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2012 Annual ReportMEMORANDUM TO: Lori LaVerriere, Boynton Beach City Manager FROM: Vivian Brooks, CRA Executive Directo g// DATE: March 21, 2013 RE: 2012 Annual Report CC: Jun Cherof, CRA Counsel Tim Howard, City Direct orpf Financial Services Janet Prainito, City Clerk ✓ Susan Harris, CRA Finance Director Attached are copies of my letters to the CRA Board enclosing a copy of the 2012 Annual Report, in compliance with Florida Statute 163.356(3)(c). On February 15, 2013, you received the Audited Financial Statements for the Period Ended September 30, 2012, in compliance with Florida Statute 163.387(8). In addition, a notice of the availability of these reports for public inspection at either the City Clerk's office or the CRA offices has been published. Enclosures 710 N Federal Highway �'° Boynton Beach, FL 33435 BC))YNTO N Ph: 561-737-3256 �Ifr BEACH Fax: 561-737-3258 a.com RA www.boyntonbeachcra.com March 21, 2013 Dear Board Chair Taylor, Enclosed is a copy of the Boynton Beach Community Redevelopment Agency's (CRA) Annual Report in compliance with Florida Statute S. 1 63.356(3)(c). Your vision and guidance has improved the quality of life for new residents in the former Ocean Breeze West site, enabled existing businesses to expand, encouraged business owners to relocate to the CRA district and created jobs. Our downtown is growing and the plans for the next phase of Marina redevelopment will strengthen commercial and residential vitality. Thank you for your dedication to the citizens of Boynton Beach and support of the redevelopment efforts in our CRA district. Sincerely, Vivian Brooks Executive Director Enclosure 710 N Federal Highway BOYNTO N Boynton Beach, FL 33435 Ph: 561-737-3256 � B EACHRA www.boyntonbeachcra.com 561-737-3258 yntonbeachcra.com March 21, 2013 Dear Board Member Hay, Enclosed is a copy of the Boynton Beach Community Redevelopment Agency's (CRA) Annual Report in compliance with Florida Statute S. 1 63.356(3)(c). Your vision and guidance has improved the quality of life for new residents in the former Ocean Breeze West site, enabled existing businesses to expand, encouraged business owners to relocate to the CRA district and created jobs. Our downtown is growing and the plans for the next phase of Marina redevelopment will strengthen commercial and residential vitality. Thank you for your dedication to the citizens of Boynton Beach and support of the redevelopment efforts in our CRA district. Sinc rely, Vivian Brooks Executive Director Enclosure BCON,NTOCRA BEACH March 21, 2013 Dear Board Member Segal, 710 N Federal Highway Boynton Beach, Fl 33435 Ph: 561-737-3256 Fax: 561-737-3258 www.boyntonbeachcra.com Enclosed is a copy of the Boynton Beach Community Redevelopment Agency's (CRA) Annual Report in compliance with Florida Statute S. 1 63.356(3)(c). Your vision and guidance has improved the quality of life for new residents in the former Ocean Breeze West site, enabled existing businesses to expand, encouraged business owners to relocate to the CRA district and created jobs. Our downtown is growing and the plans for the next phase of Marina redevelopment will strengthen commercial and residential vitality. Thank you for your dedication to the citizens of Boynton Beach and support of the redevelopment efforts in our CRA district. Sincerely, Vivian Brooks Executive Director Enclosure Bn.I,o,v,NTON BEACHtCRA March 21, 2013 Dear Board Member Merker, 710 N Federal Highway Boynton Beach, FL 33435 Ph: 561-737-3256 Fax: 561-737-3258 www.boyntonbeachcra.com Enclosed is a copy of the Boynton Beach Community Redevelopment Agency's (CRA) Annual Report in compliance with Florida Statute S. 1 63.356(3)(c). The vision and guidance of the CRA Board has improved the quality of life for new residents in the former Ocean Breeze West site, enabled existing businesses to expand, encouraged business owners to relocate to the CRA district and created jobs. Our downtown is growing and the plans for the next phase of Marina redevelopment will strengthen commercial and residential vitality. Thank you for your dedication to the citizens of Boynton Beach and support of the redevelopment efforts in our CRA district. Sincerely, Vivian Brooks Executive Director Enclosure 710 N Federal Highway BOYNTON � Boynton Beach, FL 33435 Ph: 561-737-3256 �M B EACHCRA www. boFax: 561-737yntonbeachcra.comcom March 21, 2013 Dear Board Member Fitzpatrick, Enclosed is a copy of the Boynton Beach Community Redevelopment Agency's (CRA) Annual Report in compliance with Florida Statute S.163.356(3)(c). The vision and guidance of the CRA Board has improved the quality of life for new residents in the former Ocean Breeze West site, enabled existing businesses to expand, encouraged business owners to relocate to the CRA district and created jobs. Our downtown is growing and the plans for the next phase of Marina redevelopment will strengthen commercial and residential vitality. Thank you for your dedication to the citizens of Boynton Beach and support of the redevelopment efforts in our CRA district. Sincerely, Vivian Brooks Executive Director Enclosure 710 N Federal Highway B00f ����Boynton Beach, FL 33435 Ph: 561-737-3256 -3258 BEACIHrRA Fax: 561-737a.com www.boyntonbeachcra.com March 21, 2013 Dear Board Member Buchanan, Enclosed is a copy of the Boynton Beach Community Redevelopment Agency's (CRA) Annual Report in compliance with Florida Statute S.163.356(3)(c). Your vision and guidance has improved the quality of life for new residents in the former Ocean Breeze West site, enabled existing businesses to expand, encouraged business owners to relocate to the CRA district and created jobs. Our downtown is growing and the plans for the next phase of Marina redevelopment will strengthen commercial and residential vitality. Thank you for your dedication to the citizens of Boynton Beach and support of the redevelopment efforts in our CRA district. Sincerely, Vivian Brooks Executive Director Enclosure BOYNTO CRA .:..BEACH March 21, 2013 Dear Board Member Karageorge, 710 N Federal Highway Boynton Beach, FL 33435 Ph: 561-737-3256 Fax: 561-737-3258 www.boyntonbeachcra.com Enclosed is a copy of the Boynton Beach Community Redevelopment Agency's (CRA) Annual Report in compliance with Florida Statute S. 1 63.356(3)(c). Your vision and guidance has improved the quality of life for new residents in the former Ocean Breeze West site, enabled existing businesses to expand, encouraged business owners to relocate to the CRA district and created jobs. Our downtown is growing and the plans for the next phase of Marina redevelopment will strengthen commercial and residential vitality. Thank you for your dedication to the citizens of Boynton Beach and support of the redevelopment efforts in our CRA district. Sincerely, Vivian Brooks Executive Director Enclosure •ZW 2012 Annual Report BOYNTON BEACH COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY BOYMOt� �,.BEAC �v-�Cp /� Letter from CRA Chair and Mayor Woodrow Hay With all the accomplishments to report on the CRA's progress in revitalizing our downtown, let me keep it simple by saying this past year has exceeded expectations - on many levels. From the launch of the Breeze into Boynton advertising campaign, to new housing and business opportunities - combined with an amazing variety of free events - word is quickly spreading about all we have to offer in Boynton Beach; clearly one of Palm Beach County's newest "destinations." While 2012 saw a change in City leadership, the CRA was able to complete its capital projects and aggressively advanced others, investing approximately $1.8 million in redevelopment. Some examples are: • Ongoing renovation of the Boynton Harbor Marina • Adaptive re -use of the historic Ruth Jones Cottage as "The Little House" restaurant • Seabourn Cove residential project • Construction of single-family homes at Ocean Breeze West in the Heart of Boynton We are excited for the future of Boynton Beach and look forward to continued positive change, in not only our elected officials, but in our quality of life and community pride. These are times of great progress in the City and we encourage you all to Breeze into Boynton, and stay awhile. Woodrow Hay, Board Chairman FINANCIAL INFORMATION CRA Funding The CRA is funded by the City of Boynton Beach and Palm Beach County through Tax Increment Financing. Tax increment revenue received by the CRA, is based on a formula defined in Florida Statute, Chapter 163.387(1)(a), and is generated from increases in taxable values within the CRA, after the CRA's creation date, multiplied by the current City and County millage rates. Florida Statute, Chapter 163.387(6) also defines expenditures for undertakings of the CRA, as described in the CRA Plan. Boynton Beach CRA District Overview of the Financial Statements The accounting policies of the CRA conform to United State's generally accepted accounting principles applicable to government units. The CRA's basic financial statements consist of government -wide statements, fund financial statements and notes to the financial statements. The financial statements contain other supplementary information in addition to the basic financial statements themselves. The CRA adopts an annual appropriated budget for its General Fund. A budgetary comparison schedule provided for the General Fund demonstrates compliance with its budget. �BE A�CCRA A A I\ Ongoing CRA Projects and Highlights Boynton Harbor Marina Renovations The completion of Phase I renovations to the Marina included the installation of the iconic Marina Entry "Lighthouse" Tower and Signage, and the CRA funding $50,000 towards construction of a new operations building for the Sea Mist III Drift Fishing Charter. The new building is shared with the International Jet -Ski and Boat Rental company. Phase II renovations will include a new Harbor Master building with public restrooms, waterfront public open space, traffic flow enhancements and additional signage. The Boynton Harbor Marina Signage & Landscaping Project will provide a smaller version of current Marina signage and enhanced landscaping at the northern entrance to the Boynton Harbor Marina, located at the corner of Federal Highway and East Boynton Beach Boulevard. For more information, visit: www.boyntonharbormarina.com "I'm always looking for ways to grow my local business, so when I heard about plans to redevelop the Boynton Harbor Marina, I wanted to learn more. I was so impressed, relocated from Lantana." Captain Geno Pratt, owner of Geno's Fishing Charter Ocean Avenue Projects: Ruth Jones Cottage Ocean Avenue began as Boynton Beach's Main Street, consisting of a small, gravel road that extended from the Atlantic Ocean over the Florida East Coast Railway tracks to present-day Congress Avenue. When 1-95 was built in the 1970's, Ocean Avenue's role as an artery was officially cut off. One of the purposes of relocating the Ruth Jones Cottage to Ocean Avenue was to turn it into a cafe and to further the importance of this downtown corridor. Records indicate the Cottage was built in the 1920's, due to the fact that it is primarily constructed of Dade county pine, which became extinct in the 1930's. Mrs. Ruth Jones lived in the home from 1945 until the CRA purchased it in 2007. The Agency felt it appropriate to save the structure since it was on the City's list of potential historic structures and was in sound, original condition (had never been renovated.) In order to preserve one of Boynton Beach's notable homes, the CRA relocated the 20,000 pound, 823 -square -foot building, six blocks from its original site at 201 N.E. First St., in June, 2011, to its current location at 480 East Ocean Avenue on a City -owned parking lot. After extensive exterior and interior renovations that saved virtually all of the Dade County Pine, the old cottage was transformed into The Little House restaurant, which opened for business in July, 2012. The CRA selected Chrissy Benoit (Adventurous Palate) former owner of Havana Hideout in Lake Worth, as the tenant. Ms. Benoit has significant restaurant experience and appeared on the Food Network's, "Diners, Drive- ins and Dives." The Phase II interior build -out portion of the project was completed in July, 2012, followed by the grand opening of The Little House, a unique cafe -brewery featuring locally farmed foods, craft beers, home-made Sangria and amazing desserts. www.thelittlehousebb.com The Ocean Avenue Amphitheatre is the site of many popular events. Jennifer Williams & Family Ocean Avenue Projects: Ocean Avenue Amphitheatre Located adjacent to the Schoolhouse Children's Museum & Learning Center, renovations included installation of "Sail -style" fabric canopy, theater lighting, 1,200 foot stage and colorful Mangrove Canopy public art feature. The Amphitheatre has proven to be the perfect venue for the CRA's free, Ocean Avenue Concert series, Movies on the Ave. and Haunted Pirates Fest. Ocean Breeze West As part of the CRA's revitalization efforts in the Heart of Boynton neighborhood, the Agency will donate 4.37 acres, located at 6th Avenue and Seacrest Boulevard, to Habitat for Humanity of South Palm Beach County Community Land Trust, Inc. (HFHSPBCCLT) partnering with the Boynton Beach Faith Based Community Development Corporation (CDC). This partnership is constructing 21 single-family homes. Currently two homes are completed, with six underway. HFHSPBCCLT recently dedicated the future home of Charitable Louis & Family at 107 Ocean Breeze Circle, and future home of Jennifer Williams & Family, located at 114 Ocean Breeze Circle. Seabourn Cove Sustainable projects protect and preserve Florida's environment. The Best Practice Award recognizes businesses, organizations and individuals for their dynamic work in helping to create a sustainable Florida. The City and CRA won the 2012 Sustainable Best Practices Award for its Climate Action Plan. This plan incorporated the City's International Green Construction Code (IGCC) partnering with the CRA to provide incentives for the development of Seabourn Cove, an upscale residential project. Funding also assisted with costs to bring the project up to a Gold Rating of the American National Standard Institute approved ICC 700-2008 National Green Building Standard. More than just another pretty place, Seabourn Cove is a multi-million dollar, gated townhome development and the nation's largest community of sustainable apartment homes. Smart looking and smart living, designed to save money and the environment; all in Boynton Beach's trendy downtown area. "This award is the culmination of the City and Community Redevelopment Agency's efforts to make Boynton Beach a city of choice to invest in a home, business, or property, and a popular area to spend quality, leisure time," stated Vivian Brooks, the CRA's Executive Director. " Artists at Boynton Beach's Arts District Crowds gather for the grand opening of Publix at Sunshine Square Plaza Sweetwater Char & Grill Celebrating the Arts in Boynton Beach Whether you're strolling through the Boynton Beach Art District with its bohemian atmosphere, eclectic art and brightly painted garage bay doors; visiting the unique art galleries that adorn Federal Highway, or traveling down Ocean Avenue to see the colorful stained glass and copper "Tree Art" hanging in the Banyan Trees, downtown Boynton Beach is your destination for art and entertainment. Visit CatchBoynton.com for more information on local art events, classes, exhibits, and how to Catch a (rising) star! Sunshine Square/ Las Ventanas Residential buildings and retail stores have replaced empty lots and abandoned buildings that once lined Boynton Beach's south Federal Highway corridor, thanks in part to CRA funding and developer incentives, and a surplus of buildable land. The progress continues with the grand opening of newly renovated Sunshine Square, 500-570 SE 15th Avenue at the intersection of Woolbright Road and Federal Highway. Residents and visitors living in the downtown area now have access to a variety of trendy, new restaurants and a brand new, 54,000 sq. ft Publix. Some of the new eateries include Smashburger, Tijuana Flats and Panera Bread. Just to the north, across Woolbright Road, is Las Ventanas, a beautiful mixed-use community of spacious, leased lofts, residences, and villas. Occupancy is at an all-time high and folks from all over Palm Beach County are traveling to the Shoppes at Las Ventanas to visit Sweetwater Bar & Grille and enjoy its "speakeasy" atmosphere and cocktails. The menu includes pages devoted to dozens of small -production flavored gins, rums, tequilas, single -malt scotches, bourbons and beers — not to mention a custom cocktail list. Federal Highway, US -1, leads through the center of the CRA's 1,650 acre district, serving as the main north/south corridor to the area's downtown Marina District. Businesses located here are eligible to apply for the Agency's commercial grant funding programs, and developers can take advantage of the available incentive programs if they build within the downtown district. "The CRA continues to play a leading role in energizing Boynton's downtown area through redevelopment efforts like our small business funding programs and fantastic lineup of cultural and special events. Combine these elements with public - private projects like Sunshine Square, and you have a win-win for everyone." Boynton Beach Mayor and CRA Chair Woodrow Hay The Backyard 511 N.E. Fourth Street CRA Economic Development Programs The CRA offers funding programs to assist businesses located in the CRA's 1,650 acre District. In 2011/12, these Programs (fapade, rent subsidy, interior build out, signage) disbursed $216,980 for 32 grants. Funds leveraged: 6 to 1 ratio - For every $1.00 of CRA funding the grant recipient expended $6.00. Jobs created: 30 In 2012, the Programs guidelines were updated and consolidated to include: • Commercial Fapade Improvements - 50 % matching funds, up to $15,000, for exterior improvements. • Interior Build -out - 50% matching funds, up to $22,500, in initial costs related to interior construction. • Rent Reimbursement -Financial assistance in reimbursement of rent payments, up to $600 per month. Funding is limited and awarded to qualified applicants, on a first come, first serve basis. ► t GO fISNING 60 f1)N ii @PEARCE WINDOWS & DOORS, INC. 3000 High Ridge Road # 7, Boynton Beach, FL 33426 Ph: 561-732-1127 Fay: 561-732-1170 Update: Breeze into Boynton Campaign With a refreshing new tagline, "Breeze into Boynton," the CRA developed a media co-op advertising campaign designed to promote the downtown Boynton Beach area merchants, bringing maximum attention to its downtown District and all the business and social opportunities this waterfront area has to offer. "We really appreciate all of the advertising you are doing on behalf of the Boynton businesses. Thanks again for all the time and effort you put in!" Margie & CJ Johnson, International Jet Ski Rentals In appreciation— The ppreciation— The CRA and City would like to extend a special thank you to Glen Pearce, owner of Pearce Windows & Doors, Boynton Beach, for his generous donation towards a new sign at Ocean Avenue Park. In addition to new signage, the venue, formerly known as Veteran's Park, has several other improvements, including checker/chess tables and colorful pieces of art hanging from the trees, illuminated with LED lights. f■ u 2012 July 4 - Salute to Independence: Annual patriotic celebration at Intracoastal Park featuring live music and fireworks. Sunday Funday - Boynton Harbor Marina is your tropical port for family fun along the waterfront. Downtown Open Market - A great way to spend the afternoon shopping for vintage goods, original artwork or purchase tasty treats from Gourmet Food Trucks onsite. Haunted Pirates Fest - Two days of non-stop family fun, all with a Pirate theme! Movies on the Avenue - Bring your lawn chairs to the Ocean Avenue Amphitheatre to watch first -run movies, and the admission is free! Sunday in the Park - New music series with musicians performing on the first Sunday of the month at Ocean Avenue Park. Ocean Avenue Concert Series - The Ocean Avenue Amphitheatre is the perfect venue for these free concerts featuring music by popular local bands. Community Farmers Market - Fresh produce, home-made desserts and Artisan Goodies! Held every Saturday. 2013 Haunted Pirates Fest - Watch out, Mateys.... another "Pirate Invasion" is scheduled for downtown Boynton Beach! Join us for more non-stop, family fun actitivites, food, music and live entertainment. Saturday, October 26 & Sunday, October 27. Holiday Extravaganza - Annual holiday parade, tree lighting and free concert. Saturday, December 7. The fun begins at 5:00 p.m. Holiday Boat Parade and Toys for Tots - Brightly decorated boats parade down the Intracoastal while Marines collect donated Toys for Tots. Friday, December 13. Pre -party begins at 5:30 p.m. 0