Minutes 12-05-25 Minutes of the Community Redevelopment Agency Board Meeting
Held on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, at 6:00 PM
City Hall Chambers, 100 E. Ocean Avenue and Online
Present:
Chair Rebecca Shelton Chris Brown, CRA Executive Director
Vice Chair Woodrow Hay Tim Tack, Assistant Director
Board Member Aimee Kelley Kathryn Rossmell, Board Counsel
Board Member Thomas Turkin Maylee De Jesus, City Clerk
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
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. Vice Chair Hay seconded the motion. The
motion passed unanimously.
6. Legal
There were no updates.
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
Chair Shelton introduced Sergeant Widy Jean and stated that he would serve as the new NOP
officer.
Board Member Turkin stated that he spoke with legal counsel regarding Item 14B.
CRA Board Meeting
Boynton Beach, FL December 9, 2025
Board Member Kelley stated that she spoke with representatives regarding Item 14D.
Chair Shelton stated that she spoke with legal counsel regarding Item 14D.
Vice Chair Hay stated that he had no disclosures. He also noted that the tree lighting and holiday
parade were successful.
Board Member Cruz stated that she spoke with representatives regarding Item 14D. She also
expressed appreciation to City staff for support of the recent events.
8. Information Only
A. MLK Entry Feature Project Update
B. Social Media & Print Marketing Update
C. CRA Economic & Business Development Grant Program Update
9. Announcements and Awards
A. 2025 Holiday Boat Parade Announcement
Mercedes Coppin, Business Development and Promotions Manager, announced the Holiday Boat
Parade and stated that the event would take place during the upcoming weekend. She stated that
the event would include multiple vendors and activities.
Vice Chair Hay requested that the participating boats to slow down.
Board Member Cruz stated that the Holiday Boat Parade has consistently been well organized
and successful.
10. Public Comments
Chair Shelton opened public comment.
Susan Oyer commended the holiday tree and stated that it was a great and kinetic display.
Susan Oyer stated that a Code Workshop was occurring at the same time, stated concerns
regarding ongoing drought conditions, stated that TIF funding should not be provided to renters,
and stated support for a rent-to-own approach.
Gavin Sizer stated that there was a need for renewable energy and stated comments regarding
redevelopment surrounding the Boynton Mall.
There were no virtual comments.
Chair Shelton closed public comment.
11. Consent Agenda
A. CRA Financial Report Period Ending November 30, 2025
B. Approval of the Joint CRA Board/City Commission Workshop Minutes for November
8, 2025
C. Approval of the CRA Board Meeting Minutes for November 10, 2025
CRA Board Meeting
Boynton Beach, FL December 9, 2025
D. Approval of the Commercial Property Improvement Grant Program in the Amount of
$60,000 to Rusty's Restaurant and Lounge LLC d/b/a Rusty's Carib Cuisine located
in 500 Ocean at 510 E. Ocean Avenue, Unit 107
E. Approval of the Commercial Rent Reimbursement Grant Program in the Amount of
$22,786.26 to Rusty's Restaurant and Lounge LLC d/b/a Rusty's Carib Cuisine located
in 500 Ocean at 510 E. Ocean Avenue, Unit 107
F. Approval of the Commercial Business Marketing Grant Program in the amount of$2,500
to Scheurer's Chocolate located at 640 E. Ocean Avenue #10, Boynton Beach, FL
33435
Motion:
Board Member Turkin 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
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
Tim Tack, CRA Assistant Director, provided an update on the CRAB meeting. He reported
discussion of Heisman candidates. The Board agreed on the 2026 meeting dates and the
selection of a Vice Chair.
Board Member Turkin commented that the CRA should steer away from the street naming
assignment at this time. He noted the need for clearer direction for the CRAB to support
collaboration.
Board Member Kelley agreed and indicated that, as work continues, the CRAB would be given
additional tasks.
Mr. Tack also discussed the Tiki Motel and the potential purchase of the property. He described
the site and its context.
Board Member Turkin expressed comfort with foregoing the property at this time and suggested
revisiting the item later. He noted that cooling market conditions could create opportunities to
acquire similar properties at more favorable prices.
Vice Chair Hay noted that the appraisal could support a future property swap with the City. He
referenced the property's location on Federal Highway as adding value.
Chair Shelton expressed interest in reviewing the property's value. Mr. Tack confirmed that an
appraisal would be completed.
CRA Board Meeting
Boynton Beach, FL December 9, 2025
14. Old Business
A. Heart of Boynton Shops Project Update
Chris Brown, CRA Executive Director, noted that prior work included two main street projects
along MLK corridors and stated that this project represented the finest MLK-related
development observed during a professional career. He described touring the property and
indicated that the project would serve many residents.
Bonnie Nicklien, Grants and Project Manager, presented the following: current property
information; current costs for the tenants; proposed costs for the tenants; proposed
contribution from the CRA; and the economic impact.
Vice Chair Hay thanked Ms. Nicklien for the presentation and expressed appreciation for the
effort. He voiced support for the project and emphasized that ensuring success remained a
priority.
Board Member Cruz praised Ms. Nicklien for the presentation and stated that the initiative
was important.
Board Member Turkin thanked all parties for patience with the developer and asked whether
additional elements were included. He agreed with the allocation approach and asked what
other options were available.
Chair Shelton asked whether any new information emerged from a recent meeting with the
developer.
Mr. Tack summarized the meeting with the developer and addressed topics that were raised
during the discussion.
Board Member Kelley indicated that a clear position had been communicated and affirmed
that efforts would continue to move the project forward. She raised concerns that delays
could stall the project and stated that the developer should contribute more, noting that the
current position resulted from prior actions.
Chair Shelton observed that the developer may not be inclined to offer immediate
concessions and asked whether options existed to address obligations that were not met.
Ms. Rossmell reviewed the agreement with the developer and outlined solutions that could
be considered.
Vice Chair Hay expressed disagreement with certain approaches and stated that tenants
were being penalized. He proposed implementing time limits, noting that the process had
continued for an extended period.
Board Member Cruz discussed adding local hiring requirements if CRA funding is provided
and stated that support existed for moving forward with a lower percentage. She said that 80
percent was too high.
Discussion followed regarding the percentage that should be contributed; whether assistance
should be structured as a grant or rent reimbursement; maximum grant amounts; tiered
CRA Board Meeting
Boynton Beach, FL December 9, 2025
approaches; concerns that too much funding could be committed at this stage; increasing
contributions to maintain fairness; prioritizing tenant occupancy; revisiting the percentage
with the developer at a later time; confirmation that first-round payouts were issued during
the prior week; the importance of having a developer that would work with the CRA;
supplementing higher-use costs; and negotiating terms at the beginning rather than the end.
There was consensus that negotiations should occur with the developer and that the item
should return to the Board for approval.
Ms. Nicklien asked for clarification regarding the percentage.
Board Member Turkin stated that 60 percent was fair and suggested that the developer be
asked to contribute 20 percent.
Mr. Brown suggested that the contribution be reduced by 10 percent.
Chair Shelton supported reducing the percentage to 20 percent.
Discussion continued regarding the percentage and whether the developer should attend a
future meeting. It was noted that 80 percent would place tenants close to an ideal outcome,
while 60 percent was viewed as more appropriate. Additional comments referenced that
businesses hire locally, that existing contracts were in place, and that commitments to local
hiring existed.
Motion:
Board Member Turkin moved to approve reimbursement of construction-related costs of up
to 60 percent and to direct staff to work directly with the developer. Board Member Cruz
seconded the motion. The motion passed 4-1 with Vice Chair Hay voting in opposition.
B. Discussion and Consideration of an Invitation to Negotiate for the Development of
Affordable/Workforce Infill Housing
Ms. Nicklien presented the following: property map; redevelopment strategy; 2025 workforce
housing goals; ITN terms for consideration; proposed ITN timeline; and next steps.
Board Member Kelley stated that she was pleased to see the item moving forward and stated
that it represented a strong opportunity. Ms. Nicklien responded that staff would work to
ensure the best possible pool of respondents.
Board Member Turkin asked whether the process would be fully open, given that the item
was being advanced through an ITN.
Ms. Rossmell explained that an ITN made the most sense for the objectives being pursued
and stated that the ITN structure would allow flexibility to evaluate proposals aligned with
CRA goals.
Motion:
CRA Board Meeting
Boynton Beach, FL December 9, 2025
Board Member Kelley moved to approve the invitation to negotiate for the Development of
Affordable/Workforce Infill Housing. Board Member Turkin second the motion. In a roll call
vote, the motion passed unanimously.
C. Discussion of Project Status for the Boynton Beach Office Condominium, LLC Project
Located at 1102-1110 N. Federal Highway
Theresa Utterback, Development Services Manager, addressed the Board regarding the
property at 1110 N. Federal Highway and explained that the discussion focused on the
current status of the site, outstanding issues, and the permitting process. Ms. Utterback
noted that upcoming deadlines would affect how the project proceeds.
Mr. Tack asked how the Board would like to move forward with the project.
Board Member Turkin left the dais at approximately 7:16 p.m. and returned at approximately
7:20 p.m.
Board Member Kelley expressed frustration with how the project reached its current point
and emphasized the need for firm deadlines. She remarked that the site is a prime
redevelopment location and observed that it has remained undeveloped for an extended
period.
Deris Bardales, BDH Consulting Group, explained that the development team cares about
the City and described the history of the project. He reported that the project is currently in
the permitting phase and shared that several required items were being submitted that day.
Mr. Bardales emphasized that there is no intention to leave the City and confirmed that work
will continue through the permitting process. He discussed financing efforts and referenced
delays related to a government shutdown.
Chair Shelton asked about the status of the buyout involving another party.
Mr. Bardales responded that the buyout amount was approximately $130,000.
Chair Shelton asked whether prequalification with a bank had been obtained and inquired
about the intended use of the property.
Mr. Bardales replied that the property would be rented and mentioned the possibility of a
cooperative model with other businesses.
Board Member Kelley asserted that the project must move forward and stressed that
additional extensions should not be granted.
Vice Chair Hay left the dais at approximately 7:22 p.m. and returned to the dais at 7:26 p.m.
Mr. Bardales reported that the overall project timeline has been shortened by approximately
six months.
Board Member Kelley indicated that, by the next meeting, expectations include
communication with CRA staff and presentation of a clear plan demonstrating progress.
CRA Board Meeting
Boynton Beach, FL December 9, 2025
Board Member Cruz shared that residents have experienced challenges with the permitting
process and requested consideration of a 60-day timeframe rather than 30 days to allow
time to reconvene.
Board Member Kelley highlighted the need for timely action.
Chair Shelton asked whether funding could be secured within 45 days.
Mr. Bardales stated that he would work diligently to get an answer.
Board Member Turkin voiced concern regarding the exchange of in-kind services and
remarked that the process has taken too long. He suggested that reverting the land should
be considered and commented that the current use does not reflect the highest and best use
of the property.
Vice Chair Hay commented that an extension into February could be considered.
Chair Shelton requested clarification regarding what motion, if any, was being contemplated.
Ms. Rossmell outlined the options available to the Board and explained the possible paths
forward.
Chair Shelton asked whether the in-kind contributions could be paid on time.
Mr. Bardales replied that efforts are underway to meet those obligations and explained that
budgeting has occurred for the required portions of the agreement, while work continues to
address the remaining amount.
There was discussion regarding the available options.
Ms. Rossmell confirmed that the consensus from the Board was for staff to take no action at
this time.
Mr. Rogatinsky stated the development process with the City had been lengthy and
challenging, but clarified the decision to withdraw from the project was based on economic
feasibility. He explained construction costs for a small office with limited parking would
exceed comparable rental options. Mr. Rogatinsky stated in-kind advertising remained
available through the company's radio stations serving Palm Beach and Broward counties
and emphasized the CRA could not claim unused in-kind services if the advertising was not
utilized.
D. Discussion and Consideration of Additional Funding for the Tax Increment Revenue
Funding (TIRFA) for the Ocean One Project Located at 114-222 N. Federal Highway
Bonnie Miskel spoke regarding submission of an additional TIF request.
Jordan Thaler, on behalf of Hyperion Group, stated that significant progress has occurred
and discussed project-related steps, including paying permit costs, paying water and sewer
fees, and working closely with project partners. Mr. Thaler stated that the current request is
CRA Board Meeting
Boynton Beach, FL December 9, 2025
part of a broader, ongoing discussion and noted that a local job fair will be taking place soon.
Ms. Miskel discussed the TIF request further and explained that project costs have been
scaled back. Ms. Miskel stated that assistance is being requested to allow the project to move
forward to closing.
Board Member Turkin reviewed the financial figures and stated support for returning to the
originally requested contribution level of 11.5 percent.
Chair Shelton stated agreement with the 11.5 percent request and stated support for
providing the assistance needed to move the project forward.
Board Member Cruz and Vice Chair Hay agreed.
Board Member Turkin discussed alternative outcomes and stated that such outcomes would
not align with resident expectations. He noted that the applicant has worked collaboratively
with the City.
Board Member Kelley suggested that the applicant represents the type of project the City
seeks and stated that efforts on the project have continued despite challenges. She
referenced coordination with Mr. Thaler to secure parking accommodations for the recent
parade and stated that this collaboration reflects the purpose of the request.
Mr. Thaler emphasized that the project is very important to the development team.
Board Member Kelley stated a desire to deliver a project that the City can be proud of.
Ms. Rossmell requested clarification regarding the motion.
Motion:
Board Member Turkin moved to increase the total TIF funding from $9 million to $11.5 million
total and adjusting the terms from 12 years to 14 years. Vice Chair Hay seconded the motion. In
a voice vote, the motion passed unanimously.
E. Continued Discussion and Consideration of the 2026 CRA Board Meeting Dates
Mr. Tack discussed a scheduling conflict on March 10.
Board Member Turkin proposed moving the meeting to March 9.
Mr. Tack stated that the next meeting was scheduled for January 8 as a joint City/CRA
meeting.
Vice Chair Hay asked what items would be on the joint meeting agenda.
Board Member Turkin stated no agenda had been defined.
Mayor Shelton stated the joint meeting was necessary.
CRA Board Meeting
Boynton Beach, FL December 9, 2025
Board Member Kelley noted that the CRA meeting was scheduled for 6:00 P.M. and the
joint meeting for 5:00 P.M. and expressed a preference for a 6:00 P.M. start time.
Motion:
Board Member Cruz moved to amend the meeting date to March 9, 2026. Board Member
Turkin seconded the motion. In voice vote, the motion passed unanimously.
15. New Business
A. Consideration of Resolution No. R25-02 Adopting the CRA Budget for Fiscal Year
2025-2026
Jobara Jenkins, Accounting and Finance Manager, that reported the City received a clean
audited financial report for the 17th consecutive year and reviewed outstanding debt, capital
assets, long-term liabilities, and the unassigned fund balance available for potential
reallocations.
B. Discussion and Consideration of Discussion Topics for January 8, 2026 Joint CRA
Board/City of Boynton Beach Commission Meeting
Board Member Kelley asked whether updates would be provided at the next joint meeting.
Mr. Tack stated that updates could be provided.
Board Member Turkin suggested beginning budget discussions, including consideration
of a bond for property acquisition, and recommended reviewing marina policy for local
preference and increased focus on the waterfront.
Ms. Rossmell stated that the marina policy work was already in progress.
Board Member Cruz requested background information on pursuing a bond.
Ms. Rossmell confirmed that a meeting with the CRA regarding bonds was scheduled.
Mr. Brown stated that an underwritten bond was not recommended and suggested a bank-
certified loan instead, noting current work with another city and emphasizing the
importance of infrastructure for developers and expanding businesses.
Vice Chair Hay commented on technology considerations.
16. Future Agenda Items
A. Presentation Regarding the CRA Owned Property Located at 211 E. Ocean Avenue -
TABLED 07/08/2025, TABLED ON 09/09/2025 TO A DATE CERTAIN ON 11/10/2025,
TABLED ON 11/10/2025 TO A DATE CERTAIN ON 01/08/2026
B. Discussion and Consideration of Approval of Memorandum of Understanding for Ocean
Breeze West
C. Continued Discussion and Consideration of the Purchase of the 13 Parcel Assemblage
CRA Board Meeting
Boynton Beach, FL December 9, 2025
located at 444 W. Boynton Beach Boulevard
17. Adjournment
There being no further business to discuss, the meeting was adjourned at 8:17 P.M.
.0 Aril
Ma lee '1- -sus TWA MMC - gDYN1'0%
City Cl o o �:cORPORgT*,�y
i
,
SEAL _
INCORPORATED:
di I �.,0.1920 .
�`�� FCORIDP?'