and parks may remove kill or ban the planting of NIP due to their being non native the potential hazard in storm prone areas and the results of past freezes • • the Ilnrversuy or Florida's Gardening Solutions website notes that Norfolk Island pines do not hold up well during hurricanes • Not s True Pine: Despite their name Norfolk Island pines are not true pines(damity Pinaceae)but belong to the Ataucarunreae family • Habitat: they are native to n:enrd coastal areas of Norfolk Island in the South Pectic • 6--Let's focus on planting beautiful flowering trees in our city: on our major streets specifically. Near the I-95 exits. Along the sound walls on I-95 in our city. Note West Palm has unique plantings on 95,Boca and Delray do too. Let's make Boynton beautiful on 95 too-let's plant flowering trees that make people go WOW! Sounds like a plan for our resident Beautification Board we need to finally create. 7--Let's refocus on our urban desert problem in D2. One of the first things the SAT resident board did was plant approximately 44 fruit trees at Sara Sims on the corner on Seacrest. The trees were planted(water plumbed in)to provide fruit for the Heart of Boynton residents to enjoy. In the last few years,despite my mentioning to the commission on multiple occasions,this urban orchard has gone down to about 12 trees. Let's bring back the orchard and help the D2 neighborhood that needs access to the fresh fruit. The water supply is set up,we just need to put trees in. 8--No more mango trees!!!!!!!!!!! The city needs to stop giving these trees out at give aways. They grown to over 100 ft tall,people can't get to the fruit at the top,the fruit rots on the tree and on the ground stinking up neighborhoods,and they attract rats and iguanas. You can't walk in parts of my neighborhood at the end of mango season because the stench of rotting fruit is so bad. No mango trees! This is enough for now,although I'm sure I'll think of more as time goes on. Thank you for taking the time to read all of this,do any research,and move forward on these issues. BB Tree Canopy Assessment.pdf 4957K