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Minutes 07-14-09 MINUTES OF THE COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY BOARD MEETING HELD ON JULY 14, 2009, AT 6:30 P.M., IN CITY COMMISSION CHAMBERS, BOYNTON BEACH, FLORIDA PRESENT: Jerry Taylor, Chair Lisa Bright, Executive Director Woodrow Hay, Vice Chair Shauna Bridgeman, Attorney Jose Rodriguez Marlene Ross (arrived 6:33 p.m.) Ron Weiland I. Call to Order - Chairman Jerry Taylor The meeting was called to order at 6:30 p.m. II. Pledge to the Flag and Invocation Vice Chair Hay offered the invocation followed by the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag. III. Roll Call The Recording Secretary called the roll. A quorum was present. IV. Agenda Approval: A. Additions, Deletions, Corrections to the Agenda Mr. Rodriguez would discuss the Executive Director’s signing authority with Item D of the Consent Agenda. B. Adoption of Agenda Motion Vice Chair Hay moved to approve the agenda. Mr. Weiland seconded the motion that unanimously passed. V. Announcements & Awards: None. VI. Consent Agenda: A. Approval of Minutes - CRA Board Meeting June 9, 2009 B. Approval of Minutes - CRA Special Board Meeting June 16, 2009 1 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, Florida July 14, 2009 C. Approval of Period Ended June 30, 2009 Financial Report D. Monthly Procurement Purchase Orders Mr. Rodriguez pulled Item D. E. Approval of Travel for Board Chairman Mr. Rodriguez pulled Item E. Motion Vice Chair Hay moved to approve the Consent Agenda, less the items pulled. Mr. Weiland seconded the motion that unanimously passed. VII. Pulled Consent Agenda Items: D. Monthly Procurement Purchase Orders Mr. Rodriguez explained there was discussion at a City Commission meeting that some members felt they had not put enough controls in place with the current staff to turn the task of leading the Community Redevelopment Agency staff over to a voluntary board. At that time, he reminded the members they eased the controls by allowing the Executive Director to sign contracts up to $25K. The signing authority was originally set at $10,000, but was increased with the justification being the higher amount put the Executive Director on a par with the City Manager. He noted the City Manager has a $70 million budget and the Executive Director has a $6 million budget. Mr. Rodriguez explained the members gave the Executive Director seven times the authority than that of the City Manager. Mr. Rodriguez thought he would bring it up to see if the members wanted discussion on it. Board discussion followed and it was noted changing the policy would have no effect on the new Board, because the new Board could change it. Comments included while the City Manager had the authority to sign for items up to $25,000, he still reported those items to the Board and the Executive Director had not abused the authority. Mr. Rodriguez explained after the first month Ms. Bright was given the authority to sign, she signed a contract regarding 211 E. Ocean Avenue, when the Board agreed they would not spend any money on the property. Lisa Bright , Executive Director, responded the $25,000 related to an already approved work order and a budgeted line item, approved by the Community Redevelopment Agency Board in September of last year. The procurement policy was based on various contracts the Board already approved and were effectuated for efficiency. Mr. Rodriguez disagreed. It was clarified the expense was related to value engineering on how to effectively renovate the facility. 2 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, Florida July 14, 2009 Motion Mr. Weiland moved to approve. Vice Chair Hay seconded the motion that unanimously passed. E. Approval of Travel for Board Chairman Mr. Rodriguez reviewed the revised agenda item and explained the travel dates were changed. The item was a budget item for $608, and the July 2009 calendar showed the Executive Director was also traveling. He inquired why that expense was not reflected on the agenda item. Ms. Bright responded the request was for Board travel which requires Board approval. Staff travel was budgeted in the Community Redevelopment Agency Board approved budget. Mr. Rodriguez inquired what the total expense of the trip was and Ms. Harris explained the amount was under $1,000 for the Executive Director. If the Chair attended the meeting, the trip total would be $1,600. Chair Taylor was attending the meeting and had to reschedule the dates due to City Commission budget hearings. Mr. Rodriguez noted Congressmen Wexler and Klein both have local offices, and they would both be in town. He inquired why they could not meet with them while they were in town. Chair Taylor responded they have to work around their calendars. Their federal lobbyists set the appointment for them. The lobbyists do groundwork prior to the meetings as they have a relationship with staff, and they meet with staff who briefs the elected officials beforehand so they could have a effective meeting. Motion Mr. Rodriguez moved to approve the request. Vice Chair Hay seconded the motion that unanimously passed. VIII. Information Only: Chair Taylor read each item. A. CRA Policing Activity Report for the month of June 2009, and District Statistics for the months of May and June 2009 B. Boynton Beach CRA and Trolley Website Updates C. Complaint/Comment Log - Monthly Update Mr. Rodriguez noted there many complaints about the elimination of the south trolley route. He advised he voted against the elimination and was aware notification had been sent to community residents to voice their opinions about the termination of the route. 3 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, Florida July 14, 2009 Ms. Scutari , 2030 SW 24th Circle, inquired if the trolley route could remain during season, or remain if a fare was implemented. She advised many residents could not use the service because they could not get to the bus stop at the clubhouse. Chair Taylor explained the Community Redevelopment Agency did not have the funds to continue the service. If a fee was charged, some residents would not be able to afford it and ridership was poor. Ms. Scutari explained additional stops would increase the ridership and she further inquired if the service could be provided once or twice per week from November to May. When the service was originally offered it was one straight route and then the route was split into two servicing two different areas. She expressed the service was wonderful and it added a certain charm to Boynton. Since the item could be reviewed during the budget meetings to be held in August, Mr. Rodriguez encouraged Ms. Scutari to share her ideas with staff. It was noted the Shopper Hopper was available which offered door-to-door service at a reasonable price. Molly Stahlman , Molly’s Trolley, clarified the southern route originally was one long route that ran from Federal Highway to Bethesda Hospital, then to Leisureville and then onto the shopping district. The residents from Sterling Village, however, complained that it took a long time to reach the shopping district. There were two trolleys, and they changed the route to have one trolley service Sterling Village, Colonial Club and Bethesda Memorial Hospital in a straight route to the shopping district. The second trolley route was from Bethesda Hospital through the Leisureville clubhouses to the shopping district. The shopping district was defined as Wal-Mart, Target and the Boynton Beach Mall. An unidentified resident of Marina Village explained she used to ride the Green Line (south route) every day and expressed the trolley was a nice community amenity. Since many seniors could not attend the meeting and snowbirds were up north, she encouraged the Community Redevelopment Agency to take a second look at the service. The woman mentioned the trolley driver thought the service needed more advertising and that it deserved a second chance before it was discontinued. She indicated she would pay to ride the trolley and students use it to play hookey as well as to go to school. Staff was given direction to develop alternatives for the trolley and it was noted the trolley often did not have enough riders and it was not cost effective. D. CRA Press Releases E. Economic Development Activity Report Ms. Ross inquired about relocation costs for a non-profit agency. 4 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, Florida July 14, 2009 Vivian Brooks , Assistant Director explained Mr. Dykes approached the Community Redevelopment Agency to find a location for his non-profit. She met with him and gave him ideas. The members discussed the report was good as it described the activity but it did not indicate the outcome. Ms. Bright explained she met with an individual regarding a process for a childcare school. It was a way to advise the Board who staff was meeting with and what activity was or would occur; however, there would not be any short-term result. The meeting was held to assist a constituent bring something to fruition. At some point, some activity would occur. In the immediate example, Ms. Bright anticipated the childcare process would take about a year. Mr. Rodriguez inquired if they could add a column for achieved results so at some point in time they could enter the outcome. There was discussion of adding the column and indicating that action was pending or completed. Item 6 of the log pertained to a dwelling Mr. Oyer was moving. Ms. Brooks explained Mr. Oyer demolished a building west of the railroad tracks on Ocean Avenue. The building was structurally poor. Ms. Brooks approached Mr. Oyer about demolishing the building, moving a 1940’s cottage situated at 201 NE 1st Avenue there and leasing it as a business. The structure would make a quaint tea- house or art gallery and there would be a structure there instead of a dilapidated group of walls. The Community Redevelopment Agency owned the Ruth Jones Cottage, which is on the potential Historic Preservation list, and since staff was trying to enhance activity along Ocean Avenue, Ms. Brooks approached Mr. Oyer about the proposal. Mr. Oyer, however, indicated he intended to rebuild the structure. Ms. Ross inquired about a meeting with the Business Loan Fund. Ms. Brooks explained the fund was primarily for minority and small business lending, typically for start-up funding or businesses not yet ready to access traditional credit through conventional lending institutions. Creating a small business loan fund for micro-businesses was part of the Heart of Boynton strategy. The Board requested staff conduct further research; hence she had a meeting about it. Staff was investigating whether this was the only loan fund, because there were other small banks that were required to lend to Community Redevelopment Agencies. The Business Loan Fund was a not-for-profit comprised of a consortium of local banks that put monies in and lend to small and minority-owned businesses. The loans were riskier loans. Most of the businesses were small “mom and pop” home-based businesses. Any business that could meet the criteria was eligible for the loans. On a different matter, Chair Taylor indicated he was receiving rave reviews for the Community Redevelopment Agency’s efforts as it pertained to videotaping downtown businesses. There was consensus to modify the report to add a status/action column. F. Budget Update FY 2009 - 2010 5 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, Florida July 14, 2009 G. Downtown Merchant Mingle H. Closing of 4COP Liquor License Chair Taylor advised the Community Redevelopment Agency Board was able to sell the liquor license for just a few dollars under $60,000. I. Planning and Development Board Meeting Agenda - June 23, 2009 Chair Taylor noted JR Watersports would be requesting a conditional use/major site plan modification for a new boat dealership and ancillary customization component located along Federal Highway. He inquired if that was an item the Community Redevelopment Agency Board wanted to support, as he was thinking of the maintenance that would occur onsite. Ms. Brooks responded the maintenance would not be visible from the front, as it would be conducted at the rear of the building. While staff did not think it was the ideal business for the location, it was discussed that considering the current economy, Planning and Development and the Community Redevelopment Agency staff worked hard to attract a viable business for the site. The business would be an improvement. There was some environmental contamination from the prior tenants, which would also be addressed. Chair Taylor also noted there was an application pending for a Dogfather mobile vending unit outside the mall entrance opposite the former Ruby Tuesday’s. IX. Public Comments: (Note: comments are limited to 3 minutes in duration) Chair Taylor opened the floor for public comments. No one coming forward, Chair Taylor closed the floor. X. Public Hearing: Old Business: None. New Business: None. XI. Old Business: A. Cost Analysis to Implement a Trolley Service Fee Susan Harris , Finance Director, explained at the last meeting, the Board requested a revenue analysis for a fee-based trolley service. A Powerpoint presentation was given based on a survey of 300 people. 6 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, Florida July 14, 2009 Molly Stahlman , Molly’s Trolley President, reviewed the presentation. Highlights of the presentation included: In 2007, the trolley serviced 8,000 riders per month. ? In 2008, from January to June, they serviced 11,000 riders per month. ? In the past 12 months, they serviced nearly 130,000 riders on the northern route ? only. Ms. Stahlman reviewed the statistics of the riders, which included age, ethnicity, frequency and reason to ride. The majority of the riders rode the trolley to work or to a connection to get to work. The majority also indicated they would pay for the service and would pay fifty cents for such service. It was noted the Board had already approved ending the southern route and staff was directed to review a fare for the northern route. The upfront and monthly costs for a fare were reviewed. The cost of the unit to collect the fare was $6,000. Four units would be needed as well as an extra unit in case one unit malfunctioned. Security cameras on the vehicles would also be necessary. The total upfront cost was $34,000, which included costs of a magnetic card reader and cards, costs for the collection and how they would collect the monies Based on the number of riders, Ms. Stahlman explained at fifty cents per ride, there would be a deficit for the first year by $13,000, and then they would realize a profit of $21,000 per year going forward. Based on a fare of $1.00 and the number of riders who indicated they would pay that fare, the upfront costs would be paid during the first ten months and they would then realize a profit of $50,000 going forward. The pros and cons of the service were discussed. Ms. Harris noted she spoke with Palm Tran who indicated a fare recovery at 15% was typical. As it pertained to Boynton Beach, they were looking at a maximum of 10% if they charged a one dollar fare. Ms. Harris also reported there were federal regulations prohibiting charging more that $1.50 for the service. During the budget, if the Board opted to eliminate the Saturday route on the northern trolley, it would mean less revenue but it would realize a savings of about $70,000 per year. In terms of charging for the service, it would affect 18,000 riders. At $1.00 per ride, a profit of $18,000 would be realized and the cost recovery annual savings would be reduced. Ms. Harris noted the challenges of collecting the funds. She advised they could not do so at their current location and would need to make some type of arrangement with the City to collect the funds at a City location through an Interlocal Agreement, similar to how the Shopper Hopper operates. The methodology to calculate the monthly cost of the service included two police officers for Monday and Tuesday, due to the Community Redevelopment Agency Police officers working Wednesday through Sunday. The trolley was servicing 11,000 riders per month, just as they did in 2008; however, in 2008, the trolley ran on Sundays and that day was since eliminated. Consequently, they 7 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, Florida July 14, 2009 were serving more people per hour on the trolley. Saturday was their highest capacity day. The increase in ridership did not increase their operating costs although they receive a cost of living increase each October. Ms. Harris noted the trolley contract would expire on September 30, 2009. Should the Board renew the contract, it was anticipated the cost would increase due to Ms. Stahlman offering a better price last year to operate two trolleys as opposed to one. Next year the cost would increase to $70 per hour. The prior reduction in rate per hour for two trolleys was $65.50. With the elimination of the south route, the cost was $70. The calculations provided to the Board were based on $70K. There was discussion the Board should have been informed the rate would change if the south route were eliminated. Ms. Bright explained staff was trying to save $30,000. The trolley runs from 6:30 a.m. to 7:15 p.m. and three trolleycars were rotated. It was also noted Ms. Stahlman was well thought of in the West Palm Beach area for the trolley service she provides there. After discussion the item would be addressed during the budget and a determination whether the south route elimination should stay or if there was an opportunity to look at a skimmed down route would be made. In the interim, staff would review offering a south route two or three days at a week. (Mr. Weiland left the dais at 7:25 p.m.) B. Consideration of Amendments to CRA Programs 1. Homebuyers Assistance Program (HAP) Chair Taylor reviewed the agenda item and indicated staff was recommending approval of amendment #6. He inquired if staff was attempting to approve this administratively and not go before the Board. Mike Simon , Development Manager, explained the City currently approves the applications administratively and staff was requesting the Board consider approval in an effort to streamline the process. Reports would be provided monthly. Chair Taylor explained the reports would be after the fact and he preferred to continue to approve the applications as they arose. Ms. Brooks noted the decision to do so was fine; however, it made it difficult to time the closings. (Mr. Weiland returned to the dais at 7:27 p.m.) Over the last 12 months, the Board had to hold two special meetings to review and approve applications. Mr. Simon reviewed each of the options. Chair Taylor liked any of the first five options. The remainder of the Board agreed and there was consensus any of those options were acceptable. 2. Residential Improvement Program (RIP) 8 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, Florida July 14, 2009 Chair Taylor expressed he had the same concern with this program as the prior one, which was to approve the requests administratively. He also questioned why the first option was to increase the maximum grant award from $20,000 to $25,000. Mr. Simon explained in many rehabilitation projects, staff had to eliminate items needing repair in order to keep project costs down. The program was not a matching grant program. Discussion followed there had been prior dialogue to obtain additional grants for the southern end of town; however, there was no money and by increasing the amount of the grants, less of the population would be served. Mr. Simon explained the City rehabilitation limit was $50,000. Sentiments were also expressed the homeowner should bear some responsibility for maintaining the home. The program was standard among Community Redevelopment Agencies because it was less expensive to improve housing stock than to construct a home. Some of the southern area was blighted. The program was an income-based program and the reason most of the residents in the southern part of the City were not served was because their income levels were too high. Staff directed a mailing be made to the residents and a door hangar program be implemented. It was pointed out rental properties were excluded from the program and the matching grant program. Staff was encouraged to hold an open house to share information for the south end. The constituents served ranged from low to moderate income individuals. There was consensus to have the program amount remain at $20,000. Vice Chair Hay felt there may be some instances where they may need to go higher than $20,000. Mr. Simon noted they often referred applicants to the City if the resident needed additional assistance. The second option provided for replacing non-functioning or damaged windows with impact-rated single-hung windows when it was deemed doing so was more cost effective or appropriate than to provide hurricane shutters. There was discussion impact windows could still shatter; the object just may not go all the way through. If the windows were non-operational, and ingress and egress from the room was hindered by the broken window, putting shutters over the window would not make sense. It was noted some of the homes the Community Redevelopment Agency constructing used windows instead of shutters. After much discussion, there was consensus staff would decide whether to use a window or shutter. After additional discussion, it was ascertained staff routinely requests the contractor price out the cost of impact windows and hurricane shutters. The Board’s decision on the three options was to limit the amount to $20,000. The Board was in agreement with Option 2 as presented and not in agreement with Option 3 which was to approve the items administratively. 3. Commercial Façade Program Mr. Simon explained staff wanted to change the name from Commercial Façade Program to Commercial Improvement Grant in order to include tenant improvements and 9 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, Florida July 14, 2009 build-outs inside the units. In the past, one or two requests to do so had been made but the requests were deemed ineligible and were denied. Mr. Simon noted this would be helpful to new businesses and start-up businesses. Ms. Brooks explained the Promenade and Las Ventanas have about 62,000 square feet of retail space which has unimproved interior space, no bathrooms, walls or electrical amenities. Discussion included developers often give incentives to tenants for those improvements. In the downtown Master Plan Update, from an economic development standpoint, other Community Redevelopment Agencies allowed for interior improvements as their goal was to retain business. Staff wanted to retain and offer another incentive to locate to the downtown area. Chair Taylor was not in favor of allowing the interior renovations. Mr. Weiland agreed. Mr. Rodriguez would rather allocate funds to help attract and assist businesses, as opposed to having hurricane shutters, which was one of the recommendations of staff to allow for decorative elements. Discussion followed individuals owning two or three properties within the district could only apply for one grant. Presently, the Façade Program allowed a landlord with two separate properties to apply for one grant per year. The change would allow a property owner with multiple properties to be limited to two grant awards per year. Staff was also requesting the program application and grant approval be administrative. Further discussion ensued the grant should be a one-time grant leaving the property owner to maintain the façade. It was noted, however, if a business sold then a new set of circumstances applied. There was discussion staff would allow one business owner one grant every five years. If the property owner had multiple properties, they could only apply for one grant. The maximum amount of funding an applicant could receive was up to $15,000. There was consensus one property grant could be obtained every five years. and one owner with multiple properties could apply for only one grant for that property. Multiple grants could not be given for multiple properties. The decision was clarified further as a property owner with two properties could apply for a grant for one property. After five years the property owner could apply for a grant for the second property, based on ownership or tenant. Staff was amenable to recommendations 1 and 2. Recommendation 3 was eliminated. Recommendation 4 was agreed to as discussed, and Recommendation 5 was denied. Motion Vice Chair Hay moved to approve to change the façade grant as discussed. Mr. Rodriguez seconded the motion that unanimously passed. There was a motion regarding Agenda Item B1 – Homebuyers Assistance Program. 10 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, Florida July 14, 2009 Motion Vice Chair Hay moved to approve recommendations 1 through 5, but not recommendation 6. Ms. Ross seconded the motion that unanimously passed. Regarding the Residential improvement Program, the maximum award was kept at $20,000. Recommendation 2 was approved and Recommendation 3 was eliminated. Motion Ms. Ross moved to approve the changes as discussed. Vice Chair Hay seconded the motion that unanimously passed. C. Heart of Boynton Strategies Update 1. Alley Abandonment Status Ms. Brooks explained the Community Committee requested the alleyways be abandoned in an effort to reduce dumping. In working with Utilities, it was discovered many of the alleys had manholes and there would be no benefit to the abandonment because an access easement would still be needed. Staff discussed using a fence to close the alleyways with the Utility Department. The cost allocated for legal fees for the abandonments was about $85,000. Ms. Brooks indicated some of the funds could be reallocated to another activity, and the program could be implemented on an incremental basis. The gates would be locked and the Utility Department would have the key, which would prevent access into the alley and alleviate the dumping. Moving the manholes was not an option. There were 17 alleyways. The property owners would not own the property and consequently, they could not plant anything on it. Staff was only preventing the illegal access and the City would police the alleyways to ensure encroachment did not occur. The only change was the alleyways would not be abandoned to the property owners. Staff would investigate the cost of the fencing. The Board was amenable to the concept. 2. Consideration of Issuing RFP for Development of Small Business Program Ms. Brooks explained as an outcome of the Community Committee, staff was directed to look for assistance for small businesses and offer training to help businesses start-up and operate, or help small-based businesses grow. Staff was directed to look for free services. After much research, it was ascertained there were free services that individuals would have to attend either in Lake Worth at Palm Beach Community College, SCORE in West Palm Beach, or SCORE in Boca Raton. The Chamber of Commerce holds events at a cost. Some of the events were free to Chamber members, but they were not comprehensive enough for individuals wanting to start a small business or write a business plan. Staff wanted something comprehensive with a deliverable at the end, that would provide information about taxes, incorporation, different employment laws, lending practices, 11 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, Florida July 14, 2009 etc., and was unable to find a free source. SCORE had a fee and would charge for marketing materials. The Community Committee also felt the individuals attending the course should receive an award upon receiving a certificate of completion for the course, and thought a laptop would be appropriate. To offer a year of classes, the cost would be about $25,000. Discussion followed about piggybacking a contract. It was explained doing so still incurred a cost. Staff issued an RFP which was reviewed by Legal Staff. They also consulted the TED Center in Delray Beach as well as other organizations and a ballpark figure for a course was $25,000 to $30,000. Classes would start every quarter. Additionally the instruction may not even be able to be limited to the Heart of Boynton businesses. After the first year of the program, staff would evaluate the effectiveness of the program with the Board, what the outcome was, how many individuals completed the class, went forward and employed individuals, opened a business or began the process of opening a business. SCORE could provide limited training. Staff envisioned the instruction as more of a classroom setting and considered the Carolyn Sims Center, which had a computer room and next to it, the Youth Violence Prevention room, which could be used on Saturdays. Childcare would be available. Staff was looking at an income stream for the Youth Violence Prevention Project to provide the child- care and was trying to be community oriented in its implementation. Chair Taylor liked the concept but did not agree with offering a reward for completion of the course. (Mr. Weiland left the dais at 8:23 p.m). Staff believed the Carolyn Sims Center was the most appropriate location to hold the classes since the training had to be offered within the Community Redevelopment Agency district. (Mr. Weiland returned to the dais at 8:25 p.m). The training would be available City-wide. Motion Vice Chair Hay moved to approve moving forward with the training. Ms. Ross seconded the motion that unanimously passed. 3. Consideration of Hiring a Project Manager for HOB Strategies Ms. Brooks explained the Community Committee indicated they wanted a dedicated staff person to work on the strategies they identified. Funding was available for a position for a two-year duration. At a meeting last night, the Community Committee indicated the 12 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, Florida July 14, 2009 position should be a social service type of position to assist individuals in finding jobs and getting them to their jobs; however, by statute, that was not a Community Redevelopment Agency eligible expense. The position would be more to manage and implement what the strategy was, working with land acquisition and property owners, working on the Seacrest Streetscape and community policing items. There was discussion the monies should be funneled to the Homeowners Associations to do the work and they would be paid for it. The funding would come from the micro- loan fund allocation which would not be used. The concept was put together by the committee. Some of the Board members noted the job description consisted of duties being performed by existing staff. It was pointed out the issue was not spearheaded by Mr. Rodriguez; however, staff was advised the community wanted someone to represent them. Mr. Rodriguez acknowledged a member of the community had indicated the community was not represented and there were no minorities represented on staff. Ms. Bright disagreed and responded based on her interpretation, she brought the request forward. Mr. Rodriguez noted the make-up of the Community Redevelopment Agency staff was very different from the community. Gertrude Sullivan, 201 NE 6th Avenue, expressed her understanding Mr. Rodriguez was not allocating a position. Ms. Bright explained individuals from the neighborhood associations and the Community Committee privately approached her about the issue, and expressed concern specifically related to the fact there was not an African American represented on staff. Ms. Bright explained they bought it forward. After further comment, it was decided this was an item that could be reviewed during the budget. Mark Karageorge , 240A Main Blvd, indicated he supports economic development; however, he had a problem funding the position. He advised the Community Redevelopment Agency has addressed minority hiring The Community Redevelopment Agency had hired minority candidates in the past. When the Community Redevelopment Agency runs ads, the resumes are reviewed based on qualifications in accordance with a Supreme Court ruling. Ms. Bright explained she had no way to know whether the individual submitting the application was a minority. Regarding the last vacancy, three were minorities, meaning they were women. None of the respondents were from the Heart of Boynton. The position was advertised in the newspaper. Ms. Bright explained in 2006, when there were racial issues on the Board, the Community Redevelopment Agency paid $45,000 for an organizational audit which led to the promulgation of the Rules of Governance. The document defined Board roles and staff roles. Staff was still struggling with the practices. Another outcome of the study was they followed the hiring practices of the City and worked through Sharyn Goebelt, City Human Resources Director, to obtain a larger minority pool. Staff followed the 13 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, Florida July 14, 2009 same practices as the City, emanating from the Human Resources organizational audit for the Community Redevelopment Agency. Chair Taylor recalled at least three African American staff members. One of them, Shawanda Peoples, was from the Heart of Boynton, who relocated out of the area. Victor Norfus , 261 N. Palm Drive, indicated he was familiar with the request regarding the issue, and there was no mention of race. The issue at the time was there was no proper representation or communication with the community as far as the perception of what was being done. The committee was trying to have a better rapport with the community and have items more in-line with what the residents in that area wanted. Another item was the size of the Community Redevelopment Agency area and there were different needs in the different areas of it. Some areas required more development and other areas needed a better community relationship than what existed with the Community Committee. Hiring was an issue when another position became available as the community was not aware when there were positions available. Boynton’s Community Redevelopment Agency had the largest area in the State. Mr. Norfus was aware his mother supported a project manager, as it was thought it would bring the projects, the community and Community Redevelopment Agency closer together. He announced much of what was presented was not what was discussed, needed or addressed; rather they were things that needed to be done, but not in the manner staff wanted to accomplish them. He indicated there needed to be a position that better correlated to what the community wanted and what staff thinks it was hearing. Appointing a community committee member as a liaison was suggested; however, Mr. Norfus felt there was much difference between being a committee member, a Board member and an employee. The mission of the Community Redevelopment Agency was to clean up crime, improve blighted areas and purchase property. When meetings occurred, minutes were taken. Discussion ensued that when items were discussed at meetings, what was discussed at the Community Redevelopment Agency was different. Ms. Bright explained Community Redevelopment Agency staff takes minutes and they are distributed before the meeting. The timing of the meetings was sometimes an issue. As an example, a Community Committee meeting occurred last night and the Community Redevelopment Agency Board met the next night. Accordingly, no minutes were available before the meeting. Mr. Norfus clarified he did not disagree with what Ms. Bright said; rather he was trying to convince the Board a liaison was needed. Ms. Bright explained staff reviewed what needed to be done, reviewed community development and improvement job titles and others, and the project manager description had the broadest scope. The individual would have to have a real estate background, urban planning background and knowledge in other areas. Mr. Norfus explained he was trying to explain to the Board that a position was needed. It was not necessarily a project manager that was needed; rather, they needed an individual within the Community Redevelopment Agency that could better relate to the Community Committee, the Community Redevelopment Agency and the Board. Someone from the committee was not a proper person to do that, it was more like a liaison. A project manager was just a title. Discussion followed there was a disconnect 14 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, Florida July 14, 2009 in communication. Further discussion indicated the Committee should appoint a Chairperson to give updates to the Board. The motion given at the March 10, 2009 meeting was to gain community input which was what staff did. A Chairperson could be selected following Roberts Rules of Order. Motion Mr. Rodriguez moved to table the item. Vice Chair Hay seconded the motion that unanimously passed. th 4. Consideration of Purchasing Vacant Lot on NE 4 Street Ms. Brooks explained this item was discussed in May. A map was included with the meeting materials which reflected the Community Redevelopment Agency owned slightly over three acres. The offer of the lot arose because the lot was going into foreclosure. The Community Development Corporation paid $470,000 in 2007. The outstanding loan amount was $533,200. The size of the lot was nearly ¾ of an acre. A bank appraisal indicated the lot was valued at $300,000. The bank was asking for $330,000. Staff indicated they would obtain an additional appraisal. The cost of an appraisal would be $1,200. After further discussion, there was consensus to obtain an appraisal. 5. Consideration of Purchase of Public Art for Heritage Park The Community Committee participated in a trolley tour of the entire Community Redevelopment Agency area. One item considered was having public art as a component of the Seacrest Streetscape design. The committee viewed the Avenue of the Arts to select which piece would be the best for Heritage Park. The group chose the Butterfly Mandella at a cost of $3,200. Staff was recommending they purchase the piece and store it until the streetscape construction commences. It was also noted, the Butterfly Mandella piece would not be replacing the commemorative plaque that presently existed. Motion Mr. Weiland moved to purchase the piece. Vice Chair Hay seconded the motion. There had been previous dialogue about $10,000 worth of public art which was voted down. Ms. Bright clarified the piece would be purchased with stimulus funds. Ms. Brooks also noted if they wanted the piece, they had to acquire it because the Avenue of the Arts pieces were replaced each year. The funds were coming from the $1.6 million for the project until the stimulus monies were received. The consultants recommended the piece be acquired and ready. The artwork was a large piece and there was discussion if the price was negotiable. Ms. Brooks explained the price was originally $3,600. Barbara Ready , 329 SW 13th Avenue, speaking as the Chair for the Avenue of the Arts Commission, explained the price was excellent. Public Art typically sells for a lot more 15 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, Florida July 14, 2009 than what the Board was paying. At the end of the Avenue of the Arts exhibit, many of the artists prefer to sell the piece as opposed to shipping the piece to another location before the replacement arrived. She indicated Ms. Brooks had a place to store the art. If the Board wanted to approve paying for a pad to move the piece, it could be publicly displayed. The cost for the pads was between $7,000 and $10,000. Vote The motion passed unanimously. D. Consideration of lease renewal with Glaston Sims d/b/a Alex Sims Barber Shop In June of 2005, there was a purchase agreement that was approved by the Board. At the time, the property had two owners. There was 4,800 square feet of space. As part of the acquisition, staff included a leaseback agreement with the barber shop to remain at a cost of $10 per year. The tenant was afforded the right to sublet the second bay to a beauty center. The former director had initiated the arrangement, which was part of the City swap for Sara Sims Cemetery and Park. Staff was requesting the Board consider selecting one of the five recommendations offered and wanted to amend the strategic parks plan with the City to officially have a comprehensive amendment for the Sara Sims Park/Heritage Park. The Community Redevelopment Agency cannot spend funds without having the acquisition in a redevelopment plan. Guarn Sims , 3021 S. Seacrest Boulevard, explained his family originally was in agreement with the idea of relocating the barber shop for the mixed use project in the MLK area. They intended to continue to operate the business. He conveyed his father was appreciative of the original lease, which allowed him to operate the barber shop which was in existence over 30 years and they preferred the original lease terms. Mr. Sims reported his father took great pride in maintaining the building, and his father did not want to impede development. The sublease yielded $600 per month. There was discussion the Community Redevelopment Agency owned the property. On the Glaston property, they were paying $3,800 in taxes. They pay $300 per year for solid waste service. If staff rents the property for over $10 per year, the taxes would be about $3,500 per year. Motion Vice Chair Hay moved to continue with the original lease with the $10 per year with the understanding it would be a month-to-month lease so the City could move forward when they were ready to expand Sara Sims Park. (Recommendation #3) Mr. Rodriguez seconded the motion that unanimously passed. th E. Appraisal of property located at 201 NE 9 Avenue - Michael Villamarin 16 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, Florida July 14, 2009 Mr. Simon reported on June 19, 2008, the Board approved entering a purchase contract located at 201 NE 9th in the amount of $210,000. After reviewing the information and receiving an appraisal, he advised the appraisal came back significantly lower than the $210,000. Under due diligence, the Community Redevelopment Agency could cancel the contract or move forward with it. Motion Mr. Weiland moved to terminate the contract. Vice Chair Hay seconded the motion that unanimously passed. F. Downtown Master Plan Update TABLED June 9, 2009 Motion Ms. Ross moved to remove. Mr. Rodriguez seconded the motion that unanimously passed. Ms. Bright explained after implementing the Heart of Boynton Strategies, there was a request from Mr. Rodriguez to explain to the Board what ideas were being brought forward for implementation of the downtown master plan. Margee Walsh , Marketing Director, reported as part of the downtown economic marketing program, a video of various businesses were made. The videos were free to all the businesses located in the Community Redevelopment Agency district. This information would be provided on the Community Redevelopment Agency’s web page. It would also include digital and contact information, as well as a 60-second clip of the interior and exterior of the business and a brief interview with the owner who would discuss their specialty. Four of the videos were viewed; however, twenty videos were produced so far. The Board viewed videos of the proprietors for Boynton Beach Boat Rentals, Hammertime, Hurricane Alley, and Just Wings and a Few Other Things. Ms. Walsh reported the program was very successful thanks to some editorial coverage by the Palm Beach Post. Ms. Walsh was also approached by Jorge Pesquera, President and CEO of the Palm Beach County Convention and Visitors Bureau, who wanted to visit and look at the program. Ms. Bright also received calls from other municipalities about the program because it was done on a shoestring budget. There are 520 businesses in the area. The Economic Development Plan was adopted in November. An intern was hired who created the database but there were some snafus during training. Correspondence was sent advising business owners of the program and when staff did not receive responses, they began cold calling. The Palm Beach Post ran an article about the program, and since then, business owners were lined up for the video. Appointments were being set up unofficially, and staff was moving forward as quickly as they could to video the respondents. Staff hoped to launch the website by the end of August. 17 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, Florida July 14, 2009 Discussion ensued about whether benchmarks were put in place to measure the success of the program. Additionally, a question was posed if priority was given to businesses that were waning. The standard measure of any economic development activity was business retention or an increase in profit. Ms. Brooks responded staff has prioritized the businesses that responded. She clarified any business holding a Business Tax Receipt received a letter from the Community Redevelopment Agency. Ms. Brooks further explained the website would keep track of the number of hits, which would be organized by category, i.e. restaurants, automotive, etc. The normal method of economic development was reviewed and Ms. Brooks advised those measures was already in place. Ms. Sullivan inquired if Mr. Robinson came to the Community Redevelopment Agency for assistance. Ms. Brooks explained she met with Mr. Robinson and Mr. Dames and discussed what was available through American Recover and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) and the Community Redevelopment Agency program. The Community Redevelopment Agency had a grant program and Mr. Robinson was offered a Commercial Façade grant; however because that program required a match, Mr. Robinson was not interested in it. Ms. Octavia Bell was also offered the same thing and she refused as well. Ms. Brooks explained staff cannot force property owners to participate in a program. Mr. Robinson was referred to the ARRA SBA Loan program; however, it appeared Mr. Robinson was only interested in free money with no match. The video program would only cost staff time; they purchased two cameras, editing software, two tripods and two microphones for about a $1,200 total cash outlay from the Small Business Development Assistance line item. The videos are filmed on an ad hoc basis. The videos are not filmed at the expense of other staff duties. Ms. Bright explained the Economic Development Report reflected all the work they were doing. Mr. Rodriguez inquired what other big ticket items would assist the businesses downtown. There was lengthy discussion of the downtown area and having a workshop was suggested to answer any questions a Board member may have. Dialogue encompassed the Board members set policy and whether the Board felt comfortable micromanaging the program. The majority of the Board was not in favor of micromanagement. Mr. Rodriguez felt he had a fiduciary obligation to question and challenge staff and he was only asking basic management oversight questions. Further discussion followed regarding the importance of meeting with staff or the City Manager regarding issues. Motion Ms. Ross moved to table the item. Vice Chair Hay seconded the motion that unanimously passed. G. Master Calendar Ms. Bright explained this item was suggested by Mr. Rodriguez and brought forward by Attorney Cherof as a suggestion that one comprehensive calendar be compiled in order to determine how an idea comes about. It was reported there was no software available for that purpose. Ms. Bright contacted former Administrative Services Manager Ashley 18 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, Florida July 14, 2009 Buckley, who attempted to keep a master calendar, who advised she was unable to do so as it was an extremely comprehensive undertaking. Additionally other Community Redevelopment Agencies reported that was not the common practice. Mr. Rodriguez explained this item was an example of an approved directive from six months ago that was never implemented, and only when he asked about it is he told they do not do so. He indicated staff ignored the Board’s request and this was a point of issue. The members discussed the matter and it was noted the purpose was to have checks and balances, and what meetings they were attending. Motion Ms. Ross moved to delete the master calendar. Vice Chair Hay seconded the motion. Mr. Weiland commented Kathy Biscuiti and other Community Redevelopment Agency staff members worked very hard on the Fourth of July event and probably spent the day after working at the site. He hoped she had a day or two off to recuperate from the event. At the City Commission level, if a recording secretary worked until 11:00 p.m. or 12 midnight they start work later in the day. He explained that was the way it should be with the Community Redevelopment Agency as they are putting their hours in. It was noted it was the Executive Director’s job to manage that. Vote A vote was taken and the motion unanimously passed. Mr. Rodriguez explained the item was not something he initiated six months ago. . HApproval of Funding up to $50,000 from the Homebuyer Assistance Program to Latasha Norfus and Rakera Ramsey Ms. Bright explained there was a clerical error on the agenda: Items H and I had been tabled. Motion Ms. Ross moved to remove Items H & I from the table. Vice Chair Hay seconded the motion that unanimously passed. Mr. Simon explained staff was recommending approval of the item. Both appraisals came in at the contract price. The item had been tabled pending the new appraisal. Motion Vice Chair Hay moved to approve. Ms. Ross seconded the motion that unanimously passed. 19 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, Florida July 14, 2009 I. Approval of Funding up to $50,000 from the Homebuyer Assistance Program to Dallo, Glaiseda and Renel Bosquet Mr. Simon explained staff was recommending approval of the item and the same scenario applied to this request as to the prior request except the second appraisal exceeded the contract price. Motion Vice Chair Hay moved to approve. Mr. Weiland seconded the motion that unanimously passed. Peggy Miller, Seaside National Bank, wanted to clarify as far as the Homebuyers Assistance Program was concerned, the appraisal process was based on the Home Valuation Code of Conduct (HVCC) New Code of Compliance issued May 1 st of this year. Ms. Miller wanted to explain the process so the Board would be comfortable with only having a bank appraisal as opposed to two appraisals. The Home Valuation Code of Compliance was a new federal requirement banks needed to adhere to, which took the decision making process out of the hands of the originator or anyone who could financially gain from the home closing. The bank assigned the selection process to a third party that was not associated with the transaction and it ensured the quality of appraisals the banks ordered. XII. New Business: A. Affordable Housing Tools at a Glance published by the Florida Redevelopment Association Ms. Brooks advised the Florida Redevelopment Association, which is the trade association of Community Redevelopment Agencies, used the Boynton Beach Community Redevelopment Agency as a benchmark and best practice in affordable housing along with Delray Beach and Winter Park. A publication was created and would be distributed showcasing the work of the Boynton Beach Community Redevelopment Agency. The information will also go to the Senate and House of Representatives for distribution. The Board complimented staff. Chair Taylor was impressed the publication dedicated eight pages to the accomplishments and work of the Community Redevelopment Agency staff. XIII. Future Agenda Items: A. Appraisal of property located at 112 NW 10th Avenue - Jerry & Melody Brandom B. Consideration of GreenCentive Addendum to Direct Incentive Funding Program 20 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, Florida July 14, 2009 C. Property Exchange between CRA and City D. Consideration of Brownfield Designation within CRA E. Consideration of Funding Woman's Circle $100,000 for Purchase of Facility XIV. Comments by Staff Ms. Harris wanted to ensure the upcoming Budget Workshop, scheduled for August 10th went as smoothly as possible. She indicated she was asked for a line-by-Iine review, which was something staff had provided in the past. Ms. Harris requested further confirmation she was to include whom the expense was anticipated for. She inquired if that meant a list of vendors. Mr. Rodriguez explained they were looking for the same information as the City requested for it's budget hearings. XV. Comments by Executive Director None. XVI. Comments by CRA Board Attorney None. XVII. Comments by CRA Board Mr. Weiland apologized to Ms. Bridgemen for any stress they may have given her during the meeting. He also praised Ms. Biscuiti for her hard work and leadership. Ms. Ross complimented Ms. Biscuiti for the fireworks. Ms. Bright announced Ms. Biscuiti renegotiated the contract and saved the agency $12,000. Chair Taylor expressed the Board shared Mr. Weiland's sentiments. XVIII. Adjournment There being no further business to discuss, the meeting properly adjourned at 9:59 pm. 1::/ . " .'. J,,' . u, I '.. ,i lH( !' r. . Catherine Cherry Recording Secretary 071509 , i I 21