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Minutes 04-09-13 MINUTES OF THE COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY BOARD MEETING, HELD ON WEDNESDAY, APRIL 9, 2013, AT 6:30 PM IN COMMISSION CHAMBER 100 E. BOYNTON BEACH BLVD. BOYNTON BEACH, FL PRESENT: Jerry Taylor, Chair Vivian Brooks, Executive Director Woodrow Hay, Vice Chair James Cherof, Board Counsel James "Buck" Buchanan Joe Casello (Arrived 6:56 p.m.) Michael Fitzpatrick Mark Karageorge David Merker 1. Call to Order Chair Taylor called the meeting to order at 6:31 p.m. II. Invocation and Pledge to the Flag The invocation was given by Mr. Karageorge, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag. III. Roll Call The Recording Secretary called the roll. A quorum was present. IV. Legal: None V. Agenda Approval: A. Additions, Deletions, Corrections to the Agenda None. B. Adoption of Agenda Motion Mr. Karageorge moved to approve the agenda. Vice Chair Hay seconded the motion that unanimously passed. 1 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, FL April 9, 2013 VI. Informational Items and Disclosures by Board Members and CRA Staff: A. Disclosure of Conflicts, Contacts and Relationships for Items Presented to the CRA Board on Agenda Items B. Informational Announcements Mr. Karageorge welcomed the new members and advised he left information, at each seat, for the benefit of the new members, informing them of his background. He announced he attended the Sister Cities art display at the Boynton Beach Mall where works from students from Boynton Beach and Qufu, China were displayed. He attended the Movies on the Avenue event and Sunday in the Park, both of which were great. He announced Hands around Boynton was having an event at the amphitheater on April 26 and the morning of April 27th, followed by the Fire Department Chili Cook -off and Fishing Tournament. May 16th is the Taste of Boynton event chaired by Mr. Buchanan at Indian Springs Country Club. He encouraged all to attend. He also announced Boynton Beach resident Colleen Brenner sang the National Anthem for the Marlin's home game opener and again more recently. Mr. Fitzpatrick inquired about contact disclosures. Ms. Brooks explained it was for the purpose of transparency. Mr. Fitzpatrick commented his son attended 5th through 12th grade with a fellow student whose sister owns the Dive shop. Ms. Brooks explained no action would be taken on the Harbor Marina Master Redevelopment Project. There were new Board members and the items were included on the agenda to bring them up to speed. Vice Chair Hay attended the Pathways to Prosperity (P2P) Car Seat Giveaway event on Saturday and over 80 seats were given away to qualified individuals. The demand was greater than the supply and extra car seats were ordered. He also attended and participated in a service recognizing Holocaust Survivors at Temple Beth Kodesh. He acknowledged his blue wristband distributed by an organization raising awareness of child abuse. He explained too many children were being abused and he wanted to be a part of the effort to stop it. Mr. Buchanan explained he initiated the disclosure request item because at one time, items were pushed by Board members and the public perception was the items were pushed for personal and political reasons. He also commented the Taste of Boynton event, in addition to having 16 or 17 restaurants participating, would also have a wine tasting component hosted by the Wine Cellar. The Red Hot Blues Cruise will take place in downtown Boynton Beach on April 20th. It is a free event, and there will be a Hot Pepper Eating Contest. Blues will be presented by top is clubs such as BB Kings, the Backyard, Boston's on the Beach and Two Georges. A Car Show is part of the event and trophies will be given away. The Children's Museum would also have events for youth. All were invited to attend. 2 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, FL April 9, 2013 Chair Taylor disclosed he met with the owner of the property located at 222 N. Federal Highway on three occasions during his campaign encouraging development of the property. He reminded the members of the Chamber luncheon the next day at Indian Springs Country Club. He met with the Homeowners at Marina Village the night before and they were interested in what was occurring in the downtown. He attended the Sister Cities Artists and Authors Award Ceremony at the Mall and was impressed with their thoughts and ideas. He attended Sunday in the Park and there were at least 70 individuals in attendance. It is a free event. Chair Taylor commented an individual tried to rob the TD Bank, was apprehended by the Police and was in custody of the FBI. He also read a letter from Leisureville residents expressing their gratitude and praise to the Police Department regarding an incident where a woman went from door to door advising she was from Comcast identifying Comcast equipment remaining to be removed. A neighbor noted the suspicious behavior and alerted the police. The woman attempted to leave; however, the police prevented it and found that in addition to discrepancies with the vehicle registration, she had taken jewelry from the second residence visited. Lastly, the Palm Beach League of Cities was holding an Elected Official Workshop. He planned to attend and encouraged others to do so as they cover great topics. VII. Announcements & Awards: A. Ocean Ave. Concert — 4/19/13 Kathy Biscuiti, Special Events Director, announced the concert to be held at the Ocean Avenue Amphitheater from 7 to 9 p.m. Orange Sunshine will perform hits from the 60s and 70s. They have been playing at the Seminole Hard Rock Casino nearly every weekend and are a very popular band. She noted the concert will take place the night before the Red Hot Blues. Cruise. Food and drinks would be available from the food truck and The Little House. Attendees were encouraged to bring blankets and chairs. B. Movies on the Ave. — 5/3/13 Skyfall, the last movie of the season, would be aired at 8 p.m. Food and drinks would be available from the food truck and The Little House. Attendees were encouraged to bring blankets and chairs. C. Sunday in the Park 5/5/13 This concert was also the last event in the Season. Spencer Allen Patrick Trio, the winner of Open Mic Night at. the Art District, would be performing contemporary folk music from 12 to 3 p.m. Attendees were encouraged to bring blankets and chairs. 3 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, FL April 9, 2013 VIII. Consent Agenda: A. Approval of Minutes — CRA Special Board Meeting, March 5, 2013 This item was pulled by Mr. Karageorge. B. Approval of Minutes — CRA Board Meeting, March 13, 2013 C. Approval of Period Ended March 31, 2013 Financial Report D. Monthly Purchase Orders E. Approval of Commercial Fagade Grant to Colonial Gateway Veterinary Services, Inc. F. Approval of Interior Build -Out Grant to Colonial Gateway Veterinary Services, Inc. Motion Mr. Merker moved to approve the agenda as amended. Vice Chair Hay seconded the motion that unanimously passed. IX. Pulled Consent Agenda Items: A. Approval of Minutes — CRA Special Board Meeting, March 5, 2013 Mr. Karageorge made the following change to page 2, the first paragraph: "A special thanks was offered to Jonathan Porges, Jim Williams, Nancy Hogan, Bradley Miller, Brian Miller and Enid Silberstein . Motion Mr. Karageorge moved to approve the amendment. Vice Chair Hay seconded the motion that unanimously passed. X. Information Only: A. Public Comment Log B. Media Outreach and Editorial Coverage C. Update on Phone Calls to CRA Businesses Re: CRA Web /Phone App 4 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, FL April 9, 2013 This item was pulled by Mr. Karageorge. He complimented staff on the application. The feed back on it was tremendous. It was -user friendly for consumers and business owners, and was an added plus for the Community Redevelopment Agency. D. 2012 Annual Report Mr. Karageorge again commended staff on the Report. Vice Chair Hay noted it contained more information than was legally required and it was informative and easy to understand. E. Special Events Recap I. Public Comments: (Note: comments are limited to 3 minutes in duration) Chair Taylor opened the Public Comments. James .Lynch, 610 Horizons East, Apt 311, commented on the Consideration of Responses to the RFP regarding the 222 N. Federal Highway item and was upset they were not made aware of high -rise buildings planned for the district. He expressed his belief the Board was aware of the matter and decided to address it when residents from the condominium association were leaving to go home. He also was aware of the tax exempt status the CRA has and how generous they were with it. He commented there are four empty buildings that receive a 50% tax break while every year for the last 12 years, every fee and tax was raised. He inquired why the public does not know about these matters until the last minute. He did not want tall buildings being constructed and he noted Las Ventanas has only one restaurant. He opined there was nothing in the downtown that the people can be proud of. (Mr. Casello arrived.) Chair Taylor explained the item was coming to the Board for the first time. It was not last minute and many more meetings would be held on it. He .clarified two restaurants were at Las Ventanas and they were trying to attract restaurants and nightlife to the downtown. David Dennis, 1314 S. Seacrest Boulevard,read a letter from Boynton United regarding funding for their one -year anniversary event the entire City could be proud of called Hands Around Boynton. He noted all Boynton United events were paid for by contributions and in -kind donations. The Hands Around Boynton event was 100% within the CRA District and it met the guidelines for funding. They have been requesting assistance for months, but have not received any while the Board has funded other events with no proven track record. It was thought their attempts to secure funds may be because of .lack of knowledge of procedures. So far, they have raised $2,500 and their largest expenses are the fees the City requires. He requested $5,000 from the CRA to offset City fees that total $3,006. Boynton United has worked harmoniously with 5 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, FL April 9, 2013 the CRA, City, Chamber of Commerce and the community and would continue to have a strong level of commitment, Mr. Dennis distributed the budget to the members. It was recommended Mr. Dennis contact the Executive Director to explain the steps to obtain funding and to contact the City Manager to obtain City funding. Mr. Dennis explained they met with two individuals unsuccessfully. The event was approaching and they did not know what to do. Ms. Brooks explained they had met and she requested they bring information to the Board since it had to be approved by the Board. She had not received anything and needed it two weeks prior to the meeting. When they met, the Board had just approved an application process which is online. Mr. Dennis noted they had been asking before the policy was instituted. Ms. Brooks explained she cannot approve it. He should get the information to staff, and they forward it to the Board and make that decision. On a different matter, Chair Taylor expressed there are youngsters who were foolish early on in their lives that committed felonies. He was aware of such an individual who, even though he did the time, studied hard so when he was released, he could make something of his life. He has a wife and two children he was trying to support. After release, it is difficult to find employment and often there is no way to have a career. Many people fall into that category, and if they cannot find employment, they go back to a life of crime and a cycle is created. He inquired if Boynton United would consider creating a panel composed of perhaps a City official, Chamber of Commerce executive, a religious official and business official, with good standing in the community, to create a Board. Individuals determined to turn their lives around would go before the Board and be interviewed. Those the Board deemed to be sincere would receive a letter to take to a prospective employer,. Ray Whitely agreed to meet and discuss it further as well as other ideas. Mr. Dennis explained there was much work to do. He has a passion for the City and was glad to work with the CRA and City to make a difference. They appreciated what had been done in the past. Charles Gaulkin, 8 Colonial Club Drive, reiterated Mr. Lynch's sentiments about taking up the Federal Highway land issue without communicating it to the public. He noted the CRA recently held a meeting with the public about having more communication and input from its residents. He thought there was now a high -rise fixation in the City which many individuals did not share and that rather than issuing a report to glorify the CRA, they should communicate this project to the public via the media. Mr. Merker explained this was his first meeting and the item was a proposal that would be discussed in the near future. There was an individual in attendance to make a presentation so he would be hearing it for the first time too. 6 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, FL April 9, 2013 It was. clarified for Mr. Gaulkin that there was public information provided when they issued the Request for Proposals. The purpose of this meeting is to direct staff on whether to proceed with it or not. If it is moved forward, it will go to the Planning and Zoning Board, which will have a public hearing on it and then to the City Commission who will have public hearings on it Jolynn Slebodnik, 760 East Ocean Avenue, Coastal Towers, inquired what had happened to the Boynton GALA. Chair Taylor explained the Chamber used to hold it, then the City that financially was unable to support it. She also commented she is a dog lover who moved from Marina Village to the Coastal Towers who does a great job at clean -up. She thought Costa Cosa should do a better job at keeping their property clean and would like the developers to take some civic responsibility. As to the GALA, it was explained the Red Hot Blues Cruise might be the beginning of the new GALA. Bill Kitts, 3069 Waterside Circle, Boynton Beach, a seasonal resident commented he eats at the Marina three times the day and since its redevelopment had to use valet parking as there was no parking. He commented there are only two eateries at the Marina and nothing else there for the visitors. He was aware individuals from Delray have made proposals to pick up passengers or run a water taxi, but those proposals did not move forward. He has been here nine winters and urged the Board to think twice about pushing so hard to attract people to the Marina because there was no where to go,, there was no parking and it was not fair to the little businesses struggling down the street. He did urge the Board to keep doing what it needed to do to keep Boynton beautiful. Chair Taylor explained there were over 100 parking spots in the garage and staff would review the signage. He also was aware there is free parking by Banana Boat, but it fills up quickly. The proposal to build on the Bank of America lot included 430 public parking spaces and staff was reviewing parking in the downtown. There was also public parking at Marina Village and the Promenade. Ken Hall, SE 3rd Avenue, inquired when the item was heard, whether the Board would carry it forward or table it to allow information to be distributed to the community. Chair Taylor responded it would likely be discussed to give staff direction which way they want it to go. It was put on the agenda to discuss it. .Audrey Gerger, 331 NW 1st Avenue, praised some of the members and commented she was impressed so far with what the Community Redevelopment Agency was doing. She inquired how City Commissioners could serve as a Community Redevelopment Agency Board member. Chair Taylor explained it was designed for the City Commission and two appointed citizens.to serve on the Board. She commented Chair Taylor shows property all the time and she inquired if he was a realtor. Chair Taylor explained he has taken individuals around the City showing them vacant CRA properties that could be developed. She inquired if that was legal. 7 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, FL April 9, 2013 Attorney Cherof responded it was since the CRA owns property and they .are free to deal directly with their own property. He was promoting the downtown, not selling the land. Additionally, one purpose of being a City Commissioner or Board member is to hear what a developer or a business owner has to say. A Familiarization Tour took place in January or February for commercial realtors to make them aware of what was in the district. They also had a Familiarization Tour for restaurant editors that showcased restaurants and bars which was also successful. It was important to bring business to the downtown area as it helps the tax base and creates jobs. If a business owner or developer is interested in a parcel they have seen, they are directed to staff. It was noted Sunshine Square had many new businesses move there within the last four months and they are adding businesses and jabs every day. Ms. Gerger commented she also would like to see the GALA return in its original form. Jim Knight, 10 SE First Avenue, clarified the discussion about showing real estate and explained if one is compensated for showing property, it would be illegal, but Chair Taylor does not receive compensation. Mr. Knight is a commercial real estate broker who has worked with several members of the Board. He noted there were areas in the City, one of which housed a strip club that was redeveloped. Individuals that were opposed to the redevelopment initially, were now pleased with the results. No one else coming forward, Chair Taylor closed the public Comments. XII. Public Hearing: None XII. Old Business: A. Update on the 2013 International Kinetic Art Exhibit and Symposium Ms. Brooks explained the Community Redevelopment Agency sponsored this event for $31,000. She explained this Exhibit and Symposium was unlike any other event in the country. It is totally unique to Boynton and it attracts people to the area. Staff spoke with several business owners who said the type of individuals who attended the event were different than those who normally attend events. These individuals spent money and ate at the restaurants, so staff felt they obtained the best use of the funds and helped the new brand image. She believed it would become a signature event for the City and commented the Red Hot Blues Cruise could also become a signature event. Debby Coles - Dobay, Public Art Administrator, agreed with Ms. Brooks' comments and showed a brief video summarizing the event. She thanked the Community Redevelopment Agency Board, City Commission, staff and Arts Commission members. This event was the first in the nation and she hoped to build on the groundwork that was laid. The event received a lot of attention on the local, state, national and international level. 8 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, FL April 9, 2013 Chair Taylor expressed the Board's appreciation to her and all involved in putting the event together. Ms. Coles -Dobay commented the sponsors were all thanked for their support and they are interested in participating again. The Arts Commission was identifying more sponsors for the 2015 event. B. Consideration of Responses to RFP for the Property Located at 222 N. Federal Highway Ms. Brooks explained the RFP was issued over 30 days ago for land the CRA purchased in 2006 to create the Boynton Beach Boulevard Extension. The extension ultimately did not go through. The subject property was less than half an acre and because of its size, cannot be rezoned to mixed -use high which is allowable under the land use and zoning Codes. The Code does allow property that is one acre in the downtown area to be rezoned to mixed -use high and cover almost the entire site. This conforms to City Code, the adopted Master Plan, the Federal Highway Corridor Plan, and the Downtown Master Plan, adopted in 2008 through a public process. It is not slipped under the radar. The height and density were well publicized and two buildings were constructed under this section of the Code, which were the Promenade, now Casa Costa, and Marina Village. Staff received one proposal to the RFP from the adjacent property owner, One Boynton LLC. The essential element in the RFP was consistency with the Downtown Master Plan. The adjacent site was the former Bank of America site at Ocean Avenue and Federal Highway and the developer wanted to create a site that included a Class A office building, which the City never had in the downtown area, for a law firm that would bring 200 professional jobs to the downtown area. If restaurants are wanted in the downtown, then jobs are needed. Other elements in the plan were to include two residential towers and a hotel. The original 1983 CRA plan called for a hotel in the marina area, which was ambitious at that time. As the area is redeveloped and more business and residents are attracted, a flagship hotel could become a reality. Owen Duke, the developer, suggested the subject property be combined with their site and then the site developed according to the Master Plan and zoning. The goal is to bring jobs, and people to the downtown and encourage growth in the Harbor District. There is a law firm interested in moving into the area, so they designed a plaza that would have an office building in the center, flanked by two residential towers. A hotel would be the final component. The plaza was designed with open space for the public to walk through. The tax bill on the site is $28,000 per year and with the site fully developed, the taxes would be $590,000 per year. The permits alone to build the structure total $3.5 million, in addition to the jobs it would create. Their plan conformed to the zoning Code and City's plan. 9 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, FL April 9, 2013 Jim Williams, 70700 Congress, Boca Raton, explained they took the site through a site plan approval process seven years ago. The current site is slightly smaller and the land owned by the CRA is so narrow, it is impossible to build on. There is a wide sidewalk with areas for restaurants and dining, and a smaller public plaza on the corner of Ocean with a fountain. The building heights were varied and designed to be under the existing zoning. Parking is dispersed among the phases and there is dedicated public parking. During off employment hours, all parking would be available for special events. The styles of the buildings are meant to compliment the Marina. They reviewed some of the older studies for development of the area and the buildings graduate from a low rise building and then step up to 150 feet towards the residential buildings behind the office. There would be a screened parking deck around the exterior of the site and parking would not be visible from any public thoroughfare. Retail would activate the space at the base. Mr. Williams noted there was the potential for future rail traffic which would foster development of the area as commuters could walk in the shade to the station. It would be pedestrian friendly and fit in with the "green" goals of the City. A commercial realtor was also working on securing potential tenants for the sites. The project was a six -year process. The first step would be to accommodate the law firm creating 200 jobs. There would be less than 450 total residential units. The hotel is the final piece., Permanent jobs would be created as well as temporary jobs during construction of the project. It. was acknowledged residents don't want. mammoth buildings. Public parking, green spaces and public art were all incorporated into the project's design. Mr. Buchanan .clarified the issue involves a sliver of land. Years ago, it was decided the height in the downtown area could be 15 stories. He noted there are 15 story buildings in the area now, but it would not have been his preference. The proposed project was significantly lower and the project could legally be constructed as it conforms to the Code. If the CRA opts not to convey their land to the developer, the developer could .still construct their project and the CRA would have a useless piece of property on the side of the building that will never have any value. This development significantly contributes to job creation and the development of the downtown and denying the project could have serious legal implications. The issue was conveying CRA land would not stop tall buildings from being constructed on the property. The CRA could get a better project if it conveyed the property to the developer. Mr.. Merker noted he received calls earlier in the day about the project and the citizens wanted piece of mind whether anything could realistically be constructed on the property. 10 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, FL April 9, 2013 Ms. Brooks explained the property was less than 21,000 square feet. It could only be zoned Central Business District. She also pointed out the Federal Highway Corridor Plan encourages assembly of property for developments such as this. The developer could develop his property corner to corner and have one massive building as the Code permits it, but their proposal is much more palatable and attractive on the street level. Vice Chair Hay noted they were hoping for a project of this type for a long time and they would be hard - pressed to stop one. He thought the structure and layering of the project was beautiful and the project would be a jump start for more worthy projects to come. With a commuter rail and the impact that would have on the City, it was time to stop thinking small and start thinking outside the box. He reminded all the Code permits the development and he liked the way it was laid out. The promotion and branding was starting to be heard. The Business Development Board and developers were taking a second look at Boynton Beach. Mr. Casello inquired if the office building was expandable. Mr. Duke explained they were building a little more than they needed and they would warehouse the space they did not need. It will include a multi -story garage. It is not being designed to add a wing at a later time. It is planned for 50 thousand square feet and they may need 40 thousand square feet. If successful and all the space is used, more jobs would be created to support surrounding businesses. Mr. Williams noted additional office space was proposed in the third phase. Mr. Fitzpatrick commented he was surprised this item was being heard under Old Business, when it seemed like New Business. He was concerned with the quality of life for his constituents and pointed out many of them were living on fixed incomes. He commented utilities and safety services cost the same from West Palm Beach to Miami and the costs were increasing. The choices were residents can accept a decrease in services and keep taxes the same, increase the taxes to keep up with the cost of maintaining services or find someone else to pay for the increase in service cost. He favored the latter. This development could help maintain the cost of services they have in their communities. He had two additional questions regarding with sea level, which he commented has already increased eight inches. He noted when Hurricane Sandy was 100 miles offshore, saltwater crested over the road 50 yards from the property. He thought the CRA may need to make a greater effort to address that issue. He also expressed high density should be balanced out with zero density. He noted six to eight years ago an ordinance required for every 1,000 new residents, a developer had to hold aside six acres of green space. He would like to see that brought back. He was unsure how it would be calculated, but there should be some compensation to help maintain the quality of life for residents. 11 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, FL April 9, 2013 Further discussion followed the Master Plan that included citizen input, required Class A Office Space which the District did not have. When interested individuals look in Boynton for Class A Office Space, they scratch Boynton off their list. Other parcels could accommodate Class A office space, and he agreed this project could be a catalyst. Mike Simon, Development Director, explained he thought it would be a good opportunity to expound on the RFP process and the RFP was what was being evaluated. First, the CRA owned a piece of property purchased 10 years ago to further the advancement of a downtown, and a portion of the property was used to accommodate the Boynton Beach Boulevard Extension. Another portion of the property was taken for public sidewalks and planters to produce an entrance into the Marina area and make way for the residential units, the retail, the parking, the townhouses and the fuel dock. What they are left with was property that, by itself, was not large enough to be developed on its own in the overall redevelopment of the downtown as suggested by the Downtown Master Plan and Federal Highway Corridor plans. The developer's site was an active site that had a bank on it, but the bank left and the land was now vacant. It was a large parcel that could be developed in many ways and a request was to combine the properties. The reason the RFP was Old Business is when an RFP comes before the Board for release, it is New Business. After the deadline is met, responses return to the Board as Old Business. The intent of the RFP was to solicit proposals by individuals that might have a use for the property under the zoning for the site and the surrounding sites. It is very normal for adjacent property owners to be a respondent to an RFP. Initially, Boynton Beach found itself in the running to recruit a very large employer with a large stake of investment who was looking to advance and grow their business. Out of that interest and becoming part of a process to compete with other communities, the Board released an RFP to solicit any and all ideas. The Board's job was to review the proposals submitted to acquire the property for a future use, not to judge the project for its merit as a Development Board, the City Commission, Planning Board, or anything else. The decision 'to be made was did the response meet the criteria of the RFP, is their vision for acquisition of the property in line with the Board's plans and visions and if so, they can select or reject the proposal submitted. This agenda item was not the project or to approve the developer's vision. It is their interest in acquiring the CRA's property for their use. in a larger -scale project. Mr. Simon explained sometimes remaining pieces of land that are not acquired for larger projects wind up being less valuable to the community. The item to be decided was not the project, only whether to allow the land to be combined. Chair Taylor opened the Public Comment. 12 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, FL. April 9, 2013 Ken Hall appreciated the clarification and inquired about the square feet of the site at 222 S. Federal Highway. Ms. Brooks responded it was about half an acre. He commented the subject property was the jewel of Boynton Beach and the City was talking about a downtown for 30 years. He did not like the 15 -story buildings and noted there were some already there with businesses underneath that were not completely occupied. He thought the CRA should buy the property for the City and the City develop the property in a way the residents and Commission would like to have it developed, which would be five or six stories high. The first story would be restaurants, shops and commercial business. The second story would be parking, and the third story would be a new City Hall because more room was needed. The fourth, fifth and maybe sixth story would be residential and business condominiums with a portion of them as hotel rooms. He thought in this manner, the City would own the property and develop it themselves. Sondra Herbert, 7110 Brunswick Circle, inquired whether the land will be purchased. Chair Taylor responded the CRA would give them the land and in return, receive a lot of other items, one of which was over 400 public parking spots. David Dennis, 1314 S. Seacrest Boulevard, liked the project. He has lived in Boynton Beach since 1978 and for years, looked at the old Gulfstream parcel. Now, because of the efforts of the City, what is there is beautiful. The proposal has a lot of positive attributes and wanted to voice his support. Chair Taylor closed the public comment and explained he has been trying to develop the downtown for over 10 years and this is an opportunity to make it happen. He noted the process to develop the project would take six years and he would prefer it be developed in half that time. He commented the recommendation was the Board direct staff and legal to draft a conveyance document that would include a clawback provision. Motion Mr. Buchanan so moved. Mr. Karageorge seconded the motion that unanimously passed. Attorney Cherof commented the motion included the claw -back provision, but the Executive Director, had a list of other conditions of conveyance she would like to see, such as job creation, which should be added. He commented the document would return to the Board for approval. (Mr. Merker left the dais at 8:21 p.m.) C. Status Report of CRA Budget -FY 2012 -2013 Mr. Fitzpatrick inquired about the debt service. Susan Harris, Finance Director, explained the debt service was $2.5 million a year and they took advantage of low 3 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, FL April 9, 2013 interest rates and reduced the interest to 2.56 %. The debt service was now $2.3 million per year realizing a savings over $2.6 million in interest on the life of the remaining bonds. The first bond was issued in 2004 and was used to build the Boynton Beach Boulevard Extension at a cost of $10 million and the Promenade Walkway. They purchased the Marina for $6.4 million and made property purchases for land assemblage in MLK and Heart of Boynton (HOB) in accordance with the HOB plan. The second bond was issued in 2005 and they purchased the Ocean Breeze property. The west side of it was developed and has 21 affordable housing units constructed by Habitat for Humanity and the Boynton Beach Faith Based Community Development Corporation. The Agency also purchased property with that and offered First -Time Homebuyer assistance to enhance affordable housing and economic development. D. Update on Boynton Harbor Marina Master Redevelopment Project There were no comments on this item. E. Update on Ocean Breeze West Project There were no comments on this item. (Mr. Merker returned to the dais at 8:23 p.m.) F. Update on Public Parking Lot Project Mr. Fitzpatrick asked how many parking spaces the project would have. Mr. Simon explained it was currently designed for 58 to 60 parking. stalls depending on the tree canopy. They opted to keep two of the larger caliper trees at a cost of two parking spaces and over landscaped the site to make it a signature parking lot. It was noted the parking lot was an interim measure as it could be redeveloped into a building down the road,. (Mr. Merker left the dais at 8:24 p.m.) G. Update on The Little House Project There were no comments on this item. (Mr. Merker returned to the dais at 8:25 p.m.) 14 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, FL April 9, 2013 H. Consideration of Renewing Lease with Jesus House of Worship Ms. Brooks explained this property was on 9th Avenue and Seacrest and it was purchased in 2007 for $300,000 in order to assemble property on the MLK Corridor. The Agency's Director, at that time, decided to lease the property back to the Church for $10 per year and the Church has been there for 10 years. The CRA does not own all the property in the area, but owned sufficient property to allow the private sector to buy what they needed for a project. The Church is on a month -to -month basis, and staff proposed to provide the Church with six months notice to vacate the building. Mr. Casello inquired if the property was being used for worship or storage and discussion followed staff and some members of the Board noted very little, if any, activity there. Mr. Merker thought it was important to have a place to worship. Mr. Simon made an appointment to enter the premises, but the appointment was cancelled. The plan was to demolish the building, clean up the property and put a sign up it was available for development. This request came about because staff was currently receiving unsolicited interest for the property. Chair Taylor noted the Church has had over five years to find another location. Also, the Agency awns the park that abuts the lot, giving twice the space to develop. He favored giving a six -month notice. Additional discussion followed it was important to be consistent with the leases and this lease was way below market value. Mr. Karageorge was aware of comparable properties in the HOB area that rent for $2,000 and he pointed out month -to -month leases are usually higher than a regular lease. The Church is a hold -over tenant, which usually would pay no more than double the rent. He thought a six -month lease should be entered into at a fair market price, or more than what they were currently paying. Chair Taylor pointed out the deal was made up front and should be honored. Vice Chair Hay wanted the opportunity to speak with the tenant along with staff, as he lives in the community and has a heart for churches. He suggested deferring this item to the next meeting to allow staff and him to meet with the Pastor and further evaluate the situation. Chair Taylor disagreed as this has been ongoing for more than five years. The Church sold the property to the Community Redevelopment Agency, took the money, and agreed to vacate. It was important to get the property developed. Mr. Buchanan offered a compromise to table the issue for one month to. allow Vice Chair Hay to conduct due - diligence and when the issue is addressed next month, only give five months notice. Vice Chair Hay thought when possible, the Commissioner for that district should be involved. 15 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, FL April 9, 2013 Motion Vice Chair Hay moved to table the item for one month. Mr. Casello seconded the motion that passed 6 -1 (Mr. Merker dissenting). . Quarterly Report from Stage Left Theatre There were no comments on this item. XIV. New Business: A. Presentation by Kim Delaney of Treasure Coast Regional Planning Council regarding the FEC Commuter Rail Project Kim Delaney, Treasure Coast Regional Planning Council and on behalf of the Metropolitan Planning Organization, provided an overview of the rail projects coming into the region and some of the land use considerations to position the City to participate in a forthcoming commuter rail service. The Planning Council reviews the relationship between transportation and land use and reviewed national statistics that look at the SE Florida region. The Texas Transportation Institute (TTI), associated with the University of Texas, assembles nationwide congestion data. It found southeastern Florida has the 7th worst congestion in the United States, 1 -95 to be the most dangerous road in the country, and the Interstate Improvement Plan does not provide congestion relief. Constrained roadways affect economic development and quality of life. The population is forecast to grow considerably and a 20 million increase through 2035 is anticipated. The State's Transportation Plan reflected conditions with the roadway network that are hard to build out of. The 2009 roadway system cannot meet the increase in demand and corridors were already expanded to capacity and will exist in a constrained condition going forward. There is not enough real estate to expand the system and by 2035, the entire transportation network will be constrained, so they are shifting the State's focus to transit. Roadway movement is measured by vehicle miles travelled and the land use patterns adopted over the last 20 years have made those conditions worse. The Secretary of the Department of Transportation for District IV indicated he only has 25% of the money to build 100% of the roadway capacity needed to accommodate the forecasted population increase. The roadway network will expand 42 %, but there will be twice as many people using it. This fact drives the Regional Planning Council to look at alternatives to maintain mobility and economic quality. A policy decision is needed. There are many reasons why transit alternatives and transit and land use have become high priorities in local government. The Planning Council interviewed local businesses, 16 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, FL April 9, 2013 the last time gas prices spiked, and business owners were issuing gas cards to help employees get to work. Another item was whether "green" alternatives were on the local agenda or whether they would embrace "green" alternatives in the future. From a carbon footprint perspective, the largest contributor to carbon emissions is single occupant cars sitting in traffic. Addressing transportation is a good way to reduce some of those impacts. Transit also gives the best return for transportation investments, having an eight to one return. There was much national data about the increased value of Transit Oriented Development (TOD's) and all types of land uses increasing the value of property within a half mile from transit corridors. The most recent data reflects that in the last five years, the same uses around transit nodes are worth 42% more than those more than half a mile away. A review of regions competing with the Treasure Coast showed successful regions had expanding transit networks and offered alternatives on how to get to work. A further review of other states reflected that they have expensive and expanding networks. Global competitors, such as China, Japan, France, Germany and the European Union have lots of transit. Ms. Delaney clarified land uses and TON were identified as a pattern of land use that focused on pedestrian connections. Every transit trip starts and stops with a pedestrian. TODs are characterized as fairly urban and Ms. Delaney noted Boynton Beach has a great land use pattern for a TOD. Another consideration is parking. Transit Adjacent Developments (TADs) were discussed. Ms. Delaney noted having a lot around a transit station does not necessarily increase ridership or leverage the investment. As to the Tri -rail corridor, much of the development was there before Tri - Rail ever went on -line. She commented Tri -Rail carries 16,000 passengers a day and 20,000 passengers equated to a full lane of traffic on 1 -95. The Planning Council was working with staff on the design features of TODs which is the system of streets and blocks needed to make the District a walkable place. They have a high focus on pedestrian comfort and active uses on the ground floor. TOD's have a good mix of buildings and uses and can have a mix of activity that results in natural surveillance, which affords safer spaces. Building design and placement is important, as is proper parking placement and additional considerations such as cultural and civic spaces, and public open spaces tying in with other transit modes. There is some State leadership on TOD's from the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT). The Planning Council just completed a two -year project for the State and assisted them in creating a guidebook for TODs, which staff already had.' It standardizes the definitions and terminology and FDOT is providing leadership in land use. 17 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, FIL April 9, 2013 Transit Oriented Developments are not one size fits all. Grand Central Station has a different scale that would not be appropriate for Boynton Beach. It is also not one size fits all as it pertains to the type of service that functions in a transit network. There is Tri -Rail and hopefully the future Tri -Rail Coastal Link service would come up the FEC railway to provide service to Boynton Beach. There is also high -speed rail, inner -city passenger rail, like Amtrak, and then a range of local services that correspond to land use patterns, such as local and regional bus service and bus rapid transit, that would likely be seen in the region in the next five to 10 years. Ms. Delaney reviewed the attributes and plans for the Amtrak line which serves about one million passengers per year in Florida. The existing Tri -Rail service carries about 16,000 people along 72 miles, and has 18 stations, including one on Gateway. Two types of service along the FEC corridor were on the horizon. One was the extension of Tri -Rail called the Coastal Link, and the second is a new model called Florida East Coast Industries, All Aboard Florida Service (FECI), which is an express intercity passenger service. The FECI is the first set of trains to travel the FEC rails that will carry passengers. It is a $1.5 billion private project introduced in May of last year. It has completed its environmental work from West Palm Beach to Miami and is beginning the environmental work from West Palm Beach to Orlando. It would likely be under construction by end of next year and operational in 2015. A second track would be added to the corridor and will also have three stations in southeast Florida. The Tri -Rail Coastal Link was extended on the FEC corridor having additional service north in West Palm Beach across a new connection, north to Jupiter, then extended across Pompano, which is a new connection, and then headed south on FEC into downtown Miami. A new service would include a station in Boynton Beach. This package of services will come before the MPO for endorsement this summer and all three of the segments were likely to be approved at same time as the environmental process and then there would be a local discussion about funding. A local contribution from cities with stations would be expected. This service would likely be completed in five to six years. As to station locations in Boynton Beach, FDOT and the South Florida Regional Transportation Authority, which runs Tri -Rail, has been working with all local governments to help identify station locations. The area of Boynton Beach Boulevard and Ocean Avenue was identified, and Gateway Boulevard and Dixie Highway were identified. From a planning consideration, the greatest immediate impact would be within a quarter mile radius of the TOD under consideration extending out up to half a mile. The City has many decisions to makeover the next year and Ms. Delaney noted much of the discussion would be focused on land use as a core part of the conversation to leverage the investment. 18 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, FL April 9, 2013 Vice Chair Hay inquired about funds to implement the most direct option and if there was a Federal program to build a direct route. Ms. Delaney responded the status, with respect to the master plan, was the State, the Metropolitan Planning Council, and the RTA was trying to package the project and submit it for federal funding consideration. The MPO would likely receive a request to endorse the action this summer and then all three packages will apply for federal funding. There was about 18 months of work to do to fine tune the station locations and part of that action will involve local conversations regarding funding. Each community will have to work though these conversations as it would probably entail additional funds to operate and maintain the service and each community will have to contemplate what makes sense for their community and how to participate in it. Vice Chair Hay inquired who was at the table for Boynton Beach and the County. Ms. Delaney responded the Palm Beach MPO and the Regional Planning Council for the Metropolitan Planning Council so the City has double representation. There are funding decisions to be made by the MPO Board before the project moves forward and the voting will return to the Palm Beach MPO to actually allocate funds. The Regional Planning Council is a facilitator as it is good for the region. Mr. Fitzpatrick noted the conceptual map showed the train station was on the east side of the track, and inquired, if it was double- tracked, whether there would be a platform on the north and south side. Ms. Delaney responded it would and every station along the corridor, with few exceptions, were located at existing grade crossings, so .there would be platforms on the east and west sides. It depended on what property was there. When asked if the Tri -Rail station on Gateway had a similar setup, Ms. Delaney responded the expectation was that stations along the FEC rail would have a lot more pedestrian access and development taking place around it. The existing stations along Tri -Rail were developed in the1980s and the presumption was for the public to drive or take a bus to Tri -Rail. The FEC is a completely different corridor from a land use perspective and it has a lot more people and jobs near the station and around that corridor. The station at Boynton Beach should have less parking or have parking integrated into other uses, making it flex parking. The physical station could be integrated into a mixed -use or standalone building. There is much more flexibility about how those stations would be physically located on the ground, because the land use conditions were better for transit along the FEC. Mr. Buchanan inquired about the feasibility of the project if there is little or no federal funding. Ms. Delaney explained it could be funded by state and local governments, but it would be at a higher cost. As to being privately funded, Ms. Delaney responded when looking at transportation systems, each piece of the network takes a subsidy to build it, and a subsidy to operate and maintain it. There is a cost involved for going through the federal process and more time and environmental work was needed to secure federal funds. There has been such discussion of funding with state and local funds. The FEC Intercity service is unique. The traffic from Miami and Orlando is fueled by South 19 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, FL April 9, 2013 American and .European travelers. The FEC's documents forecast they can make the service work if only half a percent of the 50 million motorists traveling between Miami and Orlando each year use the service. They will be directly competing with regional airlines and can produce a connection between those two cities at a time rate comparable to air travel, but at a cost that is slightly lower. European and South American tourists are accustomed to train travel. B. CRA Board Workshop Sponsored By Florida Redevelopment Association Chair Taylor encouraged the members to attend. This organization represents Community Redevelopment Agencies throughout Florida and provides training to elected officials, Board members and staff. Statute 163 governs the Community Redevelopment Agency and best practices of redevelopment. This is the first time the training would be offered in Palm Beach County. It was noted the training gives a great perspective of redevelopment. Those interested in attending should contact Ms. Brooks. XV. Executive Director's Report: A.. Project Status Update There were no comments on this item. XVI. Future Agenda Items: A. Responses to RFP for 211 E. Ocean - 5/14/13 B. Set Date for Budget Meeting - 5/14/13 C. RFQ for Professional Services- 5/14/13 D. RFQ for Insurance Brokerage Services - 5/14/13 E. Consideration of Amending Economic Development Programs- 5/14/13 Chair Taylor read the future agenda items for the benefit of the public. XVII. Adjournment There being no further business to discuss, the meeting was adjourned at 9:17 p.m. Catherine Cherry Recording Secretary 41913 20