Minutes 09-02-98 MINUTES OF CITY COMMISSION WORKSHOP MEETING
HELD IN COMMISSION CHAMBERS, CITY HALL, BOYNTON BEACH, FLORIDA
ON WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 1998 AT 6:30 P.M.
PRESENT
Gerald "Jerry" Taylor, Mayor
Shirley Jaskiewicz, Vice Mayor
Henderson Tillman, Mayor Pro Tem
Commissioner Jamie Titcomb
Commissioner Nellie Denahan
OPENING REMARKS
Kerry Willis, City Manager
Jim Cherof, City Attorney
Wilfred Hawkins, Support Services Mgr.
Sue Kruse, City Clerk
Hank Ackermann, Neighborhood Project
Specialist
Mayor Taylor called the meeting to order at 6:37 p.m. and thanked everyone for being
present this evening. Mayor Taylor stated this was a special workshop meeting to
address the BOYNTON TERRACE ISSUES and that Mr. Wilfred Hawkins will be
facilitating tonight's meeting
Mr. Hawkins took the podium and stated that tonight's Agenda will.be adhered to and
that he will be presenting an overview of the issues. Mr. HaWkins reminded the
audience that the meeting tonight was a workshop and will be informational in nature.
Mr. Hawkins acknowledged the presence in the audience of a contingency of
management personnel from Heritage Management Company, which is the
management company of the Boynton Terrace Apartments. A staff report from the City
project team will be presented. That team is comprised of Mr. Ackermann, Police Chief
Marshall Gage and myself. Mr. Hawkins made note that there has been excellent
cooperation from the staff of Heritage Management and Reliance Management. Also,
visuals will be provided to the Commission for reference. Mr. Hawkins stated that
Heritage Management would be presenting their proposal this evening.
After the Heritage Management presentation, there will be discussion on what the City's
support for the project could be, based on staff's recommendation. Mr. Hawkins
requested from Mayor Taylor that questions from the audience be withheld until the
conclusion of the presentation, to which Mayor Taylor agreed.
Mr. Ackermann was introduced and took the podium to give a brief update of the
Boynton Terrace issues. Mr. Ackermann referred the Commission to the Amended
Boynton Terrace Apartments Plan of Action, which evolved from a series of meetings
that were held after the July 12th incident.
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Some of the goals set were-
· to hold the owners of the property responsible for improving
overall conditions;
· strict enforcement of building codes and nuisance abatement
ordinances to assure better quality of life for the residents;
· strengthening of communication between residents and the City;
and
· establish a better understanding and enhance communication
between the residents and the Police Department.
Mr. Ackermann stated that Police Officer Brian Anderson has been assigned full-time
duty at the Boynton Terrace Apartments. Officer Anderson has earned the respect and
cooperation of the residents of Boynton Terrace. With regard to long range action
goals, some of the goals have been moved up and will be addressed this evening. The
Commission was also referred to the Progress Report on Boynton Terrace Plan of
Action included in their packets. Mr. Ackermann stated that many areas of concern
contained in the progress report have been resolved after the first meeting and their
progress will be reported on as well.
Mr. Hawkins introduced Mr. Don Pace, the Vice President of Heritage/Reliance. Mr.
Pace took the podium and stated he was Vice President of Planning and Development
for Heritage Rural Housing and introduced his staff that was present in the audience.
Mr. Pace introduced Mr. Michael Hartman, CEO of Heritage Rural Housing who would
be making Heritage's presentation this evening.
Michael Hartman, Chief Operating Officer for the Heritage Companies took the podium
and thanked the Mayor and the Commission for the opportunity to make their
presentation this evening for the Boynton Terrace Apartments. Mr. Hartman stated
that Mr. Pace, as Vice President of Acquisitions, would be in charge of the Boynton
Terrace Apartments from the outset to the finish. Mr. Hartman stated that Heritage
Company is the current manager of the property. Heritage is not the owner and does
not have any ownership interest in Boynton Terrace. Chris Mathieson, Social Service
Director for Heritage and Suzette Smith, Regional Manager are also present and will be
speaking to the Commission.
Mr. Hartman stated that Boynton Terrace was in great need of up-grading and major
renovations. This would include the following -
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2.
3.
4.
Complete rehabilitation of the units.
Security--Residents need to feel they are safe.
Amenities are needed--currently none.
Social services need to be provided to residents.
How will these four items be accomplished and can money be borrowed to accomplish
these goals? Mr. Hartman said that based upon rents and operating expenses, the
property could not support any more debt. The next step considered was a purchase of
the property and to apply for long-term housing tax credits from the State. Mr. Hartman
referred the Commission to the first page of the presentation, which explained how tax
credits work. Tax credits are a federal program under the Internal Revenue Code (IRC)
which permits the property owner through a credit on their federal income taxes to
recover 70% of the cost of the property over a ten-year period. Tax credits are
purchased at discount by large corporations, typically 68¢ to 75¢ on the dollar, which is
offset on their federal income taxes. Mr. Hartman read the list of some major
corporations that purchase tax credits. What this means is that the corporations are
providing unsecured subordinated financing for their tax credits. This is considered a
major risk, as they hold no mortgage on the property and the only way they get their
money back is through the tax credits over a ten-year period. If the property had to be
foreclosed upon any time in the future, the tax credit would be lost and their investment
in the property could not be recovered.
Mr. Hartman stated the process for obtaining tax credits is competitive via an application
process through the State. The Florida Housing Finance Corporation (FHFC) will issue
a notice of funds availability and in January all the applications are reviewed and judged
on a competitive scale. A complicated point system of meeting 650 points is in place
and there is a great deal of competition. The one most important item differentiating
applications is local contribution. Local contribution does not necessarily mean money
nor does it have to be from the city. It can come from the city or county, or both, in
forms of abatements or grants from other sources. Boynton Beach was considered
because of its "large county" status. Sixty-fix percent of the State's total tax credit
allocations will be given to large counties.
Mr. Hartman referred the Commission to the brochure setting forth Heritage's
qualifications for the project. Since the inception of tax credits in 1987, Heritage has
been in the tax credit business since 1988. Commissioners were referred to the list of all
Heritage properties in the brochure. Mr. Hartman indicated that photographs of some of
their properties are also included in the brochure for review.
With regard to the tax credit applications the final allocations will be made next Friday.
Of the 103 applications that were made statewide, only 10 were approved for tax.
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credits. One application was Heritage's. Mr. Hartman stated that as managers of the
property they had to work within the budget given by the owners and tried to do what
they could for the residents. If Heritage were successful in obtaining the tax credits,
$6,000,000 in rehabilitation will be done to the property. If unsuccessful in their tax
credit application, it would not be possible to do this amount of rehabilitation.
Mr. Pace asked the Commission to turn to the section called "Bristol Place" and stated
that the name of Boynton Terrace will be changed to Bristol Place. Mr. Pace indicated
this name was used earlier when application for funds to renovate the units was made
to the County. Heritage was not successful, as the County felt that too much money
was being spent to upgrade the units. Mr. Pace reviewed with the Commissioners all
the work proposed to rehabilitate Boynton Terrace. Also, Mr. Pace pointed out on the
drawing that a security fence will be installed which will be a 6' high concrete block wall
and at 20' intervals wrought iron will be placed. A guardhouse will be built and there will
be 24-hour security. A clubhouse and swimming pool will be added, together with a
basketball court and tot lots. On the other side of the street, a pavilion with grills for
barbecuing will be added. Pointing to the drawings, Mr. Pace described how the
entrances and roads would be closed off to make the area very secure.
Vice Mayor Jaskiewicz inquired if there was sufficient property to accomplish all of the
foregoing renovations and additions or is land acquisition necessary? Mr. Pace stated
that additional land acquisition would be necessary. Mr. Pace stated this would be
discussed further under the City's contribution during the presentation.
Mr. Pace indicated on the drawing to the location of the proposed 2,500' clubhouse.
The clubhouse would contain male and female restrooms, a vending area, and 24-hour
laundry and community room. There will be offices for social services and residents will
be able to rent the offices for various social functions. Computers will be offered for
both children and adults. An exercise room will be included. The clubhouse would be
placed on the newly purchased land.
The Commission was referred to the Estimate Sheets in the brochure, which list total
amenities costing $267,000. To perform all of rehabilitation the total cost would be
$3,435,426.00. This breaks down to $38,600 per unit, which Mr. Pace referred to as
"hard cost". Moving to the next page, Mr. Pace reviewed the Acquisition and
Development costs and stated total cost of the project would be $11,729,680.
The cost of purchasing the land totals $6,395,000. Mr. Pace stated that the
outstanding debt on the property is $4,939,288. Also, the present owners will need
$1,400,000 to recapture taxes in addition to the outstanding debt figure. This equates
to $7'1,000 per unit, which is extremely high. Through the tax credit route, Heritage will
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receive approximately $5,800,000 in tax credits, therefore total cost is approximately
$5,800,000. Mr. Pace also stated that the site plan and the clubhouse were also
included in the brochure. Mr. Pace introduced Chris Mathieson to give an overview on
proposed social services that will be offered.
Ms. Mathieson informed the Commission that she was in charge of resident services for
all Heritage properties. Ms. Mathieson explained how she introduces social services to
the residents after determining what the residents would like offered and what the
residents need. Ms. Mathieson requested that the Commission review all of the
services that are offered by Reliance Management. Currently, there is a tenant
association that meets monthly at Boynton Terrace and a crime watch is being formed.
Ms. Mathieson indicated that programs need to be in place for the youth and it is
anticipated that a computer lab will be added as an after school program. The
computers will also be offered to adults for training in the evening. Ms. Mathieson
reviewed the proposed resident services with the Commission.
Vice Mayor Jaskiewicz asked how many residents attended the monthly meetings? Ms.
Mathieson stated that on the average approximately 20 residents attend the meetings.
Mayor Taylor inquired how many computers would be purchased? Ms. Mathieson
stated that initially there would be four to six computers, which would include basic
software.
Suzette Smith took the podium and informed the Commission that she was present at
the first tenants association meeting. Some of the concerns that have been addressed
were adequate lighting and replacement of non-working lighting. The parking lot is
being striped. Three lots have been completed and there are two remaining. Also,
decals have been ordered and numbers will be assigned. Residents will have their own
parking space. Statewide background checks will now be performed as opposed to City
only checks. This arrangement has been provided for at a cost of $15.00 per check.
Vice Mayor Jaskiewicz asked about the background checks. Ms. Smith said that
Boynton Beach Police background checks were done in the past, but now statewide
checks will be implemented.
Vice Mayor Jaskiewicz inquired how many evictions have taken place as a result of
drug dealing on the property and was informed that none have taken place. Vice Mayor
Jaskiewicz stated this was an amazing statistic in light of all the drug problems that are
taking place daily at Boynton Terrace.
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Mayor Taylor inquired if any applicants for an apartment have been denied as the result
of a background check? Ms. Smith indicated she did not have the number, but there
have been denials for an apartment as the result of background checks.
Mr. Hartman informed the Commission that it is Heritage's policy that a background
check for ten years is done which allows for one misdemeanor and no felonies. Mr.
Hartman stated that most of the problems come onto the property from offsite and there
are many fine residents on the property. By increasing the security, this should greatly
decrease many of the current problems. Mayor Taylor inquired if there was a policy in
place dealing with trouble tenants and if after a certain amount of offenses or warnings,
the tenant is asked to move out. Mr. Hartman said he would check to see if there is a
current policy and get back to the Mayor on this.
Commissioner Titcomb asked what Heritage's interaction was with the owner of the
property and what is the owner's position on this project. Mr. Hartman stated that the
owner changed two years ago and the general partner withdrew and the limited partner
took over, who is the tax credit buyer. Mr. Hartman stated that the current owners try to
keep the property in good repair and informed the Commission that the State under the
tax credit program inspects the property yearly. Mr. Hartman stated due to the large
debt on the property, the owner is unable to do anything further with the property and is
trying to work with Heritage on this project. The owners are located in California and
are called National Partners Investment Corporation (NPICO).
Mayor Pro Tem Tillman inquired if the current owners are aware of Heritage's proposal
and Mr. Hartman stated they have signed a letter of intent with the owners to purchase
the property, which is contingent upon the successful award of the tax credits.
Mayor Pro Tem Tillman asked how the yearly inspection took place. Mr. Hartman
stated that the Florida Housing Finance Corporation, which requires a yearly inspection,
ascertains that all tenants qualify under the income guidelines and FHFC performs a
physical inspection of 100% of the exterior of the property and a random number of
units of the interior. If there are violations and they are not timely corrected, the FHFC
issues an IRS form 8823. The form is sent to the IRS and the tax credits are
suspended until the property is brought back into compliance.
Mayor Pro Tem Tillman inquired what happens when a complaint is issued? Mr.
Hartman stated if there is a violation found it has to be corrected. Mayor Pro Tem
Tillman inquired if there were any violations found through past inspections? Mr.
Hartman stated that the current owners are not in the tax credit program and therefore
this does not apply. However, Mr. Hartman stated the property is inspected by HUD
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because of the rental contract. Mr. Hartman stated he did not know of any violations
under that program.
Mayor Taylor inquired if the manager lives on site and was informed she did. Mayor
Taylor asked where the other Heritage representatives resided and was informed that
the representatives present this evening reside in the Cape Canaveral area,
Mayor Taylor asked what the operating budget was for the property? Mr. Hartman
stated that in a typical rehabilitated or new property the cost is routinely $350 per unit,
per year for maintenance. Mr. Hartman stated this property, which is in need of
rehabilitation, costs over $1,000 per unit, per year for maintenance. Therefore all of the
money available is used for upkeep.
Discussion about the cost of security was raised. It was noted that Ms. Smith stated
that there has always been security at the property, which was provided by a private
security company, but was not on a 24-hour basis.
Vice Mayor Jaskiewicz inquired how much subsidiary is received from the government?
Mr. Hartman stated that the monthly subsidiary is approximately $90,000.00. Vice
Mayor Jaskiewicz inquired how long Reliance Management has been affiliated with the
property and Mr. Hartman stated about three years.
Mayor Pro Tem Tillman inquired what the total cost was on the property each year? Mr.
Hartman stated that the total operating costs per year is $5,500 per unit, which includes
taxes and insurance. Mr. Hartman stated that the monthly mortgage payments are
approximately $46,000 per month.
Mayor Taylor asked if current management ever discussed the conditions of Boynton
Terrace with the owners and were the owners informed that they were not providing
adequate funds to keep the property up? Mayor Taylor stated that for three years as
the management company the property went downhill on a steady basis, but Heritage
now wants to become owners of the property, and as owners will turn the property
around. Therefore, Mayor Taylor questioned why the City would pick this particular
company over any other company due to the management of the past three years? Mr.
Hartman stated his company has no control over the amount of money that can be
spent. However, when Heritage becomes the owner of the property, Heritage can set
the budget and referred the Commission to other properties that are owned by Heritage.
Mayor Taylor inquired what commitment was needed from the City? Mr. Pace referred
the Commission to the Options listed in their brochure.
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· Option#I:
The City would purchase the property and would be 100% owner of the
property. City could manage the property. Heritage would be the
consultant to the property and would file the tax credit application on
behalf of the City. Heritage would do all the due diligence and make
sure everything is in place. The only thing remaining is that the City
would have to assist with the $1,000,000 contribution. The value to the
City is that the City would have the cash flow and the residuals.
However, the City as owner, will have liability. Mr. Pace does not
recommend this option.
Option #2:
The City would become joint venturer with Heritage and would have no
liability, except in the event of a law suit, the City would probably be
made a party, since the City is 49% owner of the general partnership.
The City would receive 49% of any residuals that the general partner
receives. The $1,000,000 contribution would still be required.
Heritage would be the manager and general partner which would own
51% and the City would own 49%.
Option #3:
The City would have 0% ownership and would have no liability. The
City must still assist in securing the $1,000,000 in contributions. The
City would assist in the purchase of the three parcels of land and close
off 7th Street behind the church parking. There are other non-cash
contributions that will be covered later in the meeting. The City would
receive no cash flow, but the City would become a consultant to the
project and there could be fees paid through the tax credit program to
consultants.
Mr. Pace stated that the only way this project could work in his opinion was through the
tax credit program. Mr. Pace stated that once all of the rehabilitation has taken place,
the maintenance should be zero, except for normal wear and tear. Mr. Pace stated the
only projects that Heritage is involved in are tax credit projects and thanked the
Commission for giving him the opportunity to make Heritage's presentation.
Ms. Denahan inquired if Heritage has ever been involved in a project of such a
deteriorated state as Boynton Terrace? Also, Commissioner Denahan inquired if the
property is renovated, would it continue to be subsidized housing. Mr. Hartman stated
that under the tax credit program, there is a land use restriction, which is recorded
against the property that states the property must remain Iow income housing for a
minimum of 50 years. Mr. Hartman stated that their project at Augusta Hills was a
project of the same type as Boynton Terrace. Mr. Hartman also spoke about other
properties that his company has rehabilitated. Mr. Hartman stated that their properties
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have a turnover rate of 35%, whereas the national average is 50% turnover, which
points to satisfied residents.
There were no other questions and Mr. Hartman thanked the Commission for their
consideration.
Mr. Hawkins presented the options that staff is recommending, based upon preliminary
review of the information furnished. Mr. Hawkins stated that staff has not had an
opportunity to review current cash flow on the property and Mr. Hawkins stated that the
City would want to review these figures before any final decision is made. Ms. Reese
presented a chart setting forth what the City's $1 million contribution could be towards
this project, which would represent "governmental participation".
Mr. Hawkins explained the different types of contributions allowed under the tax credit
applications, which could be considered "governmental participation". Mr. Hawkins
stated that the grant dollars and Tlr dollars would be used as the funding source.
Mr. Hawkins continued to point out the different areas that the City can contribute to the
project, which could be impact fees, permit fees, and utility fees that would be required
for renovation. Mr. Hawkins noted that the City would in fact have to pay the utility fees
and stated that these fees would be paid by CRA funds. Mr. Hawkins also suggested
that the City could provide landscaping. The City could also purchase all the necessary
parcels of property required for the project and donate the land to Heritage. Mr.
Hawkins stated that all figures presented this evening are preliminary. Therefore taking
all these factors into consideration the City's total contribution would be $196,119 or
rounded off to $200,000. This would be applied to the $1 million and for the remainder
of the funds; the City would partner with Heritage and apply for those remaining funds
from Palm Beach County for CBG funds.
Mr. Hawkins referred the Commissioners to the figures on the screen and pointed out
where the funds would be available from. (Attached to the minutes as Staff
Recommendation, Option #3 From Proposal for reference.) Mr. Hawkins pointed out
the CRA funds that are available and the categories in which the funds are being used.
Mr. Hawkins pointed out that the CRA funds have been slated for projects already
determined, but it was possible they could be utilized for other purposes within the CRA
area.
Mayor Taylor inquired if the County would still be open to contributing additional CBDG
funds at this time? Mr. Hawkins stated that Heritage has received a preliminary letter
from the County indicating that Heritage should move forward with their application. Mr.
Hawkins pointed out that in the past the County was managing this property under the
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Housing Authority and staff is recommending that the City move forward with Option 3.
Vice Mayor Jaskiewicz inquired since the owner of the property receives $90,000 in
monthly subsidies, what would the City receive for its share of the City's cost in the
project? Mr. Hawkins stated that since the property is not tax exempt, the City would
not receive any revenue from the project, other than the ad valorem taxes currently paid
on the property, but the value of the property would increase when the renovation is
completed.
Commissioner Titcomb inquired how much of the police budget was spent on this
property, due to the high incidence of calls to the property? Chief Marshal Gage stated
he did not have any figures, but noted the calls were twenty times higher to this area
than other comparable areas in the City.
Mayor Taylor noted that there are three options presented this evening, but barring that,
nothing is going to change on the property. Mr. Hawkins stated that if the property were
not sold to Heritage, the City would have to exercise its authority and require that
certain improvements be made to the property. However, the current owners have given
no indication that they would voluntarily make any improvements to the property and in
fact, there has been no conversations held with the current owners.
Mayor Taylor noted that Mark Raymond, the City's Bond Counsel was present and
asked Mr. Raymond if he had any comments he would like to make to the Commission.
Mr. Raymond indicated he did not think the City would be issuing bonds in this project.
Mr. Raymond questioned the statement that the City would "receive a consultant fee" if
the City made a contribution of land or cash to the project and asked if this were
permissible under the Florida Housing Finance Corporation Rules, as well as under the
IRC. If this was permissible, Mr. Raymond asked what the percentage of any fee would
be of the City's initial contribution?
Mr. Hartman stated that this would be determined under city law and would have to be
addressed by the City Attorneys. The FHFC allows a developer fee to be paid out of
the project to the people who make the project happen and that fee could be paid to
consultants, which is a limited percentage. Mr. Hartman stated there was nothing in the
rules that he was aware of that would prohibit a governmental entity from receiving a
fee.
Mayor Pro Tem Tillman asked how the County would view the actions that the City has
already initiated in this project? Mr. Hawkins stated that the County would have to
acknowledge that the City is doing the maximum possible based upon the financial
sitUation of the complex. Also, Mr. Hawkins stated the City is a new entitlement city and
will be using CRA funds for its contribution in demonstrating its support. Mr. Hawkins
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felt the City is making a tremendous commitment and the County has a history with the
property for management, as well as with the original financing.
City Manager Willis noted that in the line item for revenue, reference was made to
1998/99 under the SHIP Program that there is estimated $300,000 in annual revenue
and is under the line item "infill construction". City Manager Willis asked if those dollars
were specifically committed under the Program? Also, City Manager Willis inquired if
these funds could be used for multi-family purposes? Mr. Hawkins stated that it has
been City policy not to grant these funds for multi-family development and that current
SHIP funds are allocated toward renovation and infill, and applications are currently
being processed. Also, Mr. Hawkins stated these funds would be used for down-
payment assistance, acquisition of properties for renovation and potential infill
programs.
City Manager Willis stated that this project would be an appropriate infill use and even
though the current project is multi-family, it should not bias the use of the funds for land
acquisition and that one of the City's goals is to eventually facilitate single family home
ownership. Therefore, City Manager Willis stated that land acquisition would not violate
the City's policy in any way. Mr. Hawkins stated it was important that a precedent for
other multi-family homes not be set.
Mayor Pro Tem Tillman stated that we currently have a viable, infill program in place
and would not want to see it altered and that something should be put in place in terms
of transitional housing.
Mr. Hawkins stated that 65% of the SHIP funds must go to single family home
construction, which is set forth in the State Statutes.
Mayor Taylor inquired how the $1 million contribution would be attained. Mr. Hawkins
stated that based upon the current proposal, the City would contribute 20% and the
County would contribute 80%.
Mayor Taylor inquired if the Commission agreed to Option #3 and all the necessary
steps were taken and approved what would the time frame be to accomplish the
project? Mr. Hartman stated the application would be submitted by January 7, 1999;
the State would formally award the credits in May; within sixty/ninety days a
construction loan agreement could close. Therefore the money should be in place by
August 1999 to begin rehabilitation. However, Mr. Hartman stated it would be known by
March whether or not they have been awarded the tax credits, and there are numerous
companies that buy tax credits. These companies would advance money for the
· project. Therefore, permitting applications could begin in March. The tax credits do not
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begin until the rehabilitation is completed. It is estimated the project could be completed
in 14 months.
Mayor Taylor asked if staff had pursued any other firms that might be interested in this
type of project. Mr. Hawkins stated they have not. Mr. Hawkins stated that there are
other companies in Palm Beach County that do rehabilitation and could be approached
with this project.
Vice Mayor Jaskiewicz inquired due to the cost of rehabilitating this property, was it ever
considered to raze part of the property and rebuild new? Mr. Hartman stated they have
not looked at razing the property, since there is a mortgage holder owed $4.9 million on
the property. Mr. Hartman stated it would be easier to rehabilitate, rather than recreate
the entire infrastructure. Also, Mr. Hartman was not sure if legally, under the bond
structure, if the property could be razed and that option has not been looked at.
Vice Mayor Jaskiewicz raised the question of who actually owns the property since one
of the forms states the property has been owned since 1982 by one particular party, and
this evening you indicated there were new owners? Mr. Hartman stated there was a
change in the general partner and the old general partner was replaced in 1996.
Commissioner Denahan inquired what Heritage's history was as far as maintaining
ownership once the property has been renovated? According to Mr. Hartman, under
Hedtage's general partnership agreement, they are the general partners responsible for
up keeping the property for 15 years.
Commissioner Titcomb inquired who the major mortgagor on the property was? Mr.
Hartman stated he did look at the documents, but does not know the name of the
lender. Mr, Hartman stated in all probability they would be bondholders and a trustee
holds the mortgage. Commissioner Titcomb inquired if there was default on the
property, would the property be foreclosed upon in the same manner as other properties
and Mr. Hartman stated it would be the same.
Commissioner Titcomb inquired of staff what the impact of a foreclosure could have
upon the residents? Also, Commissioner Titcomb stated that other companies in the
area should be looked at as well. Commissioner Titcomb stated his allegiance was to
the residents of the property and to the City and how the problem can be solved, rather
than which company performs the work. Commissioner Titcomb inquired what would
happen if the property were in fact foreclosed upon?
Mr. Hawkins pointed out that HUD always financed the property and there are 14 years
remaining on the HUD contract, but 22 years remain on the bond refinancing. The
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federal government has the responsibility to the tenants who reside at the property and
HUD maintains its original intent for the property which is to provide and maintain
affordable, Iow income housing. Therefore, HUD has to continue their involvement with
the property, as it would also be HUD's responsibility to relocate the residents in the
event something happens to the property.
Mayor Pro Tem Tillman stated that HUD currently pays $90,000 per month in
subsidiaries and shouldn't HUD be notified of the current conditions of the property and
ask them to step in and rectify the living conditions. Mr. Hawkins stated that this should
be addressed also and that HUD should be approached to determine how much of this
situation they are aware of. Mr. Hawkins stated that the West Palm Beach Housing
Authority is the contract administrator for HUD on this property.
Mayor Pro Tem Tillman stated that HUD should know where their money is going and
that they are giving money to an owner who does not want to own up to his
responsibilities. This is something HUD should become aware of. Mr. Hawkins inquired
if there were HUD inspection documents available and Mr. Hartman stated they were
available. Mr. Hawkins stated they should be looked at.
Mayor Taylor raised concerns that nothing could take place for at least a year and
another year for construction to begin. Mayor Taylor stated that HUD should be
informed immediately that the living conditions at Boynton Terrace are unacceptable.
Vice Mayor Jaskiewicz inquired if a representative from HUD could again act as an.
intermediary as was done in the past? Mr. Hawkins stated this issue will be brought to
the table and that assurances from HUD should be obtained that HUD will hold the
owners accountable for their actions. Vice Mayor Jaskiewicz indicated she would like
the plan presented to HUD for their recommendations.
Commissioner Titcomb inquired from a financial point, if it would be better to relocate
the tenants, raze the buildings and build brand new affordable housing. Mr. Hawkins
stated this avenue could be explored and that there is a possibility of locating two or
three partners for this type of project.
Mr. Pace noted that if it was determined to relocate the 89 households at Boynton
Terrace, the people would not be able to pay rent anywhere else, since their rent is
totally subsidized. Mark Raymond stated he felt speaking to HUD could be
counterproductive and might cause the contract to be terminated. Mr. Raymond stated
that the HALF Contract provides great leverage and is the source of payment of debt
se~ice on the bonds. Mr. Raymond stated that the owner of the project should be
contacted in order that more money can be redirected to the project, rather than the out-
13
MEETING MINUTES
CITY COMMISSION WORKSHOP
BOYNTON BEACH, FLORIDA
SEPTEMBER 2, 1998
of-state partners. If the HALF Contract is terminated, the bondholder will not be paid
back. if this happens, the bondholder may not be able to cause the money to come
back to the project. Mr. Raymond stated these types of situations have occurred
elsewhere in Dade County and this could cause the project to be shut down.
Mayor Taylor inquired if there were any more questions. There being none, the meeting
properly adjourned at 8:40 p.m.
CITY OF BOYNTON BEACH
7
ATTEST;
Cit~'Clerk
Recording Secretary
(three tapes)
Mayor Pro T_em___.__.~
Commissioner
14
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
OPTION #3 FROM PROPOSAL.
CITY TO PROVIDE LIMITED CASH
CONTRIBUTIONS TOWARD THE $1 MILLION DOLLARS
THAT IS REQUESTED.
[ HERITAGE DEVELOPMENT
PROPOSED COMMUNITY CONTRIBUTION CHECKLIST
COST
Waiver of zoning fees N/A
Waiver of building permit fees ~ $ 44,144
Waiver of impact fees N/A
Waiver of tipping fees at landfill $ 25,500
Donation of dumpster during rehab $ 10,625
Waiver of water deposit fee N/A
Waiver of construction meter fee $ 250
.¥aiver of extension of water/sewer lines from meter to Community Center $ 500
Waiver of inspection fees N/A*
Donation of landscaping materials for site** $ 50,000
Purchase of property $ 65,000.
TOTAL $ 196,019
*Unless special inspections are requested
**Estimate only as no specifics have been given as to type of landscaping.
CITY OF BOYNTON BEACH
POTENTIAL FUNDING SOURCES
1997/98
CDBG SHIP CRA
Anticipated Re'venues $ 569,000 $ 300,000 $ 606,793
Adopted Expenses:
Administrative Cost 113,800 30,000 32,660
Purchase Sr. Center 275,200
Land Acquisition (Parks) 50,000
Job Training Program 25,000
Economic Opportunity Program 25,000
Summer Camp Scholarships 30,000
Family Development Services 50,000
Housing Program Agency 25,000
Home Improvements 140,000
Infill Housing Construction 180,000 60,000
-Land Acquisition (Housing) 90,000
Improvements -Land/Bldgs. 274,133
Paint up/Fix up Program 75,000
'$ 569,000 $ 300,000 $ 606,793
1998~99
CDBG SHIP CRA
Anticipated Revenues $ 569,000 $ 300,000 $ 587,150
Proposed Expenses:
Administrative Cost 113,800 30,000 30,834
Purchase Sr. Center 245,200
Park development - 50,000
Improvements- Land/Bldgs. 121,316
Family Development Services 65,000
New Business Technical Support 25,000
Transitional Assistance Welfare to Work 25,000
Camp Scholarships 15,000
Paint up/Fix up Program 75,000
Infill Construction 30,000 270,000 60,000
Home Improvements 190,000
Housing Program Agency 25,000
Land Acquisition 85,000
$ 569,000 $ 300,000 $ 587,150
CURRENT APPROVED FUNDING THAT HAS BEEN SUBMITTED AND APPROVED BY HUD.
FUNDS THAT CAN BE REAPPROPRIATED. HOWEVER ANY REAPPROPRIATION WILL
REDUCE MONIES AVAILABLE TO SPEND IN TH E DOWNTOWN AREA.