Minutes 06-10-08
MINUTES OF THE COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY
MEETING HELD ON TUESDAY, JUNE 10, 2008,
AT 6:30 P.M. IN CITY COMMISSION CHAMBERS,
BOYNTON BEACH, FLORIDA
PRESENT:
Jerry Taylor, Chair
Jose Rodriguez, Vice Chair
Woodrow Hay
Marlene Ross
Ron Weiland
Lisa Bright, Executive Director
James Cherof, Board Attorney
I. Call to Order - Chairman Jerry Taylor
Chair Taylor called the meeting to order at 6:31 p.m.
II. Pledge to the Flag and Invocation
Mr. Hay gave the invocation, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.
III. Roll Call
The Recording Secretary called the roll and declared a quorum was present.
IV. Agenda Approval:
A. Additions, Deletions, Corrections to the Agenda
None.
B. Adoption of Agenda
Motion
Mr. Hay moved to adopt the agenda as presented. Vice Chair Rodriguez seconded the motion
that passed unanimously.
v. Announcements and Awards:
A. July 4th Salute to Independence
The board and the public viewed the t (PSA).
Kathy Biscuiti, Special Events Manager, announced the Public Service Announcement for the
July 4th Salute to Independence was currently televised on BBlV. The celebration would be
free and would be held at Intracoastal Park from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. on Friday, July 4,
2008. Trolley service would be available from 5:30 p.m.-10:00 p.m. Food and beverages would
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Community Redevelopment Agency
Boynton Beach, Florida
June 10, 2008
be offered for sale on the premises. Live entertainment would be provided by the Ovation Band
and fireworks by Grucci. Mayor Taylor would deliver a speech, a patriotic salute would be
offered by the Fire and Police Honor Guards, and a soloist would sing the National Anthem.
VI. Consent Agenda
A. Approval of Minutes - CRA Board Meeting - May 13, 2008
B. Approval of Minutes - CRA Board Special Meeting - May 20, 2008
C. Approval of the Period ended May 31, 2008 Financial Report
D. Approval of Funding up to $1,500 from the Community Meeting Grant Program
to Inlet Cove Association (INCA)
E. Approval of a Commercial Facade Improvement Grant to First Financial Plaza
F. Approval of Purchase and Development Agreements between the CRA and
Habitat for Humanity for 219 NW 11th Avenue
G. Approval of Board Travel to International Downtown Association's (IDA) 54th
Annual Conference - September 11-14, 2008
H. CRA Policing Activity Report for the Month of April 2008 and District Statistics for
the months of April and May 2008 (Info. Only)
I. Update on Police Athletic League Request for Funding (Info Only)
J. Boynton Harbor Marina Operations Update (Info Only)
K. Boynton Beach CRA and Trolley Website Updates (Info Only)
L. INCA Views Newsletter (Info Only)
Items H, I and J were pulled by Vice Chair Rodriguez for discussion.
Motion
Ms. Ross moved to approve the Consent Agenda, with the exception of Items H, I, and J. Mr.
Hay seconded the motion that passed unanimously.
VII. Pulled Consent Agenda Items:
H. CRA Policing Activity Report for the Month of April 2008 and District Statistics for
the months of April and May 2008 (Info Only)
Vice Chair Rodriguez asserted the statistics did not provide any basis for comparison for 2007
and 2008, and the effect of the additionional the five CRA police officers could not be
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determined. Although the statistics indicated there appeared to be a reduction in crime, no
explanation was offered as to why crime was reduced. This information was necessary in
planning the 2009 CRA budget.
Vivian Brooks, Assistant Director, responded she would obtain the requested information from
the police chief.
Chair Taylor requested the police chief attend the next meeting in order to provide a clearer
understanding of the issue.
Motion
Vice Chair Rodriguez moved to approve Item H. Mr. Weiland seconded the motion that passed
unanimously.
I. Update on Police Athletic League Request for Funding (Info Only)
Vice Chair Rodriguez noted funding requested for the Youth Violence Prevention Project (YVPP)
last year was denied, as a line item was not available in the budget. Currently, a line item was
available for partial funding. Vice Chair Rodriguez believed it should have been indicated at the
time the request was made that a line item was available. Further, he contended staff never
provided any feedback regarding availability of funds, whether on a one-time, annualized or
recurring basis.
Ms. Ross noted she had contributed $1,000 to WPP the Police Athletic League from her ~
Commission discretionary funds in her capacity as a City Commissioner.
At the May 13, 2008 CRA meeting, Officer Tome, Director of the Police Athletic League (PAL),
was asked to determine whether funds could be used from drug forfeitures. Officer Tome
ascertained the forfeiture funds could not be used to send the basketball teams to the
tournaments. Chair Taylor noted a line item for contingency funds of $10,000 was available in
the CRA budget for one-time donations.
Lisa Bright, Executive Director, pointed out that funding for YVPP would require an
amendment, and the board previously voted not to pursue an amendment. While staff was not
making any recommendation, the board could contribute to PAL from the $10,000 remaining in
the contingency fund.
Motion
Mr. Weiland moved that funding not be provided at this time. Ms. Ross seconded the motion
that passed unanimously.
J. Boynton Harbor Marina Operations Update (Info Only)
Vice Chair Rodriguez inquired as to the number of charter boats and public-use boats located at
the Marina.
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determined. Although the statistics indicated there appeared to be a reduction in crime, no
explanation was offered as to why crime was reduced. This information was necessary in
planning the 2009 CRA budget.
Vivian Brooks, Assistant Director, responded she would obtain the requested information from
the police chief.
Chair Taylor requested the police chief attend the next meeting in order to provide a clearer
understanding of the issue.
Motion
Vice Chair Rodriguez moved to approve Item H. Mr. Weiland seconded the motion that passed
unanimously.
1. Update on Police Athletic League Request for Funding (Info Only)
Vice Chair Rodriguez noted funding requested for the Youth Violence Prevention Project (YVPP)
last year was denied, as a line item was not available in the budget. Currently, a line item was
available for partial funding. Vice Chair Rodriguez believed it should have been indicated at the
time the request was made that a line item was available. Further, he contended staff never
provided any feedback regarding availability of funds, whether on a one-time, annualized or
recurring basis.
Ms. Ross noted she had contributed $1,000 to WPP the Police Athletic League from her Q!.'i
Commission discretionary funds in her capacity as a City Commissioner.
At the May 13, 2008 CRA meeting, Officer Tome, Director of the Police Athletic League (PAL),
was asked to determine whether funds could be used from drug forfeitures. Officer Tome
ascertained the forfeiture funds could not be used to send the basketball teams to the
tournaments. Chair Taylor noted a line item for contingency funds of $10,000 was available in
the CRA budget for one-time donations.
Lisa Bright, Executive Director, pointed out that funding for YVPP would require an
amendment, and the board previously voted not to pursue an amendment. While staff was not
making any recommendation, the board could contribute to PAL from the $10,000 remaining in
the contingency fund.
Motion
Mr. Weiland moved that funding not be provided at this time. Ms. Ross seconded the motion
that passed unanimously.
J. Boynton Harbor Marina Operations Update (Info Only)
Vice Chair Rodriguez inquired as to the number of charter boats and public-use boats located at
the Marina.
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determined. Although the statistics indicated there appeared to be a reduction in crime, no
explanation was offered as to why crime was reduced. This information was necessary in
planning the 2009 CRA budget.
Vivian Brooks, Assistant Director, responded she would obtain the requested information from
the police chief.
Chair Taylor requested the police chief attend the next meeting in order to provide a clearer
understanding of the issue.
Motion
Vice Chair Rodriguez moved to approve Item H. Mr. Weiland seconded the motion that passed
unanimously.
I. Update on Police Athletic League Request for Funding (Info Only)
Vice Chair Rodriguez noted funding requested for the Youth Violence Prevention Project (YVPP)
last year was denied, as a line item was not available in the budget. Currently, a line item was
available for partial funding. Vice Chair Rodriguez believed it should have been indicated at the
time the request was made that a line item was available. Further, he contended staff never
provided any feedback regarding availability of funds, whether on a one-time, annualized or
recurring basis.
Ms. Ross noted she had contributed $1,000 to YVPP from her discretionary funds in her capacity
as a City Commissioner.
At the May 13, 2008 CRA meeting, Officer Tome, Director of the Police Athletic League (PAL),
was asked to determine whether funds could be used from drug forfeitures. Officer Tome
ascertained the forfeiture funds could not be used to send the basketball teams to the
tournaments. Chair Taylor noted a line item for contingency funds of $10,000 was available in
the CRA budget for one-time donations.
Lisa Bright, Executive Director, pointed out that funding for YVPP would require an
amendment, and the board previously voted not to pursue an amendment. While staff was not
making any recommendation, the board could contribute to PAL from the $10,000 remaining in
the contingency fund.
Motion
Mr. Weiland moved that funding not be provided at this time. Ms. Ross seconded the motion
that passed unanimously.
J. Boynton Harbor Marina Operations Update (Info Only)
Vice Chair Rodriguez inquired as to the number of charter boats and public-use boats located at
the Marina.
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Mike Simon, Development Manager, advised, of the 24 slips at the Marina, four were vacant,
five were used for private boats and 15 commercial vessels were used for diving, fishing and
pleasure charters.
Vice Chair Rodriguez referred to the Palm Beach County Commission's Executive Brief which
required the Marina to make eight slips available for commercial charter vessels, and the
remaining 16 slips for lease to the general public. As the Marina provided 15 boat slips for
commercial charter boats, the CRA had exceeded the requirements of the County's $2M grant.
Ms. Bright pointed out the former CRA members called for the acquisition of the Marina in order
to encourage development; however, the current board could change direction as staff moved
toward the reconfiguration of the boat slips.
The staff report indicated International Marine Recovery (IMR) approached the CRA for an in-
kind three-month lease to house its operations for filming marine-related activities. Ms. Bright
explained this item was included in the staff report as, it was previously mentioned an individual
boat owner had been denied rental of a boat slip. She noted staff had not been renting the
boat slips on a long-term basis. The board recently approved a work order with MSCW to
reconfigure the slips; however, staff did consider a three-month lease with IMR, since the actual
construction of the boat slips would not begin until the filming had concluded in early
September.
Jeff Moore, of IMR, advised IMR had been approached by a major production crew to film a
pilot for a television series to be presented to the networks. IMR was hoping to house its base
of operations at the Marina. He contended this would attract industry attention to the Marina,
and provide a positive economic impact. Mr. Moore believed the television crew would engage
in the community in the project. It was anticipated filming for the pilot would begin in July and
by the end of the year, IMR would know whether the series would be picked up by one of the
networks.
Captain Brad Williamson, of IMR, advised IMR would be housing a 30-foot Stapleton Boat,
and 38-foot dive boat at the Marina. The project would be chronicled by Bob Weller, a
renowned writer and father of Captain Williamson.
Ms. Bright noted for the record, IMR was not based at the Marina at this time, and unless the
board approved the request, staff would not be moving forward. If the board wished to move
forward, IMR would provide in-kind participation by working with the various youth programs in
the City.
Vice Chair Rodriguez believed citizens on a waiting list should be offered the first right of refusal
for the three-month leasing of the boat slips. Chair Taylor and Mr. Weiland believed the project
would present a wonderful opportunity for the City and would be in favor of granting the
request. Mr. Hay concurred.
Motion
Mr. Weiland moved to approve Item J. Mr. Hay seconded the motion that passed 4-1 (Vice
Chair Rodriguez dissenting).
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VIII. Public Comments
Chair Taylor invited public comments on items not on the agenda.
Mack McCray, 806 NW 4th Street, noted he requested, at a previous Commission Meeting, a
copy of the contract with Goren, Cherof, Doody and Ezrol for legal services. In addition to the
contract, Mr. McCray was requested copies of all invoices submitted by Mr. Cherof to the CRA.
Victor Norfus, 261 N. Palm Drive, inquired whether the matter of Intergenerational Funds
would be included on the agenda. Chair Taylor noted this item would be addressed under the
Executive Director's report.
Jamie Latour, 1613 NE 4th Street, requested all residents on NE 4th Street be permitted to
apply for the Heart of Boynton (HOB) grant, in the event they wished to improve their homes.
Currently, the east side of NE 4th Street could apply for the grant while the west side could not,
and it appeared from the CRA map that NE 4th Street was the only divided street. He requested
the board consider including all of NE 4th Street as part of the HOB, and bringing this issue
before the City Commission.
Herb Suss, 1711 Wood Fern Drive, noted he was upset by the City's budget proposal to
eliminate the CRA staff and requested clarification. Chair Taylor advised a list was created by
the City Manager's office which provided a number of options for budget cuts. The preliminary
budget was reviewed in depth at the last City Commission meeting and included items
recommended to be eliminated or reduced. Chair Taylor emphasized that during budget
preparation, every item is reviewed for the purpose of exploring cost-saving measures. The
elimination of the CRA staff was not a consideration. Additionally, the City preserved the tax
rate, saved jobs, and ensured the impact on the level of services would be minimal.
Ms. Ross noted she did not request CRA staff cuts be included on the list created by the City
Manager.
Mr. Suss also asked why the CRA members had not appointed seven citizens to serve on the
board, which he contended they promised to do. Vice Chair Rodriguez pointed out a minority of
the board members indicated they would consider appointing an independent board; however,
a majority vote would be required to implement such change.
No one else having come forward, Chair Taylor closed the public comments.
IX. Public Hearing:
Old Business:
New Business
X. Old Business:
A. Consideration of Legal Action Against Delray Boynton Academy
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Attorney Cherof advised the CRA partnered with the County to support the purchase of the
Delray-Boynton Academy. The Academy received a $50,000 grant from the County and a
matching grant from the CRA. The board previously made a decision not to forgive the
indebtedness to the CRA, but did not provide direction with respect to recovery of the funds. It
was recommended this debt be pursued in the same manner as the CRA or the City pursued
any other debt.
Motion
Vice Chair Rodriguez moved that the board proceed with legal action to recover the $50,000
grant. Ms. Ross seconded the motion that passed unanimously.
B. Approval of Holiday Extravaganza Parade Route
Ms. Biscuiti noted she requested approval of the parade route at a previous meeting. The 3Sth
Annual Holiday Parade would be held December 6, 200S. It was likely 4th Street would be
under construction at that time and would not be accessible. Ms. Biscuiti was requesting
approval of the alternate plan, which was included with the meeting materials. She noted it
could take months to obtain the necessary permits.
Chair Taylor recommended permits be obtained for both 3rd and 4th Streets in the event 4th
Street was not accessible.
Motion
Mr. Hay moved to approve the route. Mr. Weiland seconded the motion that passed
unanimously.
C. Consideration of Conceptual Master Developer Agreement with Auburn Group for
the MLK Corridor
Ms. Bright noted in July 2007, the board directed staff to negotiate a Master Development
Agreement for development of the 26.3 area from Sea crest Boulevard to Federal Highway,
known as the MLK Corridor. Staff had worked with the owners and developers to define the
project into three phases and identify financial responsibilities. Staff sought policy direction
from the board. Financial constraints and the Florida Supreme Court Decision in Strand v.
Escambia County had impacted the CRA's ability to meet Auburn's requested participation. The
decision rendered in August 2007, disallowed all bonding and financing capabilities for special
taxing districts. Unless the decision was overturned, the CRA could not bond in order to
effectuate the project.
Cito Beguiristain, Vice President, Auburn Group, advised Auburn worked with the community
and staff over the past ten months to develop the plan for the MLK Corridor, and anticipated
the project would be the catalyst for redevelopment of the entire downtown area. The for-profit
company was based in Palm Beach County and was one of the largest affordable housing,
neighborhood revitalization developers in Florida.
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Mr. Beguiristain provided a PowerPoint presentation, a copy of which is on file in the City Clerk's
office. He noted the City's desire to provide affordable housing while preserving the quality of
neighborhoods and assuring availability of workforce housing. Auburn's overall plan provided
for economic, social, historical and cultural sustainability.
Phase I of the plan would consist of 160 rental units for senior citizens, and a 4,500 square foot
senior center on Sea crest Boulevard. Benefits to the CRA would include an increased tax base,
development opportunities, leveraging CRA dollars with the private sector as well as State and
County Funds, removal of blight, increased crime prevention and a foundation for the
Downtown Master Plan. Auburn's total request consisted of a contribution of 2.03 acres valued
at $1.5M, an infrastructure loan of $1,920,000 and demolition of the existing structures at a
cost of $300,000.
Phase II would consist of 237 townhouses and condominiums, and would create a central MLK
green area. Benefits to the CRA would include an increased tax base, development
opportunities, leveraging CRA investment with private sector dollars, removal of blight,
workforce housing and a foundation for the Downtown Master Plan. Auburn's total request
consisted of an infrastructure loan, $2,844,000, demolition, $275,000, and down payment
assistance for homebuyers, $2,500,000. The infrastructure loan would be forgiven upon
completion of this phase.
Phase III would consist of neighborhood retail businesses and non-profit space, and would
provide a catalyst for redevelopment, increased crime prevention, improved quality of life and
removal of blight. Auburn requested the CRA to lease or purchase retail space for non-profit
uses.
Phase IV would consist of 304 condominiums and townhouses, retail space and a parking
garage on Federal Highway. In addition to the redevelopment, the CRA would acquire
commercial space in the garage. This phase would create employment, remove blight, and
leverage CRA dollars with private sector funds. It would also provide the CRA with an increased
tax base, development opportunities, community commercial space ownership and a foundation
for the Downtown Master Plan. Auburn's total request consisted of $12,920,000 for the
infrastructure loan and $150,000 for demolition. The proposed development would provide
$22,596,000 in taxes to the City over 20 years.
A question arose regarding the use of eminent domain as set forth in the draft of the Master
Development Agreement. Mr. Beguiristain advised the language should not have been included
and would be removed from the agreement.
It was noted earlier the construction of Phase IV would not begin until 75% of the units had
been sold. Mr. Beguiristain was asked whether there was a time limit for the requirement. He
explained he believed the absorption required to bring the development to completion was
feasible.
Mr. Beguiristain was asked to specify the circumstances by which the agreement could be
terminated. Mr. Beguiristain pointed out zoning issues or the inability to acquire land for
development could result in termination. He noted the agreement was before the board in draft
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form and would have to be finalized by the attorneys for the CRA and Auburn. Auburn sought
approval from the board to proceed with the agreement.
A question arose as to the repayment strategy for the loans. Mr. Beguiristain explained the
loans would not be forgiven until Auburn met all of its obligations to the CRA.
The CRA would be investing approximately $20M in the project. Mr. Beguiristain advised
$2,220,000 would be required for Phase I, and would be due by the CRA at the time Auburn
had received the necessary approvals and was prepared to commence construction. However,
in order to lessen the impact on the CRA's budget, a payment of $1.1M could be made at the
end of 2009, with the balance to be made after October 2010.
Mr. Beguiristain advised Auburn sought conceptual approval to move forward.
Motion
Mr. Hay moved to approve the concept of moving forward. Mr. Weiland seconded the motion.
Chair Taylor invited public comments.
Mack McCray, 806 NW 4th Street, believed the project was good; however, he expressed
concern relating to workforce housing for professionals. He believed it would be discriminatory
if the workforce housing were closed to non-professionals.
Herb Suss, 1711 Wood Fern Drive, noted he was impressed with the project. He inquired
whether a lobbyist was involved in the project and if so, who was the lobbyist and what was the
fee?
Ms. Bright pointed out the developers had their own in-house lobbyist who worked directly for
the Auburn Group.
Victor Norfus, 261 N. Palm Drive, addressed issues pertaining to density, on-site security and
congestion. He believed the Senior Center proposed in Phase I should include other uses within
the community. He inquired as to the ratio of citizens versus non-citizens who would be residing
in the senior rental units, whether they would be disabled and required assistance, and whether
the rental units were affordable. He expressed concern with the difficulty in establishing
neighborhood watch programs and believed a police substation should be established in the
area. He inquired as to how the process would include individuals who did not wish to sell their
property, but wished to be included in the redevelopment. He contended the plan did not
address health and quality-of-life issues, and hoped citizen feedback would be considered
during the planning process.
Ms. Bright clarified some of the issues addressed. She pointed out a public meeting was
previously held which unveiled the project to the community and provided a forum for public
input. Three Commissioners were present, and staff clearly indicated the CRA was desirous of
purchasing the retail area along Sea crest Boulevard for a clinic, the Caring Kitchen, the
Women's Circle and Sims Barber Shop. Land acquisition had always presented a challenge to
the project.
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Discussions relating to the use of eminent domain did not pertain to private property but rather
to public amenities (roadway and streetscape improvements). She pointed out the CRA had no
authority to take property by the use of eminent domain.
Ms. Bright advised she would discuss with the Police Chief, the possibility of establishing a
police substation in the area. As mentioned earlier, five police officers had been added to
ensure double coverage.
Chair Taylor believed the major priority of the CRA board was to redevelop the Heart of
Boynton.
Vote
The motion passed unanimously.
XI. New Business:
A. Consideration of Contract with Goren, Cherof, Doody and Ezrol for Legal Services
Attorney Cherof advised the fixed rates under the terms of the contract were not subject to
adjustment without renegotiation and approval by the board. The new rates were included with
the meeting materials.
Motion
Mr. Hay moved approval. Mr. Weiland seconded the motion that passed unanimously.
B. Presentation of Boynton Harbor Marina Conceptual Plan
David Perry was accompanied by Skip Harvey, both of MSCW, Inc., 4750 New Board Street,
Orlando, Florida. The project had been identified as part of the Comprehensive Plan and
Downtown Master Plan for the redevelopment of the downtown area. MSCW, Inc. was working
with the County to develop a transit-oriented development Master Plan for marinas throughout
Palm Beach County.
Mr. Perry presented an overview of MSCW, a multi-disciplinary firm offering planning, landscape
architecture, civil engineering and transportation design services. MSCW was established more
than 30 years ago and maintains offices in Orlando and on the Treasure Coast. The
presentation would include a review the objectives of the project, cost estimates, an analysis
overview and timeframes for the process. The project was located at the heart of the
downtown area, bound on the south by Ocean Avenue, on the north by Boynton Beach
Boulevard, and on the west by 6th Avenue.
Mr. Perry noted the objectives of the project pertained to enhancement of public and private
ownership properties and to improve the waterfront usage for public access. A major element
of the design would increase the functionality of the project site from a vehicular, pedestrian
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and marine design standpoint. MSCW identified, interviewed and engaged the individual
properties owners in the design process.
Mr. Weiland left the dais at 8:26 p.m.
The planning of the project would create an urban design space and serve as a catalyst for
marina development while creating a destination place for residents. The site would be
maximized for public usage and would support business development. The architectural
element of the project would provide a timeless style design.
Attorney Cherof left the dais at 8:27 p.m.
Mr. Perry noted the engineering elements of the project were sensitive in nature and would
incorporate the existing Banana Boat and Two Georges Restaurants. The objective was to
maximize the visual aspects of the project and minimize the underground infrastructure design
costs.
Mr. Weiland returned to the dais at 8:29 p.m.
Multiple designs and alternatives were considered for the Marina. Boat access was of primary
concern. The Marina had been selected as a key project in order to maintain commercial
boating activities within the HOB. A primary aspect of the project was to consider how the
project would fit into the fabric of the surrounding area. Consideration was to be given to
maximizing under-utilized areas to facilitate additional parking. Angled and parallel parking
would provide approximately 25 spaces within the existing rights-of-way, and valet spaces for
use by the restaurants would be defined.
Attorney Cherof returned to the dais at 8:30 p.m.
As part of the project, a Waterfront Park would be located to the north of the Two Georges
Restaurant. A major focus of the Master Plan was to create improved pedestrian accessibility
into the Marina and a park-like atmosphere. Parking west of the Marina could be designated for
boat usage and to provide access to drift boats housed at the Marina. Current circulation
patterns had recently undergone redesign and reconstruction to provide safer pedestrian
access.
The Waterfront Promenade would stretch along the waterfront and consist of a covered
structure similar to a Key West style of architecture. Separate pedestrian usage areas would be
created and a parallel walkway would run along the bulkheads. The Banana Boat Restaurant
would be located on the east end, with the Waterfront Promenade wrapping around the Marina
frontage.
MSCW performed an in-depth analysis on the current signage, and multiple concepts were
developed. One of the concepts was reminiscent of a Florida Key West architectural style.
MSCW would be developing a detailed interior directional signage package that would be tied
together from a theme design standpoint.
Vice Chair Rodriguez left the dais at 8:37 p.m.
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The Waterfront Park would incorporate an interactive fountain, outdoor seating, performance
area, harbormaster's building and restroom facilities. MSCW proposed relocating the entrance
to the Two Georges Restaurant from the north side of the building, and the property owner has
embraced the proposed design. An interactive children's fountain and a public art element
would be included in the park.
A conceptual design was proposed for the harbormaster's building and restroom facilities. An
existing dive shop was located at the main entrance of the project. The design of the
harbormaster's building would be in the Key West style and was intended to resemble a
permanent structure. The harbormaster's building would be located on the first floor and the
second floor space could be leased. The fueling stations would be relocated to accommodate a
new fueling and pump station.
The park would include shade and canopy structures covering the performance and outdoor
seating areas. Movable furniture would be proposed for these areas as well. Open lawn areas
would be created for additional outdoor seating.
Preliminary construction costs were $4M for the Marina improvements, and $1.9M for the park
design and infrastructure utility improvements, for a total of approximately $5.9M. Mr. Perry
believed MSCW could deliver a quality design within the projected budget. The total estimated
timeframe for the project would be two years.
The next steps would be:
. Finalizing the Master Plan;
. Moving toward the final construction design;
. Obtaining a detailed field survey;
. Developing the final site plan;
. City site plan approval process;
. Final construction plan development; and
. Permitting.
Mr. Harvey commented on the timeframe for the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP)
permitting, noting there was an existing permit for the proposed slip improvements within the
Marina. Additionally, the permits that were anticipated to take the longest to secure would be
applied for early. The existing bulkhead and restaurant improvements were currently located
within the Intracoastal Waterway. The Army Corps of Engineers and DEP permitting would be
required for the relocation of the fuel dispensers, pumps and green shade structures.
Ms. Bright requested a motion for conceptual approval.
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Motion
Ms. Ross moved for conceptual approval. Mr. Hay seconded the motion that passed 4-0 (Vice
Chair Rodriguez was not present for the vote).
Herb Suss, 1711 Wood Fern Drive, inquired whether any thought had been given to selling the
boat slips for condominiums. Ms. Bright advised the slips could not be sold for condominiums.
C. Consideration of Proposal from RTG Construction
Chair Taylor noted RTG construction intended to purchase and construct eight single-family
homes on in-fill lots in the HOB and sell them to low-to-moderate income buyers. Once the
buyers qualified for the requisite mortgage and down payment assistance, RTG would
commence construction of the homes.
Ms. Ross left the dais at 8:55 p.m.
Chair Taylor and Messrs. Weiland and Hay disclosed that they had met with the developer.
Jeff Wooster, 828 South Road, advised he was President of RTG Construction. In addition to
the construction of the eight homes, he would be completing three homes on Sea crest
Boulevard by the end of the year, providing 11 new affordable homes in the HOB. RTG would
be funding the purchase of the land and the construction costs to complete the homes. At the
time of sale, RTG would request down payment assistance for qualified buyers.
Mr. Wooster, a resident of Boynton Beach, operated RTG out of the City as well. RTG had been
active in the Delray Beach Community Land Trust, having constructed more than 35 houses in
the past two years.
Chair Taylor and Messrs. Weiland and Hay noted their support for the project.
Ms. Brooks noted she was very impressed with RTG's work and had never known any company
to complete projects faster. However, she did wish to clarify the project would not be
completed in six months as it was RTG's practice to pre-sell the houses before they were built.
RTG was requesting the CRA set aside a source of funding for down payment assistance to
qualified buyers. Ms. Bright pointed out a line item had been set aside for the funding in next
year's budget.
Motion
Mr. Hay moved that the board approve the support of RTG's proposal. Mr. Weiland seconded
the motion that passed 3-0 (Vice Chair Rodriguez and Ms. Ross were not present for the vote).
D. Presentation of Museum of Lifestyle and Fashion History
Lori Durante, Executive Director of the Museum of Lifestyle and Fashion History, advised the
Museum was requesting the CRA consider the 1.4 acre site acquired by the Museum to be
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Meeting Minutes
Community Redevelopment Agency
Boynton Beach, Florida
June 10, 2008
included in the CRA district, and for the CRA to take ownership of the 1.4 acre site. The
Museum would raise the monies to build and operate the facility on the site.
Ms. Ross returned to the dais at 8:59 p.m.
Vice Chair Rodriguez returned to the dais at 8:59 p.m.
The project would enhance the City's cultural image, create a large economic boost for the City,
and complement the CRA's mission to revitalize the downtown area. The project would also
generate new jobs and increase tourism. Vacation and travel packages could be established
with the Marina and Schoolhouse Children's Museum. The Museum of Lifestyle and Fashion
History was the only museum in Palm Beach County approved to host traveling exhibitions from
the Smithsonian Institute. Exhibitions were national and international, and Boynton Beach
would be referenced in all of the Museum's marketing and promotional materials for any
exhibits hosted in the City.
Ms. Durante noted the National Gallery of Art and the Guggenheim Museum opened in 1937
during the Great Depression, stimulating the economy and providing hope and inspiration. She
believed the Museum of Lifestyle and Fashion History would complement and enhance the
economy of the City of Boynton Beach.
Teen Woon, of Singer Architects, presented a conceptual design of the museum. During
Phase I, the architects would work with the City's Planning and Zoning Department with regard
to the CRA's visions, goals and concerns. It was the intent of the Museum to create a world-
class, state-of-the-art facility to serve the community. The property was located on Sea crest
Boulevard and included the entire front footage between SE 2nd Avenue and SE 3rd Avenue, and
would allow for the construction of a 90,000 square foot facility.
It was the intent of the architects to create synergy between the museum, library and CRA
area, while being sensitive to the residential area through the use of landscape buffers and
transparencies. Mr. Woon provided a PowerPoint presentation of the proposed facility, a copy
of which is on file in the City Clerk's office. Exhibition areas and galleries were included in the
museum's design for the facility.
Michael Kaufman, resident of Boca Raton, noted he was President and Owner of Kaufman
Lynn General Contractors, located in Palm Beach County. Kaufman Lynn was established more
than 20 years ago and specialized in institutional and governmental projects. Some of their
projects included the Boca Raton Museum of Art and the Mizner Park Amphitheater, both of
which were completed ahead of schedule. Kaufman Lynn was currently constructing the City of
Miramar's Cultural Arts Park, a $25M project which will be completed two months ahead of
schedule. The proposed Museum project would provide positive economic impacts to Palm
Beach County, as well as to minority and women-owned businesses. Kaufman Lynn's policy
provides for the inclusion of minority and women-owned businesses in all of its projects.
Lawrence Davenport, resident of Delray Beach, advised he was Chairman of the Capital
Campaign Committee. The committee was in the silent phase of the campaign which intended
to raise $25M-$30M for the project.
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Meeting Minutes
Community Redevelopment Agency
Boynton Beach, Florida
June 10, 2008
In closing, Ms. Durante requested the board's consideration to include the project in the CRA
district and for the City of Boynton Beach to take ownership of the land, with the stipulation
that the Museum would raise the funds for the construction and operation of the permanent
facility.
Chair Taylor believed the museum would serve as an economic magnet for any community. He
was impressed with the entire concept, as well as the museum's association with the
Smithsonian Institute. The dilemma was that the museum owned 1.4 acres which were outside
of the CRA district. The museum was interested in having the CRA boundaries expanded to
include their property and have the CRA purchase the land to be leased back to the Museum.
Chair Taylor did not favor expanding the CRA area, and the CRA had no funds with which to
purchase the parcel. He wondered whether the museum could consider a land swap or the
museum's 1.4 acres for land inside the CRA, but owned by the City.
Ms. Durante favored the suggestion and indicated her interest in moving forward with the land
swap. Vice Chair Rodriguez also suggested including the museum's property in the CRA district
and removing something out of the CRA area.
The board agreed the project was excellent and could provide cultural and economic benefits to
the City. To that end, they wished to consider options that would move the project forward. It
was emphasized City would have to agree to the land swap.
Ms. Ross noted the museum's reputation for undertaking only the highest-quality projects in the
community.
Motion
Mr. Hay moved that the board direct staff to work with Ms. Durante and her staff to come back
with scenarios of the financial impact. Vice Chair Rodriguez seconded the motion that passed
unanimously.
E. CRA Budget Discussion
Ms. Bright advised the Property Appraiser's projected revenues reflected a $lM loss. The City's
loss in assessed valuation was approximately 10%, while the CRA's loss was 13.4%. The
inconsistency between the loss to the City and the loss to the CRA was currently under
investigation. Staff would report back to the Board once the information was verified with the
Property Appraiser's office.
The shortfall represented a significant drop in the CRA's Tax Increment Funding (TIF) revenue
and could impact bonding for future projects and the implementation of the Downtown Master
Plan. Staff considered various options, including privatizing services, and applying First-In,
First-Out (FIFO) and Last-In, Last-Out (LIFO) accounting principals.
Preliminary budget projections were included with the meeting materials. Scenarios suggested
to balance the budget included the elimination of funding for land acquisitions and new
redevelopment projects for the coming year. Staff sought input from the board in order to
prepare for the forthcoming budget workshop.
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Meeting Minutes
Community Redevelopment Agency
Boynton Beach, Florida
June 10, 2008
Susan Harris, Finance Director, discussed the draft budget. She explained fixed-operating
costs of approximately $1.2M pertained to departmental budgets and excluded insurances,
buildings and maintenance, and auditors' fees. The line item for the Executive Director included
salaries, membership dues and travel. Salaries were also included in the line items for Finance,
Planning, Marketing and Special Events.
The draft budget included expenses for the southern and northern trolley routes and police
services. These expenses would be reviewed to determine whether they should be cut from the
budget.
Ms. Harris noted the 29% increase in personal services resulted from the inclusion of
professional services, such as the MSCW and RTG contracts, which were formerly in the
Planning Department. Personal services should consist solely of administrative expenses and as
such, professional services would not be included in future budgets.
The board members agreed budget review was imperative, with certain "look-good, feel-good"
items being reduced or eliminated in order to remain focused on the mission of the CRA. It was
also agreed that only local travel should be considered.
Staff would consider the suggestions and provide various scenarios to the board.
XII. Future Agenda Items
The Heart of Boynton (HOB) grant program pertaining to NE 4th Street would be addressed at
the next meeting.
XIII. Comments by Staff
Ms. Brooks pointed out an error in a mortgage and note issued at the time the Homebuyers'
Assistance Program was established. An amended mortgage and note was prepared replacing
the "City of Boynton Beach" with the "Boynton Beach Community Redevelopment Agency."
Several of the people required to execute the amended mortgage and note posed legal
questions which could not be answered by Ms. Brooks. Attorney Cherof agreed to attend to this
matter.
XIV. Comments by Executive Director
Ms. Bright advised County Commissioner Mary McCarty contributed $300,000 from gas tax
funds to the CRA for 4th Street improvements. A thank-you letter was being drafted for Chair
Taylor's signature.
Resident Gertrude Sullivan had requested a donation of $4,000 for the community-based
Intergenerational Gathering Event. Ms. Bright had never donated more than $1,500 to a single
event, and she sought direction from the board.
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Meeting Minutes
Community Redevelopment Agency
Boynton Beach, Florida
June 10, 2008
Victor Norfus, 261 N. Palm Drive, pointed out the Intergenerational Gathering Event was
comprised of neighborhood associations to address youth violence and bring about unity and
diversity in the City.
The board members requested a breakdown of the costs be submitted to the City Manager's
office in order for the item to be placed on the agenda. Mr. Norfus indicated he would request
Neighborhood Services provide the information.
Mr. Weiland indicated he would donate $1,000 from his City Commission discretionary funds,
and Ms. Ross agreed to donate a minimum of $500.
xv. Comments by CRA Board Attorney
Attorney Cherof advised forms were circulated to the board members pertaining to the
purchase of two licenses held by Southern Entertainment Company. He requested the
members complete the documents, as they were necessary for the closing on June 15, 2008.
The board members agreed to provide the completed documents the following morning.
XVI. Comments by CRA Board
Vice Chair Rodriguez indicated he wished to be added to the list of attendees for the Travel and
International Downtown Association (IDA) 54th Annual Conference, as set forth in VI. Consent
Agenda, Item G.
Motion
Mr. Hay moved to approve adding Vice Mayor Rodriguez to the travel conference in Item G.
Mr. Weiland seconded the motion that passed unanimously.
Ms. Bright noted Ms. Brooks would be a guest speaker at the conference and would present a
session on Workforce Housing Solutions.
XVII. Adjournment
There being no further business to discuss, the meeting properly adjourned at 9:51 p.m.
~~~.-LQ I
Stepf<anie D. Kahn
Recording Secretary
061008
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