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Minutes 02-12-98 MINUTES OF CITY COMMISSION CONVENING AS THE COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY IN A DOWNTOWN REDEVELOPMENT WORKSHOP SESSION THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 12, 1998 AT 6:45 P.M. CITY OF BOYNTON BEACH ND CITY HALL – WEST WING – 2 FLOOR CONFERENCE ROOM “C” 100 East Boynton Beach Boulevard Boynton Beach, Florida PRESENT Gerald “Jerry" Taylor, Mayor Kerry Willis, City Manager Jamie Titcomb, Vice Mayor Mike Pawelczyk, Assist., City Attorney Matt Bradley, Commissioner Sue Kruse, City Clerk Henderson Tillman, Commissioner ABSENT Shirley Jaskiewicz, Commissioner (out of town) I. OPENINGS A. Call to Order Mayor Taylor called the meeting to order at 6:39 p.m. Vice Mayor Jamie Titcomb informed the Commissioners that the Agenda stated the meeting was to convene at 6:45 p.m. Therefore, Mayor Taylor adjourned the meeting for five minutes. The meeting was reconvened at 6:46 P.M. II. DISCUSS AND REVIEW VISIONS 20/20 PLANNING STUDY WORKSHOP A. Mayor Taylor turned the meeting over to the Consultants for an update on their progress. Present were B. : Henry Iler, of James Duncan and Associates Hank Skokowski and John Carline, of Urban Design Studio, and Kahart Pinder, of David Plummer and Associates Minutes City Commission Workshop Convening as the Community Redevelopment Agency Boynton Beach, Florida February 12, 1998 C. Mr. Iler informed the Commissioners that they have been working for approximately six months on the Vision 20/20 Redevelopment Program for Boynton Beach. There are three major topics that are to be covered this evening. First, we would like to make the presentation uninterrupted and then entertain questions from the Commissioners, until all their concerns have been answered. After that, public questions will be addressed. D. Mr. Iler explained what the Community Redevelopment Agency (“CRA”) means. The initial CRA was formed in 1982 and operated until 1984. It was basically a 180 acre downtown marina area and pointed out the area on the map (Ocean Avenue/Seacrest/I95). This was originally called a commercial CRA. In 1988 the boundaries were expanded to include residential sections between Boynton Beach Boulevard and C-16, which increased the area to 520 acres. It is intended to expand this original CRA area taking into consideration that the areas must qualify under State Statute. This means that the CRA must include redevelopment of poorer areas, as well. In looking at areas around the existing CRA down to the south, north and west, lands that can be developed must be included in the redevelopment in order to increase the tax base. A CRA gets a majority of its funding from the tax increment source of funding. When a CRA is established, there is a certain tax base for the area. As the community expands, the money is reinvested in infrastructure and public partnerships. Therefore, the moneys that would normally go to Palm Beach County, will go to Boynton Beach for infrastructure purposes. The following criteria should be used in establishing a CRA: 1. Conditions suitable for redevelopment; 2. Areas in need of redevelopment; and 3. Areas that are vacant, commercial, industrial and possibly residential. Mr. Iler pointed out that residential land is not as attractive because of the tax cap that has been enacted by the legislature where assessments on residential lands can only increase a certain small percentage each year, unless the property is sold. Taxes in a CRA are at the same level as other city taxes. However, as stated above, County taxes now become Boynton Beach taxes for CRA redevelopment purposes. There were a number of areas that were looked at, both south and north of the redevelopment zone. Ocean Avenue through Woolbright is mostly residential and there is not much opportunity to redevelop in that area. To the west, there is an industrial area that is bordered by West Industrial 2 Minutes City Commission Workshop Convening as the Community Redevelopment Agency Boynton Beach, Florida February 12, 1998 Avenue, which still has vacant parcels that could be redeveloped. Along U.S. 1, there are properties on each side that could become beneficial areas monetarily. Down to the south, there are properties on the west-side and east-side of U.S. 1. On the west-side there are properties also in need of redevelopment. There are financial benefits of bringing in this U.S. 1 corridor to the CRA. This could be used to help finance some of the improvements for downtown. There is a two-block area south of City Hall (Seacrest/Ocean Avenue) which should be included in the CRA. This would contain the Town Square Area that we envision. If there are any improvements on the south side of Ocean Avenue, the CRA should have control of that property for additional tax base purposes. Currently, the tax base in the CRA is about $75 million for the original area. It was expanded in 1988, for a total of 520 acres. We are having the figures calculated for the new areas, but our estimate currently is at least double or triple the current tax base. This will create a solid base in order to start financing improvements in the CRA area. Mr. Iler, pointed out the areas in red on the map, which in effect would bring the CRA development area to approximately 1100 acres. Mr. Iler concluded his presentation and asked Commissioners for their comments. Commissioner Bradley asked for a clarification of properties on the west-side of Industrial Avenue. Also, Commissioner Bradley inquired about the property south of Ocean Avenue. Does it make sense to take the line for the civic area and run that line west as well. For the future, Ocean Avenue is a wide street, and no one knows how much commercial will be developed in the next 20 to 30 years. Mr. Iler pointed out that the residential areas in that section were considered very good and might not be able to be considered a redevelopment area. However, the area can be looked at again for reconsideration. Vice Mayor Titcomb point out that some of the area at the south end of the map, in the southeast corner, does not currently belong to the City. It is a reserved annexation area. How will that affect the CRA’s current plan. Mr. Iler stated that at the present time, this area is not included as part of the CRA. However, if it is desired to annex this area, you could bring it into the CRA. Another option, is to find a street just north of the reserve area, and determine the boundary at that point. If this property becomes surrounded by CRA area, it would be in the best interests to annex the area. This would involve two separate processes. 3 Minutes City Commission Workshop Convening as the Community Redevelopment Agency Boynton Beach, Florida February 12, 1998 Commissioner Tillman inquired whether the east-side of U.S. 1 was to be designated commercial or residential. Mr. Iler stated that it would be better suited for residential, especially as you move closer to the water. There is not much opportunity on the west side of U.S. 1 until you get past the downtown area, because of the railroad tracks. Mayor Taylor inquired as to whether State approval was required to expand the CRA. Mr. Iler, stated there is no State approval required. However, CRA expansion must be approved by the Palm Beach County Board of County Commissioners. Once the Commissioners have determined the boundaries, a resolution would be adopted declaring the area in need of redevelopment; it would be presented to the County for approval. A hearing will be held, after all taxing authorities will have been notified. At this time, Mr. Iler introduced Hank Skokowski to the meeting. E. Mr. Skokowski stated he was going to consolidate the main points of the plan features and a handout will be distributed to the Commissioners at the conclusion of the meeting. Mr. Skokowski pointed out to the area on the map Town Square referred to as the . There are two major areas that need to be linked as the City grows. One is the Town Square and the other is the Marina District. The rooftops in this area are a different color than roof tops in other areas. This is a master plan and is a realistic vision that could be accomplished over a 20 to 25 year period. It needs to be phased in. The attractiveness of the waterfront area will continue to attract development. The Boynton Beach Boulevard Terminus is a plan to transform the roadway into a pedestrian environment. It is anticipated that as you travel east on Boynton Beach Boulevard from I95, there will be a corridor of palm trees, which will relate to the new lake and the mangrove forest. Mr. Skokowski demonstrated how this area can be traversed, both as a pedestrian and with an automobile. He also pointed out the different methods that this area could be utilized. Boynton Marina Secondly, the area was reviewed. It is envisioned that a pedestrian plaza will be built in this area, perhaps with a fountain or sculpture to be placed in the center. It could also be opened up to Ocean Avenue in order that citizens could be exposed to the water area. There are various designs being considered for this area. Mr. Skokowski continued to address the anticipated plans for this area. Also, water should be introduced at different sites including, but not limited to, Ocean Avenue and Federal, to remind people that they are approaching the water district. 4 Minutes City Commission Workshop Convening as the Community Redevelopment Agency Boynton Beach, Florida February 12, 1998 Also, a construction of a parking structure should be given great consideration. Commercial development in this area is not anticipated. With the construction of more buildings, the ground floor of these buildings could be converted into a pedestrian/retail shopping/café environment. If these buildings are built, parking will have to be addressed. The office market in this area is limited. However, with the attractiveness of the development and with the efforts of the Chamber of Commerce, the area should attract some businesses. Mr. Skokowski continued to go over the areas being developed in the marina area. Cove Area The next area that to be covered was the . This area will tie in greatly with the lake being built. It has the potential to be totally redeveloped. This is now referred to as the Boynton Beach Plaza. This area could become strictly residential, perhaps elevated slightly buildings, with parking below. Retail could also be added in this area. A conference center could also be considered, or a hotel. A six-story building could also be considered. Many uses could be utilized for this area including, retail shops, restaurants, hotels, etc. Nautical Museum The potential exists for a . Mr. Skokowski pointed out the area where this was envisioned, at the edge of the new Cove lake. 500 East Ocean Avenue (Old Town) represents a great contrast to other areas of the City in that it could be developed as a unique area with old downtown type character. This old town character should be maintained as much as possible. Also, specialty type businesses could be introduced, such as antique shops, coffee shops, bakeries, and old time candy shops. Dolphin The area behind the 500 East Ocean Avenue building is called Square. The idea is to introduce something like “City Limits” in Delray Beach. How do you make this area compete with existing areas in other areas. It is anticipated that this area would attract local residents, and would become very popular for City locals. With regard to Town Square, it is planned to remove the old Civic Building which is an eyesore. There is an opportunity to create a quadrangle, i.e., a public lawn or green which can be made available for crafts fairs, art fairs, festivals and the like. It will have to be considered whether the existing buildings should be incorporated into the new Town Square environment with designated purpose areas. Mr. Skokowski continued to discuss different ways that this area could be utilized, becoming pedestrian friendly is a priority. 5 Minutes City Commission Workshop Convening as the Community Redevelopment Agency Boynton Beach, Florida February 12, 1998 East Ocean Avenue Promenade Next area to be discussed was the . This area consists of one and one-half blocks with mixed use. The purpose is to improve this area into a pedestrian promenade. This area won’t attract major redevelopment. The quality of this area should be re-enforced and will become an incentive for residents to maintain their property. Boynton Beach Boulevard was the next area to be addressed. Emphasis should be given to a pedestrian walkway. On the south side of Boynton Beach Boulevard, the Town Square could be tied into Boynton Beach Boulevard to Federal Highway. Mr. Skokowski pointed out a particular structure along Ocean Avenue, which originally was the gateway to the City of Boynton Beach. That structure still exists and should remain. The nautical Compass Rose could regularly appear in different images throughout this area, including banners, architectural detailing, plaza detailing, etc. Also, sundials and compasses could also be utilized throughout the area . Mr. Skokowski pointed out that approximately 276,000 square feet of retail space would be made available. 152,000 square feet would be for restaurants; 205,000 square feet would be designated for office space. It is also anticipated that approximately 102 units of residential is being planned in this area. This does not include the existing residential. This area could be used for mixed use buildings, if the boat storage area does not get built. A six story, or perhaps up to ten story, building could also be introduced. This area offers great flexibility. The total non-residential square footage in this area is 663,000 square feet, which includes, retail, office and restaurant combined. This translates in floor area ratio ("FAR") on the west-side of Federal at about 36%, which is very realistic. On the other side of Federal, the FAR is approximately 59% because of the larger anticipated buildings and more floor area. F. John Carline was introduced and pointed out different areas on the map with regard to the vehicular/pedestrian relationships to the anticipated building arrangements. Mr. Carline invited everyone to come and view the maps so that all of the other details could be pointed out and experience a feel for the area. Discussions with interested parties have provided much input in the area as to what people would like to see, such as balconies and gazebos that would be characteristic to a marina area. He also pointed out character defining elements, which in effect show the different detailing that could be introduced to buildings, walkways, banners and other ornaments. Also, it is envisioned that a fountain will be introduced in this area as well. We will continue to examine other character-defining elements to enhance this area and are still open to more input. 6 Minutes City Commission Workshop Convening as the Community Redevelopment Agency Boynton Beach, Florida February 12, 1998 G. Kahart Pinder was introduced to discuss the travel linkage with the neighborhoods. How the traffic will be handled is a major consideration. A number of neighborhoods have been identified. One is the Gateway th neighborhood. On Saturday, January 10, we went into the area and talked to the residents for their input. Of course, speed was a major concern. We are working on a plan to identify these areas. These plans will be taken to the designers who are working on the Gateway project and hopefully they can be incorporated in their plans. The other neighborhood we looked at was the Ridgewood neighborhood. This area is from I95 to Seacrest to Boynton Beach Blvd. The major problems in that area were discussed. Seacrest through the City has been a major issue. It is currently four lanes with several bad curves. The speed on this road will have to be addressed. The City can consider applying to the County to reduce the size of Seacrest Blvd. from four to two lanes and the road can be landscaped. Mr. Pinder discussed other ways to reduce the speed and traffic in this area. Also, certain areas could be restricted. Transportation is the key to keeping the entire project together. H. Mr. Skokowski made available the handout to the Commissioners, a copy of which is attached to the minutes and this concluded the presentation portion of the meeting. II. QUESTION AND ANSWER PORTION OF MEETING A. Mayor Taylor asked about the area from Ocean Avenue to Boynton Beach Blvd., along the railroad tracks, east and what is envisioned for this area? Mr. Iler stated that a parking area is planned for this section. We also anticipate some off-street parking, with the possibility of a new smaller type building. However, as the land narrows down, we only anticipate landscaping for the present time. Vice Mayor Titcomb inquired with regard to the type of area just addressed, is it planned to introduce greenbelt and/or landscaping enhancement, which are not suitable for redevelopment and how would that work in with your plans? Mr. Skokowski said it is intended at this time to get the maximum number of parking spaces at this time and as a result, this area will not so much serve as a street anymore. However, a greenbelt area is a wonderful idea and should be incorporated. 7 Minutes City Commission Workshop Convening as the Community Redevelopment Agency Boynton Beach, Florida February 12, 1998 Commissioner Bradley asked about the time frame for the mixed use area. Mr. Iler indicated that this matter will continue to be reviewed at future workshops. Mr. Skokowski informed Commissioner Bradley that these workshops are a tremendous tool to communicate the different ideas and concerns that the City has for this redevelopment. Municipal leadership is the key to getting a master plan formulated. Heights and depths of building were pointed out and continuity was the key. What is being presented tonight is merely a plan. Commissioner Bradley indicated that designs need to be specific, but not restrictive. B. Mayor Taylor asked if the Commissioners had any other questions. There being none, questions were open to guests. The first question was presented by Delores Broening who asked if the plans and projects were on the drawing board and progressing as planned? Will zoning changes or variances be anticipated? Also, will the fees be the same? Tambi Heyden, Planning and Zoning Director, indicated that no project at this date has been ”locked in”. Ms. Heyden indicated some projects have received variances and others have not. Also, that the fees are the same. Also, Ms. Broening inquired about the time frame for the CRA becoming fully established. Mr. Iler indicated this could be accomplished usually within a four to six month period without much difficulty, once the boundaries have become established. Ms. Broening asked why the area north of the canal on Gateway, and on the east side of U.S. 1, why there was not much business development anticipated. Mr. Skokowski indicated this area was targeted mostly for residential and much can be done in this area, especially with the other buildings. From a tax point of few, this has a very good growth potential. Lastly, Ms. Broening inquired what the City and Duncan and Associates envision as the kinds of businesses to be included in the area just mentioned. 8 Minutes City Commission Workshop Convening as the Community Redevelopment Agency Boynton Beach, Florida February 12, 1998 Mr. Iler stated that no formal recommendations have been formulated to date, but that will be addressed at the April workshop, where corridor recommendations will be reviewed for U.S. 1, north and south. Mike Friedland mentioned that six of the original steering committee members were present tonight and commented on the wonderful ideas being presented to the meeting. Mr. Friedland inquired about the $75 million tax base in the CRA area, and how long will those taxes remain with the City, or will they go back to the County? Mr. Iler indicated that these funds would remain with the City as long as the CRA exists, which is usually 30 years. Bill Skaggs of Two Georges asked where the parking was anticipated for the waterfront? Mr. Skokowski indicated on the map where parking is currently planned. However, consideration for a public parking garage may be necessary as the area grows. This is another issue that has to be considered. There is a possibility that a 5-level parking garage may be necessary in the future. Mr. Skaggs inquired if building a parking garage would require a big investment from the private sector? Mr. Skokowski indicated that the parking situation will require a great deal of study and consideration. Currently, the plan provides for 200 parking spaces. It is anticipated that parking plans will be developed in different stages. Mr. Bulent Kastarlah, the Director of Development, responded to Mr. Skaggs’ question as well. Shared parking implies that by staggering parking hours, public and private parking could take place over the course of twenty-four hours on a seven day basis. Therefore, parking in evening hours can be made available in areas that were previously utilized for day time parking. We are working on coming up with an overall concept for shared parking, prior to completion of a parking structure. Harvey Oyer asked if there was a possibility of the Florida TriRail constructing a second rail, so that people can use the TriRail for access to the new downtown area? This could become an additional tourist attraction. 9 Minutes City Commission Workshop Convening as the Community Redevelopment Agency Boynton Beach, Florida February 12, 1998 Mr. Skokowski responded that he did know of any intention to expand the TriRail Service at this time. Mr. Pinder indicated he would check into the matter to determine if this second rail is being considered. Richard Gram asked what was the future of the building at the southeast project area. He was informed that the existing residential building will stay. Don Fenton asked about the small red square, south of Ocean, on the map. If you go east and then south, why are those areas cut out? Mr. Skokowski informed Mr. Fenton that those areas are not cut out, but are included in the larger yellow area. Stormy Norem then asked about the St. Marks church area. Will any of that area being included in the CRA? Mr. Skokowski said the area was discussed and is not being included at this time. Marion Shepherd inquired of the time frame for the taking of the Lake property? Peter Mazzella responded to this question. A permit has been applied for with the South Florida Water Management District for the entire drainage system. Comments should be received by next week. Thirty days after that, we should be given a permit. At that time, we can finalize the bid documents. Construction could possibly begin before the end of year, at least with regard to some of the piping. Bill Skaggs asked if it was still anticipated that two ponds would be built? Mr. Mazzella indicated that it was still the plan to have two ponds. The sizes of the ponds are still to be considered. Harvey Oyer made several comments. First, has there been any discussion nd with decreasing the traffic on Ocean Avenue; taking southeast 2 Avenue; nd widening 2 Avenue to divert some of the traffic? Secondly, the area west of Seacrest: consideration should be given to people wanting to purchase older homes for living and restoration purposes. Also, consideration should be given to people who desire to have a business in their home with a variance in the sign code. Steve Myatt asked how it was anticipated to make the lake area attractive. Peter Mazzella informed Mr. Myatt that the water level would remain at approximately 3 feet above mean sea level. The eastern side of the lake will have a retaining wall for the walkway, which will prevent salt water infiltration into the fresh water going into the mangroves. Average depth of the lake will be approximately 7 to 10 feet. This area will always be wet and will not become a dry retention area. Plants will flourish and will be an attractive 10 Minutes City Commission Workshop Convening as the Community Redevelopment Agency Boynton Beach, Florida February 12, 1998 feature. Mr. Kastarlah informed Mr. Myatt that it is anticipated that people will be able to traverse around the lake and that concerts and the like can be held at the lake at designated areas. Marie Sheperd inquired when the property around this lake will be acquired. Dale Sugarman, Assistant City Manager, informed Ms. Sheperd that the City Attorneys and her attorneys have been talking. There have been ongoing discussions. Because there has not been an environmental analysis, a phase 2 environmental analysis has to be completed. As soon as the results are known, discussions can resume. Dee Zibelli suggested that the plaza should be eliminated. Mr. Mazzella indicated that when the lake is in place, redevelopment of the plaza will be possible. Richard Gram voiced his concerns regarding the long term impact of the ocean front recreation area and that parking availability will be diminished. Kerry Willis informed Mr. Gram that the city transit system has been modified to include the condominiums in that area. The system can be modified further as the downtown area is developed. Also, consideration will be given to instituting a trolley service to areas that are frequented by residents. Mayor Taylor informed guests that the Inlet is County controlled. The City Beach has sufficient parking, and we have the ability to expand, as the City owns the land across the street. We can develop that into more parking. We are currently in negotiations with Ocean Ridge regarding this land. Mr. Oyer raised concerns about the water drainage which was addressed by Mr. Mazzella. Drainage is a very serious consideration and could increase the cost of the project by $3 to $5 million, as well as result in loss of prime land. These considerations are being examined. Delores Broening asked what the City was doing with regard to tiered zoning. Ms. Willis answered Ms. Broening’s concerns. III. ADJOURNMENT The Meeting was adjourned at 8:47 P.M. Respectfully Submitted: 11 Minutes City Commission Workshop Convening as the Community Redevelopment Agency Boynton Beach, Florida February 12, 1998 ________________________________ Clerk 12