Loading...
Minutes 01-13-99 (2) MINUTES OF THE COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 13, 1999 AT 6:30 P.M., COMMISSION CHAMBERS, CITY HALL, BOYNTON BEACH, FLORIDA PRESENT Gerald “Jerry” Taylor, Mayor Kerry Willis, City Manager Shirley Jaskiewicz, Vice Mayor James Cherof, City Attorney Henderson Tillman, Mayor Pro Tem Wilfred Hawkins, Manager, Support Services Jamie Titcomb, Commissioner Diane Reese, Finance Director Nellie Denahan, Commissioner Mike Rumpf, Acting Planning & Zoning Director Opening Remarks Mayor Taylor called the Community Redevelopment Agency (“CRA”) meeting to order at 6:37 p.m. CRA PARKING AUTHORITY - Presentation and Discussion to be facilitated by Wilfred Hawkins, Mike Rumpf and Jim Cherof Mr. Hawkins stated that in the original Visions 20/20 Plan, parking was discussed extensively and additional data was gathered on how to handle parking. Temporary parking facilities and future needs for parking facilities were also discussed. At the last workshop it was determined that a consultant would be hired to work with staff to prepare a parking study. This will be updated this evening and what is hoped to be accomplished from the study. The second part of the discussion will be devoted on how the parking should be handled. The study will give direction to the CRA on how parking should be handled. The CRA could become a Parking Authority. To ensure that parking needs are met and are in the best interests of the public, the CRA should establish itself as the Parking Authority. Mike Rumpf, Acting Director of Planning and Development Mr. Rumpf stated that Visions 20/20 recognized that parking is a major element to the downtown redevelopment. Due to land value and the limited resource itself, the City should become the coordinator of public and private resources. Shared parking concepts will be introduced and most areas have a diversified usage of parking. Therefore, a parking study in the downtown district is being recommended. The study does not have to be limited to the boundaries of the CRA but could go outside those areas and that is being recommended. MEETING MINUTES COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY BOYNTON BEACH, FLORIDA JANUARY 13, 1999 The shared parking study will encompass the variations of peak accumulation of parked vehicles and the result of different activity patterns. What that means is that a person goes to one location and parks and then goes to numerous uses. The parking resource itself interconnects different uses in a downtown area. Mr. Rumpf stated these are basic concepts, but these are the concepts that justify a shared system. Two components of the resource will be public and private which would include on-street parking and off-street parking. Historically, retail parking required one space per 200 square feet and office use required one space per 300 square feet. This was changed to recognize the shortage of parking area and the shared nature of parking in the downtown area. A flat reduction of 35% was introduced and that has been reduced to 50%. Also, a provision has been added that if anything less than 100% parking requirement is met, parking must be shared. This concept is shared by other cities such as Delray Beach and West Palm Beach. Mr. Rumpf said that staff has sent out a Request for Proposal (RFP) and received two proposals for the parking study. Staff is in the process of evaluating them. A recommendation should be brought forth soon. Both proposals are of good quality and there is no need to seek new proposals. The parking study will involve- Evaluation of the resource, evaluation and characteristics of use in the downtown ? and development activity anticipated. Different development scenarios will be used to determine current demands and ? different potentials for demand. Consideration will be given to the build out and what redevelopment projects will ? take place as downtown is built out. Also, the study will evaluate parking structures. The next issue would be payment of the resources. One option is that the money is collected through user fees. Mr. Rumpf concluded his presentation. James Cherof, City Attorney Attorney Cherof stated that one of the reasons to consider making the CRA the Parking Authority is the revenue issue. This will be further discussed during the presentation using budget models. Attorney Cherof stated that presently there is no true source of income to the CRA. By designating the CRA as the Parking Authority, the CRA could regulate parking and could collect parking fees from both private side and public side. The money could be immediately invested in the CRA to fund projects. 2 MEETING MINUTES COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY BOYNTON BEACH, FLORIDA JANUARY 13, 1999 Attorney Cherof stated that by having the CRA become the Parking Authority, the revenue is taken from the City and given to the CRA. However, at some point in the future the CRA may become an independent CRA and the members of the Commission may not serve on the CRA. Further, with the CRA as the Parking Authority, it puts the CRA operationally closer to the development area. Attorney Cherof said that the Commission must decide if they want to become the Parking Authority and if so when. Attorney Cherof suggested that the Commission might want to wait until the parking study is completed and the Parking Authority could be a component of the study. The consultant could provide the pluses and minuses from a financial point of view. Mr. Hawkins noted that the original Visions 20/20 Plan had five priority projects and these projects were adopted and that $750,000 was to go towards parking. That sum could be loaned to the CRA for parking and parking related activities. City Manager Willis said that it is important that the parking issue be dealt with first before implementing the other projects. Ms. Willis also questioned that if the City provides the funds for the parking, should the future revenue go to the CRA and if so, it could be given as a loan to the CRA. Ms. Willis agreed that the parking study should be undertaken immediately and asked for a recommendation from the consultant on the funding aspect. Commissioner Titcomb asked Attorney Cherof if anything prohibited the CRA from being set up as a Parking Authority right away and could the City take the authority away from the Parking Authority. Attorney Cherof stated that the Parking Authority could be created now and the Commission could reserve the right to take the authority back to the City or could leave it with the CRA. Attorney Cherof stated that the statute that deals with Community Redevelopment Agencies reserves many powers to the City Commission. However, the City has the right to delegate the power to the CRA, but ultimately the power is reserved to the City Commission. Therefore, the opportunity exists to always bring the issue back. Mayor Taylor was in favor of creating the Parking Authority in order to expedite the projects and said a decision could be made when the parking study is submitted. Attorney Cherof stated this could be accomplished in the form of a Resolution of the CRA and the City Commission. One would grant the authority and the other would accept. Attorney Cherof said the Resolution could contain a sunset for a year or two. Commissioner Titcomb inquired if this would prevent leveraging the funds for long term capital projects. Attorney Cherof stated it would not prevent leveraging. However, an additional joiner by the City may be necessary through the City Commission. 3 MEETING MINUTES COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY BOYNTON BEACH, FLORIDA JANUARY 13, 1999 Vice Mayor Jaskiewicz inquired as to the time frame for the traffic study. Mr. Hawkins said they would be ready to select the candidate within the next two weeks. Mr. Rumpf stated that the difference between the two studies is that one has a time period of two months and the other study has a time period of four to six months. Mr. Rumpf felt the difference between the two studies is that one is being more sensitive to the current downtown status. Vice Mayor Jaskiewicz inquired if staff were considering a land acquisition prior to the study. Mr. Rumpf stated that would be part of the study. Mr. Rumpf stated that Visions 20/20 identified a couple pieces of property for structures. Vice Mayor Jaskiewicz inquired if the City owned the parking lot in the 500 Block and was informed it did. Vice Mayor Jaskiewicz inquired if the railroad would allow the City to place a parking structure on the property on the other side of the street. Ms. Willis said the City would approach the railroad again. Mr. Willis stated that at one point the railroad was reserving that land for repair work and other necessary maintenance. Ms. Willis further noted that there is a great deal of speculation occurring downtown and ownership of property downtown is changing hands and is driving the property values up. Ms. Willis felt it was important to act as soon as possible to declare some official public entity as the Parking Authority to stop the land speculation. Vice Mayor Jaskiewicz felt that this particular piece of property is in a strategic location and that maybe there is some land in the industrial area that could be traded that would be more appropriate to make repairs, rather than making repairs in the center of the City. Mayor Taylor asked if immediate action could be taken to declare the CRA as the Parking Authority and if the study said that was not the way to approach this, the City could always reverse the action. Attorney Cherof said there was nothing that would prevent the CRA from taking this action since tonight’s meeting is a regular meeting and not a workshop meeting. Mayor Pro Tem Tillman inquired what the liability would be if the CRA was declared as the Parking Authority and what area would this cover. Attorney Cherof stated that it would cover the entire CRA boundary area and there is no liability over and above what the City currently has in that area. Liability would occur in the future when the CRA takes specific property by property action or designates a parking program and establishes fees. Attorney Cherof stated that the simple designation of the CRA as the Parking Authority and the acceptance by the CRA entails no liability. Mayor Taylor favored this immediate action and asked for a motion. 4 MEETING MINUTES COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY BOYNTON BEACH, FLORIDA JANUARY 13, 1999 Motion Mayor Pro Tem Tillman moved that the CRA be designated as the Parking Authority. Motion seconded by Vice Mayor Jaskiewicz. Commissioner Denahan opposed the motion. Commissioner Denahan said she was not prepared to take any official action and was informed that tonight’s meeting was a workshop and would feel more comfortable if she had information furnished to her to make a decision. Mayor Taylor informed Commissioner Denahan that the meeting has been announced as a CRA meeting and is so indicated on the agenda. Motion carried 4-1. (Commissioner Denahan dissenting) Commissioner Titcomb asked for more information regarding the scope of the study. Mr. Rumpf stated that the two firms have expertise in this area and have done work in Florida. Mr. Rumpf stated that the scope of services is very detailed for the downtown area. Commissioner Titcomb inquired as to the cost of the study. Mr. Rumpf stated that it would be approximately $10,000 to $15,000. Vice Mayor Jaskiewicz noted that the Visions 20/20 staff did a parking study and inventory in the area and would hope that the new study would begin where Visions 20/20 left off and not redo all that work. Mr. Rumpf noted that the Visions 20/20 projected a need for 445 parking spaces in the immediate marina area. Mr. Rumpf stated that the Visions 20/20 plan did not study patterns of use. Mr. Hawkins noted now that the CRA has designated itself as the Parking Authority, more direction is now provided on how to approach the traffic study. Mayor Taylor inquired if the parking studies would be presented to the CRA as opposed to the City Commission and was informed that was correct. Mayor Pro Tem Tillman asked Mr. Rumpf what the boundaries of the CRA encompass. Mr. Rumpf explained the boundaries to the members. Mr. Rumpf stated that the study would exclude the residential CRA and include the CBD and possibly further west. Mr. Hawkins stated that the parking study does not need to look at residential applications. Mr. Rumpf noted that the private complex for the marina project does not want to share 5 MEETING MINUTES COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY BOYNTON BEACH, FLORIDA JANUARY 13, 1999 parking. Vice Mayor Jaskiewicz noted that the first floor of the project is devoted to the public. Mayor Pro Tem Tillman expressed concerns about the parking on the north end and wanted assurances that this part of the City would be included in the study. Mr. Hawkins stated that any area that has potential for commercial development will be considered. Mayor Taylor expressed excitement on the tone of the meeting and that nobody had ever thought that parking problems in downtown would be discussed. Ms. Willis noted that the next CRA meeting will take place on February 10, 1999 and the award of the contract should be presented to the CRA at that time. Also, official action to confirm the CRA designation as the exclusive Parking Authority at the February 2, 1999 Commission meeting. CRA BUDGET – PRESENTATION AND DISCUSSION Wilfred Hawkins and Diane Reese Mr. Hawkins stated that Ms. Diane Reese would present a snapshot of the financial condition of the CRA as of today. After the presentation, future financial needs will be discussed and what vehicles are available to help with future financing and the best utilization of income. Ms. Reese asked members to refer to the revised handout that she had presented earlier. Also, Ms. Reese noted that the overhead projector was not working. Fund Balance as of September 30, 1998 was $611,563. Ms. Reese stated that the Of this sum, certain amounts have been designated as follows: Façade Program 30,000.00 Core Grant 12,725.00 Home Improvement 47,737.00 Matching Grant* 175,550.00* Appropriated to 1998/99 Budget 250,000.00 TOTAL RESERVED 516,012.00 UNRESERVED $ 95,551.00* *Current monies available for new projects 6 MEETING MINUTES COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY BOYNTON BEACH, FLORIDA JANUARY 13, 1999 Ms. Reese noted that the $47,737.00 for home improvement is money received from Clipper Cove and the agreement provides that the money has to be used exclusively for home improvement. With regard to the matching grant ($175,550), this was set aside a couple of years ago for a potential matching grant. That money can be re-appropriated by the CRA. Ms. Reese stated that the amount appropriated for the 1998/99 Budget is $250,000. Therefore, there is a total reserve of $516,012 and unreserved of $95,551.00. The $95,551 and the $175,550 are actually unreserved and could be appropriated to any project. Mayor Taylor noted that the City merely brokered the Clipper Cove agreement and now this year the City received a percentage of their profits. Vice Mayor Jaskiewicz inquired if the expanded CRA area has been approved. Ms. Reese stated it has not been approved and the figures do not include the expanded CRA. Mr. Hawkins said future revenues would be discussed. Mr. Hawkins informed members that he and Mr. Rumpf are working with the County to determine the County’s approval process for the expanded CRA and how to proceed with that process. Vice Mayor Jaskiewicz inquired about the time frame. Mr. Rumpf stated approximately two months. Mr. Rumpf stated that it needs to be approved by the Board of County Commissioners. Mr. Rumpf noted that it was land along the Intracoastal Waterway is quite valuable. Mayor Taylor noted that the County is encouraging Eastward-Ho Development. Ms. Reese next reviewed Anticipated Revenues to be Received in 1998/99 TIF Taxes (Ad Valorem Taxes from City $ 208,736.00 and County INTEREST INCOME 33,000.00 TOTAL NEW REVENUE $ 241,736.00 TOTAL PRIOR YEAR FUND BALANCE $ 491,736.00 AND NEW REVENUE 1998/99 BUDGETED EXPENSES $ 491,736.00 The next item discussed was the 1998/99 Budgeted Expenses. Ms. Reese noted that the budgeted expenses did not include any salaries. All salaries will be taken from grant monies. 7 MEETING MINUTES COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY BOYNTON BEACH, FLORIDA JANUARY 13, 1999 Operating Expenses $ 17,896.00 Housing Program 254,586.00 Other Contractual Services 11,000.00 Land Acquisition 85,000.00 CRA Improvements 122,154.00 Furniture/Fixtures 1,100.00 TOTAL 1998/99 Budget $ 491,736.00 Ms. Reese referred members to the projected tax figures which indicate a 3% growth over the next five years and which encompass only the current CRA area. These figures show that by the year 2003 revenues could be at $348,569.00. Mayor Taylor asked what the $17,896 included and Ms. Reese said it applied to travel, training, vehicle service costs and basic operating costs, such as office supplies. Commissioner Denahan inquired if the parking study costs would come out of the “Other Contractual Services”. Ms. Reese stated that this amount does not cover any particular project and there is no specific project listed. Vice Mayor Jaskiewicz inquired what is included in the Housing Program ($254,586). Mr. Hawkins stated this would be the City’s contribution to the housing program for housing improvement and fix-up. Also, Mr. Hawkins stated now that Boynton Beach is an Entitlement City and the City now has a S.H.I.P. Program, the City does not have to set aside as much for housing because of those grants. Therefore, there should be a 75% to 80% reduction in the City’s contribution. Vice Mayor Jaskiewicz inquired if the full $254,000 must be used and Mr. Hawkins stated it does not. Ms. Reese informed members that Delray Beach made many improvements through borrowing funds and entered into loan programs and also bond funding. Ms. Reese stated that the CRA could also look at these methods for funding. Ms. Reese mentioned that the Florida League of Cities has a program, which is offered to small issuers. Several small cities and towns are combined into one big issue thereby obtaining a lower interest rate. Also, a qualified bank loan could be obtained. If this approach were taken using a $10,000,000 loan for 15 years at an interest rate of 4.56%, the annual payment would be $934,983. Ms. Reese noted that Delray Beach’s current revenue and budget is up to $2.8 million. Ms. Reese noted that the $4 million has been transferred out of the general fund balance and set aside into the CIP. Mr. Hawkins said that the CRA has the ability to fulfill its duties without using the City money. Various repayment methods were 8 MEETING MINUTES COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY BOYNTON BEACH, FLORIDA JANUARY 13, 1999 discussed. Vice Mayor Jaskiewicz noted that the bond issue would be repaid with CRA funds. Ms. Willis stated it was intended to make the method simple and incubate the CRA and recommend that the City set aside a certain amount of funds for the five key projects, which can be accomplished in 18 months. Ms. Willis stated that when next year’s budget is presented, there will be a recommendation made that the City has incubated the CRA for a certain amount of time and project that the CRA go out on its own and repay the City for future projects. Mr. Hawkins noted that the City Commission would have to approve any bond issue by the CRA. CRA ROLE AND PROCESS FOR PUBLIC/PRIVATE PARTNERSHIPS James Cherof and Wilfred Hawkins Mr. Hawkins said that some type of procedure needs to be put in place when potential developers come to the CRA with projects and partnerships. This would assist staff with technical input and would also eliminate having to deal with a myriad of people coming to the CRA with ideas. Mr. Hawkins suggested that some type of method needs to be determined for establishing the process to be followed. Mr. Hawkins said that the following should be considered for inclusion in any process: Identify corporate officers and individual backgrounds, ? Provide financial information on the principle companies involved in the actual ? project and also a requirement that current audit reports be provided, Presentation of an itemized budget for the project, and ? What type of assistance (financial or otherwise) is being sought from the CRA? ? Mr. Hawkins suggested that the CRA adopt this information as a requirement when someone presents a project. Attorney Cherof said that this has been done in the past regarding public and private joint ventures for projects. The City had established an incentive program for the central business district and the Quantum Park area. Attorney Cherof stated it is important that there be a level playing field for all members of the private sector that want to participate in development and to share in the resources of the City. Resources can be in the form of money or services, or both. Attorney Cherof reminded members that one of the principal provisions of the State Statutes that govern CRA activity is an emphasis to encourage private enterprise to participate. Attorney Cherof stated that the City has received three specific proposals within the last month or so. There needs to be some discussion on developing guidelines for the process. First, it must be decided if these types of proposals should go to staff first for 9 MEETING MINUTES COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY BOYNTON BEACH, FLORIDA JANUARY 13, 1999 analysis and then to come to CRA for presentation, or would you prefer that they come to the CRA first for presentation and later go to staff. Perhaps they should go to the Planning and Development Board first and then to the CRA. Attorney Cherof felt that the CRA Board should hear the presentations with input from staff. Attorney Cherof suggested that the applications be given to staff for analysis, provide feedback and fine-tuning and then have them presented to the CRA in the form of a public presentation. Mr. Hawkins said that an application should be developed that would contain all the rules and requirements outlined. Also, Mr. Hawkins noted that the CRA can request RFPs and if the CRA wants to do a particular project and the real estate for the project is known, the CRA can develop a request package requesting certain information. Therefore, there will be a process for unsolicited proposals and a process for initiating proposals. Attorney Cherof stated that the three specific proposals were made by Lamar Realty, Soma Development Corp. and Wahoo’s on the Wharf. Mr. Cherof stated that all three proposals were presented in a different manner. One was a letter stating they wanted to form some type of project and two presented more detailed proposals. Attorney Cherof stated that all proposals should be submitted by one method. A form application needs to be developed. Mayor Taylor questioned if the four steps should be followed before the concept is known to the CRA. Mayor Taylor said that the concept should be presented first and the applicant can ask if the CRA wants to look at the proposal. If the project were of no interest at all, why should a person go through all the application process first? Mayor Taylor said that the concept should be presented first and if the CRA is interested, they can recommend that it be submitted. Mayor Pro Tem Tillman agreed with Mayor Taylor in presenting the concept in this manner first. The project can then be fine-tuned if the CRA is interested. City Manager Willis also agreed with Mayor Taylor’s method of presentation. Ms. Willis th stated that some type of form would be presented to the members at the February 10 meeting. Commissioner Titcomb stated that the City needs to ensure the public that projects presented to the CRA are viable projects and economically feasible. Commissioner Titcomb agreed that some type of form is necessary, but the CRA needs to have an open mind when the projects are presented so that those projects don’t get lost in the bureaucracy. Commissioner Titcomb stated an approachability and flexibility should be 10 MEETING MINUTES COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY BOYNTON BEACH, FLORIDA JANUARY 13, 1999 maintained whenever projects are presented. Also, Commissioner Titcomb said that certain people need a certain amount of anonymity to bring a project forward and this is something that should be considered also. Ms. Willis stated that staff has a good track record in its availability to meet with people and that both she and the Mayor and the Commissioners have been amenable in meeting with people. Ms. Willis stated she would prepare a brochure for the CRA. It would say what the CRA is about and what we are facilitating. The steps for bringing forth a proposal can also be set forth in the brochure. Mr. Hawkins stressed that it is important that the CRA not be bombarded with proposals and ideas. Commissioner Titcomb inquired what the process would be if a proposal were approved. Will there be a fast track method to use to get the project through. Mr. Hawkins said that projects in the City had previously been fast tracked and there is a model in place to fast tract a project. Commissioner Titcomb inquired if these procedures will be available at the next CRA meeting. City Manager Willis stated they would try to get this done as soon as possible. Mayor Taylor stated that the three projects are represented this evening in the audience and if they would like to present their projects, they are welcomed to do so. After listening to the presentations, the members can decide whether they are interested in having them continue on or whether the Board is not interested in the project. Ms. Willis stated the intent was to (1) show that there are prospective partnerships, (2) all three have submitted different forms of information in their proposals, and (3) announce the groups making the proposal and to ask the Board’s guidance. Ms. Willis stated she notified these parties that their proposals would be on the agenda and if they desired they could present their proposals, but that the Board may not necessarily be prepared to deal with the details at this time. Mayor Taylor suggested that any of the parties that wished to present a conceptual presentation is welcomed to do so at this time. Mayor Taylor announced that the first project was presented by Lamar Realty (Boynton Beach Promenade Project). Mr. Larry Finkelstein stated he could present some preliminary drawings, which he had in his car. Mayor Taylor suggested Mr. Finkelstein obtain the drawings and the Board could continue to hear the other presentations. 11 MEETING MINUTES COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY BOYNTON BEACH, FLORIDA JANUARY 13, 1999 Soma Development Corp. (Gateway Park Project) Mr. Mike Arnold, President of Soma Development Corp. took the podium and informed the members that his company submitted a letter of intent regarding Gateway Park. Mr. Arnold said his proposal included a long-term lease for the 10 acres at the corner of Gateway and Federal Highway. Soma Development would like to build a world-class, mixed-use project that would include a residential element (perhaps a hotel), luxury residential apartments, office and retail use, all in a park-like setting, similar to Mizner Park in Boca Raton, or the Inner Harbor in Baltimore. This would be a place where people could gather for fairs and art shows. This could also be tied into another project that Soma Development is proposing for the downtown, which would encompass the Amphitheater. (This project has not been submitted.) The project would also include a park. Mr. Arnold stated that the proposal would be contingent upon a negotiated lease- agreement. Mr. Arnold stated they would do a survey to determine what the public would like to have on this property. Mayor Taylor questioned if Soma Development would be interested in purchasing the property. Mr. Arnold said they would. Mayor Taylor asked members if they would be interested in looking at this proposal further. Mayor Pro Tem Tillman said he would want to see where the project would go and the depth of the project, density levels and basically the design. Mayor Pro Tem Tillman felt this method was like “putting the cart before the horse”. Mayor Taylor explained that the Board is merely saying they are interested in looking at the project further and they would go through the process and bring the information back to the CRA. Mayor Pro Tem Tillman stated he would prefer to look at more formalized, detailed plans. Mayor Taylor stated that the Board is not agreeing to anything, other than the fact that they are willing to look at a more detailed proposal. Mayor Pro Tem Tillman did not want the CRA to have to listen to every single proposal being proposed, wherein the CRA would have to decipher what is viable and what is simply “garbage”. Mayor Pro Tem Tillman said a method needs to be determined to prevent every person who has a plan to bring it to the CRA. Mayor Taylor felt that it should be the intent of the CRA to listen to every idea and then determine if it is something they would like to see pursued and this is a method that the CRA must pursue in order to get people to bring ideas forward. Mayor Pro Tem Tillman stated he would have a problem with people continually coming to the CRA and that the CRA must review every project in order to give that person a yes or no to the project. Mayor Pro Tem Tillman stated he would like to have viable 12 MEETING MINUTES COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY BOYNTON BEACH, FLORIDA JANUARY 13, 1999 projects presented for the CRA to review and does not want the CRA to turn into a “walk-up Board”. Vice Mayor Jaskiewicz asked if the intent tonight was whether the CRA wanted to consider a project for this piece of property. If the CRA does not want to consider a project for the property, the Board will not pursue any more ideas. Attorney Cherof stated that this type of proposal triggers a simple process and the process is set forth in the Statute that deals with CRAs. Attorney Cherof said that if the Board is interested in the project presented and the CRA is interested in either leasing out or selling the land, the process is set forth in the Statute. Attorney Cherof informed the Board if they were interested in the project, the Statute requires the public be notified with proper notice in the newspaper that there are 10 acres of land in the CRA area and are offering it for redevelopment purposes. Proposals would be accepted and the proposal must be consistent with the approved CRA plan. Attorney Cherof also said that Wahoo’s is also considering the same type of project and asked if the Board were interested in looking at anything on the 10 acres other than a park setting. Mr. Arnold stated that his proposal is based upon a negotiated lease of the land (or sale) and what is placed on the property would be negotiated in the agreement and Soma Development wants to work with the City. Commissioner Denahan thanked Mr. Arnold for his presentation and said she would like to see something more concrete in writing. Commissioner Denahan also felt that the CRA Board should hear the proposals that are presented, before putting applicants through a long drawn out process of paperwork and documentation. Vice Mayor Jaskiewicz also expressed her desire to hear proposals for this particular property and then follow the steps outlined by Attorney Cherof. Commission Titcomb also felt that this method should be followed and that the Board must be creative and flexible. Commissioner Titcomb wished to hear the second presentation for the property and to allow these people to make a formalized presentation. Mayor Taylor noted a consensus on the Board that the next step should be pursued regarding this particular piece of property. Wahoo’s On the Wharf (Hotel/Resort/Conference Center Project) Dan McGrane of Wahoo’s on the Wharf took the podium and stated the difference between their project and the one previously presented is that Wahoo’s is looking to 13 MEETING MINUTES COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY BOYNTON BEACH, FLORIDA JANUARY 13, 1999 retain the park and is only interested in a small segment of the property for their project. Wahoo’s intends to limit their use of the property to a hotel and conference center. The park and the aesthetics of the park would be used in conjunction with the hotel. It is intended to make Boynton Beach a destination, just like Delray Beach. Wahoo’s would be interested in either a sale or lease of the property and had no preference. Vice Mayor Jaskiewicz asked what the projected ratio and use of the property would be by Wahoo’s. Mr. McGrane stated they would probably use one-third or less of the property. The main use of the property would be to keep the park intact. Wahoo’s also has the property next door and this could be combined to provide parking for the park and the community recreation center, which Wahoo’s would build for the City. It is intended that the recreation center would become part of the hotel, whereby the City recreation center would have access to the kitchens and the aesthetics of the hotel. Mayor Taylor informed the applicant that the CRA would be interested in looking further at their proposal. Lamar Realty (Boynton Beach Promenade Project) Mr. Larry Finkelstein said he was not prepared to make a formal presentation, but did have site plan drawings and some concepts for some specific properties. Mr. Finkelstein’s proposal involved properties located at the intersection of Boynton Beach Boulevard and Federal Highway. Mr. Finkelstein presented the drawings to the members for their review. Mr. Finkelstein’s proposal would utilize the sailfish for the fountain in the middle of the property in accordance with the Visions 20/20 plan. Mayor Taylor asked Mr. Finkelstein to give a general concept of his proposal and how it works with the City and it was not necessary for him to get into as much detail this evening. Mr. Finkelstein stated he is interested in redeveloping a couple of parcels of land in the downtown area and has specific ideas for the parcels and will prepare an incentive package, similar to the marina incentive package. Mayor Taylor asked Mr. Finkelstein if he was looking for a partnership with the City on the downtown promenade and the entrance to the promenade and the abutting properties. Mr. Finkelstein stated he did not wish to take over the City’s promenade project, but is facilitating the first block of the promenade and the grand entrance to that area. Vice Mayor Jaskiewicz asked Mr. Finkelstein if he was looking for land acquisition. Mr. Finkelstein replied he is not looking to the City for land acquisition. Mr. Finkelstein stated that land acquisition was already in the process. 14 MEETING MINUTES COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY BOYNTON BEACH, FLORIDA JANUARY 13, 1999 Mayor Taylor asked if the Board would be interested in seeing a specific proposal for this project. Vice Mayor Jaskiewicz stated she would be interested in a more specific proposal. Mr. Finkelstein was advised to prepare a more detailed proposal. Mr. Finkelstein asked what the next process would involve. Mayor Taylor stated that the next step would be to go through staff that will have a four-step process and Mr. Finkelstein will come back to the CRA with a more formal presentation. Mr. Finkelstein th asked if he could make his presentation at the February 10 meeting. Mr. Rumpf stated that even though the parameters of the process are not yet in place, staff will look toward conformance with City regulations and the Visions 20/20 plan and that should not take too long. Commissioner Denahan asked if the Planning and Development Board process review would be eliminated in light of the CRA reviewing the projects. Mayor Taylor stated that all projects must go through the Planning and Development Board. Mr. Hawkins informed Commissioner Denahan that the CRA couldn’t circumvent the regular process. City Manager Willis inquired when a project would go to the Planning and Development Board. Attorney Cherof stated it would be after approval of the specifics of the project by the CRA. PUBLIC AUDIENCE Ms. Kathy Shabotynskyj noted that there was one motion by the CRA Board without any public input and that there is no public input in the process until after the vote. Ms. Shabotynskyj asked if the process could be adjusted. Mayor Taylor apologized and stated the public could have addressed the Board at anytime and he did not make that clear. Ms. Shabotynskyj asked if there could be a status report of the ongoing projects, which have funding of $4.3 million, and how much has been spent to date. Mr. Hawkins stated it is the intent of the CRA to bring back the projects as they move forward. Everything is still in the design and development stage and no money has been spent. City Manager Willis informed Ms. Shabotynskyj that the CRA is in the process of assembling project processes and has determined that the Ocean Avenue project should be first. It will go out for bid and contracts will be awarded. 15 MEETING MINUTES COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY BOYNTON BEACH, FLORIDA JANUARY 13, 1999 Ms. Shabotynskyj asked if a status report would be given at each monthly meeting, even if nothing has been done in order to keep track of the progress for a progress report. Ms. Shabotynskyj asked when the design and the community input for the projects come into place and how the process works. Mayor Pro Tem Tillman stated that all this has been covered at previous meetings. Ms. Shabotynskyj stated that phase 1 has the property and the funding. With regard to phase 2, she felt it would possibly never come about because the South Florida Water Management District is opposed to it. Ms. Shabotynskyj stated she is spending time in meetings making suggestions that she hopes get back to the CRA for agreement and can be included in the design. Mr. Hawkins noted that the input that comes forth from the various meetings is being considered when it comes to designs. Also, Mr. Hawkins stated that all meetings have been public and as packages are brought forward, public comment would be encouraged. Ms. Shabotynskyj stated that the area on Boynton Beach Boulevard between Federal Highway and Seacrest has no real plans and is a gap in the redevelopment area. When people take the Progress Trail from the City Hall Complex down to the Marina, some synergy is needed for this area. Mayor Taylor asked Ms. Shabotynskyj to bring forth suggestions for this area. Vice Mayor Jaskiewicz noted that her group is dealing with existing businesses. These businesses will be given extensive landscaping in making them more attractive. This will have effect upon this area. Vice Mayor Jaskiewicz stated there has been a great deal of cooperation from the property owners. A formalized program is being prepared and should be ready to be voted upon at the next meeting of the Commission. Ms. Shabotynskyj informed the Board that the Avenue Association has been merged with the Boynton Ocean District Association. Therefore, there is one association for the entire CRA area. Mr. Rumpf noted that the Boynton Beach Boulevard Corridor has been identified in the Visions 20/20 Plan as one of the major corridors and there are specific and general recommendations for that corridor including signage, landscaping improvements and expanding the pedestrian corridor. There are also recommendations for land use of the open spaces. Ms. Mary Jo Bills said that she has concerns with the Marina Project. Ms. Bills asked if there has been any change with regard to Mr. Garcia. She stated that there was a 16 MEETING MINUTES COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY BOYNTON BEACH, FLORIDA JANUARY 13, 1999 newspaper article regarding a potential new contract pending approval of a new set of plans. Mayor Taylor stated that Mr. Garcia is still in control of Phase 1 and demolition has begun. He is obtaining permits for the seawall and met with City staff yesterday. There are plans in house that Mr. Garcia is working with Mr. Vargas from Miami for Phase 2. That is moving forward as we speak. Vice Mayor Jaskiewicz confirmed with Mr. Rumpf that there have been no changes in Phase 1 of the Marina Project. Mayor Taylor stated at some point during Phase 2, Mr. Vargas intends to buy out the entire project from Mr. Garcia. Ms. Bills inquired if a public forum would review Phase 2. Mayor Taylor stated it would have to go before the Planning and Development Board and will be publicly presented. Vice Mayor Jaskiewicz asked Mr. Rumpf when this would be on the Planning and th Development Board Agenda. Mr. Rumpf stated it would either be on the January 26 th agenda or the second Tuesday in February (February 9). Mayor Taylor asked if anyone else in the audience had any comments. Hearing none, Mayor Taylor thanked everyone for attending this evening. The meeting properly adjourned at 8:40 p.m. Respectfully submitted, _____________________________ Barbara M. Madden Recording Secretary (two tapes) 17