Minutes 08-10-10
MINUTES OF THE COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY BOARD MEETING
HELD ON TUESDAY, AUGUST 10, 2010 AT 6:30 PM
CITY COMMISSION CHAMBERS, BOYNTON BEACH, FL
PRESENT:
Jose Rodriguez, Chair Lisa Bright, Executive Director
Marlene Ross, Vice Chair James Cherof, Board Counsel
Woodrow Hay
Steve Holzman
William Orlove
I. Call to Order -
Chairman Jose Rodriguez
Chair Rodriguez called the meeting to order at 6:39 p.m.
II. Pledge to the Flag and Invocation
Mr. Hay gave the invocation. Mr. Holzman led the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.
III. Roll Call
The Recording Secretary called the roll. A quorum was present.
IV. Agenda Approval:
.
AAdditions, Deletions, Corrections to the Agenda
Mr. Holzman pulled Consent Agenda Items E and F
Mr. Orlove pulled Consent Agenda Item C.
B.Adoption of Agenda
Motion
Mr. Hay moved to approve the agenda less the items pulled. Vice Chair Ross seconded
the motion. The motion passed.
V. Informational Items by Board Members & CRA Attorney:
Vice Chair Ross announced she attended the Family Day event at the Carolyn Sims
Center and Park. She reported it was a great event and she was happy to be there.
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Mr. Orlove also attended the Family Day event. He advised the entire Board attended.
It was a nice event and he hoped it would continue.
Mr. Hay agreed and explained it was a great time. There was more participation during
the cooler part of the day. He hoped more people would attend the event next year.
VI. Announcements & Awards:
None.
VII. Consent Agenda:
A. Approval of Minutes – CRA Special Board Meeting July 6, 2010
B. Approval of Minutes - CRA Board Meeting July 13, 2010
C. Approval of Minutes – CRA Special Board Meeting July 20, 2010
This item was pulled by Mr. Orlove.
D. Approval of Period Ended July 31, 2010 Financial Report
E. Approval of Commercial Façade Grant to Harvey E. Oyer, Jr., Inc.
This item was pulled by Mr. Holzman.
F. Approval of Commercial Façade Grant to Intracoastal Medical Building
Condominium Association, Inc.
This item was pulled by Mr. Holzman.
VIII.Pulled Consent Agenda Items
:
C. Approval of Minutes – CRA Special Board Meeting July 20, 2010
“
Mr. Orlove made the following correction to page 7, 4th paragraph:Mr. Orlove said
Strategic Broadcast Media is no longer has not been in discussions with Barry Teller
Communications Telecommunications which owns and operates WXEL.”
Chair Rodriguez responded to a statement made by the Executive Director as noted as
Item C on page 8, which was “I have an outstanding battery complaint against Mayor
Rodriguez and did not feel it was in my limited staff’s best interest to allow him into the
building in the heightened state of emotions during his unscheduled appearance.”
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Chair Rodriguez referenced an email regarding the matter from Detective Robin
Christopher of the Ft. Lauderdale Police Department, which he read as follows: “I wrote
the report as requested by my Sergeant. I did not contact you because there was no
investigation, only a report.” Chair Rodriguez commented there was no investigation as
noted by the Police Chief in Boynton Beach either.
Chair Rodriguez also clarified the first bullet point on page 9 which was: “Ms. Bright sits
on various Boards both personally and professionally. For example, she sits on the
Marina Village Master Association Board and she has a direct impact and influence on
the marina activities in the downtown area.” Chair Rodriguez felt this statement was a
misrepresentation. He clarified in her disclosure, she only served on one Board which
was the Marina Board and she was an active employee of the other Board.
Motion
Mr. Orlove moved to approve as amended for the July 20, 2010 meeting. Mr. Holzman
seconded the motion. The motion passed.
E. Approval of Commercial Façade Grant to Harvey E. Oyer, Jr., Inc
Mr. Holzman had a concern about the actual color combination being approved, which
was thought to be ugly and an eyesore. He did not want to have another Las Ventanas
and expressed there must be a better color combination that could be used. Mr. Hay
agreed. There was discussion whether the City had a color scheme. The subject
establishment would be part of the downtown area and it should look presentable. It
was suggested the Board consider the overall look and feel of the buildings that would
be renovated. The façade would be peach with red awnings. It was suggested the
colors be viewed before approval. Vice Chair Ross pointed out the awning would match
the two buildings next to the establishment, but not necessarily the body.
Chair Rodriguez noted this request was the first time an applicant had provided a color
scheme to the Board and in the past, the Board approved these requests blindly. Mr.
Orlove suggested having a color chart so they could see the actual colors because
computers may distort the colors. Ms. Brooks agreed the colors may not be accurate
and suggested acceptable color combination recommendations from the Board may be
helpful for the applicant.
Chair Rodriguez requested the applicant provide paint samples to the Board and
requested a motion to table.
Ms. Brooks noted the City and the CRA did not have an approved color palette. The
City investigated it in the past but there was no support for it. Chair Rodriguez
suggested approving the concept of the facade grant contingent on the Board having a
recommendation of the color. The color may actually be fine but it was distorted through
the process. The Board could look at paint samples at the office.
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Motion
Mr. Hay moved to approve contingent on the approval of the color scheme. Mr. Orlove
seconded the motion. The motion passed.
F. Approval of Commercial Façade Grant to Intracoastal Medical Building
Condominium Association, Inc.
Mr. Holzman explained he did not see a picture of what the facade would look like.
Ms. Brooks explained not all applicants have the software to provide that information.
The last page of the agenda item explained the body of the building would be Powerpuff
with Audobon Russet for contrast. Color samples were provided on the last page.
Chair Rodriguez explained the members would have to go to the office individually and
sign off on the colors.
Motion
Vice Chair Ross moved to approve pending approval by the individual Board members
of the color chips. Mr. Orlove seconded the motion. The motion passed.
Ms. Bright confirmed staff would have a sign in sheet the Board members would sign
which staff could then move forward without bringing it back to the Board. Chair
Rodriguez confirmed that was fine as long as a majority was obtained.
IX. Information Only:
A. CRA Policing Activity Reports
B. Public Comment Log
C.Update of Discussion Items from Mayor’s Marina Meeting
D.City & CRA Policies on Mandatory Vacation Leave Requirements
X. Public Comments
: (Note: comments are limited to 3 minutes in duration)
Chair Rodriguez noted there were many people in the audience wanting to address the
trolley. He requested five representatives be selected to speak for the group.
Jerry Taylor
, 1086 SW 26th Avenue, read a statement into the record as follows:
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Good evening. A week ago, in an article in the Palm Beach Post, Commissioner
Holzman, speaking about me stated, “During Mayor Taylor’s time in office, he didn’t
work to upgrade the downtown Boynton Beach area.
I would like to state the following facts for which I was responsible:
I proposed and directed Visions 2020 Conference to formulate a City Master Plan
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around 1996, conducted a revisit of that conference to update the Plan in 2006.
That has resulted in the current Downtown Development Plan
Established the Ocean Avenue Bridge location and construction schedules
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Negotiated with DOT to upgrade downtown intersections to include modern traffic
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signals
Negotiated with DOT to establish and landscape medians on Federal Highway
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Established plan and design for retention Pond 9 (behind the Promenade) to
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serve downtown business districts allowing more space on their land
Established one-stop processing for business development
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Purchased and established a Senior Center on Federal Highway
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Built Kids Kingdom playground
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Restored historic elementary school to house a Children’s Museum
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Acquired $900,000 from the County for the completion of Mangrove Park
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expansion
Acquired $700,000 from the County for Boat Club Park expansion
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Acquired $1,500,000 for Intracoastal Park Design and Construction
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Acquired $250,000 from the County for the purchase and demolition of Maury’s
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strip club on north Federal Highway
Obtained $2,000,000 from the County for upgrade of Gateway Boulevard.
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(included curbs & gutters, landscaping and driveways.)
Acquired County and State grant funding for construction of Jaycee Park on S.
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Federal Highway.
Acquired $65,000 from the State for the study of the Boynton Inlet
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Led the effort to construct the Club House at Intracoastal Park
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Took a leadership role in the construction of Marina Village, Promenade, and Las
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Ventanas
Promoted the development of the Promenade walkway from the end of Boynton
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Beach Boulevard to the Intracoastal
Assisted in the closing of two strip clubs on Federal Highway and met with
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unsavory individuals and discouraged them from attempting to reopen a new
strip club
Hired additional Police Officers to eliminate prostitution and drug dealing on
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Federal Highway.
Took a leadership role in the $6 million expansion of the Library as a anchor for
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West Ocean Avenue
Established the Arts Committee.
?
Established the Veterans Committee and assisted in the development of
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Veterans Park on Federal Highway
Chaired the Community Redevelopment Agency Board when it won the
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Presidential Award, the top Award for Community Redevelopment Agencies in
the State of Florida
These are a few examples of my efforts up upgrade the downtown Boynton Beach area.
That was my goal from the first day I took elected office. This is a work in progress. It
will take time, money, a good economy and leadership that promotes harmony and
refutes divisive commentary.
Therefore, at this time, I formally request that my name be removed from consideration
for appointment to the new Community Redevelopment Agency Board.”
Sister Lorraine Ryan
, 912 SE 4th Street, expressed her gratitude to the staff and
Community Redevelopment Agency Board for the interest-free loan for their new
location. The Planned Approach to Community Health (PATCH) program branched out
into a smaller version of the program called Genesis Health Center. The official opening
and ribbon-cutting ceremony was yesterday and the Center was functioning since May.
She advised the Center was a federally-qualified Community Health Center. She also
expressed the City has three community gardens in the Heart of Boynton, which were
handed over to Victor Norfus. Anyone interested in having a plot should see him. She
spoke in support of the trolley and requested it be extended. It was a financial magnet
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to the City. She met with individuals willing to locate to the area as long as public
transportation was provided. If it were extended, it could travel down Federal Highway
to Woolbright Road by Sunshine Square.
Brian Edwards
, 629 NE 9th Avenue, applauded the Community Health Center. The
concept was identified in the Visions 2020 plan and it was identified in the Boynton
Assembly. He hoped the Center gained support of both the City and Community
Redevelopment Agency.
Mr. Edwards was named in a letter to the editor by Ms. Barbara Ready. In a letter he
wrote to the Board as Community Redevelopment Agency members and City
Commissioners about ideas he had, he was depicted as a sore loser. Those articles
lead the public who read the Post to think the City is screwed up. He stated he supports
the Community Redevelopment Agency Board and City staff and always supported a
full independent Community Redevelopment Agency Board doing the right thing and
sticking to the plan process and promises. No one brought to his attention anything that
would cause him to change his opinions. It was a shame his opinions, in his letters to
the Board, were shared or misconstrued by the public. He supported redeveloping the
Old High School long before Ms. Ready did. He supports redevelopment of the
Community Redevelopment Agency area and the Ocean Avenue district. He
supported doing the right thing, the right way, all the time.
Charles Hunt
, 103 NW 13th Avenue, commended the Board on their efforts to
redevelop the City. He requested the Board find out why he was not notified to vacate
the premises the day of the gas leak. He lives across from Poinciana, which was
activated. He was working inside the house and inhaled to much of the gas and wound
up in the hospital. He wanted to know why he was not contacted. He also highly
supported the trolley. He works with senior citizens in Broward ensuring their welfare. If
the trolley was stopped, he inquired how they would get around, since they no longer
have a license.
Chair Rodriguez explained the gas issue was a City Commission issue and he would
ensure someone from the City would contact him. Chair Rodriguez requested Mr. Hunt
provide his phone number for the record which was 954-648-8764. Attorney Cherof
advised he contacted the City Manager’s office and the Risk Management office this
evening about the matter.
Malvina Lynch
, 460 NE 27th Avenue, advised she had lived on Martin Luther King
Boulevard, and last year there was a police chase. The suspect’s car hit her car during
the chase. She spoke with the Chief of Police who indicated they would see what they
could do to help her get her car fixed. She explained now there was nothing being done
and the Police indicated there was no police chase. She explained there was a chase
and she witnessed the incident. She explained nothing was done to the Police and now
she had no car. Chair Rodriguez explained the matter was a City Commission issue,
and he would ask the Police Chief or a representative to contact her. She should follow
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up and determine where her complaint was in that process. They cannot, by law,
intercede in a Police matter until their case was completed. Ms. Lynch also spoke in
favor of the trolley.
Deborah Branford
, 2101 NE 1st Court, spoke in favor of the trolley. She rides it daily
and she indicated many citizens are disabled that need the trolley for shopping. The
trolley was needed for the senior citizens, students and disabled persons. It was the
only transportation that low-income and unemployed residents could afford. A one day
pass for Palm Tran was $4. It was unfair that they had to lose the service on the
weekend and unfair that the trolley employees would lose their jobs, adding to the
unemployment. She asked the Board to reconsider its impact on the community, and
some items should take precedence over others.
Roma Frederick
, 1001 North Railroad Avenue, was in favor of the trolley and she
stated the trolley helped mobilize her because it was handicapped accessible and she
was disabled. The trolleys help to add monies to the economy when citizens shop. She
praised the drivers who taught the children the meaning of respect and privilege before
the rules were posted. There is a dress code and a bond formed among the riders who
now know one another. Youth who have finished high school use it to travel to the
Florida Career Center. She explained she spends a lot of money when she goes out on
the trolley.
Madison St. Juste
, 161 NW 14th Court, was born in Boynton Beach and became
disabled two years ago. The trolley takes her to the doctor. It takes all handicapped
people where they need to go. Elderly citizens were now coming out and using the
service and she implored the Board to keep the service.
Floyd Zonenstein
, 2620 NE 1st Court, spoke as President of Village Royale on the
Green. He indicated it was a feather in the City’s cap to have the trolley service the
senior citizens. The residents of Village Royale on the Green and the surrounding
areas comprise 9% of the daily ridership. The patrons cannot afford automobiles or
public transportation and the service was their life-line. He requested the Board keep
the trolley service.
Joe Pucchio
, 1713 Boynton Bay Court, indicated he was a Vietnam War Veteran, who
relocated to the City from up north. The trolley allowed him to connect to others and
form friendships. He acknowledged the trolley will end on October 1st, and inquired
what they would do with the revenue. He suggested a solution such as having the
service Monday, Wednesday, or Friday or having a 50-cent fee. He explained many
individuals faced a hardship and he could not drive. If the service is discontinued, he
and a lot of people will be hurt.
Another resident of Boynton Bay Apartments whose name was inaudible explained the
trolley was important for residents who did not drive. They visit WalMart, Publix, the
Mall, Target and others. The service was important for elderly residents but also for
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students. The shopping establishments need customers and the impact on them should
be considered.
Tomas Boynton
, Founder of Citizens for Improved Transit explained he sits on the
Palm Tran Service Board, the FEC Coalition, and the SFRTA Citizens Transit Advisory
Board. He complimented the City and the Community Redevelopment Agency Director
for having the service. It was the model example of what the United States and Europe
was moving towards. The service was environmentally friendly, created communities
and allowed individuals to travel within their cities to shop, keep doctor appointments,
and other life necessities. They were quality of life trips without having to own a car. By
having the service, it gave individuals the option to not drive a car and buy gas.
Accordingly, those monies go back into the community. He encouraged all to
experience riding the trolley. It served a diverse population that interacts and creates a
social fabric. The City of Boynton Beach receives gas tax funds which are used in
various ways. He requested the Board consider the pros and cons of spending on road
beautification projects as opposed to investing the monies on quality transportation. He
pointed out there were a great deal of people attending this meeting who came out on a
rainy day in support of the service because it was very important to them. He advised
over 765 residents signed a petition which he distributed to the Board. He also
informed the Board the average ridership was over 10K a month and it increased 4%
because the Saturday route was eliminated, so the per hour service increased. Mr.
Boynton was volunteering his time as a transportation consultant for non-profit
agencies.
Susan Mandell
, owner of Thank You for Your Ride Room 101, and a single-parent
explained her son in Ocean Ridge took the trolley to the Tri-Rail to Lake Worth High
School and now has graduated and was attending Northwood University. She was a
proud resident in Boynton Beach. She agreed they trolley service should continue.
Barbara Franklin
, 2103 NE 3rd Court, represented the Boynton Beach Assisted Living
Facility and herself. She confirmed the residents relied on the trolley and use it daily.
The residents were handicapped, having wheelchairs and walkers, and they were
serviced. She pointed out those individuals were also present at the meeting. She was
a student at the Florida Career College, and it was vital she attend school in the
morning. She was dependent on the trolley. She does not drive or want an automobile.
Joelyn Sabodnic
, 625 Marina Village, commended the Community Redevelopment
Agency, Molly’s Trolleys and their staff for the service. She requested the trolley
service remain.
Stone Palmer
, 323 MLK Jr. Boulevard, a lifelong resident of Boynton Beach explained
she is a teacher. She is presently disabled and needs the trolley for doctor’s office, post
office, bank, work and other visits. She recalled there used to be three trolleys with
three directions but they took away the Saturday and Sunday route. She explained
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many residents depended on the trolley to frequent the different destinations in Boynton
Beach and it would be good if the trolley ran seven days a week.
Chair Rodriguez closed the public comments and thanked all for their statements. As it
pertained to the trolley, he advised the Board had not finalized the budget yet. The
preliminary discussion was to evaluate the cost of the trolley which was $436,000 of
Community Redevelopment Agency dollars, which are funds set aside to redevelop
primarily, the eastern part of the City. Their revenue decreased significantly, which
equated to less development dollars.There were projects in the Heart of Boynton,
Seacrest Boulevard and Federal Highway, and the trolley was a big ticket item. The
study conducted by the Community Redevelopment Agency staff indicated there was
very limited use of the trolley. He indicated that study would be compared to the study
presented by Mr. Boynton.
Chair Rodriguez pointed out the trolley employees were not employed by the
Community Redevelopment Agency; rather, they were paid by the vendor. Those
employees may be reassigned to another area. He explained there was still much
discussion to take place.
Mr. Holzman concurred with the Chair. In weighing the cost of continuing the trolley
versus the potential use of those funds and the impact the development of some of their
projects would have, the decision was primarily to cut those costs. The downtown was
in dire need of rejuvenation and the use of a trolley in the downtown area was valuable.
It was their responsibility to draw people to that area. The trolley service may continue
or could return when there were more funds. They have a limited amount of money and
many projects needing to be funded.
Mr. Hay agreed with the comments made regarding balancing the projects and pointed
out he was in favor of saving the trolley. He took note of Boynton Beach setting the
model example. The City was one of the few cities that provided full services to its
citizens and they were scrutinizing the budget to try to keep the service because it
impacted many people that have a need. Public transportation was the way of the
future. He indicated if they were redeveloping the downtown, they must evaluate what
part transportation would play in the overall plan. The trolley was expensive but they
would look at ways to save the trolley and explore all the options. He agreed with the
comments made by the Chair and other members on the matter. He appreciated
hearing the public’s comments and would do all he could to save it.
Mr. Orlove thanked all for coming. He explained the members sit as the Community
Redevelopment Agency Board and City Commission and they play a dual role. The
members have been in budget discussions as well with the City. One item they have on
their wish list was to save the Shopper Hopper. On Mondays residents could call and
the Shopper Hopper would pick up the residents and take them anywhere they needed
to go. During the rest of the week the residents scheduled their trips. He was in favor
of mass transit and was willing to consider, since the City was trying to save the
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Shopper Hopper, expanding the routes to the trolley area. He requested the public
understand they pay $200K for that service. The fees charged were 50 cents one way
or $1.50 round trip which did not cover the cost and its was subsidized about 90%. He
was not in favor of the Trolley or the Shopper Hopper separately. He was in favor of
having some kind of mass transit that retained both lines. The members had serious
considerations before them, but thought they should charge a fee and they have
discussed increasing it. He would like to see some type of transit survive for the corridor
or on Federal Highway and include the Shopper Hopper routes.
Vice Chair Ross was in favor of exploring the transit situation for the Community
Redevelopment Agency district and the City as a whole. She appreciated the comments
and commented as the District IV Commissioner, the Boynton Beach Mall Manager
called to advise her that he was receiving calls about the Trolley’s possible elimination.
The trolley was a link between the west and east side of the City. The members would
review the matter and wanted a good solution to it.
Ms. Bright indicated Mr. Boynton, she and Wally Majors, Recreation and Parks Director,
would be meeting the next day regarding the trolley and the Shopper Hopper to
ascertain if there was any synergy between the two entities and try to come up with a
solution.
XI. Legal:
A. Report by Board Attorney Regarding Investigation of Executive Director
Attorney Cherof advised within the next day or so, he would be forwarding a resume of
an investigator to go forward with the investigation the Board discussed at the last
Board meeting. He would forward the information to the Board in the same manner as
was previously done and would send the resume as well as a retainer setting forth the
terms and conditions. The investigation would begin within a day or so, and be
completed within three or four weeks.
Attorney Cherof would preliminarily make the decision about who to use and forward the
information to the members. He agreed to wait a short time before acting on his email to
ensure there were no conflicts raised, and if so, he would delay moving forward until he
found an alternative. This action was in response to a motion made at the July 20, 2010
meeting. The final motion was made by Mr. Orlove to investigate the relationship of the
Executive Director and Mr. Ferrer doing business as Sunset Entertainment and only that
issue and the Executive Director shall remain on staff pending the investigation. That
motion had passed unanimously.
XII. Old Business:
A. Approval of Contract between the CRA and B & B Underground Contractors
for Site Development of Ocean Breeze West in the amount of $431,721.08.
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Vivian Brooks
, Assistant Director, explained this item pertained to the $400,000 in
Neighborhood Stabilization Program (NSP) funds allocated by the City to the
Community Redevelopment Agency for the site development of Ocean Breeze West.
Six bids were received and the low bidder was B&B Underground Contractors. It was
noted REG was an architectural firm, not a civil engineering firm. Under the terms of
their contract, they hired G. Simmons and White.
There was discussion why staff would use a middle man, instead of contracting with a
civil engineering firm directly. Ms. Brooks explained REG laid out the plat, and
designed the underground utilities. REG has firms they work with all the time, i.e.
landscape architects and others. This item was a work order and the fees for Simmons
and White were embedded in the fees paid to REG. Chair Rodriguez inquired if staff
had qualified engineering firms to do the work. Ms. Brooks responded they did at one
point, but she did not know if the contract expired. She noted REG had initially
submitted the proposal with the work included.
Chair Rodriguez expressed he did not feel proper protocol was followed and turned the
item over to Attorney Cherof who clarified the matter was whether the work was
consistent with the procurement policy of the CRA and whether the policy was
appropriate for the type of work that they did. He suggested they could check into the
matter to see whether it was consistent and if not see what the cure for it would be.
Mr. Hay inquired if this was done in the past with this project. Ms. Brooks responded it
was. Mr. Hay inquired why the inquiry was made when staff had taken this route before
without objection. The architect can hire someone who is qualified to do the work which
was acceptable to the Board.
Chair Rodriguez explained he was uncomfortable with the answers and they have to
follow the right protocol. He requested it be tabled until the information was verified.
Ms. Brooks explained REG was doing the work on the Children's Museum and the City
added a scope of services for engineering services to it.
Motion
Mr. Hay moved to approve it contingent upon the finding out of Legal whether or not the
company was on the qualified list.
Mr. Hay inquired if that was a problem for staff. Ms. Brooks responded it was.
Mr. Hay repeated his motion that they approve this contingent upon the approval of
what the Attorney is saying that this engineering firm is legit.
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Chair Rodriguez inquired if there was a substitute motion or a second to the motion.
Vice Chair Ross seconded the motion.
Mr. Hay inquired again if this was a problem for staff. Ms. Brooks explained the same
rules applied to the City and the Community Redevelopment Agency had a very short
timeframe to sign the contract because the Community Redevelopment Agency had
more stringent performance standards for the $400K than the City had for the $2.9M.
That was why they made every effort to get the bid on the street.
REG submitted a proposal to do this scope of work. They could hire who they wished.
They hired other people all the time to do work for the Community Redevelopment
Agency such as landscape architects and engineering services for other projects. They
do so for the City and they were currently doing so for the City now. If it was a problem
with this project, Ms. Brooks assumed it was a problem for the City with the
Schoolhouse Museum.
Attorney Cherof confirmed they could make the determination tomorrow. The issue was
whether Simmons and White was consistent with the procurement policy of the CRA
and if not, he would make a determination of a whether it was a substantive deviation
and whether it warranted having to come back to the Board. If the finding was in favor
of the firm it was possible it may not have to come back to the Board. It was also
confirmed they must have an executed contract by August 30th.
There was a vote on the motion. The motion passed.
B.Status Report on Interest of:
i. Ruth Jones Cottage
ii. Oscar Magnuson House
Ms. Brooks explained the staff report was included in the meeting materials and she
sent, under separate cover, an email regarding letters of interest. Four letters were
received. One letter was for the Magnuson House from an artist group and three for the
Jones Cottage. The majority of people calling did not have the finances to undertake the
project, but staff was continuing discussions with various people.
Mr. Orlove commented the meeting materials mention this type of endeavor was done
with other communities but it did not state what they are doing with it or if they would
bring in revenue. Ms. Brooks explained the cultural uses proposed were not
moneymakers: they were more for a draw to the area as a place of interest. They could
in the future possibly pay rent, but the amount would not be significant enough to cover
the taxes and insurances. Once staff leased the property, it becomes taxable. The
property adjacent to the Bank of America site was appraised for $1M and they only
receive $600 a month rent for it. Chair Rodriguez inquired about two other parties that
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expressed interest. One was from Dadas. Ms. Brooks explained she emailed him and
he never responded to her.
Ms. Bright sought direction whether the Board wanted to extend the timeline. Mr.
Holzman preferred to extend the deadline another 30 days, have staff contact interested
parties and provide the documentation, such as emails and correspondence to the
Board regarding their efforts.
Ms. Brooks pointed out they had a little more information from one of the Respondents,
Christine Francois. Staff was looking to ascertain what the Board wanted and staff had
not vetted the Respondents for financial responsibility It was an unproven area and
unproven market.
Chair Rodriguez suggested issuing an RFP and providing the responses to the Board.
The Board would make the determination.
Ms. Brooks explained RFPs would have a limited audience. Restaurateurs and bar
owners do not peruse the legal notice section of the newspaper as opposed to
contractors and other parties that commonly work with governmental entities. Staff was
preparing an ad for the Coastal Star which was appropriate for the market and
preparing to put it on Facebook and on their website. She was meeting tomorrow with
someone who has great restaurants in Palm Beach County. Chair Rodriguez explained
staff could spend alot of time doing that, but they needed to put a proposal on the street.
He wanted to know what incentives were going to be provided to the potential operator.
Ms. Brooks pointed out that was a Board decision. Chair Rodriguez differed and
assumed the Executive Director would make the recommendation about what
incentives would be available so entities could respond.
Ms. Bright explained staff put it on the commercial LoopNet and included those stats,
which was typically the site restauranteurs and real estate brokers go to and there was
some interest there. As a result of that interest, she was looking for direction from the
Board whether they wanted to do an RFP and include financial incentives, and list it in
LoopNet that staff was willing to incentivize and appropriate a cost of up to $300,000. If
the Board reached consensus or moved for staff to issue an RFP, they could do so.
Staff was already doing what they could from a general marketing standpoint via
Facebook, LoopNet, signs and ads in the Coastal Star.
Mr. Holzman wanted the ad put in the paper and to see what kind of responses would
be received and at that point, in 30 days, put out an RFP. Chair Rodriguez commented
staff could do both simultaneously, and the Board should be advertising the RFP not the
property.
Mr. Orlove sought clarification whether they were discussing both properties. He
pointed out the in the past, the Board was discussing some type of food establishment
for the Ruth Jones Cottage with interested parties, and two people came forward. He
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inquired whether it was more beneficial for those two parties to put together a
presentation and staff could pick and choose one, at least for the Jones Cottage. As to
the Magnuson house, he would like to see what they were proposing, but he was
unsure it was put together correctly. Mr. Orlove liked the idea of having a working
studio and an art component on Ocean Avenue. He wanted to move forward with the
Ruth Jones Cottage and have a presentation at the next meeting. Two concrete
responses were received: Christine Francois and another proposal that was submitted
to Mike Simon about a different concept.
Mr. Holzman was not in favor of moving forward with anything until staff reached out to
the market to determine a response. If staff issued an RFP, interested parties would put
together a proposal.
Mr. Orlove commented Kim Kelly who has a good reputation as a restaurateur was also
interested and the Board had three proposals. The Board had publically been
discussing this in April and May and now it was August. He questioned the need to wait
another 30 days.
Chair Rodriguez commented he envisioned the property would go out to RFP and they
would receive a proposal. Attorney Cherof explained there was no requirement to
formalize the process but RFPs were the preferred legal process. There was a set
formula to do so and a set formula for identifying who would offer the best proposal and
then to negotiate. Chair Rodriguez did not think it would take much longer to issue an
RFP which outlined the incentives.
Mr. Hay agreed with Mr. Orlove. He had heard the Board say over and over to move
expeditiously. Now they had three viable proposals and it was appropriate for them to
do what they said and hear the proposals. It was pointed out the Board could direct
staff to reach out to the three Respondents and/or advertise it indicating they needed to
come to staff by a certain date. Chair Rodriguez inquired whether staff needed to
provide the incentives first. Ms. Bright explained a person needed to come to staff with
an operating pro forma and then staff goes to the Board with their recommendations.
Chair Rodriguez thought the process was backwards. He explained not everyone knew
what incentives were available in Boynton Beach. He explained if you want to attract a
broader response, staff should indicate what was available.
Ms. Bright explained they give rent subsidies, so they could have rent abatement for 18
months. With a retail lease they could pay it back. It could be a fixed number. The
framework would be the current economic subsidy models and maybe an additional
incentive if the Respondent wanted extra.
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Motion
Mr. Orlove moved for CRA staff to contact the individuals that have so far brought
proposals to their attention, to reach out for them to come back with formalized proposal
and advertise specifically the Ruth Jones Cottage so they could discuss it at the next
meeting. Mr. Hay seconded the motion. Mr. Orlove clarified he wanted to pursue both
avenues, reaching out to the Respondents and to the broader community. This could
offer more incentives for others to come forward to bring proposals.
Chair Rodriguez thought proceeding in that manner may give a competitive advantage
to some Respondents. Mr. Orlove inquired how long they were going to wait. If staff
advertised it and gave it a cut-off date, this would allow people to put a proposal
together
Mr. Orlove amended his motion that the three individuals and any others that said they
were somewhat interested in this property, that CRA staff contact them to get formalized
proposals from them to develop the Ruth Jones Cottage and advertise it in the Coastal
Star and any other means and have a deadline of submitting proposals by a certain
date that would allow the Board to look at these proposals at their next meeting.
Ms. Bright explained 60 days was a short timeline but they do have responses. She
recommended taking the actions currently as described by the Attorney. The first time
they could deliver them was by the October meeting. Staff would formulate the
incentives before advertising.
Mr. Orlove wanted to amend his motion only regarding the deadline for submitting
proposals to the Community Redevelopment Agency staff in enough time to discuss it at
the October meeting. The deadline would be to submit by the 20th of September. The
Respondents would make a proposal presentation lasting about 10 minutes and have a
full business plan including financials.
Ms. Bright recommended having financials or obtaining a 3rd party verifier. Ms. Brooks
also inquired, since they have varied types of businesses calling, whether they wanted
to limit the type of business that would be located there, such as only considering
restaurants.
Mr. Orlove clarified his amendment was not restricted only to restaurants, but other
types of establishments as well. Mr. Hay seconded the amendment.
Chair Rodriguez opened the floor for public comment:
Kim Kelly
explained redevelopment was about the community and small businesses.
She requested when reviewing the responses, redevelopment move forward. Season
was around the corner and the Board should consider that when they issued their
timelines.
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Brian Edwards
, 629 NE 9th Avenue, cautioned the Board to be consistent. If you issue
RFPs, issue them all the time. He has attended the meetings and heard the urgency.
The Board requested action and received the response, but now it changed. He
commented the Board decided to go with the Holiday House as the Community
Redevelopment Agency office as opposed to the Magnuson House. He would like to
see more clarity given to the staff and to City staff. He indicated the Board should send
a consistent message about what they were doing all the time.
Motion
There was a vote on the motion. The motion passed.
C.Discussion Additional Enhancements for the Non-response to the MLK RFP
Ms. Brooks explained staff was asked to come back with suggestions which could help
attract development to the MLK RFP. Staff would agree to reimburse the developer for
the balance of property the Community Redevelopment Agency does not own, which
was estimated at $2.29M, and agree to bond for infrastructure improvements for the
project, which was about $500,000 in value. She pointed out these cannot be done
because the Community Redevelopment Agency cannot bond at this time due to the
uncertain revenue trend.
Chair Rodriguez inquired why staff would make a recommendation they could not
undertake. Ms. Bright responded they wanted to ensure the Board that staff was
investigating what enhancements were there and acquisition was the only option
available. Staff was addressing the Board’s statements. Ms. Brooks explained the
impediment to development was staff did not own all the property and acquiring those
properties would be the largest obstacle for the developer. Ms. Bright clarified staff tried
to acquire individual properties so staff could square off the property and Mr. Finkelstein
indicated it was a package deal. Ms. Bright explained nothing could be done to
incentivize the property and buy the additional parcels to assemble enough acreage to
make a developer responsive to the RFP. The Board could bond, but they could not
bond today.
Staff’s recommendation was to consider reissuing the RFP in fiscal year 2012/2013
because nobody knows when the downward property value spiral would stop. Until the
revenue source stabilized, the Community Redevelopment Agency could not bond.
Motion
Mr. Hay moved to go with the above recommendation to consider adding the above
referenced option to RFP and reissue it during first quarter of Fiscal year 2012/2013 if
the required bond ratio could be met. Vice Chair Ross seconded the motion.
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Chair Rodriguez was uncomfortable approving something in 2012/2013 and thought it was
more appropriate to table it and have CRA staff bring it back during better times.
Motion
Mr. Holzman made a substitute motion to table it and have staff come back when they
see there was an option available whether it was this or something else for this.
Ms. Brooks explained 2012/2013 was the estimated time when they anticipate property
values would stop dropping. Since ad valorem funds are received after stabilization
occurred, they have to wait one year after diminishing rates stopped. She referenced a
newspaper article which indicated property values would continue to drop. They
predicted a continued drop for the following fiscal year. Banks were also only funding
loan to value ratios at 50%
Mr. Orlove seconded the substitute motion to table the item and have staff bring it back
at a more economically viable time. Mr. Hay pointed out there was a new Board coming
in next month and they could change it if they so desired.
Vote
There was a vote on the substitute motion which passed 4-1 (Mr. Hay dissenting.)
D. Discussion of Ocean Breeze East
Sister Lorraine
, Women’s Circle, 912 SE 4th Street, commented she and others have
been listening to the efforts of the CRA to develop the HOB. She looks at the south
side of town, specifically on 23rd coming west from Federal Highway. There were some
rentals in the area and she wished some developers could move those type of rentals
onto MLK. She heard about the Floribbean look. She saw them in Key West and she
indicated the project could really be a magnet. She pointed out the Community
Redevelopment Agency does not have to be a huge project and the Community
Redevelopment Agency did not have to own all of the property to do some of this in
their lifetime.
Victor Norfus
, 261 N. Palm Drive, agreed with tabling the previous item and was
opposed to locking the Community Redevelopment Agency into the project in
2012/2013.
James Brake
, 710 SW 27th Terrace, understood the idea of assembling all the lots to
have larger projects. He suggested building projects on smaller lots needed for land
banking, perhaps having second and third floors with retail, office and even residential.
He suggested using the land and putting something in place so they could have
something to build from instead of waiting for the larger projects.
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Vice Chair Ross returned at 8:42 p.m.
There was discussion that the original RFP indicated the developer would acquire the
property. They tried to do that.
Ms. Brooks explained on April 13th, the Board selected Auburn Development for the
development of the project. They presented a proposal which was forwarded to Legal
for review. Staff believes there were additional items that should be added to the
agreement to enhance its impact such as a timeline for actions on the part of Auburn.
The timeline would include:
The developer’s application for funding to the State;
?
The site plan approval;
?
Approval of all necessary funding and construction starts;
?
A clause that if the developer does not adhere to the timeline, they appear before
?
the Board, provide a reason and ask for an extension;
Mr. Holzman left the dais at 8:43 p.m.
A closing date for the land sale;
?
The closing be co-terminus with the closing of the construction loan, that they do
?
not transfer the land without some certainty that development will occur and that
the developer cannot sit on the land;
Submit a conceptual plan for approval and it be made a part of the Purchase and
?
Sale Agreement;
The conceptual plan be approved by the Board; and,
?
Due diligence be done.
?
There was discussion the market for funding was bad. The developer could do infill
housing but 84 units multi-story was different. Ms. Brooks was not dissatisfied with the
developer to find other sources of funding and pointed out they have a track record.
The developer was diligent and staff did not want the project to be floating out there
indefinitely.
Mr. Holzman returned to the dais at 8:46 p.m.
Mr. Hay explained the Board dealt with Auburn before and they were somewhat
misguided. At that time, the developer did not live up to their part of the deal and they
were dropped. He pointed out they were a good company but he wanted to ensure they
were doing due diligence. It was his understanding the developer was on track and
they were doing their part and staff was doing its part. Ms. Brooks explained Auburn
provided them with a purchase agreement and staff advised them the Board would
discuss it. It was up to the Board to set the standard for what they wanted. These were
not items that were unusual to ask for. The Purchase and Sale Agreement was a
standard land purchase agreement.
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Mr. Hay would like to accept the staff’s recommendation on those items.
Ms. Brooks explained she did not meet with them yet; rather she wanted to bring it to
the Board first. Attorney Cherof spoke with their Attorney who was Attorney Weiner and
discussed the items in staff’s memo. He posed questions about timelines and
deadlines. Attorney Weiner was unable to respond to them and agreed to consult with
his client and provide feedback. So far Attorney Cherof had not had a response. At this
point the agreement was a ghost agreement. They could only say that they are on time
for submitting a draft document to them, but the document could be so hollow there is
nothing to respond to. The timeline was contingent on the developer obtaining
financing.
Chair Rodriguez felt there should be some working relationship with them as they
moved through the process and he was concerned they have not had that dialogue. It
appeared to Attorney Cherof that Attorney Weiner was okay with the Community
Redevelopment Agency requesting the items, but needed direction from his client. All of
the requested information was needed, but as far as the timeline was concerned the
expectation of this Board was the issue, i.e. a closing next month, a year from now or
later. Chair Rodriguez inquired if staff had a recommendation for a timeline.
Ms. Brooks explained the developer would have to set that based on financing. Ms.
Brooks clarified she, Mike Simon and Ms. Bright met with them and the Housing
Authority collectively and attended a number of meetings. The timeline was driven by
the funding source. Staff was not asking the Board to develop those timelines, they
were being asked whether they wanted those types of terms in the agreement. The
agreement would come back to the Board. Staff was making their recommendations
about what should be included based on their experience.
Mr. Holzman clarified when they came before the Board and were selected, it was an
RFP to enter into negotiations into the purchase contract. It sounded like this was part
of the negotiation process and the Board should request all those items in the contract.
He suggested continuing negotiations and having them respond.
Motion
Mr. Hay moved to go with staff’s recommendation to add those items the Executive
Director had listed to the Purchase and Sale agreement and bring it back to the Board
for consideration with the time limit being October, 2010.
Ms. Brooks confirmed staff would bring back a purchase agreement with their wish list.
Mr. Orlove seconded the motion.
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Attorney Cherof suggested giving Auburn a 90-day deadline to return a real Purchase
and Sale agreement with all the items listed in Ms. Brook’s memo.
Mr. Hay offered a substitute motion as outlined by Attorney Cherof. Vice Chair Ross
seconded the motion. The motion passed.
E. Approval of Lease for 710 N. Federal Highway
Ms. Brooks received the proposed lease from Mr. D'Almeida for the Holiday House.
She listed the terms which were:
A10-year lease with a base rent at $15.80 per square foot;
?
Annual escalation of rent of 5% ;
?
During the first year, the CRA would be responsible for $1,893 a month
?
comprised of the taxes which are $22,000 per year. The taxes would increase
because the building would be improved;
Maintenance;
?
Insurance;
?
A security deposit of $6,500 due on execution of the lease ;
?
The CRA would be responsible for all interior renovations, landscaping, signage,
?
architectural fees for the interior at an estimated cost of $115K based on the
amount REG quoted for the cost and the difference between Mr. D'Almeida’s
estimate plus the signs and permit fees; and,
The CRA could not terminate the lease without being held liable for the rent and
?
expenses for the remainder of the lease.
The spreadsheet reflected the fees for the duration of the lease were $1,037,668.
Attorney Cherof reviewed the lease was a Landlord’s lease for commercial property; but
it needed to be modified as a governmental entity and it was a good starting point. His
comments were to bring it back in a form appropriate for government.
Art D'Almeida
, 105 E. Palmetto Park Road, Boca Raton, explained there were about
19 items and he was agreeable with most of them. Mr. D’Almeida took issue with the
fourth item regarding termination. Ms. Bright explained the item pertained to if the
agency was not funded by the City and County, they could not pay the balance of the
lease’s term. Mr. D’Almeida thought it would be reckless to spend that kind of money.
He advised he pretty much had the funding in place but he was unsure if the bank
would fund the renovation if the tenant left. Attorney Cherof explained the obligations of
the CRA would continue and be inherited by the City if the Community Redevelopment
Agency ceased to exist.
Attorney Cherof advised it was unusual to negotiate a lease in this manner, and he
agreed to contact Mr. D’Almeida to negotiate the terms.
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Mr. Hay suggested tabling the item and asking Legal, staff and the landlord to work out
the details. There was an upcoming City Commission meeting and they could address
it at a special meeting then.
Mr. Hay was in favor of the renovation, but he pointed out it cost almost double. Once
the property was renovated, the property tax value would increase. Mr. D'Almeida
advised he planned on appealing the tax assessment. If the taxes were lowered, it
would lower the rent.
Mr. Orlove inquired if a governmental body was responsible for paying real estate taxes,
maintenance and insurance. Attorney Cherof responded they were responsible for
some, and it was negotiable. Attorney Cherof reiterated the lease needed to be
modified. It was noted Mr. D'Almeida included a letter of intent.
Motion
Mr. Holzman moved to allow Legal and Mr. D'Almeida to come to an agreement on a final
lease and have that lease be presented to the Board at a special meeting next week. Mr.
Hay seconded the motion. The motion passed.
G. Discussion Regarding Disposition of 1002 MLK Blvd.
Mike Simon, Development Director, explained the CRA closed on the subject property,
known as the Robert’s building in February. The building was vacant and boarded,
antiquated, in disrepair, not up to Code, and in no condition to be leased by a tenant.
When the property was purchased in September 2009 and subsequent to the purchase,
there were several discussions held about combining the property with Jesus House of
Worship and another building for some type of mixed-use structure and incorporating a
business incubator.
Chair Rodriguez left the meeting at 9:16 p.m.
On June 30th, REG architects conducted a building evaluation assessment to provide
the Board with the information to bring the property up to Code should they decide to
lease the building. The second option was to demolish the structure and lay in wait for
future development. There was discussion regarding demolishing the building.
Chair Rodriguez returned to the meeting at 9:17 p.m.
Concerns were raised that many vacant lots became dumping grounds and it was at a
major intersection.
Mr. Simon explained the Board could obtain estimates for irrigation if there were
plantings. There was a cement wall on the Robert’s property, and he hesitated to
remove it because, while it would create depth, the properties were undesirable. He
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noted staff could offer the property as an opportunity to paint a wall mural or just
painting the wall.
Motion
Mr. Hay moved to select Option 2 with the option of staff coming back with beautification
options the Board could take a look at and select from. This included staff moving
forward and razing the building. Mr. Holzman seconded the motion. The motion
passed.
XIII. Executive Director’s Report:
None.
XIV. New Business:
A. Presentation of Construction Manager at Risk Contract Format by Kaufman Lynn,
General Contractors
Mr. Simon explained this item was an opportunity to have a premiere and successful
contractor make a presentation of Construction Manager at Risk Contract Format and
explained their affiliation was through a continuing contract with Kaufman Lynn, a
General Contractor from Boca Raton and RFQ and evaluation of the responses. They
were one of the three contractors on the Community Redevelopment Agency’s
continuing contractor’s list and they have an active contract. This format worked well for
the three projects they have which were the Ruth Jones Cottage, the Ocean Avenue
Amphitheater, and the Boynton Harbor Marina Entryway. These projects were
approaching the permit stage. Last Thursday, the site plans were submitted for the
Ruth Jones Cottage relocation. The amphitheater reached the bid document drawing
stage and would be a permitted project within the next 30 days. The Entryway project
at the marina was also reaching completion in its design and drawings would be
submitted, also for permit within the next 30 days or sooner. Staff could issue a hard bid
for the individual projects, issue a bid to the three contractors under continuing contract
or enlist the services of a single contractor who was an expert in the field and use them.
Mr. Simon wanted the contractors to make a presentation. It was explained the
contractor assisted staff with all three projects with budgeting, value engineering
preconstruction services, and what the projects would entail construction-wise. They
offered suggestions how to save money on ways to construct the project. Mr. Simon felt
since staff was close to the building phase, it was an opportunity to receive direction
from the Board whether this option made sense or whether the Board wanted staff to
issue an RFP or hard bid.
Mike Simon explained with the Ruth Jones Cottage, staff was given direction to move
forward with the project, which included two phases. One phase was to move the
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structure to a location and solicit a tenant. The major obstacle with the second phase
was a potential tenant could not move in right away. Phase II is to redevelop the
cottage.
Mr. Hay left the dais at 9:30 p.m.
The Cottage would be moved to a vacant parking lot, and it provided an opportunity to
entice a builder to the area. The building would alert the community that development
was occurring on the Avenue. If a person wanted to open a restaurant but had to wait a
year because it was not ready to go, it lost its attractiveness as a potential site. It was
noted at this time, staff was not making interior renovations.
Mr. Hay returned to the dais at 9:32 p.m.
Chair Rodriguez was in favor of moving the building but delaying the interior and
exterior renovations until a tenant was obtained. Mr. Simon explained the parking lot for
the structure could not accommodate the building without it being improved. The
structure would be placed on a stem wall, fastened to the ground and have rough
plumbing and landscaping. The building was small and staff was working on potential
designs.
Ms. Brooks explained there were asbestos tiles on the exterior of the building. The
building was very small, and for the type of deal that would be made, staff would give
them the plans designed by REG and they were okay with the exterior. The work was
basically the landscaping, the covered deck and the handicap ramp required by Code.
There would be basic electric and plumbing. Build-out referred to the interior and not
the exterior. Chair Rodriguez thought making any improvements may dissuade
interested parties.
The presentation was how to engage a contractor in building the projects. If the Board
accepted the methodology, the projects would have to be approved for bidding. The
other firms under continuing contract were Hedrick Brothers and Burkhardt
Construction. Burkhardt specialized in road construction. Hedricks Brothers handled
retail/commercial and large-scale businesses.
Kaufman Lynn was the Community Redevelopment Agency’s continuing contractor
selected by the Board due to their expertise in municipal building. They were selected
over other general contractors in the original bids due to their expertise in CM at Risk.
They constructed the Boca Raton Amphitheater. The Board’s other options were to
select them, go to go hard bid, or have Hedrick Brothers and Kaufman Lynn make
presentations. Mr. Simon’s goal was to present the CM at Risk’s format. If the Board
did not like the format, staff would issue an RFP. Chair Rodriguez felt in the interest of
transparency, any other firm not on the qualified list should make the same presentation
to them. Chair Rodriguez explained the process was a well known process within the
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building industry but he was uncomfortable hearing the presentation without the others
on the qualified list present.
Kaufman Lynn was vetted through a Request for Proposal in 2006. The Board renewed
their services for a second term as a continuing contractor. The RFP process was
complete. They were going to present the process for their company.
Attorney Cherof suggested rather than having a presentation on a specific contract, the
Board use the expertise of Kaufman to explain the difference between the CM at Risk
Contracting format versus the traditional contract the Board normally would see. Mr.
Simon clarified that was what he intended the presentation to be. Chair Rodriguez
explained on the City level, he requested the City do the same.
Vice Chair Ross requested Mr. Kaufman speak. Mr. Hay and Mr. Orlove agreed to hear
from Mr. Kaufman on that item only.
CM at Risk was a contract delivery method adopted 15 to 20 years ago by the State
Division of Management Services for agencies. It was then adopted by state
universities, colleges, municipalities, schools and taxing agencies.
Mr. Lynn explained there were issues occurring with the older methods such as the hard
bid or design-bid build, where the agency would hire the architect and engineers and on
a separate contract have contractors bid and hire the low bidders, thus creating
animosity between contractors and the architects and engineers. There was a lot of
litigation and options for protest on the bids with the methodology and it slowed the
project down dramatically. When projects were put forth using the system, most went
over budget and beyond the completion date. It was not an effective method for the
delivery for many projects.
With the design-build process, the agency primarily hired an architect to speed the
project along. This process was used extensively. The agency lost a lot of transparency
and control over the design and it was more costly, but it got done more quickly. The
CM at Risk method was decided on because it was a marriage of all the positive
benefits of both of those systems. It afforded complete transparency of the numbers,
the contractor must report who when and why someone was paid, the management
cost and the profit on the job, but the agency still retained the ability to hold the
contractor accountable. It created a teaming effort with the contracting agency, the
architect and contractor at the same time. It avoided litigation, promoted the
construction process, brought in construction experts and enhanced the durability of
projects they warrantied after they were completed during the design phase.
Mr. Kaufman reviewed a PowerPoint presentation attached to the original set of minutes
on file in the Clerk’s Office.
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Attorney Cherof advised the process was not unknown to Boynton Beach. The process
was used in the Community Redevelopment Agency area known as the Pond B project,
in the pavilion area. The ponds were dug under the CM at Risk program.
Chair Rodriguez was a proponent of it and wanted the City and Community
Redevelopment Agency to use the methodology. He commented one option that was
missing was having the other two other firms under continuing contract engaged in the
project. He was unsure how to proceed or if they should request all three firms make a
presentation using the methodology.
Mr. Orlove suggested in Option 3, directing staff to move forward with an RFP and only
look at those companies using the methodology. Ms. Bright clarified Burkhardt
Construction handled road contracts and they would not use this process. She agreed
staff could have a conversation with Hedrick Brothers and they could come forward.
Mr. Orlove did not want to tie the Board down to a particular method. Mr. Simon agreed
there may be a smaller project that the bidding process would be better suited for. The
price point where the CM at Risk methodology would be helpful was in the $300K to
$700K range, depending on the complexity of the project and depending when the
construction contractor was engaged. With the CM at Risk process, there was no hard
bid or cost component included in the presentation or part of the selection process. Mr.
Kaufman did not endorse the methodology for all projects regardless of the price point.
It would not be suitable for smaller projects or projects that did not require the expertise
of a CM at Risk manager to bid competitively. It made more sense to use the format on
a project-by-project basis. It would not make sense to use it with a single-source
provider for roadways, landscaping, or curbs and gutters. It would be beneficial on
building construction or renovation projects.
Mr. Holzman questioned what action was being requested. There was a question about
what the project scope would be. Mr. Simon explained the advantage of deciding
whether the Board liked the format or not was it established the need of whether to use
the hard bid, 60-to-90 day method or not. It provided direction to staff.
The budgeted amounts associated with the projects were provided by Ms. Harris as
follows:
Ruth Jones Cottage Relocation - $225,000 and Magnusun House Commercial
?
Use - $249,375
Amphitheater - $200,000
?
The Ocean Avenue Marina Entryway Feature - $200,000
?
Mr. Simon explained the Marina would have a cost advantage. The complexity and
detail was a consideration of the dollar amount of it. A smaller project with a lot of detail
would also receive an advantage under the methodology. When viewed as individual
projects with an overall CM at Risk Contractor management format, they would receive
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the best pricing and cost advantage when bidding the projects at a simultaneous
management level with CM at Risk, and with the potential subcontractors.
CM at Risk hard bid the subcontractors. The numbers provided to the Board by Ms.
Harris were the figures staff would include as an incentive offered to general tenant
populations. The amount set aside for a project could be used as business incentives,
build-out, free rent or other incentives.
Motion
Mr. Holzman moved to approve Option 3 opening the RFP process with the CM at Risk
to all vendors. Mr. Hay seconded the motion.
This opened the opportunity to bid to all general contractors to use the methodology.
The motion passed.
Chair Rodriguez inquired about the Marina and the area where photographs were taken
of fishermen and their catch. He advised he was contacted by Gino Pryatt, a tenant at
the Marina who had the original Fish-Hook Display sign. Mr. Simon explained he was
also contacted; however, the sign was specific to Mr. Pryatt’s business. It also did not
meet the design standards. Mr. Simon would take a photograph of the sign, determine
where it could go, obtain the dimensions and bring his findings back to the Board for
further direction. He advised when interacting with the Marina tenants, staff was more
comfortable with the Board determining what would go up on the Marina.
On a different matter, Mr. Hay commented now that one of the top ten applicants for the
independent Community Redevelopment Agency Board dropped out, they should move
to the next applicant. Chair Rodriguez commented he would consult with Attorney
Cherof about the process and discuss it at the City Commission meeting.
XV.Future Agenda Items:
A.Analysis of Local Businesses at CRA Events
B.Downtown Interactive Google Map First Year Analytics
C.Small Business Incubator Concept Project at MLK & Seacrest
D.Marina Signage Entryway Feature at Boynton Beach Blvd. & Federal Hwy.
E. Results of RFP for Boynton Harbor Marina Fuel Dock Reconstruction Project
F.Purchase & Development Agreement between the CRA and Habitat for
Humanity
27
Meeting Minutes
Community Redevelopment Agency
Boynton Beach, FL August 10, 2010
G.Analysis of 500 East Ocean Improvement Concept Plan
XVI.Adjournment
There being no further business to discuss, the meeting properly adjourned at 10:12
p.m.
Catherine Cherry
Recording Secretary
28
Meeting Minutes
Community Redevelopment Agency
Boynton Beach, FL
August 10, 2010
G. Analysis of 500 East Ocean Improvement Concept Plan
XVI. Adjournment
There being no further business to discuss, the meeting properly adjourned at 10: 12
p.m.
(It-tlwLi1lL (lituuJ__
Catherine Cherry if
Recording Secretary
28