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Minutes 08-12-25 Meeting Minutes CRA Board Meeting Boynton Beach, FL August 12, 2025 Present: Chair Rebecca Shelton Tim Tack, Acting Executive Director Vice Chair Woodrow Hay Kathryn Rossmell, Board Counsel Board Member Aimee Kelley Maylee De Jesus, City Clerk Board Member Thomas Turkin Board Member Angela Cruz 1. Call to Order Chair Shelton called the meeting to order at 6:00 P.M. 2. Invocation The Invocation was given by Vice Chair Hay. 3. Pledge of Allegiance Board Member Cruz led the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag. 4. Roll Call Ms. Maylee De Jesus, City Clerk, called the roll. A quorum was present. 5. Agenda Approval A. Additions, Deletions, Corrections to the Agenda B. Adoption of Agenda Motion: Board Member Kelley moved to approve the Agenda as amended. Vice Chair Hay seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously. 6. Legal A. Continued Policy Consideration on Public Comments Ms. Rossmell stated that there was no legal obligation to proceed with this and listed the options for public comments that were given to the Board at the prior meeting. She provided an overview of the different options. Board Member Kelley asked for clarification on giving the opportunity to allow for public comments for each item under the regular agenda. Board Member Kelley stated that there should just be one public comment, because separate public comments for each item would be excessive. Board Member Kelley mentioned that she would like to have one public comment at Page 1 of 15 Meeting Minutes CRA Board Meeting Boynton Beach, FL August 12, 2025 the beginning and possibly one more opportunity under new business as a whole. Board Member Turkin stated that he concurred. Vice Chair Hay stated that he concurred but would like to have the opportunity to allow for public comment if needed. Ms. Rossmell stated that it already allowed for that. Public comment was opened. Chair Shelton opened public comment. Susan Oyer stated that there should be two public comment sections at the beginning and at the end, and that the Board's job is to listen to public comments. No virtual comment. Chair Shelton closed public comment. Motion: Board Member Turkin moved to adopt Public Comment Policy as shown in Attachment 3, effective next meeting. Board Member Kelley seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously. 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 Turkin, Vice Chair Hay, and Board Member Cruz had nothing to disclose. Board Member Kelley stated that she spoke to Lauren Goebel regarding 15C. Board Chair Shelton stated that she also spoke to Lauren Goebel regarding 15C. 8. Information Only A. Circuit Transit Inc. 5th Quarterly Report for Service Dated April 1, 2025 - June 30,2025 B. Heart of Boynton Shops Project Update C. CRA Economic & Business Development Grant Program Update D. Neighborhood Officer Program 3rd Quarter Report for FY 2024-2025 (April 2025 - June 2025) E. Social Media & Print Marketing Update F. Boynton Beach Night Market Recap 9. Announcements and Awards Page 2 of 15 Meeting Minutes CRA Board Meeting Boynton Beach, FL August 12, 2025 A. Rock the Plaza Gabby Ferreira, Marketing and Business Promotions Coordinator, announced the Rock the Plaza on Saturday, August 16. 10. Public Comments Chair Shelton opened public comment. Susan Oyer thanked Acting Executive Director Tack for allowing Mike access to the Magnuson House to begin measurements. She referenced the historic house in Northwood that would be eligible for a grant to relocate and hire a Historic Planner. She added that she had secured tenants for her father's house. No virtual comment. Chair Shelton closed public comment. 11. Consent Agenda A. CRA Financial Report Period Ending July 31 , 2025 B. Approval of the CRA Board Meeting Minutes for June 10, 2025 C. Approval of the CRA Board Meeting Minutes for July 8, 2025 D. Approval of the Second Waiver of Neighborhood Officer Program Office Construction Deadline located in the Heart of Boynton Shops at 137 NE 10th Avenue, Unit 108 E. Approval of Temporary Parking Use Agreement with The Journey Community Church, Inc. for the CRA owned property located at 1111 S. Federal Highway F. Approval of the Commercial Property Improvement Grant Program in the Amount of $56,500 to SFEB LLC d/b/a SoFresh located in Sunshine Square at 522 E. Woolbright Road G. Approval of the Commercial Rent Reimbursement Grant Program in the Amount of $24,000 to SFEB LLC d/b/a SoFresh located in Sunshine Square at 522 E. Woolbright Road Motion: Board Member Kelley moved to approve the Consent Agenda. Vice Chair Hay seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously. 12. Pulled Consent Agenda Items There were none. 13. CRA Advisory Board Page 3 of 15 Meeting Minutes CRA Board Meeting Boynton Beach, FL August 12, 2025 A. Pending Assignments - Assignments from the CRA Board Assigned at the February 13, 2024 and the January 14, 2025 CRA Monthly Board Meetings B. Reports on Pending Assignments Acting Executive Director Tack provided an update on the CRA Advisory Board meetings. He noted the June discussion included a splash pad, and that upcoming topics would include recognition of Boynton's two Heisman winners and the renaming of streets. 14. Old Business A. Continued Discussion and Consideration of Budget Funding Towards the Neighborhood Officer Program ("NOP"), Code Enforcement, and/or Beautification Efforts in the CRA Ms. Jobara Jenkins, Finance and Accounting Manager, stated that there were three items for discussion and noted the proposed amounts for each. Acting Executive Director Tim Tack confirmed that the numbers aligned with what the city had proposed. Board Member Kelley stated that eventually there would be a need for a full-time sergeant and asked if more discussion had occurred about utilizing another sergeant for the area. She questioned whether the need would be as strong since CRA events may decrease due to legislative changes. Acting Executive Director Tack replied that he would have to defer to the City. Ms. Rossmell stated that the positions could be placed in the budget without being filled immediately. Acting Executive Director Tack added they were considering expanding the downtown area. Captain Burdelski stated that co-mingling a sergeant within and outside the CRA would be problematic, noting that sergeants oversee different areas. He requested one dedicated to the CRA and explained this was not atypical, given the number of officers a sergeant typically supervises. Board Member Kelley asked if sergeants were currently available to be designated and whether the CRA could be involved when officers are selected. She stated that the positions would require someone who could connect with residents. Captain Burdelski responded that while a list of eligible sergeants exists, it did not guarantee one of them would be chosen. He stated that an interview panel would select the candidate, with changes contingent on the outcome. Ms. Rossmell asked for clarification. Board Member Turkin agreed with Board Member Kelley's comment to continue discussion at the next meeting. Board Member Kelley stated she was comfortable moving forward. Page 4 of 15 Meeting Minutes CRA Board Meeting Boynton Beach, FL August 12, 2025 There was consensus to include the positions in the budget, with further discussion to follow. B. Continued Discussion and Consideration of Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Project Fund Budget - REVISED 08/08/2025 Ms. Vicki Hill, Finance Director, spoke about the Proposed FY 25-26 Budget projects and the amounts allocated for each. She stated that the budget would not be finalized until the following month. Board Member Kelley thanked Ms. Hill for the list and the breakdown of the Master ILA. Acting Executive Director Tim Tack asked if there were other aspects of the projects the Board would like to discuss. Board Member Kelley stated that she would like the CRA to speak with the City about shifting some of the big events to the City, since the CRA was at the edge of what is allowed. Board Member Turkin asked if there was a discussion item for Coquina Cove. Ms. Rossmell stated that she did not believe it was part of the budget but noted there was money in contingency if needed. Ms. Hill stated that the City had a number, but not a final number. Ms. Rossmell asked if the Board would like it added. Board Member Turkin responded yes. Acting Executive Director Tack asked for clarification and stated that the CRA would coordinate with the City. There was no public comment. C. Termination of the Commercial Rent Reimbursement Grant Balance to Dalo Restaurant LLC located at 1017 N. Federal Highway Ms. Bonnie Nicklien, Grants and Project Manager, stated that they opened in June 2024 but were not able to remain open, and the grant would be terminated. Motion: Board Member Kelley moved to approve the Termination of the Commercial Rent Reimbursement Grant Balance to Dalo Restaurant LLC. Vice Chair Hay seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously. D. Discussion and Consideration of the Economic Development Grant Program Page 5 of 15 Meeting Minutes CRA Board Meeting Boynton Beach, FL August 12, 2025 Guidelines and Applications for Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Ms. Bonnie Nicklien, Grants and Project Manager, stated that these grant programs are brought back every year for approval. She stated that they did not have major changes, only minor ones. Board Member Kelley asked if the figures would be changed this year. Ms. Nicklien stated that they were close to $800K for this year, but that $600,000 should be appropriate for the following year. Motion: Board Member Kelley moved to approve the FY 2025-2026 Commercial Rent Reimbursement Grant Program Application and the FY 2025-2026 Commercial Property Improvement Grant Program Application as presented and pending any final review from CRA legal counsel. Board Member Turkin seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously. E. Continued Discussion and Consideration of the Purchase of the Inn at Boynton located at 480 W. Boynton Beach Boulevard - REVISED 08/08/2025 Leslie Evans stated that he represented the owner of the building and was available for questions. Chair Shelton opened public comment. Mack McCray urged the CRA to purchase the property and not let the opportunity get away. Chair Shelton closed public comment. Board Member Turkin stated that there had been an arrest for human trafficking on this site recently and that anything that could be done to eliminate issues and save a life would be important. Vice Chair Hay stated that it would be to the city's advantage to move forward. Board Member Kelley stated that although it would be positive to shut down the property, the owner had already received $3 million from FDOT. She noted that the owner had argued about getting this property for nothing and that while the hotel was being torn down, she could not support spending $8 million in good conscience. She stated that part of the property was now owned by FDOT and while she could not support the deal, it remained important to secure the property. Chair Shelton stated that the site served as a gateway into the city and looked like garbage. Chair Shelton noted that although the owner was coming out on top in the real estate deal, the matter had been ongoing for years and it was time to take control of the property and Page 6 of 15 Meeting Minutes CRA Board Meeting Boynton Beach, FL August 12, 2025 redevelop it. Board Member Cruz stated that Board Member Kelley's comments were rational and not based on emotion. Board Member Cruz suggested that it was the responsibility of taxpayers to ensure proper use of the property and that some kind of credit should be considered for the $3 million already provided to the owner. She stated that she did not see anyone in the private sector willing to pay more for the property and suggested that negotiations be reopened. Mr. Evans stated that the owner had inherited the property, that they did not agree with the past activities on the site, and that they had already paid for consequences. He noted that an appraisal had been conducted excluding the land taken and stated that the location was ideal, being directly off 1-95. He stated that the owner would not lower the price and that negotiations had been conducted in good faith. Chair Shelton asked Acting Executive Director Tack about the other offers that had been received and sent to the board. Acting Executive Director Tack clarified that all materials presented by the other parties were provided to the board separately and explained that no agreements would have been signed unless they were formally executed. Chair Shelton stated that the property was an embarrassment. Board Member Turkin stated that the site was in his backyard, and his constituents did not want another high-rise or a dense project due to Live Local. He stated that while the cost was high, sometimes spending more upfront allowed for greater returns. He stated that taking control would give the city the ability to decide the property's future use. Chair Shelton asked if there were grants available to remove the property. Acting Executive Director Tack affirmed. Vice Chair Hay asked for the base value of the property. Acting Executive Director Tack explained the appraisals that had been completed and the amounts the property was valued at both times. Vice Chair Hay remarked that this should be more than a District 3 call. He noted that properties had been purchased over the appraised value in the past. He described the property as an eyesore and emphasized the opportunity for the board to determine what should be placed on the site. He cautioned that if another development came in and purchased it, they could move forward, so this was the board's chance to look at it and decide the long-term use. Board Member Cruz expressed support for the purchase but said the price was too high. She asked for agreement from the board to pursue grants for demolition. She explained that if this was the intent, then moving forward would be more acceptable to her. Chair Shelton observed that the property would likely sell to the highest and best use and Page 7 of 15 Meeting Minutes CRA Board Meeting Boynton Beach, FL August 12, 2025 could still be controlled at a later date. Acting Executive Director Tack noted that $400,000 was dedicated for demolition and outlined ways to save money. He added that grants would be pursued, but approval was not guaranteed. Chair Shelton reopened public comment. David Katz commented that he had watched the negotiation meeting and thought the Mayor had done a great job. He suggested that the board should take the property because if purchased by another company, Live Local would probably take over the site. Chair Shelton closed public comment. Board Member Kelley voiced support for tearing the property down. Motion: Board Member Turkin moved to approve the purchase of the Inn at Boynton, located at 480 W. Boynton Beach Boulevard, pursuant to the terms provided in the draft Purchase and Sale Agreement and allow the Board Chair to execute the Agreement upon final legal review. Board Member Hay seconded the motion. The motion passed 4-1, with Board Member Kelley dissenting. F. Presentation Regarding the CRA Owned Property Located at 211 E. Ocean Avenue -TABLED 07/08/2025 There was consensus for it to remain tabled. G. Update on Recruitment of Executive Director Candidates by S. Renee Narloch & Associates Acting Executive Director Tack introduced the discussion on the candidates who had applied. Board Member Kelley commented that she had two good interviews and one candidate stood out as someone who could work collaboratively with the City. She indicated she was ready to consider offering the position to that candidate. Board Member Cruz reported that she also had two good interviews, noting that at least one candidate brought strong experience that could benefit CRA leadership. Vice Chair Hay said he had interviewed both candidates and felt either one could do the job. He expressed readiness to move forward with either. Chair Shelton observed that when visiting the cities where the candidates currently worked, their CRAs did not compare to Boynton Beach. She said she was not comfortable with either Page 8 of 15 Meeting Minutes CRA Board Meeting Boynton Beach, FL August 12, 2025 applicant. Board Member Turkin remarked that while both candidates were strong, he did not want to rule out other options to pursue an outside RFP with a professional firm. He cautioned that moving forward in that direction could change the way the CRA is run. He proposed appointing City Manager Dugger as Interim CRA Executive Director while an RFP process was undertaken, especially given the limits placed on CRAB by recent legislation. Board Member Cruz emphasized that the City and CRA were designed as separate entities. She expressed surprise at the suggestion, noting the City Manager already had a significant workload and the CRA Director position required full dedication. Chair Shelton reflected on why the two candidates had applied and said she supported naming the City Manager as Interim Director while the board considered an RFP. Vice Chair Hay reminded the board that the CRA had been searching for a director for some time without success. He opposed assigning the interim role to the City Manager, stressing that his focus needed to remain on City affairs. He suggested an independent or hybrid approach but reaffirmed his opposition. Board Member Turkin clarified that his proposal was only for a temporary role. Vice Chair Hay reiterated his disagreement. Board Member Cruz restated her view that the City was a separate entity and was being run well. She noted that Acting Executive Director Tack had allowed the CRA to thrive and staff morale had been strong. She commended him for his work and said she was not opposed to an RFP. Board Member Kelley said the process had gone on for a long time and does not feel they are making a decision just to conclude it. She said she was comfortable using an RFP for projects but not for the Executive Director role. She stressed she did not want to lose the chance to hire one of the current candidates, reiterating her confidence in one in particular. She also expressed uncertainty about the City Manager serving in an interim capacity. Chair Shelton opened public comment. Mildred Hay commented on the previous termination of the former Executive Director and said any prospective applicant should review that meeting. She stressed the importance of confidence and commitment to the position and added that the prior termination had set a low bar for standards, underscoring the need to treat people with respect. Chair Shelton closed public comment. Chair Shelton reiterated her support for an RFP and asked Acting Executive Director Tack if he wanted the full position. Page 9 of 15 Meeting Minutes CRA Board Meeting Boynton Beach, FL August 12, 2025 Acting Executive Director Tack replied that while staff was excellent, the position required a commitment beyond a standard workday, and he could not accept it. Chair Shelton added that she did not want staff to fear termination with the arrival of a new director but continued to support an RFP. Vice Chair Hay said candidates lacking proper qualifications should not have applied. He recommended making expectations clear if another headhunter was used. Chair Shelton noted that while the candidates presented were the best available, they were not the right fit for the job. Board Member Turkin said he was impressed with but would choose Kris Mory from Deerfield Beach. He proposed moving forward with Chris as the finalist while also considering an RFP. Vice Chair Hay agreed, citing Ms. Mory's strong interview performance and noting that no candidate would be perfect. Board Member Cruz also supported Ms. Mory, explaining her reasoning. She stated she was not opposed to an RFP but emphasized that the decision should provide long-term stability and job security. The board discussed issuing an RFP, negotiating with Ms. Mory as the top candidate, and related options. Motion: Board Member Turkin moved to approve Negotiation of a contract with Ms. Mory. Vice Chair Hay seconded the motion. The motion passed 4-1, with Chair Shelton dissenting. 15. New Business A. Discussion and Consideration of the Request for Proposals for CRA Executive Director Services Acting Executive Director Tack spoke about a draft for an RFP for the CRA Executive Director position. Chair Shelton asked what the draft proposal was based on. Acting Executive Director Tack explained that he had modeled it on a similar process used for another position and was seeking direction from the board that evening. Ms. Rossmell clarified the type of direction staff was requesting from the board. The Board discussion followed regarding the scope of the RFP, possible changes to the terms, the advertising period, and adjusting the timeline for issuing the RFP and receiving Page 10 of 15 Meeting Minutes CRA Board Meeting Boynton Beach, FL August 12, 2025 bids. Board Members also discussed the option of scoping out portions of the bid separately and considered a two-year contract limit with a one-year extension. Chair Shelton opened public comment. Susan Oyer stated that the CRA should go out to RFP to see what other options may be available and suggested that there might be a potential cost savings. Chair Shelton closed public comment. Ms. Rossmell further explained the RFP process and noted what elements could be modified. She added that a special meeting could be scheduled if needed. Motion: Board Member Turkin moved to issue the RFP, with a change to (2) two years with (1) one year renewal. Vice Chair Hay seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously. Motion: Board Member Turkin moved to issue the RFP, to allow the acting executive director to call a Special Meeting. Vice Chair Hay seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously. B. Discussion and Consideration of Marina Lease Agreements for Fiscal Years 2025- 2027 Brian Smith, Manager of the Boynton Marina, discussed the cost per linear foot for the slip lease. He noted that the rate has remained unchanged for several years and is still lower than other marinas in the area. Board Member Turkin remarked that he did not want to alter the rate at this time, especially with the seawall scheduled for replacement. He asked if local vendor preference was being applied when leases were filled. Mr. Smith responded that there was a waitlist of ten businesses, and he had no objection to giving preference. Board Member Turkin commented that the City already applies this practice on its side and suggested the CRA do the same moving forward. Board Member Kelley expressed that she also did not wish to raise rates at present due to the seawall replacement. She emphasized her support for prioritizing local businesses. Board Member Turkin inquired about how a policy could be formally established. Page 11 of 15 Meeting Minutes CRA Board Meeting Boynton Beach, FL August 12, 2025 Ms. Rossmell explained that the matter was separate from the agreement currently before the board. Board Member Turkin stated that he wanted to provide direction now and also ensure a permanent policy change in the future. Ms. Rossmell reiterated the revisions that had been made in the agreement. The board then discussed past issues related to the agreement. Chair Shelton opened public comment. No one came forth to speak. Chair Shelton closed public comment. Motion: Board Member Kelley moved to approve the lease agreement. Board Member Turkin seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously. C. Discussion and Consideration of the Purchase of 670 Oak Street - REVISED 08/08/2025 Acting Executive Director Tack spoke about the possible sale of the property, including what was offered and negotiated, and noted existing restrictions. Ms. Lauren Goebel stated that the property had been in the family since the 1950s and emphasized the opportunity for the City to purchase it. Deputy City Manager Mack presented the conceptual drawing, highlighted the potential of the site, and explained that while the project could work, some of the City's terms were problematic. Acting Executive Director Tack added that the CRA would not use much of the land for redevelopment but that a partnership with the City made sense. Board Member Kelley stated that such an opportunity had never been available before, supported expanding Harvey Oyer Park, and said the only option should be to purchase the entire property. Chair Shelton agreed. Board Member Cruz explained that she had not been knowledgeable about the plan until now and asked about the appraised value and zoning. Discussion followed regarding the appraisal, revenue potential, and whether the property had been on the market. Page 12 of 15 Meeting Minutes CRA Board Meeting Boynton Beach, FL August 12, 2025 Vice Chair Hay spoke about the purchase price and the conceptual plan and expressed support. Deputy City Manager Mack emphasized that the timing was perfect and noted the many benefits. Ms. Goebel reiterated the importance of working with the community given the family's long ownership of the land. Chair Shelton opened public comment. Elizabeth Rowe supported the preservation of open land and urged not to miss the opportunity. She raised concerns about traffic, construction timelines, and requested a cement wall on her side of the property, as had been installed on the north side. She also recognized the benefits of the project. Board Member Turkin suggested holding a joint workshop to determine future use. Board Member Cruz cautioned against overpaying for properties in the future. Emily Ryan supported the City's purchase, expressed opposition to a private developer, and requested a neighborhood gate for park access. She shared ideas for future use of the land. Mike Ryan supported the purchase but raised concerns about traffic, garbage collection, and related impacts. Chair Shelton closed public comment. Board Member Turkin added that the seawall was a major consideration and stated that this was an opportunity to help mitigate issues while preparing for replacement of the wall. Motion: Board Member Turkin moved to approve contract negotiation for 670 Oak Street. Vice Chair Hay seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously. D. Discussion and Consideration of the Future Use of 419 N. Seacrest Boulevard Acting Executive Director Tack spoke about obtaining this property and explained that the idea was to use it for affordable housing. He suggested a few options and asked for Board direction. Board Member Kelley stated that there is a Head Start program in the City seeking a new home and suggested this property as a temporary location until their facility is built. Acting Executive Director Tack stated that he could coordinate with City staff to determine if Page 13 of 15 Meeting Minutes CRA Board Meeting Boynton Beach, FL August 12, 2025 this would work and said he would research the option further. Chair Shelton opened public comment. No one came forth to speak. Chair Shelton closed public comment. E. Discussion and Consideration of Planning for 2026 Legislative Session Ms. Rossmell asked if there were legislative opportunities the Board would like to pursue so a lobbyist could be considered. Board Member Turkin stated that he was comfortable not taking action at this time. Board Member Kelley stated that it was important to be proactive and noted that conversations were already taking place with the City's lobbyist regarding issues with bills being filed. Ms. Rossmell stated that she was open to communicating with the City's lobbyist and noted that they received notifications on any legislation that might affect the CRA. F. Consideration of Registration and Travel Expenses to Attend the Florida Redevelopment Association 2025 Annual Conference on October 14-17, 2025 in West Palm Beach, FL Acting Executive Director Tack stated that this was the annual conference, noted its benefits, and asked who would be able to attend. He also asked if the Board would like to open the opportunity to CRA Advisory Board members, since no hotel stay would be required. Board Member Turkin stated that he would like to open the opportunity to CRAB. Vice Chair Hay stated that he would be able to attend. 16. Future Agenda Items A. Continued Discussion and Consideration of the Purchase of the 13 Parcel Assemblage located at 444 W. Boynton Beach Boulevard B. Discussion and Consideration of Redevelopment at 217 N. Seacrest Boulevard (USPS Site) C. Discussion and Consideration of Approval of Infill Housing RFP D. Discussion and Consideration of Amending the 2016 Community Redevelopment Plan E. Discussion and Consideration of the Andrews House Located at the 306 SE 1St Avenue F. Discussion and Consideration of the Adoption of "Exhibit A" to the Interlocal Agreement between the Boynton Beach CRA and the City of Boynton Beach for Funding Construction and Professional Services Page 14 of 15 Meeting Minutes CRA Board Meeting Boynton Beach, FL August 12, 2025 17. Adjournment There being no further business to discuss, the meeting was adjourned at 8:53 P.M. nJi . .___ _----of B0)%%•%, Mayl e Jesus, MPA, MMC ; d• • �� �;0., City Irk � bR i 0 ;