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Minutes 09-18-07 MINUTES OF THE CITY COMMISSION MEETING HELD IN THE COMMISSION CHAMBERS, CITY HALL, BOYNTON BEACH, FLORIDA, ON TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 18, 2007 AT 6:30 P.M. Present: Jerry Taylor, Mayor Commissioner Ron Weiland Commissioner Mack McCray Commissioner Carl McKoy Kurt Bressner, City Manager James Cherof, City Attorney Janet Prainito, City Clerk Absent: Jose Rodriguez, Vice Mayor I. OPENINGS: a. Call to Order - Mayor Jerry Taylor b. Invocation by Father Richard Floreck - St. Mark Catholic Church c. Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag led by Mayor Jerry Taylor Mayor Taylor called the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m. Father Richard Floreck gave the invocation followed by the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag led by Mayor Jerry Taylor. D. Agenda Approval: 1. Additions, Deletions, Corrections 2. Adoption Motion Commissioner Weiland moved to approve the agenda. Commissioner McCray seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously. 1. Second Budget Public Hearing for Fiscal Year 2007/08 Budget 2. Proposed Resolution No. R07-10S Rate for Fiscal Year 2007/08 Re: Adopting the Final Millage 3. Proposed Resolution No. R07-106 for Fiscal Year 2007/08 Re: Adopting the Final Budget Attorney Cherof read Proposed Resolution No. R07-10S by title only. 1 Meeting Minutes Regular City Commission Boynton Beach, FL September 18, 2007 Mayor Taylor opened the issue for public hearing. No one coming forward, Mayor Taylor closed the public hearing. Motion Commissioner Weiland moved to approve Proposed Resolution No R07-10S. Commissioner McCray seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously. Attorney Cherof read Proposed Resolution No. R07-106 by title only. Mayor Taylor opened the issue for public hearing. Herb Suss, Quail Run, 1711 Wood Fern Drive, speaking for himself, suggested the Commission should cut back on their discretionary funds, salaries and expenses in order to save the Tennis Pro and Recreation Manager positions that were being eliminated. He also suggested the holiday extravaganza could be scaled down to save monies. Mr. Suss recalled the City had a deficit budget several years ago then there was an increase in the revenue. Mr. Bressner responded the general fund had a deficit balance in the past and the Commission authorized using unobligated funds. However, by the end of the fiscal year the funds were not needed. The general fund budget has been balanced since that time without the use of any other funds. No one else coming forward, Mayor Taylor closed the public hearing. Commissioner McCray developed the fact that out of more than 900 employees, only two employees were losing their jobs and they were being offered other positions. Mr. Bressner noted one of the employees had accepted another position and the other is pending. Commissioner McCray also noted although monies are budgeted, the funds do not have to be spent. Commissioner Weiland commented all the advisory board members are volunteers and once a year a board recognition dinner is held for their benefit. He suggested the $12,000 budget be taken from the surplus of the general fund and restore the dinner for the board members. Commissioner McCray felt it should be a policy decision for the newly elected Commission. Mayor Taylor and Commissioner McKoy concurred with Commissioner McCray. Commissioner Weiland agreed and suggested the discussion be placed under X. Future Agenda for after the election. Motion Commissioner Weiland moved to approve Proposed Resolution R07-106. McCray seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously. Commissioner 2 Meeting Minutes Regular City Commission Boynton Beach, FL September 18, 2007 II. OTHER: A. Informational Items by Members of the City Commission Commissioner McCray thanked everyone, on behalf of his family, for their acts of kindness, phone calls, emails, visitation or floral arrangements during the recent loss of his stepfather. He appreciated that the Commission could put their differences aside and reach out to each other. He especially thanked Mr. Bressner and the Boynton Beach Police Department for their outstanding job. Commissioner McCray was very grateful. Mayor Taylor commended the recent efforts of the Boynton Beach Police Department in shutting down a dog fighting ring. He hoped the City would be able to prosecute those involved to the fullest extent of the law. Commissioner McCray announced the st. John Missionary Baptist Church would be celebrating its 99th anniversary on Sunday, September 23, 2007. He invited everyone to the 7:45 a.m. service or the 10:45 a.m. service. III. ANNOUNCEMENTS, COMMMUNITY & SPECIAL EVENTS & PRESENTATIONS A. Announcements: None B. Community and Special Events: None C. Presentations: None IV. PUBLIC AUDIENCE: INDIVIDUAL SPEAKERS WILL BE LIMITED TO 3 MINUTE PRESENTATIONS (at the discretion of the Chair, this 3 minute allowance may need to be adjusted depending on the level of business coming before the City Commission> Mario Ferrizoli questioned why there was no longer a left turn allowed from Boynton Beach Boulevard to Railroad Avenue along the tracks. He advised it was having an adverse affect on the businesses along Railroad Avenue. Mr. Ferrizoli and his attorney had been attempting to get a response from Engineering. Mr. Bressner responded a letter had been sent to Mr. Tomberg, his attorney from the City Attorney. Attorney Cherof agreed to provide Mr. Ferrizoli with a copy of the letter to his attorney, Mr. Tomberg. Richard Frazier, Boynton Auto Clinic, was also a business owner along Railroad Avenue. He understood Mr. Ferrizoli's frustration and explained how the lack of a left turn from Boynton 3 Meeting Minutes Regular City Commission Boynton Beach, FL September 18, 2007 Beach Boulevard had changed how his business operates. He also claimed to have lost revenue. Mr. Frazier complained the business owners were never notified that a change would be made. It was his opinion his customers were now put in harm's way by having to make an illegal u-turn to reach Railroad Avenue. He had also requested some type of signage be erected to indicate the businesses were there. The current signage was inadequate in his view. Mayor Taylor explained the State had made the changes because the safety concerns outweighed the other concerns. Commissioner McCray noted it was not a policy decision made by the Commission. He agreed the signage could be improved and hoped a resolution could be obtained. Mr. Frazier agreed the City had responded quickly to his inquiries. Mayor Taylor suggested contacting the State to see if there could be any alternatives agreed upon. Mr. Bressner explained the proximity to the railroad crossing was the reason for the barrier and it would also prohibit vehicles from crossing between the gates. Mr. Frazier contended a left hand turn lane would not circumvent the safety issue. The changes were a part of the ongoing improvements to Boynton Beach Boulevard. Mr. Ferrizoli understood the City of Boynton Beach had requested the change. Mr. Bressner noted the State Department of Transportation had been resurfacing and improving Boynton Beach Boulevard. Jeff Livergood, Director of Public Works and Engineering, agreed the City had been contacted by the State and had discussed access control along Boynton Beach Boulevard. Changes were made to the median in several locations between Federal Highway and I-95. Any intersection near a railroad crossing would have safety issues. Quiet zones were also being requested as an enhancement to the area requiring extended medians and quad gates. At this point, the medians are being installed at no cost to the City of Boynton Beach. Public hearings on the project had been advertised by the State and held at Galaxy Elementary School. Mr. Bressner reiterated the resurfacing was not a City project. Michael Bond, owner of Pioneer Auto, was also facing the same problems along with the other business owners and they could be forced out of business. He hoped something could be done soon. Mayor Taylor advised staff would check with the State and see if any other options were available. Tom Ruffini, 504 SW 7th Street, reported national statistical data relating to the younger population and pedestrian and bicyclist fatalities. He pleaded with the City to reconsider the entire Ocean 95 Plaza project or defer construction on the project until an alternate truck route was completed. Joe Green thanked the members of the Commission who had made contributions from their discretionary funds for the International Youth Summit held in Birmingham, Alabama. Victor Norfus, 261 N. Palm Drive, presented Mayor Taylor, Vice Mayor Rodriguez and Commissioner McKoy with certificates of appreciation for their support of the Carolyn Simms 4 Meeting Minutes Regular City Commission Boynton Beach, FL September 18, 2007 Freedom Riders. Mayor Taylor thanked Mr. Norfus and Mr. Green for their feedback on the use of the funds. Commissioner McKoy commented projects that assist the youth are very important and it is the financial support of the Commission from the available funds that make the projects successful. Minister Collins, 9207 Pinehurst Drive, asked for continued support of the youth in the Boynton Beach area and efforts to address the issues that face the local community and youth. Grover Jones, 628 Lakeside Harbor Drive, inquired if the public could be notified at the beginning of each meeting of any items that would be postponed. Mr. Jones also inquired if there was a time limit for continuation of Public Hearings. Mayor Taylor responded each request would be considered and items could be ultimately eliminated from the agenda. Matt Burger, 221 SW 6th Street, purported the Commissioners were not totally aware when voting on a recent resolution, that the default truck route for the Ocean 95 Plaza project would run directly through the Lake Boynton Estates neighborhood without any enforcement of weight limits. Mayor Taylor reported he was not aware of any truck sizes that would be eliminated from the route. Rod Silverio, 10 Vela ire Drive, inquired when the sidewalk on the south side of Old Boynton Road would be restored at the intersection of Velaire Drive. Mayor Taylor advised a timeline would be obtained. Brian Miller, Chair of the Community Relations Board, announced a joint meeting with the Community Relations Board, the Youth Violence Prevention Project and the Police Department, on September 26th in City Chambers. He also reported the city-wide Pride in Boynton Beautification project would be held on October 19th. A large group of students from Boynton Beach High School volunteered to assist in the effort. He stressed volunteers were needed. Sergio Casaine, 13 Meadows Park Lane, announced in November there would be a Youth Congress meeting at Hester Center. It would be a Christian based affair with youth from all over the United States participating. Mr. Casaine requested financial support from the Commission for the event. He noted the Police Department and the Police Athletic League would be assisting with the event. Mr. Casaine advised he had heard the Boynton Beach Police Department was doing an outstanding job in the area of youth and violence. He congratulated the Chief of Police and the Police Department for their excellent efforts. Commissioner McCray noted the fiscal year for such requests had just ended. Herb Suss, 1711 Wood Fern Drive, expressed his appreciation for the efforts of Commissioner McCray and Commissioner McKoy during their tenure on the Commission. Mr. Suss did not agree with term limits for Commissioners. He thanked both Commissioners for their statesmanship and wished them well in their future endeavors. He hoped the new Commission would establish a Code of Ethics. Commissioner McCray thanked Mr. Suss for his remarks. 5 Meeting Minutes Regular City Commission Boynton Beach, FL September 18, 2007 Mayor Taylor closed the public audience. v. ADMINISTRATIVE: A. Appointments Appointment To Be Made Length of Term Board Exoiration Date Bldg. Bd of Adj & Appeals Reg 33 mo term to 12/09 Tabled Bldg. Bd of Adj & Appeals Alt 9 mo term to 12/07 Tabled (3) Bldg. Bd of Adj & Appeals Alt 9 mo term to 12/07 Tabled (2) Code Compliance Board Alt 9 mo term to 12/07 Code Compliance Board Alt 9 mo term to 12/07 Community Relations Board Alt 9 mo term to 12/07 Tabled (2) Community Relations Board Alt 9 mo term to 12/07 Tabled (2) Education & Youth Advisory Board Reg 21 mo term to 12/08 II McCray Mayor Taylor I Weiland II McCray III Rodriguez I Weiland II McCray Weiland Motion Commissioner Weiland appointed Carol Lundquist as a regular member of the Education and Youth Advisory Board. Commissioner McCray seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously. II McCray Education & Youth Advisory Board Alt 9 mo term to 12/07 III Rodriguez Education & Youth Advisory Board Alt 9 mo term to 12/07 IV McKoy Education & Youth Advisory Board Stu 9 mo term to 12/07 Mayor Taylor Education & Youth Advisory Board Stu N/V 9 mo term to 12/07 III Rodriguez Recreation & Parks Board Alt 9 mo term to 12/07 III Rodriguez Veterans Advisory Commission Alt 9 mo term to 12/07 IV McKoy Veterans Advisory Commission Reg 33 mo term to 12/09 Mayor Taylor Veterans Advisory Commission Alt 9 mo term to 12/07 Motion Commissioner McCray moved to table all other appointments. Commissioner McKoy seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously. B. Accept the resignation of Edward Hillery, Jr., an alternate member of the Planning and Development Board. 6 Meeting Minutes Regular City Commission Boynton Beach, FL September 18, 2007 Motion Commissioner McCray moved to accept the resignation of Edward Hillery as a member of the Planning and Development Board. Commissioner McKoy seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously. Mayor Taylor extended the Commission's thanks for Mr. Hillery's participation. VI. CONSENT AGENDA: Matters in this section of the Agenda are proposed and recommended by the City Manager for "Consent Agenda" approval of the action indicated in each item, with all of the accompanying material to become a part of the Public Record and subject to staff comments. A. Minutes 1. Agenda Preview Conference - August 31, 2007 2. Regular City Commission - September 4, 2007 B. Bids and Purchase Contracts - Recommend Approval - All expenditures are approved in the 2006-2007 Adopted Budget. 1. Approve a contract with Arbor Tree & Land, Inc. D/B/A ATL Disaster Recovery. The City will piggyback on the contract from the City of Port st. Lucie for various services that may be needed for disaster recovery. The contract is to be utilized on an "AS NEEDED BASIS". All expenses will be reimbursed through FEMA; therefore, there is no expenditure. The contract period is from September 1, 2007 through August 31, 2009. (Proposed Resolution No. R07-107) 2. Award the "Eighteen Month Contract for Property and Casualty Insurance Program", RFP #068-171O-07/JA to two (2) vendors (Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. and Wells Fargo) with an annual expenditure of $2,258,448. (Proposed Resolution No. R07-10B) 3. Approve a contract with West Construction, Inc. of Lake Worth, Florida for Bid #060-2730-07/0D "CONSTRUCTION IMPROVEMENTS AT JAYCEE PARK" in the amount of $849,685.86 plus 10% contingency of $85,000. (Proposed Resolution No. R07-109) 4. Award Bid #065-2821-07/JA, "REPAIRS AND EMERGENCY SERVICES FOR WATER DISTRIBUTION, WASTEWATER COLLECTION, AND STORM WATER UTILITY SYSTEMS" to two (2) contractors on an as needed basis. Contractors are Chaz Equipment Company, Inc., and Madsen/Barr Corporation. 7 Meeting Minutes Regular City Commission Boynton Beach, FL September 18, 2007 C. Resolutions 1. Proposed Resolution No. R07-110 RE: Approving the appointment of the Supervisor of Elections to handle and canvas all City absentee ballots for the November 6, 2007 General Election, and if necessary, a Run-Off Election which would be held on November 20, 2007, to represent the Municipal Canvassing Board at all Logic and Accuracy tests and certify election results. 2. Proposed Resolution No. R07-111 RE: Authorizing the application and agreement for the Library State Aid Grant. 3. Proposed Resolution No. R07-112 RE: Authorizing the implementation of "Year 3" of the pay and classification study conducted by MGT of America for fiscal year (FY) 2007/2008. 4. Proposed Resolution No. R07-113 RE: Dedicating City owned property on N.W. 4th Avenue (PCN #08-43-45-20-08-000- 0260) as a public right-of-way and surplus property for disposal. 5. Proposed Resolution No. R07-114 RE: Approving and authorizing execution of an Interlocal Agreement between the City of Boynton Beach and the Town of Briny Breezes providing for daily police services to the Town of Briny Breezes through the City of Boynton Beach's Police Department. D. Approve the updated Library Long Range Plan for 2007-2010. Commissioner McCray pulled Item V1.D. for discussion. E. Authorize the Boynton Beach City Library to donate de-selected books and audiovisual materials to the Friends of the Boynton Beach City Library. Revenues will be donated back to the Library and used to purchase new library materials. F. Authorize the use of $1,000 to the Boynton Beach High School from Mayor Taylor's Community Investment Fund. G. Authorize the use of $1,000 to the Boynton Beach Headstart Program from Mayor Taylor's Community Investment Funds. H. Authorize the use of $3,000 for the Police Athletic League from Commissioner McCray's Community Investment Funds. 1. Authorize the use of $2,000 for the Police Athletic League from Commissioner McKoy's Community Investment Funds. 8 Meeting Minutes Regular City Commission Boynton Beach, FL September 18, 2007 J. Authorize the use of $2,000 for MAD DADS of Greater Boynton Beach from Commissioner McKoy's Community Investment Funds. K. Authorize the use of $2,000 for the Boynton Regional Symphony Orchestra from Commissioner McKoy's Community Investment Funds. L. Authorize the use of $1,000 for the Boynton Beach High School from Commissioner McKoy's Community Investment Funds. M. Authorize the use of $1,300 for the Caridad Center from Vice Mayor Rodriguez's Community Investment Funds. N. Authorize the use of $1,000 for the CDC Peacemaker Youth Program from Vice Mayor Rodriguez's Community Investment Funds. O. Authorize the use of $584 for Save Old Boynton High from Vice Mayor Rodriguez's Community Investment Funds. P. Authorize the use of $1,300 for the Woman's Club from Vice Mayor Rodriguez's Community Investment Funds. Q. Authorize the use of $1,300 for the Poinciana Elementary School Observatory Fund from Vice Mayor Rodriguez's Community Investment Funds. R. Authorize the use of $1,300 for the Boynton Beach High School from Vice Mayor Rodriguez's Community Investment Funds. S. Authorize the use of $1,300 for the Boynton Isles Neighborhood Association from Vice Mayor Rodriguez's Community Investment Funds. Motion Commissioner McKoy moved to approve the Consent Agenda with modification. Commissioner McCray seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously. VI.D. Approve the updated Library Long Range Plan for 2007-2010. Commissioner McCray requested the Library Director give an overview of the plan. Craig Clark, Library Director, explained the long range plan is a three year rolling plan updated each year as required for grant applications. It provides staff a road map or guide to provide the quality of services to the community. It is the basis of the annual goals and objectives. Motion Commissioner McCray moved to approve Item VI.D. Commissioner Weiland seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously. 9 Meeting Minutes Regular City Commission Boynton Beach, FL September 18, 2007 VII. CODE COMPLIANCE & LEGAL SETTLEMENTS: None VIII. PUBLIC HEARING: 7:00 P.M. OR AS SOON THEREAFTER AS THE AGENDA PERMITS The City Commission will conduct these public hearings in its dual capacity as Local Planning Agency and City Commission. A. Project: Agent: Owner: Location: Descri ption: HARBOR CAY (SPTE 07-006) Sid E. von Rospeunt, Managing Member for Harbor Cay, LLC Harbor Cay, LLC East side Federal Highway; approximately 160 feet north of Gateway Boulevard. Request for a one (1) year site plan time extension for Harbor Cay (NWsP 06-011) approved on May 2, 2006, from May 2, 2007 to May 2, 2008. (Tabled to September 18, 2007) Motion Commissioner McCray moved to remove Item VIlLA. from the table. Commissioner McKoy seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously. Attorney Cherof administered an oath to all those intending to testify and gave a brief explanation of the procedure to be followed. Kathleen Zeitler, Planner, located the property and reviewed the staff report for the Infill Planned Unit Development for 24 townhomes. The applicant had shown a good faith effort. She noted the underground utilities had to be reconfigured which delayed the platting. The construction plan addresses the 85 conditions of approval. The project is subject to the Art in Public Places ordinance and the developer had paid the capacity fee and renewal fee. Staff recommended approval for an extension to May 2, 2008 with all conditions of approval to be addressed prior to the permitting process. Mayor Taylor questioned if the capacity reservation fee had been paid. Ms. Zeitler noted it had been paid; however, it would need to be renewed and the same amount would be due again. Sid E. von Rospeunt, Managing Member for Harbor Cay, LLC, apologized for the delay and conflict in scheduling. He noted there had been delays especially with the lack of water pressure in the area, easement disputes and the declining market conditions. Mr. von Rospeunt did have some difficulty with paying the capacity reservation fee again as his counsel had advised the development order did not require the payment. Mayor Taylor opened the issue for public hearing. 10 Meeting Minutes Regular City Commission Boynton Beach, FL September 18, 2007 Bonnie Jones, 628 Lakeside Harbor Drive, questioned the notice and posting requirements and was assured by Attorney Cherof that the posting and legal notices were sufficient. Ms. Zeitler agreed with Attorney Cherof and noted the applicant had re-noticed the adjacent property owners twice. Ms. Jones contended many neighbors were not present because they were not aware the item was on the agenda for hearing. She advised there was not a good relationship between the developer and the adjoining homeowners. The private road to some houses would now be a public road through a townhouse development. There was also concern regarding the construction workers in front of the homes without any privacy wall or fence for the homeowners during the construction phase. Ms. Jones believed the safety of the children and the value of the existing homes were in jeopardy. Commissioner McCray pointed out only two residents had appeared before the CRA when the matter was heard. Mr. von Rospeunt advised there was ongoing litigation pending against the Joneses in reference to the gate issue. He contended the landowners would be the beneficiaries of a very nice road to access their properties. He also acknowledged there were ongoing conflicts with the neighbors of the development. Mayor Taylor confirmed there would be substantial buffering. Mr. von Rospeunt stressed the development would include million dollar townhouses. Ms. Zeitler noted that conditions of approval 61, 62, 64, 65, 70, 76, 78, 80 and 85 related to buffering and landscaping required. Mr. von Rospeunt agreed with all 85 conditions of approval. Grover Jones, 628 Lakeside Harbor Drive, disputed Mr. von Rospeunt's comments relating to the gate and pending litigation. He alleged that the developer was not a good neighbor and refused to cooperate with the area homeowners on several issues. Mayor Taylor pointed out the developer was in agreement with all 85 conditions of approval and had agreed to pay the fee again. Motion Commissioner Weiland moved to approve Item VIlLA. Commissioner McKoy seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously. B. Project: Agent: Owners: Location: Description: 444 SW 7th Court (Di Nizo - fence height) (ZNCV 07-004) Philip and Dorothy Di Nizo Philip and Dorothy Di Nizo 444 SW ih Court Request for relief from the City of Boynton Beach Land Development Regulations, Chapter 2, Zoning, Section 4,).1, limiting maximum fence height to four (4) feet along both road frontages on a corner lot when the fence is located in front of the building line, to allow a 2-foot variance, and a six (6) foot high fence on property zoned R-1-A Single-family residential. 11 Meeting Minutes Regular City Commission Boynton Beach, FL September 18, 2007 Attorney Cherof administered an oath to all those intending to testify. Dorothy Di Nizo, owner, distributed a packet of information including pictures in support of their request. A copy of the information is available in the City Clerk's office. Mayor Taylor recessed the meeting at 8:09 p.m. Mayor Taylor reconvened the meeting at 8:16 p.m. Ms. Zeitler located the property and reviewed the staff report. She noted the original fence had been installed without permits. Special conditions did exist that were peculiar to the subject property. The fence was situated on the property line. Staff recommended approval of the request. Mayor Taylor opened the issue for public hearing. No one coming forward, Mayor Taylor closed the public hearing. Motion Commissioner Weiland moved to approve Item VIILB. Commissioner McKoy seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously. Commissioner McCray suggested the pictures submitted should be supplied to Code Compliance for investigation into Code violations in the area. Commissioner McKoy pointed out the Commission could come to consensus on what would be the best for everybody. c. Project: 444 SW 7th Court (Di Nizo - accessory building) (ZNCV 07-005) Philip and Dorothy Di Nizo Philip and Dorothy Di Nizo 444 SW ih Court Request for relief from the City of Boynton Beach Land Development Regulations, Chapter 2, Zoning, Section 4.B.1., limiting an accessory building to the side (interior) or rear yard, to allow an existing accessory building to be located in the side corner yard adjacent to the street; and Agent: Owners: Location: Description: Request for relief from the City of Boynton Beach Land Development Regulations, Chapter 2, Zoning, Section D.2.b., requiring a minimum side corner building setback of 12.5 feet (not less than one-half the 25 foot front yard setback), to allow a 7- foot variance, and a side corner building setback of 5.5 feet for an existing accessory building on property zoned R-1-A Single-family residentia I. Attorney Cherof advised the same rules of procedure would apply. Ms. Di Nizo explained the shed had been installed by a contractor and the issue of a permit had not been discussed. When the City advised a permit was required all the necessary information was provided. The 12 Meeting Minutes Regular City Commission Boynton Beach, FL September 18, 2007 applicants were requesting a variance to allow the shed to remain in its current location. It would be an extreme hardship to move the shed. Commissioner Weiland noted the Planning and Development Board had not approved the request. By looking at the pictures it was evident the applicants had kept the property in good condition as one of the nicest houses in the neighborhood. Motion Commissioner Weiland moved to approve Item VIII.C. Commissioner McKoy seconded the motion. Mayor Taylor opened the issue for public hearing. No one coming forward, Mayor Taylor closed the public hearing. Vote The motion passed unanimously. D. Project: St. Therese of Liseux Early Learning Center (COUS 07- 002) Dr. Ka Hock Go Everett H. Jenner Dr. Ka Hock Go 3452 W. Boynton Beach Boulevard Request conditional use/major site plan modification approval to allow conversion of 7,098 square feet of an existing 13,170 square foot office building for a daycare use, on a 2.04-acre parcel in the C-1 zoning district. Agent: Owners: Location: Description: Attorney Cherof administered an oath to all those intending to testify. Gabriel Weubben, Planner, located the project and reviewed the staff report. Staff recommended approval of the request. Commissioner McCray requested clarification on how the playground would be enclosed. Mr. Weubben responded the entire area would be fenced in south of the building. Everett Jenner, agent for the owners, advised they were in agreement with all the conditions of approval. Mayor Taylor opened the issue for public hearing. No one coming forward, Mayor Taylor closed the public hearing. Motion Commissioner Weiland moved for approval of Item VIII.D. Commissioner McKoy seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously. 13 Meeting Minutes Regular City Commission Boynton Beach, FL September 18, 2007 E. Project: Land Development Regulations (LDR) Rewrite - Group 3 (CDRV 07-004) City-initiated Group 3 deliverable, pursuant to the LDR Rewrite Work Schedule, including: Article S. Minimum Off-Street Parking Requirements; Article 6. Parking Lot, Vehicular Use Areas, and Loading Standards; Article 7. Exterior Light Standards; and Article 8. Utility and Infrastructure Design Standards. Agent: Description: Mike Rumpf, Planning and Zoning Director, reviewed the objectives for rewriting the Land Development Regulations and summarized the various changes included in Group 3 of the Rewrite. Commissioner McCray asked for clarification on the off street parking regulations in relation to multi-family units. Eric Johnson, Planner, responded the parking spaces were based on the number of bedrooms and with multi-family units included a space for guest parking. Mr. Rumpf noted the new regulations would apply to new development and not retrofitted to established residences. Mayor Taylor suggested the elimination of the impact fee on street seating for restaurants should be brought before the Commission for discussion at the next meeting. Mr. Bressner inquired if the suggestion was for City-wide or only the business district and Mayor Taylor felt City-wide would be appropriate. Mr. Rumpf indicated the Planning and Development Board had supported the changes, but had asked for review of opportunities to reduce parking lots that created large seas of asphalt. Mayor Taylor opened the issue for public hearing. No one coming forward, Mayor Taylor closed the public hearing. Motion Commissioner McCray moved to approve Item VIII. E. Commissioner McKoy seconded the motion. F. Amending Part III of the Land Development Regulations, Chapter I, Article V. Impact Fees and Dedications revising the definition for residential unit to exclude hotels, condominium hotel units, extended stay hotel units or timeshares. (1st Reading Proposed Ordinance No. 07-027) Attorney Cherof read Proposed Ordinance No. 07-027 by title only. Motion Commissioner McKoy moved to approve Item VIII.F. Commissioner Weiland seconded the motion. 14 Meeting Minutes Regular City Commission Boynton Beach, FL September 18, 2007 Vote City Clerk Prainito called the roll. The vote was 4-0. IX. CITY MANAGER'S REPORT: None X. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS: A. Discussion of disposition of Old High School Vivian Brooks, Assistant Director of the CRA indicated a downtown master plan would be completed and formalized by the end of the year. XI. NEW BUSINESS: A. Discussion on property tax reform referendum Mayor Taylor explained County Commissioner Mary McCarty would be holding a forum on September 20th to discuss the proposed tax reform referendum. The item had been placed on the agenda to discuss the position of the City of Boynton Beach on the issue. Mr. Bressner reported the preliminary calculations indicated the taxable value would go down by 10% and equate to a $4M revenue reduction. The decision on programs offered by the City that would continue, should involve public input. Mr. Bressner speculated that a $4M reduction in revenue would equate to a $7M budget reduction. He estimated the budget would need to be cut a minimum of $6.SM. Public meetings would be beneficial to assist in deciding what programs and services could be eliminated. Mr. Bressner encouraged all property owners to go the Property Appraiser's web site and use the tax calculator to determine the impact of the proposed referendum and tax reform. John McGovern, 2629 Spice berry Lane, also emphasized the value of homeowners using the tax calculators before voting on the proposed tax reform. It was Mr. McGovern's position the referendum should be defeated and every effort should be made to educate the public on the implications of the proposed changes. Herb Suss, 1711 Wood Fern Drive, agreed it was a very important issue and the City of Boynton Beach had an obligation to educate the public on the issue. He suggested workshops be held to assist all residents, so they would not lose money or give up services. Brian Edwards, 629 NE 9th Avenue, hoped cultural projects would not be cut from the budget as they were a wonderful asset to not only the City of Boynton Beach, but also the County of Palm Beach. He strongly urged that support for the Children's Schoolhouse Museum continue because the return on the investment was great. 15 Meeting Minutes Regular City Commission Boynton Beach, FL September 18, 2007 Mayor Taylor displayed a one page flyer that explained the referendum. He suggested the flyer be included in the water bills and copies made available at as many places throughout the City as possible. His opinion was the Commission should strive to educate the public rather than support endorsement either for or against the proposal. There was consensus to expend up to $10,000 to send out a special letter indicating a unified position to educate the public on the issues. XII. LEGAL: A. Ordinances - 2nd Reading - Development - PUBLIC HEARING None B. Ordinances - 2nd Reading - Non-Development - PUBLIC HEARING 1. Proposed Ordinance No. 07-024 Re: Amending the Land Development Regulations, Chapter 2. Zoning, by the addition of a new section with provisions and regulations for mobile vendors including definitions, location restrictions, review and approval procedures and requirements, and operational rules. Attorney Cherof read proposed Ordinance No. 07-024 by title only. Mayor Taylor opened the issue for public hearing. Alicia Agaundi, a mobile vendor in West Palm Beach, indicated she parks in a parking space and the City pays for the parking. She requested any payment for parking space be removed. She also asked that the requirement for a letter from the tenant or owner of a location be eliminated, if a vendor actually parked in a public parking space on the street. Mr. Rumpf explained the ordinance did require permission from the property owner if the vendor parked on private property. It also required approval from adjacent property owners. However, if the vendor is 20 feet away from a front entrance, the letter would not be required. Ms. Aguandi also questioned if the ordinance only applied to vendors on sidewalks and not parking spaces. She also asked about the size requirements and Mr. Rumpf replied the 96 x 48 only applied to those placed on public property and did not apply to mobile units placed on private property. Ms. Aguandi requested clarification on the permit renewal and the possibility of having a competitor get preference on location over an established vendor. Mr. Rumpf agreed to review that aspect. Mayor Taylor concurred it would be important to favor established vendors. 16 Meeting Minutes Regular City Commission Boynton Beach, FL September 18, 2007 Motion Commissioner McCray moved to approve Item XII.B.1. Commissioner Weiland seconded the motion. Vote City Clerk Prainito called the roll. The vote was 4-0. 2. Proposed Ordinance No. 07-025 Re: Amending the Land Development Regulations, Part III. Chapter 2. Zoning, Section 4.B, by the addition of provisions and regulations for "Open-air pavilions" that will include pavilions, gazebos and tikijchickee huts, and corresponding setbacks and size criteria Attorney Cherof read Proposed Ordinance No. 07-025 by title only. Mayor Taylor opened the issue for public hearing. Sergio Casaine, 13 Meadows Park Lane, explained the Planning and Development Board was not against the proposed amendment, but felt there should be clarification on definitions and had requested the issue be discussed at a joint workshop with the CRA and Commission. There was a big concern relating to safety and possible fire hazards. Mr. Casaine requested the item be tabled until a joint workshop could be held. Discussion on the issue of fire safety ensued with the applicable setbacks explained. Quintus Greene, Director of Development reminded the Commission if the structure was built by the Seminole Indians, local building codes would not apply. The ordinance was an attempt to bring some type of control to the issues. Commissioner Weiland inquired if existing structures would have to comply creating a legal challenge. Attorney Cherof advised a legal challenge would not be appropriate. The City could ask that the structure be moved or removed. Mr. Casaine emphasized the safety hazard could be sad. Woodrow Hay, concurred with Mr. Casaine's comments and added the definitions were not clear. He reiterated the Planning and Development Board felt more investigation was needed. No one else coming forward, Mayor Taylor closed the public audience. Commissioner McCray stressed no electrical or plumbing was involved. Mr. Bressner recommended the issue move forward to establish some guidelines for these structures. Commissioner Weiland agreed and felt it was not appropriate to cook under any of the structures. 17 Meeting Minutes Regular City Commission Boynton Beach, FL September 18, 2007 Motion Commissioner Weiland moved to approve Proposed Ordinance No. 07-025. McCray seconded the motion. Commissioner Commissioner McKoy noted the Commission could better define the components of the ordinance at any time. Vote City Clerk Prainito called the roll. The vote was 4-0. 3. Proposed Ordinance No. 07-026 Re: Amending Article 1 of Chapter 2, Section 2-13.2 relating to the Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) to provide that the City Commission shall be the governing body of the CRA and the Mayor and Vice Mayor the CRA Chairperson and Vice-Cha irperson. Attorney Cherof read Proposed Ordinance No. 07-026 by title only. Mayor Taylor opened the issue for public hearing. Gerald Broening, 820 North Road, reiterated his position in opposition to the CRA board members being dismissed by resolution. He referred to a recent opinion letter written by himself and published in the Boynton Forum and outlined the history and development of the CRA as a citizen CRA. He urged the Commission to re-establish the citizen CRA. Herb Suss, 1711 Wood Fern Drive, recalled when the CRA board was disbanded it was indicated the change was only temporary. He noted the ordinance did not refer to any temporary status. He recommended the temporary language be included. Mr. Suss proposed there was a conflict of interest until the new Commission was seated. No one else coming forward, Mayor Taylor closed the public hearing. Attorney Cherof explained the Proposed Ordinance would conform the City Code to what the Commission had voted on previously. He emphasized the previous board was not abolished and there was absolutely no legal conflict with members of the City Commission serving as board members. Motion Mayor Taylor passed the gavel to Commissioner McKoy and moved to approve Proposed Ordinance No. 07-026. The motion failed for lack of a second. Attorney Cherof announced Proposed Ordinance No. 07-026 should be carried over to the next agenda. 18 Meeting Minutes Regular City Commission Boynton Beach, FL September 18, 2007 C. Ordinances - 1st Reading 1. Proposed Ordinance No. 07-028 RE: Amending Article III, of Chapter 18 of Boynton Beach Code of Ordinances, entitled "Pensions for Police Officers" and amend Section 18-172 providing for buyback of service. Attorney Cherof read Proposed Ordinance No. 07-028 by title only. Mayor Taylor opened the issue for public hearing. No one coming forward, Mayor Taylor closed the public hearing. Motion Commissioner McCray moved to approve Proposed Ordinance No. 07-028. Commissioner McKoy seconded the motion. Vote City Clerk Prainito called the roll. The vote was 4-0. D. Resolutions: None E. Other: 1. Approve proposed settlement of attorney's fees and costs for TJ. Cunningham, counsel for Blanche Girtman (Parcel No. 105) and appraisal fees for John Hagan Associates, Inc. Motion Commissioner McCray moved to approve Item XII.E. Commissioner McKoy seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously. Mayor Taylor advised the November 6th City Commission meeting would normally be held on November ih due to the election being held on November 6th. However, it was doubtful that the election results would be certified the day after the election. There was consensus to hold the first City Commission meeting of November on November 13th, 2007. XIII. UNFINISHED BUSINESS: None 19 Meeting Minutes Regular City Commission Boynton Beach, FL XIV. ADJOURNMENT: September 18, 2007 There being no further business to come before the Commission, Mayor Taylor properly adjourned the meeting at 9:44 p.m. ATTEST: /-, , " .' ~_..~ L.---'.' - /'-;1' U . . 'v{.. . }j:idith A. Pyle f ?1:>eputy City Clerk ~/ /7 CITY OF BOYNTON REACH: 1 -.::;-., (~l' 0c / ~/ 'n----- M:~or -. iTy ':;I {, I . 'l' ~ ,JI' _....__.._ , I::' // 20 DEVELOPMENT ORDER OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF BOYNTON BEACH, FLORIDA PROJECT NAME: St. Therese of Liseux Early Learning Center Developme; P&Z Building Englneerln(< Occ. L1censl Deputy City (. APPLICANT'S AGENT: Everett Jenner APPLICANT'S ADDRESS: 2647 NW 41st Street, Boca Raton, FL 33434 DATE OF HEARING RATIFICATION BEFORE CITY COMMISSION: September 18, 2007 TYPE OF RELIEF SOUGHT: Request conditional use / major site plan modification approval to allow conversion of 7,098 square feet of an existing 13,170 square foot office building for a daycare use, on a 2.04-acre parcel in the C-1 zoning district. LOCATION OF PROPERTY: 3452 W. Boynton Beach Blvd. DRAWING(S): SEE EXHIBIT "B" ATTACHED HERETO. x THIS MATTER came on to be heard before the City Commission of the City of Boynton Beach, Florida on the date of hearing stated above. The City Commission having considered the relief sought by the applicant and heard testimony from the applicant, members of city administrative staff and the public finds as follows: 1. Application for the relief sought was made by the Applicant in a manner consistent with the requirements of the City's Land Development Regulations. 2. The Applicant K- HAS HAS NOT established by substantial competent evidence a basis for the relief requested. 3. The conditions for development requested by the Applicant, administrative staff, or suggested by the public and supported by substantial competent evidence are as set forth on Exhibit "C" with notation "Included". 4. The Applicant's application for relief is hereby 15:... GRANTED subject to the conditions referenced in paragraph 3 hereof. DENIED 5. This Order shall take effect immediately upon issuance by the City Clerk. 6. All further development on the property shall be made in accordance with the terms and conditions of this order. 7. Other DATED: C(-ClI- 07 rn. H-~ City Clerk S:\Planning\SHARED\WP\PROJECTS\Boynton Bay\LUAR 07-002\00 Master Plan.doc EXHIBIT "e" Conditions of Approval Project name: St. Therese of Liseux Early Learning Center File number: MSPM 07-002 COUS 07-002 Reference: 2nd review plans identified as a Maior Site Plan Modification and Conditional Use with a June 26 2007 Planning and Zoning Department date stamp marking. . , 11 DEP ARTMENTS INCLUDE REJECT PUBLIC WORKS - Solid Waste Comments: l. There is an existing Mahogany adjacent to the proposed dumpster X enclosure that will present a vertical conflict with solid waste pickup equipment. Please relocate this tree appropriately. PUBLIC WORKS - Forestrv Comments: 2. Indicate, by note on the Landscape Plan, that within the sight triangles X there shall be an unobstructed cross-visibility at a level between 2.5-feet and 8-feet above the pavement (LDR, Chapter 7.5, Article II, Section 5.H.). I 3. Per the LDR, Chapter 7.5, Article II, Section 5.C.8. Cypress mulch is not I X permitted. 4. Staff strongly recommends placing canopy trees far enough back from X drive aisles to minimize the potential for vertical conflicts with high profile vehicles. PUBLIC WORKS-Traffic Comments: NONE I X ENGINEERING Comments: 5. Paving, drainage and site details will not be reviewed for construction X acceptability at this time. All engineering construction details shall be in accordance with the applicable City of Boynton Beach Standard Drawings and the "Engineering Design Handbook and Construction Standards" and will be reviewed at the time of construction permit application. UTILITIES Comments: NONE X FIRE Comments: NONE X POLICE COA 08/24/07 2 DEP ARTMENTS INCLUDE Comments: NONE x BUILDING DIVISION Comments: 6. Please note that changes or revisions to these plans may generate X additional comments. Acceptance of these plans during the TART (Technical Advisory Review Team) process does not ensure that additional comments may not be generated by the commission and at permit review. 7. At time of permit review, submit signed and sealed working drawings of X the proposed construction. 8. On the drawing titled site plan identify the property line. X If capital facility fees (water and sewer) are paid in advance to the City of X Boynton Beach Utilities Department, the following information shall be provided at the time of building permit application: A The full name ofthe project as it appears on the Development Order and the Commission-approved site plan. B The total amount paid and itemized into how much is for water and how much is for sewer. (CBBCO, Chapter 26, Art. II, Sections 26-34) 9. At time of permit review, submit separate surveys of each lot, parcel, or X tract. For purposes of setting up property and ownership in the City computer provide a copy of the recorded deed for each lot, parcel, or tract. The recorded deed shall be submitted at time of permit review. 10. Pursuant to approval by the City Commission and all other outside X agencIes, the plans for this project must be submitted to the Building Division for review at the time of permit application submittal. The plans must incorporate all the conditions of approval as listed in the development order and approved by the City Commission. 11. Toilet rooms, sinks, etc. shall comply with Chapter 11 for Handicap X Accessibility. Water closets, lavatories and sinks for children's use may be designed using the Americans With Disability Act Accessibility Guidelines for Buildings and Facilities: Building Elements Designed for Children's Use. Refer to 36 CFR Part 1191. PARKS AND RECREATION Comments: NONE X FORESTER/ENVIRONMENT ALIST Comments: 12. The applicant should provide landscape and irrigation design X improvements along the elevations shown on sheet A-3. 13. All existing trees / vegetation in the improved portion of the site should X be relocated to other locations (shown on the plan) along the perimeter of the property. REJECT Exhibit "A" - St. Therese Day Care Location Map ..~ ::::c:;::: :::1.::::.::: - ...... , ... ".......... ....,... .. .... ... ........ ," . . . . . . .. ... : ;:: c::: ........... . . ...... .J@LJ~U4J0- .........,Du) .:.: ......::NOT::IN:CITY:::~. .. .... .... ..... - .. .. . ...... :;::::1: .. ;::: I- :::; ::> :::z ::;::s:: . ....- . .. .. . ...... . ... .. .... ............ . . . . . . . . . . ..,...... . ...... .. .. ... ...... ..........................."..".,..........". . ...... . .. . . . . . . . . . . .. .... ......... .... ..,..... . . . . . . . .. ........ . ..... ... . . . . - . . . . . ....."..,......"..."....".."..,..""".,,' , ...... I .... ":::::::::::::::::::::::::':~-.:..~"~ ! -~---~3~~.~ :'; ~::~~:~~~~~~(~..~~ ~~~~::~~: .. :.:.:::::::::: r: ::. ::: :::: :~:~~:~~:~~~::~:L~ :: :::: :::: '..L.L.~~_._..l 240 120 0 I 240 480 720 N 9~~~er + e s ~ ~ " \-- ;c ~ ~.......- ~ . to" . ~ ~ " . ~ z ~ i ~ ::'I'I't"aIL A'WY.L.C.M. r---"".J cFr~~'J ~ i : ,I . ~ < ~ .~ il < : ~ .- ~ . . L_.; =:~.'"='J<f 1 .P,t ft ~ II 1 II It ~ ' ,0'. ~I .. ....1 I..t. ~ i~" ~ ~ t ~ t I! .i . !il '" . ' ~h ,. l' 'j< ~ ... -I a I .. ;iil ~ -- .::~ ~ ~ ~~tlj . I ~ ..' ~Ld 1; 1~ i ~,o .,... ";.. '.j I , l~ , ~u I I 'I ~I ~';l.""""" ~1n"C-L.C U.iJS'I ..,.n~ ~"bf'uOl~~I~S"""MNlHZ: I] UO'600 "'".,UI ","UU,"d. 8mJ:)8'!4:)J'f' 'V'\'V 'Jauuar 'H naJa^3 1::1 H'-1l1'::Il::I NUJ..NAU1:f . .. _. _n .-__.___~_ .~_ a~,\3'nOB HOV3BNOJ.NAQB .LS3M ~SYE S.LN31N~OtjdlNl tjOltj3.LN1 I" .. !T 3" ..ll ~~ .... "!a~~ t 'It::" hii~ i.i~~; l~'f. 3.l,nl !ij!~ mil ! :~~: :..I: i.~.. ~.a' smi ; ~':.' lIt~o...... ~ ~.,... !: .~ }! ii U :<~ { ,,~ . ~~ il~. . ~ ~ - ~~ ' i~!~ .' ~~~I a . ~ i,~ i fori i '.~!It ,""~ '3 e @ T 0=11 ~:. .. t ~. "., "-.. /3"",,. "'- -.--" ;y/' " j//v!<SV, .~ Q [) , t I It I ~, ",fa I ~ ~...~ ' " f ~ ,I r ~ I ~ Ir i I ~ ,...., 1 ., ~.~ __~":"7. ..,..,."...t!t_'lJ~_ ..:. ~"ftUIIt~'WIlIl\l~ _. ~., J.""", .c.u:~:_ ~"_Ji1lm:rs::::H'7"t'lii:1ii.. ".NOuu.i?q' I ' )~I ~~"!l ~ll ~IJ i ;;1 ;:C~-: n iai t !;~ I;;JII ,~~;&~ ~ ~15 I..... ~ ~;..i h."; H ~ii f;lfi , ...l. .-~ ~ {~~~i al~~ '.,Ii',.," .,. ':'..::--j' r-':' .---- --, I I !. .Lt:.==~ a:;-,,:;::ic-_J1j .M- ..':-.a,;Ol__u ! c.~ - I. ; nlJ ~a. Iff) ~., 9 .t.~ <.l !I ffi,~ ffi ~2 ,.. :t~ lfl .~} ~J~ -~....~, ! ~ Ii .-- i q:i II" .~-- ~ ~ .... ~ I I . ~ ..(j ~, 0; Ie( li!d-: ~ ~ en I- en I X W s ~ S >I ~ 9 ~ '" .~- C. I~ ,en Q lillllll!M.I! ~.~ o ~ ijiijMllllll1 ".. H ~2 i!lhl!i!iIMI I ~I!i i .~HI !i~lllg((li(( ;1 II~m 2 ~ ~11;ld 11!lhU . !I!illl!!!. i Idhhlhi ml~ @ ~;. = I.~ I'~ 1=- - -" 1-' ih -. ..,- -" iii; I ~ ~~i ~ .; I'~, 1,,= - ." I.. ~o i < .- ~i~ ~ iss e ~~~ ~ ~.~ ~ ~ ~i~I~~~~ ! . OF ~!! ~ Ii : S ~a ~".. I 00 0" <iii" S1:a I m h I ha I ;hd~~ -- ~= u.~ ~~a "'I' s~t :~: ; s~1 ;;; ; _8~5 ~al a u:iti~ ::it: sf !l j: ~I ! ~ I ~~.j ~i~ ~8" oj i B~~8 ~~a Ii lu~ ih DEVELOPMENT ORDER OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF BOYNTON BEACH, FLORIDA Development paz BuildIng EngIneering Occ. license Deputy CIty Clerk PROJECT NAME: 444 SW 7th Court (Di Nizo Shed Variance) Philip and Dorothy Di Nizo APPLICANT'S AGENT: 655 Riviera Drive, Boynton Beach, FL 33435 APPLICANT'S ADDRESS: DATE OF HEARING RATIFICATION BEFORE CITY COMMISSION: September 18,2007 TYPE OF RELIEF SOUGHT: Request for relief from the City of Boynton Beach Land Development Regulations, Chapter 2, Zoning, Section 4.B.1., limiting an accessory building to the side (interior) or rear yard, to allow an existing accessory building to be located in the side corner yard adjacent to the street, and Chapter 2, Zoning, Section D.2.b., requiring a side corner building setback of 12.5 feet (not less and one-half the 25 foot front yard setback), to allow a 7 -foot variance, and a side corner building setback of 5.5 feet for an existing accessory building on property in the R-1-A zoning district. LOCATION OF PROPERTY: 444 SW ih Court, Boynton Beach, FL I Lot 17 Fern Ridge Subdivision DRAWING(S): SEE EXHIBIT "B" ATTACHED HERETO. X THIS MATTER came to be heard before the City Commission of the City of Boynton Beach, Florida on the date of hearing stated above. The City Commission having considered the relief sought by the applicant and heard testimony from the applicant, members of city administrative staff and the public finds as follows: DATED: 1. Application for the relief sought was made by the Applicant in a manner consistent with the requirements of the City's Land Development Regulations. 2. The Applicant /HAS HAS NOT established by substantial competent evidence a basis for the relief requested. 3. The conditions for development requested by the Applicant, administrative staff, or suggested by the public and supported by substantial competent evidence are as set forth on Exhibit "E" with notation "Included". 4. The Applic9I1t's application for relief is hereby ~ GRANTED subject to the conditions referenced in paragraph 3 hereof. DENIED 5. This Order shall take effect immediately upon issuance by the City Clerk. 6. All further development on the property shall be made in accordance with the terms and conditions of this order. 7. Other: 9-~(-07 S:\Planning\SHARED\WP\PROJECTS\444 SW 7th Court\Shed ZNCV 07-005\DO.doc EXHIBIT "E" Conditions of Approval Project name: 444 SW 7th Ct / Di Nizo Shed Variance File number: ZNCV 07-005 Reference: DEPARTMENTS INCLUDE REJECT PUBLIC WORKS- General Comments: None X PUBLIC WORKS- Traffic Comments: None X UTILITIES Comments: None X FIRE Comments: None X POLICE Comments: None X ENGINEERING DIVISION Comments: None X BUILDING DIVISION Comments: None X PARKS AND RECREATION Comments: None X FORESTER/ENVIRONMENTALIST Comments: None X PLANNING AND ZONING Comments: None X Conditions of Approval P 2 f2 age 0 I DEPARTMENTS I INCLUDE I REJECT I ADDITIONAL PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT BOARD CONDITIONS Comments: None X ADDITIONAL CITY COMMISSION CONDITIONS Comments: I To be determined. ~ I I I S:\Planning\SHARED\WP\PROJECTS\444 SW 7'" Ct\Shed 07-005\COA.doc S:IPlanning\Planning Templates\Condition of Approval 2 page -P&D ORA 2003 form.doc EXHIBIT "D" Applicant's Justification for Requested Shed Variance (Response to Criteria A-G) A. That special conditions and circumstances exist which are peculiar to the land, structure, or building involved and which are not applicable to other lands, structures or buildings in the same zoning district. As far as I know there are no special conditions or circumstances. B. That the special conditions and circumstances do not result from the actions of the applicant. As far as I know there are no special conditions or circumstances. C. That granting the variance requested will not confer on the applicant any special privilege that is denied by this ordinance to other lands, buildings, or structures in the same zoning district. No. D. That literal interpretation of the provisions of this ordinance would deprive the applicant of rights commonly enjoyed by other properties in the same zoning district under the terms of the ordinance and would work unnecessary and undue hardship on the applicant. I am sure there are other sheds in the same zoning district. E That the variance granted is the minimum variance that will make possible the reasonable use of the land, building, or structure. The variance is of minimum and the shed is on our property. F. That the grant of the variance will be in harmony with the general intent and purpose of this chapter [ordinance} and that such variance will not be injurious to the area involved or otherwise detrimental to the public welfare. The shed is within our fence and is not detrimental to any public welfare. G. Variances to minimum lot area or lot frontage requirements, that property is not available from adjacent properties in order to meet these requirements, or that the acquisition of such property would cause the adjacent property or structures to become nonconforming. Applicant shall provide an affidavit with the application for variance stating that the above mentioned conditions exist with respect to the acquisition of additional property. This criterion does not apply as the variance request is for a shed, not lot area or frontage requirements. m~ 80 ill!!! 0 'l;~ m~lif ~~ ~~l ~~ Si5g ~.,~~~" co~ffiffiff~ Q::I~o.-(I) i~~!~8 ./ "~ Ie i ....,,' "'!..-= /t~ "'it '0 ......., .~ ~~ ~~ 'ii' ff~ 0:== '! U ,," it; 55 "'0 M 5~ ~ ~~ :di H ~~ Q~ ~ti tiS ~~ l:~ ..0 ~pj f'" ;U ~u ~~~ 0:: iih; 0 =XQ 8,,~ ~~~ LL. ~CJ:c EZ _0- ()~ <(0 0::1.{) (])r- , ./ '-..a ././ "''I-: ,.- .:2f', /'/ ~I ................. :~ :.se ..li =a, !~ c:!!, ::g ~1 o q> ~~ ~ ~ ! ~~~~c < c...,. c..s t;~} n ..J .c... g>1Il a~ Q. " 'U:r ", ;i~tl ',~ ~~.~I ~;1J r.:!, /-g!h" C1N B j ^ c: Ii 'a R ~ ~:J: 8"- ~o~:Sl /' [l~.H. / as 1II~\") -- .' ffi~ ~~ .,~ ~~ ~~ .... z.. ~ffi Ziti ~; iU gi!:l e!~f!!f!! o=>~:l zo::l::1 CJ ~ I-=-l ~ ~ 'f"'I ~ ~ o ~' ~ ifl ~..,..., ''''; a N (j) ~..,..., ...-l . ,..; .Q ifl a .,..; s.... s.... ~ ~ .~ -.;;.J ~ '1"""'1 Fc:J f"=4 .F='9 ;j ~ '" ,.. 10 t ~ gJ': 'E f: LI. 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CCOl::'-'$ Ll....,-OJ;g"", .s ..c 'w ,;( '" - CI:l CD ..... ::J ':: CD 'C CO Cl ~2l!?:g-g .- CD 0 I Q.€::u.: ,.."...- Ui E :: rn '<t rn--.... -8 8 CD iij,o-- 8 ~\J- DEVELOPMENT ORDER OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF BOYNTON BEACH, FLORIDA PROJECT NAME: 444 SW 7th Court (Di Nizo Fence Variance) Development P&Z Building Engineering Occ. License Deputy City Clerk 1------ APPLICANT'S AGENT: Philip and Dorothy Di Nizo APPLICANT'S ADDRESS: 655 Riviera Drive, Boynton Beach, FL 33435 DATE OF HEARING RATIFICATION BEFORE CITY COMMISSION: September 18, 2007 TYPE OF RELIEF SOUGHT: Request for relief from the City of Boynton Beach Land Development Regulations, Chapter 2, Zoning, Section 4.J.1., limiting a fence to a maximum height of four (4) feet along both road frontages on a corner lot when fence is located in front of the building line, to allow a 2-foot variance, and a six (6) foot high fence on property in the R-1-A zoning district. LOCATION OF PROPERTY: 444 SW 7'h Court, Boynton Beach, FL / Lot 17 Fern Ridge Subdivision DRAWING(S): SEE EXHIBIT "B" ATTACHED HERETO. X THIS MATTER came to be heard before the City Commission of the City of Boynton Beach, Florida on the date of hearing stated above. The City Commission having considered the relief sought by the applicant and heard testimony from the applicant, members of city administrative staff and the public finds as follows: 1. Application for the relief sought was made by the Applicant in a manner consistent with the requirements of the City's Land Development Regulations. 2. The App1ic9Pt ~HAS HAS NOT established by substantial competent evidence a basis for the relief requested. 3. The conditions for development requested by the Applicant, administrative staff, or suggested by the public and supported by substantial competent evidence are as set forth on Exhibit "E" with notation "Included". 4. The ApplicqJ:lt's application for relief is hereby ~ GRANTED subject to the conditions referenced in paragraph 3 hereof. DENIED 5. This Order shall take effect immediately upon issuance by the City Clerk. 6. All further development on the property shall be made in accordance with and conditions of this order. 7. Other: ~m. City Clerk DATED: Cj-~I -07 S:\Planning\SHARED\WP\PROJECTS\444 SW 7th Court (Di Nizo)\DO.doc EXHIBIT "E" Conditions of Approval Project name: 444 SW 7th Ct / Di Nizo Fence Variance File number: ZNCV 07-004 Reference: DEPARTMENTS INCLUDE REJECT PUBLIC WORKS- General Comments: None X PUBLIC WORKS- Traffic Comments: None X UTILITIES Comments: None X FIRE Comments: None X POLICE Comments: None X ENGINEERING DIVISION Comments: None X BUILDING DIVISION Comments: None X PARKS AND RECREATION Comments: None X FORESTER/ENVIRONMENT ALIST Comments: None X PLANNING AND ZONING Comments: None X Conditions of Approval P 2 f2 age 0 DEPARTMENTS INCLUDE REJECT ADDITIONAL PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT BOARD CONDITIONS Comments: None X ADDITIONAL CITY COMMISSION CONDITIONS Comments: To be determined. ~ S:\Planning\SHAREDlWP\PROJECTS\444 SW 7"' Ct (Oi Nizo)\COA.doc S:\Planning\Planning Templates\Condition of Approval 2 page -P&O ORA 2003 form.doc Exhibit "A" - Site Location Map 444 SW 7th Ct o 62.5 125 ~- 250 375 500 I Feet N ..' s Certified To: Philip T. Di Nizo Jr. and Dorothy M. Di Nizo, husband and wife; Stella Suarez-Rita, PL; Attorneys' Title Insurance Fund, Inc. Property Address: 444 SW 7th Court, Boynton Beach, FL ' Flood Zone: C (FIRM 120196 0003C 9-30-82) Description: Lot 17, FERN RIDGE, according to the Plat thereof as recorded in Plat Book 26, Page 115, of the Public Records of Palm Beach County, Florida. Permit No. / iJocr REVIEWED BY ~ Structural Electrical Plumbing Mechanical , P,<:.z ~ ~@[J~ti:r[}={] . SCALE 1"=30' F CH ~.~~: ~~:r '"iie Police C:tht~r ~)~ U~;t'ssetJ by' S.W. -ZTH CT PAVED 50'R/W tn ::c ~I 8 ~ ~I Q: ~V ~ 3: ~ a:: <{ u.. in lO 65.0 ONE STORY RESIDENCE #44 65.0' 13: ......... l~ 6 ft. Wood Fence I .~//'7IT FD) n.R -------ANCHOR--- - 89.S2'00"W 110.00 ----------Lor-16------WOOD POLE ------~~I---- w => LOT 1 5 N ~!J5. ~'.st)"/: .~ 'P) '. b lCi N I: o t~ T~ T 6'WOOD T FENCE TYP. LOT 18 ~ ~ p Safe Sight Corner t?~ Area not in Compliance with Fence Height SJ..!RYf. Y NOT r s, \) THIS SURVEY IS HOT TO BE USED roR CONSTRUCTION OR DESIGN PURPOSES. 2) Lo.nds shewn hereen wer, not llbstro.c:1ed by this Dfflc:e tor ellse"rnts. rlght-ot-wllYs, or ether'lnstrul'lents ot rec:ord. 3) No. underground Il'lprovel'lrnts lec:o. t"d unl"ss shewn. 4) All b"llrlngs llnd dlstllnC:"5 shewn h"reen ore plllt llnd I'lellsured unless etherwls" net"d, 5) Unl"ss It b"o.rs tI-,,, slgnllture o.nd the Drlglno.l ro.lsed s"o.l ot 0. nDrldo. lIc:enses surveyer o.nd I'lllpper, this I'lo.p/r"pert Is fer Inferl'lo.tlano.l purpases enly o.nd Is not vo.lId. 6) This flr...s 'Certlflc:o.t" 0' Autherlzo.tlen' n.....ber 15 'LB 6838'. I r r. r N n r J:"" ~ rIfJl~ur-n rl nnD EXHIBIT "D" Applicant's Justification for Variance Request (Response to Criteria A-G) A. That special conditions and circumstances exist which are peculiar to the lan~ structure/ or building involved and which are not applicable to other lands/ structures or buildings in the same zoning district. The fence was already on the property when we purchased the house. B. That the special conditions and circumstances do not result from the actions of the applicant. The fence was already on the property when we purchased the house. C That granting the variance requested will not confer on the applicant any special privilege that is denied by this ordinance to other land~ buildings/ or structures in the same zoning district. There are several corner properties in the immediate area with the same 6 foot fences plus corner properties with hedges from 6 to 10 feet as shown on the pictures enclosed. D. That literal interpretation of the provisions of this ordinance would deprive the applicant of rights commonly enjoyed by other properties in the same zoning district under the terms of the ordinance and would work unnecessary and undue hardship on the applicant Yes, other properties have 6 foot fences or hedges higher than 6 feet on corner lots. E That the variance granted is the minimum variance that will make possible the reasonable use of the lan~ building/ or structure. Sitting in our back yard without looking at a 12 foot yellow cement wall as shown in picture labeled #1. Reasonable use for privacy. Hardship, I am sure it would be almost impossible to sell our house, should we decide to do so in the future, without the privacy of the fence. F. That the grant of the variance will be in harmony with the general intent and purpose of this chapter [ordinance] and that such variance will not be injurious to the area involved or otherwise detrimental to the public welfare. The fence is not an obstruction on either side as it is approximately 30 feet from the road on the north side and approximately 15 feet back from the road on the west side. G. Variances to minimum lot area or lot frontage requirements/ that property is not available from adjacent properties in order to meet these requirements/ or that the acquisition of such property would cause the adjacent property or structures to become nonconforming. Applicant shall provide an affidavit with the application for variance stating that the above mentioned conditions exist with respect to the acquisition of additional property. This criterion does not apply as the variance request is for fence height, not lot area or frontage requirements. DEVELOPMENT ORDER OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF BOYNTON BEACH, FLORIDA Development P&Z Bul/dlng Engineering Occ. LIcense Deputy City Clerk PROJECT NAME: Harbor Cay APPLICANT'S AGENT: Mr. Sid E. von Rospeunt, Harbor Cay, LLC APPLICANT'S ADDRESS: 605 Lakeside Harbor Drive, Boynton Beach, FL 33435 DATE OF HEARING RATIFICATION BEFORE CITY COMMISSION: August 21,2007 postponed until September 18, 2007 TYPE OF RELIEF SOUGHT: Request a one (1) year site plan time extension from May 2, 2007 until May 2, 2008, for 23 proposed townhouses on a 1.429-acre parcel in the IPUD zoning district. LOCATION OF PROPERTY: East side of North Federal Highway, approximately 160 feet north of Gateway Boulevard. DRAWING(S): SEE EXHIBIT "B" ATTACHED HERETO. X THIS MATTER came on to be heard before the City Commission of the City of Boynton Beach, Florida on the date of hearing stated above. The City Commission having considered the relief sought by the applicant and heard testimony from the applicant, members of city administrative staff and the public finds as follows: 1. Application for the relief sought was made by the Applicant in a manner consistent with the requirements of the City's Land Development Regulations. 2. The Applicant HAS HAS NOT established by substantial competent evidence a basis for the relief requested. 3. The conditions for development requested by the Applicant, administrative staff, or suggested by the public and supported by substantial competent evidence are as set forth on Exhibit "C" with notation "Included". 4. The Applicant's application for relief is hereby _ GRANTED subject to the conditions referenced in paragraph 3 hereof. DENIED 5. This Order shall take effect immediately upon issuance by the City Clerk. 6. All further development on the property shall be made in accordance with the terms and conditions of this order. 7. Other C(-().J-07 DATED: S:\Planning\SHARED\WP\PROJECTS\Harbor Cay\SPTE 07-006\OO,doc EXHIBIT "D" Conditions of Approval Project name: Harbor Cay File number: SPTE 07-006 Reference: DEPARTMENTS INCLUDE REJECT PUBLIC WORKS- General Comments: None X PUBLIC WORKS- Traffic Comments: None X UTILITIES Comments: None X FIRE Comments: None X POLICE Comments: None X ENGINEERING DIVISION Comments: None X BUILDING DIVISION Comments: None X PARKS AND RECREA nON Comments: None X FORE S TERlENVlRONMENT ALIST Comments: None X PLANNING AND ZONING Comments: Conditions of Approval Harbor Cay SPTE 07-006 P 2 age I DEPARTMENTS I INCLUDE I REJECT I 1. The site plan time extension shall be subject to all previous Conditions of X Approval. 2. The Applicant shall pay the Capacity Reservation Fee amount due to the City X prior to fmal action by the City Commission on this Site Plan Extension request. ADDITIONAL COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY BOARD CONDITIONS Comments: None X ADDITIONAL CITY COMMISSION CONDITIONS Comments: To be determined. ~ S :\Planning\SHARED\ WP\PROJECTS\Harbor Cay\SPTE\COA.doc .' ..... .: - - -. ... .. - . .. I. II ". Harbor Cay -----.J I it I; 'f- ,I L I h . . f-- C~3 ~:";' ':i ..~ ::e Cl , :$ , '.t .~ : .~ :'Q .. ~.. n,..~1 Lr... : .} , PUD 7 k I .+1 I Subject .. REC S'ite · ~'m_ flr_ T I' 'p~ ,., .~~ C-3 I: ,j p ~ , ' GA"mWA'YBLVD .' ..' I o )~t~,,, t~ /;J;, . I- ) ..~ .....~..,' pF:'" c-27,.:1,., R-3 . Jt,~,,': )Qg.D Ill; "" Q r~ijl. ! /' I. IPUD REC 200 100 0 I 200 400 I ?otter~Gad I I R-3 I In Las P.a1masiPk 600 R.1.~ I I I I _ I I"';"" I "j.'I-~~~ Exhibit "A" ..!~; :,rir-- '~!' 'JU' ~, ~:- ~! o Z'f== 1 - 'p.~ J I ~ & r,; .' ;' . f.. ,.. " :: :.:. " :~.' ;" ::'. .:' .' ::. .. j N W+E S 800 I Feet J~ i;\~~ ~..~ .~ ~ R; ~~~ iil ~~ 1 ~ ;m~~ '. S.;\,.. .. '&,~ :s......... ;11~i J.=U ,,~ wi. :'1.1 I J~ ,ii~ lit.... 'l;:-"-': II ~" lol ~ ;.s\ ; ~ Il~~ I ,'~:, ~. ~ "Ii I ,~~ g. mEr" . J~ J!J! I I Be ,ere ]S ]S]S fin I '" .Ii !! IISD ! -- 9: ". -:q!!1 --- j--- -- n .. - - - - - - - ':~R/DA EAST . ;~ \. ~-.. - -,- - - .9~~T RAILROAD Ii ....-.. "\ U.S. HIGHt..A,.' - - _ _ __ .v~TNo. 1 _ --- .. .. -- .. """'~-"-~~-:::-~- - II :~""'=----~~~-:- " . ,~ .." Ii \. _ . - ===-~ _ . ..... .. "", // -...:. "\ , '. .""::-:::::..:.. - --=..-.:-- .fit- - " I. I' , I: I: I' I I I I I, I , , /. ,. . "" , ~ ....... ..~..', /, I i . 1 I; , , , IIUUUflftifflHU s IDi.."e.....D..I....I~III! S6 r iii '!lIba~~:,!lIIl1l!" '1111811I11I11111I I i Ii! I ~ = Ii 'UlrJffljnU! I if!' II P i ,i i f I' II I I hi! ~ b Ifimfrr1w'111 il.,1 ,. f i ~ i ~ ~ III {,[IIU;' frf i , I ; Pi S II h t}'dUH Iff J l,s ! H H H!!g; ~ H I g ~ 8 Cl :" J J I If iI ~ I i UHUU BIi i il~ ~ '-~I IIi.Hi: lin .~ ;;;;;;;; i;;; ~! HARBOR CAY T01IlrNMOuses 8DO I.AKESIDE HARBOUR 8..,.._ _..... 1'1...."" IRKS E "~""""""-u."''''''''''''''N.''''' ......., -...--- L/' ,U/U/v/P ~ 1- ~~-L ~ ' : \0), ~ @ ~ n \1u I 1& .'21001 i~ PLANNING AND ZONING DEPl March 9,2007 Board of Comrni.c;sioners The City of Boynton Beach 100 East Boynton Beach Blvd. Boynton Beach, FL 33435 Re: Development Order Ertension Gentlemen: Please accept our request for an extension of twelve months for Boynton Beach Resolution 06-097, a Development Order fur Harbor Cay Town Homes; an IPOO located within a few hundred feet North of Gateway Boulevard on Federal Highway going towards the In1I'aroast:al Waterway. Due to various delays in obtaining approval fur the underground utilities, only recently resubmitted after substmtial prior oonsultation along with the expectation of further oomments requiring additional reconfiguration and another round of resubmission, and the sequential nature of the process whereby the plat cannot be deli~ted until the civil engineering is approved, and in light of the extensive Conditions of Approval that must be addressed; it is not likelytbat a construction permitwiJl be secured before the Development Order expires on May 2ndaf 2007. Thank you, in advanre, for your time and oonsideration. We trust that the Board of Cornmi~oners sballlookupon our petition with kindness and generousity. Sid R von ChiefExecufive Officer AmerCan Development Corp. The M;:tn~gjng Member for Harbor Cay, u..c Harb01" Cay, LLC 605 La}wide Harbor Drive, Boynton Beach, Florik 33435, Tel: 561-734-3000 Fax: 561-72.4-3005 www.barborcay.com ~ ~,<) rot.<<. "" I s- Lf J, ~SE7JT j /C) L:: L - ,,~,'" '"'RER TO THE EDITOR ~iJ ':. .;:' ~~1:~ "~" . ", .~..,..~ IIiL '~.',~,,;. .:,:,~~ "". " .."...iik...'O::'~~ . l' . IO'IDtfrDRor: Qn1une 19, the Boynton Beach City Commission voted'3.2hy resolution to fire the seven duly ap- pointed citizen Community Redevelopment Agency Board of Directors and name itself the CRA board. 'Fhi8' action countermanded ~uu~xisting ordinance that prohibits the City Commis- sion from,serving as the goVemingboard of the CRA buJ grants it the power to appoint all members of the eRA board and name the chatf'ala&and vice chair- man, as well as all statutory Pc>:\Y~rs stipulated in state and'locaJ.laws. Conceding the commis- sion has the authority to do so - even though there is an arguable reason to believe otherwise or at least to ask a court ruling - serious ques- tions remain about how cer- tainmembers of the com- mission pushed the action . through, 'Hereare questions that arise from this sudden, pre. cipitous and patently unfair action: . WaS this process con- sistent with the Florida Sunshine Law and cu'stom- ary city Commission policy andpractice? . Because a completed, printed copy of the resolu- ~on was available for signa- ture at the meeting, despite the fact that it had been "walked on" at the same meeting, does that indicate there was some prior knowledge by some mem- bers of the commission that .1-.<5: .) (17 the agenda item would be changed from Friday to Tuesday? The city commission pre- agenda meeting was estab- lished to ensure that all commissioners, the public and the media might have an opportunity to ask ques- tions and acquire all neces- sary information to prepare them for debate and discus~ sion prior to a vote. There is enough pre- sumptive evidence for any reasonable observer to con- clude that both the Sun- shine Law anp local policy and procedure have been viol.ated by some Boynton Beach city commissioners. The issue needs to be re- solved. The citizen CRA this commission rashly and pos- sibly illegally disbanded, ef- fectively and honorably served the best interests of, the citizens of Boynton Beach. One key measure of ef.. fectiveness: Since Dec. 19, 2000, when the citizen CRA was established, the CRA has coordinated develop- ment, which has resulted in almost $10 million in tax in- crement funding. In the 11 years the City Commissioq served as the CRA govern.. ing body, virtually nothing was accomplished, result- ing in only about $880,000 in TIF, a chief measure of CRA accomplishment. More importantly, tbecit- izen CRA earned the,.st of the citizens of Bo" It. Beach and ofthe ou vestors, who risk m' the future of Bo Beach. . " , .., Much remainsfo"be done. ' Gerald BMiilIiIInD f:ORMER BOYNTON BE-A~ol BOYNT(J~CH BOYNTON BEACH VISION 20/20: PLANNING OUR FUTURE "...-..-...-.. .....-...----...... '-" (/May 2 - 4, 1996 , /~ \, .' ........... Indian River-PlantatiDn, Hutchihson Island "....." Participant List Henry F. Ackermann Pastor Boynton Beach Congregational Church 115 N. Federal Highway Boynton Beach, FL 33435 Chanelle Bowdry Student P,O, Box 3988 Boynton Beach, FL 33424 Jose Aguila Architect 800 S.W, 1st Court Boynton Beach, FL 33426 Conrad Braaten Pastor, Ascension Lutheran Church 2929 S, Seacrest Boulevard Boynton Beach, FL 33435 Simon Albery Pastor, New Jerusalem Church 124 South Dixie Highway Lantana, FL 33462 Fawn Bradley Project Director "I Have a Dream" Foundation 550 Miner Road Boynton Beach, FL 33426 Leonard Aremka Chair, Boynton Leisureville Blood Bank 1919 S,W, 17th Avenue Boynton Beach, FL 33426 Matthew Bradley Commissioner, City of Boynton Beach 100 E. Boynton Beach Boulevard Boynton Beach, FL 33425 Michael Bottcher Board Member, Boynton Beach Chamber of Commerce 148 S.W. 24th Avenue Boynton Beach, FL 33435 ( " Dagmar Brahs Vice President Coalition of Boynton West Residential Association, Inc. 6655 O'Hara Avenue BOYl1tofl-~L 33437 --, Gerald F. Broening President, Inlet Cove Asso~tion 820 North Road / Boynton Beach, FL 33435/ Bruce Black Area Trainer, The Home Depot 229 SW 1 st Avenue Boynton Beach, FL 33435 Kenneth Blair Member, Education Advisory Board 825 Ocean Inlet Drive Boynton Beach, FL 33435 Calvin Cearley President and CEO Prime Bank 211 South Federal Highway Boynton Beach, FL 33435 Ginny Foot President, The Art of Framing 638 E, Ocean Avenue Boynton Beach, FL 33435 Anne Camille Centi Chair, Education Advisory Board 502 S.E. 5 Circle, #11 B Boynton Beach, FL 33434 Roy Fraker Consultant P.O. Box 3978 Boynton Beach, FL 33424 Frances Cleary Sterling Village Condo Ass'n, Inc, 850 Horizons East, #208 Boynton Beach, FL 33435 Glenn Francis Distribution Manager Publix Supermarkets, Inc. 5500 Park Ridge Blvd, Boynton Beach, FL 33426 Joy Currier Member, Community Relations Board 449 S,W. 4th Avenue Boynton Beach, FL 33435 Christiane Francois Secretary, Prime Plaza, Inc. 115 South Federal Hwy. Boynton Beach, FL 33435 James Darst Asst. Vice President Republic Security Bank 1301 N, Congress Avenue, Suite 100 Boynton Beach, FL 33426 Patricia Frazier Planning and Development Board 2866, S.W. 8th Street Boynton Beach, FL 33435 Alexander DeMarco 1017 Quail Covey Road Boynton Beach, FL 33436 Mike B. Friedland President, Boynton Beach Jewish Center Beth Kodesh 330 N.E. 26th Avenue Boynton Beach, FL 33435 Ralph Diaz Financial Consultant 415 S.W. 4th Avenue Boynton Beach, FL 33435 Barkley Garnsey President, Sea Mist Enterprises 700 Casa Loma Boulevard Boynton Beach, FL 33435 Stanley Dube Chair, Planning and Development Board 2734 Cranbrook Drive Boynton Beach, FL 33436 Angela Girtman Chair, Child and Youth Advisory Board 1920 N.E. 1st Lane Boynton Beach, FL 33435 Irene Feeney 800 Canary Walk Gulf Stream, FL 33483 Blanche Girtman Member, Community Relations Board P.O. Box 1552 Boynton Beach, FL 33425 Don Finton President, Finton Construction Co., Inc. 214 S.E. 7th Avenue Boynton Beach, FL 33435 Bob Harper 28 Via Lago Boynton Beach, FL 33435 Walter Kies Boynton Leisureville Community Association 2109 S,W, 22nd Street Boynton Beach, FL 33426 Patti Hammer 52 G Stratford Lane Boynton Beach, FL 33436 Jeanne Heavilin Century 21/Clarke & O'Shea Realty P.O. Box 3693 Boynton Beach, FL 33424-3693 Keturah Lee Member, Advisory Board on Children and Youth 136 S.E. 13th Avenue Boynton Beach, FL 33435 Barry Hill Member, Planning and Zoning Board 612 SW 1st Street Boynton Beach, FL 33435 Reverend R. M. Lee St. John Baptist Church 407 N.W, 9th Avenue Boynton Beach, FL 33435 Robert B. Hill CEO, Bethesda Memorial Hospital 2815 South Seac'rest Boulevard Boynton Beach, FL 33435 Gary Lehnertz Staff Programmer, IBM Corporation 619 S.W, 2nd Avenue Boynton Beach, FL 33426 Dan Holthouse 650 Costilla Lane Boynton Beach, FL 33435 Micheline Many 217 S,E. 3rd Street Boynton Beach, FL 33435 Andrea K. Horne General Manager, Boynton Beach Mall 801 N. Congress Avenue, Suite 295 Boynton Beach, FL 33426 John Martin Vice President, Smith Barney, Inc. 75 North Federal Highway, 101 Delray Beach, FL 33483 Shirley Jaskiewicz Vice Mayor, City of Boynton Beach 100 East Boynton Beach Boulevard Boynton Beach, FL 33425-0310 Art Matthews Owner, Rainbow City Grocery Store 1919 N, Seacrest Blvd. Boynton Beach, FL 33435 Myra Jones 311 N.W. 4th Avenue Boynton Beach, FL 33435 Mary McCarty Palm Beach County Commissioner District #4 301 N. Olive Avenue, 12th Floor West Palm Beach, FL 33401 Herbert Kahlert President, Karl Corporation 3210 Palm Drive Delray Beach, FL 33483 Eddie Mitchell Member, Advisory Council on African American Affairs 329 N.E, 12th Avenue Boynton Beach, FL 33435-3120 Kenneth Kaleel, Esq. 555 N. Congress Avenue, Suite 302 Boynton Beach, FL 33426 Gene Moore, Esq. Chairman of the Board, BankBoynton 639 E. Ocean Avenue, Suite 409 Boynton Beach, FL 33435 . Steve Myott Royal Palm Village Neighborhood 2657 NE 4th Street Boynton Beach, FL 33435 Margaret Newton Vice Chairwoman, Education Advisory Board 701 N.W. 4th Street Boynton Beach, FL 33435 Stormet C. Norem Owner, Boynton Memorial Chapel 800 W. Boynton Beach Blvd. Boynton Beach, FL 33426 Bobbi Oppenheimer Chair, Library Board 62-C Eastgate Drive Boynton Beach, FL 33436 Harvey E. Oyer, Jr. Harvey E. Oyer Jr" Inc., P,O, Box 507 Boynton Beach, FL 33435 Andy Plucinski Sales Manager Waste Management of Palm Beach 651 Industrial Way Boynton Beach, FL 33426 Lloyd Powell Executive, Alpine Florist P,O. Box 700 Boynton Beach, FL 33425-0700 Brian Proffit President, Visionary Research 2706 SW 4th Street Boynton Beach, FL 33435 Lena Rahming Chair, City of Boynton Beach Black Awareness Committee 909 N,E, 3rd Street Boynton Beach, FL 33435 James Reed 2458 Cranbrook Drive Boynton Beach, FL 33436 Maurice Rosenstock Member, Planning and Development Board 1 Villa Lane Boynton Beach, FL 33436 Steven Otley Scott Owner, Lucille & Otley's Restaurant, Inc. 1021 S, Federal Highway Boynton Beach, FL 33435 \.. Kathy Shabotynskyj President, Greater Boynton Beach Chamber of Commerce 639 E, Ocean Avenue Boynton Beach, FL 33435 Marie Shepard President, Boynton Beach Women's Club 140 W, Ocean Avenue Boynton Beach, FL 33435 Dave Showalter Vice President, SunTrust Bank, South Florida 315 S. Federal Highway Boynton Beach, FL 33435 I. Rita Simmons Parent/Child Service Coordinator Boynton Community Life Center 239 N.E. 13th Avenue Boynton Beach, FL 33435 Candace Smith Vice President, NationsBank 289 N. Congress Avenue Boynton Beach, FL 33426 Henrietta Solomon Village Royale on Green 230 N.E. 26th Avenue Boynton Beach, FL 33435 Jim Warnke 617 Lakeside Harbor Boynton Beach, FL 33435 .;, Stacy Stephens Family Comm. Coordinator MAD DADS of Greater Delray Beach 715 N.W. 4th Street Boynton Beach, FL 33435 Tom Warnke Regional Manager, Costa Del Mar Sunglasses \~ 625 Lakeside Harbor Boynton Beach, FL 33435 Melvyn Sternbach President and Director Citrus Glen Men's Club 222 Citrus Trail Boynton Beach, FL 33436 C. Stanley Weaver Secretary- Treasu rer-Owne r Cypress Creek Country Club 9400 Military Trail Boynton Beach, FL 33436 c L Gerald S. Taylor Mayor, City of Boynton Beach 100 E, Boynton Beach Blvd. Boynton Beach, FL 33425 Betty Ann Welch President, Friends of the Boynton Beach Library 636 West Ocean Avenue Boynton Beach, FL 33426 Robert B. Taylor Vice President-FinancefTreasurer Bethesda Memorial Hospital 4 Via Lago Boynton Beach, FL 33435 Elliott B. Williams Vice President, Communication Resource Mgmt, Inc. 1341 S,W, 27th Place Boynton Beach, FL 33426 Betty M. Thomas Chairperson, Recreation and Parks Board 331 S.W. 11 th Avenue Boynton Beach, FL 33435 Sarah Williams Chairperson, Martin Luther King Committee 1331 S,W. 27th Avenue Boynton Beach, FL 33426 v" Henderson Tillman Commissioner, City of Boynton Beach 100 E. Boynton Beach Blvd, Boynton Beach, FL 33425 Bill R. Winchester P.O. Drawer 1240 Boynton Beach, FL 33425 v Jamie Titcomb Commissioner, City of Boynton Beach 100 E. Boynton Beach Blvd. Boynton Beach, FL 33425 Lee Wische Member, Planning and Development Board 1302 S.W. 18th Street Boynton Beach, FL 33426 l Dorothy Walker Member, Advisory Council on African American Affairs 707 N.W. 3rd Street Boynton Beach, FL 33435 Jim Zengage President, Southem Development Services 2499 Glades Road Boca Raton, FL 33431 BOYNTON BEACH VISION 20/20: PLANNING OUR FUTURE GROUP ASSIGNMENTS GROUP 1: Salon I Facilitator: Hank Ackermann Recorder: Angela Grooms Kenneth Blair Dagmar Brahs Calvin Cearley Ginny Foot Patricia Frazier Blanche Girtman Shirley Jaskiewicz Gary Lehne rtz Eddie Mitchell Gene Moore Andy Plucinski Brian Proffit Mau rice Rosenstock Marie Shepard I. Rita Simmons Stacy Stephens Melvyn Sternbach Robert Taylor Tom Warnke C. Stanley Weaver Elliott Williams BOYNTON BEACH VISION 20/20: PLANNING OUR FUTURE GROUP 2: Salon II Facilitator: Kathy Shabotynkskyj Recorder: Jessica Griffin Jose Aguila Simon Albery Matthew Bradley James Darst Alexander DeMarco Ralph Diaz Roy Fraker Barkley Garnsey Patti Hammer Bob Harper Robert Hill Andrea Horne Herb Kahlert Walter Kies Keturah Lee Mary McCarty Margaret Newton Betty Thomas Henderson Tillman Dorothy Walker Betty Ann Welch BOYNTON BEACH VISION 20/20: PLANNING OUR FUTURE GROUP 3: Salon III {Thursday)/Scalawags (Friday) Faciitator: Angela Girtman Recorder: MaryBeth DeAnna Chanelle Bowdry Fawn Bradley A.::.'?J ~ Gerald Broening Stanley Dube A'5":>fJ . Irene Feeney Glenn Francis Christiane Francois Myra Jones Ken Kaleel R.M, Lee Micheline Many John Martin Steve Myatt Lloyd Powell Steven Scott David Showalter Henrietta Solomon ., td A<S S 0 C , ~;J 0~ Jerry Taylor Sarah Williams Bill Winchester Jim Zengage BOYNTON BEACH VISION 20/20: PLANNING OUR FUTURE GROUP 4: Stuart Hall Facilitator: Mike Friedland Recorder: Linda Friar Leonard Arem ka Bruce Black Mike Bottcher Conrad Braaten Anne Centi Frances Cleary Joy Currier Don Finton Jeanne Heavilin Barry Hill Dan Holthouse Art Matthews Stormet Norem Bobbi Oppenheim er Harvey Oyer, Jr. Lena Rahm ing James Reed Candace Smith Jamie Titcomb Jim Warnke Lee Wische Boynton Vision 20/20 Assembly Steering Committee Robert Hill Steering Committee Chair CEO, Bethesda Memorial Hospital Bob Taylor Steering Committee Vice Chair Vice President, Finance-Treasurer, Bethesda Memorial Hospital Hank Ackermann Pastor, Congregational United Church of Christ Stuart Adelkoff Boynton Beach James Darst Asst. Vice President, Republic Security Bank Ginny Foot The Art of Framing Mike Friedland President, Boynton Beach Jewish Center Beth Kodesh Angela Girtman Chair, Advisory Board on Children and Youth Keturah Lee Member, Advisory Board on Children and Youth Gary Lehnertz Staff Programmer, IBM Bill Lynch President, Boynton Leisureville Homeowners Association Art Matthews Owner, Rainbow City Grocery Store Lena Rahming Chairperson, Boynton Beach Black Awareness Committee Howard Solomon Century 21 Home Showcase Jamie Titcomb, Commissioner President, James Titcomb Creative, Inc. Debbie Tomello Member, Boynton Beach Code Enforcement Ron Tufo Training Manager, Motorola Paging Products Group BOYNTON BEACH VISION 20/20: PLANNING OUR FUTURE SPONSORS City of Boynton Beach Palm Beach County Bethesda Memorial Hospital Barnett Bank BellSouth Columbia JFK Medical Center Delray Community Hospital Greater Boynton Beach Chamber of Commerce Hunters Run Golf and Racquet Club James Titcomb Creative, Inc. Mouw Associates, Inc. SunTrust Bank, South Florida, N.A. Florida Power and Light Co. Hardrives, Inc. Karl Corporation Kilday & Associates, Inc. The Art of Framing, Inc. BankBoynton, ES.B. Boynton leisureville Community Association Boynton Beach Rotary Fidelity Federal Savings Bank Friends of the Boynton Beach Library Marriott Senior Living Services, Brighton Gardens Republic Security Bank 1_-/ ;~!~(;\ :; ;:A3LO;~lNijltr ;~;;,;<; ~i~h"~1 L ;")~ }":;,:':";:i:.,j': ~:' .. ',; '>' .'" .. r::;:;:::. .- ..,.:. .....l,i'i;..;;." ..'.n.> ,.<. "". . I) . "'_m j ~.t~t;::H~~r;f~li;,~~~n~;~;~:j:!:~jL) \~,1=li ~...J...<....:.. .J;;___.,;,;..4'.~.:.;":'\..... :::1 :\~: ;::,~.,lj .~1~:~{~'" ;'i ~:; ~ '~~i 7:1.~i~ i\: ~: ~ ; ,- _ i: \'\') ,r1",tt1vr:. ~.... ..",~""... \~"'i...,. J . ...J:..... \ ~..~"'t... ;f~; J~ \,) I".t:r~,.~ o!~"r ...e-" "~"",!"', r. " 1-- l~':''''1~~I~''1'~l''tl'.I<fF'~'''''M~~S!~'''; .':~.~':'"~ '~~ t Q .-, ,","""'.' 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',1 .r.".""""'?{ '. ..,~;.t>; .," -''C~ll J'" I =:=J ~~;~: l~ MENNINGER EYlr~RUDE! ='1 1 R~\H~. "S~. li~~ ROOM ROOM I:.: ...' HL,~.J'" h.-:-j --"= L.--J.,' ~ i ~ ~I r9 ~,~,.=-._~I ELliOTT FOYER =- STUART fOYER, l~J ~~...4..'~'" .~. r:~;~:;::::':}jl ~~~~;;R:AC;~~~~~~/~~==-~ '~"'....,...., _ ... . _ _"_ r", _I n :~1 L I LJ CL Iii L ELLIOTT AMrHrTHEATRE LLLi....LJ....Ll ! i 1 LL.....:...L I G.L.!..lJ ] Till L..:._~..LLLL! 1 , 11 L!.' i ! I i ~I ! 1- . ~L-LLI ! . BOYNTON BEACH VISION 20/20: PLANNING OUR FUTURE AGENDA QUESTIONS SESSION I QUALITY OF LlFEIIMAGE AND CHARACTER 1. Please discuss the City's image and character and what efforts should be undertaken, if any, to change the City's image. Please consider: a. city services b. community appearance c. economic/business development base d. educational, recreational, and cultural facilities and programs e. population mix and projected growth f. other 2. Specific policies will be considered in detail during the discussion sessions that follow. At this point, we need to build consensus on some general strategies for developing the kind of city you desire. What general strategies and policies are necessary to promote the type of city you envision for the future? 3, How can the business community, civic groups, neighborhood associations, and individuals assist the City in promoting community unity? 4. Are the City's recreational and cultural facilities and programs sufficient to meet the current and future needs of the community? If not, what kinds of facilities and programs are lacking, and how should they be prioritized and funded? SESSION II COMMERCIAL REVITALIZATION 1. Do you think Boynton Beach needs to have a recognizable downtown? If so, what actions should be taken by the City to promote downtown revitalization efforts? 2. Are there commercial areas in the City which are in need of revitalization? If so, which areas are most in need of revitalization and what can be done to reverse the pattern of decline in these areas? 3. Should prospective businesses be encouraged to locate within the City using existin~ buildings ~'i.ant properties? If so, how mi~C~sp ~r-1 4. All public infrastructure has a measurable life span. Is the current infrastructure sufficient to promote future commercial revitalization? If not, please identify improvements that are needed. In order to fund future revitalization efforts, new or enhanced revenue sources will be required. What sources should be explored to raise the necessary revenue? Please consider: a. additional taxes for dedicated purposes b. bond issues c. new and/or increased user fees d. special assessment districts e. revenues generated from new commercial and residential development f. other 1..1 ~ ~Jr ;lOt!' ~? r I SESSION III ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT 1. Land use regulation is the single most influential means by which a community shapes its future character. Given your perception of the land use mix in the City, what land uses need to be promoted or discouraged? Does the current land use mix adequately address the future development needs of the City? If not, what amendments to the Comprehensive Plan should be considered? 2. What should the role of the City be in facilitating economic development? How can the City, private business and industry, and the community-at-Iarge work together to assure that development will adequately accommodate growth and be consistent with the City's vision for the future? 3, What can be done to competitively recruit new businesses and retain existing businesses in Boynton Beach? How can the City ensure that opportunities are provided for minority business participation? 4. What incentives can the City offer to business and industry in order to expand its economic base? Is the current development approval process flexible enough to attract future development within the City? If not, what modifications can the City initiate to streamline the process? SESSION IV NEIGHBORHOOD REVll ALlZA liON 1. Some neighborhoods within Boynton Beach are deteriorating and in need of revitalization. What actions can the City and its residents take to improve the quality of life in its neighborhoods and how should desired improvements be implemented? Please consider: a. beautification programs b. enhanced code, zoning, and housing standards and enforcement c. neighborhood master planning activities d. role of civic/neighborhood associations e. other 2. Is there an adequate amount of housing to meet the needs of current and future Boynton Beach residents? If not, what housing needs are most pressing in the City and what demands are expected in the future? 3. What role, if any, can the City or other public/private agencies take in promoting the acquisition and/or rehabilitation of existing substandard housing, particularly in areas where there is a high percentage of vacant homes? 4. What measures can be taken to ensure that public housing agencies manage housing projects in the most effective and efficient manner? SESSION V PUBLIC SAFETY/CRIME PREVENTION 1, Do relations need to be strengthened between the City police department and City residents? If so, what steps would be appropriate to encourage improved interaction? 2. Crime can have a major negative effect on the quality of life of the City's residents. However, the problems of crime cannot be solved solely by law enforcement and other governmental agencies. What role should community, business, neighborhood, religious, and other organizations play regarding crime prevention? How can residents be lTIotivated to take a more active part in efforts to reduce crime in the City? . 3. 00 you view neighborhood/community policing as having a positive effect on reducing crime? If so, what community policing techniques and practices should be implemented and/or enhanced for more effective crime prevention? 4. What programs should be established and/or enhanced so that the following groups will be better informed about crime and its prevention: a. Elementary, middle school, high school youth b. Adults c. Senior citizens d. Visitors SESSION VI CITY GOVERNMENT 1. Do citizens have a perception of city government as being overly bureaucratic? If so, in what ways can the City promote and market more actively its user friendly aspects and other strengths? 2. Is the current structure of the City Commission suitable for guiding the City in the future? If not, what actions are recommended to improve governmental efficiency and responsiveness? 3. Do the City's advisory boards and commissions ensure adequate representative citizen participation? If not, what changes should be made? 4. How can the community overcome the apparent apathy toward community problems that necessitate public involvement and awareness? In what ways can citizens be encouraged to become more involved in and aware of City issues and problems? 5. Are current communication linkages between the City, county, other municipalities, School Board, private business and industry, and the community-at-Iarge sufficient? If not, what actions are necessary to improve communication between and among these groups? \'s . ;:J " ,/ \ ~,\ ~ ~ ' /'''''''',\1,' .., ,. , \/2, < I! ' \ \ ,:\~ / ,- r: .) \ \ . t1 '-~ ' \ iJ '\ \ '. \. \ ' ( \, ' \ \ r (\ i, v \ .~ "J .....\ "- (\ \ , ( " , \. \' \,,",,' SESSION VII EDUCA TIONNOUTH INVOLVEMENT 1. Should the City explore alternative ways to accelerate construction of the Boynton Beach high school? If so, what avenues could be considered? 2. How can the business community, civic and neighborhood organizations, and parents become more proactive in their support for high quality public schools in the City? 3. How do we encourage our youth to become more active in the community? 4. Should opportunities for providing more after-school activities for youth be explored by the City, School Board, businesses, and community organizations? If so, what types of programs are needed, and what sources of funding could be considered? 5. Should financial assistance be made available to families who might have difficulty paying registration fees and dues so that their children can participate in clubs, sports, or other activities? If so, what resources might be used to provide such assistance? INTRODUCTION This paper provides background information on the issues selected for discussion at the "Boynton Beach Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future" Assembly. The Assembly will take place at the Indian River Plantation from May 2 - 4, 1996. The purpose of the Assembly is to establish a shared vision for the future of Boynton Beach, with policy recommendations to move the City toward that goal. The conference will utilize the procedures of a modified American Assembly, a negotiating process by which citizens representing diverse interests in the community participate in the mutual give-and-take of discussion. The American Assembly process provides a body of knowledge, a setting, and a technique for bringing people together to discuss problems, voice opinions, and reach agreement on issues of public policy. The format consists of an opening session followed by small group discussions, with all groups following the same agenda. On the morning of the last day of the Assembly, a plenary session (governed by Robert's Rules of Order) is held for the purpose of adopting a Policy Statement that reflects the opinions of the participants as a whole. A preliminary list of sponsors who have contributed financial support to the Assembly is provided in the attached Appendix. Many organizations and individuals were involved in the planning and preparation of this Assembly. The overall project was coordinated by Sarah Shannon, Director of the Florida Institute of Government at Florida Atlantic University. The agenda issues were developed by the members of the Boynton Beach Vision 20120 Steering Committee, chaired by Robert Hill, CEO of Bethesda Memorial Hospital. The Appendix contains a listing of the Steering Committee members. Primary responsibility for coordinating the Background Paper resided with Jessica Griffin, Research Associate with the FAU/FIU Joint Center for Boynton Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future Background Paper Environmental and Urban Problems, M.J, Matthews and Angela Crooms ot !tit' FAU/FIU Joint Center contributed significantlv to the paper. Special thanks are extended to Carrie Parker. City Manager for the City nt Boynton Beach. Ms. Parker's assistance in coordinating all phases of the Assemblv process has been invaluable. Thanks are also extended to Sergeant Chip Kuss of the Boynton Beach Police Department, Tambri Hevden of the City's Planning Department, and Beth Bailey, the City's Public Information Officer, for assisting with data collection for the Background Paper. Many other departmental personnel were also helpful in this regard. Special thanks also go to Ann Cannon, Program Coordinator of the Florida Institute of Government at FAU, for her comments on drafts of the Background Paper. The views expressed in this paper do not necessarily reflect the position of the Steering Committee or the views of the sponsors. Responsibility for this paper rests solelv with the Florida Institute of Government at FAU and the FAU/FIU Joint Center for Environmental and Urban Problems. While there mav be some redundancy of information, every effort is made to keep this to a minimum. Cross- cutting issues may be covered in greater detail in one section, yet this information will pertain to other sections as well. The purpose of these materials is to provide informed participation in the assembly process, We at the Institute and the Joint Center strongly encourage all Assembly participants to read this document carefully and thoughtfully in preparation for the Boynton Beach Vision 20120 Assembly. Bovnton Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future Background Paper " I. QUALITY OF LIFE/lMAGE AND CHARACTER A. Overview 1. Location and Regional Context The City of Boynton Beach developed around the Intracoastal Waterway in the eastern-central portion of Palm Beach County between West Palm Beach and Boca Raton. With Gulf Stream currents that run just a mile offshore, Boynton is known as "The Gateway to the Gulf Stream." The City has irregular boundaries, but in general is bounded on the north by the towns of Hypoluxo and Lantana, on the south by the City of Delray Beach, on the east by the ,Intracoastal Waterway and the Town of Ocean Ridge, and on the west by unincorporated Palm Beach County. The municipal boundaries of the City contain approximately 15.26 square miles, or roughly 10,200 acres. Boynton Beach is 15 minutes south of the Palm Beach International Airport. The airport and the Port of Palm Beach are considered two of the County's prime assets. The airport is Florida's fifth busiest and recently underwent an extensive $188 million renovation. The Port of Palm Beach is located on Lake Worth in Riviera Beach; nearly half the sugar produced in the state passes through this port. Tri-Rail, the south Florida region's commuter train system, runs the 67 miles between West Palm Beach and Miami, with a stop in Boynton Beach. 2. Historical Overview The City is named for Major Nathan Smith Boynton, a Civil War officer and former Mayor of Port Huron, Michigan, who first arrived in the area in 1894. He purchased a large tract of land on the beach ridge and built a 50-room resort hotel there in 1895 for use as a home and to house visiting acquaintances from the north. Boynton Vision 20120: Planning Our Future Background Paper 3 Settlement increased in the area follmving the I H94 construction at Henry Flagler ", Florida East Coast Railroad. which provided service from Davtona to Miami. Bv the turn of the century, buildings began to appear on Ocean Avenue. Bayman',,> main street. originallv a sand road running through the center of tmvn directh' to \1ajor Bovnton's hotel and the Atlantic Ocean, The City contained a school, a general store. a post office, and a church. The City of Boynton Beach incorporated in 1920 and, along "vith most of ">out h Florida, experienced a building boom during that decade, Addison Mizner, a leading architect in Palm Beach County, built the Boynton Woman's Club in 1925 as a memorial to Major Boynton. The Club remains an example of Mizner's Spanish- Mediterranean style and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, as IS the City's 1913 Elementary SchooL . - Prior to World War II, Boynton's economy was primarily agriculturally-based and consisted mainly of pineapple and tomato crops, Mter the war. tourism took hold In the area. and national prosperity enabled more people to vacation, build winter homes, and retire in Boynton, By 1958, the "Drift Fishing Capital of the World" \Va" home to 5,000 permanent residents and 2,000 seasonal visitors, In the I 46()" condominium apartments were constructed on vacant land near the center of town During the late 1960s, residential deyelopment expanded westward into former dairy- farm land; this practice continues today. Major growth occurred throughout rhe 1980s when the total number of housing units increased by 41 o/n, Bovnton Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future Background Paper , .. B. Demographics I. Population According to the 1990 U.S. Census data, the City's population totaled 46,194 persons. The City's projected population is expected to reach build-out at 78,232 in the year 2010, requiring a total of 39,965 dwelling units. 2, Age and Racial/Ethnic Distribution The most recent data (1990 U.S. Census) reveal that the largest percentage of Boynton Beach residents, at 30%, are 65 and older. The next largest group, 27%, are between 25 and 44 years old. Those ages five to 24 make up about 20% of the City's residents, while 17% are 45 to 64. Only 6% are under five years of age. The median age is 42.7 years, compared to 39.9 years for the County. The following table shows the age trends for the City's populations from 1980 to 1990. AGE TRENDS A~e Group 1980 1990 0-14 years 5,685 7,117 15-24 years 3,824 4,584 25-44 years 6,262 12,544 45-64 years 6,986 7,952 65 + years 12,867 13,997 TOTAL 35,624 46,194 Source: 1980 and 1990 U.S, Census, As the table shows, the 25-44 age group has experienced the largest Increase In growth, The population of the City is ethnically diverse with minorities comprising nearly 22% of the total. Demographics from the 1990 U.S. Census indicate that 78% of Boynton's residents are White, 20% are Mrican American, 1 % are Asian, less than Boynton Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future Background Paper 5 11)/0 are American Indian, and 1 % are people of other races I numbers may not T or ai, 100% due to rounding), 3. Income Levels of Residents According to the 1990 U.S. Census, there were 20,292 households in Bovnton Beach, Median household income totaled $28,824 in 1989. compared with the County's at $32.524, and the State's at $27,483. Of the 4,433 families with children under age 18 in the City, 622 (14%) were living below the poverty level at that time 6% of all families lived below poverty in Boynton compared with 12% in Palm Beach County a!,d 9% throughout Florida. C, Land Use 1. Overview A low-density, low-rise community, Boynton Beach grew from its roots as a retirement haven into a full-service city. It is now home to an expansive and diverse population, including an increasing number of young families, locating particularlv In the western reaches of the City, According to the most recent data available from the City's Planning Department. the City encompasses about 10,200 acres, Over 5.000 acres are developed, more than 2,700 acres are undeveloped, and approximately 2,400 acres consist primarilv of dedicated rights-of-way and water management tracts, This does not include land adjacent to the City. 2. Residential Uses In Boynton Beach, residential uses comprise the largest single category of land uses, with 66% or 6,793 acres of all property and nearly 72% of the developed property falling into this category, Single-family dwellings account for the majority Bovnton Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future Background Paper h of the area in residential use. Following the national trend toward higher housing costs and lower household sizes, the proportion of multi-family developments in the City increased throughout the late 1970s and early 1980s. Housing is available in a variety of styles, price ranges, and configurations: there are planned unit developments (PUDs), condominiums, apartments, retirement villages, gated communities, country club estates, waterfront sites, and single-family homes in quiet, residential neighborhoods. Mobile homes represent a small portion of residential uses. 3. Commercial V ses According to the most recent data, 1,368 net acres, or 14% of all City property and 9% of developed property are zoned for commercial use. About 629 acres of vacant commercial land exists in the City, including acreage in Quantum Corporate Park, a 610-acre planned industrial development (PID). The last major component of commercial development in Boynton Beach is expected to occur south of the Boynton Beach Mall between Boynton Beach Boulevard, Congress Avenue, and Old Boynton Road. The pattern of commercial land uses in Boynton Beach is similar to that found in Florida's other coastal communities. While V.S, 1 is considered the historical commercial corridor, this area declined somewhat as the population center shifted westward. Commercial uses along U.S. 1 consist primarily of neighborhood-oriented stores and services. Because the City grew more slowly than neighboring cities prior to the 1970s, the Central Business District, located in the vicinity of U.S, 1 and Boynton Beach Boulevard, did not develop substantially. However, according to the City's comprehensive plan, as the population continues to expand and the economic base diversifies, the demand for offices and hotels is expected to increase. The Boynton Beach Mall, opened in October of 1985, serves a regional population of approximately 328,000 residents. A focal point of the community, the Boynton Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future Background Paper 7 mall is anchored by five major department stores, including Burdines, rC Pennn Macy's, Mervyn's, and Sears, plus more than 145 specialtv shops and other amemtlC''' Negotiations are underway for Dillard's to locate there as well, 4. Industrial Uses According to the City's comprehensive plan, Boynton Beach and south Palm Beach Countv have a labor force and level of economic activitv sufficient to stimulate . . large-scale industrial development. Currently. there are 964 acres designated tor industrial uses in the City, of which 248 acres are developed and occupYing 291) of ail property,. and 5% of developed property, At build-out, industrial uses are estimated to comprise 9% of the area within city limits, Currently, it is estimated that more than 60 light industries are located in Boynton Beach. In addition to Motorola,,; paging equipment, these industries manufacture paper processing machines, wood and metal products, cosmetics, radio equipment, and electric switches. Some of these industries, including Motorola, are located in Quantum Corporate Park. which contains acreage zoned for industrial uses, 5. Other Uses In the Public and Private Governmental/Institutional Land Use category, 214 acres of the 289 acres zoned for these uses are developed. Such uses include public schools, City-owned property, and the 28.7 acres occupied by Bethesda Memorial Hospital. Recreational land uses comprise 661 acres. This includes the Recreational Zoning District, consisting of 146 acres of developed public parks, 82 acres of undeveloped public parks, 33 acres of private recreation sites, and 218 acres of private golf courses The remaining acreage lies within vacant land (42 acres designated for potential public park sites), rights-of-way, water management tracts, and the waters of Lake Bovnton Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future Background Paper '>.: Worth and the Intracoastal Waterway. (The City's parks and recreation areas and programs are described more fully below.) Only one parcel has an agricultural use, although the property is zoned Low Density Residential. This is the 90-acre site in the northwest corner of the City owned by Knollwood Orange Groves. There is also a Conservation Overlay District consisting of 295 acres of undeveloped land/native habitat sites in Boynton Beach. Approximately 75% of the highest quality areas will be preserved either through the development approval process or through public acquisition. D. City Services City Departments include Development, Finance, Fire, Golf Course, Human Resources (formerly Personnel), Information Technology Services (formerly Data Processing), Library, Planning, Police, Public Works, Recreation and Parks, Utilities, and the City Manager's, City Attorney's, and City Clerk's Offices. For the current fiscal year (1995-96), the City has 744 full-time and 91 part-time employees. The City Utilities Department provides drinking (tap) water, stormwater management, and sewage collection services to residents. The Public Works Department provides garbage/trash collection services, animal control services, and operated the City garage. In addition, the Transportation Authority in the Public Works Department operates a bus service to increase the number of destinations within Boynton Beach that can be reached through public transportation. The following also provide services within the City: . BellSouth--telephone service; . Florida Power and Light--electric service; . Florida Public Utilities Company--liquid and natural gas; and . five cable companies--cable television. Boynton Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future Background Paper 9 The Boynton Beach City Librarv is a popular 28,OOO-square-foot facilitv, constructed through a general obligation bond approved bv the voters in the mld- 1980s, The current collection includes 127,285 items, of which 120.353 are books and 6,932 are media-related, The library has plans for a number of projects, including remodeling, technological upgrades. and additional space requirement" Financing is being sought through State grants. a joint venture with the nonprofit group Friends of the Library, and through the City's Capital Improvement Budget Other funding sources may be needed, such as a general obligation bond issue approved by the voters. Currently, there are five public elementary schools, one public middle school, and one technical school in Boynton Beach. Neighborhood high school students attend one of three high schools in surrounding cities, The Palm Beach County School Board has plans to construct a new high school in Quantum Corporate Park. For more details on the issues related to education in Boynton, please see Chapter V of this Background Paper. E. Parks and Recreation 1. Overview Consideration of a community's quality of life is incomplete without a discussion of recreational opportunities; community development encompasses the growing need for leisure-oriented activities. In Boynton Beach. a wide range of facilities are available. including, but not limited to, parks, playgrounds. athletic fields and couns, picnic facilities, nature preserves, community centers, and the municipal golf course A map and "facilities locator" ~re included in the Appendix. These facilities offer a broad program of activities to meet the needs of Boynton's diverse population, Bovnton Vision 20120: Planning Our Future Background Paper IU The Parks Division of the City's Recreation and Parks Department is responsible for grounds maintenance of over 130 service locations, both within city limits and in the reserve annexation area. Of these, 24 are City parks, 19 are athletic fields, and 20 are municipal grounds. Other service areas include cemeteries, vacant lots, undeveloped City property, rights-of-ways, and medians. The Urban Forestry section of the Division is responsible for the City's role as a Tree City U.S.A. for the past 11 years. The section oversees the Tree Memorial Fund, which has collected more than $10,000 for tree plantings, and the Adopt-A-Tree program, which has resulted in the annual planting of more than 300 trees on private residential property during the past 11 ye.ars. During this fiscal year, the Parks Division assumed maintenance of two new parks, Meadows and Boynton Lakes. Landscape beautification projects were completed on Woolbright Road, North Federal Highway, and South Congress Avenue medians. Veterans Park on Ocean Avenue was recently renovated, and the C-16 Canal Linear Park is now completed and is called Palmetto Greens Park. The Parks Division continues to place emphasis on beautification and landscape projects while maintaining existing facilities. The Recreation Division operates 11 recreational facilities, including the Art Center, Madsen Senior Center, Civic Center, Ezell Hester Community Center, Racquet Center, Royal Palm Clubhouse, Wilson Center, Wilson Pool, Sara Sims Park, Boat Club Park, Oceanfront Park, and several athletic fields. The Recreation Division offers more than 460 programs and services annually, attracting more than one million visitors to all recreation sites. Additionally, the Division offers an Mter- school Latchkey Program for 120 children 'at Poinciana and Rolling Green Schools. Examples of special events and projects aimed at community involvement include the annual Boynton G.A.L.A. (Great American Love Mfair), the annual Holidav Parade, the Boynton Centennial Celebration, and the Let's Build a Playground Boynton Vision 20120: Planning Our Future Background Paper II project. In addition, the Citv's Recreation and Parks Board provides citizen mpuT and makes recommendations to the City Commission regarding Recreation and Park" programming and facility development, Board representation includes a variety ill age groups, and members have experience in and knowledge of recreation program" community special events, and/or park and facility design, development. and maintenance, The Recreation and Parks Department also publishes Funfare!, which is "direct mailed" three times a year to more than 30,000 area households, Funfare! is designed to keep citizens and area residents updated on Citv government and communIty news, as well as library, recreationaL and educational programs, The publication includes many helpful telephone numbers, a map with a "facilities locator." and the schedule of City board meetings, The Boynton Beach Golf Course Department is responsible for the Citvs championship course which is located in the unincorporated area west of the city limits at S020 Jog Road between Gateway Boulevard to the south and Hvpoh.LXO Road to the north. The City leases 156 total acres from Palm Beach County for the golf course (the lease costs $1!year for 99 years with an option to renew for another 99 years at $1!year). There are 122 acres of maintained grass, I7 acres oflakes (eight lakes). ten acres including rights-of-way that are not maintained, and seven acres of buildings and paved areas. The City owns the access road to the golf course site and the operations of the course, such as the IS-hole Par 71 championship course, the lI_ hole Par 30 executive course, a five-acre driving range, two practice greens, and associated facilities, The City's Golf Course has a large and expanding client base and there are plans to renovate and refurbish some of the greens and facilities. The Department is committed to creating and refining programs for beginning golfers expert golfers, juniors, retirees, and working people throughout the City Bovnton Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future Background Paper 2, Funding Considerations The majority of financial support for the maintenance and development of parks and recreation facilities in Boynton Beach comes from ad valorem tax revenues; however, other sources may include land dedications, user fees, and land donations. Financing may also be received through general obligation bonds, Community Development Block Grants, the Florida Recreation Development Assistance Program, and the Florida Land and Water Conservation Fund. User fees may be collected from rent of community centers, arts and crafts classes, sports leagues and education, and preschool and adult education. Finally, annexations and impact fee policies may make open and recreational spaces available to both existing and new city residents. F. Cultural Amenities Many cultural activities and amenities are available to the residents of Boynton Beach throughout Palm Beach County. For example, the Raymond F. Kravis Center for the Performing Arts in West Palm Beach hosts world-class symphonies, ballet, opera, and jazz. Palm Beach Community College in Palm Beach Gardens houses the Edward M. Eissey Campus Theatre, a lSO-seat facility. The West Palm Beach Auditorium and the Florida Atlantic University Auditorium, both with seating for over 2,000, offer concerts, plays, operas, and recitals. There is also the Griswold Theater at F AU, the Caldwell Theater Company and Playhouse in Boca Raton, Royal Poinciana in Palm Beach, and Lois Pope Theater in Manalapan where plays and musicals are performed. There are a number of museums in the County as well, including the new International Museum of Cartoon Art, which opened its doors at Mizner Park in Boca Raton on March 10th; the Norton Gallery of Art and the South Florida Science Museum in West Palm Beach; the Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens in Boynton Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future Background Paper 13 Delray Beach; and FAU's Ritter An Gallen: and the Boca Raton Museum of An. bOTh in Boca Raton, G. Community Appearance and Design I. Code Enforcement and Community Appearance Codes Code enforcement protects the health. safety. and welfare residents and ensure" the upkeep and maintenance of a community, Code enforcement in Boynton Beach is the responsibility of a specific unit attached to the Police Department (code enforcement is discussed in more detail in other chapters). The Citv's ne,v community appearance code, approved on April 2, 1996. sets minimum standards for everything from the height of grass in front yards to fading and blistered paint on exterior walls of structures. The new code applies to both residential and commercial properties. and is designed to foster community pride by regulating the upkeep of properties in Boynton Beach, 2. Community Appearance Programs and Plans City leaders have initiated a number of projects aimed at developing a set of goal" and designing feasible strategies for meeting the future needs of Boynton's resident~ Four of these projects, described below. focus on both desirable community design/redevelopment and on the provision of essential services into the 21 st cent un' These projects are discussed in other chapters of this paper as well, The next <.;tep toward implementing the strategies for achieving the City's goals is the convening nf this Assembly, Boynton Beach Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future, a. The 1984 Community Redevelopment Plan In the early 1980s, the City designated part of the downtown area a~ d redevelopment area under Chapter 163 of the Florida Statutes. The Communnv Bovnton Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future Background Paper ! ,.1 Redevelopment Plan outlines the needs of the area and the methods for rehabilitation and redevelopment. Included in this redevelopment process is the use of adequate design and development controls. This plan is discussed in more detail in Chapter II of this Background Paper. b. The 1988 Community Redevelopment Plan In 1988, the City expanded the boundaries of the original community redevelopment area (CRA) to include a primarily residential portion of the downtown area. This redevelopment plan concentrates on neighborhood revitalization and preservation of the residential character of the area. This plan is discussed in more detail in Chapter III of this Background Paper. c. The 1994 Downtown Charrette--Redevelopment and Revitalization Plan From September 9th to September 16th, 1994, an intensive planning workshop, or "Design Charrette," took place at the Art Center in Boynton Beach. A cross- section of the community participated in this public charrette, which focused on the citizens' view of the future growth and form of the downtown. With assistance from the Treasure Coast Regional Planning Council, the citizens voiced their preferred vision for the City, emphasizing the downtown. These recommendations were then outlined in a document issued in December of 1994 and entitled "The City of Boynton Beach Redevelopment and Revitalization Plan." d, Three (3) to Five (5) Year Strate&ic Plannin& Initiatives In June 1995, the City developed a three- to five-year Strategic Planning Document with departmental input. The document provided information about "substantive priority issues," including the downtown, public safety, education, business development, and neighborhood revitalization, as well as the goals, strategies, and estimated costs of achieving desired results in each of the priority areas. Departmental missions, priorities, goals, and objectives were also identified. Boynton Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future Background Paper 15 The goals established for the Downtown are: (1) bv the year 2001, to have a ;' c:; ", increase in resident and visitor use of City parks, parking garage, and retail businesse" with emphasis on the Ocean Avenue corridor; and (2) by the vear 2001, to have ') 5u/i, buildout of the Ocean Avenue corridor. as demonstrated bv an east end marina anchor development and a west end "Boynton Cultural Centre" development fhe east end marina project is to occur in three phases: 1) acquisition of propeny and installation of pedestrian-friendh' improvements; 2) installation of waterfront improvements; and 3) building of mixed-use retaiVresidential improvements (based on the . Mizner Park concept). The west end Cultural Centre project also has three phases: I) completion of the 1913 Boynton Schoolhouse Children's Museum and adjacent Leathers Park; 2) destruction and replacement of the Civic Center; and 3) completion of the piazza, The Cultural Centre is anticipated to need $1,25 million bv December 1997 for construction alone: the City has budgeted $300,000 in general funds, $550,000 is available through a grant, and $385,000 is still needed, Projected maintenance and operations costs, totaling $140,000 annually, will include, among other things. $20,000 for recurring costs (landscaping), $20,000 for utilities. and two staff people An additional $500,000 to $700,000 will be required for furnishings and exhibitions This pan of the Cultural Centre project covers renovation of the It) I '~ schoolhouse only. The 1927 high school, if selected for preservation. would require an additional four to five million dollars for renovation, At this time there have been no decisions made regarding funding for renovations or demolishing the building and replacing it with a new building. Bovnton Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future Background Paper h Projected needs in the other priority areas addressed in the Strategic Planning Documentui.e., business development, neighborhood revitalization, public safety, and education--are discussed in the remaining chapters of this Background Paper. H. Promoting Community Unity City leaders understand the importance of a strong partnership between city government, members of the business community, and residents to enhance citizen participation, ensure the efficient provision of essential services, and revitalize Boynton'~ neighborhoods. The City is in the process of establishing an integrated, interdepartmental approach to these issues, and the efforts should assist in promoting community unity. Broad implementation of community policing (described in Chapter IV) is one of the City's current outreach goals that also utilizes community participation. Other opportunities for citizen involvement include the volunteer Residential and Business Crime Watch groups designed to involve residents in crime prevention. The City is taking other steps to enhance community unity and neighborhood problem-solving. For example, the newly established position of Neighborhood Specialist is expected to function as a community liaison by coordinating the efforts of code enforcement, sanitation, community policing, and the paint up/fix up home improvement program. The Neighborhood Specialist will interact with existing homeowner/neighborhood associations and help in the formation of new associations, where needed. One of the most common forms of citizen participation is through involvement with one's neighborhood or homeowner/civic association. Presently, there are three neighborhood associations and approximately 50 to 60 homeowner/condominium associations in Boynton Beach. Another form of participation includes service on one of the City's Advisory Boards (described in Chapter VI) which provide direct input to the City Commission. Boynton Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future Background Paper 17 City staff, church groups, service organizations. and others can also make significam contributions toward uniting the communitv Moreover, the City offers manv opportunities for residents to come together in a community-oriented atmosphere and enjov what Bovnton Beach has to offer. rht' City is cultivating and encouraging corporate sponsorship of local events to help promote community unity. The efforts of the Greater Boynton Beach Chamber ot Commerce and the Business Development Board of Palm Beach County are aho essential to a thriving Boynton Beach, Finally, many communitv recreational activities are available in Boynton Beach, as described elsewhere in this paper. I. Issues and Needs Participants in this Boynton Beach Assembly are asked to determine the future course for their City, hinging, in part, on issues and needs raised throughout this Background Paper. For example, Chapter II outlines various methods for stimulating economic development and commercial revitalization, noting that existing and future land uses are key to shaping a city's image, character. and growth, Citv leaders need to know the types of businesses and growth desired bv Boynton's residents, Some of the needed redevelopment in Boynton Beach will occur through private market forces. Public action could involve promoting the passage of a citv-wide referendum for additional annexations or for a bond issue to help finance the cost of improvements and services. Public involvement can also take the form of encouraging neighbors and business owners to meet the minimum standards set bv the new community appearance regulations, Other issues and needs in the area of Quality of Life/Image and Character mav be suggested in the discussion of the 10 components of the Civic Index in the laST chapter, City Government, and elsewhere. In summary, these issues may include: Bovnton Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future Background Paper ," . encouraging more active civic involvement on the part of citizens living in the single-family residential neighborhoods through newsletters or active homeowner associations; . reaching out to the younger members of the community through such things as providing volunteer community-service opportunities, creating more safe, social opportunities for youth on evenings and weekends, and/or forming a Youth Council; . installing better signage at the gateways to the City; . advocating better intergroup relations and intergovernmental coordination; . cultivating corporate sponsorship of events, philanthropic activity, and citizen volunteerism; . accelerating tourism-related development; . forming a "Council of Boynton Beach Civic Associations" representing neighborhood and civic associations throughout the City; . providing input and direction to the Palm Beach County Economic Development Board regarding the manner in which the City is promoted, marketed, and advertised; and . promoting the development of a "response and recruitment team" in the form of a publidprivate partnership that may include members of the Greater Boynton Chamber of Commerce, elected officials, and City employees, who would serve as a reception group for potential new businesses to help market the City's strengths and user-friendly aspects. A growing community demands quality recreational programs and facilities. Boynton Beach recognized the importance of parks and recreation facilities during the 1970s when a general obligation bond was approved by voters to improve the park system. The Recreation and Parks Department plans to continue developing City parks and recreation facilities in accordance with the Recreation and Open Space element of the Comprehensive Plan. For example, the development of a number of landscape medians throughout Boynton Beach will receive capital funding from the City, the County, and the State, with the City contributing annual maintenance funding. Furthermore, the Department has plans to complete a feasibility study for the site location and design of a new cividcommunity center in the central or southern portion of the City, thus replacing the existing Civic Center. The construction of such a multi-purpose recreation center would possibly be funded Boynton Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future Background Paper 19 through a general obligation bond, A bond issue would also be the primary mean,> iI! funding the Optimist Park, although the Optimist Club has presented the City with d fund-raising plan. In addition. the County Commission has provided the City ,vnh two million dollars to fund construction of the Intracoastal Park site Master plans for these sites. as well as the undeveloped acreage at Congress Avenue CommunIty Park, have been completed, Boynton Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future Background Paper ~(\ II. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT/COMMERCIAL REVITALIZATION A. Overview The primary goals of economic development are job creation/retention, fiscal improvement, and physical improvement. Commercial revitalization is a part of economic development that concentrates on the private business sector of a communitv, Economic development involves the expansion of a community's tax base to encourage growth and develop a diverse mix of employment opportunities. This requires the recruitment of new businesses to the community, as well as the retention of existing businesses. In order to facilitate economic development, as well as commercial revitalization, it is important to understand what businesses are looking for when deciding where to locate. Listed below are some factors that influence businesses' locational decisions: . access to a variety of low-cost transportation modes; . geographic location in proximity to manufacturing and markets; . production costs; . availability, productivity, and cost of both skilled and unskilled labor; . low union profile; . quality of life; . political climate and stability of local and state government; . taxes; . government incentives; . local business climate; . site costs; . condition and availability of inf!astructure; and . energy costs and availability. These factors can serve as guidelines for a community to assess its strengths and weaknesses in terms of attracting new businesses and retaining existing businesses. Boynton Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future Background Paper 21 The next section IS a broad overview of economic development tool... and programs, This is followed bv a description of Bovnton Beach mcluding 1 he economIC development programs currentlv in place, Finallv, the economIC development issues and concerns of Bovnton Beach are summarized B. Economic Development Tools and Programs There are a variety of methods and programs that a city can use to encourage economic growth and development, Most economic development programs at the local level require a mixture of tools and methods, depending upon the goals of the community, Some of these methods are discussed below (there is a degree of overlap among these methods and programs), 1. Land Use and Regulatory Reform Land use patterns determine the shape, SIze, and character of a city and direct future growth. A community defined as a "bedroom communitv" or zoned primarilv for residential use will not have the designated land required for economic grO\vth On the other hand, a high percentage of industrial or commercial land uses ,vill discourage residential development. A community needs a balanced mix of uses, including housing opportunities, businesses, industries, recreational and conservation areas, and other uses that reflect the needs of the community and the residents In that community. A diverse mix of valuable and stable land uses expands the tax base and distributes the burden of taxes among the various entities, Land use regulations, in addition to other city regulations and regulatory processes, can serve as tools for economic development when properly implemented and administered, On the other hand, they can act as a deterrent to development in a city, Outdated zoning ordinances that devalue propeny for uses that might be imponant to the economic future of a communitv, as well as cumbersome and Bovnton Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future Background Paper ,),. lengthy development approval processes, can serve as unnecessary obstacles to desirable growth. A review of existing zoning ordinances and modification of these ordinances can change the land use patterns within a community to reflect economic growth goals. A city can also implement more aggressive and flexible land use controls to encourage economic development. Two examples of flexible zoning are: Incentive Zonin~--Incentive zoning is an arrangement whereby local government allows a potential developer to exceed zoning requirements, such as building heights, in exchange for the developer's provision of certain desired project features. Planned Unit Development (PUD)--A PUD is an area of minimum contiguous size, as specified by ordinance, that is planned, developed, operated, and maintained as a single entity and is subject to a separate set of controls. Most PUDs are zoned for residential land use, but some contain a mixture of compatible land uses. The City of Boynton Beach currently has 28 residential PUDs. The City also has six Planned Commercial Developments (PCDs) and four Planned Industrial Developments (PIDs), commercial and industrial versions of PUDs. Regulatory procedures, such as the development review and approval process used by a local government, can also be reviewed for efficiency and adequacy. Streamlining the review process or implementing a "one-stop" permitting process may help encourage new development. 2. Sales and Promotion A community can market itself as a product to encourage investment by businesses. The community, or a designated representative of the community, can engage in a variety of public relations activities designed to attract new businesses to the community and/or retain existing businesses. These activities include advertising, selling, and marketing campaigns, with the goal of providing information pertinent to businesses' locational decisions. The campaigns are often undertaken through joint Boynton Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future Background Paper 23 efforts between local government and the local Chamber ot Commerce. a local convention and tourist bureau. or other private development organizations, r() promote the City of Boynton Beach on a larger scale, the Citv Commission ',,, proposing the purchase of a membership in the Business Development Board of Palm Beach Count\', In addition to the brochures and traditional informational sources that a citv can use to promote itself, there are other options. For example. the Bovnton Beach World Wide Web site, started in February of 1995. provides information about the City and promotes local businesses to the world marketplace. The goal of promotion is to make the City highly visible to as many businesses as possible 3, Subsidization Local governments can use a variety of subsidization tools to attract new businesses to the community. Many projects require more than one subsidy; thus, local governments frequently put together a subsidy package based on a developer's individual needs. Below is a brief description of some of the major subsidies: Tax Abatements--Tax abatements are a waiver of taxes that would otherwise be due. Tax abatements are normally given to real propertv or machinery and are limited to a specified number of years, Tax-exempt Financing--A locality may issue bonds that are exempt from federal and/or state taxes. The bonds can be sold in financial markets at below-market interest rates because the income from the bonds is not taxed, The revenue raised through the bond sale can then be used to finance economic development projects. Loan Assistance--Local governments can exert influence over business- development decisions by assisting developers with the procurement of loans The three most common types of loan assistance are direct loans from local governments, loan guarantees, and second-mortgage assistance, Boynton Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future Background Paper 24 /F 01~~' Facility Infrastructure AssistanceuPublic funding of some or all of the costs associated with property development can attract businesses and stimulate economic development. A local government can issue tax-exempt securities, such as Industrial Revenue Bonds and Industrial Development Bonds, to tlnance the construction or expansion of commercial facilities. 4, Making Sites Available The availability of sites and buildings in a community is a key factor in attracting new businesses and retaining existing businesses. A municipality can provide sites, using public funds to acquire and develop the property. The property is then sold or leased to a firm at a rate that mayor may not reflect a subsidy. Land banking is another example, where land is acquired by a community and then held as a potential commercial site. A citv can coordinate the availability of sites with infill development. For example, a city can assemble vacant properties in a redevelopment area, change the land use designations, if necessary, and develop the property through infrastructure improvements. In this way, businesses are encouraged to locate in areas targeted for infill. 5. Economic Development Programs The previous economic development tools are often used in some combination in economic development programs. Some of these programs are discussed below. Job Trainin~--This is not a major tool for attracting or encouraging the expansion of businesses, but training programs can be used to stimulate employment growth. Some programs can provide local workers with the skills and education necessary to attract a new business to the community. Other programs may provide on-the-job training to help existing businesses expand. Boynton Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future Background Paper 25 Business Incubators--Business incubators provide physical space and ,1 nurturing environment for small businesses in their early, formative qage" Incubators are a system wherebv new businesses share space as well ;(', secretarial, marketing, management, and other services, Many incubators are housed in previously vacant buildings, renovated through public subsidization and rented at below-market cost Community Development Block Grants (CDBG)--Originally designated tor housing projects, infrastructure improvements, and social services. these federal funds can now be used for economic development projects as well, Boynton Beach currently receives CDBG funds through an interlocal agreement with Palm Beach County but expects to become a CDBG entitlement city withll1 the next year. Entitlement status allows a city to apply directlv to the federal government for CDBG funds, An entitlement citv must have a population ot . . 50,000, Tax Increment Financing (TIF)--TIF is a widely used financing mechanism for redevelopment. A TIF district, with designated geographic boundaries, l~ established according to state redevelopment law, The assessed property values of the district are then frozen for a specified period of time (normallv between 10 and 25 years), and this base value remains constant for thf duration of the project. Redevelopment of the area occurs, with the TTF authority using its powers to assemble and sell land, clear sites, and improve infrastructure, This creates an attractive environment for business and other development, The increase in property values generates increased teL\ revenues, which are earmarked for the TIF area and are used to retire debt or pay for the costs associated with redevelopment activities, Bovnton Beach does have a TIF district, which is discussed below, 6. Business Retention and Expansion The existing business and industry base of a community accounts for the majority of employment growth in most communities, Programs that are geared toward existing businesses address the issues that might affect decisions by these compame"i to stay in the community and/or expand, A successful business retention and expansion program consists of three elements: Bovnton Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future Background Paper :21> Inventory-- This involves listing existing businesses by type and determining the basic industries (the ones that serve regional, national, or international markets and are not dependent on the local market). An inventory of business profiles will help determine the goals of an economic development program in a community. Visitation--Designating a city staff representative for site visits to companies establishes a link between businesses and the local government. Personal contact affords an opportunity for discussion between local government representatives and businesses to determine and address existing and potential issues. Follow-up--Follow-up involves continuous and constant monitoring of local economic development programs to ensure their viability and success. One follow-up method is sending established firms newsletters containing information about local assistance programs, taxes, financing mechanisms, laws and regulations, market opportunities, marketing strategies, and new technological advancements. 7, Small and Minority Businesses Small and minority businesses are important to a community's business environment and there are many programs and tools that can be put into place to encourage these types of businesses. An alternative to creating new programs is to use the existing programs and resources. Palm Beach Countv has a number of organizations that target small and minority businesses. The Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at Florida Atlantic University is a government agency that provides business information, education, and assistance to small businesses. The Minority Business Development Center is a nonprofit that provides minority- owned businesses with management and technical assistance, either in starting a business or expanding an existing business. There are also a number of other programs available throughout the County. Bovnton Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future Background Paper 27 8. Assessment of the Consequences of Economic Development Policv Assessing and understanding the effects of economic development policy on d communitv is important, A financial assessment, such as fiscal impacT nr revenue/cost study, is particularlv imponant if the program is centered around property tax relief. A financial assessment study estimates both the new revenue''' from a given development and the new costs that a development is likely to impose on a community. From these estimates a revenue/cost ratio or net benefit (loss) figure is calculated This can provide guidance to the community on whether to pursue econormc development and what type of development to pursue, A study of this nature can also help the community determine what level of subsidization is fiscally realistic Economic development will also have a variety of effects beyond those that a fiscal impact study may reveal, including increased traffic, environmental impacts, housing and rental price increases, and opposition from residents, Therefore, planning for economic development should take these issues into account, C, Infrastructure I. Overview In 1985, the Florida Legislature required that "no development shall occur without the necessary infrastructure in place concurrent with the impacts of such development." This concurrency requirement mandates that all municipalities and counties must plan and arrange financing for infrastructure (capital facilities) prior to the development of new or additional property, Capital improvements include water, sewers, roads, parks and recreation facilities. and public safety, They represent one of the largest annual resource commitments made by a city and have a substantial effect on the economic vitalitv and quality of Bovnton Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future Background Paper -~,~ life in a community. Capital improvements require a significant, continuous financial commitment and eventually require upgrading and/or replacement. Finally, capital improvements are frequently the only way a city can achieve certain long-range goals, such as economic development programs. The City of Boynton Beach maintains long-term planning for capital facilities through its Capital Improvement budget, which is determined according to the Comprehensive Plan. The Comprehensive Plan sets the level of service standards for streets, sanitation, parks and recreation, potable water, sanitary sewer, and drainage, Once these levels are met, projects that improve or maintain a reasonable quality of life are then prioritized according to the Capital Improvement budget. Capital improvements are classified as expenditures of $25,000 or more for the construction, acquisition or installation of facilities or for the acquisition of land. The 1995-1996 Capital Improvement budget includes renovations to City Hall, various park improvements, and library improvements. The City recently opened the West Water Treatment Plant, which has a 20-year capacity. Sewage treatment is shared with the City of Delray Beach through the regional treatment plant. The roads and streets in Boynton Beach are maintained by the Roads and Streets Department under Public Works. The Department of Development also works with the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) and Palm Beach County designing and constructing streets and bridges within the City. The Recreation and Parks Department operates 24 city parks, nine athletic fields, 20 municipal grounds, and 11 recreational facilities. The Police Department consists of 169 employees and 72 vehicles. The Fire Department consists of 98 employees and 10 vehicles, housed in three stations. All fire personnel, with the exception of clerical staff, are cross-trained in fire suppression and as emergency medical technicians. One-third of the personnel are state certified paramedics. Both the Police and Fire Departments are discussed further in Chapter IV of this Background Paper. Boynton Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future Background Paper 29 2. Sources of Revenue Plans for capital facilities/services/infrastructure and revitalization initiatives must be affordable and within the realm of a city's ability to provide financing, There are three basic wavs that local governments can raise tax revenue: through taxes on property, income, and transactions or sales, Florida is one of onlv six states that does not have an individual income tax, Florida also has a property tax restricted bv a I () mill cap (one mill is equal to $1 per $1000 of assessed value) for each individual taxing unit and a $25,000 Homestead Exemption, a. Property-based sources of revenue Ad valorem taxes are a primary source of revenue and are based on a millage rate applied to the total taxable value of all real property (and other tangible personal property), Boynton Beach's 1995 property tax millage rate is 7,92 mills, which has not changed in the past four years. The table below compares Boynton Beach's 1995 millage rate with the 1995 millage rates for selected other municipalities in Palm Beach County, 1995 MILLAGE RATES OF SELECTED CITIES IN PALM BEACH COUNTY City Operating Debt Total Millage MillaJte Service Rate Boynton Beach 7.92 0.48 8.40 Boca Raton 3.24 0.46 3.70 West Palm Beach 8.87 0.95 9.82 Delray Beach 6.87 1.03 7,90 Jupiter 2.15 0 2,15 Source: Palm Beach County Appraiser's Office, The 1995 total taxable value of the existing land in Boynton Beach equaled about $2.05 billion. Of this value, $1.2 billion (58%) is composed of residential land and $861 million (42%) is non-residentiaL Boynton Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future Background Paper 311 b, Non-property taxes and user-based financin& These revenue-raising measures are increasing in use as local governments respond to the need for additional income sources. Franchise FeesnUtilities in Boynton Beach, as in most cities, are franchised bv - . the City to operate. Utility companies, such as Florida Power and Light, pay franchise fees to the City for the privilege of constructing and operating within Boynton Beach. Utility Taxes--Boynton Beach levies a 10% utility tax on electric and metered and bottled gas and 7% on telecommunications. U s€r Fees/Char~es for Services-- This is a charge or fee to transfer the costs of service delivery directly to the individual or group that is the beneficiary of the service. These fees are used to fund water, sewer, and mass transportation; however, their use is expanding to other areas such as public health and hospital service, sanitation, parks and recreation services, parking, and various types of physical infrastructure in subdivision developments. Impact FeesuImpact fees are charges imposed on new development by a local government to fund all or a portion of the public facilities required by the development, or to recoup the costs of existing public facilities improvements made in anticipation of the needs of new development. Impact fees may be used to fund infrastructure and capital needs, but not operating expenses. Both Palm Beach County and Boynton Beach charge impact fees for such things as parks, sewer, water, drainage, roads, and schools. Other Developer Contributions--To gain approval of a project, developers may be required to address certain conditions or make specific contributions determined through ad hoc negotiations with a city. Such conditions can include landscaping or street set-back requirements. Special Assessment Districtsu These are designated areas with financial and administrative arrangements specifying that properties within the area are provided with certain improvements and/or services, which in turn are paid for by the benefiting properties. At this time, there are no special assessment districts in Boynton Beach. Boynton Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future Background Paper 31 Palm Beach Countv Revenue Sources--Shared revenues from Palm Beach County include the local option gas tax, Boynton Beach currentlv uses thega-, tax for road resurfacing, drainage improvements, funding the Streets and Roads Division, and the Citv's Mass Transit Svstem, State and Federal Grants--The Citv may apply for grants at the State andJor Federal level to assist in the generation of needed revenues and for financmg cenain projects, Other Sources--Other sources may include license and permit fees for occupational and development permits. fines and forfeitures, interest earned on city investments, and sale of surplus propeny, c, Borrowin~ Many cities rely on bonds and other forms of borrowing to fund significant infrastructure improvements. By using bonds as a means to finance improvements, the costs of the improvement may be spread out over its life span, and those who benefit from the improvement share its cost. Examples of various forms of borrowing are listed below, General Obligation Bonds (GO bonds)--These bonds require voter approval and may be used to fund special projects such as public building construction and recreation development. For example, Boynton Beach used GO bonds to fund beach improvements, construction of the library, and the renovation and expansion of City Hall. The debt from these bonds may be paid through ad valorem taxes that are separate from and in addition to general fund levies, or bv other means. Revenue Bonds-- These bonds are guaranteed by revenues generated from the facility constructed by the bonds, The persons deriving benefit from the project, in effect, pay for it. Excise Tax Improvement Bonds--These bonds are issued with a guarantee of service tax revenues as backing. Additional Taxes for Dedicated Purposes--A municipality may choose to obtain financing tailored to a specific project or facility In doing so, the citv creates a dedicated source of financing for those projects. Bovnton Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future Background Paper 3 :~ Fixed Contribution to Long-term Capital Improvements--Also known as a sinking fund, this is another option for financing capital facilities improvements. Revenues generated from a variety of sources (i.e., property ad valorem taxes, state funding) are set aside and placed in an interest-yielding fund for the long-term financing of improvements. D. Current Situation in Boynton Beach 1. Current Land Use As previously stated, the land use in a community determines the pattern and type of growth. Currently, 66% of the land in Boynton Beach is zoned for residential use and 34% zoned for non-residential use. Annexations of land through interlocal agreements increase the City's tax base and population. A population of 50,000 would qualify the City for increased funding sources, such as CDBG. Since 1993, the City has annexed over 250 acres. Some of the larger areas annexed by the City include: · Royal Manor Mobile Home Estates, 85 acres annexed in 1994; · Lawrence Oaks, a residential PUD of 42.10 acres under constmction, annexed in 1995; · Sausalito Place, an undeveloped residential PUD of 31.34 acres, annexed in 1995; · Knollwood Groves, 30 acres of agricultural land, annexed in 1994; and · Palm Beach Groves, 19.77 acres of agricultural land, annexed in 1994. Future annexations will require both a City referendum and a referendum by the residents of the unincorporated area to be annexed, with a majority vote, However, there are a few remaining parcels that can be annexed through utility service agreements and enclaves. Boynton Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future Background Paper 33 2. Future Land Use As the cornerstone of the 1989 Bovnton Beach Comprehensive Plan, the Future Land Use Element outlines the principles and performance standards to be followed for the control and distribution of land development intensitv and population densities, These land guidelines are presented as statements of goals, objectives, and policies intended to provide the citizens and officials of the Citv 'vvith an effective framework for managing and directing the City's future development, The principles and standards for implementing the Future Land Use Plan are specifically defined in the City's land development regulations, such as the zoning code and subdivision requirements. Land development regulations are the foremost means of implementing the guidelines to the Future Land Use Element. The following table shows the breakdown of land usage in the City and the developed and undeveloped (vacant) acreage for each use, The totals include the property designated for right-of-way, drainage, and other purposes. The information is from the updated future land use figures prepared bv the Citv Planninl!; Department , Boynton Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future Background Paper ~,~ lAND USE DESIGNATIONS WITHIN THE CITY OF BOYNTON BEACH Land Use Acres % of Total Acreage Residential Total. 6,793 66% Developed 3,635 Undeveloped 1,439 Commercial Total. 1,368 14% Developed 459 Undeveloped 629 v Industrial Total. 964 9% Developed 248 Undeveloped 497 A2:ricultural Total. 93 1% Developed 87 Undeveloped 0 Recreational Total. 661 7% Developed 373 Undeveloped 134 InstitutionaVGovt, Total. 289 3% Developed 214 Undeveloped 21 TOTAL ACREAGE. 10,168 100% '"Total includes right-of-way, drainage, and other property uses not accounted for in the developed and undeveloped categories, According to the 1989 Comprehensive Plan, the City will reach a build-out population of 78,232 in the year 2010, requiring a total of 39,965 dwelling units. These numbers are currently under review and may be adjusted. 3. Business and Workforce Profile The following table provides information about the labor force in Boynton Beach. The numbers include all employed persons over the age of 16. Boynton Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future Background Paper 35 WORKFORCE PROFILE Occupation # % of Total Professional 4,808 25% Sales 6,156 31% Service 3,945 20% Laborer 4,674 24% TOTAL 19,583 100% Source: 1990 U.S. CensllS. The table below shows the 1989 median household income for Bovnton Beach lI1 comparison to Palm Beach County and Florida, 1989 MEDIAN HOUSEHOLD INCOME 1989 Median Household I Income Boynton Beach $28,824 Palm Beach County $35,524 Florida $27,483 Source: 1990 U.S, Census. There are over 2,700 businesses in Boynton Beach. As of September 1995, there were 3,507 occupational license renewal forms issued; from this list. It is difficult to ascenain the exact number of businesses by business tyPe; however, according to the 1992 Economic Census, there are 433 retail trade establishments in the Citv, H9 wholesale trade establishments, and 508 service establishments, The numbers for other types of establishments are not currently available, Commercial development in Boynton Beach, including retail and office facilities. is concentrated mainly along the principal streets such as Boynton Beach Boulevard U,S, 1, and Congress Avenue. Older commercial areas are found east of 1-95 along Boynton Beach Boulevard, Ocean Avenue, and U,S, 1, with the development in these areas composed mostly of small strip centers and freestanding retail. service. and office facilities, BO\'Tlton Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future Background Paper '31'1 There are newer and larger developments, such as the Boynton Beach Mall, located west of 1-95 in the Congress Avenue corridor. The Boynton Beach Mall, one of three major malls in Palm Beach County and the entire Treasure Coast region, covers more than 108 acres and has 1.2 million square feet of retail space. Even after the tough holiday retail season, mall occupancy remained at 97%. There are plans for a sixth department "anchor" store and a two-floor parking garage; those structures will increase the mall's area by at least 15%. Quantum Corporate Park, a 610-acre planned industrial development (PID), offers a mix of sites for office, research and development, light industrial, distribution, and commercial uses in a setting of parks, fitness paths, and 12 interconnected lakes and nature preserves. Currently, the majority of the property is developed or approved for development, and 41 % (248 acres) is undeveloped. Motorola, Publix, Allstate, and Canada Dry are among the corporations located there. 4. Downtown Development The downtown area is part of the Coastal Area designated by the City's Comprehensive Plan as an area in need of redevelopment. The commercial portions of the Coastal area are characterized by large numbers of obsolete structures and small land parcels. Vacancy rates are low; however, many of the buildings house marginal or low-quality businesses paying low rents. In order to facilitate redevelopment of this area, the City established the Boynton Beach Community Redevelopment Agency in 1982 and designated the boundaries of the downtown redevelopment area, also called the Community Redevelopment Area or CRA (Res. #82-KK). The City expanded the CRA boundaries later in 1982 (Res. #82-BBBB), and again in 1984 (Res. #84-11). In 1987, the City expanded the CRA further (Resolution No. 87 -QQQ) to include a primarily residential portion of the downtown area (this area is discussed in the following chapter). The total acreage in the entire Bovnton Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future Background Paper 37 CRA is approximately 666 acres, In 1985 (Ord. #85-27), the env COmnllSS1illl designated pan of this area as the central business district (CBD), which present" contains 101.03 acres, The CBD is located between the Florida East Coast Raihva\' and the Intracoastal Waterway, and is bounded on the nonh bv NE 7th Avenue and on the south bv SE 2nd Avenue. The Community Redevelopment Plan of 1984 outlines the redevelopment goab for the CRA and the downtown area. The overall market strategy ot the redevelopment plan 1S to "create a downtown center with a unIque retail/entenainment environment through a waterfront orientation," In 1994, the City held a Downtown Charrette to discuss development of the downtown area and produced the Redevelopment and Revitalization Plan based on the outcome Downtown development is also one of the five areas of emphasis set forth in the City's 1995-1996 budget and the Strategic Planning Document of 1995 (please refer to Chapter I), Redevelopment m the CBD and the CRA is funded through tax increment financing (see the above description), authorized under Chapter 163 of the Florida Statutes, The property tax revenues generated by the increased tax base are used 1lI part, to finance three City staff positions (two community redevelopment staff and the former Downtown Development Coordinator position), The following table shows the TIF revenues over the past five years, TIF REVENUES Year Amount 1995/1996 $158,398 1994/1995 $141 . 166 1993/1994 $126,534 1992/1993 $158,859 1991/1992 $205,899 1 990/1 991 $197,225 Source: Boynton Beach Finance Department. Boynton Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future Background Paper )r\ Development of the new city center running from Seacrest Boulevard along Ocean Avenue to the Intracoastal includes two anchor projects: the west end cultural area and the east end marina project. The west end project includes restoration of the 1913 elementary school, a community playground, and a new civic center. The east end project involves the development of the proposed marina, which includes waterfront improvements and mixed-use/residential improvements. The first phase of the west end project, restoration of the school, is included in the 1995-1996 budget and the playground has been completed. These projects are intended to revitalize the downtown and encourage economic activity. In order to facilitate development of the marina, the City Commission raised the height limit of buildings in the CBD from 45 feet to 100 feet, subject to conditional use approval. The City is also exploring the waiving of building permit and utility fees for the project, funding infrastructure improvements, and expediting the permitting process. The proposed marina project currently includes, 300 condominiums, two areas of shops and restaurants, and a parking garage. At this time, the developer has not finalized the plans; the project will be presented to the City Commission in May of 1996. In conjunction with the marina project, the new Ocean Avenue Bridge is expected to be completed by the year 2000. The 1994 Downtown Charrette emphasized the importance of designing a bridge that is both aesthetically pleasing and functional for cars, pedestrians, and bicycles. The Florida Department of Transportation is funding this project. Other economic development programs targeting the downtown area include a facade improvement loan program for the 500 block of Ocean Avenue. Money has been set aside in the 1995-1996 budget for this program. "Tune Down to Downtown," a new program proposed in the 1995-1996 budget, is designed to increase the visibility of the downtown merchants, to provide a networking Boynton Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future Background Paper 39 opponunity for professionals in the downtown area. and to provide a social outlet t< I[ the residents of the City, 5. Other Economic Development Programs in Boynton Beach The Greater Boynton Beach Chamber of Commerce, consisting of over 600 members, is instrumental in the promotion of the City. The Citv is current Iv working with the local Chamber of Commerce to develop a response and recruitment team consisting of elected officials, city employees, and Chamber members to serve a<; a reception group to approach and educate prospective businesses As previously mentioned, the Chamber also has a World Wide Web site to promote the Citv In addition the City has joined the Business Development Board of Palm Beach Countv The 1995-1996 City budget includes the creation of a new position entitled Economic Development Coordinator, whose responsibilities will include encouraging economic development and continuing the revitalization of the downtown area, In addition, the City's 1995-1996 budget includes $600,000 set aside in the Utility Fund to pay water and sewer impact fees for eligible projects. The Citv Commission will develop the specific criteria for fund disbursement. Finally, both the City's Planning Depanment and the Depanment ot Development are working on ways to streamline the development approval process 111 order to expedite permitting and facilitate project development. The two depanments are writing a Developer's Guide to the Ci~. The guide will walk developers through City procedures such as zoning, environmental review, master planning, site planning, platting, and construction. In addition, the guide will describe reviews and permitting by other agencies, and contain a fee schedule and sample development order, Boynton Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future Background Paper 4/1 E. Issues and Needs There are a number of issues and needs related to economic development and commercial revitalization within Boynton Beach, which are described below, The first step in the development and implementation of a successful economic development program involves a knowledge of the existing environment. This includes an inventory of the existing businesses by business type, including the minority businesses. At this time, such an inventory is not available locally. The second step in the process is to determine the future goals of the City--what kind of city does Boynton Beach want to grow into? Existing and future land uses in the City are key to the City's future shape and character. The Future Land Use Element of the City's 1989 Comprehensive Plan identifies areas in need of redevelopment and recommends a number of land use changes and modifications. The City may want to assess these recommendations in light of the current situation and then implement all or part of these changes. The City's land use regulations and zoning code should reflect the City's future growth goals. Once the goals are determined, the City can decide what types of businesses to attract to the area and how to attract the targeted businesses. The proposed Marina is a much discussed project because the City Commission has changed the height limitations for buildings downtown to accommodate the project. Some people feel that taller buildings will ruin the small-town atmosphere of the City. However, others point out that the project will increase the tax base of the City and improve the downtown area by acting as a downtown anchor and encouraging other businesses to locate there. This emphasizes the issue of the City's image: should the City attempt to encourage a small-town image or market itself as an economically diverse and growing community? The next step in an economic development program is determining how to attract the desired businesses to the City. There are a variety of options, as mentioned Boynton Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future Background Paper 41 above. including tax abatements, fee waivers, and expedited permitting. fhe i ]1\ should measure the long-term costs and benefits of different options Another area of concern is funding economic development activities such d:, commercial revitalization, The TIF district. designed to raise revenue for redevelopment activities in the CRA and the CBD. is generating less revenue than originally expected, The City may need to explore other funding options such as the ones previously discussed. This also relates to the funding of new infrastructure for redevelopment purposes and to encourage grm\'th. Another issue or need is infill development. There are vacant propenies In the CRA that the City could target for infill development in connection with an economic development program. The Future land Use Element of the Comprehensive Plan recommends areas suitable for infill development. panicularlv in the Redevelopment Area. Currentlv. the CRA contains 38 acres of vacant commercial land and IS acres of vacant residential land, Bovnton Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future Background Paper ..L: III. NEIGHBORHOOD REVITALIZATION A. Overview Neighborhood revitalization is closely linked to economIC development and commercial revitalization. In order to attract/retain businesses and maintain the tax base, a city needs well-maintained residential areas that provide a variety of housing to meet the needs of a culturally and economically diverse population. Neighborhood revitalization entails the preservation and rehabilitation of deteriorating neighborhoods, followed by ongoing upkeep and maintenance. This involves a cooperative effort between local government authorities and residents. Neighborhood revitalization is a focus of many Boynton Beach redevelopment plans and documents, including the 1984 Community Redevelopment Plan, the 1988 Community Redevelopment Plan, the 1994 Redevelopment and Revitalization Plan (from the Downtown Charrette), and the 1995 Three to Five Year Strategic Plan. In addition, neighborhood revitalization is one of the five areas of emphasis set forth by the City Commission in the 1995-1996 budget. The overall goals of neighborhood revitalization in Boynton Beach include the following: · improving the image, quality, and appearance of the City's neighborhoods; · improving relations between the City government and the residents; and . increasing neighborhood safety. The first step in the neighborhood revitalization process involves an inventory of a city's neighborhoods. The neighborhoods are then categorized according to different criteria, such as housing conditions and adequacy and condition of infrastructure (sidewalks, streets, lighting, potable water system, drainage, etc.). The next step is to target neighborhoods in need of redevelopment and formulate a revitalization plan. This can involve removing dilapidated housing and other structures, bringing Boynton Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future Background Paper 43 structures up to code, and replacing and/or installing infrastructure A revitalizau(}n plan does not stop here, however: it must include future plans for continuous ;Uhl constant maintenance of the targeted neighborhoods as well as other neighborhood" to prevent future deterioration, The following section examines the topic 'It neighborhood revitalization in the City of Boynton Beach, B. Housing An adequate supply of standard housing is essential to the economic vitality ot a community. Neighborhood quality revolves around the condition of a city's housin,g stock and depends on the quality of public support facilities and services such as code enforcement, streets, parks, and public safety. In order to maintain the residentIal character of a city, a stable residential base must be maintained through the preservation of existing housing and the construction of new housing that meets the needs of present and future residents. The information presented below is the most recent housing data available for the City and is taken from the Housing Element of the 1989 Comprehensive Plan and the 1990 U,S, Census, 1. Housing Stock According to the 1990 U.S. Census there were 25,544 housing units in the Cit\' Approximately 21 % (5,252) of these units were vacant. Over 60% ( 15,514) of the occupied units were owner-occupied, and 19% (4,778) were rental units. The following table provides information on the City's 1990 housing stock in comparison to the 1980 numbers. Boynton Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future Background Paper .+-1 HOUSING STOCK 1980 1990 Total Housin~ Units 17,796 25,544 Occupied 15,438 20,292 Owner Occupied 12,924 15,518 Renter Occupied 2,424 4,778 Vacant 2,273 5,252 Source: 1980 and 1990 U.S. Census. More recent data obtained from a 1995 study shows that the majority of the housing in the City continues to be owner-occupied. The City has a higher percentage of owner-occupied housing than the County. The following table compares the City to other cities and the county in terms of owner-occupied housing uni ts. COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF OWNER VERSUS RENTAL HOUSING FOR SELECTED AREAs IN PALM BEACH COUNlY, 1995 % Owner % Renter Area Occupied Occupied City of Boynton Beach 72.6% 27.4% City of Boca Raton 73.5% 26.5% City of Oelray Beach 69.7% 30.3% City of West Palm Beach 48.5% 51.5% Palm Beach County 71.2% 28.8% Source: City of Delray Beach Study, 1995, Boynton Beach also has a higher percentage of single-family housing that the County. The following table provides more information. Boynton Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future Background Paper 45 COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF HOUSING BY TYPE FOR SELECTED AREAs IN PALM BEACH COUNTY, 1995 I M ul ti- ! i Single- Duplex Family Mobile i I Area Family (2 units) (3+ units) Other I Homes City of-Boynton Beach 52.3% 2.2% 43.8% 1,2% 0.5% I Citv of Boca Raton 49.4% 1.7% 48.0% 0,2% 0.7% City of Delray Beach 45.8% 3.9% 48.3% 1,0% 1 ,0% City of West Palm Beach 47.8% 5 .9% 44.0% 0.4% 1,9% Palm Beach Countv 47,6% 3.6% 43.2% 4,6% 1 .00;() I Source: City of Oelray Beach Study, 1995 Accordi.ng to the 1990 U,S, Census, most of the housing in the City was built In the 1970s, with a median construction year of 1976 The oldest housing in the City (built prior to 1940) is concentrated in the area of Seacrest Boulevard and Bovnton Beach Boulevard, around the center of the City. The 1995 median value of owner occupied housing units in the Citv was $91,085 and the median rent was $688 per month, The 1995 median value of owner occupied housing in Palm Beach Countv was $134,812 and the median rent wa,,,, $639 per month. 2. Condition of Housing According to the 1990 U.S. Census, there were 8,619 sub-standard housing unib in the City (most of these units were designated as such due to the lack of central heating). Over 70 units lacked complete plumbing, and more than 200 units did not have a complete kitchen. A 1987 windshield survev of selected areas in the City containing substandard housing revealed more information about the housing conditions for the City, as a whole. Nearly 1,200 structures were designated as standard with some minor deterioration; approximately 180 "tructures were designated as substandard with major deterioration; and 29 units were dilapidated Boynton Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future Background Paper 4h 3. Future Housing Needs The growing number of young professionals and young families moving into the City due to employment opportunities with Motorola and other light industries is resulting in an increase of multi-family rental units, A small percentage of the City's population consists of newly immigrated Caribbean peoples with their own special housing needs and concerns. In addition, retirees continue to settle in the more affluent areas in the western part of the City. Most of the new housing development will continue to take place west of 1-95, in the form of planned development (PUDs, for example) and apartment communities. The future housing needs of the City will reflect demographic changes, such as those mentioned above, as well as population increases. The Housing Element of the 1989 Comprehensive Plan attempts to project the housing needs of the City through population estimations and trends. From 1980 to 1985, the City gained 3,250 households. Based on this, the Comprehensive Plan projected a 1990 household population of 22,460, slightly higher than the actual number of 20,292. Thus, the City appears to be slowing down in terms of population growth. In estimating the housing needs of the City, the price and rent range are important considerations. The 1989 Comprehensive Plan states that housing demand will be concentrated more in the lower price ranges, with a large demand for housing priced below the median. Owner-occupied housing will be more in demand than rental housing and, according to calculations, this trend will continue well into the future. The Comprehensive Plan also points out areas of concern for housing which can be separated into two categories. The first area of concern is the City's low income households, and the second addresses older homes in the City in need of rehabilitation which the owners cannot afford. Boynton Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future Background Paper 47 4, Mfordable Housing The private housing market, driven by profit, will normally meet the housing needs of moderate and upper income households. Lower income persons who do not have the benefit of public subsidies are often forced to rent deteriorating structures and end up paying more than 50% of their income for rent. To meet the housing needs of all its citizens, a community must have programs that encourage the construction and maintenance of very low, low, and, in some cases, moderate income housing. In order for housing to be considered affordable, a household must pay less than 30 percent of its gross annual income for monthly housing costs. There are manv factors that affect housing affordability, including interest rates, mortgage terms. down payment amounts, hazard insurance, property taxes, and underwriting criteria. In order to determine the availability of affordable housing in an area and to establish eligibility requirements for housing programs, HUD sets income limits for metropolitan statistical areas based on the median family income of the area. Based on these figures the very, very low income, very low income, low income, and moderate income definitions are determined. Very, very low income is 25% of the median family income; very low income is 50% of median family income; and lower income is 80% of median family income. The following table shows the income limits used by the City of Boynton Beach based on a 1996 median family income of $48,000 for the metropolitan statistical area that includes the City. Boynton Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future Background Paper 4H I 996 INCOME LIMITS # of Persons Very, Very Very Low Lower in Household Low Income Income Income I $8,400 $16,800 $25,900 2 $ 9,600 $19,200 $30,700 3 $10,800 $21,600 $34,550 4 $12,000 $24,000 $38,400 5 $12,950 $25,900 $41,450 6 $13,900 $27,850 $44,550 7 $14,800 $29,750 $47,600 8 $15,850 $31,700 $50,700 Source: Palm Beach County Housing and Community Development. The City's 1989 Comprehensive Plan indicated that the City did have an affordable housing problem that was particularly serious for low and very low income households. The plan projected that this problem would grow worse unless the City became involved. The plan also projected an affordability gap in median priced housing, affecting the moderate income population in the near future. In 1987, the very low income (less than 50% of the area median income) families in the City accounted for almost 20% of all families in the City; low income families (50 to 80% of the area median income) also represented 20%; and moderate income families (80 to 120% of the area median income) represented 40% of all families. At the time of this document, very, very low income persons/families were not addressed. The City continues to address the issue and availability of affordable housing. The City participates in several County and State housing programs, some of which are discussed below. Boynton Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future Background Paper 49 C, Neighborhood Revitalization According to the Future Land Use Element of the 1989 Comprehensive Plan, Bo~'nton Beach has very little vacant residential land available for development; thw;, a large proportion of potential residential development will take place withIn approved projects or will be infill development, As the City approaches build-out (20 10) and the current housing ages, revitalization of the existing neighborhoods becomes a pressing need. The City has a variety of programs that concentrate on neighborhood revitalization and housing; some of these programs are discussed below, 1. 1988 Community Redevelopment Plan Most of the neighborhood revitalization efforts in the City target the older portion of the City, most of which is contained within the CRA. As discussed in previous chapters, the City designated a CRA in the early 1980s and expanded this area in 1988 to include a primarily residential portion in need of redevelopment, The Community Redevelopment Plan for this part of the CRA was prepared bv Hunter/RS&H. Inc. in 1988, The underlying concepts of the plan include the following: . preservation of the residential character; . limitation of relocation and displacement bv encouraging rehabilitation and infill construction instead of wholesale clearance: . supportable market uses which would provide early "high profile' development projects to establish revitalization of the area; . adequate design and development comrols to ensure quality development and protection and enhancement of existing and future investments; and . creation of a "gateway to Bovnton Beach" along Bovnton Beach Boulevard. This portion of the CRA contains approximately 5 19 acres of both residential and commercial land, The CRA is bounded bv the Bovnton Canal on the north, Florida , ' Bovnton Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future Background Paper 'in East Coast Railroad on the east, SE 2nd Avenue on the south, and 1-95 on the west. The majority of the land--304 acres--is residential. Other uses include public (38 acres), local retail (45 acres), general (16 acres), industrial (eight acres), and recreational (24 acres). The general uses are light industrial and heavy commercial. A very small percentage of the City's population, 11 %, resides in this area, according to the 1988 plan, The area has a slow growth rate, 6% since 1980, in comparison to the rest of the City, 28% since 1980. The area's household income is much lower than that of the overall City. The majority of the housing in the CRA is rental; 57% is owner-occupied compared .to 83% for the City, overall. The redevelopment area also contains all of the City's conventional public housing units, which are under the control of the Palm Beach County Housing Authority. A 1987 windshield survey of the area counted 843 housing units, with 11% (95) of these multifamily units. The survey also found that 64% of the housing units were in need of some form of renovation, ranging from minor repairs under $10,000 to demolition and removal. The following table provides information about the population, household, and income growth trends for the residential CRA in comparison to the City of Boynton Beach, as a whole. Boynton Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future Background Paper 51 POPULATION, HOUSEHOLD, AND INCOME GROWTH TRENDS, 1980 TO 2000 1980* 1988 1 1995 2000 Redevelopment Area j Population 4,883 5,167 T 5,388 5,871 i Households 1,617 1,71 I I, 784 1,944 i , Persons/household 3,02 3,02 3,02 3,02 ! Average household i . Income $10,880 $17,300 $19.200 I $20,680 Total household I ! I ncome $17,592,960 $29,600,300 $34,252,800 I $40,201,920 I ! , Boynton Beach Population 35,624 45,619 56,603 67,227 i Households 15,3 14 21, 130 25,157 l 29,229 i Persons/household 2.33 2,16 2,25 2,30 i Average household , ncome $16,921 $26,960 $29,930 I $32,240 Total household ! ncome $259,128,194 $569,664,800 $752,949,0101$942,342,9601 "Incomes are in 1987 dollars using 1979 base year from the 1980 US Census Projections include 1,5% annual increase in real income Source: 1988 Community Redevelopment Plan prepared bv Hunter/RS&H. Inc 2. City Revitalization and Housing Programs The City's Community Redevelopment Depanment works with a number of local and county agencies, including the Boynton Beach Communitv Development Corporation (CDC) and the Consonium for Affordable Home Financing, to preserve the residential character of the City. Through these pannerships, the Citv is able t( I consolidate funds from different sources to meet the housing needs of its citizens. Designation as an entitlement city allows a citv to apply directly to state and federal governments for programs such as SHIP (Florida's State Housing Initiative Pannership program), HOME, and CDBG, Boynton Beach is expected to become an entitlement have a population of 50,000 by the end of this fiscal year. thus achieving entitlement status. Through an interlocal agreement, the City currently receive,> Boynton Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future Background Paper ~ ~i, program funds from the Palm Beach County Housing and Community Development Division and the Commission on Mfordable Housing. In the past CDBG funds were used for capital improvements such as street and road improvements, park improvements, and the installation of sewers. The City is now using CDBG funds to leverage loans for housing rehabilitation. SHIP funds are also used for rehabilitation and to facilitate home ownership. Conventional public housing in Boynton Beach is owned and operated by the Palm Beach County Housing Authority under the federal government's Section 8 housing program. To qualify for occupancy, family income may not exceed 50% of the median income for the area. Rent for a public housing unit is determined by income. Other housing programs are discussed in the following section. The Community Redevelopment Department currently offers three home improvement programs designed to "curtail the spread of residential blight by stabilizing the residential character of the City." Funding for these programs IS included in the 1995-1996 budget. The programs are described below: Boynton Home Improvement Program (BHIP)--Eight local lenders work with the City to offer low interest loans for extensive exterior and/or interior rehabilitation of owner-occupied homes. Paint-UplFix-Up Program--This program funds up to 50% of exterior home repairs. Local lenders also \Y,ork with applicants to cover the remaining 50% of the costs, if necessary. Infill Construction Program--Non-profit agencies, such as the Boynton Beach Community Development Corporation (CDC) and the Consortium for Mfordable Home Financing, work with 12 lending institutions to assist low to moderate income people with the purchase of a home. The Consortium screens potential applicants and de~ermines eligibility for a mortgage. Some applicants are approved for a lease-purchase, renting through the CDC, until certain credit issues are cleared. Boynton Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future Background Paper 53 3, Code Enforcement and Community Appearance Code enforcement is vital to the maintenance and upkeep of the neighborhoods In a communi tv, In Boynton Beach, code enforcement is the responsibilitv of a specific unit attached to the Police Depanment. The mission of the Code Enforcement C'nn is to protect the safety and welfare of the citizens of Boynton Beach through the fair and equal enforcement of the codes and ordinances enacted bv the City Funhermore. Boynton Beach Citv Commissioners endorsed the idea of imposing a newly developed set of community appearance regulations on both commercial and residential propenies city-wide, The proposed appearance code is hailed as "a key ingredient in a plan to make Boynton Beach a vibrant communi tv bv redeveloping the aging downtown and the deteriorating neighborhoods surrounding it" ("Code planned to keep Boynton looking good," The Palm Beach Post. March I, 1996. P 2B,), City leaders hope that the code, approved on April 2nd. will foster communitv pride. D. Issues and Needs The older portion of the City is the target of many of the current neighborhood revitalization efforts, However, the City needs to coordinate the various effons and plans, such as the redevelopment plans and the community policing effons, In addition, there may be other neighborhoods in the Citv that are in need of revitalization but are not recognized as such. An inventorv of the Citv"- neighborhoods and a survey of the condition and stock of housing may facilitate neighborhood revitalization effons. The next step might be the development of a plan that targets specific neighborhoods, without duplicating and/or ignoring existing plans, Development of this plan should include input from all relevant agencies. Another issue involves establishing a stronger relationship between City government and residents in order to carrv out neighborhood revitalization, TherE' Bovnton Vision 20120: Planning Our Future Background Paper .. , 'I-t are many ways for citizens to become involved to ensure that their neighborhoods reflect an image of pride and quality. Residents can join an existing neighborhood/civic association or establish a new one. Participating in neighborhood crime watch programs and contacting the City about code violations are other ways to participate, In addition, there are numerous City advisory boards, such as the Building Board of Adjustment and Appeals, Code Enforcement Board, Community Redevelopment Advisory Board and the Planning and Development Board, which allow citizen participation. Boynton Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future Background Paper 55 IV PUBLIC SAFETY/CRIME PREVENTION A, Overview Crime and the fear of crime directlv affect the quality of life in a communit\': citizens often list crime at the top of the list of problems facing their communities Crime has a negative impact on property values and is the most cited reason for "flight to the suburbs." Such flight leaves cities and their neighborhoods with a declining economic base; abandoned sites that invite vandalism, drugs, prostitution and other criminal activities; and a dwindling sense of identity and securitv, Schools located in deteriorating neighborhoods are perceived as unsafe and undesirable places to send one's children. The Bovnton Beach Police Department is a full-service law enforcement agencv with 132 full-time sworn sergeants and officers, The breakdown is as follows: NUMBER OF POLICE DEPARTMENT EMPLOYEES BY POSITION Position # Chief 1 Deputv Chief 1 Captains 2 Lieutenants 7 Ser,gean ts 22 Detectives / Police Officers 92 Source: Boynton Beach Police Department The City's ratio of approximately one officer to 372 citizens compares to that of West Palm Beach which has one officer to 337 citizens, and Delrav Beach, which , , has one officer to 334 citizens. While Boynton's ratio is better than some other cities in the State, there is a perceived need for additional officers. According to a Bovnton Beach Police Department source, in terms of expenditures, the line item budget of Bovnton Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future Background Paper )t) the Department is "very lean" in comparison to other Florida cities: "The City does an excellent job of reducing fIxed costs associated with the budget, and new purchases are kept to a minimum." However, there is little left in the budget for major expendi t ures. There are three shifts for Patrol OffIcers: midnight to 8 a.m. with 15 officers, three sergeants, and one lieutenant on duty; 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. with 19 offIcers, three traffIc patrols, four sergeants, two lieutenants, and one captain on duty; and 4 p.m. to midnight with 17 offIcers, one traffIc patrol, two canine patrols, fIve sergeants, and 1 lieutenant on duty. From 8 a.m. to midnight there are seven offIcers and one sergeant from the Community Response Team on duty; some work early, others late. From 6 p.m. to 2 a.m., there are also three offIcers and one sergeant assigned to the Directed Patrol Unit on duty. There are two shifts for Detective Personnel: in total, there are two sergeants, one captain, and nine detectives covering the 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and 3 p.m. to 11 p.m. shifts. There are six offIcers and one sergeant from the Community Education Team on duty from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., and there are also six agents and one sergeant from Vice usually working 4 p.m. to midnight. All others work 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. The City is divided into nine zones for purposes of law enforcement (a map of the nine zones is included in the Appendix of this document). The nine zones are described below: Zone One--bounded on the south by Gateway Boulevard, on the west by 1-95, on the north by Mentone Road, and on the east by Federal Highway and the Intracoastal Waterway. Zone Two--bounded on the south by the C-16 Canal, on the west by 1-95, on the north by Gateway Boulevard, and on the east by the Intracoastal. Zone Three--bounded on the south by Boynton Beach Boulevard, on the west by 1-95, on the north by the C-16 Canal, and on the east by the Intracoastal. Boynton Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future Background Paper 57 Zone Four--bounded on the south bv Woolbright Road, on the west bv 1-<)5 on the north by Boynton Beach Boulevard, and on the east bv the Intracoastal. Zone Five--bounded on the south by Gulfstream Boulevard, on the west bv [-<)5 on the north by Woolbright Road, and on the east bv the Intracoastal. Zone Six--bounded on the south by the C-IS Canal, on the west bv variom boundaries (some to Barwick Road), on the north by Woolbright Road, and on the east by 1-95. Zone Seven--bounded on the south by the C-16 Canal, on the west by vanous boundaries (some between Lawrence Road and Military Trail). on the north bv various boundaries (some to Hypoluxo Road), and on the east by 1-95. Zone Eight--the properties surrounding and including the Bovnton Beach Mall Zone Nine--bounded on the south by Woolbright Road, on the west by various boundaries all west of Congress Avenue, on the north by the C-l () Canal, and on the east by 1-95, All zones are umque and reqUIre special attention and semces, Zones Three and Seven, the largest zone have the most calls-for-service, Zone Three always has a two- person patrol unit; on the 4 p.m. to midnight shift, Zone Two has a two-person unn The Palm Beach County Criminal Justice Commission conducted a survey 1 n 1994 on staffing diversity in criminal justice agencies. Results showed that. in 19<)) of the total actual sworn full-time personnel in the Bovnton Beach Police Department, minorities were under represented, To begin addressing this deficiency in minority representation, during the 1995 Strategic Planning Initiative, the Police Department reaffirmed its commitment to minority recruiting efforts and placed added emphasis on cultural diversity/values and ethics, The Department's budget includes funding for increased diversity training and the continuation of the minorin' recruitment program. The following table shows the results, Boynton Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future Background Paper :;'" MINORITY REPRESENTATION IN 1993 COMPARED TO 1996 # of Personnel 1993 1996 White males 105 96 Whi te females 5 8 Mrican American males 8 17 Mrican American females 1 2 Hispanic males 6 8 Hispanic females 0 1 Source: Boynton Beach Police Department. B. Crime in Boynton Beach The following table provides information on the numbers of 911 calls received by the Boynton Beach Police Department in 1994 and 1995. 911 CALLS RECEIVED IN 1994 AND 1995 911 Calls 1994 1995 Total 9 11 calls 20,888 25,046 Fire-related 911 calls 5,931 6,150 Other 911 calls 214 270 Source: Boynton Beach Police Department. According to a source in the Police Department, these calls-for-service are "pretty much in line with our population, perhaps a little on the low side of the comparisons" to other cities in Florida. Total non-911 calls are not calculated, but thev are .I "considerable." The top ten most frequent categories of calls-for-service (in order) are alarms (malfunctions/accidental triggering), assists to other departments, suspicious incidents, larceny, extra patrols, civil assists, accidents, traffic, domestic, and suspicious persons. Over half of these calls require the response of more than one officer. There were a total of 42,274 reported incidents in Boynton Beach in 1994, and 43,224 in 1995. A table showing the breakdown of the Part One Crimes (which do Boynton Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future Background Paper 59 not include such things as criminal mischief or "white collar CrImes" and t hel, distribution follows, PART ONE CRIMES FOR 1994 AND 1995 Cate~ory 1994 1995 Awavated assault 436 474 Burglarv 863 831 Homicide 6 1 Larcenv 2,692 3,518 Motor vehicle theft 700 737 I Robberv 185 183 Sexual assault 31 30 TOTAL 4,913 5,774 I Source: Bovnton Beach Police Department There were 1,845 total arrests in 1994 and 1,905 in 1995 Both 1994 and 1995 show a decrease in total arrests compared to 1,928 in 1993 and 2.255 in 1992. The FBI Crime Index is a rating system used to show the crime rate per 100,000 population in a jurisdiction. This rate is determined by tabulating the number nt actual Pan One Crimes for the year, dividing that number bv the jurisdiction.., population. and multiplying that figure bv 100,000 The following comparative statistics are extracted from the FBI's Uniform Crime Repons for 1994 (the most recent repon available). COMPARISON OF CRIME FOR SELECTED PALM BEACH COUNTY AGENCIES, 1994 Agency Population FBI Crime Crime Rate (Index Index per 100,000) Boynton Beach 48,848 4,913 10,057 Boca Raton 65,901 3,320 5,037 Delray Beach 49,298 6,442 13,067 Lake Wonh 29,125 4,724 53,32 Source: City of Boynton Beach Police Department, Boynton Vision 20120: Planning Our Future Background Paper 611 The FBI and other expens caution against comparing crime rates from one city to another, or even within the same city over time. There are multiple factors and variables that can substantially affect statistics. For example, while Boynton Beach has a relatively low major crime rate, there are slight variations in the way cities record and repon crimes, making comparisons somewhat difficult. However, these statistics can assist citizens with placing their city's crime rate in a larger context. c. Juvenile Issues 1. Overview The State of Florida established its first juvenile co un in 1911; under this system, the counties obtained jurisdiction over juvenile delinquency programs. In 1969, the Division of Youth Services was created under the Depanment of Health and Rehabilitative Services to perform related duties that would suppon the best interests of young people. Law enforcement officers may take into custody any juvenile who is: believed to have committed a crime; a runaway, truant, or beyond parental control; abandoned, abused, or neglected; or in danger of harming himself or herself. When a case involving a juvenile is brought to the State Attorney, the State Attorney may either: file a petition for alleged delinquency, whereupon formal charges are brought upon the juvenile for violation of the law (committing a crime); file a petition for dependency in abandonment, abuse, or neglect cases; or recommend that the juvenile enter a mediation program for cases that do not warrant prosecution. The State Attorney may also choose to have the juvenile (14 and above) tried as an adult in cases of seriou~ crime. Any individual under the age of 18 is considered a juvenile and can be charged with the commission of a crime, regardless of age. Juvenile couns, which are pan of the circuit coun system, do not try by jury. Boynton Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future Background Paper 61 The percentage of juvenile arrests in the Citv of Bovnton Beach continue.., increase, Of the total arrest figures cited above, juvenile arrests accounted for 27% III 1992,32% in 1993,35% in 1994, and 38% in 1995. 2. Youth programs and services The Boynton Beach Police Depanment has several programs and services aimed directly toward its younger citizens, Within the Patrol Division is the Communitv Education Team, which is responsible for carrying out the Juvenile First Offender (TFO)/Explorer programs, the DARE/GREAT (Drug Abuse Resistance Education/Gang Resistance Education and Training) programs, and the RAP/PAL (Recreation Athletics, Police/Police Athletic League) programs, The JFO program is staffed by one police officer responsible for preventing criminal recidivism among first-time juvenile offenders. The program tracks these offenders and helps them become law abiding citizens. This is accomplished through counseling sessions and follow-up visits. along with sanctions such as communitv service hours, letters of apology, and financial restitution. The Explorer program 1" lead by the same officer who handles the JFO function, As the Post Advisor for Explorer Post #396, the officer is responsible for coordinating the 14- to 21-vear-old members of the group. The main purpose of the Explorers, a program of the Bov Scouts of America open to both male and female teens, is to foster a sense of ci\1C duty and responsibility while encouraging interest in law enforcement as a career. The DARE/GREAT program is staffed bv three full-time, cenified DARE and/or GREAT instructors. The objective is to teach school-age children not to become involved with drugs or crime in generaL The officers are mandated to stay updated on frequent changes in the DARE curriculum, developed at the national level. In Bovnton Beach, DARE officers also conduct several summenime programs to continue the DARE philosophy on a vear-round basis, GREAT is similar to, bur separate from, DARE. It teaches children to resist gang membership, perceived as a Boynton Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future Background Paper 02 serious social problem. Boynton has long involved itself with the County's Gang Task Force and has detectives and officers who follow the gang crime trends. While gangs have not been a significant problem in the City to date, the surrounding cities are experiencing problems, and the City is expecting an increase in gang-related activity in the future. RAP/PAL is staffed by one police officer. RAP, partially funded through the Children Services Council of Palm Beach County, provides various sporting activities to a total of 50 at-risk youth with the goal of preventing negative contact with the criminal justice system. PAL is a separate, nonprofit corporation linked to the City through the Police Department whereby the Department provides a police officer to coordinate this city-wide program. Athletics and teamwork are used to create positive contact with law enforcement and constructive youth activities. Boynton Beach also has a School Resource Officer and a juvenile detective. In addition, each of the nine police officers on the Community Response Team within the Patrol Division is assigned a bicycle to enhance community interaction and make the officers more approachable to the public. These "bicycle officers" work directly with the younger members of the community. The officers educate the youngsters on topics of safety such as bicycle safety, taught through bike "rodeos." D. Community Policing 1, The Rising Popularity of Community Policing a. Overview In recent years, police departments acr08S the U.S. have come to acknowledge the limits of standard police procedures. In present-day policing (which replaced the older tradition where officers walked beats), police officers generally work under central control, with limited discretion. They react to crime, responding to criminal Boynton Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future Background Paper 63 incidents or calls-for-service using patrol cars to cover large territories and respond quickly, Success is measured by calls answered, crimes cleared, and arrests made Like other social institutions. however, police departments are responding to rapId change and emerging problems by rethinking their basic strategies, Standard policing methods are perceived as somewhat ineffective, evidenced bv a widespread fear of crime among citizens, record high crime rates, and record high prison populations despite the availability of more officers and more funds for law enforcement, As d result, progressive police administrators are beginning to question the efficacy ot traditional techniques; some have started experimenting with new approaches to their tasks, Among the most prominent new approaches is the concept of communirv policing. b, General description Viewed from one perspective, community policing is not a new concept; the principles are rooted in policing's oldest traditions, Although it is an operating stvle, community policing also is a "philosophy" of policing that contains several interrelated components, highlighted below, All are essential to the commUI1lt\' policing concept and help distinguish it from traditional policing, Results vs. process. Community policing consists of two complementary corf' components: community partnership and problem solving, The focus is on "results" as well as process. Incorporated into routine operations are the techniques of problem identification, problem analysis, and problem resolution. Values. Community policing relies heavily upon the articulation of policing values that incorporate citizen involvement in matters directlv affecting rhf' quality and safety of neighborhoods. Accountability. Because officers must interact with residents on a routine basis and keep them abreast of their activities, accountability to both the department and the community is ensured, Bovnton Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future Background Paper h4 Decentralization. The decentralization of authority and structure is another component, since the authority to participate in the decision-making process expands significantly. Power sharing. The community is allowed to participate actively in the decision-making process. Beat redesign. Beat boundaries are drawn to coincide with natural neighborhood boundaries rather than in arbitrary configurations. Individual neighborhoods are not placed in multiple beats. Permanent assignments. Shift and beat assignments are issued on a permanent rather than rotating basis, allowing the beat officer to become an integral part of the community he or she is assigned to protect. Empowerment of beat officers. Beat officers must be given the authority to make decisions as they see fit, based on the circumstances of the situation. Other components of community policing that may differ from traditional techniques involve the manner in which investigations are conducted, the way in which calls-for-service are handled, and the methods of personnel training, supervision, management, and evaluation. In brief, the benefits of community policing to the community are customized police service, a commitment to crime prevention, accountability to the public, public scrutiny of police operations, and community organization. Benefits to the police include greater job satisfaction, shared responsibility, greater citizen support, support for organizational change, and better internal relationships. c, Factors contributini to success Effective community policing depends on optimizing positive contact between residents and patrol officers. Patrol cars are only one method of conveying police services. Police departments may supplement automobile patrols with foot, bicycle, horseback, and scooter patrols, as well as adding "mini-stations" to bring police closer to the community. Regular community meetings and forums will afford police and Boynton Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future Background Paper 65 community members an opportunity to air concerns and find ways to address them . ~ The factors outlined below, among others, contribute to successful community policing programs in other jurisdictions. Support from top officials in the form of tangible resources, including funding, personnel, and both encouragement and permission to depart from traditional ways of doing business. A shared vision that includes a commitment to improving the quality of life for neighborhood residents and avoiding fragmentation and duplication (It services, (Consensus on broad principles can anchor debates when disagreements arise,) Shared leadership where agencies and their staff share both the leadership and the credit. Ability to deliver immediate tangible benefits to help gam the trust at residents. Commitment to empowering residents by working with them as real partners in problem solving, (For individual families, this sometimes involves individualized case planning and goal setting. For entire neighborhoods. residents can become involved in neighborhood cleanups, social events can help reduce isolation, and voter registration can be encouraged. ) Qualified, committed staff who know the resources of their own agencies, are flexible enough to work outside traditional job descriptions. and can develop a rapport with community members, Initial simplicity of organizational and budgetary arrangements to avoid the need for massive restructuring. (Initial simplicity seems to foster successful and rapid program implementation and staff creativity.) Bovnton Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future Background Paper bh d, Challen&es and obstacles A city's political leaders and the public should be careful not to develop unrealistic expectations for community policing in terms of speedy implementation or crime deterrence, Community policing calls for long-term commitment; it is not a short- term public relations effort. Achieving ongoing partnerships with the citizenry and eradicating underlying causes of crime will take time, patience, planning, and flexibility. The entire police organization should stress that success depends on sustained joint efforts of the police, the citizenry, local government, and public and private organizations, such as social agencies, businesses, schools, and church groups, Such cooperation is indispensable to deterring crime and revitalizing neighborhoods. Law enforcement agencies alone do not have the resources to address all contemporary problems but community policing can be a catalyst for mobilizing resources at all levels to help solve these problems. Not surprisingly, however, neighborhood-based partnerships may face a number of obstacles and challenges. Some of these include: the complexity of the problems; the heterogeneity of neighborhoods; the lack of stable, institutionalized funding mechanisms; partnership building as a long-term process; and staff stress. e. Service inte&ration In some cities, community police officers and human service providers are joining forces to address issues in troubled neighborhoods. High-risk families and high-risk neighborhoods often coincide, and agency teamwork and cooperation can have mutual benefits. Human service professionals find themselves frustrated by the poverty, unemployment, disease, and family disruption that coexist with crime and drugs. Human service providers, such as schools, courts, social services, and health and mental health agencies are also confronting the limits of traditional problem- solving techniques, Similar to police, human service agencies often have centralized professional structures, making them less accessible to the individuals and families Boynton Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future Background Paper 67 \vho need their help, In addition, budgets have not kept pace with needs and ,li some cases, have decreased, Communication among human service providers is often madequate or non existent, Although the same family may show up as pan of the caseload of several agenCIes, no one entity may address the family's multiple needs, Human servICe agenCIes, like police, respond to immediate crises and often have little time left t,) work on underlying problems. To remedy these defects, some agencies are using service integration with familie'i and children at high risk of negative developments such as child abuse, school dropout, and delinquency, Service integration effons take a variety of forms, Some attempt to realign and restructure agencies and budgets; others use methods like coordinated case management and locating service providers closer to their clients Service integration always involves formal or informal collaboration and cooperation across agencies; this improves the How of information between agencies, The intent is to make services more accessible, more holistic. and less reactive. and to involve residents in solving their own problems, For community police. the presence of human servIce personnel can expedite identifying and brokering resources. For service providers, the presence of a police' officer may alleviate concerns about personal safetv when working in high-crinw areas, For both, service integration and police!human service partnerships can streamline the process of interagency referrals and keep partners well informed (It changes in each others' capabilities, procedures, and programs, 2. Community Policing and Citizen Involvement/Education in Boynton Beach Community policing and citizen involvement/education are intenwined endeavor., in the City of Boynton Beach. The Police Department has been putting communitv policing-type techniques into practice for at least the past seven Years. Several programs are already underway, and others will soon be implemented. For example Bovnton Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future Background Paper hK patrol officers are assigned to permanent zones to foster familiarity, and the officers are encouraged to practice problem-oriented policing techniques. Each of the nine police officers on the Community Response Team (now part of the Patrol Division) is assigned a bicycle to enhance community interaction and make the officers more approachable to the public; there are also foot patrols. The focus is on community problem detection and solution: the underlying causes of a problem are first determined and analyzed, then a plan of action is formulated to address and resolve the problem. This team, which will soon expand to 12 members, serves as a silent form of patrol. An organization called PERF (Police Executive Research Forum) has been contacted to further the Department's efforts in problem-oriented policing. A training session for all departmental personnel is tentatively scheduled for May 5-8, 1996. The Crime Prevention program of the Community Education Team (within the Patrol Division) is currently staffed by two police officers. The officers are specially trained to become Crime Prevention Practitioners through the State of Florida Attorney General's Office, which provides training in residential and commercial security and Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design. The officers are responsible for all Crime Watch groups (both residential and business), the Citizens' Police Academy (this free, lO-week training course is offered twice each year), the Combat Auto Theft program, the Drug Hotline, and other community-oriented education efforts. These officers also serve as the Convenience Store Security Act compliance monitors. Crime alerts and statistics are made available (via the On The Beat! publication) to the Crime Watch groups, and Neighborhood Watch chairpersons meetings are held during the evening at the Police Department. Moreover, the new Citizen Observer Patrol program is completed in one area and expected to get underway shortly in other areas. Mter completing the program, citizen volunteers will be equipped with cellular phones and allowed to operate specially marked Police Department vehicles for patrolling designated neighborhoods. Boynton Vision 20120: Planning Our Future Background Paper 69 Citizen involvement/education activities can take a varietv of forms Manv C1tH'~ in south Florida have an "open-ride/citizen observer" policy to allow citizens 10 become more familiar and involved with the process of maintaining public safety Currently. there are circumstances where a person, after signing a release. can ride along with an officer in Boynton Beach, but there are restrictions due to 'Iafetv and liability concerns. One other crime prevention tactic involves targeting deteriorating neighborhoods, which often become more susceptible to crime, The Citv mav then work with Florida Power and Light to increase lighting or get involved in a "hands-on" neighborhood cleanup. In July 1995, the City initiated weeklv anti-drug marches, named "Wrice Process' marches for the person who originated the concept. The marches are intended lO unite police, residents, and City officials in the attempt to thwart drug peddling and loitering in such areas as the intersection of Seacrest and Martin Luther King, Jr Boulevards, While a number of City leaders and departmental personnel have joined in these Friday and Saturday evening marches, citizen attendance has dwindled In recent months. It is hoped that improved community policing efforts in targeted neighborhoods and throughout the Citv will increase citizen participation in the Wrice Process marches, Finally, and as described elsewhere, the Boynton Beach Police Department uses other community-oriented policing methods, such as DARE/GREAT training, a large Explorer Post, active Crime Watch, and the provision of RAP and PAL officers, 3. Conclusion Community policing is, in essence, a collaboration between the police and the community that identifies and solves community problems. Citizens become active allies in the effort to enhance the safety and quality of their neighborhoods. Communitv members voice their concerns, contribute advice, and take action lO Bovnton Vision 20120: Planning Our Future Background Paper 7'0 address common problems. Creating a constructive partnership will require the patience, understanding, energy, and creativity of all involved. Community policing has far-reaching implications. The expanded outlook on crime control and prevention, the new emphasis on making citizens active participants in the process of reinvigorating their communities, and the patrol officers' pivotal role require profound changes within the police organization. It may take time to break down barriers of mistrust and apathy in a community so that meaningful partnerships are forged. Trust is the value that underlies and connects the components of community partnership and problem solving. A foundation of trust will a)low police to build close relationships with the community and to produce solid results. Without that trust, effective policing is impossible. Experience shows that community policing as a dominant policing style is a better, more efficient, and more cost-effective means of using police resources. In the final analysis, community-oriented policing is emerging as the most appropriate means of using police resources to improve the quality of life in neighborhoods throughout the country. E. Fire Department and Emergency Services The Boynton Beach Department of Fire and Rescue provides fire, rescue, and emergency medical services to the citizens of the City. The Fire Suppression and Rescue Program requires 84 of the 90 uniform budgeted positions within the department. These 84 positions are used to staff three fire stations strategically, which are operational 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. The personnel are divided into three 24-hour rotating shifts with each shift commanded by a Fire Captain. Three pumpers, one aerial, and three Advanced Life Support (ALS) rescue trucks are staffed to provide fire suppression, Hazardous-Material control, rescue, and emergency medical services. Boynton Vision 20120: Planning Our Future Background Paper 71 Dav-to-dav emergencies are handled through the Citv'" 91 I svstem, with r he appropriate agency dispatched to each emergency Trained Fire Departmem personnel respond to all car accidents and medical calls. and the Fire Department 1" largely responsible for patient transportation. Police units are also usuallv called because of their quick response time. The average response time bv the Police Department to emergency calls is 2-3 minutes, The City of Boynton Beach has a Disaster Preparedness Plan for such activities dS hurricane evacuation. The Police Emergencv Operations Center is located in the Patrol Division Watch Commander's Office. The Citv Emergency Operations Cemer is in the East Water Treatment Plam, Information and primed materials concerning disaster preparedness are available at City Hall and in other public buildings \ broad range of City, County, and State agencies circulates these materials, F. Code Enforcement In Boynton Beach, code enforcement is a specific unit (with five inspectors and a supervisor who can cite violations, plus clerical personnel) attached to the Police Department, While police officers are not actively engaged in code enforcement they are empowered to report code violations, To increase the strength of the Citv\ enforcement and prevention programs in this area, an additional Code Enforcement Officer position (funded through the Sanitation Fund) is budgeted for the 1995-199h fiscal vear. G. Issues and Needs Given the growth of the City to date, renewed efforts at annexation. and the influx of people statewide, Boynton Beach will certainly continue to grow, requiring more police officers and related services. The cost of this growth, coupled with Bovnton Vision 20120: Planning Our Future Background Paper --., j inflation and increases in calls-for-service, will mean increases in the budget of the Police Department. The major issues that affect all of south Florida also affect Boynton Beach. These include drugs, burglary, motor vehicle theft, and a host of quality of life issues. From the public safety/crime prevention perspective, some lesser concerns include the Boynton Beach Mall, the planned high school, a growing immigrant population, an increasing number of non-English speaking residents, and a large retiree population (which may result in a higher incidence of "sick and injury" calls). The police alone cannot solve the crime-related problems facing Boynton Beach; the citizenry needs to be involved in a cooperative partnership with their own neighborhoods, local businesses, the Police Department, and City government. Community opinion about the Boynton Beach Police Department is a difficult thing to measure. Certain segments of the community view the Department quite differently. In the Department's opinion: The press has consistently chosen to emphasize the negative and in doing so has adversely affected public opinion. It is the Department's feeling that community opinion is improving as we continue to make a concerted effort in that direction. There will always be large portions of the community who have a good opinion of the Police Department (Sergeant Charles Kuss, Boynton Beach Police Department, March 8, 1 996). Encouraging greater involvement of Boynton Beach's diverse groups in civic and volunteer activities provides one mechanism for addressing public safety issues. This can involve contracting with an independent agency to conduct a public opinion survey to gauge residents' level of satisfaction with Police Department services, and providing survey participants the opportunity to make suggestions for addressing any existing deficiencies or inadequacies. Involving younger members of the community in positive activities may reduce the incidence of juvenile crime. Encouraging young people to volunteer for Boynton Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future Background Paper 73 communitv-service opportunities. such as cleaning up blighted areas and helping \\It h the "Let's Build a Playground" project can foster civic pride at an early age Creating more safe. social opportunities for youth on evenings and \veekends andi( II establishing a community council consisting of voung people from variou" backgrounds are other ways to augment vouth involvement, Another alternative is H) ask for young people's opinions on the activities they find most interesting and then give them the responsibility for organizing such activities, Continuing to facilitate communication with the City's retiree population is a1-;o important, Similar to Boynton Beach. the City of Coconut C 'k, Florida. has a large elderly population, The Public Safety Department in that city has specific programs for its older citizens. Two such programs are Seniors and Lawmen Together (SAL TI an advocacy/advisory group. and the Triad, The Triad consists of a three-way effort between the Police Chief, the Sheriff, and the American Association of Retired Persons working together to reduce the criminal victimization of the elderly. and enhance the delivery of law enforcement services to the community. The Triad also . . works to reduce unwarranted fear of crime and improve the quality of life for senior.... Governed by SALT. the Triad provides a forum for the exchange of informanon between law enforcement and senior c: ~ens, The residents of Boynton Bead-, "d\' want to advocate the development of similar programs in their city Other opportunities for addressing neighborhood crime issues may include: · instituting Residential Watch programs in all neighborhoods bv tlrst bringing the residents of single-family homes, mobile home parks, apartment units, and condominiums together in neighborhood/civic associations; . fostering greater interaction at the community level by creating a council of neighborhood/civic associations; . continuing to develop and implement the community policing program. and . providing more citizen training, education, and involvement, thus enabling the Police Department to increase the number of "watchful eyes" without having to hire additional officers, Bovnton Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future Background Paper --.t V. EDUCATION/YOUTH INVOLVEMENT A. Overview Educational opportunity is essential to a city's quality of life; it is very important for a city to keep pace with today's technology and provide quality education for its residents. The City of Boynton Beach, along with most other cities throughout the State, is facing a growing population which requires added educational facilities and programs. The following section provides an inventory of current educational facilities, programs, and opportunities available in Boynton Beach. B. Palm Beach County School Board and District 1. Overview The public schools in Boynton Beach are within the Palm Beach County School District and are the responsibility of the Palm Beach County School Board. The School District provides educational programs for nearly 130,000 students in kindergarten through twelfth grade. Palm Beach County is the fourth largest school district in Florida and the 15th largest in the nation, with 17 high schools, 23 middle schools, 79 elementary schools, seven speciaValternative schools, three vocationaVtechnical centers, and one adult education center. All Palm Beach County schools meet or exceed State Department of Education guidelines and requirements, and all of the high schools are accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. The School Board serves as the policy-making authority for the District's schools. The Board consists of seven elected, nonpartisan members who meet twice a month to develop policies for guiding school programs. Public hearings and workshops are Boynton Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future Background Paper 75 scheduled, when necessary, to address subjects, such as school uvercrowding, busmg or others, The chief executive officer of the School District is the Superintendent f-I Schools" 2. Palm Beach County School District Programs The public school system in Palm Beach County uses an instructional program that provides a comprehensive unified curriculum for all students 1(-12 and 1'-. designed to meet the needs of students of all ability levels, The program includes remediation and enrichment activities and utilizes communitv resources to enhance the learning environment. There is also continuous support from businesses, parent groups, and communitv organizations to provide the incentives and support students need to excel Interested citizens, parents, and staff members throughout the Countv play an active role in developing the District's Strategic Plan, and are now becoming involved in the School Advisory Councils (SACs) at each school as a part of the State and Distnrt educational accountabilitv actions, Under the 1991 "School Improvement and Education Accountabilitv Act," the Florida legislature established SACs at each school. The SACs are composed of principals, teachers, education support employees, students, parents, and business and community representatives who provide the driving force behind the school improvement process, Each SAC must reflect the ethnic, racial. and economic diversity of the community served by the school. These councils assist in preparing and evaluating school improvement plans and also, at the request of the principal assist in preparing the school's annual budget and plan. Council members representing teacher, education support emplovees. students and parents are elected by their respective peer groups at the school in a fair and equitable manner as follows: Boynton Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future Background Paper -:h 1) teachers are elected by teachers; 2) education support employees are elected by education suppon employees; 3) students are elected by students; and 4) parents are elected by parents. Business and other community members are selected by the school according to a procedure established by the School Board. The School District programs are offered county-wide, but different schools may offer different programs. The following list represents some of the many programs available through Palm Beach County schools. Magnet Schools--Magnet schools are public schools with specialized programs designed to attract a diversity of students interested in a panicular topic of study, such as science, math, ans, languages, the environment, or technology. Magnet schools also encourage parents to panicipate actively in "choosing" the best education for their children. These programs allow voluntary desegregation, improve academic achievement, assist students in achieving higher academic standards, and motivate students to stay in school. The County currently has 27 magnet programs, one of which is located in the City of Boynton Beach. ESOL--The English for Speakers of Other Languages Program is designed to help teach students with limited English proficiency the four language skills, including listening, speaking, reading, and writing. ESE-- The Exceptional Student Education Program targets the following students: Educable Mentally Handicapped, Speech and Language Impaired, Autistic, Deaf, Homebound, Gifted, and others. Programs range from speech therapy and classes for children with learning disabilities to HospitaVHomebound services and advanced classes for the academically gifted. ILS-- The Integrated Learning System Program provides one-on-one tutoring and practice for students, as well as performance reports for teachers, administrators, and parents. The system is networked within the schools and supported by a computer-based curriculum. Boynton Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future Background Paper 77 L.I.N,K.--The Learning, Integrating, and Nurturing Knowledge Program 1:-; 11' integrated technology education learning center. The curriculum and learmng experiences are structured so that students understand the link between ,>ubject areas, learning, and real life . D.A.R.E.--The Drug Abuse Resistance Education Program is implemented In the public elementary schools and is designed to teach children not to become involved in drugs and alcohol use, D,A.R.E, is taught by specially trained police officers. Students-At-Risku This includes a number of different programs designed to keep at-risk students in school and graduating, The programs include, Dropout Prevention, Migrant Education, Chapter I, Indian Affairs, and the Pedormance Improvement Program (PIP). PIP appoints community liaisom between teachers, administrators, and the parents of students to improve communications. Volunteers in Public Schools--There are over 4,500 volunteers registered in this program, designed to assist educators in the schools. Business leaders also provide exceptional corporate support to Palm Beach County education. Instructional Television System--AlI schools have access to the DistriCt " instructional television system, which draws programs and teleconferences from both satellite and cable, One innovative learning project allow" instruction in specialized and advanced courses via video network from remote college and high school studios. Other programs and educational facilities offered through the public school svstem include school library media centers, computer information programs, musIC education, literacy programs, personal enrichment classes, and adult and communin' education classes. C. Education in Boynton Beach The "Three (3) to Five (5) Year Strategic Planning Initiative" developed bv the City in June of 1995 contains the City's future educational goals, The educational goal statement reads: "Bv the vear 2000, the Citv of Bovnton Beach schooJ<; Boynton Vision 20120: Planning Our Future Background Paper ~, (including the new high school), will be recognized for improved quality of educational excellence by at least 25% over 1995 baseline indicators." The indicators of performance for goal attainment are as follows: 1) structured class sizes with no more than 25 students per instructor; 2) more students attending neighborhood schools; 3) permanent additions and new buildings replacing portables; 4) no portables at any school sites; 5) advisory boards and Chamber of Commerce involved in school planning; 6) improved achievement test scores; 7) reduced drop out rates; 8) increased high school graduation rate; 9) a broadened high school curriculum that better prepares students for entering the work force; and 10) more students entering college. The strategic plan also describes the strategies that the City plans to use in achieving the educational goal. The strategies are described below: · improve the qualifications of students entering the work force immediately after graduation; · by 1996, develop a city-wide policy whereby parents are allowed more participation in their child's education; · have the Education Advisory Board, Children and Youth Advisory Board, and Community Relations Board bring more educational issues and concerns to the attention of the City Commission for action; · continue to work with School Board members to maintain high quality education for all students; · have City officials disseminate information to the public concerning School Board decisions such as funding, new programs, and school boundaries; · install magnet programs in coastal schools to bring students in from other areas while retaining the concept of neighborhood schools for those who reside in the area; and · develop programs to monitor school truants and drop out programs. On May 21, 1991, the City of Boynton Beach established the Boynton Beach Education Advisory Board (EAB). The mission of the EAB is to ensure that each and Boynton Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future Background Paper 79 every child in Bovnton Beach receIves the best education possible while in a "ate secure environment conducive to learning. The EAB acts as a liaison between the City and the School Board, and, as an advisory group, informs the Mavor. (in' Commission, and parents of issues pertaining to schools attended bv t he children ill Boynton Beach. The EAB consists of seven regular members, two alternate member" and two local high school students. Terms are two-year staggered for regular members and one-year for alternate members and students. Board members aft.' elected bv the City Commission. , . The goals of the Educational Advisory Board are to: · maintain close relations with the Palm Beach County School Board; · continue to advocate for a new high school in Boynton Beach; · ensure that adequate funding and completion of a new Mathematics/Science!Technology Magnet high school or program In Boynton remains a priority; · follow the development of Poinciana Elementary School and support all efforts to ensure the ongoing renovation and new construction; · work toward designating Congress Middle School as the Mathematics, SciencefTechnology Magnet Program link between Poinciana Elementarv and the new high school; · ensure communication between individual School Advisorv Councils and School Improvement Councils (SACs and SICs), especially between elementary, middle, and high schools to aid the Upward Readines<" Program and establish a smooth transition from school to school; . closely follow the School Board's progress on the issue of racially balanced schools; and . assist local schools with obtaining volunteers for clinics, fund raisers. safety, school trips to businesses, tutors, speakers from the community sponsors. etc. The City also has a Business/Education Partnership (formerly known as the Education Committee of the Greater Boynton Beach Chamber of Commerce), which is a Division within the Board structure of the Chamber of Commerce The Business/Education Partnership Division is actively involved with projects and programs that will help to insure the availabilitv of a qualified, competent workforce Bovnton Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future Background Paper 'In able to compete in the global economy. The Division members work closely with School Board Personnel, school leadership teams, teachers, and the community. Some of the accomplishments of this group include involvement in the creation of the math/science/technology magnet school program at Poinciana Elementary School and facilitating funding efforts for a new school facility currently under design. Currently. the Division is pursuing the development of two new high schools in the City, including one to be located in Quantum Corporate Park. The Division also supports two Mentor Programs, STARMAKER and the I HAVE A DREAM program. STARMAKER, in existence for four years, involves business people serving as mentors to 7th grade minority and female students at Congress Community Middle School and is the only such program in the County. There are plans to set up a STARMAKER program at Poinciana Elementary School, as well. The I HAVE A DREAM program is working in Rolling Green Elementary School. It is designed as an early intervention program to encourage "at-risk" students to set and pursue educational goals. This program also partners business people with children. The Division is also involved in other programs including the annual Welcome Event and the School District's College and Career Night. Division members also serve on local School Advisory Councils and each May the Division hosts a program at the Membership Breakfast to honor and reward some of the City's outstanding high school youths. 1. Elementary Schools The City of Boynton Beach has five elementary schools serving children ages pre- kindergarten to eleven. The elementary schools are as follows: · Citrus Cove, established in 1990, has a student enrollment of 1,030 (300 students over capacity) with four portables; · Forest Park, established in 1955, has a student enrollment of 745 and 14 portables; Boynton Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future Background Paper 8\ · Galaxy. established in 1974. has a student enrollment of R04 I :.~OO students over capacity) with I I portables: · Rolling Green, established in 1962, has a student enrollment of 899 I ~~q- students over capacitv) with 19 portables; and · Poinciana which has a student enrollment of 450. All of the elementary schools provide after-school programs which include homework assistance, arts and crafts. recreation, and enrichment activities. curriculum. 2. Middle Schools There are two middle schools that serve the children of Boynton Beach: . Christa McAuliffe, established in 1987, is located outside the city limits and has a student enrollment of 1,920 (90 students over capacity) with 10 portables; and . Congress, established in 1974, has a student enrollment of 1.295 (K() students below capacity) with five portables. Bovnton Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future Background Paper 1-\'1 The middle schools provide the regular school curriculum as well as programs for Specific Learning Disability for the Emotionally Handicapped, Speech Impaired, Gifted, and high school credit courses in French, Spanish, algebra, and algebra honors. The Education Advisory Board is working with the School Board to designate Congress Middle as a magnet school linked to the Mathematics/Science/ Technology magnet program currently at Poinciana Elementary. Both middle schools provide after-school programs that include tutoring, activities, and recreation. 3. High Schools Currently there are no high schools in the City of Boynton Beach; therefore, over 1,800 students from Boynton Beach are bused to high schools outside the City's boundary. The three high schools attended by Boynton Beach students include: . Atlantic Community, established in 1970, with a student enrollment of 2,200 (600 students over capacity) and 25 portables; . Lake Worth Community, established in 1922, with a student enrollment of 2,328 (700 students over capacity) and 53 portables; and · Santaluces Community, established in 1983, with a student enrollment of 2,815 (415 students over capacity) and with ten portables. Atlantic Community High School offers over 300 courses from basic to advanced placement levels. They have an extensive elective program which includes vocational courses, four years of dance, four years of ROTC, and extensive classes in music, drama, and the visual arts. Atlantic also has the Geneva-based International Baccalaureate Program, a magnet program for academically talented and motivated students in southern Palm Beach County. An after-school academic assistance program in all subjects and levels is provided Monday through Thursday for students. Lake Worth Community High School' has a comprehensive academic program with courses in basic to advanced placement English, mathematics, science, social studies, and foreign languages, as well as electives in both the practical and performing arts. Lake Worth also has three magnet programs in Aerospace Science Boynton Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future Background Paper 83 Air Force JROTC, Medicine and Allied Health Professions, and the Criminal Justlce Academy. The school also offers a Homework A<;sistance program Mondav through Friday and provides teachers to monitor students waiting for transportation including TriRail. A construction and renovation program is underwav at the school phase one 'will be completed by March 1997, and phase two will be completed bv April 1 998. Santaluces Community High School offers a diversified curriculum that include" honors, Advanced Placement, Dual Enrollment, ESOL and ESE. Santaluces does not have a magnet program, but it has a highly advanced Technical Education program To address the need for a high school in Boynton Beach, the City Commission, Educational Advisory Board, business community, and the Boynton Beach Chambef of Commerce activelv lobbied the School Board to build a new high school in east Boynton. The School Board approved and purchased 46 acres in Quantum Corporate Park, and the school to be built there will serve as J Mathematics/Science!Technology Magnet School. The City has made preliminaf\ inquiries into a bond issue wherein the School Board would make the principal payments. In addition, there is an effort to have a high school built in the western part of the City. The Coalition of West Boynton Resident Associations (COWBRA) is active Iv lobbying the School Board for the construction of a new high school to be located on Jog Road West. Bovnton Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future Background Paper ~4 4. Private Schools County-wide, there are approximately 100 private schools, attended by 22,703 students from kindergarten to twelfth grade. The private schools are very diverse: some are closely related to a given religious denomination, while others are secular. Some private schools offer special education for those students with learning problems, some are aimed at the average student, and others are strictly college- preparatory. Parents may select educational alternatives from private schools which offer programs or philosophies differing from those available in public schools. The majority of the private schools in the City are accredited by the Florida Association of Academic Nonpublic Schools (FAANS). FAANS monitors legislation affecting private schools and provides members of the legislature with information and private school viewpoints on pending legislation that would affect the private sector. FAANS is an affiliated member of the nationwide Council for American Private Education (CAPE) which maintains an up-to-date interaction with a wide range of state, regional, parochial, and local associations. Some private schools are also accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS), a regional accrediting agency. 5. Pre-Schools There are several pre-schools within the City of Boynton Beach, including A Little Dude Ranch, Boynton Academy, Deb-N-Heir, Kidstop Early Learning Center, First Impression Day Care Center, Girtmans Treasure Chest Early Learning, La Petite Academy, Miss Little's School, and Youthland Academy of America, Inc. All pre- schools provide either before or after-school care or both. Boynton Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future Background Paper 85 6. Post-Secondary Schools " The citizens of Boynton Beach have access to a number of post-secondaf\r schooh that offer technical training and numerous undergraduate. graduate. and doctoral degrees. Some of these schools are described below Florida Atlantic University Established in 1961, Florida Atlantic University has numerous branche~ throughout Palm Beach and Broward Counties. The Boca Raton Campus In Palm Beach County is organized into nine colleges that offer undergraduate programs in 61 fields, graduate programs in 44 fields, and doctoral programs lfl 44 fields. Lynn University Established in 1962, Lynn University is a private, fully-accredited institution offering associate, undergraduate, and graduate degrees. Areas of concentration include business administration, hospitality, education, and an and design. Lynn University is located in Boca Raton. Northwood University, Established in 1984, Northwood University offers a four-year bachelor nt business administration degree in six fields including accounting, management, automotive marketing, and computer science. It also offers a two-yeaf associate of arts degree. Northwood is located if' West Palm Beach. Palm Bead \tlantic College In existenctnce 1968, Palm Beach Atlantic. a four-year Christian liberal arts college. The twenty-four undergraduate programs offered include business administration, computer science, mathematics, education, music, and theater arts. The university also offers a graduate program in business administration Palm Beach Community College Palm Beach Community College, established in 1933, offers associate of art~ and associate of science degrees, in addition to certificate programs. Academic programs include health education, medical technology, physical therapv. nursing, dental, radiological technology. and criminal justice. The college has four locations in Lake Worth, Palm Beach Gardens, Boca Raton. and Belle Glade. Bovnton Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future Background Paper .'if> South College South College is a two-year, career-oriented junior college which opened in 1984. The college offers an associate of science degree in seven fields, including accounting, business administration, computer information systems, and paralegal studies. The college is located in West Palm Beach. New England Institute of Technology at Palm Beach and Florida Culinary Institute New England Institute of Technology at Palm Beach and Florida Culinary Institute offers nine courses including culinary arts, electronics technology, engineering drafting and design, and refrigeration technology. D. Issues and Needs Continued growth throughout the County raises the issue of school overcrowding and lack of funding for facility construction. According to the 1990 U.S. Census, Palm Beach County had the second largest growth in Florida over the past five years, with the number of children growing faster than the state average. Palm Beach County grew by 102,076 residents, or 11.7%, from 1990 to 1995. The County is projected to have 1 million residents by 1997. The table below shows the population growth for selected counties in south Florida from July 1, 1990, to July 1, 1995. POPULATION GROWTH FOR SELECTED SOUTH FLORIDA COUNTIES County 1990 1995 Increase % Rank* Dade 1,943,364 2,031,336 87,972 4.5% 3rd Broward 1,261,866 1,412,165 150,299 11.9% 1st Palm Beach 870,017 972,093 102,076 11.7% 2nd Martin 101,867 111,069 9,202 9.0% 33rd St. Lucie 152,469 172,483 20,014 13.1% 19th Okeechobee 29,752 30,222 470 1.6% 63rd Glades 7,601 7,665 64 0.8% 67th *Rank is for growth in number of residents from 1990 to 1995. Source: 1990 U.S. Census. The budget of the Palm Beach County School District has increased somewhat, b~t it has not kept up with inflation. The School District reports that between 5,000 Boynton Vision 20120: Planning Our Future Background Paper 87 to 7,000 new students will be added each vear to the 5chool system, but the Dl'itrl\ 1 will be spending less per student. The School District has trimmed its budget, dlHl the savings are being allocated to the schools. In the 1992-1993 school vear. Palm Beach Countv spent $4,827 per elementaf\' and secondaf\' school child. ranking I nth out of the 67 counties in Florida. As a percent of total funding, federal and 'itan' government contributions have been declining somewhat, while local governmenT 'i share has increased. The table below shows the 1992-1993 funding sources If lr elementarv and secondarv schools in south Florida counties. FUNDING SOURCES FOR ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY SCHOOLS School District Federal State Local Total Palm Beach County $49,608 $225,363 $513,735 $788,707 Broward Countv $65,958 $551,892 $512,886 $1,130,736 Dade County $230,876 $1,004,131 $686,555 $1,921,562 Source: Florida Statistical Abstract, 1995. At the moment, the Palm Beach County School District is looking at new sources (It funding for school construction. Options under examination include a sales tax and a construction bond issue. One bill currently under debate by the State legislature would force home buver'i to help fund new school construction. If passed, school boards throughout the "tate will have the authority to raise the documentary stamp tax, paid by home buyers at closing. This is the third time that lawmakers have tried to pass this bill. Another issue that the Assembly will address is how to encourage vouth involvement in the communitv. Todav's youth are tomorrow's leaders, and d community in touch with the concerns of its young people will be a community that retains this population into the future. The City of Boynton Beach is trying to encourage youth involvement in the community through the Children and Youth Advisorv Board. The Board advises the City Commission on children's issues and promotes activities in the Citv for children Bovnton Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future Background Paper "';,'- and youth. It also advises the City Commission on the development of incentives and enhancements which would encourage the development of new child care facilities and identifies county, state, and federal programs that provide beneficial services to children and their families. The Board consists of seven regular members, two alternates, and three students. Members are appointed for two and three year terms. The City should continue to establish programs that target youth and encourage their participation in the community. Options include: 1) developing a program that matches youth volunteers with community needs; 2) requiring community service hours of high school students and linking this with scholarships to college; and 3) offering activities that foster good citizenship and increase positive interaction between seniors and youths. The construction of the new high school in the City raises another issue. Once completed, the school will provide Boynton Beach students with a sense of identity and community pride. However, the question may arise as to whether students from Boynton Beach will attend this school or will continue to be bused elsewhere to achieve racial balance. There is another issue which involves the provision of financial assistance to those Boynton Beach families having difficulty paying registration fees and dues for their children to participate in clubs, sports, and other activities. Currently, the City's Recreation and Parks Department does reduce fees for Boynton Beach residents; and the City has an assistance scholarship program for qualified families. However, increasing the availability of financial assistance to qualified families is an issue worthy of consideration. Boynton Vision 20120: Planning Our Future Background Paper 89 VI. CITY GOVERNMENT This section explores the City of Boynton Beach by exammmg the different elements that make up the City's structure. The first part describes the City in light of the Civic Index, and the second part sets forth possible issues and needs. A. The City of Boynton Beach The National Civic League lists ten components (the "Civic Index"), necessarv for an effectiv,e city. These ten components are described below with respect to the City of Boynton Beach. Assembly participants may find it beneficial to discuss individual components more fully while answering the Agenda Questions for Chapter VI to determine the effectiveness of their community and to prescribe a course of action designed to address any deficiencies that may exist. Citizen Participation-Citizen involvement in local affairs is a critical component III tht' creation of a vibrant and strong community. While the City of Boynton Beach has benefited from citizen participation in the past, City leaders are committed to offering residents more opportunities tor becoming active in their community. Citizens become involved in local affairs II1 a variety of ways. Though participation may be as basic as voting in local elections or voicing one's opinion in a letter to the editor of the local newspaper, one of the most common forms of participation is through involvement with one's neighborhood or homeowner/civic association. There are three neighborhood associations and approximately 50 to 60 homeowner/condominium associations in Boynton Beach: two of the most active are Leisureville and Village Royale on the Green. Many opportunities are provided for residents to come together In a communit\'- oriented atmosphere and enjoy what Bovnton Beach has to offer. Recent activitie<" Boynton Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future Background Paper q(! include: the Annual Egg Hunt, Spring Fun Day, the 12th Annual Benefit Spring Sports Festival, and Annual Parent Day (all held in April 1996); the 15th Annual Boynton G.A.L.A. (Great American Love Mfair), held on March 22-24; the 12th Annual Quilt Gathering at the Boynton Woman's Club, held on March 1-3; the Gold Coast Surf Festival at Oceanfront Park, held on March 2-3; the 25th Anniversary "Silver Holiday Magic" parade, held on December 10, 1995; and "The Party of the Century," which included two weeks of centennial festivities, in June and July 1995. Golf, fishing, square dancing, tennis, an in-line skating clinic, and many other activities and programs for residents of all ages and interests are available in Boynton Beach. The Boynton Beach City Library, in conjunction with the Palm Beach Community College Institute of New Dimensions, presented a series of Neighborhood Forums from January through April 1996. Moreover, February is Black Awareness Month throughout the U.S., and the City annually sponsors a number of activities to coincide with the national recognition. Upcoming events are also being planned, such as the Annual Talent Showcase (May 4th), the Sara Sims Park Fun Fest (May 26th), and the Eighth Annual Family Day Picnic to be held in August at Boat Club Park. The response to last year's Fourth of July Fireworks Spectacular was so overwhelming that the City plans to sponsor similar events in the future. The volunteer Neighborhood Watch groups are designed to involve residents in crime prevention. Citizens learn how to identify who does and does not belong in their neighborhood and how to report suspicious persons and activities to the police. Another form of participation includes service on one of the City of Boynton Beach Advisory Boards which provide direct input to the City Commission. Membership is by appointment, usually by the Mayor and City Commissioners. The functions of the Advisory Boards are described below, together with information about appointments and qualifications for membership, where these particulars are specified. Boynton Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future Background Paper 91 . Advisory Board on Children and Youth--Identifie-. the unmet need" (It children and youth in Bovnton Beach and makes recommendations to rht' Commission on how these needs can be met. . Board of Zoning AppealsuHears and decides appeals when it is alleged that there has been an error In any order, requirement, decision, or determination made by an administrative official in the enforcement ot any zoning ordinance or regulation lawfully adopted. Other functions relate to special exceptions and variances. . Building Board of Adjustment and Appeals--Provides citizen revie\v III the enforcement and interpretation of City codes relating to construction. Appointments include one architect, one general contractor or engineer and three members at large from the building industry. . Cemetery BoardnEstablishes rules and regulations for the management of the City's cemeteries and makes general recommendations to the Commission concerning their condition and development. At least half of the members must have cemetery or mortuary experience. . Civil Service Board--Makes recommendations to the Commission regarding rules and regulations for the City's Personnel Merit System provides an appeal process for employees who are dismissed, demoted. or suspended, and supervises personnel examination procedures. Member" must have government employment, government or private supervisof\' experience, legal background, or personnel experience. . Code Enforcement Board--Rules on code violations that are not corrected and attempts to find an equitable resolution to those problems. Membership is to include an architect, a business person, an engineer, a general contractor, subcontractor, realtor and/or those with building trade experience or other related technical experience. . Community Redevelopment. Advisory Board--Makes non-binding recommendations to the Commission on issues concerning community redevelopment. Bovnton Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future Background Paper 9,) . Community Relations Board--Provides a vehicle for citizen input on problems directly affecting the delivery of services connected with health, welfare, safety, and housing, and provides informational programs; also reviews and recommends expenditure of funds allocated by the Commission for social services. . Education Advisory Board-- Identifies and considers school- and education-related issues and makes recommendations to the Commission on what actions should be taken to address those issues. . Golf Course Advisory Board--Gives input and advice on general planning, maintenance, and operation of the Boynton Beach Municipal Golf Course but does not consider funding or financial management of the course. Those appointed must be annual permit holders and/or reasonably regular greens fee players. Membership is from throughout the County. . Library Board--Advises the Commission, meets regularly with the library Director, and provides support for the City's library system. Members must be Boynton Beach library card holders. . Nuisance Abatement Board--Hears evidence relating to the existence of drug-related or youth and/or street gang-related public nuisances on premises located within the City. All five members must be City residents. The chairman is an attorney with trial experience, licensed to practice law in the State of Florida. . Pension Board (includes the General Employee Pension Board, the Firefighters' Pension Trust Fund, and Police Officers' Pension Trust Fund)-- The City's pension system is guided by the City Charter/City Code and State statutes, and consists of four different systems. The Fire Department and the Police Department each have separate pension systems managed by separate pension boards. The general employees of the City participate in a third pension plan, which is administered by a pension board. The fourth arrangement allows employees to participate in deferred compensation retirement progr~s, administered separately. Boynton Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future Background Paper 93 . Planning and Development Board--Prepares, approves, and updates the Comprehensive Land Use Plan for the City; reviews and make" recommendations on all development master plans, site plans. and planned unit developments; reviews the Zoning Ordinance: makes recommendations on rezonings and revisions to the Zoning and Subdivision Ordinances: also makes recommendations concerning the aesthetic attributes of those projects. Membership should include. but l'i not limited to, design professionals licensed in the diSCIplines i d architecture, landscape architecture, landscape design, and planning. . Recreation and Park Board--Provides CItizen input and makes recommendations relative to Recreation and Parks programming and facility development. Board representation is to include a variety of age groups; members should have experience in and knowledge of recreation programs, community special events, and/or park and facilitv design, development, and maintenance. . Senior Advisory Board--Identifies unmet needs of elderly residents and makes recommendations to the Commission on how those needs can be met. Community Leadership-Leadership from all three sectors (public, private, and nonprofit) is essential to a healthy communiry. Public Leadership-Members of the City Commission come from a background of civic involvement. In an effort to improve accessibility, Commission meetings are now regularly scheduled in the evenings. Several Palm Beach Countv Commission members are also strong supporters of Boynton Beach. (Please also refer to the section on "Government Performance" immediately below.) Private Leadership-Corporate involvement is vital to a thriving community. For example, seven area banks are currently participating in the Boynton Beach Home Improvement Program. The banks include Bank Boynton, Banvan Bank, Barnett Bank of Palm Beach County, First Federal, First Union National Bank of Florida, Boynton Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future Background Paper ')4 NationsBank, and Prime Bank. Employees of Motorola's Paging Products Group, among others, are helping in the "Let's Build a Playground" project. Many other companies lend their support to community events and include, but are not limited to: BellSouth Mobility, Columbia JFK Medical Center, Hunter's Run Golf and Racquet Club, Waste Management of Palm Beach, WXEL TV/FM, Channel 42 (PBS) and WFLX Channel 29 (FOX) (television stations), WIRK 107.9 (radio station), and Saturn of Delray. Ideally, APAClUnited Parcel Service (UPS), which is installing a Customer Service Communication Center for UPS in Quantum Park, will also be a strong supporter of the City's endeavors, as will other new businesses coming to Boynton Beach. Nonprofit Leadership-Bethesda Memorial Hospital, named in late 1994 as one of the top 100 hospitals in the U.S. for cost-effective, quality health care, is a private not-for-profit entity managed by Bethesda Health Care Corporation. Bethesda Memorial is one of the leading nonprofit supporters in the community. The Boynton Woman's Club, the Friends of the Boynton Beach Library, the Kiwanis, Optimist, and Rotary clubs of Boynton Beach, the Community Caring Center of Boynton Beach, the Boynton Community Life Center, and the "I Have A Dream" Foundation, among others, are also active in the City. Moreover, Leadership Palm Beach cultivates new civic leaders from around the County on an ongoing basis. The City of Boynton Beach is a member of the Greater Boynton Beach Chamber of Commerce, formed in 1948 to foster a healthy economic and social climate in the community. The Chamber, a volunteer organization of more than 700 local businesses and organizations, "is a working partnership...organized to create and execute a united effort to carry forward a broad program of business and total community development." The Chamber now has a World Wide Web Page (http://www.emLnet/boynton) for the promotion of tourism and local businesses, and Boynton Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future Background Paper 95 for the world-wide presentation of Bovnton Beach as an excellent site for busine"" relocation or start-up. To enhance its visibility on a count v-wide basis, the Citv of Bovnton Beach IS a member of the Business Development Board of Palm Beach Countv (BDB). The BDB is a private, not-for-profit corporation founded in 1982 by seven Chambers ot Commerce, the Economic Council of Palm Beach Countv, and other progressive business leaders. Designated bv the State of Florida as the official economic development agency for the County, the purpose of the BDB is "to attract, retain and grow businesses in Palm Beach County." Government Performance-While government cannot be held responsible for solving all l~t an area's problems, it must be both effective and ifficient if it is to play a positive role in the communiry. Boynton Beach has a city manager/city commission form of government. Voters elect a Mayor and four City Commissioners, who meet twice monthly to set City policy. The City Commissioners the Mayor are elected to two-year terms and are limited by the City Charter to serving two consecutive two-year terms. The Commission hires a City Manager to oversee the day-to-day operations of the City. The boundaries of the districts are roughly as follows: · District I--Gulfstream Boulevard to Woolbright Road; · District II--Boynton Beach Boulevard to Gateway Boulevard; · District III--Woolbright Road to Boynton Beach Boulevard; and · District IV --Gateway Boulevard to Hypoluxo Road. The Appendix contains a chart showing the organizational structure of the Citv's government. Departments include Development, Finance, Fire, Golf Course. Human Resources (formerly Personnel), Information Technology Services (formerly Data Processing), Library, Planning, Police, Public Works, Recreation and Parks, Utilitie~. and the City Manager's and City Clerk's Offices. For the current fiscal vear (199'). 96), the City has 744 full-time and 91 part-time employees. Boynton Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future Background Paper Cih Boynton Beach, as all cities, is expected to provide exceptional levels of service. The City continues to work toward efficiency and collaboration in such areas as police, fire, code enforcement, and solid waste management. One of the major issues in dealing with government services is the public's perception of the City's effectiveness and responsiveness in meeting its needs. While many citizens believe that service delivery is good, there is always room for improvement. For the City to improve in these areas, the citizens of Boynton Beach should clearly define their expectations of government services, just as the government should clearly communicate to the public what services are offered and the ways in which they are provided. V olunteerism and Philanthropy-Bamng new resources from an already strapped public sector, community members are faced with giving more of their own time, monry, and in-kind service to help themselves. To deal with dwindling public dollars, the City is cultivating and encouraging corporate sponsorship of events. However, corporate giving in general has declined in recent years due to restructuring, downsizing, and other economic factors experienced at all levels. To keep the budget balanced, the City has used refinancing of bonds, targeted user fees, prioritization and reorganization of service delivery, and privatization of services, where practical. Many opportunities for citizen involvement are also available. The citizens of Boynton Beach have invested and continue to invest thousands of hours in volunteer service to their City and neighborhoods. For example, they serve on Advisory Boards; participate in neighborhood, homeowner, and condominium associations; and participate in such activities as the Library Quilters and the Friends of the Library group, which logs about 7,000 volunteer hours per year. In fact, the Recreation and Parks Department calculated that from January through December 1995, volunteer hours totaled 12,828, helping to make the department's programs a resounding Boynton Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future Background Paper 97 success. Citv staff, church groups, <;efVIce organizations, and others also makt' significant contributions. Intergroup Relations-As communltzes see more diversiry in their populations (whether racial, ethnic, socioeconomic, religious, age, etc.), programs that encourage diverse segments of the population to communicate well and work together for a common purpose become increasinr.;lv important, The City has to address the needs of all its residents, including racial and ethnic minorities, a growing number of immigrants and non-English speaking resident..;. youths, and senior citizens. There is also a certain amount of economic diversitv to consider. . It is noteworthy that issues involving traffic, crime, and children/youths cur across all groups, affecting and concernIng everyone. Interest in the resolution of these issues can bring people together, fostering communication and consensus building. Several initiatives are already in progress in Boynton Beach. Communi tv Police Officers (CPOs) patrol sections of the City on foot and on bicycles, interacting with residents and assisting with social and government-service needs. The Recreation Athletics, and Police (RAP) program provides opportunities for "at risk" vouths to participate in activities that would otherwise be unavailable to them. The weeklv Wrice Process marches attempt to unite residents, police, and Citv officials in the effort to confront loiterers and drug dealers and encourage them to stop peddling their wares. Moreover, the Police Department is preparing to launch its new Citizen Observer Patrol program. Also noteworthy is the work of the Community Caring Center of Boynton Beach. a nonprofit organization that provides help for residents in crisis. This center is co- sponsoring forums with the Boynton Community Life Center, which assists young mothers and their children. The purpose of these forums is to foster improved communication among individuals and groups in the African American community ot Boynton Beach. Meetings have taken place since Januarv of this vear and the focus I" Bovnton Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future Background Paper <.l.'-i on drug-related crime, apathy among residents, and the need for an Mrican American member on the City Commission. A major concern is to create a better life for children. The group may form a neighborhood association to promote its agenda. Civic Education-if the civic infrastructure is to remain strong, it is crucial to work with area schools and community groups to help people of all ages develop values, knowledge, and skills that will contribute to the greater good and civic health of the community. Contributing to civic education in Boynton Beach are an active DARElGREA T (Drug Abuse Resistance Education/Gang Resistance Education And Training) program, a Citizens' Police Academy, the Explorer program, the Juvenile First Offender program, the Education Advisory Board, residential and business Crime Watch programs, library programs such as Great Decisions, Neighborhood Forums, the Chamber's STARMAKER program, and other efforts. Citizenship and civic responsibility are taught in a variety of classes in Palm Beach County public schools at the middle- and high-school levels; availability of these courses is dependent upon student interest and other factors. Students also have opportunities to participate in volunteer community-service activities, such as Outlook Club for the Blind and Deaf Club. The schools themselves and the City's Recreation and Parks Department, for example, organize several community-service activities for students and other youths. Community Information Sharing-~ether it be the media, a civic organization, a university, or a school system, some mechanism is necessary for generating and sharing information and educating the public on major issues. In addition to information provided by the area's major newspapers and radio and television stations, community information sharing is achieved on an ongoing basis through meetings of neighborhood and homeowner associations. The circulation of newsletters and the free weekly paper, the Boynton Beach Times, also serves to disseminate information. Boynton Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future Background Paper 99 As previously stated, the Recreation and Parks Department publishes Fun(arri three times a year. Funfare! is designed to keep citizens updated with regard to C:it\ government, activities, communitv news, and recreation and educational program" City emplovees benefit from Friday Edition, a newsletter published bv the env" Public Information Officer with columns contributed by the City Manager and other departmental personnel. The Friends newsletter published six times a vear inform.;; the community on library programs and volunteer opportunities. Finally, the Crime Prevention Office of the Boynton Beach Police Department publishes On The Beat.' t () foster improved communications wi th the communnv and \vi t h Neighborhood/Residential Crime Watch groups. The publication include,> announcements of Neighborhood Watch meetings, monthlv crime statistic,> descriptions of incidents, and recognition of the Officer of the Month Capacity for Cooperation and Consensus Building-It is important that all three sectors (public, private, and nonprofit) be able to work together, first to identify common goals and then to achieve them. As Boynton Beach prepares for the 21 st Century, better communication and coordination among all sectors of the community will be essential. The corporate community, nonprofit sector, residents, and government should all share in the creation and maintenance of a strong and vital community. Forums such as thi" Assembly can encourage intergroup cooperation and consensus building. Interdependence and collaboration at the local government level are exemplified by (1) inter-city police, fire, public works, utilities, engineering, and planning and zoning agreements, among other cooperative arrangements; ( 2 ) C i ty/Countv agreements for social services, traffic management, arts, culture, community schools, after-school care, and the joint use of Lake Ida and Caloosa parks; and (3 i City/County/State agreements regarding growth management, bridges and roads, and Bovnton Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future Background Paper IIHI APPENDIX Boynton Vision 20/20 Assembly Steering Committee Robert Hill Steering Committee Chair CEO, Bethesda Memorial Hospital Bob Taylor Steering Committee Vice Chair Vice President, Finance-Treasurer, Bethesda Memorial Hospital Hank Ackermann Pastor, Congregational United Church of Christ Stuart Adelkoff Boynton Beach James Darst Asst. Vice President, Republic Security Bank Ginny Foot The Art of Framing Mike Friedland President, Boynton Beach Jewish Center Beth Kodesh Angela Girtman Chair, Advisory Board on Children and Youth Keturah Lee Member, Advisory Board on Children and Youth Gary Lehnertz Staff Programmer, IBM Bill Lynch President, Boynton Leisureville .I Homeowners Association Art Matthews Owner, Rainbow City Grocery Store Lena Rahming Chairperson, Boynton Beach Black Awareness Committee Howard Solomon Century 21 Home Showcase Jamie Titcomb, Commissioner President, James Titcomb Creative, Inc. Debbie Tomello Member, Boynton Beach Code Enforcement Ron Tufo Training Manager, Motorola Paging Products Group Boynton Vision 20/20 Assembly Sponsors (As of April 15, 1996) BankBoynton, F.S.B. Barnett Bank BellSouth Bethesda Memorial Hospital Boynton Leisureville Community Association, Inc. Boynton Beach Rotary Columbia JFK Medical Center Delray Community Hospital Fidelity Federal Savings Bank Florida Power and Light Co. Friends of the Boynton Beach Library Greater Boynton Beach Chamber of Commerce Hardrives, Inc. Hunters Run Golf and Racquet Club James Titcomb Creative, Inc. Karl Corporation Kilday & Associates, Inc. Marriott Senior Living Services (Brighton Gardens) Mouw Associates, Inc. Republic Security Bank Suntrust Bank, South Florida, N.A. The Art of Framing FACILITIES LOCATOR Arbor Park Seacrest Blvd/Woolbright Rd Benches, Variety o/Native Trees, each identified with a plaque Art & Activity Center, 125 SE 2nd Avenue Art and Craft Rooms. !.,feeting Room, Clay Room, Art and Athletic Staff Offices Barton Memorial Park NW 10th Ave./NW 5th St. Passive Bicentennial Park U.S. liNE 3rd Avenue Benches Boat Club Park U.S. liNE 21st Avenue Boardwalk, Boat Ramps, Grills, Horseshoes, Picnic Shelters, Pier, Recreation Building, Restrooms, Volleyball Boynton Beach Civic Center 128 E. Ocean Avenue Auditorium, Classroom, Playground. Dance Studio, Restrooms Boynton Beach Municipal Golf Course 8020 Jog Road, 969-2203 Golf Course, Pro Shop. Restaurant, Driv- ing Range. Putting/Chipping Green Boynton Lakes Park 300 Boynton Lakes Blvd. Children's playgrounds, exercise path, open play area, bocce Caloosa Park (County Facility) 1300 SW 35th Avenue Bull fields. Grills, Jogging Trail, Shelters, Playground, Racquetball, Restrooms, Ten- niS, ~'olleyball. Fishing Lake City Hall 100 East Boynton Beach Boulevard Administrative Offices. Customer Service. Commission Chambers Community Built Playground Ocean A venue near Civic Center Designed/or and by children; built by vol- unteers Congress Avenue Racquet Center 3111 S. Congress Avenue Tennis Courts, Pro Shop. Restrooms Congress Community School 101 S. Congress A venue Community School Classes on and off site Ezell Hester Jr. Park & Center 190 I North Seacrest Boulevard Gymnasium. Weight Room. Teen Center, Sports Fields, Concessions, Picnic Shelters. Meeting Rooms, ,Vature Preserve, Softball, Locker Rooms, Restrooms Forest Hills Park SW 8th AveiSW 24th PI. Basketball, Horseshoes. Picnic Shelters. Playground, Softball, V ofleybafl Galaxy Park 459 W. Boynton Beach Blvd. Picnic Shelters, Playground, Restrooms, Softball. Tennis Heritage Park North Seacrest Boulevard Benches. Monument Hibiscus Park NW 7th Street/Ocean Drive Basketball, Benches. Playground Jaycee Park South Federal Highway Benches, Bocce. Horseshoes. Picnic Tables Laurel Hills Park NW 7th St./NW 5th Ave. Basketball, Playground Library 208 South Seacrest Boulevard Little League Park 300 Woolbright Road Baseball. Concessions, Horseshoes, Restrooms, Softball Madsen Center 145 SE 2nd Avenue Recreation Building, Restrooms, Shuffle- board Oceanfront Park A I A, Ocean Ridge Benches. Boardwalk. Concession, Grills. Picnic Shelters. Playground, Restrooms Meadows Park 4305 Meadows Blvd. Tennis, Sand Volleyball. Bocce. Pinic Shel- ters, Horseshoes, Children's Playground, Exercise Path Palmetto Greens South side of C -16 Canal, Between N. Seacrest Blvd. and FEC Railroad Tracks Two fishing piers, 2.000 ft. paved walkway Pence Park SE 4th StreeUSE 5th A venue Basketball, Playground. Restrooms, Soft- ball Pioneer Canal Park NW 13th Avenue Basketball, Boat Ramps, Grills, Picnic Shel- ters, Pier. Playground, Restrooms, Tennis Rolling Green Park 550 Miner Road Baseball, Basketball. Jogging Trail, Play- ground, Softball, Sports Fields, Tennis Royal Palm Clubhouse 554 Gateway Boulevard Recreation Building, Restrooms Sara Sims Park 209 NW 9th Court Basketball, Picnic Shelters, Playground, Racquetball, Restrooms, Tennis Veterans Park East Ocean A venue Benches Wilson Center & Park 211 NW 13th Avenue Auditorium. Basketball, Gameroom, Plav- ground, Recreation Building, Restrooms. Softball, Sports Fields, Volleyball Wilson Pool 311 NW 12th Avenue Restrooms, Swimming Pool Hold on to this magaJ'ine! Information featured is useful through \Ia~ 'l)(). 37 GOLF _ COURSE ~ CJ o .., z ~ f-4 ~ t: i HYPOLUXO MEADOWS BOYNTON PARK LAKES PARK -- BOYNTON CONGRESS .. COMMUNITY MIDDLE SCHOOL RACQllET .. CENTER GATEWAY i. 4< PIONEER f1J CANAL PARK f1J t) LAUREL CJ HILLS PARK ~II CJ GALAXY PARK II BEACH II III DISClIS PARK WOOLBRIGHT FOREST IIIUS" PARK .. CALOOSA PARK ROAD BOULEVARD HESTER. ~ CENTER ~ IQ WILSON II WILSON POOL CENTER SARA SIMS I HERITAGE PARK PARK I BARTON MEMo. PARK BOULEVARD 10 0) I ... / LIBRARY ROAD .. urru: LEAGlJE PARK , I ROLLING GREEN PARK ROYAL PALM CLUBHOUSE PALMJ:TTO GRUN L1NJ:AR PARK N.I:. 13TH AVI:NVI: ti t) ~ f1J BICI:NTI:NNlAL PARK_ l'IlTIlRE SITE 0' CITY HALL CIlLTlJRAL CDlTRE" COMMIlNITY PLAYCROIlNDI "IJ HISTORIC SCHOOL E. OCEAN AVE. CIVIC CENTER I..ER. MADSEN CENTER .. EDWARD F. HARMENING ARBOR PARK . V[TJ:RAN'S PARK .. PENn: PARK - BOAT CLUB PARK ~ f1J ~ ~ fI) ~ / ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~, '- ~ - i ~ I u o ~ to) o to) .... fo4 ~ ~ !C ~EE( PARK ~ !~, ~~~'\I\-l~ < 'i--al~ ....]....,.;; ....1 !' ltl:'r. ,_,.:--"1 I ... _, 11 ~l'-" ~~:~l ~"('t- · ~I"'r'~~,\',-t\':-"':'''::,~ -~'~l. ~ .. ~ ' ", ..,,, ._.." = 'I "=' .. ~ .. [1' .. ! ,_ ' """:;. ........ . ~ i ' i ~i-" 14~' ~ - ' $CSi:\', - "~$. oM · I.. !~. ! ~i\~ ~ ~~ <t l~' ~~s g " ," i .-" j ,-' ~.Il ':-OJ _' _-,'" .' J!!' I - . .... 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I I I ,.------- ZONE: 168 16A .. -----~------------------ ---------- o ac Q NEPTUNE b zog: f7A_ - , 1 OFOtIlD eT .. __, ""OEN eT _ . .~EAnEV ..0 - -5 W...EAnEV eT . FOllIOAO CT ., OAVOEN CT . AMt4EIIIST ell' . AM...tl'ST CT '.IAI. WAY 10 ANOOVEA C'T ~Ul.l. WAY 111"AOFOAO eT :GRET WAY 12 CHAWIC\( CT lhGFIS"'E" WV,3COPE\..Y eT ~NOP\P(R WV r-ANE WAY 71 ST S 17" ~ w ~ '1 \II tit ,2-0d: f 1.!- 1'\ Sl S o ~ ~cS .:- M\NE"- '\ " _._ ._ _' B - - ,-~ -,---- --- - -- \ \ , \ \ ) \ I \ I \ I l.__-A 1 I I f . I Of\ \'\. / . I I . I I '"I \ , . ',- ... I ~ COMME~CE ~ p~fl.l( .,.~'( ~ t1A ........ \ \ Sybat \ \ S4ualt , \ , \ \ MO't01l0L~ \ \ \ , . I I \ \ \ \ \ . \ f' - ----" )fa \\" I" zoNES: '8 r. t9 ---- - ... to- ?\6I'1e~\' f/) canal e" V rl<. 0 .... t"'- AV u ,. 4. '8 ~ _ ..e"e'lln A'lI HarlOw. Aw .. (/') ''Ia'' . A'I :J ~ KltelV Awe ":It. Lott\I" A" ~ MarlOW A'I Z BE~CK r- - '" MALL ~ " ~ l ~ r-- ------ ~ --- --------, I I I HI 111- i m~ -I 'ii ell I~ Ifillll ~S~ L&.1I. '--- L..-- ... t~ Si ~~.. s~ ssi,! ~s f ~ J - - - -jII ill j c we I] - - .1 i - h -h>---~----- I~ !dll,IJ ~~ IMI)J ~II ~ I jl~lli !", ~ ~-w ~ ~ .-- i~ ~J IJ J I] '-- ~ J iId i1 - - L_u___u_ H ,. i~ r ill >-_u J if I e. hnt III 5) ~ hel i,'. ~ ~ I 5U Ie 5 ~ i! ti --- I i ~ll !~ IIl-:------->--u-- l! JJII~i -u 1,11111 '- ~~ I I L- f~Jll.! i> ~ I L-- I (_ .-- I..i I ! ~ : 5~ ~ J HI-: ~ J. fd ~j ~----=----- J! Ifl.iU .If il!,I~Jflljl .'a : Jit ~ll5 ~~! Ilal L-- I --- 81 .-- :Ij~ j~ I ~ Ij .. lfl-! _ I~ ai, L. J I II II ~ ~ :__~___u_ ~~ nm · J J5a JI~.a e. . ! g l !! I q!iJhi~~ 5fw~Jf~~~ mass transit. As noted above, several private companies are also involved in the provision of services within Boynton Beach. Community Vision and Pride-Every community needs a way to focus on its own vision for its long-tenn future. Events such as the Downtown Design Charrette (September 1994), the Three to Five Year Strategic Planning Initiative (June 1995), and this Assembly enable goal setting and long-term visioning to take place. Citizens participating in these processes represent a diverse cross-section of the community and are provided an opportur:i.ty to help determine the future course for Boynton Beach. Other mechanisms for involving citizens in local government affairs include focus groups and community forums, such as the events currently co-sponsored by the Community Caring Center of Boynton Beach and the Boynton Community Life Center. These forums are an effort to enhance communication both within the community and between the community and the City's elected officials. Regional Cooperation-To be competitive and successful, communities need to cooperate on the regional level. The City is directly involved with several regional agencies, such as the Treasure Coast Regional Planning Council and the South Florida Water Management District. At the County level, the City interacts with such entities as the Palm Beach County Metropolitan Planning Organization, the School Board of Palm Beach County, the Sheriffs Office, HRS, the Department of Environmental Resource Management, Contractor Certification, the Housing Authority, Parks and Recreation, and the Palm Beach County Municipal League. Boynton Beach also maintains working relationships with the Lake Worth Drainage District, the City of Delray Beach, and the Town of Ocean Ridge. Boynton Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future Background Paper 101 B. Issues and Needs At the 100th National Conference on Governance sponsored bv the National Civic League in November 1994, Daniel Yankelovich, chair of DYG, Inc., a marketing and management consulting firm in Ne\\l York. reported that "people are frustrated and angry, anxious and off balance, pessimistic about the future. and cynical about all forms of leadership in government. .,1 These observations are supported by other research which reveals that people, in general, fail to participate in the C.S. political process for a variety of reasons. Some of these reasons include: people feel they are denied access to the political process; they have no sense of connection to the issue~ their faith in the mechanisms of public expression has been shaken; thev often do nO! know how to participate; the power brokers hold ultimate decision-making power: political campaigns turn people off; it's "politics as usual"; and the media focus onlv ') on the negative.- Empowering citizens to become involved in local government and communnv decision-making can help them feel more in control and less disconnected while strengthening the relationship between citizens and public officials. empowerment programs may take a number of forms. including: Citizen · convening community forums and focus groups; · engaging citizens in consensus-building, visioning processes similar to this Assembly and the 1994 Downtown Design Charrette for determining the future of the community and for monitoring the implementation ot recommendations made at other such events; . developing citizen/government partnerships for neighborhood servIce delivery; and . promoting community-oriented public safety and governance. I Public Management, vol. 78. no. 2 (February 1996), p. A-I. 2 Ibid. Pp. A-I to A-2. Bovnton Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future Background Paper l():2 -X- Boynton Beach residents may also want to help empower themselves by forming a Council of Neighborhood and Homeowner Associations, such as the one at work in the City of Fort Lauderdale. At the heart of community leadership in that city is the Council of Fort Lauderdale Civic Associations, Inc. ("Council"). This broad base of neighborhood associations (of 53 active associations, 40 are Council members) responds collectively to existing needs and plans pro actively regarding such issues as traffic, growth management, health and sanitation, social services, and the environment. The Council provides a way to discover what is happening throughout the City, serving as a vehicle to improve communication in neighborhoods and encouraging members to see beyond their own backyards. The Council also lobbies local government officials for the provision of particular neighborhood improvements. Another method of bringing government closer to the people of Boynton Beach is currently under discussion. A "City Hall in the Mall," which would consist of a kiosk or store front building within Boynton Beach Mall, has been proposed. Here, residents could pay water bills, obtain information about recreation programs, and buy a beach parking pass or golf membership. Such a service center could be open on weekends and other times during the week when City Hall is closed. Department heads and City Commissioners could spend time there talking with residents about their concerns. In 1990, the City of St. Petersburg became the first city in the U.S. to open a branch office in a mall. Approximately 800 people per week visit the satellite office to register to vote, pay utility bills, inquire about city functions, lodge complaints, and obtain job applications. The City could also increase public awareness of community issues by holding "town hall meetings" in different areas of the City and/or televising City Commission meetings on cable TV, as the City of Hollywood has done for several years. Perhaps a call-in program during Commission meetings could be arranged, or a specific time for citizen requests/comments during these meetings might be designated. Boynton Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future Background Paper 103 These and other mechanisms can contribute to the empowerment of Boynton' residents, while helping to instill a greater sense of community and pride among members of the City's diverse population. I Bovnton Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future Background Paper l()4 BOYNTON BEACH VISION 20/20: PLANNING OUR FUTURE DRAFT POLICY STATEMENT At the close of their discussion at the Boynton Beach Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future American Assembly held at Indian River Plantation, May 2-4, 1996, the participants as a group reviewed the following statement. The statement represents general agreement; however, no one was asked to sign it. Furthermore, it should not be assumed that every participant subscribes to every recommendation included in the statement. "f\OA~~~ n~~t~~ ,.~ - ~--I-'~'n'.:_ f)~,-,~-,. -4..-f;.r , (~,-__."..A "'~/ ~ ~~~ ~ ~~~~~V~. . \~.~~~. ~~~~~. A--t ~--tk 7-' ~ ~ ~~ 1,1+ ~.~. INTRODUCTION The City of Boynton Beach developed around the Intracoastal Waterway in the eastern-central portion of Palm Beach County between West Palm Beach and Boca Raton. With Gulf Stream currents that run just a mile offshore, Boynton is known as "The Gateway to the Gulf Stream." Some of the issues and needs facing the City include promoting commercial and neighborhood revitalization, community unity, and increased citizen involvement in government. To help determine the future course for their City, a Steering Committee was assembled in November, 1995, to plan the Boynton Beach Vision 20/20: Planning Our Future Assembly. The Committee developed an agenda centered around seven major policy areas which shaped the topics of discussion at the Assembly: Quality of Life/Image and Character, Commercial Revitalization, Economic Development, Neighborhood Revitalization, Public Safety/Crime Prevention, City Government, and Education. On May 2-4, 1996, approximately 100 citizens gathered to consider these issues and to try to forge a shared vision of Boynton Beach's future. The participants represented the public and private sectors, civic groups, and the community at large. The conclusions and recommendations reached by the forum are set out below. 2 'of .../ .~ I. Quality of Life/Image and Character A. The City has great diversity. Boynton Beach does not have an identifiable downtown, but is made up of a number of different ar~ch having its own identity. T~~~ different images need to be integrated into a ~ified city image portraying a ;J ~ diversified, family-oriented community that is inclusive. progressive and balanced, r .~ -- stable, and self-sustaining. Generally, Boynton Beach is a good place for people to live, work, and play. The City should also draw upon its coa__n,an<to~an amenities as the "Gateway to the Gulfstream." To develop a .. ~y ~and an identifiable city character, the City should: 1. Create a more "user-friendly" government structure, especially for code enforcement and zoning divisions. a. Improve city "customer service" by increasing personal contact between City employees and residents, and providing "sensitivity" training for City staff. Show appreciation to public employees who provide exceptional service. b. Increase distribution of city resources information. Provide a directory of city services. Educate the public as to which services are provided by the City and which are provided privately. c. Evaluate city regulations to identify economic development inhibitors. d. Review city service providers. Consider using regional or county providers if that would streamline efforts or prevent duplication of services. Consider privatization of some City services. 2. Improve city relations with the media. 3. Improve police department/community relationship. Promote community policing. Improve response time, particularly in the City's north section. 4. .e~_c;;r ~oPt. a common theme and initiating a beautification program to create a unified city image. 3 ~.. f,b~) t A qS/ 5. Redevelop Ocean AvenueAas abasic building block in developing the city's image. 6. Expand propeto.1;:th . Month program for recognition of improvement in I ( /; appearance. l' (L , 7. Improve networking between neighborhood associations (Leo, council of neighborhood associations). 8. Work with School Board to fund a community high school in Boynton Beach. B. The general strategies and policies necessary to promote the type of City participants desire include: 1. Preparing a overall design plan to address business, residential, and landscaping strategies to be implemented in phases. 2. Promote the good things in Boynton Beach. 3. Encouraging neighborhood associations to concentrate on fixing up their neighborhoods. p~or prARsure may be more effe.)Livo;; L1lan he'/ing the Cit)""be ~9U~' 4. Equitable code enforcement in all areas of the city. - 5. Encou~aging civic and other community organizations to ~ and/or dilapidated property and turn the property into '~~~~P8ee (not at public expense). These same organizations could sponsor special events and activities as well as set up a volunteer pool to assist with revitalization and maintenance of public spaces (e.g., adopt-a-street programs). 6. Creating an association or council of neighborhood associations to coordinate revitalization efforts. 7. Emphasizing marine activities to develop a nautical image, for example, fishing and diving. 8. Investigating traffic patterns throughout the downtown area and identify the City's anchors so that different areas may be linked through traffic patterns. 4 ~ 9. Encouraging mixed use development ~n;~rPi\rk in the community redevelopment area. 10. Encouraging public use of the marina. 11. Issuing bonds through the Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) to raise funds for improving the City's image. 11. Developing a task force to determine how to encourage businesses to locate in Quantum Corporate Park. 12. Addressing housing needs for middle-class families and young families in orde~ aUrae). famili~ area. _ lvl1~/l. 13. ~; position of Ombudsma~d;~I~ith <do~pqaints about City departments and implementation of regulations. 14. Networking all public agencies and public leaders to encourage outreach to the public and input by a broader representation of citizens. ~. C. The business community, civic groups, neighborhood associations, and individuals can assist the City in promoting community unity by: 1. Developing a working partnership with the City to implement the vision that grows out of this process. 2. Creating a forum so that neighborhood groups may present their concerns to the City with assurance that they will be considered and acted upon appropriately. 3. Fostering the creation of neighborhood associations. D. The following actions should be taken to improve recreational and cultural opportunities within the City: ~ 1. (There is a lack of adequate ~ilities for YOuth)EXpand city services and recreational opportunities through the use of volunteers and donated facilities to improve affordable after-school care, daycare, and youth programs. 2. Lobby the School Board for increased use of facilities. 5 3. Seek grants and state support to fund identified needs in this area. to 4. Evaluate the facilities/activities offered throughout the region and avoid) fJ! duplication of these efforts. Instead, rely on a more regional approach to 1J recreational and cultural programs, including shared services. 5. Improve security at recreation facilities, perhaps through a community police force or better police protection at the neighborhood level. .~ 6. Spend funds on a cultural center and a ''.Hrst~C-t!rsS'1 events coordinator to attract people to cultural events in Boynton Beach. 7. Plant trees in existing parks to increase shade, ~ ~ ~ '\J 8. Identify and design a community gathering place for a variety of activities. This might be a joint venture between public and private sectors, such as including an auditorium in plans for the new high school; or developing an intracoastal park with a marine image. qA~ 6 II. Commercial Revitalization A. The City needs to have a recognizable downtown and should take the following actions to promote revitalization of the downtown: 1. Define the downtown based on a nautical image. 2. Develop "gateways" wherever a major road enters the City. These gateways would feature welcoming signs and directional signs to the downtown and other major areas of the City. 3. The CRA Board needs to be separate from the City Commission and should have a director. T~ A08Fftsho"Idj:>e an advisory hnar(t'whcfsc members are-appointod by thA CommissioA ~nd include City Cemmissionors 3fld eitizel"tS. Tl"te-6ity-Gommi-ssion--slwutd havt::uthe fingl S8)'lr~ ~ ..,," \L, ~ 4. Create a pedestrian-friendly environment downt~~, park benches, and pavers. RA 5. Evaluate the existing zoning code requirements to see ~ the development of the downtown. Keep the codes flexible. 6. A streamlined, one-stop permitting process for the community redevelopment area to encourage development. Incorporate the beach into the Marina/downtown district. Parking would be downtown with a trolley or shuttle bus to the beach. Have specific codes for the marina area to promote a nautical image. These codes should include facade programs. Existing businesses should be involved in discussions about improvements in the downtown. 7. Keep the marina accessible to the public and appealing to a variety of income groups. 8. Eliminate parking requirements for the downtown area and use innovative parking strategies. Consider a joint public/private parking strategy for the downtown. 7 9. Increase the amount of mixed use development, particularly by adding higher-density residential~like Mizner Park.'c 10. Focus on creating a night life for the downtown by establishing a theme and adding: a. A movie theatre b. Outdoor cafes c. Small shops (open in the evening) d. Restaurants 11. Use tax incentives, tax increment financing, and other financial incentives or loan programs to encourage investment downtown. 12. Acquire and assemble smaller parcels into larger lots in the downtown area. 13. Expand the CRA district along Federal Highway to the northern city boundaries. 14. Examine traffic issues, especially to slow traffic down on certain routes (e.g., Seacrest). Also, consider redirection of traffic in the downtown area, including one-way streets and reconnecting roads to provide direct corridors to the downtown. For example, reconfigure Seacrest, Boynton Beach Boulevard, and Ocean Avenue to create a slow loop through the downtown to the marina. Landscaping could be used to identify this loop as a scenic route. Better signage is needed to direct traffic to downtown. 15. Increase the amount of leisure activity downtown, not just shopping. t~. B. There are many commercial areas in Boynton Beach in need of revitalization, but the City's land use regulations often discourage commercial redevelopment efforts. Regulations should allow growth to occur and assist businesses by providing adequate flexibility. Zoning codes should be revised to promote compatibility rather than be restrictive. Mixed-use development should be encouraged. Phased-in code requirements might be a fairer way to bring older properties up to present day 8 standards. Sign and landscape codes may be used to ensure a more attractive environment. The infrastructure is in place, but economic development is needed. A general obligation bond is one possible method of funding redevelopment. The potential for establishing an historic district should also be considered. Specific commercial revitalization efforts should include: 1. Martin Luther King, Jr., Blvd. corridor from Seacrest going east. The City must assist the community in developing this area. Money should be invested to assist this area, and make it more desirable for businesses. Entrepreneurs should be sought out to invest in this area. 2. US Highway 1 from the Delray Beach city limit to the Hypoluxo city limit. Near the K-mart, change department store retail use to allow a water- oriented attraction with public access to the Intracoastal. A special community redevelopment district should be established jointly with Delray Beach to revitalize US 1. 3. Boynton Beach Blvd. from US Highway 1 to 1-95. This area needs larger lots to accommodate larger buildings. ThE) cqrnmercial area could be expandec(two blocks lin either direction to increasNo),~/ Signage in this area needs improv~ment. 1 4. Ocean Avenue corridor from the marina to Seacrest. 5. The marina. This area should be proactively developed, because it is an essential feature of Boynton Beach and can provide economic spin-offs to other areas. 6. Golf (23rd) Road between US 1 and Seacrest. 7. Railroad property east of FEC track between Boynton Beach Boulevard and Ocean Avenue. C. Prospective businesses should be encouraged to locate within existing buildings or on vacant properties. To accomplish this, the City should revisit its land development regulations and adjust them to promote revitalization by allowing increased flexibility. 9 The City should be more aware of and responsive to business expectations and be willing to look at each situation individually. Some downtown properties are small and may require special variances to City regulations. The cost of bringing old buildings up to existing codes is often prohibitive to restoration. The City should search for creative solutions to these problems that make infill development difficult. Other ways to encourage commercial infill development include: 1. Giving incentives to businesses to develop in the community redevelopment area. 2. Giving tax abatements to developments that fulfill certain criteria, such as commercial development of vacant land. 3. Allowing mixed-use development (commercial and residential) of vacant land. 4. Providing or allow for the use of some vacant parcels as playgrounds or parks. D. In general, the City's infrastructure is sufficient to support current and near future commercial revitalization. The following potential sources of funds were identified for future infrastructure needs: 1. Evaluating user fees and adjusting them appropriately. 2. Lobbying the state to restructure the homestead exemption/to include a _ ~ ~ ~ waiting period before new residents qualify for the exemption. This waiting period would enable the City to collect taxes on the first $25,000 of assessed value during this time. ) 3. Issuing a 20-year ~neral obligation (GO) bond to fund specific infrastructure and other improvements. Educating the citizens to support this bond issue. Including funding for capital facilities/projects, including but not limited to: a. Sidewalks in neighborhoods to make them more pedestrian-friendly; b. Street lights to increase neighborhood safety; c. Underground utilities. 10 4. Investigating the stormwater management funding mechanism. Considering raising the amounts paid by residential users. 5. Examining adding special assessment districts to use in targeting areas for particular needs, as requested by citizens. ~, Limiting the current ten-year tax abatement program to five year:) ~ 11 III. Economic Development A. The comprehensive plan and current land use mix should be amended as needed to accomplish the following: 1. Designate specific areas where mixed-use development and infill development are to be encouraged. 2. Strike a balance between the amount of affordable rental housing and high- end housing. 3. Increase flexibility in the zoning codes to allow for the reconfiguration of properties to meet current and future demand. The City should acquire vacant properties to reassemble into larger parcels to encourage the development of PUDs and high-end housing east of 1-95. 4. Improve compatibility with neighboring cities' ccer2prehensive~. r 5. Develop a parking strategy for the Community ~elopment ~t. B. The City, private business and industry, and the community-at-Iarge can work together to facilitate economic development and to assure that the development will accommodate growth in a manner consistent with the City's vision for the future. To accomplish this, the City needs to: 1. Act as an aggressive leader in seeking desired economic growth and develop a proactive strategy to recruit new businesses (especially anchor businesses) to these commercial areas. One element of this strategy includes working with existing businesses and the Chamber of Commerce. The City can also act as an intermediary in negotiations to acquire land and assemble parcels. 2. Offer incentives to encourage the type of development desired in designated commercial and residential areas. 3. Work with the Palm Beach County School Board to maintain a workforce with appropriate skills. 12 4. Encourage development of "higher end" housing east of 1-95 by assembling large parcels in PUDs. This housing will expand the tax base, encourage economic development, and attract CEOs to live in the community. 5. Develop a marina district along the Intracoastal with marina slips, restaurants, and housing. Along the same lines, encourage public/private commercial ventures in public facilities, such as picnic concessions in parks along the water. Consider building a drawbridge over the inlet to allow big boats access. 6. Use signage to direct traffic to the marinalfishing/diving districts. Work with hotels to market this area as a recreational destination. Promote the reef as an amenity to attract business and tourist traffic. 7. Increase the number of hotel/motel beds and combine with a mini-conference center. 8. Develop effective promotional (marketing) strategies for the commercial areas. C. To recruit new businesses, retain existing businesses, and ensure that opportunities are provided for minority businesses to participate in future economic development efforts, the City can: 1. Expand current marketing of the community, especially its amenities. Develop promotional materials, such as videotapes, designed to sell Boynton Beach to prospective businesses. One marketing technique is to make the City attractive to CEOs, so they will live in the City and locate their businesses here. 2. Assist in meeting the needs of small- and medium-sized businesses. 3. Conduct a survey of existing businesses to determine their plans and the level of their satisfaction with the City's business climate. 4. Perform a statistical analysis of the City's labor force to help match skills with needs. 13 'F ., ~ Fund an economic development coordinator position jointly with the Chamber D', of Commerce. ~consider using a third party (not a City employee) to mediate conflicts between businesses and the City. 7. Advertise South Tech more effectively to let businesses know that the curriculum is flexible and can be modified to meet the needs of businesses. 8. Create a proactive business advisory board to aide businesses in growing well. Such a board can tap retired business executives (e.g., SCORE) and others, using their expertise to advise and train owners of new businesses. 9. Provide financial incentives to all qualified businesses. 10. Establish business incubator programs. 11. In any business plan drawn up by the City, include commercial areas along Martin Luther King, Jr., Boulevard. Recruit new businesses to this area through the use of business incentive packages, which may include tax abatements and/or fee waivers. 12. Encourage new businesses/retention of existing businesses throughout commercial areas. Stress cross-cultural, rather than geographical, location patterns. Consult with minority businesses in the area to determine how to attract more minority businesses. D. The City should develop a pro-business attitude and be proactive in attracting new businesses, both large and small. It should also make sure that the needs of existing businesses are being met. The City should accommodate businesses when they want to expand. Business incentive packages should also be created for minority businesses. Specific incentive packages should be designed according to the needs of different areas. Incentives that could be used to attract and maintain businesses include tax abatements, industrial revenue bonds, and temporary conditional uses. 14 E. The City's annexation boundaries should be expanded to the conservation area. The current development approval process is not flexible enough to attract future development. The City Commission and other boards also need to be more flexible in their attitude towards development. The City must streamline its permitting processes to accommodate economic development and might study other cities considered "user- friendly" by the business community and apply their techniques to Boynton Beach. A task force could be set up to review the development codes. 15 IV. Neighborhood Revitalization A. Some neighborhoods within Boynton Beach are deteriorating and in need of revitalization. The City and its residents can take action in the areas of beautification programs; enhanced appearance codes, building codes, zoning code, and housing standards and enforcement; neighborhood master planning activities; and the role of civic/neighborhood associations and others to improve the quality of life in city neighborhoods. The following actions and methods of implementation have been suggested to improve the quality of life: 1. Create effective neighborhood associations as the framework for improving neighborhoods. Associations might: a. Work with residents and property owners to achieve adequate levels of maintenance and cleanliness of their property. This would be done before the City begins code enforcement efforts. b. Organize cleanups of neighborhoods, especially those where there are many rental units and trash becomes an eyesore. c. Implement recognition programs for those homeowners who demonstrate pride of ownership by maintaining their property and setting a good example for others. d. Consider appointing a "block captain" who will gather information about neighborhood needs. The key is communication among neighborhood residents and city service providers. Filling the position of neighborhood specialist is critical. e. Promote "adopt-a-tree" programs. 2. Enhance landscaping on public property. 3. The City should implement a program to eradicate invasive nonnative species (e.g., Brazilian pepper, Maleleuca, and Australian pine) and provide assistance to homeowners with replacement of exotic species. 16 4. Consider setting up dual water delivery systems to make use of reclaimed water. This may be done with assistance from the South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD). 5. The City should expand the use of volunteers to help paint houses. 6. To address the serious problem of rental property that is not properly maintained: a. Use community service hours to clean up/improve code violations. b. Expand the work done by the Boynton Beach Community Development Corporation (CDC) and the City Community Relations Board to support tenant associations. 7. Promote the availability of permitting guidelines. Also, utility bills may be used to notify recipients of changes in the guidelines. 8. Ensure timely response when code enforcement representatives are called. The City should enforce codes equitablY.ANo (GC~o,Jfr&\/ (kcO(o~/2ING J) IFfc(L{;.Ai-cS /.J At;( c...H'PJQ.~TC-lZ. ~.'/l..f. AIJ) l>e-tvtOG.~rllC-S k-rc.\ f) 9. Target areas bf tt'le City for subdivision or neighborhood parties organized by the City. Residents would be encouraged to attend, thereby creating an opportunity for bonds to form between neighborhood residents. 10. Retrofit mailboxes in groups of four to eight rather than individual boxes to enable neighbors to meet and to facilitate mail delivery. 11. The City should consider acquiring and building pocket parks for children. 12. Use entry signs and landscaping of entrances to identify neighborhoods. This could be performed and funded by neighborhood associations / (Ii, Designate as "historic" the older neighborhoods east of 1-95. tZ . 14. The City needs to address zoning issues along Seacrest to promote mixed use to allow offices and residential development. The City should plan for this conversion by addressing parking regulations and other issues affecting the character of these neighborhoods. 17 15. Alternative funding sources to revitalizing neighborhoods may include foreclosures, home seizures, forfeiture funds. Designate a city member to seek grant funds. 16. Use citizen patrol programs funded by the City and staffed by neighborhood residents in addition to police substations. 17. Inventory and evaluate neighborhoods to target those in need of rehabi I itation. ~<G. ~. B. The 6~y lacks an adequate amount of housing to meet the current and future needs of Boynton Beach residents. There is an overall need for a broad mix of housing types within the City. Some of the most pressing needs are: 1. Rejuvenating older neighborhoods by assisting with rehabilitation and encouraging infil!. 2. Providing on-site management for rental housing; 3. Increasing the amount of high-end housing within the city limits, especially along the Intracoastal and east of 1-95; 4. Supplying more very low-, low- and moderate-income housing. The City's comprehensive plan affords a good opportunity to address these shortages. The City should: 1. Encourage homeownership by assisting low-income residents with the purchase of homes. 2. Provide creative financing opportunities for infill housing compatible with existing neighborhoods. 3. Identify potential funding sources for housing subsidy programs. 4. Inventory the availability of homes and lots within the City to see if it is adequate to serve the needs of current and future residents. 5. Establish a partnership with the Neighborhood Housing Services Association. 18 6. Identify areas for upscale housing and upscale multi-family housing, and devise a strategy for encouraging this type of development. ! ~~,~~~ ~~~~ a)'-Convert some large yacant commercial lots along US 1 tcr esidential and conduct a ~ket study to establish densities. 8. Use land acquisition and lot reassemblage along US 1 and the Intracoastal to provide lots for larger homes. C. The City should take an active role in promoting the acquisition and rehabilitation of substandard housing. The City should take the following actions to stimulate neighborhood revitalization: 1 { BUYl>IOCkS of substandard houses for improvement and resale. ~ " "'i~:/-'2\ Bu~roperty to sell to developers while maintaining control of development l~~~----~ standards. 3. Review existing land development regulations and revise them to allow more flexibility for uses such as mother-in-law cottages. 4. Nurture more diverse input into neighborhood revitalization strategies by incorporating ethnic groups into the process. 5. Inventory vacant houses and track the progress of these targeted properties. 6. Address the absentee landlord problem by holding property owners responsible for the condition of their property. D. The following measures can be taken to ensure that public housing agencies manage housing projects in the most effective and efficient manner: 1. Enforce codes. 2. Standards should be set, with appropriate time frames, for basic maintenance. Pressure should be put on management to maintain properties. 19 Routine inspections should be instituted. On-site management should be required for large developments, such as those with more than 50 units. 3. Tenant associations should be organized and empowered. 4. Boynton Beach residents need to express concern about the quality of public housing and put pressure on elected officials to do something about it. 5. The Boynton Housing Authority should be reinstituted. 6. Public housing should be scattered throughout the City, into different socioeconomic areas. 7. The City will establish additional standards for property quality and upgrades for Section 8 housing. 20 V. Public Safety/Crime Prevention A. Relations between the city police department and city residents need to be strengthened: 1. City residents and police need to change the negative mindset of youth, especially the youths' negative perception of the police. The police need to work closely with recreation and parks staff to facilitate youth programs. 2. Implement a process for truants. 3. The police department should have communication/sensitivity training to learn how to deal with Boynton's diverse population and their perceptions of the police. Language barriers between police and ethnic groups need to be addressed. There is also a perception that there is a lack of sensitivity by some officers to members of the black community. 4. There needs to be mutual trust between the police and residents. 5. Expand the citizen patrol academy to accommodate greater numbers and to int~~~~~~~f ~af~:~ ~sues into the program. 6. '~~7nVYmunity policing program. 7. Establish on-going communication with neighborhoods, such as a newsletter mailed in the water bill. 8. Encourage police participation at regularly scheduled neighborhood association meetings. 9. Increase police visibility at the mall and other strategic locations. B. The problems of crime cannot be solved by law enforcement and government alone. The community, businesses, neighborhoods, and religious and other 21 organizations must also be involved in crime prevention. The City can promote increased public participation in crime reduction through: 1. Expanding programs such as Crime Watch and Citizen Observer Patrol (COP). 2. Increasing the number of police substations in neighborhoods. 3. Promoting neighborhood safehouses. 4. Encouraging communities to acknowledge officers who are making a difference (Le., officer of the month programs). 5. Encouraging communities to include officers in neighborhood activities and association meetings. 6. Promoting joint neighborhood association meetings to disseminate public safety information. 7. Developing and promoting mentor programs for kids to help with their education and with crime prevention awareness. The City should tap into its vast resource of retired people and business leaders to volunteer for these programs. C. Neighborhood/community policing is viewed as having a positive effect on reducing crime. It also helps develop a positive relationship between citizens and police. The following techniques and practices should be implemented and/or enhanced for more effective crime prevention: 1. Expand the bike patrol program and purchase more bicycles. 2. Initiate the "Kids & Cops" mentor program. 3. Locate organizations in addition to the Private Industry Council to provide summer jobs for youth. 4. Establish a cooperative effort between utility company representatives, postal workers, city employees, and others to work with police and citizens to identify and report crime and other social problems. 22 5. Consider establishing mini-police stations (substations) close to Martin Luther King, Jr., Boulevard and other areas. The permanent presence of police in these areas could be important. D. The following programs should be established and/or enhanced so that youth, adults, senior citizens, and visitors can be better informed about crime and its prevention: 1. Reestablish police-community forums targeted at different age and ethnic groups to help change their negative perceptions of the police. 2. Support and publicize the CAT (Combat Auto Theft), and neighborhood watch programs. 3. Publicize the opportunities for volunteers to help through a talent bank. The current VIP (Volunteers are Important) program could be expanded. 4. Continue the Wrice March process. 5. Implement Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) techniques in planning and design of neighborhoods. 6. Proactively address the gang problem/demonstrate zero tolerance. E. Loss of life or permanent damage to property should never result because of inadequate fire/rescue response time. The City should develop a r~naUire/rescu~ .,-- approach of shared facilities with the county rather than building a new city facility. A shared fire/rescue capital improvement program should be developed to address the needs of the CitYe ~ighbOring cities, and the County. T ~y should also maintain and expand its fire/rescue programs that work with kids. ~ 23 VI. City Government /'" f2/ A. Citizens perceive city government as overly bureaucratic and inflexible. Commissioners and citizens must establish and maintain trust. While it is not possible to please everyone, the following actions will enable the City to promote and market its user-friendly aspects and other strengths: 1. Educate citizens as to what city staff do and what the city's procedures are. 2. Train city employees to be more customer-service oriented. Implement an employee recognition program and incentive package. Have employees wear nametags. ~ 3. Empower employees and management so they can identify problems and U \, address situations without the concern about being penalized. \ @) Determine staffing levels in the building and zoning department to coincide with revenue generated by development. 5. Continue town meetings for education of citizens. Hold them in different areas of the City. 6. Hold/continue to hold informal workshops that are topic specific prior to City Commission meetings. 7. Conduct a survey of citizen satisfaction with city services. 8. Continue awareness of ethnic diversity in the City through hiring practices and training of city staff. The City should consider creating information brochures in other languages. 9. Use trained volunteers in city departments. 10. Implement a Total Quality Management (TQM) system. ii, ~~ l~~' B. There is a great diversity of opinion about whether the current structure of the City Commission is suitable for guiding the City in the future. The following changes are recommended: 24 c-vw",:.?~.;;l--"--~.- 1. Increase the sala~ for Commissioners. 2. Support a ballot measure on term limits, such as two 3-year terms for all Commissioners. (/- ) ~/ C. The City's advisory boards and commissions should be evaluated to ensure adequate representation and effectiveness. Presently, many board positions tend to be given as political favors. Commissioners should not overlook qualifications as part of the board member selection process. Committee members should follow the board qualifications. Other actions that can improve board and commission effectiveness would be to: 1. Determine the appropriate level of staffing needed. 2. Consider combining boards to prevent duplication (Le., reduce quantity, increase quality). 3. Sunset inappropriate boards. 4. Empower board members and have them assist in city government on a volunteer basis. 5. Align each advisory board with a related department to increase interaction and access to a budget. 6. Involve boards in the budget process so that boards can make recommendations on which programs are funded. The Commission should maintain final budgetary decisions. \ 0~rete\a staff liaison to facilitate the relationship between boards and the Commission and express board views to the Commission. 8. Review residency requirements for board members and open city board positions to business owners, with caveats that residents hold the majority of ~ ,,- l\ seats. . ~ . ~) Recruit peers4giy:~~iif(a, unity leaders to serve on appropriate boards. 25 10. Give first consideration to alternate board members when new board members are appointed. 11. Encourage more citizen attendance and input at board meetings. 12. Maintain a list of board vacancies that is easily accessible to citizens, especially community organizations. D. Public awareness and involvement are necessary for dealing with community problems: 1. Establish a communication network made up of key community representatives (100-200 people) who can disseminate updated information to citizens on a quarterly basis and service information to provide meaningful support for decision-making process. 2. Improve lines of communication between the City and residents. The City needs to market advisory board meetings and explain what they do. Bring in speakers to advisory board meetings and advertise these speakers to the public. E. Communication linkages between the City and the community could be improved. The following is a list of suggestions to improve interaction between the City and the community: 1. Develop more consistent representation at the county and state level to look out for city interests. 2. Televise city commission meetings on cable. 3. Encourage the City to utilize the Internet and city e-mail addresses for assistance. 4. Expand utilization of Funfair magazine. 5. Encourage neighborhood associations to disseminate information to city residents. 26 6. Strengthen lines of communication between private organizations, such as COWBRA and other neighborhood groups, and public entities, such as the City, the County, and the School Board. 7. Neighborhood associations should invite commissioners to their meetings. 8. Reinstate "Unity Day." 9. Encourage participation in multicultural events for all communities. 10. Promote an International Festival. 27 VII. EducationNouth Involvement A. The City should pursue the following alternative ways to accelerate construction of the Boynton Beach High School: 1. Negotiate with the School Board to encourage them to commit to an earlier date for completion of the high school. Try to get money for a stadium included in the funding for the high school. This is the only school promised for 1986 that is not yet on line. (Another suggestion is to sue the School Board for nonperformance ). 2. Consider using a city general obligation bond to fund the high school at ~ Quantum Park with repayment by the School Board. G) ~"\ CJ Advocate adoption of the co~urr~ncy component currently under 0\ consideration by Palm Beach County. @consider a special assessment district for education in Boynton Beach. 5. Explore lobbying to obtain lottery funds for construction of city schools or other capital improvements and enhancements. 6. Evaluate the feasibility of a charter school in Boynton Beach. 7. Pursue the concept of commu~~ols. 8. Demand a full accountin~ow, where, and when education money will be spent. 9. Support new and renewable revenue sources for operation of schools. In general, support new funding for infrastructure, including schools. 10. Both City staff and citizens need to be visible and vocal at all School Board meetings to make a strong statement regarding Boynton Beach's need for money. 28 B. Proactive support for high quality public education needs to come from all factions of the community, especially parents, the business community, and civic and neighborhood organizations. Involvement of these groups can be improved by the following actions: 1. The business community and civic and neighborhood organizations should become more involved in mentoring programs and other programs that can help children develop. 2. The business community and retirees can volunteer to speak to classrooms on relevant issues. 3. Businesses should permit employees to leave work to attend school functions. This would set a good example for the City to provide their employees who are parents with paid time off to visit their children's schools. 4. The City should be represented at School Board meetings. 5. The City should lobby the School Board to keep and improve summer school. 6. Citizens need to increase involvement with the School Advisory Committee. 7. Parents need to recognize that they are integral in forming the moral fabric of society. 8. Parents and the community should better utilize schools. The community should be able to access schools for recreational activities and summer camps. C. Several actions should be taken to encourage youth to become more active in the community: 1. Survey young people to determine how they would like to become more involved in the community. 2. Employ young people in the City to give them a sense of community and pride. 29 The community should also enhance the number and type of activities available for young people. A number of approaches can be taken to improve this situation: 1. Provide youth activities rather than resorting to curfews or additional rules. 2. Utilize Youth Advisory Boards to design youth-oriented activities. 3. Use school facilities for recreational activities. D. Opportunities for providing more afterschool activities for youth should be explored by the City, School Board, businesses, and community organizations. The following types of p~e needed and sources of funding for them are suggested: 1. camps -- develop this reputation and build on it. 2. Summer youth programs. 3. Expansion of latchkey programs. 4. A library-based homework hotline and homework laboratory (a tutorial center). 5. Collaborative opportunities with Big Brother-Big Sister, YMCA, and other organizations. 6. A Youth Council. 7. A youth volunteer corps -- city-run and implemented. 8. A Youth Leadership Program. Additional funding will be needed to create new programs or enhance existing ones. Some potential funding sources include: 1. Hire a grant writer to aggressively pursue alternative funds for youth activities. 2. Clubs and other service organizations should be invited to provide scholarships to fund band instruments, athletic gear, fees, dues, and similiar items that students cannot afford. 30 E. The following resources might be used to provide financial assistance to families who have difficulty paying registration fees and dues so that their children can participate in clubs, sports, or other activities: 1. Fees should be evaluated to see if there is a need for financial assistance. 2. The City could help coordinate sponsorship opportunities, even though it is not appropriate for the City to give financial aid. The City's grant writer could also assist in this endeavor. 3. Registration for summer camps should be based on income. . Establish an ad hoc committee to oversee the implementation of the Boynton Beach Vision 20/20 Policy Statement. 31 ~; _.J.2 -::;~77;,\~~:== :-;0. ~ ~ l AN ORJ:~:A~;CE OF THE: CITY or BOYNTON 5E^CH. FLORIDA APPOINTING THE HE~!ERS OF THE CITY'S CO:1MU~ I7Y RE!)EVF:LO?:-1E~T ACEm:y IN ACCOR-SANCE 1..J!1'H Fl.ORIDA STATUTE 5163.356. E~L~ERATI~G TP.E:IR TERM~ OF OFFICE; APPOINTING A CHAIRl1AN. AND 'J!CE-CHAIR.'-!.AN; PROVIDING A RE?:,U::;C CUUSE; SAVINGS CLAUSE; Ali ".F:'ECTIVC DATE AND FOR O"i'HER PURPOS~S IN ACCORDANCE WITH FLORIDA STAT1..iTE 3163.356 ~ WHEREAS, by Reso1~:ion, a Community Redevelopmenc Agency 1 has been created in the City of Boyneon Beach, Florida, in accorJance with Florida Statute 5163.356. 1 I \ffiEREAS, Florida Statute 5163.356 requires that the City Council by Ordin~nce ~ppoint the members of said Community Redevelop~ent Agency. J 1 NO~, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF TilE CITY OF BOYNTON BEACH, FLORIDA: -J Section 1. The Following ~embers are appointed to the Board of Commissioners of the Community Redeve10p~ent Agency as follo\ls: I H. Dale Hatc~ For a Period of 1 Year L. ~on Combs For a. .period of 2 Years 00:';.1 ld 1'lcl<or.e For a Period of 3 Years Sci:r.l.:el :icheiner For a Period of 4 Years Hl:!nry ":lanl<." Tnon....son For a Period of 4 Years All 01. the above terms will be effective as of ehe date of the last oippointl:lent. All appointments after the firs t , as identified ~bove, will be for a period of fout' (4) years. J ] J Section 2. Henry "Hank" Tholllps~n is hereby designated as Chairman for a period of one (1) yeat' and J Sa~~el .Sc::dner, is hereby J designated as Vice Chairman for a ?eriod of one (1) year. Section 3. All ordinances or parts of ordin3nc:es in conflict herewith be and ehe same are hereby repealed. Seceion 4. Should any section or provision of this ordinance or any poreion thercof, any ?araBraph. sentence or word be declared by a court of compecene jurisdiction to be inv~lid. ~uch decision s~all not affect the validity of the J J \ ~ ~_.a re:-a\.:'1cer hereof as a ',,':-..Jle or rar: thereof other ch.1n the part declared to be invalid. Section S. This Ordi~ance shall become effective i~~ediately upon its passage aC second reading. L!fi - day of ._ ~I ,1982. FIRS": R!::ADI:;C this SECOSD, FINAL REAOI~G and PASSAGE chis day of 7;77 ,1982. ;2?[~4-?/7~ / ce_ayor ~ " ATTEST: 4v~J 41/tI ~CierK Cor? Seal H-2 I I . . - se~:or dlst~Vcstmc~: eVld~~ce by a high deyree of v~CJncics ~nd c=-~cr=lal scructures or undcvelopcd land. Section 2. The City Council ceter~ines that it will, at a subsequent meeting of the City Council, appoint five (5) members to the Boynton Beach Redevelopment ^gency for stagg~red terms, to have those pc....crs enumerated in Florida Statute 163. J7C to be further defined in a subsequent resolution. PASSED AND ADO?T!O this ~~ day of August, 1981. A'I"I'!ST: ..!lvE /~ )=ouncJ.1' Mcmbe(' V Council Momber (Cor? Soal) ~ ~ 4 -- .i.. . ~. ~~c . ,--/"1 '/'" . - t:. ^' .....-:=:::......- \.' " I 4Ii A R~5C~~~:C~ or 7HE CITY Of BOY~TON SE:AGi :::C:'';?:~;G C::?TAIN AR~AS AS 8LIGHTED A SL~ .';:\.::A AS DErri~ED IN CHAPTER 163. PART :::::. fLORI!:;'; STATUTES; DECURWC A NEED fiJ? :lE:-!';8IL!TATlO~1 Of SUCH ARF.AS; F!~DI :;~ A NE:::D FOR. A CO:'~:HTY REDEVELOPMENT AGE~;C':, ,,:;J C?,::A7I::G SA[D co~u:aTY RE- OEVl::LOF:~::~;7 ACC::-;CY; PROVIDING FOR AN Err::C::-:'::: ::;"7:: A:;J FOR OTHER Pl.:?POSES I ',.J;ii::REAS, che C:cy Ccunc~l of the City of Boynton Beach, I florida. hereby finds chat one or ~ore slum and blighted areas I as defined in Florida Statute 163.340 and exist in the City of Boynton Beach. \~:EREAS, a need for rehabilitation conservation or I I recevelop~ent or a co~b~nation chereof is necessary in such areas in the interest 0: ?ublic health safety morals or ~elfare of the resident~ of Boynton Beach; and , \mEREAS, the City Council of the City of Boynton Beach finds it is necessary to create a Community Redevelopmene Agency as a public body as provided in Florida Statute, Chapter 163. Part II!, Section 163.356; and w~EREAS. the City Council of the City of Boyneon Beach I find it necessary co appcint a five member Co~unity I Redevelopment Agency Board; and \.~EREAS, the Mayor and City Council of the Ciey of I Boynton Beach finds it necessary to designate a CommuniCY Development Project, I NO~"', 'I'HER.CfORE, BE I't RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BOYNTON BEACH 7HA't: I Section 1. One or ~re slum and blighted areas exist in the City of Boynton Beach. .. Section 2. The re~bilitacion, conservation and r~development or a combina:ion thereof of such area or areas is necessary in the interest of public health safety morals and welfare of the residents of such County and Municipality. Sec:ion 3. The City of 80ynton 6c~ch Co~~unity Redevelopment Agency is hereby established as outlined ~n rlorid~ St~cutcs, Chapcer 153. Part III, Section 163.356 for the ?u=?ose of carrying out redevelopment ~ctivities for che area(~) i.n Soynccn Beach. I I I ~ I ,. - --- . Sect ton 4. The Boynton Beach Community Redevelop~e~: Agency wtll function lmder the po~ers outlined in Florida Statute, Cha?ter 163, Part Ill. ~on 5. The Ctty Council designates as a Co~~nity Redevelopment Area a section of the City generally Ero~ SE 6th Avenue to NE 6th Avenue between the FEe Railro~d, ~E Jrc Street, the Intracoastal, SE 6th Street, SE 2nd Avenue and Federal Highway, more specifically described in Appendix A and pictured in Appendix S. Section 6. It is further resolved that the area descri~ed above has: A. A street layout that is predominately defective and inadequate. B. A lot layout that is faulty in relation to size, adequacy, accessibility and usefulness. C. An area that suffers from unsafe and unsanitary conditions. O. An area that, to a significant degree, has deterioration of site and other improvements. E. An area that has diversity of ownership which prevents the free alienability of land. F. An area in which there exists faulty and inadequate street, parking facilities, roadways and bridges. Section 7. Ie is further resolved that the powers of the Community Redevelopment Agency shall be exercised in accordance with provisions of Florida Statute, Chapter 163, Part tl1. -2- H-6 ~ I Section 8. This ~csolution shall beco~e effeccive ir.-.":1ediately U.pon adopti:1g. I PASS:::; AND ACe?:::;:), this ~ ,,- day of /)!Iu'l- (; 1982. I ~ I I I I I I I CITY OF BOYNTON BEACH, FLORIDA BY~~~ tlayor ( "'" ~?t''?u~ ye Mayor AT7ES7 .,q~) .:tf~ cft~""L.. erK/~ Corp. Sea! I I I I I I I I -)- ,w - -- 1..1'" QI"C'\O~~Oft ~he ~rc~ included within the tollowinq describwd bound~ries; Co,,,,.ence ~t the inurset:tion ot l.he centerline ot SE 2nd ~venue ~nd the eAst rJ9ht-of-way lino ot the rlorida E~st Co~~t R&ilroAd (rtCRR); thence easterly Alonq said t:cnl.erline ot SC 2nd ~venue to the centec1ine of US 11 thence northerly 130 t teet to the conter1ine.of SE 2nd Avenue extended: thence easterly alon9 said conterline ot SE 2nd Avenue extended to the ~ntersection of the conterline of SE 6th Street; thence northerly a10nq s.i4 cento~line of SE 6th Sl.reet to the centerline of Ocoan Avenue (S.R.a04): thence eesterly alonq lai4 centerline ot Ocean Avenu. to the intersection w~th the west r1qht-ot-way line ot the Intr&coastal Waterway: thence northerly a10nq said westerly riqhe-of-vay line of the Intracoastal Waterway to the northoast c~rner of Lot 10, Oewey's Subdivision a. recorde4 in 'lat look 1. .aqe 37, Official Records ot 'a1. aeach CountYl thence westerly alon9 the north line ot said LGt 20 and the north line ot Lots 21. 22 and 23 to the northwest corner ot $&id Lot 23: thence northerly alonq the easterly line of R.~. Herrits Subdivision a. recorded in ,lat look 1. 'age 'I. otriclA~ Records ot Palm leach County to the north line of I&id Subdivlslon; thence "ester1y .&lonq s;aid north line of R. S. "'errits Subdivision extended to the inter.ection with the ccnterline ot 0.5.1: thence continue westerly alonq the north line ot Slocks ) and 4 o~ Rob.~ts addition as reca~ded in Pl~t look 1. P~qe ~1. Offielal Reco~ds of Pal~ leach County e.tended to the c~se riqht-ot-~ay line of the rToCRR; thence southerly alonq t.he e.st ~iqht-of-way line of said FtC~K to the pOInt of b.~Jnnin9. 'lu. the a~ea bord.~ed on the no~~h by Nt 3rd Avenu.' the ea.~ by the Florid. tast Coast R.il Road <rtCRR): the south by SE 2nd Avenue: tho west by NtlSE led Street. 'lu. the ac.. bordered on the north by se 2nd Avenue, the ease by US '1; the south by Ie ItA Avenue, the west by the n:c:IUL. 'lus lot. 1. 2 and 3 ot 110ek 2, Civic CQnte~ Subdivision .. recorded in ,lat lOOk 12, 'aqe 'a.Official Reco~d. ot 'a1~ I.ach County and IlockS 1 and 2 of RObert Addition to Town of loynton Sybd~v~Slon a. reeocde4 in 'lat look 1. 'age Sl. OffiCIal Records of ,.1m .each County. H-8 ~Jt' " Boynton Beach C OIt1IJi unify Redeve/oplnent Plan November 1 983 Ordinance #84-32 August 21, 1984 ~ Boynton Beach .;:ommunity Redevelopment Agency Chairman Hank Thompson Vice Chairman Sam Sche:ner Dale Hatch Capt. Donald McKone Don Coml:>s Consultants Urban Design Studio Project Coordination/Urban P!a,"ning Regional Research Associates Economic Analysis Kenneth Hirsch Assc, Inc. Architecture/Urban D(Hdgn Howard Searcy. P.E. Environmental Engineering Michael B. Schorah & Associates Civil Engineering Ken Rogers. P.E. Traffic Analysis Charfes W. DeSanti Community. Redevelopment . "" ...._' ,.>,.r ~.ft"~~""/A" ." T~ ., ,;.-;<r" F-6 Boynton C.~ LR '. . . ~ \ j\ I r., ilHR · ._._._._._.... I i..r-- ,. . t .,a ... -, \ '" . . .. . l 't - . . o 1 s .. .. Future Land Use Outside of Downtown Center Boynton Beach Community Redeve\opment Area . , ,It, .. VI." ...... ..... ~ ,..---- ..... ......1- .. ........ ........ ...... 4 t.__ ..... .... ....... ..... ...... ~ ........-. .......... ....... .. ....... . ...... . c... ........ ......-. c......... c.. . "...... .......... ... ..... '"" ....... ....-....--. 't "'\A.' -r- o ,..... Exhibit F-2 c:_t:. KEY Ll Light Industrial GC General Commercic LR Local Retail HR Residential High density MR Residential Moderate density REC Recreation cao Downtown Center (Central 6usiness Oistrict) .........~ ........,.. .:......... .. ......... .:.:.:.:.:. .' Areas with use cnang~ EEJ D 0/8 OfficE. ..is M,Xed USE MIx. \.. JII": \ \ .... \10. -f I, The Office/Business area encompasses the 2 primary Jffice buildings already in the dO\ot'nto....n, the First Financial Cent~r and the Florida Coast Bank. Opportunities should develop for another office stru<ture and/or a parking garage to be built. both cen- trally located in the Downtown Center, The Local Retai l/Business sector should flourish as spin-off gro....th complementary to the major waterfront development. The Residential and Institutional areas at the northern extreme of the Downto....n Center reflect uses likely to remain and expand in their existing locations including St. Marks Church and SChool. LAND USE STRATEGY FOR THE OO~NTO~N CENTER Redevelopment in the Downtown Center should encourage land uses that maintain and improve accessibility to the waterfront and avoid "walling offll waterfront views or access. Activities that are on or in closest proximity to the ....ater should principally be eating and drinking establ ishments, pedestrian oriented specialty retail shops, marina uses, recreational uses, and public uses. Ideally a hotel facility and a high density residential project should be located to provide waterfront views. The Land Use Classifications in Exhibit F-3 were allocated based on an over-all Market Strategy for land uses that applies to that portion of the Downtown Center that 1 ies east of U.S. 1, south of the northern CRA boundary, and north of or fronting on East Ocean Avenue. F-10 The uses listed belolot' apply to this area and are broken down more specifically than the use-elements in the Land ~;~ ClassificationSI (a) High density residential. (b) Public uses SUCh as center. etc... an auditorium. bandshell. communit{ ( c ) A major tourist lodging facility district's indigenous market as ~el 1 In the regional tourist industry. to help enhance the as the city's position (d) Marina and recreational uses. ( e) Retail trade activities should be limited to high goods and stores ~hich can create pedestrian traffic. Include but are not limited to. volume These Eating and drinking, including outdoor dining Apparel and accessories Drugstores Jewelry, leather, antiques and art Sporting goods Home furnishings and accessories Gifts, novelties. books -- and newstands Specialty food stores Theatres, playhouses and similar entertainment (f) Services should be limited to those ....hlch serve as a convenience to the community and those ~hich help generate secondary shopping activity_ These Include. but are not 1 imited tOe Professional services Financial services Travel Hall'" and Beauty Other services, such as auto service, appl i ance repai r. laundromats, etc., should be located elsewhere In the eRA. J '1 ."" I ~ ..:, . .. , , -, ~~J ~~~ OW"tow~o~ntdon Beach . ~ e .veloome t Malor Projects n I'lan T..,. ..... II 'AI'''... _........., ..... ,. ,..,....., ,At '......,...... .". .......... .".' ... ....".. ......a... f.' ... ,.,."" . . ...""..." .r.,. F-12 MAJOR PROJECTS PROPOSED Three major development proje~ts are proposed as Illustrated In Exhibit F-~~ ,) A ~ATERFRONT PUBLIC PARK/SPECIALTY RETAIL/RESIDENTIAL PROJECT ;ould redevelop the existing Boynton Beach Plaza into a specialty retai l/entertainment center focused upon a nelot'1y created ....aterfront Public Park and Plaza. This Public Park and Plaza could almost be considered as a fourth major development project. It represents an exciting opportunity for the City Counci I to create an outdoor civic center for the benefit of generations to come. It Is Included as part of this multi-use project because of Its strong potential for integration Iot'lth the proposed commercial redevelopment and new residential uses. The multi-family residential project would orient on this water~ront amenity and support the adjacent retail development economically. Parking to serve shoppers and residents should be carefully coordinated wltn parking facilities adjacent to St. Marks. 2) A HOTEL PROJECT would help to enhance the Downtown Center's Tndegenous market as well as the Cltyls posltton In the regional tourist industry. The Hotel would be Ideally located overlooking both waterfront amenities. the marina and the mangrove. The Hotel would also have a well recognIzed Boynton Beach Blvd. address with high visibility from the proposed intracoastal bridge and be centrally located to support both specialty retail development areas. Parking to service the hotel guests will have to be carefully coordinated with adjacent office parking allocations. 3) A MARINA PROJECT would Intensify the popularIty of the existing marina by adding specialty retail shops and more restaurants Ideally located for patrons to enjoy the dally fishing and boating activities. Dry storage and repair services may be able to be located under the proposed bridge to provide space for retail shops on the existing piers. A Civic Center (auditorium, theatre, band-shell, etc.) Is also proposed overlooking a waterfront pla%a in a location easily accessible to Hotel guests. The day and night pedestrian activity associated with entertainment functions is Ideal next to a Hotel where a feeling of safety In an unfaalliar town is important. Parking to serve the marina area should be carefully coordinated with adjacent office parking but wl11 mainly be served by the addition of a public parking lot on the dead-end of Ocean Avenue. Two of the three major projects proposed encompass slecialty retail/entertainment uses. The reason For this emphasis is to provide an increased retai I trade attracted by a waterfront amenity. w~ich Is important for a strong diversified downtOlot'n economic base. It is also important in sustaining the downtown as a pedestrian-oriented district with activity throughout the day and evening (assisted by entertainment uses). The creation of new specialty retail and restaurant opportunities should spark interest and investment In the downtown as a shopping area and help promote tourist trade. The eRA should actively pursue the development of such uses. Project Phasing The pnaslng for the project(s) cannot be formulated at this time since a number of factors wi 1 I affect the project(s), such aSI 1) The ability to attract investors for a major redevelop- ment project. 2) Timing of land assembly. 3) Capacity for funding, especially tax Increment financing. 4) The completion of the Boynton Beaeh Boulevard Bridge. S) Business cycles CIRCULATION Since mueh of the eirculation system is Interrelated with other aspects of downtown redevelopment, only major circulation pat- terns within the downtown will be discussed here. Other elements of the system are discussed in the Pedestrian Streetscape Program. Exhibit F-5 Illustrates primary and secondary rlght-of-ways and those right-of-ways proposed to be added or removed from the circulation system. A major premise of this plan is that the proposed Boynton Beaeh Blvd. Bridge over the Intracoastal will be Implemented. Only one other R.O.W. is proposed to be added (north-south between the First Financial Center and the proposed mixed-use/hotel stte). This additional link wIll complete an Important loop necessary to servlee future traffle assoeiated with development of the Hartna. Locattng this new ltnk as close as possible to the Ftrst Finanelal Center wIll permit the greatest development opportunities assoelated with the Marina. R.O.W.'s shown as removed Illustrate those opportunities available to abandon R.O.W.'s tn order to consolidate parcels for the needs of larger developments. Four of these removedR.O.W.'s are suggested for traffie safety associated with railroad crossings and include portions of S.E. 4th Street and three R.O.W.'s running parallel to the F.E.C. Railroad (including where Railroad Avenue intersects Boynton Beach Blvd.). Abandonment of these R.O.W. 's should only be approved for projects substantially meeting the objectives of this Redevelopment Plan. F-14 C3 _ r';-", ~2~rj~ i i-1 ~ "LJ, I; 't, r- .... i~',:i / ;'- ~ ~.... .. ' 1-0 i . ~IC2 - ; ~ ' f y--~O , I - ;.-1/ ...... =t if--! ! := -: / H '6' - i ~ --.J M d - I : '.-'., '.,." .L ~2 ~ f ! r- ......--i1~i1_..iiiiiiii- I' .! .., C4 t J.':' ~ r- II !!: ~ l'rr--l~r 1'-' " ,"-".'f- ~ I IL '- ;:::::::ti,..--- ~ I j ~ j c.i:- -.il , ~js ~ : I ~' Ffl .....+.....~ I. :f ~ ~ .... . I : j ',~I ;' I ....--......-... Ii ,'J I 'R3YL 21 ---:~. 11,1~"'" , ...- .. .' . n'l ~ ; ~ II....... t I Ii- i I-i t I , r9~ 'I , It! ..... .~ Exhibit F-I , ~--1 : ~ VEHICULAR ClRCULA nON ; r--7 ~~ynton Beach i : Community Redevelopment Area R1A R2 _, '''1_' ~ " i... " '\ I .f ,. := .. II. .. .. ... .. R1A . c...... Boy",Oft C...., R1AA R3 " """ J I \ _" ......~ '._._...,..1 r- I , Ii I I!I :'1 ~ R1A . , r-- R3 .. . , . ~ 1 ! I, J -.- I .-......1- - r~ , I I ' ;1...... ,'.... t, .. ..,...... ... . j .._..~ I.,!!..... , ..... II... " " C3 .f:....L-7 II , I' I J ., I, R3 Key _ "..., ~ow _ ...~ ~ow .... ~_,.. ~ow .... "_'" .Ow,c:lr.....llGfl '/')' l -' ~ =---:-..::-.::..-.-::-..:_7"1::.......::::: .. ....,...... ..:.1 REC ~' ....., I .- -... ..-. ,-... .....~.. . :0 _ I: I . _...... '0 ..... . ..... . ............ -- _: ,------:, - ....... ............ . ....... ..........-. ~ ' - ~ . 'M... ... ......\. ....f. ._........... Ml j ~~~IL I ,: ~'R2"'iIl' C3..... l~ tot "... f ... ~.. '........ ".- . . ~r- ;;;0- PARKING SYSTEM Exhibit F-6 illustrar.~s a parking concept that provides an integrated system of conveniently located. visible, and readi ~y accessib~e off-street parking areas in the Downto....n Center. The proposed special treatment of parking lots will help Identify the DOlot'ntolot'n Center as a specia~ place distinctive from the rest of the City. The parking concept provides for limited mid-block entrances to parking lots whiCh would be identlffable by distinctive slgnage, landscaping, lighting, etc. By limiting parking lot entrances cur ban d me d I a n cut 5 are In I n I In I zed , t r a f f I c s a f e t y Imp r 0 v e d and roadside landscaping opportunities Increased. The parking concept for the Oowntown Center also locates parking behind bui1dlng masses in consolidated block aggregations to al.low a continuous active retai 1 facade to front along pedestrian-sealed streets. This is especially true In the tocal retail/business areas west of U.S. 1 and south of Ocean Avenue. Parking lots east of U.S. , and north of Ocean Avenue are located more adjacent to the street since they serve uses that "front" on the water amenity and I'back" onto the street (I.e., the Boynton Arcade, the Hotel, the Mixed-Use Center). In these areas existing land use patterns have been established which constrain the development of pedestrian-seated streetscapes. In order to service successful redevelopment a parking garage may be ultimately required. The illustrative plan suggests a central location to the west of the First Financial Center. This proposal envisions so~e combination of land swaps and Joint use that would result In more convenient parking for the three major development projects proposed. One unique parking opportunity may exist In the area under the proposed new bridge. The bridge's rapid Incline and prior construction ....ould create a substantial area available for general or marina oriented parking. Boat storage/parking or other commercial marina functions may also be possIble. In any event. this area represents a resource whIch should be considered when specific development plans are being prepared. Olscussions with O.O.T. should occur to establish the extent and availability of this 1and area. ~-16 .~'H -';'1 t'""/- '...". :1. ; ~~;f. KEy ~ ~ Midblo Parkinl , Entran ~ Parkin~ ~ . f '- r III., << Seach -~ Bo~~tg~YeIO ment Pia wntown System Parking . .... , , ,. '"""lllIt '''~''::''Ij 1'~1. .,.. II I....::,... ....I....~.. .~:..I.... "" ~ ....1.....' .......u... lore I hib it F-o ,..........., · x J " .....' ~~-:j j ~ .~ t:-'__ PEDESTRIAN AND STREETSCAPE PROGRAM The intent of a Pedestrian and Streetscape Program Is to improve the image of Boynton Beach and make the do~nto~n a more attrac- tive. pleasant and identifiable place. The carefully designed addition of pedestrian amenities such as crosswalk/~alkways. street furniture and directional slgnage wll I enable visitors and residents alike to vielot' the downtown as a unique and Inviting area of the City. The Pedestrian System. illustrated in Exhibit F-], consists of tlot'O distinct. but related systemsl l) the Public/Private Pedestrian System which incorporates public access through private property and, 2) the Public Pedestrian Streetscape System along major roadways ~here the greatest concentration of foot- traffic Is to be encouraged along a fairly continuous retal I facade. Program elements Include, l) The Improvement of the sidewalk system to achieve a consis- tent streetscape vocabulary which vIsually ties together the diverse segments along the major corridors by uslngl special paving or markings (at major Intersections, crosswalks, and sidewalks which are part of the major pedestrian system cross~alks (with ramped sidewalk landIngs extended into on-street parking areas) street furniture (seating, trash receptacles, bollards, bus shelters) luminaires landscaping of sidewalks and medians median extensions and curb re-deslgn (to minimize curb cuts and left turns and provide more space for median ~andscaplng) bicycle path system Integrated Into the desIgn of sidwalks, on-street parking, and curb cuts to avoid pedestrian conflict wIth bicycles. The should Center eluded Exhibit greatest concentratIon of these pedestrian Improvements occur along vlsable street frontages In the Downtown to emphasize retail continuity. Street frontages In- In the proposed major pedestrian system are shown In F-]. In areas outsIde of the Downtown Center, the above streetscape improvements should be limited to princIpally landscapIng (on both sides) to achieve streetscape continuity from a vehicular perspective. F-18 "' - "'-.' ~~J It . ...,. :~ 1""". . , ~ ; 2) The visual quality of parking lots and visibility of access points should be improved by, creating identifiable mid-block entrances (minimizing curb-cuts) locating parking lots behind buildings along the major pedestrian system to provide a continuous pedestrian environment and to emphasize retail facade continuity. creating through-block pedestrian arcades connecting parking areas to retail frontages providing landscaping (with coordinated design for private property and the pUblic streetscape) 3) The construction of Iot'aterfront pub~ic plazas at civic and retai I nodes should create spaces that act as focal destina- tion points of the major Pedestrian System, Boynton Beacn Plaza linking the pedestrian system at the proposed Cove (outdoor restaurants. seating, preserved trees in open grass areas. programmed cultural activities, fishing pier. dock space, and a boardwalk promenade with an educational interpretive system of the Aquatic Preserve) Civic Plaza at the Marina adjacent to the Civic Center (trees, seating, water or sculpture feature). 4) The implementation of a street graphics program. 5> The implementation of a commercial facade renovation program. 6) A systematic undergrounding of all aerial utility facilities throughout the core area is recommended coinciding with a block by block implementation of the Streetscape Plan. OPEN SPACE SYSTEH Exhibit F-8 shows two related open space systems. The primary system encompasses major open space available for public access, especially those relating to the waterfront. The secondary system includes the open space created along the pUblic and private Pedestrlan/Streetscape System, A major element of the Open Space System Is the recommended development of a new outdoor civic plaza as part of the first major project proposed (see page F-13). This new urban park and plaza would replace the largely ceremonial and little used Bicentennial Park which is recommended to be abandoned. Bicentennial Park should be retained as an urban open space, however, until the development of the new waterfront plaza is assured. F-20 ... ~I ... . . "-' ~>'~-1 AI \..J'iQ - Beach Plan Boynton elo ment Redev owntown ce System Open Spa .. ..."010 II r..,...", '''~'o:.'.1l Tftl. .'Ift " tft":ft".',~. __"'Uft.'. .~:..I..' ..... .........". I' "....... '" t h 'Ib it F - 8 ................ · Ex F-21 'f ' J! The proposed ~aterfront Publ ic Park and Plaza is envlsionec as a major element in the cityOs Parks and Recreation Program. the site should be designed to accomodate band concerts, art shows and festivals such as the Boynton Gala. In a highly visible location, the plazas. design should reflect the quality of life in Boynton Beach and evoke enormous Community pride. To complement the open space system, the Plan strives to preserve significant trees that exist ....ithin the redevelopment area and provide additional shade trees and canopy features in pedestrian areas. The most significant group of trees to be preserved exist on an old nursery site where the ~aterfront Publ ic Park and Plaza at the Cove is proposed to be located. Other major trees exist in the Ocean Avenue City Park, near the City animal shel- ter, and in Study Area Five. BUFFER SYSTEM The proposed Buffer System illustrated in Exhibit F-g, is designed to limit visual impacts on residential areas caused by commercial use and the F.E.C. Railroad. The system also screens the rai lroad and industrial development from new commercial development in the Downtown Center. Other impacts, such as noise and light, may also be reduced by the Buffer System, but visual results will be the most significant. The Buffer System can be installed as a landscape screen alone or combined with wall or fence elements for a more effective Buffer (depending on the specifics of each site). Development Guidelines with associated enforcement mechanisms to guarantee proper design, installation, and maintenance should be formulated and instituted (especially for the buffer in Study Area Six separating the backside of commercial development from the highest housing values abutttng the Redevelopment Area). F-22 .r':-'. :i- [ ~ Boynton C.lna, :i i;t i_ ~ _ :1 ~ :i,- -.~ #- ~ ~ =!r -' . ~ '0_" ..,_.-, -:: .. '..-..:-- ____ _ '_ __, - -- '~- el----.----- /. PIi,-.; -~a....., ,., /.--. I ::;' ~ --=:-== ~ I .., 'I"... . ~ ~ I ~/~== ':-/ ,~ i~. '.' ,-<<.. 'f "... ,,==-,~/ ,'] [,- ',c ~ '"" ......... ',;-i~C ~' -1 .. ". .. :1. .! .' ''--'''''''' '. ! I I: I" i ~.--.--.--~--.--.__.-A . , '0. .. - ~l.L..J · 1 - _/"--:,r--.....,:~ I ,~ _ !'~tJ'.,o :.tJ- !~', ; I " I .... -I ,....~.., .' I I I ~! ~.::=::: ;' ~ !U'O;f1~ i ! I ==~ >>---J =:J I'.. -: '!:X3!E!;;= -= ~::=; '-_ .1 ,':3" 6 ,. _g IOi-=7i L · S . · it"'i:=;! A . ---, J Ii lu 'orni'l 'U I':W. I C'-j I ~ DID ,. ceo I I ii' I ;h1aMO eMow to D. A....O..d :'~:~"'11B~ ~J .-.-._...h.... ~ [d1 ,;; ~ t. , I -- I I ,.. .. Iii I~ .......l(~~=tr! ! 'I' / I . ~.:i ' Proposed Buffer System Boynton Beach Community Redevelopment Area , I ..11I .... l' __._.c_ _.._I....... ........ ........ ...... . ..__ ...... 0... II"'" .... ".... . ......._. ........... ...... . ........ ....... . c............ . ........----. C& . I...... .......... .. _.. L ...... 1__.............. ..,.... I~t ~ l...-. 't- o 100" Exhibit F-9 1:_ ~ '2 Plan Implementation G INTRODUCTION In many instances. ~~e success of redevelopment will be pred:- c:ated on the community belief in the potential of the Commun ty Redevelopment Area. This belief is manifested in implementation programs designed to stabi 1 ize, create, enhance and/or reassure the market forces to ensure an economically viable plan for implementation. The Community Redevelopment Act, Chapter 163. Florida Statutes, establishes a framework of needs, tasks, goals and minimum ~riteria far redevelopment plans and sanctions t,e financing mechanism known as Tax Increment Financing (TIF. ~owever, the redevelopment strategy is much more comprehensl~e tnan any two (Z) financing meChanisms, and a TIF program alone wi 1 I not yield desired results. The community leadership ~\ determine the successes and fai lures of a comprehensive redevelopment program. This section outlines the leadership role that the eRA should undertake and describes the methods and techniques that are available to both the eRA and City Council and that will enable the City to achieve its Redevelopment Plan objectives. The critical policy tasks to be undertaken by the CRA fall into the general categories of attracting investment to the downtOlot'n, guiding physical improvements. and supporting and extending the effects of these reinvestments. To achieve this program, the CRA Iot'i I I need the support and guidance of the City Counci 1, assistance from City departments. and teChnical expertise from its own staff and consultants. The various components of the plan will be undertaken step by step, with timing and progress being dependent on funding and the success of the Initial steps. The day to day administration and leadership to accomplish the Plan's goals will come from the CRA as the implementing body for the City Counci 1. The eRA will be expected to mobilize the teChnical staff necessary to enhance the existing city personnel in order to implement the Redevelopment Plan. Of particular importance will be the CRAls role in encouraging prlvlte sector participation for implementing the plan, and its abi llty to work Iot'ith programs that can accompliSh private sector investment. while the ultimate decisions to approve or undertake a specific action, such as the abandonment of rights-of-way, often lies within the City Counci I, the significance of an aggresive eRA involvement in the decision making process cannot be overstated. eRA MANAGEMENT To support and increase the impact of many individual ~edevelopment efforts. management Iot'i 1 I be needed. Such tasks as ~romotion. improving security, recruiting new businesses, and ensuring a wel 1 maintained environment are important to support a ~einvestment program. These elements are particularly importan~ in support of an expanded urban area. Management is required at least three general usess ') ?rvmotion, including soe-:ial events, advertising, and scles. 2) ~dministration, including record keeping, maintenance, and security. 3 ) Business ~~velopment. sa1~s, market research including leasing, and attract ing new (\ot'here applicable) tenants, Tnrough this plan. management is keyed as important In the overall success of the plan as proposed herein, In that regard, tne Community Redevelopment ~gency must develop short, medium and long range goals, obje:::tives, policies and programs all designed :0 aChieve the ultimate end: a vital, successful, economi:::ally prOductive urban community of ~hich the citi~ens can be proud. The CRA must, therefore, use this document as a bench mark from ~hich to develop additional teChnical reports \ot'hich wi 1 1 be designed for a specific implementation (i,e., old town/special :axiny aistrict improvements). eRA MANAGEMENT AND COORDINATION To fully develop a comprehensive redevelopment program the eRA must closely coordinate \ot'ith the City Council with respect to ongoing ordinance development and existing regulatory functions, presently sponsored by the City. Areas with immediate opportunities for impl~mentation are as followsl ~~~.:.~.:.~.!l.:!.!:. Plan n i,n.3.: As proposed the Community Redevelopment Plan is consistent with the currently adopted Boynton Beach Comprehensive Plan. The City should. however, at the time of the Comprehensive Plan update, consider the redesignation of land in Study Area 6 from General Commercial to a less intensive designation such as Office Commerc i a I. ~ ? ". .... - - C3 R2 -r'~'",,- :~-i- fj-'.; 8oYft,Ot\ CMW · l : I:; R1AA . -..Ji !- .' '.....-..........-.-..--...-- ~ ::t ==t R1A . t 10'. "i~'~~ C21 . ~. ~ Ii=-' , I './"~. .~~, ; "" =" · R2J C :........., _ C4 ~ff ....." R3 a:m:n-. ltr .~ ,l--;- ~~C .-,-= It=z= Pu~REC ,fDii .;-:~., !II-- II R3 . ............- .It... .. R1A ;1 :\ .1 I i I , I -.. . . . a I 1 ; . o ~ :: oS .--, ID'~. '- PUi - .._... "'''''IN' -.... ___.1 [: I ' / 1Z:DtI.~~ ~L__ R3 .: ,;~3 I ~, 1'"-...... 1.0..-..- _ .-==~ _a~ ._._.-.h:::~" i 'I' feu!l . j::- r I I rn :--'- ;" 11 - ..,~"" .... ..... ........ n' .. R3 i 'I -I i " _" - .. f : I I~'------------ : i I ,ir- II! ,.. -J!I .,';" - ili Zoning tJ L Boynton Beach , . '"~ .. . i~ Community Redevelopment Area /,1",..: I':. -r ---, ,- .--1.......-- 0' . ...--.-......... .._ __ c... ..,.,.. REC ..- --..... . ....--. ........... ~ --= I I - ..... · ....................-.-. _ f': '* _ __.............. c.. . ' ..., t___ ~ I.~.~.....~.. ) oM'" ......~.... ......t..._..........._.. . . Jot... I' I._ .. R'A M' : " ,. ~t -,. t ;; ~ ~! ~ R2 . C3 G-3 ~a~d Jevelooment Re~ula:i~~s: - ~ " ~ del" to'o c rea t e ~ I) m m e ~ cia 1 .., 0 des , pro t e c t a 1 j ace ~ ':. ..,eighborhOods, encou~age mixed-use developme~t~ and suppor: a di1e~sified ec,,"omic ~ase ':.he following Z0ni'1g cha"ges a-~ -ec.,mme"ded: Rez.,ne all areas i" t~e "')owntown Center", to a special :S') zone that includes ~esi1ential/mixed use developme'1t in addition to the c"mme~cial. '"ecreational and amuse~e~': activities prese'1tly allo\oled by code. Provide deve100ment flexibility for projects less than 5 acrii-in the C8D. :' h e P 1 ann i n g D e par t men t S h 0 U 1 d b e in, t r u c t e d t 0 U_u d Y the oossibility of expanding the uses in the C-2 Neighborhood Zoning ::lassification. in addition. in order to establish a proper regulatory framewor~ for the CaD zoning referenced above, it is recommend that the existing CBO zoning district provisions in the City" zoning code be expanded to specifically provide for: a g:"eater OPPol"'tunity for the integl"'ation of land uses, including residential transferring or clustering of residential density and/or commercial intensity the preservation of natural resources adherance to a specific set of land development guidelines for the Downtown Center a community design review process developed speCifically for the Downtown Center the coordination of 1ndividual redevelopment efforts the creation of publiC open space and access to the pri~cipal DowntowM Center amenity: the waterrront the development of incentives for private i~vestme~t and reinvestment r" order to facilitate the planning and design of redevel-,pment area projects a Land .n.e.v_elopment Manual should be prepared consisting of a cro;s:r.eferenced development code that include, all regulations and standards that apply to development in the CRA. It should also contain a description at the various incen- tive programs and techniques that are available to the private sector for eRA developments. G-4 ~1"." Boynton C.~ C4 to C~ ... ~ '~ C2 to C3 . ~/-- -- .- I- .' ,- .1 :' ., -\ r-e.., . · f ._._.---e_._.J I . - . a. . . .. . l ! . . o v .; S i I I VariouS to CaD 10,1\'0" .. C2 to C3 ~ _eMo...eo 'S C So.. ... S I .." ... Recommended Zoning Chan~ Boynton Beach Community Redevelopment Area 't u..- ...... ........ ,..--- ""'......- r. - ...... ........ ..... . t.--' __ 0.'. -- -... .....' . ...--... ......... ..... .. .....- . ....... . ~.-.--.. , __..... .......,... c. ....... ,............. .- ....... ........ .--.-- ;:::;;- ~ \- o ,oe 1_ . & ". .. :~de :nforcement: - f22~11~!i2~ ~i!~l~ 2~!r ~~ll~l~! 1~1E!~!12~ Ql~1112~1 - ~ne mecha~ism to-help in aChieving rehabilitation is a sensitive c~de enforcement project that, in an orderly fashion, inspects exist:."g older buildi"gs to ensure that minimum building standardS are mai"tai"1e1. Po. sensitive code enforcement program (worKing with building owners) will result 1n renovatLo"1 investment that pr"duces improvements that surpass city minimum requirements. qight-Of-Way Abandonment: Abandonment of R/W is a proven positive incentive to the private sector fal" investment in the urban area. Unnecessary R/W can be jedica~ed back to the developer. thus creating a more flexible design opportunity and realistically reducing land cost, which will positively impact the economies or the project. Referenced in the Text of the Plan is an immediate opportunity for the eRA to adopt a R/W abandonment policy. ~ Acquisition/Assemblage: An important tool for the eRA to utilize is the technique of Land Acquisition and Disposition with the Approval of the City Council t? qualified developers for projects deemed consistent with the plan. The assemblage program can be as direct as acquisition and as indirect as sponsoring an appropriate R/W abandonment program, which will serve a~ an incentive for developers by reducing land C':lsts. There are a variety of alternatives to secure land ror redevelop- ment. eRA direct negotiations with property owners for purposes of assembling potential parcels is si.mple and direct. Established leaders in the community, on the other hand, may be able to encourage property owners to pool their holdings, f':)r sale directly to interested developers. In any event, the eRA must be in close contact with key property owners ma1~taining open lines of communication throughout the redevelopment process. Marketing! Promotion The m"st visable management responsibility will be that Marketing and Promotion. To a great degree, this effort will the tempo fol" community support and will be the single important mechanism to inform the community about redevelopment effort. ~r set most t his G-6 CJ r'," C2 ,. ,- -{ t _ -=-t- ~"ro" ~ I f--1 ,j ---i I' . /1-- -k t=f a-__ =r "...,__...1:::=.... , -~.. -........... C2 "":., , If:"_' 1- --=1t;..... l .~/-.:.~ II- _/L .,...~ . : ~r-- : PU ~l~,'-- 1_ I I;:..=-:- r --j" .., OC i=- 1- - '. . ::== -1: 1.__.. ... '0~ lJ~liL . i'"'''' ... - 5f'.'1 R2 "L ,,...... ..... . :. I .1 ! -~---_.~_..- .. ..-........ '!.!.!""-_ I - j-.- - ,.-- C4 ;.-.:-- ~r.-- . -. i I : ~:= u".r.,--- t /----t=:-= .= - - 1 .-- 1-. -/,_.- -- -- - ___f';;';-""t'~-- 1=== I=,=- _0- i=='= l~iREC* ... v=::; D:li ~/--,:-l-- ..~.\ ,. .... 4 .. ---.. -=-=== ; - ";'~~l r-L 1%J:it]. - .- 1 R3 _~;- ,-o.=-..--l- '/b~.~C ; ~."~':_~:: .:r- -/;t-:I r.-.-........,..... .. lib' feu1 1-. i .. ..,.. ::~.,. f~' - - ! =-= -.wm-. L j' -I:=- -- · e /' - !....._._.~ .-=:-...:....:1 <Ilil3!::.-ccql _ -- r MAJOR PARCEL OWNERSHIP ~. - /1 - - - i;: Downtown Center R'A -I;-~ i; It- -~ ~I'. , --- ~. ij REc .j, -II --- ii I-.'I.-.~ . I'~..!!!!!!!.!!-:'.!I!!~.!!!.' . ~ ill ! !! I : R2 C3 ,.~.: . I . R1~ R1AA R2 R3 .....~ R1A ~l f . " . . . ; I ! . i j R3 ,.. ... .. ......... Boynton Beach Community Redevelopment Area 'r' ::::=~:=-=I~." ~:.::-~.. \ ..- ::.: =::.~~::.= J ~"' .........." ......._....-- M1 The first step in coordinating a meaningful Marketing Program, is that of determining the positive aspects of the redevelopment effort. The intra-coastal \ot'ater~ay, reinforced by the suggested plan improv_ements is the basis upon \ot'hi..::h to build a successful marketing program. The Ne\ot' Boynton Beach Boulevard and Bridge improvement program is another key publ i.:ly financed improvement that must be used to promote the publ ic :ommittment to the do~ntown redevelopment effort. Keying on ac.:ess, :irculation (vehicular and pedestrian) and parking as referenced in the plan, in terms of convenience to the consumer,~ill establish a positive base upon ~hi..:h to build this comprehensive marketing effort. The Marketing Strategy must incorporate every possible positive aspect of the urban area, thereby heightening the perceptions of the publ i.: (both locally and in the secondary market area). The eRA must consider the need for identifying responsiblity of this marketing task to one individual for purposes of coordination. This may be an in-house staff member of the CRA, a City Staff member or, given the importance of this function, a professional marketing consultant. An alternative to CRA day to day implementation of this marketing effort would be to organize the do~ntown interests into an association ~hich would have, among others, the responsibl Ity of developing the marketing strategies. Recommended promotion techniques include, (,) Calendar of Events - Monthly downtown concerts, and eXhibitions~ coupled with a retail sales effort, have proven to be successful, (2) Media Involvement - Radio/TV/Newspaper, developing contacts in each area is essential to information des.:emenation. (3) Logo/ldentltt Competition - Involve the community/county in a design competiton, (4) Signage/Graphlcs Program - Once a graphic logo-identity has been established a program for incorporating this identity on all signage and graphics associated with redevelopment activity should be adopted, e.g. a sign stating. "This proje:t/event sponsored by the Boynton Beach Community Redevelopment Agency.1I (5) Entrance Identification Program - Keying on entrance identification into the downtown redevelopment area is a relatively inexpensive project that can be implemented immediately. By properly promoting this effort with a "ribbon cuttingll ceremony, media involvement and an appropriate logo/signage program the eRA can "kiCk-off" the redevelopment process. a-8 (6) Landscape Improvements - Small scale. but immediate. improve~ents can ooast community confidence in the potential of downtown and the significance of the Community Redevelopment Agency. it is recommended that initial!" these improvements be focused on the corridors leading into the DO\ot'nto\ot'n Center. (7) Slide ~ Program/Speakers Bureau - With or without a slide sho\Ol program, a speakers bureau avai lable to all interested organizations is a must. (8) Illustrative (jraphics - Even before the adoption of specif,c design guidelines for the DO\Olnto\ot'n Center. illustrations of "\OIhat could be" can be prepared for publ ic viewing. Tl'1e exhibition of University of Miami student work is along these lines. PUBLIC IMPROVEMENTS ""ater!. Sewer ~ Drainage Improvements In many instances the CRA must address expenditures relating to the upgrading of the general infrastructure system In the redevelopment area. However, Boynton Beach has developed a \Ole 1 I through out infrastructure plan \OIhich is in place and, therefore, \ot'ill relieve the CRA from concentrating its funding to upgrade the system. As a result, CRA funding will be able to concentrate on other necessary redevelopment expenditures. Based on the proposed development program for the Downtown Center, an analysis of the impact that the proposed projects \ot'ould have on water, sewer and drainage services was done to determine the adequacy of existing facilities and/or propose a means of expanding these services to accommodate the projects. For the purpose of this analysis it has been assumed that redevelopment outside of the Downtown Center would not be of the same magnitude and that, while redevelopment would often involve the upgrading or replacement of existing structures and uses with newer structures and more economically viable uses, the additional Impact on water, sewer and drainage services would not be significant. The analysis concludes that the proposed redevelopment \ot'ill neither strain existing facilities nor incur improvements. (see following pages, for justification). project costly Electrical Power, Telephone and Natural i!! F.P.&L., Southern Bell and Florida Public Utilities have indicated a willingness to cooperate and assis't in the design and coordination of future utility installations and relocations. '.\lCH....EL. B ~C:-!lJR...'.~, ~ ,,~~c'\..;....TF.~. :,,'- !:QI~k~=~ ~-:: :..:':". ::r.:H2 ~~~lIe~Y ~g'da~s ,:_[:.!',~t QQV~ _:~J :d~j ~r,e c:='mpr(?~,::'r:Sl\;-:: pl",r-, T':"- V"';2 ::'0 r-,tor-, 8~~.:J-s COiTtlitl..tnltv Fs::lje",;:;'l,:-pir'il.r,: ...,1""2.';' 111Cl'.';-:::.:; the fQJ.lr:'"'lr.'J '.: :..~tlng ,;..r,.j pre-po:ed l~.nd 1..1:ES In trH:: ~: c,wn t ,:,wn ': s:'r: t Et- : , ~, c: 0 r- U .:; -,2 t:.'l:tn-:,J ~.. ;-' ~-.t ~-:. . I r:-.r':'p'~:ed I '=". ~ 1 :.:;.,- ..,- l I:' e "7':',.. I>l.lll =.'~. 5() .. \)()(, s. F . 1 :':5 . (II)() S '. f: . .- ;;:, t i'. 1 1 15<1. '.)'./1) ~. t- .. 8':'. <J(Ii) S. F . :~:() ~ r~J()() S. F . ,... '2: 1 .j':WI t 1 all L>) O.U. 1:0 D.U. =,:1',':-01 =/ ~ n ~ ': I t '.1 ,~ lor", -:l~l. \)':'1.' :3.~;.. \) ::(1. (ll)(l S. F. '-, ,._, ': '.~,l 15(1 Pooms 1 =:(1 Room~ ~ ....\ .:,:.: ';, t t- ~ " -: :. . I 1 I"'.: l:::.l)l)i) ';:. F. 1:::. (HJI) S. F. ~~Qf.:~ Ihe ~cope 0+ thl~ stud~ lS to provlde ~ greCon5tructlon anal~s15 of tr-,'::~' t">..\tLt'''''.2 ,..'tl11 tlC:; lmp.....ct r:1"\~\t the prc-pc.sed prOject ~~i 11 h~.."e (:Jrt tr\~: .:,r-2':~ 1r, Vlr-,l'::;', 1t 1= to be t"_lllt .and to ens,-u-e the ~deq'-lc.c,. -;:11' ;'.:'lSt1r,9 f0r:lllt1es .~r,d:c~ propose a fe~~lble and economlcal means of adequat~lv ~ervl~g the project. ~g~~IIQ~ ~UQ ~~~~EIEI1Q~ lt1~ slte 0+ the proposed REdev~lcpment ~re~ could be loosely deflned ~s the area surrounding the lnt~~section of U.S. Hlghw~v 1 and Boynton ~e~ch Boulevard in downtown Boynton ~each, ~lorlda. H',€: C',ppro::lm~t~ bo'-'.nda.rli.~:; ,?ro:? t:he F.E.C. f;:.:\iln~a.:l t~~,cks on th.: ~'je<::t. tl.':::. ~"tl-, ",'/o.:,r,ue .~r-. l.r-,;: 1I.:)rth. '~.E. 2nd ";'",oan'_le on the SOI..\th an.j th~ ~ I "~I'. .?,.:,.:.?= t =, l 1,1.:,t-2!'~~""" t:.n 1:.tH'" E'.Jo.:t. E~[~!l~~ ~Q10~~~ ~~!~f 009 ~~~ll~~~ ~gHE8 ~Q~QIl!Q~~ . rhe e~lstlnq ~2ter dl~tr1butlcn ~ystem l~ In qood condltlon ~nd n~= ,:..je':lUo:.'Ite c:?p,:..'':lt'! t;.~ ,'!er-".e the EZ'.~l=tlnq .;jemc..nds In the F:edE:',":?lopment ,.r-'-;...,.. lhe.:rs, 10: ~. l:-J 11',.::1", tt"'urd .r,,:':Ln ~.H'.~sently proposed bv ttH~ [ltY' 0" E;' .::) ';' r.': .:.n L< oz.? r::-, 1~lt., 1 ':: h 1;: t: c- t' ,_, r, 1 r, t. t"!';? I.-j.=,t'" t h / ;~OL', th oj i r E'= t i on .~,rl.j If,,='t- e Cor (:-10 ..;, .... . _ ~--i _r,_~ ~ :J,. c...~::-- .-..=ss: . . - ='" ~- - '- the ~estErly tc~~c~~ !ne ~edevelapment ~re~. ,rro- =2'r,l,:arv =e~-::'Iqe ccll'=:':l:-- =,,:,,:em WhiCh i=,re5erltlv serves ':rH2 ..:~,j='/ei=pment Area 1S ge--',;:r-,;.,,~ .:i good condlt1on w1th the E:~cept:=r :';1'" r:!'-,e _.,' dtr"'l-+=lE,j 1::_:', i='lPE qr':'Yitv; whiCh rltrlS c.long r~.E. :'n:: ":'..,:;:-r,I.I.e. ;:'e:?rit aEter1:r:"t_l(Y1:~ :l'""tlS plpe ..1111 m05t Ilfely wc?r"-an- ..- ~,p ~ :-~ c ~ fi'! Eo n t 1 n ":. r-! '? r, e :-. r .,.. 1_, r:. '_I, t. -= . ".2~-':.:'::: r..:,rle rTl:-.:ter lltt :,:;,,::..,,::,..:r-I .....1I..,lcrl : l';t st",~.ic'rl 1: in E"CEll.?r,t CPEI-::-t1ng .:~p,:'.,:::t\f (:!f ::a<n) g.:-.11c\r'~ ~,.:.,,- .T11r-,ute 2-,t serves thE entlre condltion and h~5 11~ feet T.D.H. :: ~.l j ::".r r::::o, . iii oE5igr ~~~l~~=~Q l~~t~~~~ IN ~QI=~b~ ~~!~~ Q~~6UQ 1. . I~i r r 1 C t? : rh"t \_\:C:l.t'le otfl,:e =p:?.:e = 5':>.(Il)') sq. ft. H S 5 Ll me: 1) I:>. 1 g ....11 on s per day / sq. ft. 100~ cccupanc~ rate Pee.l f~ctcr = 2.0 144,) minute5' d:?'{ ::> -:, ) 4\ 5<1. (.h)t) 'J. 1),' 144(; i'I:?,. C:,rt'lce def!",c:.n.j - '~.'I I" -=-,~ ;. .!. 1 : = ~~= '~~r;:~ '1l.:. tJ~T:. l~~=-.==-.t\ie =p:t'== = ;'j').l)ll'.J ::q. ft, ,....:,:; ~ t.I.1Tte : 1 ) :":J I)..l qallan~ per- d....,!/sq.ft. 1 ')<l~'. C'C CLq:, an ,= ":' (.;' t" .:~ ~I PEak +actor = ~.5 41 144(1 fTllnLltes/dav i'l:? F',:?tc.ll Demand:: (::.5 :: 8,:1.1)(1l) '. -:1.1)/144.) ;- .. 1 !-"'::~l ,j;::r,L1. ,,01: :: 11.:.~ ~.d2!...!.!! :. I,i'.lmber of Dwelling Unlts = 1:>) D.U. H!:: SLIme: 1) 2) :'1 .+ .' 2.5 persons/().U. 100 g:?11ons per person/daY p~:?~ tactor = :.5 1.:04'.1 minLlteS! d..~.'{ ,-, .; 'f .-- ...) l'./l) ..', c.- _...J L -'\ , I 1 4 '.+0:' i"I~ Rp.~identl~l Dem:?nd = :: ;;~.:.1 9d2.:.!!:i.:.. .; c rd'>:, 1 ~ .Ell' dIn = t..: 1 t L' +: 1 an'.: : ii, n€~.'_ )rlcr-~:.=~ In .j.,;:",,;.nd -:nT:1 i':lP-::'Ited. '.W::-L\EL 3 )CC1CR...\:-t ~-\:":l:":l(jCL\ rES. :'.\.. " . Hot e 1 : r h.lmber of Rooms = l5') '::'==LlfTle: 1 I 1.8 p~r=on=:room 11:") 9~.11,:,r,= ~.~r- per-sorl/day .1').)-'_ I:' '= '= '_!~l ~ r, c '/ F~al factor- = ':".5 144(1 ,TI1nl_!tes"j:';.'f .: ) 4) c: _, I I'!~ ~Qtel Gem~nd - ':.5 1 SI , 1 . 8 . , 1'.".1.1 I 1 4-.+ (J = ~s...: .J The-?ter-'ClvlC: CE?rlt~r-: Net Lls=-t,le area = 1:.-:">_' :q. ~t. ~s 5Ltme: 1 ) (J. 1 g ....11 on s per day.' sq. f t. Peak fea.etar- = -::'.') 144(1 nnrIL\te5:dav :) ::l ,-1",::. I he...,ter, C 1 v 1 ,= I.':~r!tet- !)~'fTsC\rl,j = (1.2.'....'<, ': 0:'.1 " ~:.':..I:'1o+41) = -.-' ,~.:_Q.!..t].!.. L. I.j.?!. II-,,::r.ement.ao.l. ~.,~t=,b1e vJ",ter L,~,<Tt.ao.n,j: E..p.:?'=te,j U,?fl)~nd 1nc:r~aSe 1n potable = ~.q + 1:'.9 + 5:.1 ~~a t o:?r +- -+o.'i + ,... ~.. -....1 = .1~';~1 g.:.2.:..ffi..:. ~~ll~~lgR lU~E~~2~ l~ ~g~a~g EbQ~ Assume sewage flew increase = 95% of Ma~. Potable Water Demand Increase :-1"'q, SevJc?ge Flol-.I increase = (.95) <:1'::'::.::: g.p.m.' = 1!.~.L.~ g~e...:.m.:.. '"QU~'=1d21Q~ II-,E corltrilct has been Ie': for the proposed lo" \O,ater main along N.E. ~rd Street. Said water ma1n. when ln5tall~d, WIll act as a booster to th~ downtown ~rea .na w1ll ~nsure adequate capacIty for th~ Community Redevelopment FroJ~ct. ~n) pr~po~ed ,nid-r1se bUIldIngs will need to b~ equipped Witt, wC\ter ~upplY booster pumps to overcome the st~tic he~d dl,+.~r.""'n+:l=,l .~t'Il.,=h 1-:: .LrolH:-r'ent in tJ......t t',pe of strL!ct'.lt-e. T~.;. qlr""',l~,/ :(:~I.Jer- Sy:tei1'! :-.nd m;;;.;tf~r' l.l.ft stiltion Wt11Ch set-ve the c~.I'.e,:. ~'r o? p r- ~: -:: ': r', t: 1 y ,=, r;' e r' "':.. t 1 n <:] L. -? 1 ,:;. \0'1 d o:?::1 ..~ n ,= <'0. P :0. ':: I tv.... n d w ill n Q t to e ~..j .~r~':.t..- ",-1' h:::c:t~;:d t,.,' trl~~ Ce:'(i'fT1I..ln, t.,. F,:,;j!?'/l!'1cpm~nt Froj~c:t. G-12 ',-','::' ~ ~\ ~."i~-,ri_.).,tl:..... '\J..::lL'C:A fL.., ~" -:"he 20" gravity sewer main which flows eastward along Boynton Beach 80ulevard is in d~srera~r and will warrant attention in the near future regardless of whether the redevelopment project is or is not implemented. We propose that the section of pipe which lies east of U.S. 1 be replaced with ~ew pipe in cGnjunction with construction of the proposed new bridge. After discussion with Mr. Perry Cessna, Director of Utilities of the City of Boynton Beach, we feel chat a process known as Insituform can be utilized to repair the section of 20" ~ravitv sewer that lies west of U.S, 1. Said ~rocess will ensure the future functionality of the existinR pioe and will preclude the need of costly cut and repair of :he Boynton Beach Boulevard road surfacp.. In general. 1t 1S our Judgement that the eXlsting potable water and sanitary sewer lnfrastructure has been well deslgned .nd is in good operating condition. The proposed redevelopment project wlll nelther straln existlng facilltles nor incur costly lmprovements. ~ -=: . ~....:: ~ ~~ i _ ,. -, { --: - -= ... : s ~s part ~f tne Maste~ ~lan ~evelopment for the redevelopment of tne do....ntO\ot'n area of aoynton Beach, it is contemplated that a ....aterfront amenity be developed involving the extension of a canal access from the Intracoastal \.Iater\olay into a bay area around ....hich commercial development could take place. This development \oIould necessitate the removal of some of the existing mangrove forest to proviae \ot'ater access into that area. A part of this prog~am \oIould also be the development of a small channel entering this area from the north to provide a flushing loop through the area to enhance the \oIater quality of the completed project. In the implementation of this portion of the project, the Redevelopment Authority should take the following steps& I. Attempt to gain control, either by fee title ownership, lease or exchange of al I of the existing mangrove forest area. This would provide them with a better position relative to permitting of a proposed project thr~ugh the regulatory agencies both at the State and Federal levels. 2. Prepare a may affect background impact for detai led study of the mangrove forest area as It the future proposed development and to provide the for an assessment of the biological and ecological. the proposed construction. 3. Provide a refined detail plan of the proposed waterfront development in terms of the size. depth, and exact location of the water area relative to the affected wetland areas and formulate a plan in consultation with the regulatory agencies for the mitigation of the loss of any of the wetland areas. 4. Determine a proposed strategy for the implementation of the project considering alternative financing. potential for sharing of the proposed construction with future developers in the dO\olntown area, or the possibility of bond financed construction of the entire project as a part of a comprehensive dO\olntown redevelopment program. 5. Assess the feelings of the community and the environmental interest groups regarding the project so the possibility of any future objections to the proposed program may oe overcome prior to impl~mentation. G-14 ALTERNATIVE METHODS OF FINANCING The f::> \ 1 0.... i n -g i s a 1 i s t 0 f pot en t i a 1 fin an c i n g t eF h n i que s w n i: I"! can stimulate and enhance the :ax increment financing program that is being developed through this plan, It should be clear; f understood that not one, but several techniques should De developed and that those techniques that would best suit a particular need be used. Ultimately the eRA in conjunction Wit~ local financial institutions, merchants and interested citizens are responsible for promotion, administration and business development. The eRA \ot'ill also be responsible for the review and monitoring of proposed legislation \ot'hich wi 11 affect the downtown redevelopment process through the Florida Downtown Development ~ssociation and other lobbying organizations. Chapter 163 of the Florida Statutes, as amended, ....as developed by the lobbying effort referenced herein, through the efforts of many organized downtown development authorities and community redevelopment agencies in the state. Tax Increment Financing. Tax increment financing is a financing technique which would enable the Redevelopment Agency to capture the anticipated value, to be added to the tax base in the subject area through redevelopment. Generally, at the time the redevelopment plan is formally adopted, the assessment base \ot'ithin the redevelopment area is frozen for municipal and county tax purposes. These jurisdictions would be guaranteed, the same amount of taxes as collected prior to the adoption of the tax increment district, Assuming the same tax rates, new development in the area would result in increased valuation and an increased tax flow. The increment is the difference between the new gross tax revenue flow, and the frozen, previously existing flow. This increment is then uti 1 ized to amortize bonds, initially issued to finance publ ic improvements in the redevelopment area or tax increment district. Land ~rite-Oownsl - Land write-downs refer to the sale of land by a publ ic or development agency at less than its fair market value. This provides a direct front end cost savings to the developer. ~edeal funds (EOA or HUO) and local bond issues can be used to finance original land purchases by the redevelopment agency Tax Abatements: Tax ~batement affects the operating costs of the thereby has a direct impact on the rate of return Taxes on property are ~ostponed for 5-10 years and increase over a 20-25 year periOd. Tax unconstitutional under Florida la~, project and on j n v est men t . tP'ten gradua l' Y abatement is Lease ~ Sale of ~ Propoertyt Develop/lease or sell real property is where a redevelopment agency purchases and accumulates land, constructs site improvements and possibly buildings, and then leases the land and/or buildings. The redevelopment agency could also sell the land and improvements to a developer. This procedure greatly reduces the developer costs and investment risk. Interest ~ Subsidy ~ ~ Guaranteesl Interest rate and loan guarantees leverage private investment by reducing interest rate costs and promoting financial stability by insuring lending monies are avai lable. These mechanisms also make financing possible for high riSk areas not prone to normal development pressures. Joint Participation: Joint participation is an approach designed to stimulate private Iproperty improveme~ts. The city constructs certain public improvements such as a pedestrian system, in reciprocatln for improvements to private property. The city has the option to use local or federal funds to pay for its improvements as well as help finance (loans or grants) property owner ilnprovements. Special Assessment Districtl A special assessment district is another form of joint participation. The special assessment district is created when 51 percent or more of abutting property owners petition the City Counci 1 to establish a defined area for some specified public improvements (i.e., sidewalk improvements). The total or partial cost for the improvements is then assessed to all property owners \ot'ithin the district over a specified periOd of time. The establ ishment of such districts must be created through City Counci I ordinance and therefore pUblic hearings are necessary. ~_1~ E~onomi.; Development Cor:;Joration (EJC): The E:onomic. Development Corporation (EDC) offers a strategi.; organization for attracting private investments 6ecause of the flexibility afforded its quasi-public, non-profit status. r";e advantages of E~C'S are described below. Because they are administratively autonomous quasi-publ,.:;, agencies, staffs are hired by and accountable to a full-time director. Salaries and overhead costs are financed out of pUblic rather than private sector grants as well as tr'\rougn fees and service .;harges. EDC's are private corporatins rather than city agencies as a result are not prohibited from assisting private In real estate and financial matters. and firms Many quasi-publ ic EDC1s have demonstrated a special capacity to "packagell various development financing tools by combining various capital resources through urban municipalities with private business assistance funds. These various leveraging teChniques offer opportunities for tailoring incentive and financial mechanisms to meet specifiC local situations. _ J.- OTHER FINANCING ALTERNATIVES Introduction Successful downtown redevelopment is undoubtedly tied to the availability of adequate funding. In order to implement this plan sufficient financial resources are required. T"ere are a variety of ways to approach the issue of funding downtown redevelopment projects utilizing a combination of fede~al, state and local resources. The ultimate combination of funding resources will be determined by availability and criteria requirements of the various funding sources. It is important to note that fede~al funding has histo~ically provided the majo~ity of support for redevelopment projects. This phenomenon has its roots in the massive urban renewal movement which began as a result of federal legislation in 1949. T~e ability of cities to rely on this source of funding has been declining in the past several years with the elimination of the urban renewal program and the altered intent of the Community Development Block Grant (COBG) program. The constant flux of current federal fiscal policies increases the difficulty in delineating the availability of programs and their funding levels for an extended time periOd. This is further complicated by the inequities between the money authorized for a particular program and the money whiCh is ultimately appropriated. The consequences of this trend are important, the competition for appropriated federal money increases as does the reliance on State and local resources. Because of these conditions the need for an open information flow with the federal government increases. To m a x i m i % e a I I a v e n u e s 0 f fin an c I a 1 res 0 u r c e 5 i tis i m po r tan t t 0 explore all possibilities. however, the nature of change in the availability of federal funding does emphasize the Importance of focusing on State and local funding sources. State financial assistance for downtown redevelopment exists in several indirect forms_ These include enabling legislation and tax credits. Enabling legislation gives municipalities the authority to do a number of things whiCh can be used for downtown revitalization, these include Instituting tax increment financing, issuing industrial development revenue bonds (IRBls) and issuing revenue bonds. In addition. there are three tax credits, which the state legislature enacted and whiCh became effective recently, that relate directly to community revital i%ation. G-18 Local financial resour~es are largely the programs avai laole through State enabling legislation. The State's on1y function _1"\ t r) i s are a -j sin the act u aId e 1 e 9 at i on 0 f power tOt h e muni;ipality to institute particular programs. Accordingly tr,e 30ynton Beach eRA has concentrated its efforts on implementing tax increment financing. The possibility of using IRBls and revenue bonds are also options in addition to tax increment financing that could be instituted at the local level. It should be stressed that the nature of funding programs s extremely fluid. The following is a discussion of programs nat :urrently exist. Although at this point the posslbi I ity of 'ew funding sources does not appear promising there have been some examples of new sources in the recent past, such as the emergence of the Urban Development Action Grant program by the federal government. Federal Funding 1) Housing and Urban Development (HUO) - There are several programs under the auspices of HUD in the form of project grants, direct loans and guaranteed loans. The following assortment includes appl icable programs which have been earmarked for further funding. a) Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) - This program is based on an entitlement formula and is set up to provide assistance to faci I itate decent housing, a suitable living environment and opportunities for low and moderate income groups. This program evolved out of the former categorical grant programs and instead of being earmarked for a specific type of urban improvement can be used in a variety of ways. Some of these include the acquisition or construction of certain pUblic works, facilities, improvements, clearance or rehabilitation. C 06 G mo n i e s are c h ann e led i n to" tar 9 eta rea S II . b) Urban Development Action Grant (UOAG) - The most recent addition to the Federal Government's efforts to "prime the pump" for redevelopment in Amerl.:a's cities today, UDAG is a highly flexible economic development tool in which the main thrust Is to stimulate private investment by providing seed money supplied by the program. Tnese grants are to assist cities in revitalizing stagnating economies and to help deteriorating neighborhoods. UDAG is specifically geared to one time opportunities and t~ help communities capture and leverage significant private inveJtment. A private sector financial commitment, must be secured before an Action Grant can be awarded. The ratio of private investment to grant fundS must be at least 3,1 One significant advantage of this program is the rapid turn-around time. Applications may be submit- ted quarterly and HUO makes final decisions on approval no later than the last day of each quarter. Awards are announced Shortly thereafter. UDAG has great potential for the Boynton Beach Redevelop- ment program. Initially, local .government Must develop private sector interest in the redevelopment concept. Public improvements necessary to make private investment feasible (i.e.. road\llay improvements, water/sewer, land acquisition. etc.) must be evaluated and relative costs determined. The analysis of private investment, project. by project, must be summarized and a private/public dollar investment ratio determined. The ratios must be in line with historical standards (HUD statistics). Spe- cifically, the three major projects cited in the Plan are excellent opportunities for a UDAG leverage program. This effort must be coordinated by the City Planning Department or its agent. c) HUO/FHA Loan Insurance Programs - 1. Section 213 - For constructin or rehabilitation of coopertive housing. 2. Section 233 - For constructln or rehabilItation of housing using advanced technology or experimental design. 3. Section 234(d) - For construction or rehabilitation of condominium projects. 4. Section 235 - For Interest subsidies and mortgage insurance for new or substantially rehabilitated single family units for lower income families. 2) Economic Recovery Tax Act of 1981 - Congress recently passed legislation which provideS tix-rRCentives for rehabilitating older business st~uctures to encourge business to remain in center cities Instead of relocating In new buildings In outlying suburbs solely to take advantage of the tax advantages offered by the present accelerated cost recovery system. The new system (Section 157, Tax Credit for Rehabi I itation Expenditures) is a th~ee tier investment - -- .:redit. It applies~:; re'laDi', tation costs incurred after Jecember 31, 1981. f'le :ax :;redit iS15% for nonresident:ai structures that are at least 30 years old. 20% f~r nonresidential structures t~at are at least 40 years old and 2,% for al I structures t'lat are certified on the National Register of Histori:; Places. In order to receive these credits the taxpayer must meet the :;riteria for "substantial rehabilitationll and must 'use the straight line method of ::OSt. recovery for rehabilitation expenditures. 3 ) Small Business Administratin (SBA) - Available SBA includel programs a. Loan guarantees - most SBA financing is done under the A program \ot'hich focuses on working capital needs. ~nder this program a bank makes a loan to a small business with a 90% federal guarantee. Loans usually extend for 5 to :' years. b. Section 502 - this section provides long-term loans and guarantees to local development corporations for constructin, conversion or expansion of business facilities, including purChase of land, building and equipment. The local developers must provide 10-20% of the costs. c. Neighborhood 8usiness Revital izatin Program (NBRP) This is a new program to stimulate jobs and business In order to strengthen neighborhoods and increase private sector investment and the local tax base. NBRP uses 502 monies. as well as SBA individual loans. 4) Economic Development Administration (EDA) - EOA provides a variety of grants and loans to encourage long-term economic development and increased employment. The creation of jobs is a major objective of EOA. a. Title I - Grants and loans are available for publi: works and development facilities. Oirect loans are for up to 100% of the costs and grants up to 60%. b. Title I I - Business and development loans are to help finance the cost of fixed assets and working capital directly or through guaranteed loans from private lending institutions. c. Title I I I This is to assist in the planning of economj~ development programs. d. Title IX - Areas Impacted by structural dislocations or changes in the local economy can qual ify for adjustment assistance and special economic development. State Funding Financial as~istance from the state that comes as a result of enabling legislation will be discussed in the local funding section, as the municipality is r-esponsible for the implementation of such programs. The Florida Legislature in 1980, passed three major- pieces of legislation addressing community r-evitalization. All of these laws are not effective. ,) Tax Cr-edits for New Jobs (Chapter 80-247) - This creates an economic revital ization job creation credit against the cor-par-ate income tax to businesses which employ residents of blighted areas. The credit is equal to 25% of wages paid up to $'500 a month for one year. 2) Tax Credit for New or Expanded Businesses (Chapter 80-248) - New businesses or- expansion of existing businesses located in slum or bl ighted areas can receive an economic revltal'zation tax incentive ~redit against tne corporate Income tax. The amount of allowable credit is determined by the ad valorem taxed paid on expansion-related property by an expanded business. 3) Tax Credit for Contribution to Community Development Projects (Chapter 80-249) - The Community Improvement Act of 1980 Is included in this bill and provides incentives for private corporations to participate in revitalization, projects undertaken by redevelopment organizations. It established a procedure through whiCh businesses may receive a tax credit of 50% of their contributions to eligible community development projects. There is an annual limit of $200,000 with a program cap of $3 million. Local Funding Through state enabling legislation. Boynton authority to utilize financIal tools such as financing. industrial development revenue bonds bonds. Beach has the tax increment and revenue ,) Tax Increment Financing - Tax increment financing as a tool for redevelopment is gaining in popularity. the Community Redevelopment Act of 1969 was amended on July 1. 1977 to include provisions for tax increment financing. 2) Industrial Development Revenue Bonds (IRB's) Industrial Development Revenue Bonds are tax exempt bonds Issued by counties and cities or their agencies to provide funds for pur-poses of buying land or constructing buildings or faci I it'es for manufacturing. The categories of projects eligible for IRBls were amended on July 1. 1980 by Florida House Bill 1572 to include commer.:ial projects. Typi.;ally the interest r-ate on an lOB would be 2 to 3% less than the conventional commer.:ial mortgage rate. t"'_,,? ~evenue Bonds - ~e/e~~e J],js are a type of muni~i~al JO~: ..;\:)se oo]igatians are ;J3)"3ole from revenues derived from tJl1 s. charges, user Fees or rents that are collected fl".J;':1 t'lose citizens ...no ..Jse a particular municipal servit:e or faci 1 ity. the aeject ve is to recover the costs Jf financing construction fJr a particular faci I ity or service. The interest costs and marKetabi 1 ity of revenue bonds Jarl ..idely. The bond mar~et 1$ usually more receptive to revenue bonds for faci 1 ities t~at are subject to mandatory use )~L as ....ater. se\ot'er, e1ectricitl or gas. !jses of a non-mandator, nature such as recreational purposes generally require higne' interest costs. ENCOURAGING NEW DEVELOPMENT The major task. of the eRA is to encourage new Investment, In the form of new construction, renovation, and inte~sified use of existing faci 1 ities. and thus strengthen the economic base, improve the physical characteristics. and expand activities in the downtown. Two major ways for the CRA to achieve Its task are to solicit new development and tenants and to encourage physical improvements and increased use of existing faci lities. Soliciting ~ Oevelo()ment The following criteria should be considered in determining what kinds ~f developments should be sought, ,) The development should be economically viable in a downtown location. 2) The development should contribute to a diverse and health~ economic base. 3) Structures should be pedestrian-oriented along the Major Pedestrian Systea and related to the existing or planned character of the surrounding area rather than isolated struc- tures. 4) The development should attract people to the downtown. S) Projects able to preserve and reuse significant older buildings should be encouraged. To carry out its task, the CRA must play an active role in soliciting and facilitating development. This includes acting as an advocate for selected projects at local. state. and possibly national levels. The eRA Is uniquely positioned and empowered to seek and advocate the downtown location of projects that further the goals of downtown redevelopment. ~ S~onsored Development For projects that the CRA sponsors, certain design considerations should be established. They should include pedestrian orientation, signage, park.ing and compatibility with the surrounding ~rea. Broad guidelines should be imposed beforehand and considered in the review of development proposals. Certain restrictions could be included as restrictive covenants in the sale or lease of land, where appropriate. - -... ~. Designated Parcels Severai major projects have been s)ec,' c all y r e co mm end e Cl ," t.1 e ;J r e c e din 9 5 e c t ion 0 f t his p I an, ::; ~ : sites I'tave been identified. The eRA, should. establish proce- dures and terms for implementing the three major deve\opme~t projects proposed, seek the approval of necessary ane acquisition and disposal of City o'toined land in inventory " necessary, and active1'( solicit developers or tenants for t"le project. Some projects depend on the initiative of the eRA to mar~et the project and activel f seek proposals. In other projects the C~A is in a unique oosition to consider the impact of the facility on the dO\ot'ntown. It should provide advice anc assistance to ensure that the project is developed in a ~ay t~at maximizes its impact on redevelopment of the dO'tointown, B. Undesignated Parcels The eRA should monitor development opportunities and actively sol icit and encourage appropriate developments. The eRA should respond to requests for assistance by helping identify sites and provide information about parcel o'toinership, building codes and other restric- tions, the permitting process, and the availability of financing locally and else'toihere. In case of a particularly significant and appropriate development opportunity, the eRA should consider amendment of the plan to allow for land acquisition or other forms Qf pub lie ass i s tan c e to f a c i 1 ita t e the de vel 0 p me 1"1 t , : f necessary. The eRA should explore the opportunities and appropriate procedures and terms for lease or sale of air rights on city- O'toined parcels. Selection of development proposals using air rights should be in accordance \ot'ith the land use proposals. goals and objectives, and development criteria of this plan, ENCOURAGING COMMUNITY REHABILITATION There are a variety of financing mechanisms available to the eRA for implementing a comprehensive rehabi litation program by using local, state and federal funds. The programs established herein must be in the form of city/property owner participation to yield the desired results. In addition to the improvement loan programs herein, the municipal ity can further enhance its position by creating incentive "pUblic" improvement programs in the form of sidewalk, street lighting and landscaping improvements including signage and coordinated architectural review which will further enhance the redevelopment process. The key, is to concentrate. on an area by area basis. as opposed to scatte~ing loan incentives throughout the downtown area. By concentrating loan programs a visual impact will be established which will encourage a rippl ing effect off of that specific blOCK rehabil itation program which will further encourage reinvestment in the downtown area. As you can see, the rippling effect begins to develop momentum which creates the positive market place which causes the investor, developer and property owner to Invest in rehabi lltation and new construction In the area. The four basic pro gram s a va i 1 a b 1 ear e as f 0 J low s a 1) A guarantee for convent ional improvement loans made by banks willing to provide reduced interest rates in the area in which the bank obviously has as its primary target loan area. 2) A principal subsidy at present value (based on percentage o f p r i n c i pallo a n am 0 un t w hie her eat e s are d uc t ion 0 f the effective interest rate on the loan) and/or 3) An interest subsidy based on some percentage below a prime rate. 4) Revolving loan fund for direct loans with variable interest rates depending upon the persons ability to pay (guidelines to be established). All of these programs require a great deal of coordination and must be implemented with the same vigor whiCh the primary community redevelopment agency target area will be approached. In terms of sources of funds to facilitate the already outlined improvement programs the following funding sources can potentially be availablea tax increment financing trust fund, local and federal loan guarantee subsidy programs as well as a tax credit program pursuant to Chapter 80-249 Laws of Florida (1980) which will allow for the state corporate tax credit to become an incentive for private corporation contribution to the aforementioned revolving loan fund and/or interest subsidy program. ""_f'\~ -:-'1e :RA mu~t imme,i3te~'/ devel'Jp a pri"ritJ' ':)fJ~~:i< ;e1evelopment withi"" t',:e j~wnto!Jn a~ea. Th1~ will incl.uje s p e <.e :. : y i n g ani nit i a 1 " "1 ') del" b 1 " c kwh 1 chi n " u 1" 0 pin i 'J n s h 0 .... : :: be tne "old town" r-etai: bl'J<.ek ~hich 'ia3 the necessary ele'T1e"ts for- a 3uc<.eessf:.Jl joi"\t ve"t:..;;oe het\oleen the city al"ld the pr~vate building "wners/r-etail s~op ':)wners. 3tep~ for implementing t~:.s 'T1':)del block pr~gram are as roll"ws: 1) The individual land "wner-s/mer-chants should be polled .~ determine thei:- l"\terest 1"\ the above program (the "1er-cr.a"ts Ass"c. should be used to coordinate this effort). 2) ;he eRA must c"ordinate \oIith the city administration determine any available federal/revenue sharing or other grant programs available immediately (possibly through the county community development dept). This money would be used to match private guarantees for funds to be expended for the subject street, sidewalk, landscaping, lighting, street furniture, etc. improvement program. 3) The municipality must coordinate the front end financing for such a program. The individual property owners would have the opportunity "r paying their rair share in a cash lump sum payment or making payments on a r-egular basis as determlned through a guarantee supported by a lien on the subject property, until such time as all payments are made. 4) The eRA through the local merchants assoc. should devel~p a petiti~n of inte~t to be exectued by all property ow~e~s (understanding 51~ ownerShip appr~val is all that .5 necessary) . The eRA must ~ove to establish a revolving loan fund ~n conjunction ~ith conventional local financing and TIr Trust fund monies to effectuate the rehabilitiation or the building facades (interiors where appropriate) along the subject redevelopment "model" bloc\<. The comprehensive approach required for the block by block restoration or commercial establishments must be ultimately coordinated by an association, made up of the representative property owners, which obviously creates an incentive for a successful program. All in all, the joint venture between city and the owners will tend to insure the greatest opportunity for redevelopment success. COMMUNITY DESIGN AND REVIEW PROCEDURES The formutation of design guidel ines is recommended to ensure that redevelopment wi I I be carried out in a manner consistent with CRA plan objectives. Different guidelines ~ill apply to specific areas, including. property fronting the major corridors entering the downtown (U.S. l, Boynton Beach Blvd., and East Ocean Avenue), and the eight different land-use classifications in the Downtown Center. Oistinctive design guidelines for these specific areas \ot'i11 create an image consistent with the dominant uses, create contrast bet~een primary retail nodes and other more general commercial/office areas, improve the quality of the pedestrian environment, and provide a COhesive downtown Identity. In order to establish design continuity the agency should develop guidelines that integrate the public and private sector functionally and visually. Roadways and walkways should have consistant detailing and design that provides a specific character to the community. This can be in the form of colored materials and textured surfaces that repeat a theme throughout the community. Suggested alternative details should be provided to the private sector to implement designs compatible to the public sector overall character. Signage and street furniture should also be designed to establish Boynton Beach as a special place. Landscaping is perhaps the most important element, since it can be the most dominant visual element that ties the community together. A predesigned variety of plant material and trees would blend a specific feel ing within each type of street scene. More prominant street intersections and pedestrian ....ays should have distinctive solutions. Special monuments and artwork should also be planned into the overall scheme to provide special visual interest and encourage other property improvements to incorporate art work into the overall plans. In addition, guidel ines should address setbacks, height. ground floor character and other architectural elements. A specific architectural vernacular should not be perscribedJ however, all new improvements should be desIgned to be unique to Boynton Beach. Traditional or contemporary design solutIons can be incorporated into an overall community design. Repetition of certain colors and materials can lend a thread of visual continuity throughout the community such as barrel. tile. brick pavers, earth tone colors. or white window frames. The guidel ines can also include performance standards control ling noise, hours of operation, desired traffic and parking patterns. adequate sunl ight, min. plaza space, etc... ~2e :,.., "J,der to propel'"ly ~~flect j".......t"..n Center objectives desig'" guidelines should be a~"~ted after the adoption of the commu~itf ~edevelopment Plan dna :~e 3d0~ti"n of a revised and expanded :3D Jistrict ordinance. Revie.. procedu,es need t:; ,::>e ""rmulated tCl ensure that prClJects meet design guideli'1es. .l, '1umber of alternatives exist :... establishing a per~ane.,t ~evleloo' boa,d includi,.,g use of cur"'e'1t city staff members. CRA "'ep,esentatives, and/or voluntary "J~ appointed private citizens. :t is recommended that a Developme'1t Revieloo' Board (DRB) be established and serve in an advis')~:i capacity for all prClJects l')cated i.., the Downtown Center. >1e DRB ..ould be intimately familiar ..ith the Community Redevelopment Plan, the CaD ordinance and Design Guidelines for the Do..t')w" Center. The ORB ..ould essentially combine the functions of the City's Community Appearance Board and Planning and Zoning Board, In order to perform its function competently and effectively the ORB should include highly qualified design professionals in the fields of architecture, landscape architecture, and graphic design. E"forcement mechanisms for design guidelines must not only include adoption through the use of overlay districts, and a ~eview board ..ith established procedures, but must include municipal budgeting for city staff to conduct periodic on-site inspections. This will help guarantee continued conformity years later to the originally approved design and construction, especially for easily changed elements, such as landscape buffer I requirements. DOWNTOWN CENTER DEVELOPMENT REGULATION PROCEDURES Subsequent to the concurrent adoption of this Redevelopment Plan and appropriate amendments to the City's Comprehensive Plan the city must establish an effective procedure for revie..ing and approvi~g development in the Downto..n Center. It is recommended that the fo110..ing actions be officially and concurrently taken as soon after the adoption of the Redevelopment Plan as possible: 1) Adopt a revised and expanded CBD ordinance regulating development in the Downtown Center. 2) Rezone all lands lying ..ithin the limits of the Do..nto..~ Center to CBD. 3) Adopt a _set ':If Oesig~ guidelines and standards r",.. development in the Do..nto..n Center. 4) Reconsider the current development review process as it will relate to CBD development in order to effectively i'l1plement CaD design guidelines and development standards. G-30 5 ) Lift the building mor-atorium Properties outside the DO\olntown from the moratorium at the Redevelopment Plan. 'f., r the Do::> w n tow nee n t e r . Center should be released time of adoption of the Appendix H ::::::'.,;:,C:: :;0. K;,;3 -\ ~ AN CR::~:';~CE: Of THE CIty Of' BOYNTml SEACH, FLORtDA ;'PPOINTI!:C THE ~E~!E:RS Of THE ctTY'S CO:~:I: 7Y ?E:'::VF.LOP~E~T AGE:!':CY IN ACCO?SANCE '"rt7H FLORIDA STATUTE: 5163.356' E~L~ERATI~G TP.EIR TE~~S OF OFF:C~, A??Ot:1Tl:-lG A CHAIRlIAN A~D '.':C:S-:HA!?..'"'.AN; PROVIDINC A RE?:,U:::C CU,USE; SAVt~GS CLAUSE; A:;',:Ft:CTIVl: DATE AND FOR O'i'HER PUR?CSF:S r~l ACCORDANCr:: \oitTH FLORIDA StAT~7E )163.356 l 1 WMS~AS. by Resol~:ion, a Community Redeveloprnenc Agency has ~een created in the CL:y of Boynton Beach, Florida. in accordance with Florida Statute 5163.356. 1 \ffi~REAS. Florida Statute 5163.356 requires chat the City Council by Ordin~nce ~ppoint the members of said Co~~unity Redevelop~ent Agency. d NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL or TllE CITY OF' BOYNTON BEACH, FLORIDA: 1 -1 Section 1. The Following ~embers are appointed to the Board of Commissioners of the Community Redevelopment Agency as follo\~s: I H. Dale Hatc~ For a Period of 1 Year 1... ~on Combs For a. Jeriod of 2 Years Oo::a ld :.tcl<or,e For a Period of 3 Years S..T.t;e 1 :;cheiner For a Period of 4 Years H~nry ":lank" Thon,,",son For a Period of 4 Years All ot. the above terms will be effective as of ehe date of the last o??oint:lent. All appointments after the fint, a. identified Above, will be for a period of four (4) years. 1 j I Section 2. Henry "Hank" Tholllps:)" is hereby designated a. Chairman for a period of one (1) year and J Sa:,,:,:uel .Sc:::einer, is hereby , J designated as Vice Chairman for a ?eriod of one (1) year. Seccion 3. All ordinances or pares of ordin3nees in conflict herewith be and the same are hereby repeated. Section 4. Should any section or provision of this ordinance or any portion chereof. any ~arJgrAph. sentence or ....ord be upclared by a court of COln;atent jurisdiction to be inv~lid, $uch decision s~all not affect the validity of the I J \ , :2~J~-~e~ ~creaf as d :Jar: ~ec:lared co be in\3.~_~ --' . e __ "a:: :~erecf ~:ncr :h~n :he SeC:Clen S. Tn13 :r~l~J~:e shal~ jecc~e cf:ecClve ?:?s: ~=:A:::;~ :~.:.s 1-~eci3cely upon ics ?3Ssage a: scc~nd :~3di~g. -:ay of " q ~ ~ ,"" ...... S::"::8~;u, FI;;AL RE:~::~:~ o~ //;/ , ~:S:: AT7EST: d:~t:-:K 1Zj/-t' Cor? Seal ~ ~-'" ud ?/7{ I./P day anc ?ASSAGE :hlS ~~4:0'/7_~ ' ce, ayer ~~~~~ COUlfCl~oer V ;' 1eU"N/ /k).~M CotmCl I'letnoer .. / oun,~~~~d1.j~ l ~ ,. ~ 1"" . - .1'" .' a 1- c- S /"\"~""""""''' .........t ~ ..., A R~SOLl;7:Q~1 Of THE C:-;Y COU'NCIL OF THE: CIn OF BO~;TO~ BE':'CH, FLC~roA, TO EST,'\QLISH A BOYNTON SEACH CO~_"'.U:; l1"Y REDE:VELOPMENT AGENCY. ~I~RE:AS, the C~ty Council of the City of Boynton Beach, l rlorlda, hereby finds tn3t one or more slum or bliqhted areas ~zis~ in the City of Boynton &each with a need Cor rehaoilitation, co~- ~ servation or rcdevelop~ent or a combination tharao!: and 1 liHEREAS, the City Council of the Cicy of.3oyn~on 3:ach, Florida, finds that it lS necessary in the interest of publie J health, saf~ty. morals or welfare of the residents of the sommunity to ~ddrcss the rehabilitation, conservation or rQdav~lop' 1 ment of one or more slu~ or bliqhted areas within the City: and "~EREAS, the City Council of the City of 9oynton Seach 1 Florida, finds that there is a need for a community redovelopm~nt agency to function in the City, to carry out the purposes of ra- 1 development. NOW, THE:REFORE, BE IT RESOLVEO BY THE CIn COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BOYNTON BEACH, FLORIDA: I Section 1. The City of Boynton Bcach Community R~dQVQlop- ] ment Agency is hereby established as outlined in Florida Statutes Par~ 3. Section 163.356 for the purpose of carrying out rQd~velop- J ment activities for the area(s) in its jurisdiction. and that th~ City ~anager of the City of Boynton Beach is hereby directed to I prepare for City Council consid~ration a description of one or more slua or blighted areas within the City of Boynton Saacn J which consists of, among other things, a substantial numbar of deteriorating structures and conditions which ondanger lite or J property by tire or other causas; faulty lot layout in relation to size; deteriorating storm ~nd s~nitary sorvices, a disproportion J number of police calls: a predominance of inadequate street lay- outs: a high density of po?ulation and overcrowding: and private I \ (1) ~-~ 5~=:-~ j~3~~'JCSt~~~: ~ .~~~~~~ ~:' a ~:;, ~c~rce ~f ~Jc~nc~cs ~n~ ==-~c~=:al st~uct~=es or ~~~~v~~=?2d :and. Section 2. ~~e ::~:' -=~~=l: ~e~~~-~~es tha~ It ~l~:~ at 3 subs,cquent ITlCetln~ 0: :~e ::':./ COUr.::l~, apl?ol:1t. five (5) -e~b~rs to the Boynton 3e3C~ Redevelop~ent ^g~ncy Eor staggered ':.:!~~s. to have those pc-..::l:::'s e~,'.:~erated i,., florlda Statute 1.53.37C to ~e further defined lr. a subsequent resolution. .....1.. PASSED AND ADO?~S: t~lS ~ day of August, 1981. Council Man'l ~ ..a~/~ ;:':'l.lnc1.1- Mcmbe(' U <C t."."..-",,- #' .' A'M' SS1' : Councl.l Xcmber (Cor?_ Seal) ~. ~ ~:: . ~....,. ~/, , . ~--=--... ,,"'" I .. A R~5C~_~:::: OF THE CITY or aOY~TON 3::,,(:; :::~:'';R::;C CER.TAIN AREAS AS BLIGHTED A SLL~ ,;:1.::'; AS ::::!:~ED IN CHAPTER 163. PART ~::. F:"C?,!:'A STATUTES; OECLARWG A NEED FOR ~EH';3[L:TArIO~ or SUCH AR~AS; F!~;Dr :;~ A :iE:=:D fOR A CO:.:xt)NITY REDEVELOPMENT AGE::C':,.;:;:) C::::AT:::G SAro cc~u:aTY RE. DEVt::"OF:!::::7 AGS;;CY; PRO'JIDl~lG FOR AN Err:::::'::: :;;.. r:: ,;::J fOR OT:-!ER PtR?OS::S I '..J~ICR::;"S . the C~t~ C~unc~l of the City of Boyneon Beach, I rlo~ica, hereby finds that one or ~ore slum and blighted areas as defined in Florida Stat~te 163.340 and exist in the Cicy I of Boynton Beach. I~:EREAS, a need for rehabilitation conservation or I redevelop~ent or a co~~~nation thereof is necessary in such areas in the interest 0: ?ublic health safety morals or ~elfare of the residenc3 of Boynton Beach; and I , IffiEREAS, the City Council of the City of Boynton Beach finds it is necessary to create a Community Redevelopment Agency as a public body as p~ovided in Florida Statute, Chapter 163. Part III, Section 163.356; and WHEREAS, the Cicy Council of the City of Boynton Beach I find it necessary to ap?cint a five member Co~unity I I Redevelopment Agency Soard; and \.~EREAS, the Mayor and City Council of the City of Boyneon Beach finds it necessary to designate a Community Development Project, I Nm-l, THER.tFORE, 8E IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BOYNTON BEACH ~1': I Section 1. One or core slum and bli~ht.d areas exist in the City ot Boynton 8each. Section 2. The rehabilitation, conservation and I I r~developmcnt or a combination thereof of $uch area or area. is necessary in the interest of public health safety moral, and \~elf.H'e of the residencs of such County and H\lnicipaUty. Sec:ion 3. The City of Boynton 6c~ch CO~~\Inity Redevelopment Agency is hereby established as ouclincd ~n Ftorid~ St~tutes, Chapter 1&3. Part III, Section 163.356 for I .. the ?u~?ose of carrying out redevelopment ~ctivities for the area(~) in Boynton Beach. I I. - Seccion 4, The 3ov:'1ccn 3each COIT'.r.1UnLty Redevetc;:-e-,: A~ency loIill function under the ?ol.ers outlined in Florida S:a:.;:e, C~a?::er 163, rare lP Section 5, The Cicy Cou:'1cll designaces as a Co~~ni:y Redevelopment Area a seC:lon of c~e Cicy generally fro~ SE 6th Avenue to NE 6th Aven~e betloleen ehe FEe Railro~d, ~;E 3,::' Street, the Intracoastal, SE 6th Street. SE 2nd A'Jenue and Federal Highlolay, more specifically described in Ap?endix A and pictured in Appendix B. Section 6. It is further resolved that the area descri~ed above has: A. A street layoue that is predominately defective and inadequate. B. A lot layout thae is faulty in relation to size, adequacy, accessibility and usefulness. C. An area thae suffers from unsafe and unsanitary conditions. D. An area that. to a significant degree, has deterioration of site and oeher i~provements. E. An area that has diversity of o~ership IoIhich prevents the free alienability oE land. F. An area in which there exists faulty and inadequate street, parking facilities, road~ays and bridges. Section 7. It is further resolved that the pO'Jers of the Community Redevelopment Agency shall be exercised in accord~nee with provisions of Florida Statute, Chapter 163, Part ItI. -2- ~ I See!: ion 8. This ~CSQ~U~~~~ shall beco~e effeccive 111 i~~ediaceli.upon adopci~g. I I ~ I I I I PASSS: ANJ ACC?7S:, ~:-:is ~ '"'1. day of /)~ (; 1952, CITY OF BOYNTON BEACH, FLORIDA BY~~~ t!ayor ( "'-... ~7?f1/fU~ ye ~ayor I I I I I I I ATTEST ~~z/L~ ct~-"\.. eri(/~ Corp. Sea! I I .. I -3- ,~ - I".~&l O.'trrCtiot' The oreo 1nc:luded ""thin the (0110"''19 describ"d bo""d.,.ie.: Co"".ence ..t the 1ntersection of lhe centerHne of SE 2nd hvenue ond the e~st r1qht-of-",..y 11ne of the Tlorl"" &~st Coo~t R..1roAd (TtCRR); thence easterly ~lonq said ccnlerline of S& 2nd ~venue to the eenteeline of US 11 thence northerly 1)0 t feet to the centecline at 5E 2nd Avenue eatended: thence easterly alon9 .aid centerline at SE 2nd Avenue .xtended to the lnt.rs.ctlon ot the cent.eline of SE 'th Steeet; thence north.rly ..10n9 .aid centerline of SE 'th Slecet to the center!in. of Oce..n Avenue (S.~..o~): thenc. .ast.rly alon9 said centerline of Oc.an Avenue to the inters.ction v~tn tn. "'.st r19ht-ot-",.ay line ot the Intracoast.l Wat.rvay; thence northerly .10n9 ...id vest.rly ri9ht-ot-vay line at the Intraco..tel W..terway to the northeast c~rner of Lot ~O, C.wey'. Subdivision ..s recorded in Pl..t look 1. Pa9. )7, otticl.1 R.cord. ot P.l~ aeaen COUntYI thenc. westerly alon9 the noeth line of ..1d Lot 20 and tn. north lin. ot LotS 21. 22 and 23 to tne nortnwest corner ot '.la L..:lt 23: thene. northerly alon9 the e.steely line of S.~. Heerlt. Subdivision .. recorded ln Pl.t look 1. '.ge 'I. Of(ic'A~ Record. of P.1~ I...cn County to tne north line at s.,d Subdlvl..on: tnence ~.sterly .10n9 ,.id noeth line of s. S. Merrlt. Subaivi'lo~ .a,enOed to the .nt.r.ection "'Ith the centerlIne ot 0.5.1; thence continue we.~erly alon9 the north l.no of SlaCk. ) .nd , 0: Aoberts addition as recorded in Plat 800k 1. .aq. Sl. OffiCIal .ecordS of Pal~ leach Cou~ty .atend.a to the c~.t ri9ht-ot-~ay line of the rT.c..; thenc. southerly alon4 ~he ...t ri9ht-of-~.y lino of said rteaK to th. pOInt ot be~.nnin9. 'lua tft. ..r.a bord.red on the north by HE led Avenu., th. east by the florid. t.st Coa.t Rail Road IFtCRS); the soutn by SE 2ftd Avenu.: tno ~est by HEiSt )ed Streot. 'lua the ar.a bord.r.. on 'ho ~Oeth by Ie 2nd Avonuo, the .ast by US '1; th. south by 'E 'Lh Avenu., th. "'.St by t.he nc:u. 'lua lot. 1. % .nd 3 of Ilock %. C!vle Center Subdiviaion a. record.d in .lat look 1%. 'a4e ",Officlal ..corda of ..1_ '.acn COunty and Ilock. 1 ano ~ of SOOort Addition to Town ot 10yn,on SubdLV'$IOn aa rocoede. In 'la' lOOk 1, .aqo Sl. OffiCI.l ..corda of 'aiM leacn County. U_Q I I .. I I R I I I , I I I I I I I L I M_.'10 TO: SAM SCHEINER, VICS CHAIRMAN OF THE BOYNTON BEACH REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY FROM: JO ELLEN LEISINGER LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT, URBAN DESIGN STUDIO DATE: MAY 12, 1983 RE: BOYNTON BEACH RAILROAD: ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS OUR REF. f83B6DPA -- Historically, railroad tracks and their associated depot stations were the heart of many small towns, pumping the life-blood of food, mail, materials, supplies, and people in and out of the town, generating growth and prosperity for the inhabitants serv iced. Commerc ia 1 str ips, i nd us tr ia l serv ice areas and even homes were once located adjacent to and oriented toward railroad tracks, functioning as a focal point of the town's commerce and social life. Unfortunately today, the role of this life-giving arterial system has been taken-over by our major highways such as U.S. '1, caus- ing the city, its buildings, traffic, and people to turn their backs on the railroad tracks while focusing toward the highway instead. With this reversal in attitude and orientation, suddenly, the many environmental impacts caused by proximity to railroad tracks become magnified as negative nuisances. What once provided a focal point of activity and defined neighborhood zones, now dissects the heart of the city into mini districts acting as a psycho- logical, visual, and functional barrier. What once acted as the primary arterial for the movement of goods and people north. and south and generated traffic to and from loading dOCKS, now inhibits modern-day automobile, cyclist, and pe- destrian traffic travelling east and west. ~-Q SAM SCHEINER MAY ~2, 1983 ?AGE 2 What once minimized east - west traffic flow from downtown areas into adjacent residential neighbor- hoods, now inhibits access between the downtown area and these neighborhoods, many changing to a more commercial or light industrial character, and need- ing this access. What once signaled the on-coming train and all of its good-tidings, and added to the lively sounds of downtown during the day, now radiate disturbing loud noises via horns and clattering tracks day and night. What once provided a major visual event to behold, (the daily entrance of the train) and offered the beautiful image of the railroad tracks fading into a natural setting, now provides the eyesore of a weed infested barrier right-of-way. What once offered little danger to the few lightly traveled east - west road crossings, now imposes a safety-hazard to autos, cyclists, and pedestrians alike, due to increased train and human traffic. What once brought materials and goods mainly noo- hazardous to health, now often carries modern-day chemicals etc. hazardous to human heal tho All of these points reflect the changing role of railroads in urban life. It is a universal problem affecting many commun- ities, including Boynton Beach. The question still remains - How can we eliminate or minimize the negative environmental impacts caused by the existence of a railroad corridor passing through the urban core? 00 we attempt to buffer or screen the nuisances, to chang~ operating hours and methods, or even consider remov~ng the railroad as an element in the community? The issue of rall- roads and their impact on the quality of urban life in Boynton Beach and elsewhere is truely a modern day design and planning challenge worthy of further study. Exhibit C-4 Existing Sanitary Collection Sy stem ,-:--, _ J. I , r -==/ ---: ~ .', ----; /, .- I ...'- ~ t==t~ I I ' ~~f L . - """'-- -- --..... ---r .: -'--...I I rl 7-;: I ~ : ;.: \ . I - ~'~I : : -; =I!II = : : ='::-~I \ -----: . ~ ' __ ;" ~ ~...uL./' i I . --- ! fl\ d \ II \ I \ 'I !IIU' \ ,Boynton Beach I j II \ LJ~ Community Redevelopment Area ...J 'J ,..Ii.. ! ~ __-'-'--'-".--IP I , .......- _. - - ,....,- L.-JL. Ifl/~/i"1 \ll\ I' ,..-_~==~.:=..- \ \ \ \ i 0 ..... - ......... -. -- '--- - -_.._~.~ ~ .. I.t -J --.- ,--- .( ~~.,~~.~ --- - - .. t .-. ....t ~ .. f"" '.' /. . /' . , , , I --- ~ --- ~ 1 ~ ---- ..--. ': .r ': Jl " ~ ---' ' I: i i --' ---, r-. l....--.,j . Ir-il i w......J I ,~ '0 I . , I \ \ ii \ I ~ . c " ~' , : : I ---l ; :i \ : .-J . . , it' j '.- J\ JI. ,. -\ I ---1; ,. 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" .. .. z ~r\ \ '\ \ ;~j " , \ '. \ 'I, \ ~~ ~ ! '-\ :. \ ,f .., oc A" . .. . , r '.... awt -.i ': t t ,.....,1 ~- , \ L Boynton Beach community Redevelopment Area '\' ",.- ...... ......... .....--.............. ,. ... ...." ,.__ .._,..._. .._ __ 0... ".- ..-- ..- ...... ' ...-... ...,_. ... --..-........."-.--- ~. ~. _O_..__C..'..- ,-- . .OW aOO - .......... ....... .--..-... 1 BOYNTON BEACH REDEVELOPMENT PLAN TRANSPORTATION SECTION Existing Conditions The redevelopment area is primarily served by two main corridors; U.S. 1 which traverses north/south through the study area and; Boynton West/N.E. 2nd Avenue which traverses east/west through the study area. Access to the beach area is provided currently by Ocean Avenuet which extends from Seacrest Boulevard to SR AlA. Both U.S. 1 and Boynton West Road are 4-1ane divided facilities. Ocean Avenue is 4-1ane divided between U.S. 1 and SR AlA with an existing 2-lane bridge structure over the Intracoastal Waterway. All other facilities within the study area are 2-lane. Seacrest Boulevard, a north/south facility, is immediately outside the study area and was recently widened to 4-lane divided. Access to 1-95 is provided at Boynton West Road approximatley one mile from the center of the study area. Usage Characteristics Traffic counts for the study area were compiled for years 1976 through 1982. The average daily traffic for each of the count stations were evaluated to determine growth trends within the area. Traffic counts were also obtained for several count stations which are immedi- ately outside the study area but which reflect the traffic flow within the immediate vicinity. A comparison between the 1980 average daily traf- I fice (ADT) and the 1982 ADT shows that for the redevelopment area traffic has decreased at a rate of approximately 6% per year. This reduction in traffic could be caused by several factors. One factor that should C-14 be considered is the growth that ;s occurring outside the study area .. in the area of Woolbright and U.S. 1, and the rapid growth which is occurring west of 1-95. The growth in retail. shopping facilities in areas outside of the study area may also be contributing to a reduc- tion in traffic. Programmed Improvements The Transportation Improvement Program by the Metropolitan Planning Organization of Palm Beach County does not provide any major improvements to the street system within the Boynton Redevelopment Area other than the extension of Boynton West Road/N.E. 2 Avenue east of U.S. 1 across the Intracoastal Waterway to SR AlA. This improvement will replace the old 2-lane bridge structure on Ocean Avenue and provide a 4-lane divided roadway with direct access to 1-95 from SR AlA. Right-of-Way U.S. 1 currently functions as a 4-lane divided facility with parking provided on both sides of the roadway. This facility could, in the long range, be restriped to 6-lane divided with the right-of-way and pavement currently provided for this roadway. This expansion would result in the elimination of allan-street parking on U.S. 1. There remains certain deficiencies in right-of-way and roadways within the redevelop- ment area, one of which is N.E. 4 Street north of Boynton West Road which provides access to commercial areas immediately west of U.S. 1. The right-of-way for the street system within the study area varies greatly and ranges from 20' to go'. Access across the FEe Railroad is C-1~ provided at several locations. Each crossing should be upgraded to imprmve traffic flow. This is true for the crossing at N.E. 6 Avenue which needs to be upgraded and also realigned. Transit Service Transit is provided by the Palm Beach County Transportation Authority by routes 9 and lS. Route 9 travels from Boynton West Road east to U.S. 1, south to Ocean Avenue and serves SR AlA. Route 15 travels along U.S. 1 to N.E. 2 Avenue, west to Seacrest Boulevard and north to N.E. 22 Avenue. Both routes have one hour headways. C-16' fOYHTOH BEACH REDEVELOPftEHJ PLAN TRAHSPORTlOH Exhibit C-8 nAY J6,l90J TRAffIC COUNT DATA ------------------ ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ STATION DES 16N J916 1911 19?8 1979 1980 1981 1982 I OROWTH 6ROl/TH ANNUAL . ROADIIAY SrATlON LOCATION TYPE ADt ADf ADT ADT ADT ADr ADr J971-82 19aO-82 6RO&ITH --------------------------------------.---~----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 5201-2 BOYNtON WEsr RD. II Of 1-95 fLD 12112 12522 17150 N.A. 19218 21653 20959 40.25 8.02 8.1l5 5301-2 BOYNTON WEST RD. E OF 1-95 fLD lnu J8121 Im21 N.A. 19816 21782 265GB 11.64 ~.n 2.,B . 58~7-2 BOYNTOH WEST RD. E Of SEACREsr 4lD 0629 11562 12883 H.A. 20045 17938 11394 33.53 -15.24 6.71 . 5801-1 OCEAN AVEHUE W OF INrRACOAsrAl 4l 6602 6123 6300 M.A. 5980 ~430 5770 -16.52 -3.64 -3.30 . 5304-1 US -I 5 Of BOYNrON CANAL "4LD 21191 12908 13 725 H.A. 1814,) . l-tn~ 16020 19.0 -Ii.:.?) J.89 . 5600- 2 SE~CREST BLVD S OF iOYNTDN WEST 4LD 7699 6609 8320 N.A. 12082 109S1 10919 39.47 -IO.llS 1.89 5208-1 '-95 5 Of BOYNTON WEsr ill E1PY 4062f 47224 46290 ,U. 61140 69130 75210 37.21 17.33 1.44 4222-1 1-95 II OF BOVllJOH NEST . 6l ElPY 34023 46851 46200 II.A. 69010 62580 71500 36.96 10.88 7.39 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ . . . REDEVElDPnENT A~EA 6RONTH 31802 56241 50103 24.55 -12.26 4.91 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ o I ..... ~ ~!t~IORX;DU>1 TO: Hen ry Sko kOh'5 k i Urban De~ign Studio " FRml: H9\Vard L. Searcy, P.E. SUBJECT: Boynton Beach ~e-de~elonMent Area. 23 Acre ~angro~e Co~nunlty At your request, I ha~e reviewed the biological inventory prepared by a team from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Florida Departnent of EnvironMental Re~ulation, City of Boynton Beach and Palm Beach County Health Deoart~ent. Based on that survey, it is evident that the mangrove community is under the jurisdiction of the Corps of Engineers and the Florida Department of Environmental Regulation and therefore, any proposed dredge or fill activity in this aTea would require a permit from both the Corps of Engineers and the Florida Department of EnvironMental Regulation. Based on current policies of those departments. the following are the constraints' to the use of this area: 1. Destruction of existing mangrove communities by dredging or filling, if re~uired to accomplish the purpose of the comprehensive plan, should be very limited. 2. Any destruction of mangrove for dred~ing and filling operation should be clearly in the public interest, resulting in a substantial public benefit. Some private facility such as a restaurant marina operation 01' other commercial enterprises might be allowed: however. the overall program must be one which clearly establishes a benefit to the public. C-19 = Analysis By Study Areas = =- EI"~III-'a",ny C2: Existing Land Use ........, UOfllc.. Gj'COm"'.'CII' S."le.. Duo,.,. gAV\O 'I'.' , ,.,.,le.. IIlnG~a\llal .------ R1AA ...~.............~..._.........,............................................., = p~bncl Q~..I-p....nc o Recrutlon , '.rka lmTranloo,tatlon, Con"....nlullon, Utllltl.. PIJ ~vacant B~nGlne BvaCI"t '100' o v.unt Lan" o "."9'0". L .. . , r l l . Jr I I , R3 .. ... ,. . Study Areas Exhibit D-1 Boynton Beach Community Redevelopment l' Area VI'tl_ ....... ................ yr,........ ..........-.. a;;:ti;S;- .............. ...... . ..........._ 0... "'141 ~ ~ .-- ............. . ............ ...,....... .,... o 100 JOO ....... '0 ...... . ...... . c,..MI .......... . .............. e.. . ....... ............ .00 ....,. ... ....,. c_._.__ ,.......... 0-1 STUDY AREA ANALYSIS The Community Redevelopment Area ....as disaggregated into 8 Study Areas In order to~ 1) more intimately evaluate the various components of the area, and 2) identify strengths and ....eaknesses ....hlch would be used to establish the boundaries of the Downtown Center, The delineation of the 8 Study Areas was based primarily on ,) major physical barriers, I.e., major roads and the existing railroad, 2) general property configuration, and 3) existing zoning and use patterns The analysis included. ,) the gathering of background data such as land areas, existing zoning, perimeter conditions and the identifica- tion of significant structures, If any, 2) observations regarding the unique characteristics of the Study Area and its strengths and weaknesses, 3) goal statements responding to local (study area and abutting properties) needs and concerns suggested In the observation statements, 4) public policy and strategy recommendations which begin to establish a direction for an overall community redevelop- ment program, The analysis by Study Areas Is included tn an Inventory and Analysis Supplement to the Community Redevelopment Plan, The following, however, represents a summary of all the background data gathered for each Study Area. 0-2 SUMMARY OF STUDY AREA DATA A. BACKGROUND DATA. Gross Land Areal Land Area in R.O.~. IS: Net Useable Land Areal l8 I .68 45.06 " 1.88 acres* ac res acres (+ 25.17 marsh & \ot'ater in area 7 & 8) Downtown Net Useable Areal 63 .8 acres Existing Zoning - C 2 I 5 . 5 ac res C 3 I 72 .0 ac res C 4 . 20 . 8 ac res I'll I 5 . 5 ac res P U . R31 REel R I A . , . 28 ac res 26.49 acres 4 . 05 ac res 1 . 00 ac res TOTALI , 36 . 62 ac res # of Platted Lotsl 298 # of Parcels Under Single Ownership. 250 # of Property Owner's. 206 Average Parcel Size. Smallest Parcel. Largest Parcel. 19,480 s.f. 1.300 s.t. 779.724 s.t. ( . 4 5 ac. ) ( , 03 ac.) ( 1 7 . 90 ac.) Perimeter Conditions. North. Boynton Canal, Commercial, Residential South. Residential East. Intra-Coastal Waterway, Residential West. Residential Significant/Unique Architectural Landmarks/Structuresl - Southern Bell - Church of Christ - Flagship Bank - Boynton Beach Plaza - St. Mark's Catholic Church and School - Florida Coast Bank - First Financial Plaza - Ocean Plaza ------~---------------------------------------------------------- * Calculated to include 50% of all R.O.~.'s along the boundary of a Study Area. 0-3 Once the analysis by Study Areas was complete an overall assessment of opportunities and general problem areas was made. This assessment incorporated all of the Study Area observations and together- with the Study Area Goals, established the basis for drafting of recommended goals and objectives whIch appear In the following section. Individual Study Area Publ ic Policy and Strategy Recommendations ....ere incorporated into both the Redevelopment Plan recommendations and implementation strategies. SUMMARY OF PROBLEMS AND OPPORTUNITIES GENERAL OPPORTUNITIES Waterfront amenity to help create an Image, and draw development and people downtown Land configuration that can provide a cohesive Identity for a downtown. Distinguishable districts within the communIty redevelopment area "Soft" areas (vacant land/buildings, inappropriate land uses) Land assemblage potential where ownership is less fragmented, and large par~els are under single ownership Adequate perimeter open spaces exIst permitting buffer landscape requirements to be incorporated into controls for new development Some flexibility in directing zoning/land use patterns Direct linkage to 1-95 and the island to the east by Boynton Beach Blvd. bridge planned by the Florida O.O.T. Some existing development will be in harmony with redevelop- ment goals Some flexibility In altering the circulation system, despite the major north-south orientation caused by the railroad and U.S. , Many locations to provide parking for future development A relatively large population with access to the downtown area A relatively affluent elderly population within the potential market area A rapidly growing population A large regional economy, enabling an opportunity to capture and enhance existing markets A major employer, Motorola, locating In the area which wIll help generate demand for housing and other consumer goods 0-4 GENERAL PROBLEM AREAS POOR DOWNTOWN IMAGE/ENVIRONMENTAL QUALIT! - Lack of a positive and memorable image that says "This is Boynton Beach" Little indication one is approaching a downtown along major entry corridors Lack of an identifiable downtown Lack of public amenities in key places to encourage pedestrian to use the downtown Deteriorating facades and little continuity in design or physical enclosure of street corridors. Deteriorating_ redundant and inconsistent slgnage Lack of landscaping to soften the hardscape Unsightly parking creating large open gaps along street frontages. especially In the narrow parcels along U.S. , Noise and fumes from U.S. 1 traffic Noise and the unsightly Image of the Railroad which cuts through the entire west side of the redevelopment area CIRCULATION Low quality pedestrian circulation Uncomfortable biking corridors U.S. 1 divides the community redevelopment area down the middle and the wide corridor paving discourages east-west pedestrian movement Railroad limits east-west traffic flow. limits traffic pattern f 1 ex i b I 1 i t Y Awkward intersections In relation to railroad crossings (N.E. 6th Avenue. and Boynton Beach Blvd. crossing from S.E. 4th Street to Railroad Avenue) Pending change in bridge access to the east from East Ocean Avenue. to Boynton Beach Blvd. ....ill cause changing circula- tion and land-use patterns Potential parking shortages possible as the downtown develops Increased traffic along U.S. 1 and Boynton Beach Blvd. (especially at their i-ntersection) probable as development occurs. 0-5 GENERAL PROBLEM ARtAS - continued IMPACTS ON ADJACENT RESIDENTIAL NEIGHBORHOODS (EXISTING/PROPOSED) FEC rai 1 road adjacency Residential adjacency to existing and proposed commercial areas Parking and service/goods movement for commercial uses Potential increase In building heights Non-conforming uses Through traffic on residential streets Oeterioratlon at neighborhood edges LAND USE -- Lack of pUblic exposure and use of the prime existing natural amenity; the waterfront Lack of major tourist lodging and public assemblage faclll~ ties located in or near the downtown area (existing motels are those types which have been dropping out of the market) Existing land uses that discourage pedestrian traffic . Store ownership transition and vacancy hurts community Image land value, and tax base High intensity. C4 zoned commercial uses are generally incon- sistent with desired marketing images conducive to Downtown Center development (applies to Study Areas 3t~t6 and 7) Deterioration of some of the existing residential areas Lack of a strong retail trade and service sector that can act as a shopping destination, take advantage of the regional economy, and compete with suburban shopping centers Weak market areas near the downtown district Lack of mixed use/residential developments to draw people do....ntown to ....ork, shop, and live 0-6 := Goals and Objectives E GOALS AND OBJECTIVES FOR THE COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AREA OVERALL GOlLS T~ establish the C~mmu~ity Redevelopment Area as an identifiable unified downtown distri~t that acts as a rocal p~int r~r the community, attracts development interests, encourages a consumer destination center, and ensures a repetitive tourist trade by: ,) Providing incentives to stimulate economic development. 2) Improving physical characteristics. 3) Increasing downt~wn activities (day and night). 4) Increasing visibility of the new Downtown through promotio~. ENVIRONMENT/IDENTITY To create an attractive. safe, and comfortable environment that provides a positive and memorable identity. ,) Enhance the visual attractiveness of the Redevelopment Area by establishing programs with enforcement mechanisms for streetscape improvements, architectural continuity, and coordinated commercial signage along the major corridors entering the Downtown Center including: U.S.-', Boynton Beach Blvd., and East Ocean Avenue. 2) Provide a cohesive downtown image identifiable from both vehicular and pedestrian vantage points. 3 ) Use. a w ate r f t" 0 n tor i e n tat ion i n ere a tin g a u n i que retail/entertainment environment. 4) Provide visual access to the waterfront from Boynton Beach Blvd. 5) Create an environment that is conducive t~ activities during the day and at night. 6) Conduct special events to draw the community into the downtown. 7) Encourage people to linger and spend time downt~wn rather than drive through without stopping. 8) Provide active and intimate pedestrian outdoor spaces (plazas, waterfront walks, Shopping arcades, eafe"s) with pedestrian scaled amenities (street furniture, lighting, shade trees. canopy features). E-1 GOALS AND OBJECTIVES FOR THE COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AREA 9) Include bDth public and private open space. 10) Provide for perpetual public use of newly created waterfront areas associated with the mangroves, while allowing waterfront access by private enterprises. 11) Preserve the natural tree cover that exists within the redevelopment area. 12) Eliminate blighted and dilapidated structures and improve the appearance of vacant lots. 13) Protect the community from the negative impacts (visual and audible) associated with the F.E.C. railroad. (See Appendix for detailed consideration of railroad impacts). LAND USE To provide a framework in which the Redevelopment Area will evolve into a more dynamic and economically-active urban center. 1) Haintain harmony between existing development (to remain in the Redevelopment Area) and proposed development, both aesthetically and functionally. 2) Ensure viabill.ty of Ocean Avenue commercial use once the bridge 15 relocated. 3) Exercise environmental sensitivity in developing lands associated with the mangroves. 4) Encourage a land-use mix which supports a diversified economic base. . 5) Encourage mixed-use development in the Downtown Center, in- clUding office, retail, service, financial, restaurant, entertainment, lodging and residential uses. 6) Expand the residential section of the downtown by facilitating new construction and/or rehabilitating existing structures for adaptive re-use. 7) Provide housing for the elderly and a range of income levels in the downtown area. 8) Consolidate .and strengthen existing viable commercial and industrial districts. 9) Capture a share of the specialty retail and restaurant trade (and other consumer trade as possible) in the Palm Beach County market area. 10) Encourage the location of future civic facilities downtown. 11) Enhance the Clty~s share of the tourist trade. .. E-2 GOALS AND OBJECTIVES FOR THE COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AREA 12) Create a -downtown that is economically viable even during off-season, non-tourist months. 13) Encourage land uses that ....i 1 1 Increase employment and the tax base. 14) Strive to increase the intensity of development ....ithin the Downtown Center. 15) The redevelopment agency should solicit and act as an advocate for development projects that further the dO\ot'ntown goals by assisting in identification of sites. land assemblage, acquisition of permits. and appropriate financing. 16) Solicit a major redevelopment project that will serve as the catalyst. for downtown revitili%atlon. 17) Emphasl%e development east of U.S. 1 during initial redevelopment phases that can use the waterfront amenity to capture development interests and wi 11 act as a catalyst for later development of non-waterfront areas. 18) Emphasize development west of U.S. 1 during later redevelopment phases that will provide daily users of the waterfrontts commercial/entertainment atmosphere creating a symbiotic relationship between areas west and east of U.S. 1. 19) Develop building codes and %onin9 districts that assist in aChieving the downtown goals. CIRCULATION To Improve the function and safety of all circulation systems (vehicular, mass transit, bicycle, pedestrian, marine) that will ensure an integrated transportation system within the downtown. 1) Establish a safe, comfortable and inviting pedestrian circulation system with access to the waterfront. 2) Reduce or eliminate vehicular traffic in those areas designated as major pedestrian areas. 3) Minimize vehicular-pedestrian conflicts. 4) Provide for handicapped individuals in the design of all circulation system elements. 5) Maintain or improve the pUblic transportation system to ensure access to the downtown, 6) Emphasi%e vehicular and pedestrian linkages between the existing Government Center and the downtown. 7} Plan for an integrated system of conveniently located. readi ly accesslb1e. and visible parking to satisfy increasing user demands associated with new downtown development (including short-term, long-term, on-street. off-street, and garage park.ing). ... ~ f'OW - GOALS AND OBJECTIVES FOR THE COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AREA 8) Provide ~dentlflable, visible mid-block entrances to parking lots. 9) Limit median and curb cuts wherever possIble. 10) Encourage parking behind buildings In the Downtown Center to allow architectural facades to front on a pedestrian-scaled street. 11) Design roadway improvements, as necessary, to meet Increased and altered traffic patterns caused by redevelopment (bridge improvements, railroad crossings, pedestrian crossings, traffic signals, R.O.W. widths, I lanes, turning lanes, service loadings, median or curb cuts, etc.). 12) Provide appropriate traffic control devices which are integrated with the design of the redevelopment area and whiCh will Improve traffic accesstbility and internal circulation. 13) Limit, as much as possible. the number of railroad crossings to eliminate required train whistles and concentrate traffic in commercial vs. residential areas. 14) Consider flexibilIty in the percent required parking coverage per parcel (especially for the narrow lots along U.S. 1) In order to maintain street enclosure by minimizing the number of openings between building facades. UTILITY SERVICES To provide effi.cient and adequate utility services (road, water, sewer, power, etc.) to support increased development in the Redevelopment Area. 1) Complete a comprehensive analysis of existing utility facilities servicing the Redevelopment Area to determine each system's capacIty as it relates to Increased land use intensities and proposed projects implied by the redevelop- ment plan. 2) Replace undersized and repair old utility facilities in the redevelopment area. 3) Plan to ultimately install all utlltty facilities underground that are located Inside the Downtown Center. . E-4 ,- GOALS AND OBJECTIVES FOR THE COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AREA N E I G H B 0 RHO 0 0- I H PAC T S To ensure the continued existence of healthy residential neighborhoods within and adjacent to the Redevelopment Area. 1 ) 2 ) Protect and enhance adjacent residential property investments. Require appropriate visual landscaped screens/buffers bet~een proposed commercial/office uses and existing residential properties coordinated with an "Enforcement Program". Prohibit commercial encroachments into healthy residential neighborhoods. Restrict commercial uses (in areas adjacent to residential neighborhoods) to those that minimize Impacts upon the resi- dences (traffic volumes. noise, fumes, rear service and loading, garbage accumulation, storage. building helght~ etc.). Encourage traffic safety entering and exItIng residentIal areas that are adjacent to proposed development. Discourage traffic from travel ing through residential areas to reach uses within the Redevelopment Area. Ensure improved environmental quality as redevelopment occurs adjacent to residential sectors. Provide easy access to proposed redevelopment projects from existing residential neighborhoods so existing residents can participate in using all new public and private amenities. 3 ) 4 ) 5' ) 6 ) 7 ) 8 ) E-5 " F ,. . Plan Description ; I ..-' . ~ ~ P' E",l\lb't ILLUSTRATIVE SITE PLAN The plan In ExhibIt F-l, Is Intended to represent only one possible development scenario to Illustrate how the functional areas might appear In the year 2000. The suggested plan Is consistent with overall redevelopment projections. objectIves, concepts. and strategies recommended for the downtown. This proposed redevelopment plan has been prepared with the assumptIon that the construction of a new 4-lane Boynton Beach Blvd. bridge crossing on the alIgnment of N.E. 2nd Avenue will occur as planned by the State O.O.T. When construction Is completed the existing bridge will be removed. OVER-ALL HARKET STRATEGY The underlyIng purpose of economlc.and market strategies Is to define methods that vlll enhance the advantages that exIst for downtown redevelopment and mitIgate, to the extent possIble, those condItIons which create disadvantages. Based on research of the regional economy and analyzIng the locatlon and condItion of the Boynton Downtown Center and its role In the region. the overall market strategy for the Redevelopment Program should bel To take advantage of strong retail trade and servIce sectors In the regIonal economy and to help establIsh Boynton Beach as a shoppIng destInatIon. Thus, the Redevelopment Plan wIll emphasIze creatIng unIque methods to capture and enhance ~xlstlng local and regional markets. At present, the City does not have any retail commercIal facilitIes that provide regIonal attractIon unless one Includes the marina facIlities located along the Intracoastal In this category. To thIs end, the new mall being constructed to the west will be both a benefIt and a hInderance. It can benefit the City' and downtown by helpIng Boynton Beach establIsh an Identity as a major shoppIng area In the regIon. Therefore, the mall has the potentIal of creatIng spIn-off trade for the downtown distrIct. Of course, the mall creates dIsadvantages 1n that It will generate competItIon for certaIn types of retaIl tenants. partIcularly clothing, Jewelry, and sImIlar specIalty shops. . F-2 I nor d e r tot a k e ad van t a 9 e 0 f th est r 0 n 9 r eta i 1 t r a d e and services industry, ~hich includes consumer goods and services. entertainment, eating and drinking, recreation, and simi lar trade, th~ primary thrust of the Redevelopment Plan should be to create a Downtown Center \ot'ith a unique retail/entertainment environment through a waterfront orientation. This can best be accomplished by pUblic and private sector participation in efforts to enhance existing \ot'aterfront development and to create additional waterfront areas to the north of the future Boynton Beach Boulevard Bridge. To this end, a major redevelopment project should be encouraged in the Downtown Center that wi 11 serve as the catalyst for revi- talization throughout the CRA. Ideally, the project(s) will combine commercial, "esidential, office, tourist lodging and related uses with a ....aterfront Qrientatlon. P"oject .ll!.!. Table F-l Illustrates the magnitude of the proJect(s) that should be expected and encouraged, and upon which implementation efforts should be based. Thus. the following size criteria for retail space, office space and a hotel facility should be used as the market guidelines for undertaking a land assembly program and the basis for negotiating with private developers participating in a land assembly program. For Instance, if a land acquisition program was initiated by the City with an agreed upon buy-down by a developer, (or developers) the land (or parcels of land) should be committed to projects that help achieve the scope of develop- ment indicated in Table F-1. However, the size criteria listed in Table F-l should not be considered as the total amount of new or renovated space intended for the Downtown Center. but rather, the amount of development that can reasonably be expected tOt ,) Be sustained by the market over the next several years. 2) Foster revitalization throughout the eRA. 3) Generate greater market acceptance and demand for commercial and residential uses in the eRA. The anticipated range of hotel rooms illustrated In (100-200) is largely based on the size of existing located in Palm Beach County that cater to conference business tourists and vacation tourists. Table F-1 f ac i lit i e s ac t i 'III tie s , F-2 The s qua ref 00 tag era n 9 e for r eta i 1 ; 0 mm e r ; i a 1 and r e '., tau ran t space is based on the amount of space that is being susta.ned in the downtown Oelray and Lake Worth areas. Based on the figures in Table F-2, iO,OOO square feet of space in the redevelopment pro- j e c t r e pre S e n t S 4. 7 % 0 f the tot aId em and for co mm e r cia 1 r eta i 1 and restaurant space that is proje:ted to be generated by population gro....th in the greater 8oynton Beach area between 1983 and 1990. The projections for building square footage contained in Table F-l are based on the average amount of space per capita countywide using 1982 square footage data and 1980 population data. The earl ier population figures were used to reflect the lag time between demand generated by population ~rowth and when faci 1 ities are actua II y constructed to meet that demand (wh I ch is general 1 y two years). Based on projected population growth of 34,167 in the greter Boynton Beach area, and demand of 50.3 square feet (per capita), demand for 1,713,600 square feet of retail commercial and restaurant space wi 11 be generated in the Greater Boynton Beach area over the seven year period bet....een 1983 and 1990. The range for office space (20.000 to 30,OaO) square feet for the redevelopment project is based on the implicit assumption that the Center City project wi 11 be able to capture from eight to twelve percent of the 256,000 square feet of office space that ....i 11 be generated in the area between 1983 and 1990. TABLE F-1 SIZE RANGE FOR A MAJOR REDEVELOPMENT PROJECT ----------------------------------------------------------------- Hote 1 I 100-200 rooms plus conference and other ancillary uses. Residentiall 100 + un its Commer.::ial R et ail and Restaurants 50,000 to 80,000 square feet Office Spaces 20,000 to 30,000 square feet ----------------------------------------------------------------- F-4 TABLE F-2 PROJECTED DEMAND FOR COMMERCIAL RETAIL AND RESTAURANT SPACE IN THE GREATER BOYNTON BEACH AREA --------------------------------------~---------~------~--------- a Population Growth 1982-1990 b Square Feet Per Capita Projected Demand {S.F.) ----------------------------------------------------------------- Ret a i I Commercial 34,167 x 43.8 1,496,515 - Restaurant 34,167 x 6.5 222,085 - ----------------- ------ --------- TOTAL COMMERCIAL 34,167 x 50.3 1,718.600 - OFFICE SPACE 34.167 x 7.5 256,252 - -------------------------------------------------~---------------- a - Based on Area .Planning Board population projections. the area bounded by Lantana Road, Lateral Canal Atlantic Ocean and the Turnpike to the north, south, west, respectively. Includes 30, the east and b - Based on 1982 countywide square footage (source, Palm Beach County Property Appraiser) and 1980 Population data (source: U.S. Census) ratios. FUTURE LAND USE OUTSIDE THE DOWNTOWN CENTER Exhibit F-2, illustrates proposed land uses for eRA areas surrounding the Downtown Center, The following description wi I I explain these land uses by Study Areas (see Exhibit 0-1). Studx ~ l' The majority of this area contains existing general commercial uses and the only light industrial uses In the eRA, emphazing auto service and re~air functions. These well established and active uses are ideally located, isolated from the Downtown Center by the FEC rai lroad. In terms of recent construction, this area has demonstrated the most activity in the eRA, evidence of the areas economic vitality as a commercial/Industrial center. c_= A. B. C. T~BLE OF CONTENTS r~TRODUCTION - Com9rehensive Plan :onsistency SUMM~RY OF REDEVELOPMENT PLA~ RECOMMENDATIONS ECONOMIC & MARKET OVERVIEW - Introduction------------------------------------------ - Delineation of Study ~reas and Identification of the Downtown Center-------------------------------------- 3 - Economic Assumptions---------------------------------- 5 - Competing Downtown Areas------------------------------ 9 - Historic Population Growth---------------------------- 13 - ~arket Profi1e---------------------------------------- ~5 - Implications for Downtown Boynton--------------------- 18 - Survey of ~arinas in the Boynton Inlet Area----------- 21 - The Trade and Service Sector in Palm Beach County----- 23 - Property Tax Sase------------------------------------- 28 , . EXISTING CONDITIONS - Community Character----------------------------------- 2 - Infrastructure Inventary------------------------------ 6 - Transportation Section-------------------------------- 14 - Mangrove Area----------------------------------------- 19 D. ANALYSIS BY STUDY AREAS - Study Area Analysis----------------------------------- 2 - Summary of Study Area Data---------------------------- 3 - &ummary of Problems and Opportunities----------------- 4 E. GOALS & OBJECTIVES - Overall Goal------------------------------------------ 1 - Environment/Identity---------------------------------- 1 - Land Use--------------------------------------~------- 2 - Circulation------------------------------------------- 3 - Utility Services-------------------------------------- 4 - Neighborhood Impacts---------------------------------- 5 F. PLAN DESCRIPTION - Illustrative Site Plan--------------------~----------- 2 - Over-all Market Strateqy------------------------------ 2 Future Land Use Outside the Downtown Center----------- 5 Future Land Use in the Downtown Center---------------- 8 - Land Use Strategy for the Downtown Center------------- 13 - Major projects proposed-----------~------------------- 13 Circulation--------------~------------~--------------- 14 - Parking System---------------------------------------- 16 - pedestrian and Streetscape Program-------------------- 18 - Open Space System------------------------------------- 23 - Suffer System----------------------------------------- 22 T.1', . ;JL:\~l ~ >.A '?L 2~E~IT;:' ')~ - :~troduct on-----------------------------_____________ - CRA Management--------------------------------________ 1 CRA Coordination------------------------------________ 2 - Comprehensive Planning - Land Development Regulations Code Enforcement - Right of Way Abandonment - Land Acquisition/Assemblage . - Marketing and Promotion . - Public Imorovements-~--------------------------_______ 9 - Water, Sewer, and Drainage Improvements - Electrical Power, Telephone and Natural Gas - Wetland/Waterway Improvements - Alternative Methods of Financing---------------------- 15 - Tax Increment Financing (TIF) - Land Write-Downs - Tax Abatement - Lease or Sale of Real Property - Interest Rate Subsidy and Loan Guarantees - Joint Participation - Special Assessment District - Economic Development Corporation - Other Financing Alternatives-------------------------- 18 Introduction - Federal Funding - State Funding - Local Funding - Encouraging New Development--------------------------- 24 - Soliciting New Development - CRA Sponsored Development - Encouraging Community Rehabilitation------------------ 26 - Communi ty Design and Review Procedures---------------- 28 - Downtown Center Development Regulation Procedures----- 29 H. APPENDIX - Resolution Establishing the CRA----------------------- 1 - CRA Boundary Description------------------------------ 8 - Railroad Impact Memorandum---------------------------- 9 INTRODUCTION In order to initiate the redevelopment planning process, on May 4, 1982, the City of Boynton Beach declared a portion of the downtown to be a bl ighted area appropriate for redevelopment, as indi~ated by Resolution 82-KK of the City Council. The text of the resolution is provided in the Appendix. Documentation of blighted conditions is avai lable from the Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA). The boundaries of the Community Redevelopment Area contain approximately 180 acres (shown in Figure A-l) and are legally described in Resolution 82-KK. The authority and powers vested in this plan come from the Commu- nity Redevelopment Act of 1969 (Florida Statutes, Chapter 103. Part III). The Communi ty Redevelopment Act grants local muni.:i- palities and local redevelopment agencies the authority to under- take community redevelopment projects fol lowing the designation of a redevelopment area. Once an area has been declared appropriate for redevelopment. a Community Redevelopment Plan is prepared. Before the plan Is approved, the local government body must hold a public hearing on the proposed plan. The term "CRAil is used i nterchangeab 1 y in th is report to refer to both the Community Redevelopment Agency and the Community Redevelopment Area. The terms "Downtown Center" or "CBO" refer to a centralized portion of the downtown whiCh will receive the greatest concentration of development efforts in the preliminary redevelopment phases. The boundaries of the Oowntown Center are shown in Figure A-2. The Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) is the primary agent for guiding the redevelOpment program contained in this plan. To carry out its program, the CRA will work with the City Council. the Staff of the City, County and State governing bodies. the City Planning Board, and other agencies and groups whosedeci- sions affect the downtown. The CRA will also encourage involve- ment of the private sector in the downtown. The success of the plan will depend on the combined efforts of the pUblic and pri- vate sectors. The powers and responsibilities of the CRA are conveyed by City Ordinance No. 0-81-77 (see Appendix), and are in accordance with Section 163.370 of the State Community Redevelop- ment Act of 1969. As part of the redevelopment process there may be times when modifications to the Redevelopment Plan are necessary. Under Chapter 163. the City Council has the authority to amend the plan after a public hearing. Chronology of Community Redeveiopment ~gency EventSI August 4,1981 City Counci I estab1 ished a Boynton Beach Community Redevelopment Agency in accordan;:e ....ith FS 163..356. May 4, 1982 City Council declared the downtown redevelopment area as bl ighted as defined i~ Chapter 163 F.S. May 18, 1982 City Counci I appointed members to the City's Community Redevelop- ment Agency in accordance with F.S. 163.356. April, 1983 Community Redevelopment Agency retained the Urban Design Studio team to prepare the Community Redevelopment Plan COMPREHENSIVE PLAN CONSISTENCY In compliance with Section 163.360(2)(a) of the Florida Statutues, this Community Redevelopment Plan must conform to the City of Boynton Beach Comprehensive Plan as prepared under the Local Government Comprehensive Planning Act of 1975. (See page G-2) 7 '", .. II ,,,,,,.J..,..,,.,,.tl;I.. 14l'''IC.. MOI..t C A",IO &'1" .I. S'(YIl':.' ~ ,ndu.trlll ......... .................. 3 PubliCI Ow.ai-PubIlC Ii ~ "'ecre.lIon A "rill ,.--, U Tt.n.Dort.UOft, Commufttc.uot\. uunu.. .. " - -' U Si~91. Family, Duol.. .101.111-' Imil, ~Vacanl auUclln" r--" ~Vlcanl Floo, 1-J VICA,,' La"" r: Mangrove Propo..d Boynton B.at' Blvd. Bridge f I I r Exl.t'ng Bridge to be Iremo vea ~t..". I! : I II i I I' 'C3 ~ 1EEJ ~. ..... .' ... A. R3. , I .,.._ R1AA R3. ,- , L r ! .. . ~ . i l . . i ;- ~ I I '--- Iv summarY SUHHARY QI ~DEVELO~! ~ RECQMMENDATIONS The' thre~ dlaJor se~tions of this Community ~edevelopment Plan entitled . ~1 ~ ~~~~S~l~!1' ~~ ~~scriP-l~' and ~l~~ Implement Ion are summarized in this section. ~hi le many details ii'a"V'e-b'een-edited, all of the key :::oncepts and recommendations in the Plan are included to provide this summariz~d review for the convienence of the reader, MAJOR GOALS FO~ THE COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AREA AND THE DOWNTOWN CENTER Environment/Identity --------------~_.- - 1 ) Enhance the visual attractiveness of th~ Redevelopment Area by estab1isl'\ing programs with enforcement mechantSI.,'S For streetscape improvements, architectural continuity, and coo r din ate d com mer::: i a 1 s i g nag e a.l 0 n 9 the In a j 0 reo r ,. i do r S entering the DO\ot'ntown Center inc1udlngl U.S.-l, Boynton Beach B1vd., and ~ast Ocean Avenue. Use a waterfront orientation In . creating a unique retail/entertainment environment. Provide active and Intimate pedestrian outdoor spaces (plazas, waterfront walks, shopping arcades. cafe's) with' pedestrian scaled amenities (street furniture,' lighting, shade trees, canopy features). Provide for perpetual publ Ie use of newly created waterfront. Protect the community from the negative impacts (visual and audible) associated with the F.E.C. railroad. 2 ) 3 ) 4 ) 5 ) Land Use -- 1) Encourage mixed-use development in the Downtown Center, Inc1udinlj office, retail, service, financial, "~staurant, entertainment, lodging and residential uses. " 2) Encourage the location of Fyture civic facilities downtown. 3) The redeve10pment agency shou1d sol icit and act as an advocate for development projects that further the downtown goals by assisting in identification of sites, land assemblage, acquisition of permits, and appropriate financing. 4) Solicit a major redevelopment project that will serve as the catalyst for downtown revitllization. 5) Emphasize development' east of U.S. 1 during initia1 redevelopment phases that can use the waterfront amenity to capture development interests and act as a catalyst for later development of non-waterfront areas. A-1 . ""' . r- C ~ i :3: . :; n 1) Plan for an integrated system of r.onveniently located, readily accessible, and visible parking to satisfy increasing user demands associated with new downtown development (including short-term, long-term, on-street, off-street, and garage parking), Utilit'[ Services 1) Complete a comprehensive analysis of existing utility faci 1 ities servicing the Redevelopment Area to determine each systeml s capacity as it relates to increased land use intensities and proposed projects impl ied by the redevelopment plan. 2) Install all utility facilities underground that are located inside the Downtown Center. Neighborhood ~pacts 1) Require appropriate visual landscaped screens/buffers between proposed commercial/office uses and existing residential properties coordinated with an "Enforcement Program", 2) Restrict commercial uses (in areas adjacent to residential neighborhoods) to those that minimize impacts upon the residences (traffic volumes, noise, fumes, rear service and loading, garbage accumulation, storage, building height, etc. ) . PLAN DESCRIPTION Over-A 11 Mark~ Strategy The primary thrust of the Redevelopment Plan should be to create a Downtown Center with a unique retai l/entertainment environment through a waterfront orientation. Project Size SIZE RANGE FOR A MAJOR REDEVELOPMENT PROJECT Iiote 1 : 100-200 rooms other anc ill ary plus uses. conference and Residential. 100 + units Commercial Retail and Restaurant. 50,000 to 80,000 square feet Office Space: 20,000 to 30,000 square feet ----------------------------------------------------------------- A-2 -- - = ~:-,r~ _ ;3 "I ::: Jse ; n _ h e ~~~~s.~':.0. ~~0.s.':.c. T.... 0 r~ a jar S p e cia 1 t Y ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ r: ~ ~ i_ ~ ~ ~ n. t. are a s are pro p 0 sed t 0 cap'ital ize on the \ot'aterfront amenity. One is located at the existing marina \ot'hich should ~ontinue to operate charter fishing boats and provide doc~space adjacent to new shops and restaurants. The second is located at the exisiting Boynton Beach Plaza and entails rehabilitating the existing structui"e to provide private shops and restaurants over-looking a newly created waterfront ?ubl ic Park and Plaza (designated as Recreation/Open Space inclusive of the Mangrove Preserve). Two ne....ly introduced land-use areas, include a Mixed Use area with a hotel, as the principal use and a High-Density ~eSTdential area. Both areas relate strongly to the waterfront amenity and are supportive of the adjacent specialty retail/entertainment uses. Activities that are on or in closest proximity to the water should principally be eating and drinking establishments, pedestrian oriented specialty retai I shops, marina uses, r e ere a t ion a Ius e s, and pub lie use s .' Ide a I I y a hot elf a c i 1 i t Y and a high density residential project should be located to provide \ot'aterfront views. Major Projects Proposed Three major development projects are proposed. 1) ~ ~ATERFRONT PUBLIC PARK/SPECIALTY RETAIL/RESIDENTIAL PROJECT would redevelop the existing Boynton Beach Plaza into a specialty retail/entertainment center focused upon a newly created waterfront Public Park and Plaza. This Publ ic Park and Plaza could almost be consi,dered as a fourth major development project. It represents an exciting opportunity for the City Council to create an outdoor civic center for the benefit of generations to com~. It Is included as part of this multi-use project because of its strong potential for integration with the proposed commercial redevelopment and new residential uses. The multi-familty residential project would orient on this waterfront amenity and support the adjacent retail development economically. Parking to serve shoppers and residents Should be carefully coordinated with parking facilities adjacent to St. Marks. 2) A HOTEL PROJECT would help to enhance the Downtown Center's Tndegenous market as well as the City's position in the regional tourist industry. The Hotel would be ideally located overlooking both waterfront amenities. the marina and the mangrove. .,' A-3 ---~~"". ~~ --f::::; ~~, -~ 1.Waterfror Public Park Special ~y Retail/ Residential 2. Hotel 3_ Marina ~ J .~ I .., . ,"~~ ~~~1 - Boynton Beach bowntown Redevelo ment Plan Major PrOjects T"'I .'1. II '''t..~.4 .. '..r...... ..f, ... "'1.'" .........., ...".,.. ....,....... W"" ....r... t............". ..,....... f., .... .....,... .r... Exhibit A-1 A-4 ...... - :.. " ~ ~ i 'j ;; iJ Q ~ J ~ : T -IOU 1 d i r t. eo n S i f y the pop u 1 a r i t f 0 f : n e e:<isr.ing marina by 3dding specialty retail shops and more restaurants ideally located for patrons to enjoy the daily fishing and boating activities. Dry storage and repair servi~es may be able to be located under the proposed bridge to provide space for retai I Shops on the existing piers. A Civic Center (audit~rium, theatre, band-shell, etc.) is also proposed overlooking a waterfront plaza in a location easilty accessible to Hotel guests. Circulation One right of \ot'ay is proposed to be added (north-south between the First Financial Center and the proposed mixed-use/hotel site). This additional link will complete an important loop necessary to service future traffic associated with development of the Marina. Locating this new I ink as close as possible to the First Financial Center wi II permit the greatest development opportunities associated with the Marina. Several rights-of-way are designated as conducive to abandonment, principally in the area northwes~ of the intersection of Boynton Beach Blvd. and Federal Highway. Abandonment of these r.o.w.'s should only be approved for projects substantially meeting the objectives of this Redevelopment Plan. Parking System The Downtown Center should provide an integrated system of conveniently located, visible, and readily accessible off-street parking areas. The Parking System should incorporate limited mid-bloCk entrances to parking lots which would be identifiable by distinctive signage, landscaping, lighting, etc. Along the Public Pedestrian/Streetscape System parking should be located behind building masses in consolidated block aggregations to al low a continuous active retail facade to front along pedestrian-scaled streets. Pedestrian ~ Streetsca~e Program The Pedestrian System proposed consists of two distinct, but related, systems: 1) the Public/Private Pedestrian System whi~h incorporates publ ic access through private property and, 2) the Public Pedestrian Streetscape System along major roadways where the greatest concentration of foot-traffic is to be encouraged along a fairly continuous retail facade. A-5 ., 5 .' J'" ... ~ :: .J r1 i71 e n ~ e j ~ r .J '; r .31:1 ~; em e :\ t.:3 ; n :: ' Ll a e : 1) The implementation of a street graphics program. 2) The implementation of a commercial facade renovation program. 3) A systematic undergrounding of all aerial utility facilities throughout the core area is recommended coinciding \ot'ith a block by block implementation of the Streetscape Plan. 00en Space System ------ ---- ----- A major element of the open space system is the recommended development of a new outdoor civic plaza as part of the first major project proposed (see page F-13). This new urban park and plaza would replace the largely ceremonial and I ittle used Bicentennial Park \ot'hich is recommended to be abandoned. Bicentennial Park should be retained as an urban open space, however, unti I the development of the new waterfront plaza is assured. The proposed waterfront ?ubl ic Park and Plaza is env.isoned as a major element in the City's Parks and Recreation Program. The site should be designed to accommodate band concerts, art shows and festivals such as the Boynton Gala. In a highly visible location, the plazas' design should reflect the quality of life in Boynton Beach and evoke enormous Community pride. B u f fer i.t.ll!:.!!! The principal objective of the buffer system proposed is to limit visual impact.s on residential areas caused by commercial use and the F.E.C. Railroad. PLAN IMPLEMENTATION Comp~~!~1l~! ~~~i As proposed, the Community Redevelopment Plan is consistent with the currently adopted Boynton Beach Comprehenisve Plan. The City should, however, at the time of Comprehensive Plan update consider the redesignation of land in Study Area 0 from General Commercial to a less intensive aesignation SuCh as Office Commerc i a 1 . A-6 ,,,,.., - l.. and - 8eveloDment Reaulations . Re~ommended Revisions include: Rezone all areas in the "Downtown Center", to a special CSD zone that includes residential/mi~ed use development In addi- tion to the commer~ial. recreational and amusement activities presently allowed by code. In order to facilitate the planning and design of redevelopment area projects a Land Development Manual should be prepared consisting of a cross-referenced development code that includes all regulations and standards that apply to development In the CRA. It should also contain a description of ~the various incentive programs and techniques that are available to the private sector for eRA development. Right-of-~ay Abandonment The adoption of the Redevelopment Plan will establish a specific pol icy regarding ~he abandonment of certain rlght-o'-ways as specified herein. ~ Acquisition/Assemblage The CRA should focus its efforts In the two areas wher"e the three major development projects proposed are located. Initially, the most important function ",ill be to discuss redevelopment plans in detail with all property owners affected and establish the potential for establishing cooperative relationships between property owners and the city. Marketing ~ Promotion Marketing and promotion will be the single most Important means of informing the pUblic and gaining its support for redevelopment efforts. Recommended promotion techniques includes (l) Calendar of Events - Monthly downtown concerts, and ----~~-~ -- --~--- exhibitions, coupled with a retail sales effort, have proven to be successful. (2) Media Involvement - Radio/TV/Newspapers developing contacts r;;-each area---Ysessentia,l to information dissemination. A-7 "I _.J?OI ::en:i:r COi":1:Je:i:ion - :nvol/e t.he community/count,! in a Jesi~:l -::ompet.iton. (4) Signage/Graphi=s Program - Once a graphic logo-identity ha~ been established a program for incorporating this'identity on all signage and graphics associated with redevelopment activity should be adopted; e.g. a sign stating: IIThis project/event sponsored by the Boynton Beach Community Redevelopment Agency." (5) Entrance 11entification Program - Keying on entrance identification into the downtown redevelopment area is a relatively inexpensive project that can be implemented immediately. By properly promoting this effort ",ith a IIribbon cuttingll ceremony. media involvement and an appropriate logo/signage program the eRA can "kick-off" the redevelopment process. (6) Landscape Improvements - Smal 1 scale, but immediate, improvements can boost community confidence in the potential of downtown and the significance of the Community Redevelopment Agency. It is recommended that initially these improvements be focused on the corridors leading into the Do",nto",n Center. (7) Slide ~ Program/Speakers Bureau - Vlth or without a slide show program, a speakers bureau available to all interested organizations is a must. (8) Illustrative Graphics - Even before the adoption of specific design guidelines for the Downtown Center, Illustrations of "what could bell can be prepared for public vle",ing. The exhibition of U~iversity of Miami student work is along these lines. Water. Sewer ~ Drainage Improvements In many instances the CRA must address expenditures relating to the upgrading of the general infrastructure system in the redevelopment area. Ho",ever, Boynton Beach has developed a well thought out infrastructure plan whiCh is in place and, therefore, will relieve the CRA from concentrating its funding to upgrade the system. The analysis concludes that the proposed redevelopment will neither strain existing facilities nor incur improvements. project costly A-a ,~. - ~e:l 3nc~a:er~ay ImDr~vements The principal recommendations are as follows: 1. Attempt to gain control. either by fee title ownerShip. lease or exchange of al I of the existing mangrove forest area. 2 " Prepare a may affect backgrounn impact for detai led study of the mangrove forest area as it the future proposed qevelopment and to provide the for an assessment of the biological and ecological the proposed construction. 3. Provide a refined detai I plan of the proposed waterfront development in terms of the size, depth, and exact location of the water area relative to the affected wetland areas and formulate a plan in consultation ",ith the regulatory agencies for the mitigation of the loss of any of the wetland areas. 4. Determine a proposed strategy for the -implementation of the project considering alternative financing, potential for sharing of the proposed construction ",ith future developers in the downtown area, or the possibility of bond financed construction of the entire project as a part of a comprehensive downtown redevelopment program. ENCOURAGING NEW DEVELOPMENT The CRA must play an active role in soliciting and facilitating development. This includes acting as an advocate for selected projects at local, state, and possibly national levels. ~ Sponsored Development DESIGNATED PARCELS: The eRA should establish procedures and terms for implementing the three major development projects proposed seek the approval of necessary land acquisition and disposal of City owned land in inventory if necessary, and actively solicit developers or tenants for the project. UNDESIGNATEO PARCELS, The,CRA should respond to requests for assistance by helping identify sites and provide information about parcel ownership, building codes and other restrictions, the permitting process, and the avai lability of financing locally and elsewhere. A-9 E~cau~~GI~G COM~~NITY REHABiliTATION The eRA r:lust immediately develop a priority of reoevelopment within the downtown area. This will specifying an initial "modelll Clock which in our opinion be the "old town" retai 1 block which has the necessary far a successful joint venture between the city and the building owners/retail shop owners. block, include should elements private The CRA must. rnove to establish a revolving loan fund in conjunction with conventional local financing and TIF Trust fund monies to effectuat the rehabilitation of the building facades (interiors where appropriate) along the subject redevelopment IImodel" block. COMMUNITY DESIGN AND REVIEW PROCEDURES The formulation of deiS(jn guidelines is recommended ensure that redevelopment will be carried out in a consistent with CRA plan objectives. to manner A specific architectural vernacular should not be perscribed; however. all new improvements should be designed to be unique to Boynton Beach. In order to properly reflect Do",nto",n Center objectives design guidel ines should be adopted after the adoption of the Community Redevelopment Plan and the adoption of a revised and expanded CBD District ordinance. Review procedures rreed to be formulated to ensure that projects meet design guidelines. Enforcement mechanisms for design guidelines must include municipal budgeting for city staff to conduct periodic on-site inspections. This will help guarantee continued conformi,ty to the originally approved design and construction. especially for easi ly changed elements, such as landscape buffer requirements. DOWNTOWN CENTER DEVELOPMENT REGULATION PROCEDURES Subsequent to the concurrent adoption of this ~edevelopment Plan and appropriate amendments to the City's Comprehensive Plan the city must establish an effective procedure for revie",ing and approving development in the Downtown Center. It is recommended that the following actions be officially and concurrently taken as soon after the adoption of the Redevelopment ?lan as possiblel A-10 1 ) a:'1d expanded CBD ~rdinance regulati'1g D.,wnt.,wn Center. lying within the limits of the Downtown Ad":)t. a ,,=vlsed development in the 2) 'Rez.,ne all lands Center to CBD. Adopt a set "f Design guidelines and standards for d eve lop men tin the D., w n t ., w n C e n tel"". Reconsider the current development review process as it will relate to CBD development in order to effectively implement CSD design. guidelines and development standard;J. Lift the building moratorium for the Downtown Center. 3 ) 4 ) 5 ) A-11 :~e ?t: ~::'.arl factors Eor :ncluding Study Areas 7 and 8 1n ::-,e Downtown Center are: 1) Linkage:o I-95 and the island to the east. 2) Configura:lon and location that can p~ovide .cohesiveness wl:hin the Downtown Center and between the Downtown Center and surrounding areas. 3) Potential for waterfront orientation, and marine and recreational ~ses. 4) Some eXistlng development that will complement rede- velopment goals. 5) Potential for land assemblage. A ~ignificant factor 1n areas 7 and 8 meeting the above criteria is the construction of the Boynton Beach Boulevard bridge. This new vehicular corr1dor will make land north of the bridge more accessible and allow greater pedestrian, vehicular, and market linkage with the existing waterfront areas south of the bridge. With waterfront development to the north of the bridge, the entire Downtown Center will have a waterfront orientation. The strategy of linking areas north and south of the bridge helps mitigate potential deleterious impacts on existing commercial development along Ocean Boulevard from the "dead ending" of this street due to the relocated bridge, and provides investment i ncent i ves for those bus i nes ses 1 oca ted between Boyn ton Beach Boulevard and Ocean Avenue east of u.s. 1. TABLE B - 1 shows land ownership and assessed value patterns in areas of the Downtown Center that offer the greatest potential for land assembly. (See TABLE B-1 footnote).- As can be seen, ~~e'area north of Boynton Beach Boulevard is considerably larger ~-4 - . :h3~ :he ares to :~e south but has roughly the same number 2: lots and owners as the area to the south. However, the nor- :hern area has a substantial amount of wetland area that is not suitable _for extensive development due to environmental reasons but could be used for creating a cove and providing open sf)ace. Since extensive development of the wetlands is not possible, the opportunity exists for density trade-offs with upland areas of f'arcels. These factors, along with the greater amount of vacant land in the northern section make it the most suitable for land assemblage and creating additional waterfront, and therefore, the most likely area for encouraging and assisting in an initial major project to serve as a catalyst for the entire area. TABLE B-1 SUMMARY OF LAND CHARACTERISTICS IN DOWNTOWN CENTER THE NORTH OF BOYNTON BEACH BLVD(a) SOUTH OF BOYNTON BEACH BLVD(b) ----------------------------------------------------------------- Lots 17 16 Parcels 11 11 Owners 9 10 Assessed Land Value $1,229,640 $1,850,000 Assessed Building Value 2,071,640 3,243,105 Total Assessed Value(6) 3,300,996 5,093,105 Areas 32.4 17.0 (a) Bounded by Boynton Beach Blvd., U.S. 1, N.E. 6th Ave and the Northern CRA boundary, and the Intracoastal waterway. (b) Bounded by Boynton Beach Blvd., Ocean Ave, U.S. 1, and the Intracoastal Waterway. ,... - ~'. 'f' 8-6 ECONOMIC ASSUMPT:ONS During the research and analysis of economic, market, and fiscal data, a number of economic and market assumptions were formulated for the plan. These 3ssumptions are based on historical trends, current conditions, and the anticipated conditions in the future that will affect dO'dntown revitalization. Their intent is to concisely define the underlying strategies and guidelines for plan preparation and implementation. These guidelines are not necessarily intended to represent objectives or goals, but rather, are statements that reasonably reflect current and anti- cipated conditions as well as a course of action to take advantage of favorable conditions and to mitigate unfavorable conditions. 'Following are the Economic Assumptions on which the Boynton Beach Redevelopment Plan is based: 1) The Delray Beach and Lake Worth downtown d~stricts will generate the greatest competition with a redeveloped Boynton Beach Downtown Center. In addition, the regional mall being constructed to the west will also generate competition. However, the mall may also benefit the downtown by establishing Boynton as a shopping destination and potentially providing spill- over trade. , , .. 1", 2 ) The market area for the Boynton Beach downtown area is. relatively stronger than the Lake Worth downtown market and weaker than the Delray Beach market. ',... ,- .( \ : 3 ) The Boynton Beach downtown cannot expect to compete with West Palm Beach and Boca Raton for office space serving regional needs. However, some office space could be absorbed in the downtown that would be oriented to serving the needs of the primary market area. .~~ .,. 4) The tourist lodging industry in Boynton Beach, and) the downtown area in particular, does not represent a significant share of the regional market. Further, most of the lodging facilities in Boynton Beach are relatively small facilities which, during the past 3everal years, have been leaving the market. 5) Retail trade, services, and tourism provide the greatest opportunities for revitalizing the Boynton Beach downtown. These have traditionally been strong industries in the region. 6) In order to effectively compete with surrounding down- town districts and suburban malls, the Boynton Beach downtown area must establish a unique identity, which can best be achieved through a waterfront orientation. - - =J>~?~T U1G :Jm';Nlm';~J AR:::AS An analysis of downtown districts located in cities which are comparable to Boynton Beach, or that will compete witr. Boynton 3eac'::, pro,vides an indication of the potenti.al for the Boynton area and its competitive position within the region. The downtown districts located in Lake Worth and Delray Beach are two such districts. Both are located in southern Palm Beach County, and both have faced some of the conditions that Boynton Beach will face, such as increasing competition from shopping centers, rela- tively weak markets adjacent to the downtown area, and suburban growth. This section analyzes characteristics of these districts and identifies certain implications that are applicable to down- town redevelopment in Boynton Beach. A field survey was conducted to inventory the number and types of businesses with street frontage in the core area of each district. In Lake Worth this area is Lake Avenue between Dixie Highway and Federal Highway; and in Delray, Atlantic Avenue bet wee n N. E . 3 r d A v e n u e and the I n t r a c 0 a s tal Wa t e tv! a y. Bot h 0 f these districts are relatively healthy and display low vacancies. Both have also had revitalization programs in the past and, 1n Lake Worth, street and sidewalk improvements were underway at the time of the survey. (Early summer of 1983). 3-8 Based on the field survey results, which are ~resented in TABL~ B-2, these areas display certai~ similarities, which include: 1) A predominance of retail merchandise stores, relatively small in size, with women's apparel ~nd accessories being the most commo~ single ty~e of store in this category. 2) Eating and drinking establishments are the second most common business ty~e. 3) Office space was limited to insurance, legal, real estate and medical uses. 4) Relatively low vacancy rates, although Lake Worth does have more than double the amount that Delray has. The ~redominance of retailing and services and the secondary importance of office uses in both districts is expected due to several reasons. Neither area has extensive non-local governmen- tal centers in close ~roximity and each is located near a major city in the County (West Palm Beach and Boca Raton) and can not expect to com~ete with these areas for major office develo~ment. Further, much of the office development that has been occurring in these two cities has taken ~lace in suburban areas. The relatively small size of businesses and the limited goods and services ~rovided by any individual store reflects the influence of outlying shopping centers and their ability to capture depart- ment store trade, as well as the ability of these downtown dis- tricts to capture s~ecialty type trade. The results of the survey also identified some distinct contrasts between the two districts which include: 8-~ (1) The Delra} distrlct has more exclusive shops than L3ke Wor:h as ~e1l as a greater diversity of types of stores. (2) The aver3ge (feet) frontage per store in lake Worth is less than in Delray, which reflects the upper _ end market to which Delray caters. (3) Total street frontage is considerably less in Lake Worth than in Delray. The differences in the two districts are mostly explained by the markets they serve. Even though Lake Worth has a larger population within relatively close proximity than does Delray, Delray has a larger downtown core area. This is most likely due to more upper income areas being located near the Delray district than to the Lake Worth district. The weaker Lake Worth market area IS also reflected in the number of competing facilities that have located in the market areas of each district. Delray Beach has more major shopping centers competing for its market area than does Lake Worth, indicating a greater ability to sustain commercial activity in the area. In summary, the Lake Worth district has remained healthy despite a relatively weak market area, and Delray Beach has remained healthy with "upper end" businesses despite substantial competition from community and regional shopping facilities. This provides an indication of, and should offer confidence in, the ability to develop a healthy downtown Boynton Beach. 8-10 TABLE B-2 SUMMARY OF DOWNTO~N BUSINESSES WITH STREET FRONTAGE' IN DELRAY AND LAKE WORTH Lake Worth Delray Total ----------------------------------------------------------------- MERCHANDISE GROUP Women's A!?!?arel and Accessories Total 8 12 20 0 2 2 4 3 7 5 8 13 2 4 6 2 1 3 5 4 9 3 5 8 7 5 12 1 1 2 37 45 82 Men's Apparel ar.d Accessories Men's and Women's A!?l?arel and Accessories Jewelry, Antiques, Art and Galleries Gifts Groceries/Health Food Household Furnishings Speciality - Common Speciality - Narrow Drug Stores SERVICES Finance, Insurance, and Real Estate 3 9 12 Legal o 3 3 Travel 1 3 4 Hair - Women 3 2 5 Hair - Men 1 o 1 Restaurant 8 6 14 Miscellaneous 7 o 7 Total 23 23 46 8-11 T';BLS :3 - 2 CONT U:C SJ 07HSR INCLUDING \ZACANT 7 4 11 GRAND TOr:-';L 67 72 139 Front Feet (LF) 1860 2480 4340 Average Front Ftg (LF) 28 34 31 8-12 HistorlC Pooulatio~ Growth " As the previous discussion poi~ted out, both Delray and Lake worth have healthy downtown districts that have experienced rede- velopment projects. One might question why these two cities developed and sustained well defined, downtown districts while Boca Raton and Boynton, which have larger populations, did not. While there are probably several reasons for the differences in downtown development between these two pairs of cities, it ap- pears that population growth patterns may have been influential. As TABLE B-3 shows, both Delray Beach and Lake Worth had signi- ficantly larger populations during the 1930's and 1940's than.did Boca Raton and Boynton. These levels of population were apparen- tly sufficient to foster substantial development of downtown areas in Delray and Lake Worth while Boynton and Boca had more limited downtown development. Of course during this period down- town districts were the prevelant form of urban t~ade area. From the 1950's through 1980, the populations of Boynton and Boca began growing very rapidly and surpassed those of Delray and Lake Worth. However, this period also represents the beginning of the predominance of suburban growth with attendant suburban shopping malls. Thus, the timing of growth in Boynton and Boca lead to the westward expansion of the transportation system and population, which in turn lead to commercial facilities locating in suburban areas rather than in downtown areas. - TABLE B-3 POPULATION GROWTH BOYNTON,BOCA RATON, DELRAY AND LAKE WORTH l.930 TO 1980 YEAR BOCA DELRAY BOYNTON LAKE WORTH 1930 447 2,333 1,035 5,940 1940 723 3,737 1,326 7,408 1950 992 6,312 2,542 11,777 1960 6,974 12,230 10,467 20,758 1970 29,538 19,915 18,115 23,714 1980 49,505 34,325 35,624 27,048 Source: u.S. Census The south county area IS now the fastest growing region of Palm Beach County and will continue to be the fastest growing region during the remainder of this decade. Nearly one out of every two new residents in Palm Beach County during the 1980's will be locating in the south county. This high rate of growth is attri- butable to a number of factors including the location of major employers such as IBM, Motorola, and Florida Atlantic University, the migration of residents to the south county from Dade and Broward, and the indigeneous expansion of commerce leading to greater employment. Further fueling growth in the area has been the traditional in-migration of northern retirees and businesses. According to population projections of the Palm Beach County Area Planning Board, the Greater Boynton Beach area can expect an annual average of 4,881 new residents during the 1980's, which will yield an annual average of 1,952 new household formations based on 2.5 persons per household. Thus, it is clear that the 8-14 Boynton Beach cowntown is situated in a high growth region whi~~ will enhance redevelopment opportqnities. Market Profile TABLE B - 4 presents da~a from the annual market study conducted by Market Opinion Research (MaRl for the Palm Beach Post and Evening Times. This study generates shopping pattern informatior. for Palm Beach County using survey questionnaries and interviews of the adult population. One component of the study is to determine the frequency of shopping trips to twenty major shopping facilities in the county by the adult population (eighteen years of age and older). Among the twenty shopping centers listed by MaR, the Delray and Lake Worth downtown districts placed tenth and eleventh, respectively. The study found that 18% of adult shoppers in Palm Beach County had visited the Delray downtown district during the month pre- vious to the survey, and 17% had visited the Lake Worth district. The respondents who indicated they had visited the Delray district were evenly distributed by male and female while Lake Worth had a greater proportion of males. The study also shows that Lake Worth had a greater proportion of younger shoppers while Delray had a greater share of shoppers 50 years of age and older. This age distribution of downtown shoppers generally corresponds to the population age distribution of each district's surrounding market area, with Delray having a greater proportion of its population in the 65 and up age cohort.(See TABLE B - 5). 8 ..- - .. '--. J <__ 8-16 ~s the last Eour ~ows of data in TABLE B - 4 show, a greate~ ?roportion of Oelr3Y shoppers are in the highest income catego~~' compared to Lake Worth shoppers. However, Oelray also had a -, gre3ter proporticn of shoppers in the two lowest income catego- ries while Lake Worth has a relatively even distribution across all income categories. TABLE B - 4 CHARACTERISTIC~ OF SHOPPERS DELRAY BEACH AND LAKE WORTH DOWNTOWN DISTRICTS BY PERCENT Of THE ADULT POPULATION IN PALM BEACH COUNTY % of Adult population De1ray Lake Worth ------------------------------------------------------------------ Total (%) 18 18 Male Female 18 18 18 16 ~ Age 18-24 25-34 35-49 50-64 65 + 7 14 10 23 28 15 15 14 18 20 Income Less than $20,000 $20,000-$24,999 $25,000-$34,999 $35,000 and up 15 19 14 21 15 17 20 16 Source: 1982 Palm Beach County Market Profile, Market Opinion Research. 8-17 Imollcations for )own~own Bovnton Both the slmilarl:l~s and differences of the Lake Worth ar.j oelray downtown distric~s, along with the markets they serve, have imp 1.1 cat 1 0 n s Eo r developing strategies to revitalize the Boynton downtown area. Being located between these two districts, the Boynton downtown area can expect to share some of their advantages and disadvantages. TABLE B - 5 presents a profile of 1980 housing and population characteristics of the Boynton, Delray and Lake Worth areas. As the data show, Lake Worth has 115,269 persons within its market area compared to approximately 67,000 in both Delray and Boynton. Oelray's population is the most heavily skewed towards retired persons as evidenced by 34.7% of the population in the 65 and over category. Lake Worth has the lowest proportion of persons in this age category with 24.0% and Boynton lies in the middle with 32.8%. Thus, Boynton's potential to capture the expendi- tures of retirees, which is a significant market in the Delray and Lake Worth downtown districts as well as throughout Palm Beach County, is favorable. Boynton ranks highest in the proportion of owner occupied dwelling units, with 67.5%. This is followed by 60.7% for Delray and 58.2% for Lake ~'Vorth. This is also a favorable indicator since higher owner occupancy typically indicates greater economic stability in an area as well as a greater propensity for pur- chases of home furnishings and improvements, particular ly non- essential items. The median value of housing is highest in the 8-18 oelray area, 3t S88,736, and lowest in Lake Worth, at 554,142, with Boynton at S66,008. The leas~ favorable ~arket indicator for Boynton Beach is the number of Hotel and Motel units. The Boynton area has 239 units compared to 598 1n Delray Beach and 828 in Lake Worth. Not only does Boynton have fewer units than the other areas, but these units are also in relatively small facilities. This situation has two negative implications for the area. The first is that relatively small hotel and motel facilities are not able to accommodate seminars, conferences and attendent business and tourist trade. Secondly, there has been a historical decline in small hotel and motel facilities throughout Southeast Florida. If this pattern holds true in Boynton and units are not replaced by larger facilities, then the area would experience a declining share of economic benefits generated by tourism. ~_1C TABLE B - 5 POPCLATION ~ND HOUSING PROFILE Boynton Delray Lake Worth ---------------------------------------------------------------- populationa 65,405 63,797 115,269 - 65 and over 32.8 34.7 24.0 Dwelling Unitsa 34,535 37,983 60,434 - % Owner Occupied 67.5 60.7 58.2 - Median Value 566,008 $88,786 $54,142 Hotel and Motel Unitsb 239 598 828 Sources: aU.S. Census, 1980 b Florida Hotel and Restaurant Commission 8-20 su RVEY OF MAR I N~.S 1:1 ':'HE BOYNTON INLET AREA A survey of marin3 facilities in the area was undertaken to inventory the number of wet slips and to determine occupancy levels and rental rates for the slips. Of the commercial marlnas that were surveyed, four were found to have wet slips, with a total of 177 slips. In addition, there are approximately 17 tem- porary dockage berths avallable for overnight boaters. All marinas indicated occupancy at or near 100 percent during the season. For those marinas that are seasonal in nature, that 1S, offer slips on a seasonal basis, the off-season occupancy rate ranged between 50 percent and 80 percent. For those that tend to rent on a permanent, monthly basis, non-season occupancy was usually equal to the season level, or close to 100 percent. A factor that could significantly affect the wet slip market in the area is the recent sale of the Lakeside Marina for condominium development. This marina accounts for about 30 percent of the commercial wet slip supply in the area with 53 slips. It is the understanding of the marina operater that it is the intent of the developer to make the slips available to condominium purchasers, and thus, take them off the general market. TABLE B - 6 summarizes the results of the survey, which only included commercial marinas and excluded private docks and berths associated with condominiums, restaurants, etc... D_" -1 TABLE B - 6 ~AR!NA SURVEY SUMMARY TOTAL SLIPS: 177 MAXIMUM BOAT SIZE: 125' OCCUPANCY: WINTER SUMMER 98% 78% TEMPORARY BERTHS: 17 MONTHLY RENTAL RATE $183.00 AND UP (BASED ON A 351 BOAT). THE HIGHEST RENTAL RATE WOULD BE FOR A 125' BOAT, WHICH IS THE LARGEST BOAT THAT CAN BE ACCOMMODATED, AND WOULD COST APPROXIMATELY $450.00. WHILE THERE ARE MANY VARIABLES INVOLVED, SUCH AS BOAT SIZE, ELECTRICAL CHARGES, ETC., IT APPEARS AN AVERAGE OF BETWEEN $200.00 AND $250.00 PER SLIP, PER MONTH, CAN BE EXPECTED IN REVENUES. 3-22 THE ~RAOS At:O SERVICE SECTOR IN PALM BEACH COUNTY The Retail Trade and Service sectors have traditionally been strong in~ustries in Palm Beach County. The strength of these industries is attributable to a number of factors, including tourism, the large retlred population and the large volume oE transfer payment income associated with this population segment, seasonal residents, and the overall high level of per capita personal income in the County. TABLE B - 7 illustrates the strength of the Retail Trade'and Services industries in Palm Beach County by showing employment trends from 1980 through 1982. Even though the years 1980 through 1982 represent'a recessionary period nationally as well as in the state of Florida, retail trade and service employment re- mained resilient to the recession and increased by 11.4 and 10.9 percent, respectively, compared to an increase of 5.2 percent for total employment. Also showing healthy employment growth were the Transportation and Utilities, and Finance, Insurance, and Real Estate Sectors with 19.0 and 7.0 percent increases, respec- tively. R-~~ T;'.BL:: a - 7 ~O~-AGRrCULTURAL EMPLOYMENT I~ PALM BEACH COUNTY 1930-1982(000) 1980 1981 1982 % CHANGE 1980-82 ----------~------------------------------------------------------ ~anufacturing 28 .3 28 .3 28.2 -0.4 Construction 20.0 20.4 17.7 -11.5 Trans. & Utilities 8 .4 8 .8 10.0 19.0 'i'lh ole Sale Trade 7 .1 7 . 1 7 .4 4 .2 Retail Trade 45.5 47.0 50.7 11. 4 Fin, Ins, & R.E. l7.1 17.5 18.3 7.0 Services 49.6 53.3 55.0 10.9 Government 30 .5 31.6 30.0 -1.6 TOTAL 206.5 214.0 217.3 5.2 Source: Florida Department of Labor and Employment Security. Of particular importance to redevelopment in Boynton Beach is the strength and significance of Eating and Drinking Establishments within the Retail Trade industry, which accounts for 29.3 percent of employment in this sector. TABLE B - 8 illustrates the growth ln taxable retail sales for Eating and Drinking Establishments in Palm Beach County from 1978 to 1982. As these data show, real sales (sales adjusted for inflation) in this category grew a relatively healthy 19 percent during this period, even though sales were somewhat affected in 1982 by the recession although they did continue to grow. In many retail categories, sales volumes declined in real terms in the county and state (during the recent recess ion). 8-24 TABLE B - 8 TAXABLE SALES IN EA':'I~G A~m DRUIKING ESTABLISHMENTS I~ PALM BEACH COUNTY 1980-1982 S(MILLIONS) SAlES IN CURRENT DOLLARS SALES IN ADJUSTED DOLLARS (a) --------------------------------------------------------- 1978 293 149 1979 356 163 1980 430 174 1981 481 1982 512 176 177 % CHANGE 75 19 Data Source: Florida Department of Revenue (a) : Adjusted for inflation Of course tourists and seasonal residents have a considerable impact on consumer expenditures in Palm Beach County. TABLE B - 9 shows gross monthly sales in selected categories during 1982. As can be seen, a definite pattern exists where sales are consi- derably lower in summer months, the off-season, compared to winter months, the traditional peak of the tourist season. 8-25 TABLE B - 9 GROSS MONTHLY SALES IN PALM BEACH COUNTY IN SELECTED CATEGORIES 1982 $(MILLIONSl MONTH RESTAURANTS TAVERNS, & NIGHTCLUBS CLOTHING STORES ----------------------------------------------------------------- January 35.9 10.9 13.4 February 39 .1 12.0 14.9 March 41. 5 12.3 19.3 April 37 .3 10.9 16.0 May 30.2 8.2 10.5 Jun 26.1 8.0 9.6 Ju1 27 .1 7.6 8.8 Aug 27.9 7 .4 8.8 Sept 26.6 7.6 7.7 Oct 28.1 8.6 8.4 Nov 31.7 10.9 11.4 Dee 38.4 14.3 21.4 TOTAL 390.5 192.2 150.6 8-26 TABLE B - 10 T.~XABLE VALUE OF PROPERTY IN THE CRA 1982 S (000) TAXABLE VALUE PERCENT OF CRA TOTAL TYPE ----------------------------------------------------------------- DEVELOPED Residential 6,703 23.6 6,559 23.1 5,268 18 .5 3,380 11.9 2,228 7.8 1,404 4.9 946 3.3 Office & Bank Buildings Commercial Industrial Restaurants & Hotels Auto Service & Repair Misc VACANT Residential 249 0.9 Commercial 1,655 5.8 Industrial 59 0.2 TOTAL 28,452 100.0 Source: Palm Beach County NAL Property Assessment File, Florida Department of Revenue. B-27 ??CPERTY 7AX BASE Ex::.stinq ~ 7ABLE B - 10 illustr~tes the breakdown of taxable prope:ty value, by type, rn the CRA. Residential value is the largest single category and cor.tributes $6.7 million or 23.6 percent of t~e total value, however, all non-residential categories combined contribute $21.5 million or 75.6 percent of the total. T:,e largest non-residential category is office and bank buildings, which contributes $6.6 million or 23.1 percent. r10st of this value is derived from three buildings, the First Financial Plaza office building, and the Flagship and Florida Coast bank buildings. General Commercial buildings contribute the next highest value with 18.5 percent of the total. TABLE B - 11 compares the distribution of taxable property value by broad category in the City and the CRA. As can be seen, the CRA has a much larger proportion of land in non-residential categories than the City. Conversely, only 23.6 percent of the CRA's tax base 1S residential compared to 77.9 citywide. Overall, the CRA comprises 3.5 percent of the City's real property tax base. However, once the Motorola plant and the regional mall located in suburban areas are completed and added to the tax roll, the CRA's share of the property tax base, and particularly its share of non-residential value, will most likely decline. 9-28 TABLE 8 - 11 PERCE~TAGE DISTRIBUTION OF REAL PROPERTY VALUE IN TRE CRA AND CITY 1983 CATEGORY CRA CITY Residential 23.6 77.9 Commercial 54.3 8.9 Industrial 11.9 3 .1 Vacant 6.9 8. 7 All Other 3.3 1.4 TOTAL 100.0 100.0 Property Tax Base Growth As contained in later sections of this Plan, a Tax Increment Financing program is being recommended as a tool to implement and encourage redevelopment. At this point in the Redevelopment process it is somewhat premature to accurately estimate the amount of revenue that can be expected from a tax increment program because some of the major factors that will influence the amount of revenue cannot be determined with certainty, including such things as: 1) The completion date for the new Boynton Beach Boulevard bridge, which is expected to have a substantial impact on property values in the CRA, especially the City Center. 2) The timing of reassessments by the Palm Beach County Property Appraisors Office to reflect changes in market value of property brought on by construction of the bridge and f rom proper ty tr ansact ions tha t occur before the fir 5 t "increment" tax roll. 8-29 3) The :i~lr.g 3na ~hasing of property improvements, ne~ construction, and maJor redevelopment projects in the CRA. Of course_there are :nany other unpredictable factors that wi 11 determine the ultimate amount of tax increment revenue that will be generated for which cer~ain assumptions have to made, such as millage rates of ':he affected taxing authorities, possibLe changes in homestead exemptlon laws, etc... However, glven the uncertainty of the factors described above, the following discussion provides a forecast of the amount of revenue that may arise from a tax increment program making certain broad assumptions, including: 1) The aggregate millage rate that will apply to the pro- gram wi 110 be 10.157 mills, the effective level in FY 1982-83 had the program been implemented at that time. 2) Assessed taxable value in the CRA, excluding most areas of the City Center, will increase 5 percent annually. 3) An annual average of 5,000 square feet of new commercial and industrial buildings with an average value of $45.00 per square foot will be constructed on vacant land throughout the CRA, excluding the City Center. 4) Property values in the City Center will increase at 3 greater rate than in other areas of the CRA due to implementation of the Redevelopment Plan and construction of the new bridge. 5) Construction of major redevelopment projects in the City Center will begin in 1989 and span a five year period. TABLE 8 - 12 illustrates the potential tax base increase under the assumptions listed above to the year 2000. The column headed "BASE" represents the value of all property in the CRA, less most areas of the City Center, increasing at a 5 percent annual rate. 8-30 The bench~ark year for the base is 1983, the most recent year f~r which data was avaIlable. A 5 pef-cent growth rate was applied to the 1983 tax roll b.::ised on growth from 1982 to 1983. The grow::' rate from years prior to 1982-83 can not be ~sed due to distor- tions in assessed value levels created by assessment techniques that were utilized to bring assessed value to market value. The next column in Ti-.SLE S - 12, "NEW INDUSTRIAL AND COMMERCIAL", assumes that 5,000 square feet of these improvement categories will be added annually at an average assessed value of $45.00 ger square foot. The 5,000 square feet of additional building space is based on the amount of remaining vacant land and historic growth trends. The fourth column In the table represents the growth of land value in the City Center area. From 1984 to 1985, the first year of revenue accrual, a 5 percent increase is used. During the years 1985 through 1992 an annual growth rate of 20 percent is used followed by a 10 percent rate in subsequent years. These relatively high rates are used to reflect the anticipated rapid rise in the taxable value of property in the City Center area from their current low levels. (Much of the property in the City Center is assessed at less than $3.00 per square foot). The next column, headed "NEW CONSTRUCTION" represents major rede- velopment projects that are described in later sections of this Plan. For the purposes of this analysis, construction of these projects are assumed to occur over a five year period beginning in 1989, and that the total value of these projects, $25.5 B-31 7ABLE B - 12 fORCASTED GROWTH OF 7HE CRA TAX BASE 1984-2000 CITY CENTER NEW INDUST. NE~oJ INCREASE 0"- v :. YEAR BASE &COMMERCI AL LAND CONSTRUCTION TOTAL BASE YE.;? 1984 27,324 2,550 29,874 1985 28,690 225 3,060 31,975 2,101 1986 30,124 461 3,672 34,257 4,303 1987 31,631 709 4,406 36,746 6,872 1988 33,212 969 5,288 39,469 9,595 1989 34,873 1,243 6,345 5,100 47,561 17,687 : 1990 36,617 1,530 7,614 10,455 56,216 26,342 1991 38,448 1,831 9,137 16,078 65,494 35,620 1992 40,370 2,148 10,964 21,982 75,464 44,590 1993 42,389 2,480 13,157 28,181 86,207 56,333 1994 44,508 2,330 14,473 30,999 92,810 62,936 1995 46,734 3,197 15,920 34,099 99,950 70,076 1996 49,070 3,581 17,512 37,509 107,672 77,798 1997 51,524 3,985 19,263 41,260 116,032 86,158 1998 54,100 4,185 21,189 45,386 124,860 94,986 1999 56,805 4,619 23,308 49,924 134,656 104,691 2000 59,645 5,075 25,639 59,917 145,276 115,402 8-32 mi l. 1 ion, wi 11 be spread evenly over the five year ?eriod. Thus, S5.l mi 11 ion wi 1l. be added each 'tear from 1989 to 1984, and the value from prior years is assumed to increase 5 percent annually. The last c~lumn shows the increase in the tax base from 1984, which is the benchmark or "freeze" year. Finally, a word of caution must be expressed in interpreting the figures in TABLE B - 12. As implied above, this analysis is intended to illustrate what ma~ occur by the year 2000 under certain circumstances as opposed to what will occur. The approach that has been followed tends to average certain factors over time periods rather than predict a specific time for an occurance. For instance, the amount of new commercial and indus- trial space is assumed to average 5,000 square feet per year although it will occur in periodic increments and, depending on their timing, will effect tax base levels in any specific year. TABLE B - 13 illustrates the amount of revenue that would be generated from a tax increment program based on tax base growth assuming an effective millage rate of 10.157 mills (the rate that would have applied if a program had been in effect for FY 1982- 83). This millage rate was derived by taking the aggregate effective millage rate in the eRA, 17.9029 mills, and subtracting out the School Board and Water Management District tax. As the figures in TABLE B - 13 show, the initial year of the tax incre- ment program would yield $22,210 while the year 2000 would yield over $1.2 million given the assumptions of this analysis. How- ever, with respect to the first year revenues, the actual amount D_~ I:t TABLE 8 - 13 FORECASTED TAX INCREMENT REVENUE 1984-2000 ACCUMULATED ACCUMULATED YEARa AMOUNT TOTAL ANNUAL AVERAGE 1985 22,21.0 22,210 22,210 1986 45,487 67,697 33,848 1987 72,644 140,341 46,780 1988 101,428 241,769 60,442 1989 186,969 428,738 85,748 1990 278,461 707,199 117,866 1991 376,539 1,083,738 154,820 1992 481,932 1,565,670 195,709 1993 595,496 2,161,166 240,130 1994 665,296 2,826,462 282,646 1995 740,773 3,567,235 324,294 1996 822,403 4,389,638 365,803 1997 910,776 5,300,414 407,724 1998 1,004,097 6,304,511 420,301 1999 1,106,688 7,411,199 463,200 2000 1,219,914 8,631,113 507,713 aRefers to the calender year in which the fiscal year ends. 8-34 that will be generated degends on whether or not property in the eRA is substantially reassessed -for the 1984-85 tax year and the applicable millage rates that are adopted. And, as mentioned .' previously, 5,000 square feet of new construction atl $45.00 p.s.f., or $225,000, has been averaged in but may not actually occur. 8-35 = Ex.isting Conditions = IIUU\II.F.mll, '=:;dsting Land Use ,""" !..-JOfUC.. o Commercii' ServIC.. 010101.11 o AulO ,.1.. . s.ryl... ~ Inc1ultrlll 80ynton Canal gj PuDlI./Quu,.Publl. o R,.,ullon . P.rU ~Tr.n'Do'''1I0n. Communlc.tlon, UIIIIU.. ~VI..nl Bulldln; IvFl V...nl Floor o ....c.nl L.na o ...n;ro.. ~.': ~;':":'i::':" :R3 . ';;' >: . '. - ~ . . . .~~:~~)/:::..: .:::;.~:.'~.' :.~: ~ ::~,; .. . ) ~ 1 :3 . . o # ~ . r I I L :: :-:." .' ,..::.......:. 'C3 ::.::, . .' . .;..:'~).\:.\r\~.:; .:.', :'. .: ':::}:??~;;~~{{:,<.::.' 1I:?:.~:::;,r:>':';' Prop .ed Boynton BOOr Blvd. Brld.. ExI..L. Brld.. to be Ir.mow.a t . Exhibit C-1 Existing land Use & Zoning BOYNTON BEACH COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT PROGRAM COMMUNITY CHARACTER- A Sense of Place An understanding of community character can be developed through an assessment of existing land-use patterns and streetscape ele- ments. A brief summary of our initial findings follows: LAND-USE PATTERNS The attached land-use map reveals the following usage pa~terns with associated problems and opportunities: 1. The districts surrounding !h!redevelop~ent area are primarily residential, creating a need for sensitivity in buffering adjacent neighborhoods from downtown functions. 2. Public ,waterfront access is presently limited due to the existence of a private marina and a sen- sitive mangrove area, but potential exists to de- velop a public waterfront character, which is im- plied already in the name, "Boynton Beach". 3. Federal Highw,!Y and the F.E.C. Railroad .(2 'spines running north and south) create majOr physical boundaries and therefore define functional dis- tricts. Each has an existing character (commercial and industrial respectively). that must be dealt with in developing a positive community image. 4 . Co !!!!!l e r cia 1 fun c t ion s are 1 0 cat e d p rim a r i 1 yon Federal Highway, East Ocean Avenue, and N. E. 2nd Avenue. The two nodes formed by the intersection of these roads represent current potential loca- tions to develop a community identity. Presently the importance of these crossroads is not reflected by the existing distribution of commerical uses. 5. Most office uses are located in the vicinity of Ocean Avenue near the Federal Highway intersection. The lack of an office employment concentration is a major reason for a lack of a viable downtown commercial core. 6. Auto service stations are located on the west side of Federal Highway; none serving northbound traffic on the eas t side. C-2 7. Heavy ~mercial ~ are concentrated west of the railroad, and north of 2nd Avenue in what was once p~imarily a residential area. As piecemeal re- development continues, special consideration should be given to buffering of adjacent residences. 8. Four Motels are located in the CRA, all fronting on Federal Highway, with three on the east side and one on the west side. One motel abutts the CRA on the east side of Federal Highway. 9. Two Churches have prime locations: the Congre- gational Church between Ocean Avenue and 2nd Avenue, and St. Marks fronting the mangroves. 10. The five ~~all residential areas existing within the redevelopment boundar ies need to be pro tected through land-use controls and screening or else require resident-relocation. 1). The Harbor Hall Inlet Condominiums north ~the mangroves is a healthy neighbor- hood. 2). A deteriorating group of stucco cottages west of St. Marks ChurCh offers a prime opportunity for development. 3). ~ declining neighborhood near N.E. l~th Avenue (in a C-2 zone) is recognized by the Palm Beach County Department of Hous- ing and Community Development as an area needing p~blic assistance. 4). ~!!!.! sin g 1 e fa!!!.i.!I. h o!!!!..! sou tho f 0 c e a n Avenue and west of' the railroad (in a C-2 zone) show unstable signs of transition to commercial uses. 5). !!! isolated neighborhood north of Pence Park is beginning to turn commercial, evidence of existing C-3 zoning. 11. Three city parks are scattered within the CRA with- out interconnecting paths or greenways. These include: 1) Bicentennial Park - a formal passive recre- ational park located on Federal Highway. c-s 2) Ocean Avenue Park - a small urban open space on Ocean Avenue. 3) Pence Park - an active recreational community park isolated in the south end of the CRA. Access to Pence Park via S. E. 5th Avenue (a minor road crossing th. railroad) enables easy walking access to this major park from western residential areas, compared to the other parks. 12. lh! variety of vacant land, vacant buildings and intermixed land uses scattered throughout the CRA detracts from the ability of Boynton Beach to form a positive Community Identity. The many breaks in bui ld ing facade continui ty along downtown streets combined with undefined architectural character and intermittent commercial uses does not provide a comfortable defined space through which to ei ther walk or drive. STREETSCAPE ELEMENTS 1. An Architectural Cohesiveness does not exist. 2. Landscaping of streets, parking, open spaces and lot-line buffers is rare and fragmented. The little greene~y existing is located mainly around newer structures, reflecting recent code enforce- ment. A streetscape program could do much to add an element of continui ty throughout the communi ty despite the lack of a cohesive architectural state- ment. 3. !!~~~! f~~~iture is severely lacking, and is another opportuni ty to provide continui ty through use of not only visual, but functional repetitive elements. 4. Existing signage, like the present architecture, lacks visual cohesiveness. The signage varies greatly in its placement, mounting size, form, color and copy style. An opportunity exists to use signage as an element of continuity to create com- munity character by controlling its visual design aspects, beyond the present enforcement of struct- ural and size controls. s. Significant public views of landmarks or the water- front, are presently ~acking to provide a sense of orientation, or establish an identity for "Boynton Beach". C-4 In summary, Boynton Beach does not presently have cohes~ve land- use patterns and streetscape elements to form a definitive Com- munity Idehtity. Of the many "individual characters" belonging to specific areas, (such as the Marina, the Federal Highway commerical strip, or the industrial zone) none emerges as a viable Community Image that provides a strong "Sense of Place" C-5 ..:.~n~OIr. \J-':' r f 1 Ex is': i n~] W ate r 0 i s t rib uti 0 n S y s t e m c " J I J I 1:, ~ ~ ,~ BOUlTON ,.' ,-...;:; ~" !i ... '.. It. ., .' ;" .... ... i:/I · .. M1 f ~:, ,," " .. L-.,.: " t '... .. r //~1 \ I ., I I' I f7 n d!' >.' I : t I , ::::::~l'l ll"';:'~~~:;;:.w, -' ; !'tI)/: / (0 ,;. W' '.w .." , . ~ ... .~. . ,,:. J J" fj -"[ ~ E:U~ ~' ~ c: r ,:/,.. l ( ,~~ j.... ',' I U ., ... .. :. t:t', t. f · - w' ..w ... ff=lJ - r ,.. fl [ I ... L..Y~; - n 'u - 1\ I [EJ, .. r.../AJ ~ U A~. -J : : .f/Wj ! I, ::J . ,r I Dr l-" .. [ I ~ -L" ~.... II . J '.0 ~: ~ &VI,.. .. JCJR: _ i' . Jr==J8~ _1: JL.. ",1_ J[ 1..:._ J[ .: .. ...!.... JL:],... ] [ ==:J ~_, ~CI ---, r-- ~ : _J II C .0.. a.[ .." ,.. ,,,, I L i- !; . . ,. I "', . .. . i ~ = .. <lC.A11 ~ t: 'I ~ ~ '-- , . . . .. :l~ ~ ~ ~, ~ . . ,00 .., ; \ :~ ~- .. . c. 1.1 ''Ie w' ... ~ . . I . - .. ~ ~ ~ 7 -;j .. .. C'N'~ - ~ I ----l -,- i I:: I I L \ :. I i I I . I I'" ~. I I L I I L I i .. J II . ... 0 . .. .. . ,. .' z " . I . .. ... ~lt a " i 1 . ... I [~ I I J I . . ... .., ,... Boynton Beach Community Redevelopment Area C-8 /1 .. ~ [~ "... =:...--::=.:=--=--"'":" l::::'~' i ILJ I ..... ............ .......... .........., r .. _ ...-L_....._.-- . _ ,..,..-_c.....__ . ...... __L._,.__ I - v 'l - . ~... - -- L ,. .,- r. > ... .. el :-: :. '7 ...~ ~ ~, - .A - - ,-"""', ':::'J ~pa '~ - . .-....;,. ~.. --.... .. -~ ~ - - -_.- 3 -:: ~~ -=-,,: \~-~ ~~ k~~~~ ,~~ (:;},.:j ~..~~~>)'\ I ...,IV-..!";>," 1 ~,~ ,~- , ~ ~. ~ _~~; ,(' ,~,.... ~ :..:...:'. t-----O: :~-.~'..'. ." J C' '-, ,., ~ ~' ,; '__ l-'-' ____ ~ ~- 1 ;~.;~ ~t ,,~ ' -;-_-::" . ,;::" ~. :L ; . ' '_:" ';X -. f . ~ -;.. - 'J J I . ~.. l' Ct. .1 . .;' .; [1 . .+~}~ .= .- - .- . - ~;.. " - ~ ' ' , . ._~-":;'. .1.~."._'-:" I '.:;':~~~ ~,..~ , t"". 'J ,..v;.................. F-6 Boynton Ca~ LR ---- .. C 'I. A. r--- \ ,..I . I I I .r-, ilHR · ~.~.---._._~ I L.r- ~. -, \ \ i i i I 1 I 'to' Io. ~ .. Future Land Use Outside of Downtown Center Boynton Beach Community Redevelopment Area . I I.,. ... ...... ....... ""... c.......... ...- ....-.\_ _ ....... ........ ...... . ..__ ........ 0... ...... ..... ........ . ...c......._. ......... _...... .. ....... ,. ...... . c... ,.....- ......... ........... c.. . ft."'. ......... ... ......~. ...,.,. t_................ l' 1.-- o 101 100 KEY LI Light Industrial GC General Commercia LR Local Retail HR Residential High density MR Residential Moderate density REC Recreation caD Downtown Center (Central 6usiness District) .:.:.:..:.:-; ............ ........... .,..It...... ........... Areas with I use cnange: EJE] D Exhibit F-2 ;::-~ L 0 c a 1 r eta i 1 use 5 0 f a s I i 9 h t 1 Y mo rei n ten sea n d f 1 e x. i b 1 e character than presently ex.isting. are proposed for the area near H.E. lOth Avenue. Such land uses are appropria~e to serve both the adjacen"t residential and light industrial areas, while acting as a transition bet~een them. Care in protecting adjacent residential neighborhoods from potential adverse impacts of commercial and industrial uses should be exercised through appropriate performance standards. Study ~ ls Properties fronting on Boynton Beach Blvd. are proposed to be included in the Downtown Center due to high visibility (also for similar properties in Study Area 1). Properties at the southern end of the study area are recommended to keep the Moderate Oensity Residential uses presently ex.istlng, since the area transitions Into a major residential neighborhood to the southwest and lacks frontage on a major roadway limiting commercial potential. Properties north of S.E. 1st Avenue are recommended to develop local retail uses 0' a slightly more Intense and flexible character than presently existing, in order to make use of the excellent land assemblage opportunities available that enable frontage on Ocean 'Avenue and relatively good access from Boynton Beach Blvd. and Federal Highway. Commercial uses should not be permitted to encroach into or impact the adjacent residential areas. Studx Areas ill' General commercial uses presently exist and are proposed to be continued. These uses are appropriate for location betweeen the FEC railroad and U.S. 1, a major corridor. Land assemblage opportunities are limited due to the relatively shallow parcels a 1 0 n 9 t his 2000 I 1 0 n g S t rip, I i m I tin g 1 and use flex I b I 1 I t Y . A I 1 future development will have high visibility and should. therefore, be conducive to setting a positive Image for drivers entering the downtown. R~sidential property values to the west of the F.E.C. railroad should be enhanced and protected. Stud~ Area 2.' These properties show signs of commercial encroachment Into what was once a predominantly residential neighborhood. Many large vacant parcels exist that enable land assemblage opportunities appropriate for'the proposed further development of local retai 1 uses. The existing local retail land use designation and commercial zoning properly reflect this areas relative inappropriateness for residential development Development should consider the high visibility of parcels fronting U.S. 1 and be designed to set a positive image for drivers entering the downtown. surrounding residential property values should also be enhanced and protected. F-~ Studt ~ i: A reduction in land use intensity to local retail Is proposed for this existing commercial area to ensure that future development. (land uses. operating hours. traffic patterns. building heights. etc.) are compatible with the highly valued residential area to the ",est. Commercial development is appropriate along this highly section of U.S. 'and should be conducive to setting a image for drivers entering the downtown. vis i b Ie positive Land assemblage opportunities are shallo.... parcels along this 2000' flexibility. I imited due to the relatively long strip, limiting land use FUTURE LAND USE IN THE DO~NTO~N CENTER A~ sho",n in Exhibit F-3. the Oo",nto",n Center Plan identifies eight land use classifications and the areas most suitable for those uses. In most cases. these designations have been located to complement or intensify existing land uses, to maximize site opportunities, and follo", the overall Market Strategy. The eight land use classifications proposed area Loca 1 Reta il /Bus i ness Specialty Retail/Entertainment Specialty Retail/Entertainment/Marina Office/Business Recreation/Open Space Mixed Use Institutional Residential T....o major Specialty Retail/Entertainment areas are proposed to capital i~e on the ",aterfront amenity. One Is located at the existing marina which should continue to operate charter fishing boats and provide dockspace adjacent to new shops and restaurants. The second is located at the existing Boynton Beach Pla~a and entails rehabilitating the existing structure to provide private shops and restaurants over-looking a newly created ",aterfront Publ ic Park and Pla~a (designated as Recreation/Open Space inclu- sive of the Mangrove Preserve). T",o newly introduced land-use areas proposed include a Mixed Use area with a hotel. as the principal use and a High-DensItY Residential area. Both areas relate strongly to the ....aterfront amenity and are supportive of the adjacent specialty retai l/entertalnment uses. F-8 ... .,- : j' , The Office/Business area encompasses the 2 primary ~ffice buildings already in the do....nto"'n. the First Financial Cent~r and the Florida Coast Bank. Opportunities should develop for another office structure and/or a parking garage to be built. both cen- trally located in the Do....ntown Center. The Local Retai l/Susiness sector should flourish as spin-off gro....th complementary to the major ....aterfront development. The Residential and Institutional areas at the northern extreme of the Downto",n Center reflect uses likely to remain and expand in their existing locations including St. Marks Church and School. LAND USE STRATEGY FOR THE DO~NTO~H CENTER Redevelopment in the Downto....n Center should encourage land uses that maintain and improve accessibility to the ",aterfront and avoid 'I....alllng off" ....aterfront vle....s or access. Activities that are on or In closest proximity to the water should principally be eating and drinking establishments, pedestrian oriented specialty retail shops, marina uses, recreational uses, and pUblic uses. Ideally a hotel facility and a high density residential project should be located to provide ",aterfront views. The Land Use Classifications in Exhibit F-3 were allocated based on an over-all Market Strategy for land uses that applies to that portion of the Downtown eenter that lies east of U.S. 1, south of the northern eRA boundary, and north of or fronting on East Ocean Avenue. F-10 The uses listed below apply to this area and are broken down more specifically than the use-elements in the Land Use Classifications. (a) High density residential. (b) Public uses such as an auditorium, bandshel I, community center, etc... (c) A major tourist lodging facility to help enhance the district's indigenous market as well as the city's position In the regional tourist industry. (d) Marina and recreational uses. ( e) Retail trade activities should be limited to high goods and stores which can create pedestrian traffic. Include but are not limited to, volume These Eating and drinking, Including outdoor dining Apparel and accessories Drugstores Jewelry, leather, antiques and art Sporting goods Home furnishings and accessories Gifts, novelties, books -- and newstands Specialty food stores Theatres, playhouses and similar entertainment (f) Services should be limited to those which serve as a convenience to the community and those which help generate secondary shopping activity. These include. but are not I imited to. Professional services Financial services Travel Hair and Beauty Other services, such as auto service, appliance repair, laundromats, etc., should be located elsewhere In the eRA. F-11 J .~ :I ". . "t_, ~iJ.~ , .~1 ~~# owntow~oynton Beach . ~ Redevelooment PI Major Projects an T"', .I.A .. .",.".. ....,....". "'""~ l. '1""'''' ,"" ." '.41........ t · ....,...". wit" · ....1111. . ..I..U.... tll ,... '..'.11 . tI......." "'1. F-12 MAJOR PROJECTS PROPOSED Three major development projects are proposed as illustrated in Exhibit F-4. , ) A ~ATERFRONT PUBLIC PARK/SPECIALTV RETAIL/RESIDENTIAL PROJECT would redevelop the existing Boynton Beach Plaza into a specialty retail/entertainment center focused upon a ne",ly created waterfront Public Park and Plaza. This Public Park and Plaza could almost be considered as a fourth major development project. It represents an exciting opportunity for the City Council to create an outdoor civic center for the benefit of generations to come. It Is Included as part of this multi-use project because of. its strong potential for integration with the proposed commercial redevelopment and new residential uses. The multi-family residential project would orient on this waterfront amenity and support the adjacent retail development economically. Parking to serve shoppers and residents should be carefully coordtnated with parking facilities adjacent to St. Marks. 2 } A HOTEL PROJECT would help to enhance the Downtown Center's Tndegenous market as ",ell as the Clty's position In the regional tourist industry. The Hotel would be ideally located overlooking both ",aterfront amenities. the marina and the mangrove. The Hotel would also have a well recognized Boynton Beach Blvd. address with high vtsiblllty from the proposed intracoastal bridge and be centrally located to support both specialty retail development areas. Parking to service the hotel guests will have to be carefully coordinated with adjacent office parking allocattons. 3 ) A MARINA PROJECT would Intensify the popularity of the existing marina by adding specialty retail shops and more restaurants Ideally located for patrons to enjoy the dally fishing and boating activities. Dry storage and repair services may be able to be located under the proposed bridge to provide space for retail shops on the existing piers. A Civic Center (auditorium, theatre, band-Shell, etc.) Is also proposed overlookln~ a water'ront plaza In a location easily accessible to Hotel guests. The day and night pedestrian activity associated with entertainment functions Is Ideal next to a Hotel where a feeling of safety In an unfamiliar town Is Important. Parking to serve the marina area should be carefully coordinated ",ith adjacent office parking but will mainly be served by the addition of a public parking lot on the dead-end 9f Ocean Avenue. F-13 T~o of the three major projects proposed encompass s>ecialty retai l/entertainment uses. The reason for this emphasis is to provide an increased retai I trade attracted by a waterfront amenity, w~lch is important for a strong diversified downtown economic base. It is also important in sustaining the do~ntown as a pedestrian-oriented district ~ith activity throughout the day and evening (assisted by entertainment uses). The creation of new specialty retal I and restaurant opportunities should spark interest and investment In the downto"," as a shopping area and help promote tourist trade. The CRA should actively pursue the development of such uses. Project Phasing The phasing for the project(s) cannot be formulated at this time since a number of factors will affect the project(s), such as: 1) The ability to attract investors for a major redevelop- ment project. 2} Timing of land assembly. 3) Capacity for funding, especially tax Increment financing. 4) The completion of the Boynton Beach Boulevard Bridge. S) Business cycles CIRCULATION Since much of the circulation system is interrelated ",ith other aspects of do",ntown redevelopment, only major circulation pat- terns ~ithin the downtown ",ill be discussed here. Other elements of the system are discussed in the Pedestrian Streetscape Program. Exhibit F-S illustrates primary and secondary right-of-ways and those right-of-ways proposed to be added or removed from the circulation system. A major premise of this plan is that the proposed Boynton Beach Blvd. Bridge over the Intracoastal wi II be Implemented. Only one other R.O.~. is proposed to be added (north-south between the First Financial Center and the proposed mixed-use/hotel site). This additional link will complete an Important loop necessary to service future traffic associated with development of the Marina. Locating this new link as close as possible to the First Financial Center will permit the greatest development opportunities associated ",ith the Marina. R.O.W. 's shown as removed Illustrate those opportunities available to abandon R.O.~.'S In order to consolidate parcels for the needs of larger developments. Four of these removedR.O.~.'s are suggested for traffic safety associated with railroad crossings and include portions of S.E. 4th Street and three R.O.W.'s running parallel to the F.E.C. Railroad (including where Railroad Avenue Intersects Boynton Beach Blvd.). Abandonment of these R.O.W.'s should only be approved for projects substantially meeting the objectives of this Redevelopment Plan. F-14 C3 R2 .r.:-.'"'f: -.-- ,~2--! _ !~ BOytllOft C.anal _ __ _ __ I l_J R1AA . PLi~ 1~ i r"'~'U"'h'h'__"h"'___"'h""U'hh"h'" r- .., , f: 7 ! ',~ [I- ~ ,i _ ! . R3 r-/ I ..u ......_~ \ \ R'A ~.. 'u" . a 10'. ~ ;"'C2 . .-.,,.-- ~d / . ,I ,I-I r 'i , ~ i ==I i i- ' f I i __ - f ;..- I '" I 'I -, L',.-1 M"~ - i. i:'''-'.'-l' ~2 1 -n, I !'.::-i'__:~j'liiiiIi'__~ I ! 'c4 r ~t- '!i ~ , ! r!: ! : / ' ~n 9F r f ....1 R3 " ;~r _ [! ~iLI _-.. d ~ ere - ~\ ." I - _ .....-.,-- - R:Ji] RS : -=+.....~ ,~i ~ \ .c ,.... -- ,~, I 'I -----:l-.... t . II i I "R3l'! ~ 1~~lr ........ ~;1 ;=' ~ ..i ~ · ., ,: I 1 :: \ IF I ....c .... t .,' t--! ! I \ f' - ....., 1I0W .. ;1 1 I kj'l j = ::'"":;'YII~o; 'I. :1'. .. 1: ~ I \ \~;exhlblt F-5 .... "......1I0W'<: ..... .. j ~ '~: VEHICULAR CIRCULATION R 1A j ; . Boynton Beach , I Community Redevelopment Area h'UU"'~';' ; I REC '~. ..: ;; ___'r :~ ~ i '_ -----: \ ! M1 ! ~~' I t1 II'" If ~ R2 ~~ C3 ~ If' f. . / " "-,, '\ , R1A \: \: I J L ! ----1- a.r : 1 ! f I ; II I ~~ ffill I I i..~.-i Ii I" i .......l..,'!,... ..... 1/... " I I : \ ..... I R3 Key ....UOOI "'~ .. 't' ............ ,...........- .... .......\... - ......~ r'" ...... ........ ...... . ...... _... 0... ,...... 11- ..... ...... . ~... ........"........-- -.-- - ='::=':'.~'.:~== . I" He ........ \. ...... .................... F-.. ::. d- PARKING SYSTEM Exhibit F-6.i11ustrat~s a parking concept that provides an integrated system of conveniently located, visible. and readily accessible off-street parking areas in the Downto",n Center. The proposed special treatment of parking lots will help Identify the Downtown Center as a special place distinctive from the rest of the City. The parking concept provides for limited mid-block entrances to parking lots which would be identlffab1e by distinctive slgnage. landscaping. lighting. etc. By 'Imltlng parking lot entrances cur b and me d I an cut S are In I n Iln I zed , t r a f fie sa' e t y Improved and roadside landscaping opportunities Increased. The parking concept for the Oo",ntown Center also locates parking behind building masses in consolidated b10ck aggregations to a1.'ow a continuous active retai1 facade to front along pedestrlan-sca1ed streets. This Is especially true In the local retail/business areas west of U.S. 1 and south of Ocean Avenue. Parking lots east of U.S. 1 and north of Ocean Avenue are located more adjacent to the street since they serve uses that IIfront" on the water amenity and ttback" onto the street (I .e.. the Boynton Arcade, the Hotel. the Mixed-Use Center). In these areas existing land use patterns have been established whiCh constrain the development of pedestrian-scaled streetscapes. In order to service succes~ful redevelopment a parking garage may be ultimately required. The illustrative plan suggests a central location to the west of the First Financial Center. This proposal envisions some combination of land swaps and joint use that would result in more convenient parking for the three major deve10pment projects proposed. One unique parking opportunity may exist in the area under the proposed new bridge. The bridge's rapid Incline and prior construction would create a substantial area avallab1e for general or marina oriented parking. Boat storage/parking or other commercia1 marina functions may a1so be possible. In any event, this area represents a resource whiCh should be considered when specific development plans are being prepared. Discussions with D.O.T. should occur to establish the extent and avallabl11ty of this 'and area. ~-16 '- \1:'7 " . . . , .t ; KEY ~ Mldbloc Parking . Entranc ~ Parking ~ . J ~ ;/ )J '-.' ~~./1 . ~1 ~ \r__ ~ I: - Beach "'Ian - Boynton 10 ment ... - Redeve wntown System Parking DO II 'bit , .ft')' ."'. tII It r..'..... ,.,.,all r~l. .,.. .. ..,.... Ia ..ulolUI .ItA .,... ...., ftl ....., t , '''I ... F 6 ......... ..,..u.... hi bl' t - ......1.....' Ex F ...-;- - 1 . PEDESTRIAN AND STREETSCAPE PROGRAM The intent of a Pedestrian and Streetscape Program Is to improve the image of Boynton Beach and make the do",nto",n a more attrac- tive, pleasant and identifiable place. The carefully designed addition of pedestrian amenities such as crosswalk/walkways, street furniture and directional slgnage will enable visitors and residents alike to view the downtown as a unique and inviting area of the City. The Pedestrian System. illustrated in Exhibit F-], consists of two distinct, but related systems. 1) the Public/Private Pedestrian System which incorporates public access through private property and. 2} the Public Pedestrian Streetscape System along major roadways where the greatest concentration of foot- traffic Is to be encouraged along a fairly continuous retail facade. Program elements Includel 1} The improvement of the side",alk system to achieve a consis- tent streetscape vocabulary ",hich visually ties together the diverse segments along the major corridors by using, special paving or markings (at major Intersections, crosswalks, and sidewalks which are part of the major pedestrian system crosswalks (with ramped sidewalk landings extended into on-street parking areas) street furniture (seating, trash receptacles, bollards, bus shelters) luminaires landscaping of slde",alks and medians median extensions and curb re-deslgn (to minimize curb cuts and left turns and provide more space 'or median }andscaping) bicycle path system integrated Into the design of sidwalks, on-street. parking, and curb cuts to avoid pedestrian conflict with bi~ycles. The greatest concentration of these pedestrian Improvements should occur along vlsable street frontages In the Downtown Center to emphasize retail continuity. Street frontages In- cluded In the proposed major pedestrIan system are shown in Exhibit F-]. In areas outside of the Downto",n Center, the above streetscape Improvements should be limited to principally landscaping (on both sides) to achieve streetscape continuity from a vehicular perspective. F-18 , ... . ; "-=1 ~~~; 1 . - '-W 1~. " . ; i ; 2) The visual quality of parking lots and visibility of access points should be improved by. creating Identifiable mid-block entrances (minimizing curb~cuts) locating parking lots behind buildings along the major pedestrian system to provide a continuous pedestrian el\vironment and to emphasize retail facade continuity. creating through-block pedestrian arcades connecting parking areas to retail frontages providing landscaping (with coordinated design for private property and the pUblic streetscape) 3) The construction of waterfront pub~ic plazas at civic and retail nodes should create spaces that act as focal destina- tion points of the major Pedestrian System. Boynton Beach Plaza linking the pedestrian system at the proposed Cove (outdoor restaurants, seating, preserved trees in open grass areas, programmed cultural activities, fishing pier, dock space, and a boardwalk promenade with an educational interpretive system of the Aquatic Preserve) Civic Plaza at the Marina adjacent to the CivIc Center (trees, seating, water or sculpture feature). 4) The implementation of a street graphics program. 5) The implementation of a commercial facade renovation program. 6) A systematic undergrounding of all aerial utility facilities throughout the core area Is recommended coinciding with a block by block implementation of the Streetscape Plan. OPEN SPACE SYSTEM ExhibIt F-8 shows two related open space systems. The primary system encompasses major open space available for publIc access, especIally those relating to the waterfront. The secondary system includes the open space created along the public and private Pedestrlan/Streetscape System. A major element of the Open Space System Is the recommended development of a new outdoor civIc plaza as part of the fIrst major project proposed (see page F-13). ThIs new urban park and plaza would replace the largely ceremonial and little used Bicentennial Park which Is recommended to be abandoned. Bicentennial Park should be retained as an urban open space, ho",ever. until the development of the new ",aterfront plaza is assured. F-20 ~I ... . , 't_. ~~~~ , ..;_t '" - Beach Plan Boynton 10 ment Redeve Downtown ce System Open Spa . ....Ibl' t. r..r...". .II'Y.::'III T"I. .t." II ,..t."ft'."~' ...I).,oIA,,', .~:".ne.... .,... ..", ... · to' 't F- 8 "00'.. Obi.''''. E h,"bl f...............ftl X F-21 r The proposed waterfront Publ i~ Park and Plaza is envlsionec as a major element in the cityOs Parks and Recreation Program. the site should be designed to accomodate band concerts, art shows and festival! such as the BoynLon Gala. In a highly visible location. the plazas' design should reflect the quality of life in Boynton Beach and evoke enormous Community pride. To complement the open space system, the Plan strives to preserve significant trees that exist within the redevelopment area and provide additional shade trees and canopy features in pedestrian areas. The most significant group of trees to be preserved exist on an old nursery site where the ~aterfront Publ ic Park and Plaza at the Cove is proposed to be located. Other major trees exist in the Ocean Avenue City Park, near the City animal shel- ter, and in Study Area Five. BUFFER SYSTEM The proposed Buffer System illustrated in Exhibit F-9, is designed to limit visual impacts on residential areas caused by commercial use and the F.E.C. Railroad. The system also screens the railroad and industrial development from new commercial development in the Oo",ntown Center. Other impacts, such as noise and light, may also be reduced by the Buffer System. but visual results will be the most significant. The Buffer System can be installed as a landscape screen alone or combined ",ith wal I or fence elements for a more effective Buffer (depending on the specifics of each site). Development Guidel ines with associated enforcement mechanisms to guarantee proper design, installation, and maintenance should be formulated and instituted (especially for the buffer in Study Area Six separating the backside of commercial development from the highest housing values abutting the Redevelopment Area). F-22 .,.-;--. -' i ~ Boynton Canal --'-<.' . .., ------ - -1. i ,:; - :' :1 .. -.. :.1-' -f :j-~ :i-- -.~ #- -:: ~ ~ -- -.- "'[ 'O'A&.,_n -::: N' 10--.-'------' _ _.. ---.-- --~ - .,--..!:.... ---- -- i~-!~: I~ I .-- IU ~ !D!ni:'~~./ III( 'e".. ~/~:=:!! / .""'"-. t-I j l-~':! ! '1 -"'0" i~ IIE~ ' G ~o'';-i.SC~; f1 ....... ,"/ .' 'rT1. 1 I: I I' UJ . .-.-.-....-.-._...a :.....-1 ... I I ' - . ~,... · ':=m- I - I ~ I. ' , ---'r---...;, I e:..... I -/"/' ~ " I' , I' 'I ~.i--'o'I"---JCJ'/I I '~ I,";:' ... =/: ' ~ i --, N I '" ..J . : ',' r, , .. 1l:l::I!m'. ~! I : i . /i"IOlJ' J:C r ~: I' " ; .- '. 'I I _ (==!f ~ ~ . ~ ~b ~---, L; I : ~~~ ~ - . 0 I ,i ;::=;,. 6 I ~ ' , I .=:J,~' 'I - / , ! Ib!==i; U ,. oS / I I i:;s:if h , ! i 4/ /1 ; ~ I i I I j i I ; ;, ,I" - I' i I J. I - FI' I I ' 'fffS" · "'0:0"080Y"'0" '!..I....!:!..!.. r-- . ,-. III I 11II. .. _ B_Ae" BlvG. d: :!-U .1 11"11 I : ! II I i'.[[[j I' · '~ITBLLII:, ..LJ UW;co".-i I D 'i:11 I ; I I ~ i ' :=::lp" J:J [OJ i .JJ.l_._.i::~~:~~/'aa. 10 Do R....o..a =4: ITJn OIJIJ: :' =ffJUJ ~-H ~tJ ~ c:al. ~j I if " ~----t.. :"" I , I '..' !' (.. 'W' ,./ ~ I 1- ;- '- r---- .,..... / Proposed Buffer System 1 I , Boynton Beach _--1 " i Community Redevelopment Area .. II'" '"/1 ~I !,.,..... __ a_. c_ _.._ ,..... , ill . I ~ I I ..- ........ ...-. . ..- -... 001' /10; . I ! = "-::.:::-:~~:;':::.: '-'" .....-. I I ~- . ................. c.. . ....... '....... S I 't~". f .__________ 0 100" .. ~.. L ....,. 1__............. " 1:'1~:~n!n' ! Exhibit F-9 'I' IW W I I F 23 i (f' - -'Ii I b Plan Implementation G INTRODUCTION In many instances. the success of redevelopment will be predi- cated on the"community bel iet in the potential of the Community Redevelopment Area. This belief is manifested in implementation programs designed to stabi I ize. create, enhance and/or reassure the market forces to ensure an economically viable plan for implementation. The Community Redevelopment Act, Chapter 163, Florida Statutes, establ iShes a framework of needs, tasks. goals and minimum Griteria for redevelopment plans and sanctions the financing mechanism known as Tax Increment Financing (T1F). Ho~ever, the redevelopment strategy is much more comprehensive than any two (2) financing mechanisms, ~nd a TIF prQgram alone wi I I not yield desired results. The community leadership will determine the successes and fai lures of a comprehensive redevelopment program. This section outlines the leadership role that the CRA should undertake and describes the methods and techniques that are available to both the CRA and City Council and that will enable the City to achieve its Redevelopment Plan objectives. The critical policy tasks to be undertaken by the CRA fall into the general categories of attracting investment to the downtown, guiding physical improvements, and supporting and extending the effects of these reinvestments. To achieve this program, the CRA ~il 1 need the support and guidance of the City Council, assistance from City departments, and technical expertise from its own staff and consultants. The various components of the plan will be undertaken step by step, with tlmi~g and progress being dependent on funding and the success of the Initial steps. The day to day administration and leadership to accomplish the Plan's goals will come from the CRA as the implementing body for the City Council. The eRA will be expected to mobilize the teChnical staff necessary to enhance the existing city personnel in order to implement the Redevelopment Plan. Of particular importance wi 1 I be the CRA1s role in encouraging private sector participation for implementing the plan, and its ability to work with programs that can accomplish private sector investment, ~hile the ultimate decisions to approve or undertake a specific action, such as the abandonment of rights-of-way, often lies within the City Council. the significance of an aggresive eRA involvement in the decision making process cannot be overstated. CRA MANAGEMENT To support and increase the impact of many individual redevelopment efforts, management ~ill be needed. Such tasks as promotion, improving security, recruiting new businesses, and ensuring a ~el I maintained environment are important to support a reinvestment program. These elements are particularly important in support of an expanded urban area. Management is required in at least three general useSl ~ ~ 1) ?romotion, including specia' events, advertisin<J, and scles. 2) :.oministration, including record keeping. maintenance, and security, 3) Bus i n e s s d ev e lop men t , i n C 1 U din g 1 e a sin 9 . ( w her e a p p I i cab 1 e ) sa1.:s, market research and attracting new tenants. Through this plan, management is keyed as important in the overall success of the plan as proposed herein. In that regard, the Community Redevelopment ~gency must develop short, medium and 'ong range goals. Objectives, policies and programs all designed to achieve the ultimate end: a vital, successful, economically productive urban community of ~hich the citizens can be proud. The eRA must, therefore, use this document as a bench mark from ....hich to develop additional teChnical reports which will be designed for a specific implementation (i.e., old town/special taxing district improvements). CRA MANAGEMENT AND COORDINATION To fully develop a comprehensive redevelopment program the CRA must closely coordinate with the City Council with respect to ongoing ordinance development and existing regulatory functions, presently sponsored by the City. Areas with immediate opportunities for implementation are as follows. ~~~~~~~!i~~ ~~~~: As proposed the Community Redevelopment Plan is consistent with the currently adopted Boynton Beach Comprehensive Plan. The City should, however. at the time of the Comprehensive Plan update, consider the redesignation of land in Study Area 6 from General Commercial to a less intensive designation suCh as Office C omme rei a I . ""'" ^ \::-:.:::; R2 C3 -r.~.., C2 ; i ~ ......-....-r: j · i : I: 1 R1AA · .-Jl !-- ,. .......-...-....-.----.....-..-...........- -b..- =t =t R1A 80VftlQft e..... R3 / , r ~ C2.1 ~~~l~f - :'.: :::~:;>,," ir v n'To". .~Ffii:1/ ~.. 'R~......LC c4i~ .ru D:III:E. Irr ,.1--;:-- , ~-~ nrntr"W~~, ."":.-==: ' 't:===,pu~Ree ,;>>1,- r":~" !H-- .~ ................-.-..................-..--.--......;. - -j ;;. ., ,..; R1A ,;\ . [~-j: , '-- R3 I- I i ..... .'" at , . ~ ' . ~ : : ~ i , ",... . . _._.. I R3 ~ '; I iF3 I I. . ~.. · ...... ...... ~a..-:~ ~ -.----.- 1" I' ....... ~JFf~!~~ i~ IP.-.-._.n.._.. ~C"-"~! - ,. ...goo R3 ,i \1 -1:.- 5. ! ! I - ,....-.-.-...1 ! It. I : I' \ .it-" II! ... -Ill - :1 .il . 1\\ Zoning 'i\ L Boynton Beach J..'...........-: i\ Community Redevelo~ Area . ......J,,'1,l REC :_ 'ij:.:. 'r ~-::7~--71:;:.::~..:7.":: o. ~ . I- .- -.... .....-...............,~ . . t .__ ...~..........c....-..........-- ,...... l..--......~..-.-.~ 1 aa.. ........"..........-........... - . - - ;..----- M1 : ~ ~. r : R2 \: C3 ~J; .. '. -f " . rPUi -- j .,..... '."MOI' I _... II... I . ... .. "I[ U. ... I. ).... R1A ,. ,.. .. G-3 ~ Jevel~oment Re~ula:i~~s: :" ~~der to create ~,.,mme,cial "'~des, protect adjace~t "eighborhoodi. encou1"'age mixed-use developme,.,t~ and support a d:versified eco"~mic ~ase the f,,110wing z~ni"g cha"ges a~~ ~ec~mme"ded: ReZ0ne all areas i~ the "Downtown Center", to a special :SD Z0ne that includes residential/mixed use developme"t i" additi~n to the c")mmercial, ~ecreati~nal and amuse~e~t activities prese"tly allowed by code. Provide devel"pme"t fleXibility r"r proJects less than 5 acres-in the C8D. :- h e P 1 ann i n g De par t men t s h 0 u 1 d be ins t r u c t e d to U_u d y_ the pOSSibility "f expandi"g the uses in the C-2 Neighborhood Zoni"g Classification. In addition, in order to establish a proper regulatory frameworK for the CaD zoning referenced above, it is recommend that the existing CaD zoning district provisions in the City's zoning code be expanded to specifically provide for: a greater opportunity for the integration of land uses, inclUding residential tranSferring or clustering of residential density and/"r commercial intensity the preservation of natural resources adherance to a specific set of land development guidelines for the Downtown Center a community design review process developed specifically for the Downtown Center the coordination of individual redevelopment efforts the creation of public open space and access to the pri"cipal Downtown Center amenity: the waterfront the development of incentives for private i"vestme,.,t and reinvestment I" order to facilitate the planning and design of redevelopment are a pro j e c t s a Lan d ~a v_e lop men t Man u a 1 s h 0 u 1 d be pre p a I'" e d consisting of a c~eferenced development code that includes all regulations and standards that apply to development in the CR~. It should also contain a description at the various incen- tive programs and techniques that are available to the private sector for CRA developments. G-4 r.; . . ,. ; i j . ,I- - '. i/-- 5- ", J- -- Boynton C.naII . . . . , , ,~\ a\ ~ \ 1 I . 'r-' .-.-.---.----- , , --- . .. .. ~11ll". l .. . t .. . l ;; ;; . : I I I : I I oS I I --' ... 1..... ---, :---; I \ I \ \ ' ~.u .----Jl ! ~O I. 0..... .II. ., ~ .! .oJ =4~ J TI J i ~-I Boynton Beach 11"'-;:---= ff, ; \ . I j -i Community Redevelopment Area ~! I I -- -~ .11""'-' ~==:-.:'::-.".'.=7"::"'71:;.'" I \ E-" ..-. _M. ...... . ............ ............ , I ; ....... .. ........ · ...... . c-- .--- \ , I I _ ' ......... .,......... c. .. ....... ........... _._........---.~., 0 \00 tOO .00 __..... ....,. t_____ .......... Ilil!I!\ I I ,wl S I ~..... S I .111I .. I. .... ... / , 80'1"'0" I 0, . to tie Aemo....d C4 to C2 C2 to C3 L r- Various to CaD C2 to C3 """,., .0;-: ::;- ~\ G-5 ~ :nforcement: ~~2:1l~!12~ ~l!hl~ 21!z ~~ll~l~j 1~1E!~!12~ Ql~1112~~ - one mecha~ism to ~elp in achieving rehabilitation is a sensitive code enforcement project that, i" an orderly fashion. inspects existing older buildings to ensure that minimum building standards are maintai"ed. A sensitive code enforcement program (~orKing ~ith building o~ners) will result in renovatio" investment that produces improvements that surpass city minimum requirements, Right-Or-Wax Abandonment: Abandonment of R/W is a proven positive incentive to the private sector for investment in the urban area. Unnecessary R/W can be dedicated back to the developer. thus creating a more flexible design opportunity and realistically reducing land cost. which ~ill positively impact the economics of the project. Referenced in the Text of' the Plan is an immediate opportunity for the CRA to adopt a R/W abandonment policy. ~ Acquisition/Assemblage: An important tool f'or the CRA to utilize is the technique of Land Acquisition and Disposition with the Approval of the City Council to qualified developers for projects deemed consistent ",ith the plan, The assemblage program can be as direct as acquisition and as indirect as sponsoring an appropriate R/W abandonment program, ",hich ",ill serve as an incentive for developers by reducing land Cl)sts. There are a variety of alternatives to secure land fl)r redevelop- ment. CRA direct negotiations with property owners f'or purposes of assembling potential parcels is simple and direct. Established leaders 1n the community, on the other hand. may be able to encourage property owners to pool their holdings, fl)r sale directly to interested developers. In any event. the eRA must be in close contact with key property owners maintaining open lines of communication throughout the redevelopment process. Marketing! Promotion The ml)st visable management responsibility will be that Marketing and Promotion. To a great degree. this ef'fort ~ill the tempo fl)r community support and ~ill be the single important mechanism to inform the community about redevelopment effort. of set most t his G-6 C3 ro~'" c2_i j ---iL- BOY"'on c-. i j~: Ii. --ii I' 0 ,1- -- J... .. t:i a_._ =r "Oit-C2.~~ .t -'... ....... . J:~" L ---~:;...... -l onorr.:/~--=-'~ I~ --.. " ""6. _ _ . 'l. -:-:-.,! . j :r- PU rrr.;ro.:l----. :' f~-- li- ,==- f,', :~ i;= ~..- .-. . ~!7'~ -~I~Ml:i .-~..~ R2 .~ r 11"-- '!.ll'. u......_ . . .,/~ r: - - j-:- - :,:... . C4 :,__t-- .~'-- . - ~ ,I :=-:= UIlI..,--- I ,--'-- c.-- ,'==-= f '=- =-1-=' ..-.-=--t= I=r.::i:: j=:..= I~~C [D:li_ '~I ~b:.. "' _.-.~. ;- "i"~:~l r2- a::m:I - .--- I R3' fC2: i = --l'l, ___L L:REC I . 0...,. ... ........:....... ... t... .......... "6'" !---;, p'.-.-....... '''_0. .".., ;iFj.'..:!~'=--=r . ._~I ~ :, _.- ~ ~ ! r-u-o-._o.l . I 1_. a. I::;;:. - -- - ili -'-1.".., .,/ .' =- .:..:0/1 ---Ii ~AJOR PARCEL OWNERSHIP n::m:E::"- ~ i! - - Ii: Downtown Center 1,-----. f ; . -- - . . -.\ :f -: '.:.... J : .. ,- :1 REC:- .1: 1,. ---.; __ . . _ Ii. 1\ '..I~. _ ",1. '~""i~:'~..~.; . ~ ~ :. ! I' . . R2 " C3 'I~':: : ~: '--'J I . R'A ---- - R1AA R2 R3 . ...-.............. , I If Ii IIrl16 h _ t, 1 _l~L..q... ~ ["h~':'''''' ---. =.,r.-' "._._.,"""",h'~'._iiiiiiii.J I R1A I ~I " ., R3 R1A Boynton Beach Community Redevelopment Area ~ ___"_'__I'-~''''o'_'' ............ ...... . ........ _... ;.. I. U .-- .......... . ......... .. ~. ~. w.. I. -- .. ...... ~. '""'*-......... . _ ....... .......... c.. . ......... ......... . ) ~ 1M .......'" ....,. ._....-... ....... M1 ("-- The first step in coordinating a meaningful Marketing Program, is that of determining the positive aspects of the redevelopment effort. The intra-coastal waterway, reinforced by the suggested plan improvements is the basis upon whi~h to build a successful marketing pr~ram. The New Boynton Beach Boulevard and Bridge improvement program is another key publ icly financed improvement that must be used to promote the public committment to the do",nto",n redevelopment effort. Keying on access, circulation (vehicular and pedestrian) and parking as referenced in the plan. in terms of convenience to the cansumer,will establish a positive base upon whi~h to build this comprehensive marketing effort. The Marketing Strategy must incorporate every possible positive aspect of the urban area, thereby heightening the perceptions of the pub1 ic (both locally and in the secondary market area). The CRA must consider the need far identifying responsiblity of this marketing task to one individual for purposes of coordination. This may be an in-house staff member of the CRA. a City Staff member or, given the importance of this function, a professional marketing consultant. An alternative to CRA day to day implementation of this marketing effort would be to organize the downtown interests into an association which would have, among others. the responsibl ity of developing the marketing strategies. Recommended promotion techniques includea (1) Calendar of Events - Monthly downto",n concerts, and exhibitions~ coupled with a retail sales effort. have proven to be successful. (2) Media Involvement - Radio/TV/Newspaper. developing contacts in each area is essential to information descemenation. (3) Logo/Identity Competition - Involve the community/county in a design competiton. (4) Signage/Graphics Program - Once a graphic logo-identity has been established a program for incorporating this identity on all signage and graphics associated with redevelopment activity should be adopted, e.g. a sign statingl "This project/event sponsored by the Boynton Beach Community Redevelopment Agency." (5) Entrance Identification Program - Keying on entrance identification into the downtown redevelopment area is a relatively inexpensive project that can be implemented immediately. By properly promoting this effort with a "ribbon cutting" ceremony. media involvement and an appropriate logo/signage program the CRA can "kiCk-off" the redevelopment process. G-8 (6) Landscape Improvements - Smal I scale, but immediate. improvements can boost community confidence in the potential of downtown and the significance of the Community Red eve 1 0 p-m en tAg e n c y . I tis r e com men d e d t hat i nit i a I 1 Y these improvements be focused on the corridors leading into the Downtown Center, (7) Slide ~ Program/Speakers Bureau -.~ith or without a slide show program, a speakers bureau available to all interested organizations is a must. (8) Illustrative Graphics - Even before the adoption of specific design guidel ines for the Downtown Center, illustrations of "what could be" can be prepared for public viewing. The exhibition of University of Miami student work is along these lines. PUBLIC IMPROVEMENTS ~ater, Sewer ~ Drainage Improvements In many instances the CRA must address expenditures relating to the upgrading of the general infrastructure system In the redevelopment area. However, Boynton Beach has developed a well through out infrastructure plan which is in place and, therefore, will relieve the CRA from concentrating its funding to upgrade the system. As a result, CRA funding will be able to concentrate on other necessary redevelopment expenditures. Based on the proposed development program for the Downtown Center, an analysis of the impact that the proposed projects would have on water, sewer and drainage services was done to determine the adequacy of existing facilities and/or propose a means of expanding these services to accommodate the projects. For the purpose of this analysis it has been assumed that redevelopment outside of the Downtown Center would not be 0' the same magnitude and that, while redevelopment would often involve the upgrading or replacement of existing structures and uses with newer structures and more economically viable uses, the additional impact on water, sewer and drainage services would not be significant. The analysis concludes that the proposed redevelopment will neither strain existing facilities nor incur improvements. (see following pages, for justification). project costly Electrical Power, Telephone and Natural ~ F.P.&L., Southern Bell and Florida Public Utilities have indicated a willingness to cooperate and assist in the design and coordination of future utility installations and relocations. G-9 Economic and Market Overview B I ~l ':' ROD (J C ':' r 0 ~J This section prov:~es 3~ overvi~w of the economic, m3rket 3n~ fiscal factors that contrib~ted to the formulation of the Rede'Je- lopment Plan and highli~hcs their implications for the redevelo~- ment potential of the Boynton Beach CRA, particularly the Downtown Center. The pri~ary purposes of the economic and market analyses that were undertaken during plan preparation were to es- tablish the underlying objectives and constraints for the Redevelopment Plan and to provide a basis for analyzing the market and financial practicality of the physical components of the plan. The data base that has been developed for this effort includes: 1) Ana~ysis and inventory of competing downtown areas in Delray Beach and Lake Worth. 2) Analysis of the tourism industry and tourist faci- lities in Palm Beach County. 3) Analysis of consumer expenditures in Pal~ Beach County. 4) A demographic profile of the Boynton Beach market area relative to other market areas, particularly the market areas of the Delray and Lake Worth down- town districts. 5) Analysis of the fiscal structure of the City of Boynton Beach. 6) Inventory and analysis of existing development in the Redevelopment Area including building and land square footage, assessed value, age of structures, parcel ownership, recent sale value, and other items. 7) Inventory and analysis of building square footage, by type, relative to population levels in various areas of Palm Beach County for comparison with Boynton Beach. :=--' 3) f:n3~=~r.? :~c~~iques for redevelopment. 9) Inventory cf ~arlna facilities in the Boynto~ Beach area. 3-2 SELI~EATION OF STUDY AREAS AND IDENTIFICATION OF THE DOWNTOWN CENTER During early stages of the project, the CRA was disaggregated into several Study Areas which were delineated by analyzing physical and m3r~et characteristics, transportation linkage, lot configuration, and similar characteristics throughout the CRA. This analysis was accompl ished by several field surveys and by analyzing construction trends, real estate values, land use patterns, traffic network configuration and other items. From this analysis it was apparent that there were eight geographic components within the CRA that had distinct characteristics which warranted individual study in order to properly assimilate 'all areas of the CRA into a cohesive redevelopment plan. These eight components were designated Study Areas. (See EXHIBIT 0 - 1). Subsequently, it was determined that the most feasible approach for assimilating Study Areas 1 through 6 into a Redevelopment Plan, given their characteristics, would be to enhance their visual appearance and to establish linkage with a Downtown Center, which in turn would help sustain and enhance their market opportunities. Study Areas 7 and 8 were identified as having the greatest potential for establishing a Downtown Center that would serve as the catalyst for investment and improvements throughout the CRA. The remainder of this section will focus on the Downtown Center. (The goals, objectives, and strategies for each Study Area can be found in a supplement report: Analysis ~ Study ~). e ,... I I I I I I I I , . I I I I I I I , ~ I M ~ 1'1 0 TO: SAM SCHEINER, VICE CHAIRMAN OF THE BOYNTON BEACH REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY FROM: JO ELLEN LEISINGER LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT, URBAN DESIGN STUDIO DATE: MAY 12, 1983 RE: BOYNTON BEACH RAILROAD: ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS OUR REF. '8336DPA -- Historically, railroad tracks and their associated depot stations were the heart of many small towns, pumping the life-blood of food, mail, materials, supplies, and people in and out of the town, generating growth and prosperity for the inhabitants serviced. Commercial strips, industrial service areas and even homes were once located adjacent to and oriented toward railroad tracks, functioning as a focal point of the town's commerce and social life. Unfortunately today, the role of this life-giving arterial system has been taken-over by our major highways such as U.S. '1, caus- ing the city, its buildings, traffic, and people to turn their backs on the railroad tracks while focusing toward the highway instead. With this reversal in attitude and orientation, suddenly, the many environmental impacts caused by proximity to railroad tracks become magnified as negative nuisances. What once provided a focal point of activity and defined neighborhood zones, now dissects the heart of the city into mini districts acting as a psycho- logical, visual, and functional barrier. What once acted as the primary arterial for the movement of goods and people north. and south and generated traffic to and from loading docks, now inhibits modern-day automobile, cyclist, and pe- destrian traffic travelling east and west. H-9 SAM SCHEINER MAY 12, 1983 PAGE 2 What once minimized east - west traffic flow from downtown areas into adjacent residential neighbor- hoods, now inhibits access between the downtown area and these neighborhoods, many changing to a more commercial or light industrial character, and need- ing this access. What once signaled the on-coming train and all of its good-tidings, and added to the lively sounds of downtown during the day, now radiate disturbing loud no i ses v ia horns and c la t ter Ing tracks day and night. What once provided a major visual event to behold, (the daily entrance of the train) and offered the beautiful image of the railroad tracks fading into a natural setting, now provides the eyesore of a weed infested barrier right-of-way. What once offered little danger to the few lightly traveled east - west road crossings, now imposes a safety-hazard to autos, cyclists, and pedestrians alike, due to increased train and human traffic. What once brought materials and goods mainly nOD- hazardous to health, now often carries modern-day chemieals etc. hazardous to human heal tho All of these points reflect the changing role of railroads in urban life. It is a universal problem affecting many commun- ities, inCluding Boynton Beach. The question still remains - How can we eliminate or minimize the negative environmental impacts caused by the existence of a railroad corridor passing through the urban core? 00 we attempt to buffer or screen the nuisances, to change operating hours and methods, or even consider removing the railroad as an element in the community? The issue of rail- roads and their impact on the quality of urban life in Boynton Beach and elsewhere is truely a modern day design and planning challenge worthy of further study. H-10 '.\\Cl--L\El5 'CH\JK.~,H "" \.)~U\.:I.-\TE5, !',-' EQla~b~ ~~~~5 ~GQ ~B~lI6BY ~g~a~g tt2!X.EQQLJ~LJld~J I he c e,mp r E'I "-=,, S 1 v'e pI 211 ;. ':)'- V',.;: ::Q:' II t.cm Be ",.:h C:':'ITlm\.ln 1 t y F:edev ~'l ':'p l-rlt:~'r, t Hr',?,,;. 111Cl'_'c-::::: thE' toll'=""ll'C) <..:.l::tlng :?,r,.j prc,posed l.:-.nd \.\SE<S H1 the [''='Wrl t .:,wn (e,l t. et- : '; p <:: c, t U'" .:. t:.:l:tlr';J ~..~' ~-..' r- :;, ' . I f-.'rq:":'s~'d 1':Jt:d C.I';'",~ lee ",''';-1':',.. '>1)\ I ;'''''.4 51). (.'0(1 S. F. 1 ::::.~ ~ (It)') S'I F: . Y- EO' t c?, 1 1 L 5'). 1,)<Jf) ~. t.. .. 8'). \)(1') S. F . ::':,(1 ~ ')(H) S. F. r-e51dent1al 1 :.:.:>) D. U. 1:0 D.U. ::: ': \'", '::'01 = ,.- : n ~ t 1 t ,_\ i~ 1 on ...;\) ,\)')1_, :,.~... (l :: (l . (I (II) S. F . ;-, c' ': I,:', 1 15(1 Pooms 1 =:1) Foams ::-'I~:.?:~t~-e I ~: :. 'I ], 1.-': 1 :: . <ll)i) ':;. F . 1 :2 . (H) (I S. F . '~~Qf.:~ Ihe ~cope 0+ thl~ ~tud~ 15 to proYIde ~ preconstructlon anal~515 of tr,,::.' t'UtL!I"';2 utJ.lltle'::: lmp,",-ct r:.h.:\t the pre,pc,sEd proJEct ~'Jill h,:",,"e em trH? ,"\1-'2::", In "'lhlCh It 15 to be b'_lilt 2'lnd to enc;L!t-e the a..deql..lac'f .:;,;: ~:~lstlr'9 f0C1lItle5 2nd'or propo5e a fea~lblE and economical me~ns of adequately 5ervlng the project. =g~0IIQ~ ~0Q Q~~~E!EIIQ~ ltle 51te 0+ the proposed Redevelopment Hre~ could be loosely def1ned 2S the area surrounding the 1nt~r5ectiQn of U.S. H1ghwav 1 and Bo~nton 8each Boulevard in downtown Bovnton Geach~ Florlda. 1he apprOX1m~te bcundarl~5 0re the F.E.C. P~ilroad trac~s on the West. r,l. I'::. ~:,tl-, H'h:';IL'O;? on f.r-,e !'I,::.~-tr,. :3. E. 2nd Hvo;>n'.le on i:he South an,j th~; ll" 1: \" ::;,C ':" 2, ~ t :' I 1'1"., t .::'!,.. ,.J <:.. ,:.,., I:. t., ~::' E.;., st. E~I~II~~ EQ10bb~ ~~l~E 00Q ~~~lI~~~ ~EH~B ~QU~!llQ~~ . rhi? e::1=t:lr,..;I ".!.;.tel~ .jt;:;t~"llj'xt.11='n ~'y,=tern 1:: in qood cond1t1c.n ,,',;10 n,;.,;: ~".j e qu, <.1 t e c::;. p C\C 1 t: ',' t: '::. ,; er' ";e t, he Co:: 1 '= tIn q ,:jemands 1 n t he F~r~d e"/,~ i. op m.:n t .,r"'::"". -rh(.~rr:- 1': ',", L:'.' 11"1<::h trurd .T,,;O,:Ln preser,tl)/ proposed bv ttH~ L1tv 0+ [<'::", r. 1: ,:.r', r:l C'.? c:-, 'Alt., 1 c: h ), ~ i':rJ t"'_' r, i r I t to! '? 1',J':Jr t h / '~o\.! t h d i rec t i ':In ..?n.j fl',,=, t- ~ c.r- (:-10 .\tICH.\EL 5 SCHuR-"\H &. ,"\:>:>OCl.\TES, :.'\.. l~s5 ~cut the ~esterly b~wna~r/ OT the Redevelopment Area. lhe 5~nltary sewage colle~tlan sys~em WhlCh presentlY serves the F:edevele:,pment Ar~a is ger,et-:-.ll.i In good conditlon with the e:,:ceptlon of the ':':':'.1" vltrlfled c:l~'1 pipe 'gr?,vity) WhlCh runs along N.E. :2nd Avenue. Re=ent deterl~r2tlon of thlS plpe will most likely warrant rs:'pl::,CEinent In trle ne':'.r .:.}t'.tt"E. Then:~ IS c,r,E nl,:..:ter lltt ::t:;.~lcr, ~lhICt"1 serVES the entlre are",. SaId 11ft 5t~t1on 1S In e~cel1ent ccer",tlng condition and has a deSIgn '::""p,::o.Clt', of ::80:") g,:..llc:.r.r:; P':?'- .T'lr,'_\te ,:..t 116 feet T.D.H. cE~l~hIgQ l~hBgd~~ IU eQI=~~g ~~!~~ Q~~6UQ 1.0fflCt?: ASSLlfne: ~~et. ll::8t.le otflce sp:ace = 5').()(H) sQ. ft. 1) 0.1 gallons per day/sq. ft. 100% occupancy rate Peak factor = 2.0 144.) Inl n'_! tes,' d':',"1 2) ~:. ) 4) \"\.;\/,;. e,i-fice del!ICin.j == '::.1.1 ;: 5(l~()1)() :: \.1.1)/144(; :: ~:..= '~_d2.~[!~ , I 1 .I. . i'o::.t:-ll: rJe't l':?as:o.t'le :pac=: = ::1').1)1)') sq. ft. H~ ~L1.ITle: 1 } ".,2) :::,1 "n 0.1 gallons per dayisq.ft. 100% occupancy rate Peak factor = 2.5 144(1 ffll nut == / d a/y' I'I,:..~'. F'.:?tai 1 Demand = <::.5 :: 8(1. (11)(1 " ').1 i 1144(1 = 1~~2 9:..Q:..m:.. i : 1. }--.:'2~1.jent.l al: I.lumber of D~'elling Unlts = l2') D.U. HS SLlme: 1) 2.5 per::c'ns/D.U. 100 gallons per person/day Pea~ tactor = 2.5 l~4u minutes/day 2) :::.i ..j.,l I'I~,:" h'e<:identl<:d Dem,;;nd = (2.5.. 11)1.1 ': :.5" 1:;'),1,'144') = ~~.!..1 9:.lh.!!!.:.. ['. ';cr'r::":'l:: oillid I,-,:titl't:l!:.ns: il,:.' rH-;,t: lner-~'a=e In "h?lfI.:-nd ",n+:l';lp,:..ted. G-11 '.\!CH.....E.L 5 SCHOR.\H ~ .\:'SOCI.\TES. l"-C ',,'. Hotel: Number of Rooms = 150 P,ssume: 1 I 1.8 perc:c'ns/n~c'm 1(1') 9=..11,:",:: j:'~r- persorl/day' .t ')')~/. 1=1~ r: l_tP:._ n c \/ Feah factor = ~.5 1440 lTilnute::"j2.'r' ~) -:, ) 4) t: ,_, J l'le.':. \-iotel [)em:-nd - ':::.5" 1::," = ~s_~. 2. 1.8 " 1')'),1 /144(1 ,,'1. Th!?,:-ter:Clvlr:.: Center: Net I..lsatole area = L:.<I':") sq. ft. Hssume: 1 ) 0.1 gallons per day/sq. ft. Peak factor = .:'. I) 144') nunLltes;dav 2.1 ::) ,'1:-,.:: .It-'e.... ter I C 1 V 1 ': I~ent et- Ue.mc:\n,j = (1.2.')':'1) ': <'.1 :' ,~:. ,>/:' 1.+4') = -. .-' '~.dd..!.. !:!L~ '1 L . 1.1 e t I ,-, ;.:; J'"' em e. n t Co. i \=',~ tab 1 f:? \~J <:\ t e r L' ~ <TI Co, n Ij : E.:pected O'?!!land lncreaSE ln potable = 0.9 + 13.9 + 5:.1 = 1~~~:: g.:..Q~m~ l,oJat'Er ,i- -+0. (i + ,.. ~ .... -' ~~lld~lsR IU~EgB2g l~ ~g~e~g EbQ~ Assume sewaqe flew increase = 95% of Max. Potable Water DEmand Increase :-':-'.. SEl.oJC',qe Flo\-! Increase = (.95)(,1:::::.::: g.p.n\.i = 11g:...6 Q.!..e.:.!1\.:. ';Qt.:!k6b!21Q~ T t-,e cc:mtr act has been 1 et. f or the pre-posed 16" ~/ater mai n ,:l.10n9 N. E. ~rd street. Sald water maln. when lnstalled~ WIll act as a booster to the downtown area ana wlll ensure adequate capaclty for the Community Redevelopment FroJect. Hny prQPceed ,nid-rlsE buildings wlll need to be equq:,pe(j '^!l U-, wC'.ter- 5'_lpp1'f b(~ost:er pi_Imp:: to overc'~me the stati..: head dl-t+'O'r'~ntl"d v~~'llcl"l 1::: lnIH::r-,?nt in U"I:-.t t',pe of strl.!.:tl_lt-e. ,\1-,;', \~l'",\'dt/ 51:~I,"'~r- :;:''t:tein and mii'.!:tr~r- l~ft -:tation wtllc:h ser-'.'E thE c:-,I~e,:. 0r~ pres~ntly oper~tlng below de~lgn c~P2city and will not be ~"j .er'.=!:.l ': ~d' I':::c:t~i'd b'/ tip-? I: Qii,(T\Lln1 t'/ F."~.j'~":elopment Frclj.?ct. G-12 '.\ 1,- !i:UL. U ~L'H()R."H &. ,,,~u<..:l^ fb. \~C ,. The 20" gravity sewer main which flows eastward along Boynton Beach Boulevard is in dis't'erair and will warrant attention in the near futuye regardless of whether the redevelopment project is or is not implemented. We propose that the section of pipe which lies east of U.S. 1 be replaced with new pipe in c0njunction with construction of the proposed new bridge. After discussion with Mr. Perry Cessna, Director of Utilities of the City of Boynton Beach, we feel that a process known as Insituform can be utilized to repair the section of 20" ~ravity sewer that lies west of U. S. ,1. Said process will ensure the future functionality of the existinp, pine and will preclude the need of costly cut and repair of the Boynton Beach Boulevard road surfacp., . In general~ it 15 our Judgement that the existing potable water and sanitary sewer infrastructure has been well designed and is in good operating condition. The proposed redevelopment project will neither stra1n e:<isting facilities nor lnCl.lr costly improvements. ~-1~ ,~. e:. 3 rl:: .... ~~ 'l..)! --: ./ ..; -, -= r'" : S ~s part ~f ~ne Master ~lan ~evelo~ment for the redevelopment of tne do~nto~n area of 3oynton Beach. it is contemplated that a ~aterfront amenity be developed involving the extension of a canal access from the Intracoastal \.Jaterway into a bay area around ~hich commercial development could take place. This development would necessitate the removal of some of the existing mangrove forest to provide ~ater access into that area. A part of this program would also be the development of a small channel entering this area from the north to provide a flUShing loop through the area to enhance the water quality of the completed project. In the implementation of this portion of the project. the Redevelopment Authority should take the following steps: 1. Attempt to gain control. either by fee title ownership, lease or exchange of all of the existing mangrove forest area. This ~ould provide them with a better position relative to permitting of a proposed project thr~ugh the regulatory agencies both at the State and Federal levels. 2 . Prepare a may affect b ac k 9 r 0 un d impact for detai led study of the mangrove forest area as it the future proposed development and to provide the for an assessment of the biological and ecological, the proposed construction. 3. Provide a refined detail plan of the proposed waterfront de vel 0 pm en tin t e r m s 0 f the s i z e , de p t h , and ex ac t 1 0 cat ion of the water area relative to the affected wetland areas and formulate a plan in consultation with the regulatory agencies for the mitigation of the loss of any of the ",etland areas. 4. Determine a proposed strategy for the implementation of the project considering alternative financing, potential for sharing of the proposed construction ",ith future developers in the do",ntown area. or the possibility of bond financed construction of the entire project as a part of a comprehensive downtown redevelopment program. 5. Assess the feel ings of the community and the environmental interest groups regarding the project so the possibility of any future objections to the proposed program may oe overcome prior to implementation. G-14 ALTERNATIVE METHODS OF FINANCING The following is a list of potential financing te;chniques which can stimulate and enhance the tax increment financing program that is being developed through this plan. It should be clearly understood that not one. but several techniques should be developed and that those techniques that would best suit a particular need be used. Ultimately the CRA in conjunction with local financial institutions. merchants and interested citizens are responsible for promotion. administration and business development. The eRA will also be responsible for the review and monitoring of proposed legislation which will affect the downtown redevelopment process through the Florida Downtown Development Association and other lobbying organizations. Chapter 163 of the Florida Statutes, as amended, was developed by the lobbying effort referenced herein, through the efforts of many organized downtown development authorities and community redevelopment agencies in the state. Tax Increment Financingl Tax increment financing is a financing teChnique ",hich would enable the Redevelopment Agency to capture the anticipated value, to be added to the tax base in the subject area through redevelopment. Generally, at the time the redevelopment plan is formally adopted. the assessment base within the redevelopment area is frozen for municipal and county tax purposes. These jurisdictions would be guaranteed. the same amount of taxes as collected prior to the adoption of the tax increment district. Assuming the same tax rates, new development in the area would result in increased valuation and an increased tax flow. The increment is the difference between the new gross tax revenue flow, and the frozen, previously existing flow. This increment is then uti I ized to amortize bonds, initially issued to finance publ ic improvements in the redevelopment area or tax increment district. Land ~rite-Downs, Land write-downs refer to the sale of land by a publ ic or development agency at less than its fair market value. This provides a direct front end cost savings to the developer. Fedeal funds (EDA or HUD) and local bond issues can be used to finance original land purchases by the redevelopment agency. "- ~ ::. \,;; . - Tax Abatements: Tax Abatement- affects the operating costs of the thereby has a direct impact on the rate of return Taxes on property are postponed for 5-10 years and increase over a 20-25 year period. Tax unconstitutional under Florida law. project and on investment. then gradua 11 y abatement is Lease ~ ~ of .~ Propoertys Develop/lease or sell real property is where a redevelopment agency purchases and accumulates land. constructs site improvements and possibly buildings. and then leases the land and / 0 r b u i 1 din 9 s . The red eve lop me n tag e n c y co u 1 d a 1 so s ell the land and improvements to a developer. This procedure greatly reduces the developer costs and investment risk. Interest ~ Subsidy ~ ~ Guarantees: Interest rate and loan guarantees leverage private investment by reducing interest rate costs and promoting financial stability by insuring lending monies are avai lable. These mechanisms also make financing possible for high risk areas not prone to normal development pressures. Joint Participation: Joint participation is an approach designed to stimulate private Iproperty improvements. The city constructs certain public improvements such as a pedestrian system, in reciprocatin for improvements to private property. The city has the option to use local or federal funds to pay for its improvements as well as help finance (loans or grants) property owner improvements. Special Assessment ~istrict: A special assessment district is another form of joint participation. The special assessment district is created when 51 percent or more of abutting property owners petition the City Council to establish a defined area for some specified public improvements (i.e., sidewalk improvements). The total or partial cost for the improvements is then assessed to all property owners within the district over a specified periOd of time. The establ ishment of such districts must be created through City Counci 1 ordinance and therefore public hearings are necessary. "'-~~ '- 1-, Economic Development Corporation (EDC): The Economic Development Corporation (EDC) offers a strategic organization (or attracting private investments because of the flexibi! ity afforded its quasi-pub! ic. non-profit status. The advantages of EDC's are described below. Because they are administratively autonomous quasi-publ ic agencies. staffs are hired by and accountable to a ful I-time director. Salaries and overhead costs are financed out of publ ic rather than private se~tor grants as well as through fees and service ~harges. EDC's are private corporatins rather than city agencies and as a result are not prohibited from assisting private firms in real estate and financial matters. Many quasi-public EDC's have demonstrated a special capacity to "package" various development financing tools by combining various capital resources through urban municipalities with private business assistance funds. These various leveraging techniques offer opportunities for tailoring incentive and financial mechanisms to meet specific local situations. ~17 OTHER FINANCING ALTERNATIVES Introduction Successful downtown redeve opment is undoubtedly tied to the availability of adequate funding. In order to implement this plan sufficient financial resources are required. There are a variety of ways to approach the issue of funding downtown redevelopment projects utilizing a combination of federal, state and local resources. The ultimate combination of funding resources will be determined by availability and criteria requirements of the various funding sources. It is impor-tant to note that federal funding has historically provided the majority of support for redevelopment projects. This phenomenon has its r-oots in the massive urban renewal movement which began as a result of federal legislation in 1949. The abil ity of cities to rely on this source of funding has been declining in the past several years with the elimination of the urban rene",al program and the altered intent of the Community Development Block Grant (C08G) program. The constant flux of current federal fiscal policies increases the difficulty in delineating the availability of programs and their funding levels for an extended time period. This is further complicated by the inequities between the money authorized for a particular progr-am and the money whiCh is ultimately appropriated. The consequences of this trend are important; the competition for appropriated federal money increases as does the reliance on State and local resources. Because of these conditions the need for an open information flow with the federal government increases. To m a x i m i z e all a v e n u e s 0 f fin an cia Ire sou r c e sit 1 s i m po r tan t t 0 explore al I possibilities. however, the nature of change in the availability of federal funding does emphasize the importance of focusing on State and local funding sources. State financial assistance for downtown redevelopment exists in several indirect forms. These include enabling legislation and tax credits. Enabling legislation gives municipalities the authority to do a number of things which can be used for downtown revitalization. these include instituting tax increment financing, issuing industrial development revenue bonds (IRB's) and issuing revenue bonds. In addition, there are three tax credits, which the state legislature enacted and which became effective recently. that relate directly to community revital ization. - ---- Local financial resour.;es are largely the programs available through State enabling legislation. The State's only function in this area i~ in the actual delegation of power to the muni.;ipality to institute particular programs. Accordingly the Boynton Beach eRA has concentrated its efforts on implementing tax increment financing. The possibility of using IRB's and revenue bonds are also options in addition to tax increment financing that could be instituted at the local level. It should be stressed that the nature of funding programs is extremely fluid. The fol lowing is a discussion of programs that currently exist. Although at this point the possibility of new funding sources does not appear promising there have been some examples of new sources in the recent past, such as the emergence of the Urban Development Action Grant program by the federal government. Federal Funding 1) Housing and Urban Development (HUD) - There are several programs under the auspices of HUD in the form of project grants, direct loans and guaranteed loans. The following assortment includes applicable programs which have been earmarked for further funding. a) Community Development BlOCk Grant (C08G) - This program is based on an entitlement formula and is set up to provide assistance to facilitate decent housing. a suitable living environment and opportunities for low and moderate income groups. This program evolved out of the former categorical grant programs and instead of being earmarked for a specific type of urban improvement can be used in a variety of ways. Some of these include the acquisition or construction of certain public works. faci lities, improvements, clearance or rehabil itation. C D B G mo n i e s are c h ann e led i n to" tar get are a s II . b) Urban Development Action Grant (UDAG) - The most recent addition to the Federal Government's efforts to "prime the p u m p II for red eve lop me n tin Am e r I.: a I s c i tie s to day, UOAG is a highly flexible economic development tool in whiCh the main thrust Is to stimulate private investment by providing seed money suppl ied by the program. These grants are to assist cities in revitalizing stagnating economies and to help deteriorating neighborhoods. UDAG is specifically geared to one time opportunities and to help communities capture and leverage significant private investment. A private sector financial commitment. must be s~cured before an Action Grant can be awarded. The ratio of private investment to grant funds must be at least 3$1 One significant advantage of this program is the rapid turn-around time. Applications may be submit- ted quarterly and HUD makes final decisions on approval no later than the last day of each quarter. Awards are announced shortly thereafter. UDAG has great potential for the Boynton Beach Redevelop- ment program. Initially, local ,government must develop pr i 'late sector interest in the redeve 1 opment concept. Public improvements necessary to make prIvate Investment feasible (i.e.. roadway improvements, water/sewer, land acquisition, etc.) must be evaluated and relative costs determined. The analysis of private Investment, project, by project, must be summarized and a prlvate/publlc dollar investment ratio determined. The ratios must be in line ",ith historical standards (HUD statistics). Spe- cifIcally, the three major projects cited tn the Plan are excellent opportunities for a UOAG leverage program. This effort must be coordinated by the City PlannIng Department or its agent. c} HUD/FHA Loan Insurance Programs - 1. Section 213 - For constructin or rehabilitation of coopertive housing. 2. Section 233 - For constructin or rehabi litatlon of housing using advanced technology or experimental design. 3. Section 234(d} - For construction or rehabilitation of condominium projects. 4. Section 235 - For interest subsidies and mortgage insurance for new or substantially rehabilitated single family units for lower income families. 2) Economic Recovery Tax Act of 1981 - Congress recently passed legislation which provldii tix-rncentlves for rehabilitating older busIness structures to encourge business to remain in center cities Instead of relocating in new buildings in outlying suburbs solely to take advantage of the tax advantages offered by the present accelerated cost recovery system. The new system (Section '57, Tax Credit for Rehabi I itation Expenditures) is a three tler Investment -- .:redit. It applies to rehabilitation costs incurred after December 31, 198,- The tax credit islS% for nonresidential structures that are at least 30 years old. 20% for nonresidential structures that are at least 40 years old and 25% for all structures that are certified on the National Register of Histori; Places. In order to receive these credits the taxpayer must meet the criteria for "substantial rehabilitation" and must use the straight line method of cost recovery for rehabi I itation expenditures. 3) Small Business Administratin (SBA) - Available SBA programs include, a. Loan guarantees - most S8A financing is done under the 7- A program ~hi~h focuses on ~orkin9 capital needs. Under this program a bank makes a loan to a small business ~ith a 90% federal guarantee. Loans usually extend for 5 to 7 years. b. Section 502 - this section provides long-term loans and' guarantees to local development corporations for constructin, conversion or expansion of business facilities. including purchase of land. building and equipment. The local developers must provide 10-20% of the costs. c. Neighborhood 8usiness Revital izatin Program (HBRP) This is a new program to stimulate jobs and business In order to strengthen neighborhoods and increase private sector investment and the local tax base. NBRP uses 502 monies, as well as SBA individual loans. 4) Economic Development Administration (EOA) - EDA provides a variety of grants and loans to encourage long-term economic development and increased employment. The creation of jobs is a major objective of EDA. a. Title I - Grants and loans are avai lable for publ ic works and development facilities. Oirect loans are for up to 100% of the costs and grants up to 60%. b. Title I I - Business and development loans are to help finance the cost of fixed assets and ~orking capital directly or through guaranteed loans from private lending institutions. c. Title I I I - This is to assist in the planning of economic development programs. d. Title IX - Areas impacted by structural dislocations or changes in the local economy can qual ify for adjustment assistance and special economic development. " ,..... State Funding Financial assistance from the state that comes as a result of enabling legislation will be discussed in the local funding section, as the municipality is responsible for the implementation of such programs. The Florida Legislature in '980, passed three major pieces of legislation addressing community revitalization. All of these laws are not effective. ,} Tax Credits for New Jobs (Chapter 80-247) - This creates an economic revital ization job creation credit against the corporate income tax to businesses which employ residents of blighted areas. The credit is equal to 25% of wages paid up to $1500 a month for one year. 2} Tax Credit for New or Expanded Businesses (Chapter 80-248) _ New businesses or expansion of existing businesses located in slum or bl ighted areas can receive an economic revitalization tax incentive credit against the corporate income tax. The amount of allowable credit is determined by the ad valorem taxed paid on expansion-related property by .n expanded business. 3} Tax Credit for Contribution to Community Development Projects (Chapter 80-249) - The Community Improvement Act of 1980 is included in this bill and provides incentives for private corporations to participate in revitalization projects undertaken by redevelopment organizations. It established a procedure through which businesses may receive a tax credit of 50% of their contributions to eligible community development projects. There is an annual limit of $200,000 with a program cap of $3 million. Local Funding Through state enabling legislation. Boynton authority to utilize financial tools such as financing, industrial development revenue bonds bonds. Beach has the tax increment and revenue 1} Tax Increment Financing - Tax increment financing as a tool for redevelopment is gaining in popularity. the Community Redevelopment Act of 1969 was amended on July 1, 1977 to include provisions for tax increment financing. 2} Industrial Development Revenue Bonds (IRB's) - Industrial Development Revenue Bonds are tax exempt bonds Issued by counties and cities or their agencies to provide funds for purposes of buying land or constructing buildings or faci 1 ities for manufacturing. The categories of projects eligible for- IRBls were amended on July 1, 1980 by Florida House Bill 1572 to include commercial projects. Typically the interest rate on an lOB would be 2 to 3% less than the conventional commercial mortgage rate. G-22 3) Revenue Bonds - Revenue bonds are a type of municipal bond wnose obligations are payable from revenues derived from toll s, cha-rges, user fees or rents that are collected from those citizens who use a particular municipal service or faci I ity. the objective is to recover the costs of financing construction for a particular faci I ity or service. The interest costs and marketabi 1 ity of revenue bonds vary widely. The bond market is usually more receptive to revenue bonds for faci I ities that are subject to mandatory use such as water, se~er. electricity or gas. Uses of a non-mandatory nature such as recreational ~urposes generally require higher interest costs. r_~~ ENCOURAGING NEW DEVELOPMENT The major tas.k of the eRA is to encourage new Investment, in the form of new construction. renovation, and intensified use of existing faci 1 ities, and thus strengthen the economic base, improve the physical characteristics, and expand activities in the downtown. Two major ways for the CRA to achieve its task are to solicit ne", development and tenants and to encourage physical improvements and increased use of existing facilities. Sol iciting ~ Development The fol lowing criteria should be considered in determining what kinds of developments should be soughtz l) The development should be economically viable in a downtown location. 2} The development should contribute to a diverse and healthy economic base. 3) Structures should be pedestrian-oriented along the Major Pedestrian Syste. and related to the existing or planned character of the surrounding area rather than isolated struc- tures. ~) The development should attract people to the downtown. S) Projects able to preserve and reuse significant older buildings should be encouraged. To carry out its task, the eRA must play an active role in soliciting and facilitating development. This includes acting as an advocate for selected projects at local, state, and possibly national levels. The eRA is uniquely positioned and empowered to seek and advocate the do",ntown location of projects that further the goals of downtown redevelopment. eRA ~sored Development For projects that the eRA sponsors, certain design considerations should be established. They should include pedestrian orientation, signage, parking and compatibility with the surrounding area. Broad guidelines should be imposed beforehand and considered in the review of development proposals. Certain restrictions could be included as restrictive covenants in the sale or lease of land, vhere appropriate. G-24 A. Designated Parcels Several major projects have been s)ecifi- cally recommendec in the preceding section of this plan, and sites h~ve been identified. The CRA. shoul~ establ ish proce- dures and terms for implementing the three major development projects proposed, seek the approval of necessary land acquisition and disposal of City owned land in inventory if necessary, and actively sol icit developers or tenants for the project. Some projects depend on the initiative of the CRA to market the project and actively seek proposals. In other projects the eRA is in a unique position to consider the impact of the faci 1 ity on the downtown. It should provide advice and assistance to ensure that the project is developed in a way that maximizes its impact on, redevelopment of the downtown. B. Undesignated Parcels The eRA should monitor development opportunities and actively solicit and encourage appropriate developments. The CRA should respond to requests for assistance by helping identify sites and provide information about parcel ownership, building codes and other restric- tions. the permitting process. and the avai labil ity of financing locally and elsewhere. In case of a particularly significant and appropriate development opportunity. the CRA should consider amendment of the plan to allow for land acquisition or other forms of publ ie assistance to faci I itate the development, if necessary. The eRA should explore the opportunities and appropriate procedures and terms for lease or sale of air rights on city- owned parcels. Selection of development proposals using air rights should be in accordance with the land use proposals. goals and objectives, and development criteria of this plan. C-25 ENCOURAGING COMMUNITY REHABILITATION There are a yariety of financing mechanisms available to the eRA for implementing a comprehensive rehabilitation program by using local. state and federal funds. The programs establ ished herein must be in the form of city/property owner participation to yield the desired results. In addition to the Improvement loan programs herein, the municipality can further enhance its position by creating incentive "public" improvement programs in the form of sidewalk. street lighting and landscaping improvements including signage and coordinated architectural review which wil I further enhance the redevelopment process. The key. is to concentrate, on an area by area basis, as opposed to scattering loan incentives throughout the downtown area. By concentrating loan programs a vi'sual impact will be established ",hich will encourage a rippl ing effect off of that specific block rehabi I itation program which will further encourage reInvestment in the downtown area. As you can see, the rippling effect begins to develop momentum which creates the positIve market place which causes the investor, developer and property owner to Invest in rehabi 1 ltation and new construction In the area. The four basic programs avai lable are as foJlows, 1) A guarantee for convent ional improvement loans made by banks willing to provide reduced interest rates in the area in which the bank obviously has as its primary target loan area. 2) A principal subsidy at present value (based on percentage of principal loan amount which creates a reduction of the effective interest rate on the loan) and/or 3) An interest subsidy based on some percentage below a prime rate. 4) Revolving loan fund for direct loans with variable interest rates depending upon the persons ability to pay (guidelines to be established). All of these programs require a great deal of coordination and must be implemented with the same vigor which the primary community redevelopment agency target area will be approached. In terms of sources of funds to facilitate the already outlined improvement programs the following funding sources can potentially be availablel tax increment financing trust fund, local and federal loan guarantee subsidy programs as well as a tax credit program pursuant to Chapter 80-249 Laws of Florida (1980) which will allow for the state corporate tax credit to become an incentive for private corporation contribution to the aforementioned revolving loan fund and/or interest subsidy program. C-26 The eRA must immejiately devel.,p a priority of bl.,ck redevelopment within the downtown area. This will include specifying an. initial "model" block which in our opini"n should be the ""Id town" retail b10Ck which has the necessary elements f0r a successful joi.,t venture between the city and the private building owners/retail shop owners. Steps for implementing this model block program are as f,,110w5: 1) The individual land .,wners/merchants should be polled t" determine their interest i., the above program (the Merchants Assoc. should be used to coordinate this effort). 2) The eRA must coordinate with the city administration to determine any available federal/revenue sharing or other grant programs available immediately (possibly through the county community development ~ept). This money would be used to match private guarantees for funds to be expended for the subject street, sidewalk, landscaping, lighting, street furniture. etc. improvement program. 3) The municipality must coordinate the front end financing for such a program. The individual property owners would have the opportunity of paying their fair share in a cash lump sum payment or making payments on a regular basis as determined through a guarantee supported by a lien on the SUbJect property. until such time as all payments are made. 4) The eRA through the local merchants assoc. should develop a petition of intent to be exectued by all property owners (understanding 51~ ownership appr~val is all that is necessary) . The eRA must m~ve to establish a revolving loan fund in conjunction ~ith conventional local financing and TIr Trust fund monies to effectuate the rehabilitiation of the building facades (interiors where appropriate) along the subject redevelopment "model" block. The comprehensive approach required for the bl~ck by bl~ck restoration of commercial establishments must be ultimately coordinated by an association, made up of the representative property owners, which obviously creates an incentive for a successful program. All 1n all, the joint venture between city and the owners will tend t~ insure the greatest opportunity f~r redevelopment success. G-27 COMMUNITY DESIGN AND REVIEW PROCEDURES The formulation of design guidel ines is recommended to ensure that redevelopment wil I be carried out in a manner consistent with eRA plan objectives. Different guidelines will apply to specific areas, includingl property fronting the major corridors entering the downtown (U.S. 1. Boynton Beach Blvd.. and East Ocean Avenue), and the eight different land-use classifications in the Downtown Center. Distinctive design guidelines for these specific areas will create an image consistent with the dominant uses, create contrast between primary retail nodes and other more general commercial/office areas. improve the quality of the pedestrian environment, and provide a cOhes,ive downtown Identity. In order to establish design continuity the agency should develop guidelines that integrate the public and private sector functionally and visually. Roadways and walkways should have consistant detail ing and design that provides a specific character to the community. This can be in the form of colored materials and textured surfaces that repeat a theme throughout the community. Suggested alternative details should be provided to the private sector to implement designs compatible to the publ ic sector overal I character. Signage and street furniture should also be designed to establish Boynton Beach as a special place. Landscaping is perhaps the most important element, since it can be the most dominant visual element that ties the community together. A predesigned variety of plant material and trees would blend a specific feeling within each type of street scene. More prominant street intersections and pedestrian ways should have distinctive solutions. Special monuments and artwork should also be planned into the overall scheme to provide special visual interest and encourage other property improvements to incorporate art work into the overall plans. In addition, guide! ines should address setbaCKS, height, ground floor character and other architectural elements. A specific architectural vernacular should not be perscribedl however, all new improvements should be designed to be unique to Boynton Beach. Traditional or contemporary design solutions can be incorporated into an overall community design. Repetition of certain colors and materials can lend a thread of visual continuity throughout the community such as barrel. tile, brick pavers, earth tone colors, or white window frames. The guidel ines can also include performance standards controlling noise, hours of operation, desired traffic and parking patterns. adequate sunlight, min. plaza space, etc... G-28 In '?rder to properly ~eflect ')ownt'?wn Center objectives desig"l guidelines should be adopted after the adoption of the commun-n.y redevelopment Plan dna the adoption of a revised and expanded CBD District ordtnance. Review procedures need t':) be :ormulated to ensure that projects meet design guideli~es. A number of alternatives exist i" establishi!1g a permanent :-evie'" board i"cluding use of current city staff members, CRA representatives, and/or voluntary or appointed private citizens. It is recommended that a Development Review Board (ORB) be established and serve in an advisory capacity for all projects l"cated in the Downtown Center. The DRB would be intimately familiar with the Community Redevelopment Plan. the CBO ordinance and Design Guidelines for the Dowtow!1 Center. The ORB would essentially combine the functions of the City's Community Appearance Board and Planning and Zoning Board. In order to perform its function competently and effectively the DRB should include highly qualified design professionals in the fields of architecture. landscape architecture, and graphic design. Enforcement mechanisms f"r design guidelines must not only include adoption thr"ugh the use of "verlay districts, and a review board with established procedures, but must include municipal budgeting for city stafr to conduct periodic on-site inspections. This will help guarantee continued eonf~rmity years later to the originally approved design and construction. especially f~r easily changed elements, such as landscape buffer I requirements. DOWNTOWN CENTER DEVELOPMENT REGULATION PROCEDURES Subsequent to the concurrent adoption of this Redevelopment Plan and appr~priate amendments to the City's Comprehensive Plan the city must establish an effective procedure for reviewing and approvi~g development in the Downtown Center. It is recommended that the following actions be officially and concurrently taken as soon after the adoption of the Redevelopment Plan as possible: 1) Adopt a revised and expanded CBD ordinance regulating development in the Downtown Center. 2) Rezone all lands lying ",ithin the limits of the Downtown Center to CEO. 3) Adopt a _set "f Design guidelines and standards f"r _development in the O~wntown Center. 4) Reconsider the current development review process as it will relate to CED development in order to effectively implement CEO design guidelines and development standards. G-29 5 ) G-30 Lift the building moratorium Properties outside the Downtown from the moratorium at the Redevelopme~t Plan. ,. f ., r the 0 0 w n tow nee n t e r . Center should be released time of adoption of the Appendix H