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Minutes 05-13-14 MINUTES OF THE COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY BOARD MEETING HELD IN COMMISSION CHAMBERS, CITY HALL, 100 E. BOYNTON BEACH BLVD. BOYNTON BEACH, FLORIDA, ON MAY 13, 2014, AT 6:30 P.M. Present: Jerry Taylor, Chair Vivian Brooks, Executive Director Joe Casello, Vice Chair Ken Spillias, Board Counsel Buck Buchanan Michael Fitzpatrick Mark Karageorge Mack McCray David Merker ® Call to Order Chair Taylor called the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m. Invocation and Pledge to the Flag The invocation was given by Mr. McCray, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag led by Vice Chair Casello. Roll Call Roll call established a quorum was present. IV. Legal: A. Update on Legal Matters Attorney Spillias explained an update of legal matters was contained in the meeting materials and advised on May 5th, a hearing was held regarding West Construction's Motion for Temporary Injunction and on the CRA's Motion to Dismiss. The Court denied the CRA's Motion, but made it clear before the matter moved to the hearing on the Temporary Injunction, West Construction would have a very difficult burden to establish a right to the injunction. The CRA was required to file an Answer no later than May 25 Attorney Spillias and legal counsel for West discussed there was a basis for resolving the matter without further extensive litigation expenses, but he needed direction from the Board and requested a CRA Executive Session. He thought the issue was promising and would be resolved. Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton .Beach, Florida May 13, 2014 After polling the members, there was agreement to schedule the session on May 19, 2014, at 10 a.m. Mr. Buchanan commented he would not be able to attend. Present at the session would be Ms. Brooks, Attorney Spillias, the Board and a court reporter. V. Agenda Approval: A. Additions, Deletions, Corrections to the Agenda Mr. Karageorge pulled Item VIII A. of the Consent Agenda. B. Adoption of Agenda Motion Mr. Karageorge moved to approve as amended. Mr. McCray seconded the motion that unanimously passed. 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 . Merker disclosed he spoke with Steve Skaggs, the owner of Two Georges. Vice Chair Casello announced he would be meeting with Attorney Bonnie Miskel and Tom Hayden of LeCesse to discuss development of the Ocean Avenue property. Messrs. McCray and Fitzpatrick disclosed they would be meeting with Attorney Bonnie Miskel and her client on Tuesday. Chair Taylor commented he would be meeting with Attorney Miskel on Friday as well. B. Informational Announcements Mr. McCray attended the Citrus Cove Media Center Dedication. Mr. Karageorge advised he received a response from Carol Westmoreland, Executive Director of the Florida Redevelopment Association, advising him his suggestion to have an award for Financial Excellence would not occur in 2015, but would in 2016. He thought Finance Director Susan Harris should be nominated for her work. He attended the Movie Night event and gave kudos to the staff. On Saturday, the Town Square Planning meeting would be held at 9 a.m. 2 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, Florida May 13, 2014 Mr. Karageorge addressed the City Commission, the CRA Board and City Clerk's Office and announced he had approached Board Counsel to provide him with a letter for his employer on how Mr. Karageorge should proceed in the event his employer pursued business with the City and CRA. After discussion and reviewing legal and ethical regulations, it was determined either the company does not do business, or the Board member should resign. He advised at the conclusion of this meeting, he would resign from the. CRA Board to avoid any perception of a conflict of interest or even the appearance of any impropriety. He announced he performed his duties with the highest ethical and professional standards possible, while others have not. He thanked the CRA staff individually for their assistance and praised and thanked each of his fellow Board members. He acknowledged the contributions the City Clerk's Office lends the meetings via the minutes and he reviewed the many accomplishments the CRA completed during his tenure on the Board. Motion Mr. Karageorge moved to recommend to the City Commission at its meeting the next week, they accept his resignation and appoint Woodrow Hay to fill his seat on the Board. Mr. Merker objected as only the City Commission can make the appointment to the Board. Attorney Spillias agreed and explained Mr. Karageorge was expressing his opinion. A motion was not needed. Mr. Karageorge explained Mr. Hay could complete his term which expires March 2015. Mr. Hay, as a former City Commissioner and CRA Board member, could facilitate a smooth transition. If opened to the public, by the time the appointee got up to par, the term would be over. Mr. Karageorge discussed the matter with Mr. Hay, and he indicated, if the position was offered, he would accept. Mr. Karageorge wanted the Board to recommend the City Commission take that action. Chair Taylor expressed his sorrow at the resignation and his appreciation for the great service Mr. Karageorge had provided. He commented after the meeting, Mr. Karageorge's comments would not be governed by the Sunshine Law and he was open to his ideas and suggestions. Vice Chair Casello expressed his surprise at the resignation and commented Mr. Karageorge's knowledge was invaluable. He hoped to keep in contact with him. Mr. Merker thanked him for his friendship and knowledge. Mr. McCray thanked Mr. Karageorge for his kind words and was glad to have worked with him. 3 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, Florida May 13, 2014 Mr. Buchanan agreed with the prior comments and thanked him for his contributions. He looked forward to working with him in the future and wished him well. Mr. Fitzpatrick agreed with the prior comments and that Mr. Karageorge was a wealth of knowledge, and he thanked him for his service. Ms. Brooks thanked Mr. Karageorge for supporting the mission of the CRA and his support of staff. She thanked him for being part of the team. It was also affectionately noted the meetings would be shorter without him. VII. Announcements & Awards: A. Movies in the Park: May 2 — Recap - The Secret Life of Walter Mitty Ms. Zimmermann, Marketing, Events and Economic Development Assistant, wished Mr. Karageorge the best and hoped to see him at events. She announced the movie had a great turnout. She distributed about 150 raffle tickets to adult attendees and believed there were about 250 people at the movie. Momentum was building and gift certificates to local businesses were distributed and raffled off as part of the events. June 27 — The Lego Movie Ms. Zimmermann explained instead of showing the movies on the first Friday of the month, they will show it on the last Friday of the month, to accommodate the release of the movie. She noted students will have completed school so there should be a good turnout. B. Happy Hour Thursday — Music on the Rocks /Shaken Not Stirred Ms. Zimmermann announced the concert was rained -out. Riverdown would perform classic rock and pop on May 15 and she advised the concerts were extended to 9 p.m. and to June. Food and beverages would be offered. String Theory has a following in the Delray and Boynton Beach area and would perform reggae, classic pop, and rock on June 1.9 Ms. Brooks commented the CRA had a professional videographer create a video that showcased local restaurants. It was very well done and they offered raffles for those particular restaurants at these event. Mr. Karageorge noted there has been positive feedback from them. Mr. Fitzpatrick noted the meeting materials indicate one individual did not want their restaurant highlighted and inquired why. Ms. Brooks responded no reason was given. VIII. Consent Agenda: 4 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, Florida May 13, 2014 A. Approval of Minutes — CRA Board Meeting, April 8, 2014 This item was pulled by Mr. Karageorge. B. Approval of Period Ended April 30, 2014 Financial Report C. Monthly Purchase Orders IX. Pulled Consent Agenda Items: A. Approval of Minutes — CRA Board Meeting, April 8, 2014 Mr. Karageorge made the following corrections: Page 3, last sentence should be deleted: " HeappT °meted both th Housing AuthoFity, and he FeGOgnized Mr 6CaFageorge as he had serne'RpUt in the donation Page 9, the sentence before Adjournment should read: "Mr. Karageorge commented eGe6se - Lyman Reynolds would give a report at the next meeting. Motion Mr. Karageorge moved to approve the minutes as amended. Mr. McCray seconded the motion that unanimously passed. X. Information Only: A. Public Comment Log Mr. McCray noted the Comment Log indicates "the comment would be represented on the Comment Log." He noted it should read would be presented. B. Update on Irrigation and Maintenance of Vacant Lot - 222 N. Federal Highway There were no comments on this item. C. Marketing Collaboration- Florida Trend Magazine There were no comments on this item. 5 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, Florida May 1 3, 2014 D. Business Development Advertising Campaign There were no comments on this item E. Annual Filing of Statement of Financial Interests Chair Taylor commented he was advised the form would be mailed to his home, but he had not received it. Mr. Merker commented he received his form. Susan Harris, Finance Director, agreed to look into the matter and speculated the delay was due to the timing of the mailing. Chair Taylor pointed out if a Board member was also a City Commissioner; they only had to file the form once. I. Public Comments: (Note: comments are limited to three - minutes in duration) Steve Anton, 234 SE 2 nd Avenue, commented Boynton Beach was the only City in the State located between the Everglades and the Atlantic Ocean giving the City a big advantage. Eco- tourism is very lucrative and the City could capitalize on it. He planned to present the proposal to the City Commission as well. Mr. Anton was a former park ranger and was aware there was a lot of interest in this type of recreation. It could also generate a lot of fees. He emphasized in order for an activity to be successful, it should occupy the individual for four hours. He thought the City would be successful pursuing the activity. Minister Bernard Wright, 713 NW 2 nd Street, commented MLK Boulevard, at one time, was a bustling and successful street and a lifeline of Boynton. It brought solidarity to the community and was a place for families. He would like to see this restored on the corridor and would like to see a cultural center there to bring about the true history of Boynton Beach including the histories of the African - Americans, Haitians and other segments of the community. This would attract businesses to fill vacant lots on the corridor, and provide a community for the Boynton Beach natives that still remain. It would restore life back to the corridor and generate money for those families. He requested the Board consider the matter. Chair Taylor pointed out later in the meeting, the Board would be discussing the Heart of Boynton Redevelopment Plan which would provide insight as to what was planned for the area later in the meeting. Minister Wright explained MLK Boulevard catered to some of the greatest entertainers that ever lived, especially African - American entertainers. Mr. Karageorge agreed and explained the CRA was putting a Family Dollar Store at the corner of Seacrest and MLK Boulevards. There were other items on the agenda geared to the Heart of Boynton that would improve the quality of life. Minister Wright appreciated that, but pointed out it had 6 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, Florida May 13, 2014 nothing to do with community, family and native monies that would be generated. He expressed Family Dollar was taking money out of the community. Mr. Karageorge remarked Family Dollar would generate jobs and was the first commercial building in the Heart of Boynton in 55 years. Minister Wright expressed he would like to see African - American businesses there and lighting was needed. Public Comments was closed. X 11. Public Hearing: A. Consideration and Approval of the Updated Heart of Boynton Community Redevelopment Plan Ms. Brooks explained this item was part of the Strategic Plan that was recently adopted and it was the first task the CRA and City staff completed. Ms. Brooks reviewed a PowerPoint showing a map of the Heart of Boynton and explained - the area was predominately African - American. The Heart of Boynton had an interesting street layout and there were some very small lots. The Heart of Boynton Plan evolved from a charette involving 400 participants. Staff identified and interviewed community stakeholders, they conducted planning and design charettes and the Plan was adopted in 2001. Key strengths and weaknesses of the area were identified. There were two. elementary schools and Head Start Center, two active Community Development Corporations, churches, and a strong City /CRA commitment to the area. Cherry Hill Public Housing and Boynton Terrace were seen as weaknesses and there was loitering and crime at local small stores and a large number of small vacant parcels. The neighborhood Master Plan recommendations in 2001 were to create seven neighborhoods west of Seacrest that would be single - family homes. East of Seacrest would be predominantly multi - family. Land assembly for new development at Cherry Hill, the MLK corner and southeast quadrant would have a predominantly Floribbean design Seventy -nine new homes were constructed in the neighborhood by the CRA, the City, the Community Development Corporation and Habitat for Humanity. There were 75 homes renovated, the Cherry Hills development was demolished and an RFP was awarded to develop the land. Boynton Terrace was demolished Wilson Park was redeveloped into the Carolyn Sims Community Center, the Palmetto Green Park Expansion was completed, land was acquired for the Sara Sims Park and a master plan was adopted. The Seacrest Boulevard streetscape was completed. The MLK Streetscape was designed, but staff was waiting for more development to occur. The City and CRA assembled over 100 properties, but because the lots were small and owned by..multiple owners, some of whom held out for high purchase prices, assembling the land took longer than was hoped. Additionally, the lots were not always adjacent to one another. 7 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, Florida May 13, 2014 There was a Development Agreement in place with the Family Dollar Store for an 8,100 square foot store. A map depicting new or rehabbed homes and land owned by the City and CRA was reviewed. Some of the changes made since 2001 were new mixed -use districts and transit - oriented developments. There may be future commuter rail service, economic development and historic preservation programs were in place. There were redevelopment opportunities identified since the plan was adopted that staff thought would help stabilize the community. They have a model -block program on west MLK Boulevard on the north side and staff was working with non - profit groups to install streetscape improvements including trees, sidewalks and lighting. The Ocean Breeze East homes would be between 6 and 7 ". There would be commercial mixed use and residential uses on Seacrest, bringing new residents to the area which would make commercial enterprise more viable. There is a lot of vacant land in the Heart of Boynton, making it difficult to bring business to the area. The MLK Commercial Center was on the nodes on MLK and Seacrest Boulevards and MLK Boulevard and Railroad. In addition to the Family Dollar Store staff was working on a 10,000 square foot, full - service grocery store on the corner of MLK and Seacrest. The community had been asking for a grocery store for a long time, but more residents were needed. Ms. Brooks reviewed Ocean Breeze West and noted the RFP to develop the project was on the agenda. It is a four -acre site and it would be a major project for the community. Staff started acquiring property in the Cottage District because the block was strangely platted and an RFP to build new homes would be issued later in the year. It was hoped a developer would be creative and provide opportunities for homeownership there. Currently, there are lots of rentals, but staff was looking to stabilize the neighborhood via homeownership. Sara Simms Park expansion included the historic African - American burial ground that would be memorialized and the park. A master plan was already in place, and other properties needed to be acquired to complete it. The abutting properties were in very bad shape and were boarded. All of the projects were starting to come together and connect the neighborhood. Mr.. McCray commented the playground equipment at Sara Simms Park was removed and not replaced. Ms. Brooks explained the plan included play equipment and a small area for a small concert or gathering. The concept was created from comments made by community residents at the meetings at the Carolyn Sims Center. It would be a nice open space for picnics. The east side of Seacrest would have a density increase in the middle of the MLK corridor, and there would be Light Industrial to create jobs as the neighborhood has routinely expressed jobs were needed. Staff recommended a change from General 8 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, Florida May 13, 2014 Commercial to Light Industrial with higher design standards to make the area more attractive. There would be a buffer between the single - family and light industrial areas via a townhome -type development that would be within walking distance of a train stop. To support and create a viable train stop, increased density was needed. The height of the townhomes would only be four stories and no more than 45 feet in height. A public meeting was held on October 24, 2013, at the Sara Sims Center and staff used i- clicker technology. Overall, the public supported the recommended changes. Postcards were sent to every address in the Heart of Boynton for the meeting and a public notice in the Palm Beach Post. Staff recommended approval. Mr. Karageorge thought it was a great update and hoped Planning and Zoning would be able to approve the project timely due to the land use and density changes and the issuance of the RFP. Mr. McCray inquired where a citizen would obtain a copy of the Plan. Ms. Brooks responded copies were available at the CRA office and it was online and could be downloaded. Mr. McCray requested 10 copies. Mr. Merker requested the definition of General Commercial. Ms. Brooks explained General Commercial was a very broad category. Light Industrial is not heavy manufacturing. It could be a builder with an office to store things. Quantum had light Industrial. Ms. Brooks thought it was a positive change because small business will not generate waste or noise and it would create jobs. Mr. Merker thought Light Industrial should be monitored. Ms. Brooks agreed and explained it is monitored through licensing and Code Compliance. Motion Mr. Merker moved to approve. Mr. Karageorge seconded the motion. Mr. Fitzpatrick felt public funds should not be used to subsidize single - family homes. From an environmental perspective, he felt backyards were not a good use of land. They require a lot of water, there is runoff, and pesticides and fertilizers pollute the waterways. He thought there should be single - family units, but did not believe government should be in the single - family home business. Mr. Fitzpatrick had no objections to the Cottage District, but took exception to the Model Block project. He did not see any reason to support it. Another issue was the population projections for Boynton Beach showed another 30,000 residents. He did not see any planning to accommodate the increase. He took the trolley ride familiarization tour for developers and commented he was interested in Greenways. He thought a Greenway along the FEC corridor made the most sense now more than ever. There was ongoing discussion about adding another 30 passenger I . trains per day, and when the Panama Canal widening project is completed, there would 9 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, Florida May 1, 2014 be more cargo trains. He thought there should be a 200 -foot buffer along the FEC corridor, and it was not in the Plan. A buffer would help with noise and vibrations Mr. Merker pointed out the purpose of a CRA is to improve blighted and slum areas and inquired about the definition of ownership. Ms. Brooks clarified that all the concepts viewed would be subsidized via a land buy down. They would not construct homes. An RFP would be issued and a private developer would construct them. The fabric of the community on the west side of Seacrest was fairly healthy. It could change on its own over time', but the community would not appreciate inserting multi - family homes there. The community was agreeable to construct them on the east side and supported the concepts. Chair Taylor opened the Public Hearing. Minister Bernard Wright questioned who the community was that designed and approved the Plan. He emphasized they were discussing MLK Boulevard and it is the heart of the African - American community. Mr. McCray explained in 2001, a charette was held. Many members of the community met at St. John Missionary Baptist Church and various other churches to provide residents the opportunity to state what they wanted. From that, it was learned they wanted a grocery store. Minister Wright wanted the names of the church ministers who attended and asked if they resided in the community. Mr. McCray responded they were from Boynton. Dr. Martha Meeks Light, he, and many others provided input. Minister Wright commented the street was a historic street and the Plan should include the Robert Wells Subdivision, which was left out. Mr. McCray explained they were reviewing the totality of the street. Other residents indicated they wanted more businesses on MLK Boulevard. This was why copies of the plan were available. Minister Wright had no objection as long as the individuals native to Boynton Beach and lived in the area. Minister Wright commented the higher echelon of the African - American community did not care about those that owned the corridor. They never knew anything about the underprivileged or their future. Myra Jones, 311 NW 4 Avenue, was privileged to be a citizen of Boynton Beach. She gave accolades to those who represented the City for the 45 years she has been a resident. She lives two blocks away from the new Galaxy E3 Elementary School and was very proud the City and CRA stood by the citizens. They marched with the community to fight drugs and crime. She noted 20 years ago, the City held a retreat to create the Heart of Boynton Plan. Many residents attended and the residents were told many of them would not live to see the plan completed. She thanked staff for working on the project. The Plan was not dreamed up; rather it was the result of input from the community. She thanked the CRA for enacting it and inquired what the citizens could do to help. 0 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, Florida May 13, 2014 Mr. McCray announced there would be a dedication at the Galaxy E3 Elementary School on Thursday, at 9 a.m. Steve Anton, 334 SE 2 nd Avenue, explained he is a Boynton Beach Historical Society Board member and research was being done on that area. Archivist Janet DeVries and Dr. Ginger Pedersen travelled to Washington D.C., at their own expense, to view the original land plats and review some of the historic areas in Boynton Beach. Steven Grant, 136 NE 3 rd Avenue, advised he lives just south of the Heart of Boynton, and he had a choice of where to live. He chose Boynton Beach because it was close to 1 -95 and Federal Highway. He noted the CRA put a lot of thought into the Master Plan and did not know if the CRA coordinated with the City to assemble lots. He was also Chair of the Financial Advisory Committee and they were making recommendations for the vacant lots. He indicated he would forward them as the Committee sought to help make Boynton Beach the best. He loves walking his dog in the Heart of Boynton and it was a pleasure to live in a City where one can say hello and receive a response. Mr. McCray thanked Chair Taylor for allowing the public to speak. The opportunity was presented to the community to speak and be heard. The motion passed 6 -1 (Mr. Fitzpatrick dissenting.) III. Old Business A. Review of Phase Four of the Marina Redevelopment Project Ms. Brooks explained the Marina has been in the forefront since 1981 when the first CRA plan was adopted. Staff stepped up its redevelopment when they were able to purchase a portion of it from the Skaggs family, another portion from the Related Group, and a portion of it from the City. Now that there was a large portion owned, the CRA could improve it and create a unified look. The final Master Plan was created in 2009. Work on the Marina included dredging the basin, installation of new pilings, piers, docks, fish cleaning stations, and individual meters for water and electric at the slips. They replaced wood at the fuel dock. The next phase was to attract attention to the Marina and install a small park with green space. They pump a million dollars in gas out of two old gas pumps, which were being upgraded. The underground portions of the pumps were replaced and above ground gas pumps would allow larger boats and yachts to be serviced. The CRA was constructing a small ship store and public restrooms. Customers and boaters come to the Marina and need to use facilities. The grounds are being landscaped with trees. The final phase was to address an older building, constructed by the Hall family, which had apartments upstairs and retail downstairs. The concrete building was non- conforming and there were visibility issues with it because it was on a corner. Both the 11 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, Florida May 13, 2014 construction and renovations were in conformance with the approved Master Plan. Ms. Brooks pointed out there was a lot of activity in a small area. There were two active restaurants, Marina customers and vendors, businesses and the residents of Marina Village. B. CRA Development Project Update: Boynton Harbor Marina Harbor Master Building Project Ms. Brooks explained the project was a permit - approved project ready to go. Vice Chair Casello was unaware a permit had already been issued. Ms. Brooks explained the CRA always gets the project permit approved as it diminishes the need for change orders. She apologized and commented the permit was inexpensive and was basically for landscaping. The CRA sought to create a sitting area with lots of palms and shade areas. Pictures of what was proposed were viewed, including an open air kiosk, from Jupiter which was very popular. Ms. Brooks put this on the agenda because she wanted to be prepared for the budget meeting, and researching other options at that time would delay the project. Mr. Karageorge noted a few years ago, the CRA was ready to demolish the building, but a Palm Beach County Commissioner intervened and the demolition was postponed. Mr. Karageorge recently had discussions with the County and was told if they want to bring the project back, now was a good time to do so. Demolition was originally budgeted for $150K. Even if $100K were budgeted for demolition, he thought it was prudent to undertake the demolition and complete the work in the master plan, as opposed to undertaking a major site plan modification. Mr. Merker had concerns. Retail stores were already there and the area was busy. The parking, safety and noise would affect the public and retail stores and there could be trouble. He thought those issues should be considered before constructing a building. He wanted to hear from the public. At a workshop, Vice Chair Casello had an idea for the building and he requested the CRA Director sit with Planning and Development to see if there was anything that could be done with the building. If it had potential, it should be reviewed. He had made this comment'a few months ago and comments were received which should be considered. Chair Taylor agreed the building was discussed before and the decision was to demolish the building and make it a green space. The building was below Code, and it would be cost prohibitive to bring it up to Code. He thought demolition would be less than $150K. He acknowledged there were some good suggestions for the space, such as a breakfast nook or coffee shop, but he liked the idea of open space, benches and a green area. 12 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton. Beach, Florida May 13, 2014 Linda Cross, 625 Casa Loma, Unit 601, the Treasurer of the Marina Village Board and Condominium Association, explained they waited eight years for the Master Plan to be instituted and every option for keeping the dive shop was considered. The Plan called to demolish the building and to replace it with green space and a much needed Boardwalk. She noted there was a great. deal of pedestrian traffic. The building obstructs the view when driving down Casa Loma, from the corner. Cars cannot see the pedestrians and vice versa. It was a problem. There were noise issues. The police have been called to both Two Georges and Banana Boat. On Friday, Saturday and Sunday night there are bands until 11 p.m. She commented Hurricane Alley, the Backyard, Two Georges and Banana Boat were near. She did not think another bar was needed. Ms. Cross noted the Board spends a lot of money removing trash from two levels in the parking garage and there are only 125 parking spaces. Between November and May, the garage is full. Many motorists that are not residents of Marina Village go to the second floor and cannot turn around. Some drivers back down to the first floor which creates havoc. Even during off season, the garage is fairly full and there are still eight retail units that are not rented. She supported the green space as the best use for the space. Peter Armour, 700 E. Boynton Beach Boulevard, Marina Village, agreed with Ms. Cross's comments. The property manager emailed Mike Simon, CRA Assistant Director, indicating they spend about 25 hours a week to clean the garage. He agreed there have been many fender benders and near misses with pedestrians. He hoped the situation could be rectified. He thanked Ms. Brooks for recognizing the traffic concern with the building and the blind spot. The building was outdated, an eyesore, and he endorsed the green space proposed for the area as contained in the Plan. Mary Pat Ryan, 625 Casa Loma, an original owner, explained her unit is at the roof line of the former dive shop. She has seen, since 2006, the vehicle and pedestrian traffic grow. She agreed the building creates a blind spot. She loves living at Marina Village and when company comes, they like to sit and watch the boats. She was opposed to adding another bar or commercial establishment. When she moved, it was represented there would only be two restaurants. She supported replacing the building with green space as there was no place to sit along the walkway. Brian Fitzpatrick, 214 NE 1 St Avenue, commented when he thinks of green space, he thinks of the four acres on the south side of Ocean Avenue and Federal Highway that years ago had a useful building, which has since been demolished. He read about a potential .piano bar at the former dive shop and disagreed with the prior comments made. He expressed more businesses were needed downtown and thought the numbers to demolish the building were exaggerated. The building could become a thriving restaurant. There could be parking on the corner of 1 St and 1 St and he implored 13 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, Florida May 13, 2014 the CRA to make something from an empty building because vacant lots do not pay taxes. Mike Minia, 625 Casa Loma, Unit 808, explained the issue with the building is it is in an awkward location. Noise would be drastic because it is close to the neighboring building. The parking lot was completely full during season and on the weekends during the summer. Mr. Merkerleft the dais at 8:17 p.m. From morning till night, the parking lot is full. He agreed with the comments made by Ms. Cross. Traffic jams occur. Two weeks ago, the garage gate was broken and indecency had been observed via sexual activity in vehicles and people urinating there. Mr. Merker returned to the dais at 8:19 p.m. Mr. Minia commented Marina Village cannot accommodate any more as it was at capacity. Gayla Hensley, 700 E. Boynton Beach Boulevard, a four -year resident, liked the green space concept. She reiterated the prior comments and did not support another outside business. As commercial business locates there, existing business should also be supported. Safety was her biggest concern. Lauren Truckenbrodt, supported the Marina Village Board's comments. Safety was an issue because the sidewalk ends. She has almost been hit by a car twice in the parking garage. She loves the hustle and bustle of the Marina. She agreed the eight vacant commercial spaces should be filled and appreciated the CRA's consideration of the green space. Steve Anton, 334 SE 2 nd Avenue, explained the Dive Shop at the Marina is one of the oldest dive shops in Florida, which was why the County did not permit the building to be demolished. Mr. Anton polled the public and explained all the complaints received about condo living were expressed in Dade and Broward Counties. He thought the building was a viable building. Eco tourism included diving. There was a paddleboard shop and-jet ski rentals there. Water- oriented individuals tend to be kind, laid -back, and spend a lot of money. He thought it may not be in the CRA's best interest to destroy a building that would attract water - oriented individuals. Mr. Buchanan pointed out one consideration that was omitted when discussing a business at that location, regardless of the type of business, was it brings in more people and it was not good to have business there that would compete for the same service. By not adding another small business, they are in effect, supporting the other small businesses. There are plenty of opportunities for business in the vacant units, and an attractive front would attract more individuals. That was where the coffee and 14 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, Florida May 13, 2014 book shops should go, and patrons can sit and enjoy the view. He did not believe the City would approve a building that had no designated parking, that was non - conforming and that needed a lot of work. He acknowledged the safety issue and any pressure regarding - parking was negative for all the businesses. He endorsed adhering to the Master Plan as it was well thought out. Mr. Merker commented the public agreed with the concerns he raised and his concern was for the residents. Adding a bar was great, but without parking and with the safety and noise problems, it created a hazard. Mr. Fitzpatrick explained in the late 80s, a developer from Myrtle Beach commented there was 10 pounds of stuff in a five pound bag, which he likened to Marina Village. There was not enough open space and he favored demolition of the building. Vice Chair Casello respected the residents of Marina Village and commented 90% of the problems there were due to parking, which may have been a design flaw. He favored bringing businesses to Boynton Beach. It did not have to be a bar, only a viable small business that attracted the public to the Marina. He understood the desire to have a green space, but he favored bringing business into Boynton Beach and to the Marina. He thought the logistics could be worked out afterward. He reiterated Ms. Brooks would contact Planning and Development to determine if there was anything the building could be used for and he thought it was prudent to do so. The building was constructed in 1940, withstood every hurricane, had character and history, and he wanted more discussion before voting to demolish the building. Mr. McCray explained Marina Village was formerly in District 1, and he appreciated replacing the building with green space. He read the comments, listened to the public, heard the voice of the people and was ready to vote. Chair Taylor understood Vice Chair Casello's thoughts and also wanted to attract small business to the downtown, but noted there were other areas for small business to locate. He would love to see a piano bar, but did not believe it would be at the right location. He favored following the Master Plan. Mr. Karageorge pointed out these changes would be in next year's budget. Motion Mr.. Karageorge moved to direct staff to continue with the Master Plan and budget accordingly for the budget workshop. Mr. Buchanan seconded the motion that passed 6 -1 (Vice Chair Casello dissenting.) Mr. Fitzpatrick inquired if the item needed to be approved by the County Commission. Attorney Spillias responded there would need to be discussions with them and there had been an easement issue. Chair Taylor agreed, but pointed out the composition of 15 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, Florida May 13, 2014 the County Commission has changed and it had been indicated if approached, they would receive the issue favorably. Now is the time to approach the County. Mr. Simon provided an update on the Harbor Master Building. Photographs were contained in the meeting materials. The slab of the Harbor Master Building was poured forming the grade beam and vertical walls were erected. The top wall forms were installed, truss beams were placed and the roof truss would be delivered on Monday. He was very happy with the contractor and the progress. C. CRA Development Project Update: Parking Lot Project on NE 1st Ave. & NE 1st Street and & Sidewalk Connector located at 208 NE 1st Avenue Mr. Simon gave an update with photos. The parking lot would accommodate 58 parking spots and would connect areas of Ocean Avenue and the Downtown. All the underground work was complete and the sub - surface for the tar and gravel was laid. The drainage and rough electric was progressing and the sidewalk connector area was cleared Mr. Fitzpatrick inquired, if a tree was killed during the process, if it would be replaced and at what caliper. Mr. Simon responded the City's requirement is one to one. The trees were not being relocated, and the City would not approve the project if the trees were killed. D. Consideration of Family Dollar Proposed Site Plan and Elevations Henry Dirksen, Boos Development, 5789 NW 151 Street, Unit B, Miami Lakes, explained a part of the Development Agreement Boos Development had was to bring - back the site plan and proposed elevations for the Board's review and approval. He reviewed the proposed elevation of the project which is constructed on assembled parcels located on the southeast corner of Seacrest and MLK Boulevards, previously occupied by a church. Pre - application meetings were held with Planning and Zoning and they addressed their concerns and comments. Parking was to Code and the site plan received approval from Boos Development. The elevation was above and beyond what a typical Family Dollar fagade would normally be. Photos of the elevation were viewed. In general, the building had covered awnings over the main entrance and textural accents, faux shutters and windows, in addition to real windows on the store front. Additional landscape was added throughout the site to adequately buffer it from adjacent residential properties and the adjacent right of way. Mr. Buchanan commented the elevation was an improvement from the original fagade. He noted prior discussions about development in the area favored a Floribbean design and he inquired if that was expensive. 16 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, Florida May 13, 2014 Paul Trembly, Boos Development, 5789 NW 151 Street, Unit B, Miami Lakes, explained a hip or hinged roof with a peak would be cost prohibitive at this location. They need a low building with parapets and a flat roof. They priced the elevation to ensure the project would be within their financial range. Vice Chair Casello inquired how many full times jobs the business would create. Mr. Trembly explained depending on the work load, 10 to 12 employees would be hired, some part time. Family Dollar Stores hire from within the community. The jobs are typically minimum wage jobs unless elevated to management. Chair Taylor requested a motion to approve the site plan and elevation design as presented by Boos Development, Inc. for the Family Dollar Store project. Motion Mr. McCray so moved. Mr. Merker seconded the motion. Mr. Trembly explained once they finish the site plan approval process, they planned to start right away. There were no comments from the public. The motion unanimously passed. IV. New Business: A. Consideration of Conceptual Designs for the Federal Highway Entry Signage Project Mr. Simon explained the task was to review conceptual designs for the Federal Highway Entry Signage which was approved by the Board during the budget discussions and final hearing. The project entailed a review of the existing conditions surrounding the entrance at Federal Highway on the south and north ends of the City and a review of existing signage at 1 -95 and Boynton Beach Boulevard. Community Redevelopment Agency and City staff reviewed several designs and schematics with Kimley Horn working their way to the final three being presented. Staff recommended a consensus for concept one. Chair Taylor liked the sign saying Welcome to Boynton Beach, and after polling the members, there was unanimous consent to use the Welcome to Boynton Beach sign. Next would be lighting the sign and installing Royal Palms behind it to create a nice entrance. Once they select the concept, Kimley Horn would incorporate it into the coral wall and bring the design back to the Board in final form. Mr. Fitzpatrick inquired if LED lights could be used. Mr. Simon explained if the application and fixtures would allow it, they would use LED lights. 17 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton ,Beach, Florida May 13, 2014 E. Consideration of Issuing an RFP /RFQ for the CRA Owned Parcel Known as Ocean Breeze East Ms. Brooks explained the CRA purchased Ocean Breeze in 2007. It is a nine -acre parcel bifurcated by Seacrest Boulevard. The west parcel was known as Ocean Breeze West, which has 21 single - family homes, most of which are occupied. The east side was proposed for a multi - family mixed use, or strictly multi - family project contingent on what proposals come in. The east parcel is 4.5 acres, cleared and ready to go. Staff sought to issue an RFP with a 60 -day deadline. Ms. Brooks remarked she has received inquiries about the property and she noted a resident from the Heart of Boynton will sit with the five - member panel composed of CRA and City staff members as they review the proposals. Motion Mr. Buchanan moved to approve the attached RFP /RFQ for the Ocean Breeze East site. Mr. Merker seconded the motion that unanimously passed. Ms. Brooks commented the top three proposals will be on the August agenda. F. Consideration of Transfer of 2 Lots in the MLK Corridor from Habitat for Humanity back the CRA Motion Mr. Karageorge moved to approve. Mr. Buchanan seconded the motion that unanimously passed. G. Consideration of Systems Audit and Direct Incentive Funding Agreement ( "DIFA ") Payment Release to Hart Seabourn Cove, LLC for the Property known as Seabourn Cove -Phase I Motion Mr. McCray moved to approve. Mr. Merker seconded the motion that unanimously passed. H. Consideration of Bus Shelter and Temporary Easement Agreement between the CRA and PRH Boynton Beach Motion Mr. Merker moved to approve. Mr. McCray seconded the motion. 18 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, Florida May 13, 2014 Vice Chair Casello inquired how much it would cost to maintain the shelter. Ms. Brooks responded it may need to be painted in a few years. The shelter was anodized aluminum so there would be minimal cost. The motion unanimously passed. 1. Consideration of Dates for Budget Meeting Ms. Harris reviewed the dates for the budget meeting. After brief discussion, there was consensus to meet on Thursday, August 7 ", from 6 to 9 p.m. J. Discussion of Code Compliance in the CRA District Mr. Karageorge added this item to the agenda for discussion at the Budget Workshop. He formerly sat on the Code Compliance Board and was appalled at the current lack of enforcement. There were major changes made and a Special Magistrate keeps tabling everything instead of taking action. Mr. Karageorge looked at the FEC corridor in other areas and it was nice. The FEC corridor in Boynton Beach was a disgrace. He felt selective enforcement was occurring and it was poor. Mr. Karageorge recommended at the budget workshop they have a designated Code Compliance Officer for the CRA District with the same enforcement powers, who was paid by the CRA and was accountable to the Board. K. Discussion of the Woman's Club Mr. Karageorge pointed out the Woman's Club is a nationally registered historic site. It was dwindling in membership, but was a 501(c)3 Corporation having the ability to raise funds and, apply for grants. He proposed a tri- partied agreement be created to repair the building. The first parties would be the City, who would request the Grants Administrator look for grants to help fund, operate and maintain the building, and the Historic Preservation Planner to pursue Historic Grants to help preserve and maintain it. As the third party, he proposed the CRA commit $300K for improvements. He proposed this be discussed at the budget workshop as well. XV. Executive Director's Report: A. New Businesses in CRA District There were no comments on this item. B. Development Projects Update Mr. Karageorge inquired how the grocery store was progressing. Ms. Brooks explained, hopefully the CRA would acquire another lot, which will help bring the project to fruition. This item would be on the next agenda. 19 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, Florida May 13, 2014 VI. Future Agenda Items: A. Report by Lyman Reynolds on the Status of the Lisa Bright vs. CRA Case B. Consideration of a Direct Incentive Funding Agreement with LeCesse Development Group C. IT ILA VII. Adjournment There being no further business to discuss, Chair Taylor properly adjourned the meeting at 9 p.m. Catherine Cherry Minutes Specialist 940519 20