Loading...
Minutes 11-09-16 MINUTES OF THE COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY BOARD MEETING HELD ON WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 9, 2016, AT 6:30 P.M. IN CITY COMMISSION CHAMBERS, 100 E. BOYNTON BEACH BOULEVARD BO YNTON BEACH, FLORIDA Present: Steven Grant, Chair Michael Simon, Interim Executive Director Mack McCray, Vice Chair Tara Duhy, CRA Board Counsel Justin Katz Christina Romelus Joe Casello I. Call to Order Mayor Grant called the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m. ll. Invocation Mayor Grant led the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag. Mr. Katz gave the invocation. III. Roll Call Roll call was taken. A quorum was present. IV. Legal: V. Agenda Approval: A. Additions, Deletions, Corrections to the Agenda Chair Grant pulled item VIII. E B. Adoption of Agenda Motion Mr. Casello moved to approve the agenda as amended. Vice Chair 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 E Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, Florida November 9, 2016 Chair Grant had no disclosures Vice Chair McCray had no disclosures but agreed with the Invocation. His hope was as the Country heals, Boynton Beach would heal as well. He attended the ribbon cutting ceremony of the new dog park. He gave kudos to Mr. Simon for his work at the cleanup as a constituent was impressed with him. He commented Souls to the Polls was an awesome event and he thanked all who participated. Mr. Katz will meet with property owners from Boynton Beach and Federal Highway next Wednesday. He also attended the opening of the dog park and was using the park every day since then. He noted there are people there all hours of the day. He was happy the park was there and he looked forward to finding land on the east side so dog owners there can have a similar experience. Mr. Casello's mother had recently passed and he and his family thanked all for their thoughts, prayers and condolences. Commissioner Romelus had no announcements or disclosures. B. Informational Announcements VII. Announcements & Awards: A. Results of The 5 th Annual Boynton Beach Haunted Pirate Fest & Mermaid Splash Tracy Smith Coffey, Borton Beach CRA Marketing and Business Development Specialist, explained the 5 Annual CRA Pirate Fest was held on October 22 and 23 and was very successful. Last year, the event drew approximately 60K people and this year attendance was estimated at 80K. Forty -six percent of the attendees were between 35 to 54 years of age. Fifty -seven percent were first timers. The event drew attendees from Miami Beach and Orlando. Fifty -five percent came with children 17 years old or less and 7% were people in Palm Beach County while 87% were outside the Boynton Beach area. The estimated economic impact was $1.5 million. Seventy -two percent of people visited local businesses and restaurants before and after the event and 93% planned to spend $50 or more. Sixty -two percent said they would come to CRA community events. Fifty -five percent want to attend future events and 63% of the attendees explained the event changed their perception of Boynton Beach. Families had fun and it was a great event. Mr. Katz went online to see what type of exposure there was on social media and observed there were not a lot of social media postings in real time. He asked if there was a plan in place to ensure they are posting regular updates so people who were not aware of the event could view pictures. Ms. Smith -Coffey explained they have a social 2 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, Florida November 9, 2016 media campaign on Facebook, the Boynton Beach CRA Facebook page and the Boynton Beach Haunted Pirate Fest and Mermaid Splash page. Staff was issuing continuous blasts on Facebook and tweeting. Christopher Burdick was handling Instagram to cover the social media. Vice Chair McCray thanked the CRA for changing the street banners. He picked up fallen banners and brought them to the office, but noted City employees in City vehicles did not. He met with Mr. Simon and asked when the banner on the side City Hall would be removed. Ms. Smith -Coffey explained the CRA was in process of producing a same size holiday banner and they wanted to swap banners at the same time to save money. Vice Chair McCray suggested that he be kept informed. He gave kudos to staff. Chair Grant attended both days of the event and brought his parents on Saturday. He led the parade and it was noted there were many dance troupes, the YMCA, and the high school baton twirlers. B. 2016 FRA Awards Ms. Smith -Coffey explained the CRA won two awards at the Florida Redevelopment Association (FRA) Conference. The award dinner was held on October 13th at the Hilton in Orlando. This year, the CRA won the award for most outstanding rehab for the Healing Hearts project and the Cultural Enhancement Award for the Boynton Beach Haunted Pirate Fest and Mermaid Splash. She advised the CRA had a table at the breakfast the next day and many people from other cities were very impressed with the Healing Heart project combining two buildings into one. There were also a lot of inquires about the Pirates Fest. They had the best table_ at the breakfast. Commissioner Romelus agreed. C. Music on the Rocks Mercedes Copans, Marketing Events and Economic Development Assistant, explained the CRA kicked off the Music on the Rocks season in conjunction with Pirate Fest. Gold Dust Lounge and Grinder Nova performed and there was a great turnout with a lot of families. The next event will be held on Friday, November 18th at 7 p.m. featuring String Theory, a band that plays rock, reggae, classic pop and more. Food and beverages will be available for purchase from the Food Truck Invasion and Potions in Motion. D. Movies in the Park Ms. Copans advised the CRA kicked off the Movies in the Park last Friday with Frozen. Families were delighted with the movie and youth danced under the stars. No movie was planned for December due to the pending holiday events. The next movie will be viewed January 6 at 7 p.m. 3 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, Florida November 9, 2016 E. Holiday Events Ms. Copans reviewed the 2016 holiday events. The 46 Annual Holiday Tree Lighting Concert will be held on December 2 nd on Ocean Avenue at 5:30 p.m. with the tree lighting at 6:30 p.m. by the Schoolhouse Children's Museum. The concert and festivities will continue till 10 p.m. There will be live music, food and beverages from local vendors, kid's activities and a meet and greet with St. Nick, December 3 rd at 11 a.m. is the 46 Annual Holiday Party. The 45 Annual Boynton Beach and Delray Beach Holiday Boat Parade will be held on December 9 th from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the Boynton Harbor Marina. The parade kicks off at the Old Key Lime House, traveling through Boynton Beach and finishing at the C -15 Canal in Delray Beach. The CRA is accepting boat registrations. The forms and further information is available at www.catchBoynton.com Activities at the Marina will include live music, children's activities and a visit from Santa Claus. Two Georges will have food and beverages available for purchase and the CRA is partnering with the Marine Toys for Tots who will be collecting toys the night of the event from docks along the parade route. VIII. Consent Agenda: A. Approval of Period Ended Oct. 31, 2016 Financial Report B. Monthly Purchase Orders C. Approval of CRA Board Meeting Minutes Sept. 13, 2016 D. Approval of CRA Board Meeting Minutes Oct. 10, 2016 E. Approval of Legal Changes made to the Economic Development Grants IX. Pulled Consent Agenda Items: E. Approval of Legal Changes made to the Economic Development Grants Chair Grant pulled this item and explained his concern with the item was the 50% additional build out requirement for the interior fagade grant, noting if a business was trying to expand, but could not get the extra 50% space they could not get the grant. He thought the 50% requirement language should be removed so any existing businesses can make their business better. Mr. Simon explained it has been like this since the program started and it is extremely productive for new business or those leaving their current location and moving to a new location in the CRA District. The idea was to be an incentive for new businesses that come in. He acknowledged there are existing businesses that are sized out, that may want to undertake a massive renovation to the interior and is not expanding the square footage by 50% that could benefit from the grant. He thought after having the program with that requirement for the last several years, from a staff level, the change would expand the pool of those that could take 4 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, Florida November 9, 2016 advantage of it even more. Commissioner Romelus asked if there had been prior issues with businesses being sized out. Mr. Simon responded he has not received calls. Ms. Romelus asked if there could be a downside to this. Mr. Simon did not think so. There is a cap and all the other restrictions would apply. Application does not guarantee an award. Vice Chair McCray favored changing the language regarding the 50% as long there was no downside. Motion Vice Mayor McCray moved to approve the language change to remove the 50% requirement. Ms. Romelus seconded the motion. Mr. Katz asked if there were any other criteria that should be added and thought everyone would want to renovate. Mr. Simon explained the requirement is existing businesses have to be in operation for three years or more, which would remain. The financial match requirement is the same. The CRA money will always be under the match portion of the business private investment. He thought if the 50% was removed and increase the years established, it may defeat the purpose that involves interior work. Chair Grant commented there are businesses that are ineligible to receive the grant. There is a requirement if they do not own the building, existing businesses have to have so much time on the lease. Mr. Simon explained the Board can add language that you must be in a lease of up to 5 years remaining or 10 years. Mr. Simon explained the business must be in a multi -year lease. Chair Grant favored businesses being in operation for at least three years and having at least three years remaining on the lease. He also liked the new language for the PACE program which creates incentives for businesses to improve and buy their own building. Vice Chair McCray inquired how much was budgeted for the grant. Susan Harris, Finance Director, explained there is a total of $572K, but $300K was for new business, $272K was allocated for 480 Ocean Avenue and the business at 211 Ocean Avenue, leaving $300K for existing and new businesses. Chair Grant asked if the line item had to be amended and learned it did not. It is a pool of funds that is available on a first come first serve basis Chair Grant restated the motion as approval of the item removing the 50% build -out requirement for existing businesses of three years and including a minimum of three years remaining on the lease. Ms. Romelus noted the item indicated a business have a minimum of two years and learned that pertained to a new business that just signed a lease and is opening. The three years is for existing businesses that want to improve and have some secure time on the back end of their lease. The CRA only supplies grants to new businesses that have just signed a multi -year lease not a year to year lease. 5 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, Florida November 9, 2016 Chair Grant asked if the Board wanted to use two years for new and existing businesses. Vice Chair McCray favored keeping it at two years. Mr. Casello asked what the average lease period was and learned on average, it was a minimum of three years and a maximum of five. Mr. Simon clarified the CRA requires a new business to be in a multi -year lease with a minimum of two years remaining. The discussion was how much time should be left on the lease for an existing business applying for the grant. The existing business had to expand by half its space, so they have either effectively relocated to a new space with a new lease that is long enough to warrant the investment or they have expanded with their existing lease by adding more space as extended. Attorney Duhy explained the language is on the first page of the agenda item defining new and existing businesses. The proposal is to add a clause in the definition to existing businesses to say an existing business means a company that has been in operation within the CRA District for a minimum of two years at the time of the application and add a clause to read: and has at least two years left on its lease. Clause number five, eligibility requirements, would be removed and any other remaining coinciding clauses. The language would specify two years and remove the 50% expansion for existing businesses Vote The motion unanimously passed. Motion Vice Chair McCray moved to approve the remaining Consent Agenda items. Ms. Romelus seconded the motion that unanimously passed. X. Information Only: A. Public Comment Log Chair Grant read the items. B. Marketing and Business Development Campaign Vice Chair McCray queried if the CRA was receiving a return on investment from the campaign and learned they were C. CRA Advisory Board Agenda — Nov. 3, 2016 D. Minutes — CRAAB Meeting — Oct. 4, 2016 6 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, Florida November 9, 2016 XI. Public Comments: (Note: comments are limited to 3 minutes in duration) Lynn Simmons, Splashdown Divers, 100 NE 6 th Street, Unit 108, has a business in the Marina for 35 years, thought the work occurring at the Marina will be beautiful, but complained it was devastating to the businesses there. There is zero foot traffic because businesses have been blocked off and the public cannot walk by the Marina and see the boats available for charters. She commented her business was significantly impacted. She understood it would be some time before the work is done. The Dive shop business was removed, her dive boat was moved and people think she is out of business. Discussion followed what could be done to assist Ms. Simmons during construction. Mr. Simon explained they could provide directional signage. But noted the drive aisle is open and vehicles can drive in front of the slips and unload in front of the boats. The drive isle had been closed for a few weeks and access was through certain spaces in Two Georges Valet lot to allow for loading and unloading. The CRA also hired a service to help find spaces for the vehicles and assist individuals to get to the vessel. Mr. Casello asked if a walkway could be designated. Mr. Simon agreed to contact Collage. and work with them to find a better defined public access. Work will be at least another 45 days. Collage uncovered numerous issues such as pre - existing sidewalks, a helical pier and seawalls that caused delays. Additionally, work must be done to coincide with the tide. Mr. Simon explained the CRA had limited knowledge of what pre - existed. Mr. Katz asked if this would lead to any additional costs to the CRA and learned it would not exceed the contingency for the project. Mr. Simon explained staff was able to offset the cost of some of the work with FPL. Staff anticipated the removal of a transformer, which cost about $20,000 to move and then learned FPL would not move the transformer. Staff was trying to make adjustments through existing line items that will not be used. The helical pier issue would not affect contingency significantly and the goal of Collage is to do the project at minimum cost. Chair Grant asked if "Open during Construction" signs could be used and Mr. Simon responded they could. Vice Chair McCray thought staff should meet with Lynn Simmons. Chair Grant agreed. Susan Oyer, 140 SW 27 Way, thought the Pirate Fest was amazing and suggested ashtray containers be used. She asked if the City Commissioners would consider taking shifts, manning the booths as she did not see any City Commissioners at the booths. She also suggested a list of the bands and performance times be posted at each stage, especially the band on opening night on Friday. She thanked Mr. Katz for his comments as there were little to no tweets on the City's Twitter account. She thought most people did not know the difference between the CRA and the City and she suggested events should be on the City's and the CRA's Twitter feed. Movies in the Park was outstanding, but she pointed out no one from the City knew what time the movies started as nothing was on the City website. She called the CRA and left a 7 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, Florida November 9, 2016 message, noting there was a recorded message about the Pirate Fest but nothing about the Movies. Chair Grant commented there were photos on the hashtag Boynton Beach Pirate Fest and learned Ms. Oyer had posted most of the photographs. Ms. Romelus also pointed out she had volunteered at the Pirate Fest on Saturday Reverend Bernard Wright, 713 NW 2 nd Street, loved the Souls to the Polls event and requested a copy of the Community Benefits Agreement. He explained as a follow up to the last meeting, he wanted to be part of the discussion regarding the acquisition of 416 E. MILK Jr. Boulevard and was advised he could make comments when the item is heard. Reverend Wright explained Clifford Bell wanted to attend the meeting, but he was not in a good mind set at the moment regarding the CRA property where the Police Department has created a substation. He felt it was an overseering situation back in the days of slavery. Individuals do not want to do business with him and they are starting to do the same thing by Cherry Hill. He disagreed the neighborhood policing program was an officer friendly program as it did not help to establish a dialogue with the citizens because they are furious. He could see the officers chatting and watching people drive in and out and pull over whoever they want to pull over. It was bad for business and for community dialogue. Cosy Joseph, Boynton Beach Sister Cities organization, on behalf of Les Cayes, commented she did not think any country was prepared enough to deal with the devastation from a 150 mile per hour (mph) hurricane moving at nine mph for 11 hours. Knowing Boynton Beach has a relationship with Les Cayes as a Sister City, she appeared to request all keep Haiti in prayers. She was aware there is a S. Florida relief effort and requested all encourage friends to help. Three departments of the country were devastated. Currently, there is a team of doctors in Haiti since October 10 The biggest need is trying to get children back to school and roofs fixed. They are trying to focus on cleaning the city and removing the debris the hurricane left. She explained the best way to help is through financial contributions so goods can be purchased in Haiti in the areas that need them the most. She thanked the Board for the attention. Chair Grant noted he was going to Taiwan and they have diplomatic relations with Haiti. He agreed to go to see if there is anything they can do to help as well. There needs to be a worldwide effort. Ms. Joseph thought Taiwan may be appropriate. She noted the agricultural section was destroyed and there are efforts to rebuild so they can start generating income which is one priority. Ms. Romelus thanked Ms. Joseph and advised she had requested Ms. Joseph speak about Haiti as she has travelled to Haiti personally and witnessed the devastation first hand. Ms. Romelus will also travel to Haiti in December. She had a flyer in the back and commented there are collection bins at City Hail and the Fire Stations. They need medical supplies. They want to help recreate the infrastructure, build homes, help small business owners and teach Haiti how to fish for a lifetime. She thanked those for helping out. No one else coming forward, Public Comments was closed. 8 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, Florida Novembe 9, 2 016 XII. Public Hearing: None XIII. Old Business: A. Consideration of Community Benefits Agreement between the CRA and Ocean Breeze Housing Partners, LP (NuRock Development Partners, Inc.) for the Ocean Breeze East Project in the Heart of Boynton. Tabled 10/10/16 Mr. Katz explained the individuals trying to develop the property are going through a number of issues including land acquisition and there are still some unresolved issues. He thought the item should remain on the table as it was not time sensitive. Ms. Romelus agreed. She spoke with Mr. Simon about letting the CRA Advisory Board create a Community Benefits Agreement (CBA) template. It would always be available to the Board for possible development. This could be discussed when hearing item 15. Mr. Casello asked if the agreement would be City -wide or CRA specific. Chair Grant suggested using best practices. He noted the CRA Advisory Board works for the City and the CRA and could be the go between. He suggested anyone wanting to be part of the CBA attend the CRA Advisory Board. Attorney Duhy explained Legal drafted and revised a CBA that can be used in the future to make sure the appropriate protections and parties are contracted. She would advise any agreement the CRA Board is contemplating, including a CBA, would come through the Legal Department, but had no issue to submit to the Advisory Board, because one of the terms outside of the legal counsel's determination is who the CBA partner would be. The way the issue was addressed in the document is to have the CRA Board choose in each agreement that comes forward to determine who the beneficiary would be. The terms have been drafted and are available for review and consideration. Vice Chair McCray noted there is no copy yet to give to Reverend Wright. He did not want to remove items A and B from the table. Mr. Simon wanted to provide a written update from NuRock at the December meeting. He explained an award is contingent for the project and the CBA has to be ready for closing. He thought the public might benefit from having something from the developer's perspective. Chair Grant wanted to send it to the CRA Advisory Board because the Coalition of Clergy is not a legal entity. If they want another community advocate they should be a legal entity that works with the Boynton Beach Faith -Based Community Development Corporation. Vice Chair McCray noted the Coalition is processing the paperwork. B. Consideration of Community Benefits Agreement between the CRA and Heritage at City View Housing Partners, LP (NuRock Development Partners, Inc.) for the 2.97 Acre Project Site Known as MLK, Jr. Tabled 10/10/16 This item was not addressed. 9 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, Florida November 9, 2016 C. Consideration of Search Firms for Hiring a CRA Executive Director. Mr. Simon explained this item was to search out individual executive search firms and provide proposals to the Board. The first condition of review for staff was to determine if the cost exceeded procurement for just written proposals and not utilizing an RFP /RFQ. That condition was satisfied. The proposals that were requested were from Colin Baeziger & Associates, Slavin Management Consultants and the Mercer Group, Inc. The proposals were included in the meeting back up as was the fees and timeframe. Mr. Simon provided a brief summary of basic information. The firms are all nationally recognized and the prices ranged from $15,700 to $24,000 He and the City Manager thought the firms were qualified and the City Manager and Collin Groff, Assistant City Manager - Public Services, sent executive search firms they used in the past. He commented CRA Executive Directors are not easy to find. Mr. Simon did not have direction whether the firms should be present to make a proposal. Vice Chair McCray thought they should appear in case they have questions. Chair Grant agreed and liked that the firms worked for the County and City in the past. He did not think there was too wide a difference between a City Manager and a CRA Executive Director. Mr. Katz asked if presentations would add another month to the timetable. Mr. Simon explained they could make presentations in December and the Board could interview and select a firm at the meeting, requesting they submit a formal contract that would be reviewed by Legal after the selection. Vice Chair McCray did not see an urgency, and wanted to take time to do it right. Mr. Simon explained he only contacted the three firms recommended by the City. There was agreement Mr. Simon would bring the three applicants to the next meeting and did not rank the firms. D. Consideration of Draft RFP for Agency Management Firms. Chair Grant explained this item was different than the prior option that the CRA was hiring a company and they will chose an executive director from their staff. Mr. Simon agreed. The Board could reject, negotiate or specify any number of conditions. He did not know if the Board wanted a full - service management firm to handle all operations, and wrote the RFP for a management firm to provide their services and the executive director aspect. Another option is to manage the Agency while retaining employees or their own staff. He explained the RFP can be customized. Mr. Casello commented during the initial discussion, the Board wanted all options available. David Katz, 67 Midwood Lane, commented the idea of an agency management firm is a horrible idea. He did not think the CRA should waste their time because they draw up 10 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, Florida November 9, 2016 contracts and the Board would lose total control. He commented the Board needs to find someone who has not been here before and make them the CRA Executive Director. He thought dealing with a management firm was a waste of time. Chair Grant enjoys working with CRA staff and it would be difficult just hiring a director from a management company without using their staff. He favored just hiring a director and not hiring a company to handle the entire management of the CRA because the Board would lose a lot of autonomy because they would look to maximize their profits. Mr. Casello wanted all cards on the table to see what they offer and all the options. Bryan Fitzpatrick, 409 NE 1 St Street, asked what the urgency was to hire an Executive Director when there is an Interim Director. He pointed out Ms. LaVerriere was the Interim City Manager for a long time. There are a lot of projects occurring. He thought the Agency would be going back to square one and suggested giving Mr. Simon time in the position. Chair Grant explained Mr. Simon was doing twice as much work and they want to see all options available. Mr. Fitzpatrick agreed with David Katz and did not favor using a management agency. Susan Oyer, 140 SE 27 Way, agreed with Messrs. Katz and Fitzpatrick. She favored using a specialty firm, but thought they should only search for a Director. She also favored Mr. Simon as the Executive Director as he has been in the City for a long time. She did not want to rush the process. Woodrow Hay, 427 NW 5 th Avenue, agreed with what was said by David Katz and thought they should stay with Mr. Simon until they find the right candidate. He noted they are companies that are for profit, and there are a lot of avenues and motives. He favored sticking with what they have until they find the right mix. Reverend Nathaniel Robinson, III, Greater St. Paul AME Church, 315 MILK Jr. Boulevard, agreed with the prior comments. He thought if it was not broke then it should not be fixed. He thought there would be a conflict of interest, to do a contract with an outside agency to bring in just one person to add to CRA staff. He thought someone from the area who has a love for the area was good and he gave his vote of confidence to Mr. Simon. Vice Chair McCray recalled Mr. Casello wanted to go for a management firm, but commented he was not in favor of getting a management firm to bring in their teams. He wanted to get a CRA Director and as long as Mr. Simon kept doing his job, he was satisfied. Mr. Casello clarified he wanted to view all the options to look at. Chair Grant asked for a motion to approve an RFP. Attorney Duhy explained she needed direction about the timing as contained in the meeting backup regarding the tentative schedule. Mr. Katz agreed with Mr. Casello as he was open to any option and was not in favor of any one in particular. Although he was satisfied with Mr. Simon, he favored the RFP and synching up the time table. 11 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, Florida November 9, 2016 Chair Grant wanted a motion to approve the RFP and a second motion to approve as stated or with any amendments. Motion Mr. Casello moved to draft an RFP for an agency management firm. Mr. Katz seconded the motion. Roll call was taken. The motion failed 2 to 3 (Chair Grant, Vice Chair McCray and Ms. Romelus dissenting.) Ms. Romelus attended the FRA Conference and spoke to a potential management firm. She did not feel one way or another about them and did not feel this was the direction the Board needed to go in. She favored looking for a CRA director individually. E. Consideration of Appointment to the Evaluation Committee as Specified in the Cottage District Site Request for Proposals and Qualifications. Mr. Simon explained this item was to appoint an evaluation committee. The CRA includes a paragraph that discusses how the RFP will be evaluated. Who evaluates the proposal was not as specific in the RFP language as this one was, as it indicated the Board would appoint individuals. He thought the Board had the option to change the conditions of the RFP. Mr. Simon provided five names for review at the discretion of the Board. Mr. Simon asked about the criteria used for the five individuals for the Committee. Mr. Simon felt they encompassed the various aspects of a development review. Robert Pollack, is Vice Chair of the CRA Advisory Board and a resident; Amanda Bassiely, City Planner, spent time consolidating the CRA plan; Jim Williams from AW Architects; Mark Karageorge, a resident who is involved with the Heart of Boynton; and Mike Rumpf, a long -time resident of the HOB who participated in City activities. He commented this is a project that developers may not feel comfortable with at this time. Chair Grant asked if they are creating their own standards, and learned they were not as they are in the CRA plan and design guidelines. Vice Chair McCray questioned if they agreed to serve and learned they did. David Katz, 67 Midwood Lane, asked if Mr. Pollack lived in the HOB or in the CRA. Mr. Simon thought he lived in the HOB. Mr. Katz advised he did not and questioned why there is a need for an evaluation committee. They have a CRA Advisory Board and it would add another level of review. He understood Jim Williams, Amanda Bassiely and Mr. Rumpf serving on the Committee, but not Mr. Pollack, since he's already on the Advisory Board, or Mr. Karageorge, as he does not live in the HOB. He suggested replacing Messrs. Pollack and Karageorge with two HOB residents. He asked if the Board member from that District was afforded the opportunity to provide input as far as choosing someone from the HOB.. 12 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, Florida November 9, 2016 Chair Grant commented they could have more than five members, they could have seven. (Ms. Romelus left the dais at 8:03 p.m.) Vice Chair McCray commented he was not asked to suggest a member, but trusted what Mr. Simon suggested and if they need to increase the Committee to seven members, he offered the public find someone who is willing to serve. (Ms. Romelus returned to the dais at 8:06 p.m.) Chair Grant thought Warren Adams, Historic Resource Preservation Planner, should be included. Susan Oyer, 140 SE 27 Way, liked a seven - member Board and had no problem with any of the suggested individuals except for Ms. Bassiely as she felt she was not publically oriented and did not listen to the public. She also liked including more people from the area. Reverend Wright advised he is always available when establishing a better Boynton. Mr. Casello explained the CRA has the CRA Advisory Board and he would be comfortable with an Advisory Board review. Motion Vice Chair McCray moved to approve with two more members, Reverend Bernard Wright and Warren Adams. There was agreement they will check with Mr. Adams and if he was not interested, there would just be six members. Ms. Romelus commented an odd number would be a tie breaker. Chair Grant explained with an even number a super majority vote is needed. The RFPs are due back on November 16 and would return to the Board on December 6 This is not designed to be consensus building. It is individual evaluations and rankings. Mr. Simon asked if the Board wanted to assign the review of the responses to the Advisory Board as well. Commissioner Casello reiterated there would be duplication. Vice Chair McCray commented no one could better represent the area than the individuals who live there. Vote Ms. Romelus seconded the motion as stated which passed 3 -2 (Mr. Katz and Mr. Casello dissenting.) 13 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, Florida November 9, 2016 Mr. Simon clarified the Evaluation Committee will conduct the review. The question was if the Board wanted the Advisory Board to review the item or skip the item. Chair Grant wanted the CRA Advisory Board to make the selection based on the Evaluation Committee criteria. ` Motion Ms. Romelus moved to approve the CRA Advisory Board to make a recommendation based on the Evaluation Committee's criteria. Mr. Katz seconded the motion for discussion. Mr. Katz pointed out now there is a seven - member Evaluation Committee that will conduct a review, then a seven- member CRA Advisory Board and then to a five member CRA Board. He thought the possibility for conflicts was high and it, undermined the point of the Evaluation Committee. Chair Grant agreed noting there is a CRA Advisory Board member on the Evaluation Committee. There was agreement the Advisory Board would not make a recommendation. The evaluation will come forward to the Board. Ms. Romelus rescinded her motion. (Was there ever a vote on the motion ? ? ?) F. Consideration of Second Amendment to the Purchase and Development Agreement for 211 E. Ocean Avenue. Mr. Simon explained the architectural firm handling the design and construction documents and the permit application for this project was trying to meet the deadlines in the contract. More time was needed regarding the engineering and the mechanicals as it relates to requirements for historic structures in order to meet the Codes and design standards of the Building Department. Motion Ms. Romelus moved to approve. Mr. Casello asked if an extension was previously given and learned one was. Chair Grant noted the request was to extend the deadline to December 29 and he proposed it be approved for December 22 because staff would have the opportunity to review it the week before instead of afterwards. He thought they were asking for too much time. By shortening the time by a week, they would understand they may not be able to get a third renewal. 14 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, Florida November 9, 2016 Mr. Simon mentioned Mr. Williams had a scheduling contract, but anticipated submitting it next week. He did not want to be out of the contract guidelines. Motion Mr. Casello moved to grant the 30 day extension from November 14. Ms. Romelus seconded the motion that passed 4 -1 (Vice Chair McCray dissenting.) G. Consideration of First Amendment to the Purchase Agreement with Kim Newton to extend the Closing Date for 120 NW 11th Avenue (Model Block). Mr. Simon explained there are a few title issues. In order to be in compliance, the extension is needed. The closing date is November 18 which extends her occupancy to January 17 Motion Vice Chair McCray moved to approve an extension to November 18 Mr. Katz seconded the motion that unanimously passed. XIV. New Business: A. Discussion and Direction for the Potential Acquisition of 416 E. MLK, Jr. Blvd. Mr. Simon explained the CRA has been approached by the landowner at 416 MLK Jr. Boulevard and Mr. Simon was inquiring if the Board wanted to acquire the property. The appraisal was for $742,000 and the property was a church having a general /commercial land use designation on the eastern node of MLK Jr. Boulevard as identified in the CRA plan. The building is approaching foreclosure and staff had spoken with the lender. He does not have a price or terms that are acceptable other than a lease back from the property owner to continue using the property while the CRA is determining its redevelopment potential. Mr. Simon tried to obtain an actual sales price from him, but was unable to do so. He was certain the owner would want above the appraised value. Vice Chair McCray understood if the CRA purchased the church, the church wanted to lease the church for three years rent free. Vice Chair McCray noted when the CRA was considering development for MLK Jr. Boulevard, the church approached them. Mr. Simon explained the land under the church was exchanged by the City for property the owner had on the Model Block. They moved the Church to its current location and the City obtained the model block lots. Vice Chair McCray asked how much the lot was worth at the time of the exchange. Mr. Simon agreed to look up the lots. The CRA has $1.162 million for MLK, but Mr. Simon explained $1 million was pledged to NuRock for 15 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, Florida November 9, 2016 the local contribution for the application for tax credits and pointed out the funds would have to come from another source. Mr. Simon explained if it is a property the Board wanted to acquire, the Board could use funds for the dog park property, Boynton Beach Boulevard or maybe there was a way to spread out acquisition and not have to expend the full amount this year. Mr. Casello commented the church is nearing foreclosure and there are no negotiations ongoing. It was his experience the last time the Board let the church use the building rent free, they rented it out. He preferred Mr. Simon negotiate a price versus paying appraised value. Vice Chair McCray asked how long the church was there. Mr. Simon responded about seven years including construction. He did not want to jump on the matter and Mr. Katz agreed even if it is a good price. It is a fairly new building that is not blighted. He did not want to compete with the private sector. If someone sees value in the property, they can buy it and the CRA might get a better deal in the future. The building is new and the CRA has no plan for the property. If acquired, the Board would have to come up with something appropriate for the property. He did not support acquisition of the property. Bernard Wright, 713, NW 2 nd Street, commented that it was his family's property before it was taken from them and his family disbursed and it is historic. He pointed out they have not been compensated for the property, and thought in the future he would ask for compensation. His uncle purchased the property and he asserted the property was taken underhandedly and illegally. Mr. Simon spoke with Pastor Lyons several times and met recently. Reverend Wright thought Pastor Lyons should have been present. He did not want anything to be done with the property and asked to be kept informed. The home that was there previously welcomed all who came across the railroad tracks. Mark Karageorge, 240A Main Boulevard, asked if Lis Pendens was filed which is the first step in the foreclosure process and learned it was not. He suggested if it was filed, the best way to handle the matter is to let it go through the foreclosure process. Since the process has not started, someone else can buy the building. Chair Grant requested tabling the matter for 90 days to see if the bank does anything. Mr. Katz asked about the normal time period for initiation of a foreclosure to a point a potential buyer would enter the process. Chair Grant commented a potential buyer could come anytime, but it was something they want to keep on the radar. Motion Vice Chair McCray moved to table the item for 90 days. Mr. Katz seconded the motion that unanimously passed. 16 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, Florida November 9, 2016 B. Discussion and Direction Regarding the Disposal of CRA Owned Properties Located at E. MLK, Jr. Blvd. and NE 9th Avenue to St. Paul AME Church of Boynton Beach. Mr. Simon explained the CRA was approached by Pastor Robinson regarding expansion of his church to the location across the street at 315 E. MLK Jr. Boulevard. The CRA owns three parcels adjacent to the property across from the church and Mr. Simon sought direction. Mr. Casello asked about the appraised value. Mr. Simon thought each parcel, based on appraisals for the model block, would be between $35,000 and $46,000, but pointed out the CRA is limited due to the individual size of the parcel. The lots would have to be aggregated with other properties if wanting to build something other than a single - family home. Vice Chair McCray commented the church is going back to where it was before it was rebuilt. It was a wooden structure. Reverend Nathaniel Robinson III, Senior Pastor, 315 MLK Jr. Boulevard, explained the church was the first church in the City of Boynton Beach, constructed in 1892 and founded by Robert and Elizabeth Wells. The original location was on the northeast corner of Ocean Avenue and Federal Highway. In 1922, when the State started to enforce the Segregation Act, the Church was moved to Wells Road, now known as MLK Jr., Boulevard /10 Avenue and placed in the parking lot until 1954, when the church moved across the street to its current location. Pastor Robinson explained the Church is bursting at the seams, holding two services on Sunday. They were out of space and unable to provide all the ministries they want. They want to expand and the parcels abutting the property can be assembled to build something. The Church wants to remain in the neighborhood because they have been there for years. Pastor Robinson explained after the Segregation Law was enforced there were no schools for black youth to attend. Robert and Elizabeth Wells and members of the congregation petitioned the school board for a teacher and congregation members housed and fed the teacher and built the school on Green Street, which later became Poinciana Elementary School, The Community Caring Center was founded out of the Church as well. Pastor Robinson explained the AME organization is an international organization. All the properties are held in trust with the general church. If there is a financial crisis, there is a contingency plan for finances. Statistically, they are one of the fastest growing churches in Boynton Beach, and they tripled their membership in the last three years. Half the parishioners come from out of the area and people will patronize establishments in Boynton Beach. The Church would not do anything until they learned if the CRA would permit the Church to acquire the property. 17 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, Florida November 9, 2016 Mr. Casello asked what the Church would do if the land was conveyed and learned they would build a new church and Church Hall. There would be classroom space and a parking lot. Mr. Casello asked what would become of the current church and learned they planned to keep the church since it was the first Church in Boynton Beach, it should become a historical site and they would use that space as a chapel or youth church office space. Pastor Robinson explained the St. Paul AME Church Pastor would ensure the Church would not lose the project. He noted former Bishop Franklin White was from Boynton Beach, attended Poinciana Elementary School, and some of his family still lives in the area. Woodrow Hay, 427 NW 5 th Avenue, supported the idea. He is a member of St. John Missionary Baptist Church. The churches are sister churches that work together on many projects and it would be an improvement to the community. The property has been sitting vacant for years and is an eyesore. This is an opportunity to enhance the parcel. There would now be many places to house meetings. They could have major events and it can be used for overflow. He requested they consider the request. Mark Karageorge, 240A Main Boulevard, supported Pastor Robinson's proposal and commented it was good that the church already had the one parcel. Mr. Karageorge agreed it was difficult to get in the Church. He had to park on 12 Street and it was so crowded he could not gain entrance. Pastor Robinson has done exceptional community work. Pastor Robinson and the congregation prayed and raised money for the AME church that had the shootings in South Carolina. Pastor Robinson also has led relief efforts in Haiti and there are AME churches in Haiti similar to a Sister City Church. The last aspect is the historical nature of the church and he encouraged due diligence. He thought it prudent to obtain a true market value and then negotiate with Pastor Robinson. Vice Chair McCray applauded the Church for not moving out of the City. Chair Grant inquired if Pastor Robinson spoke to the owners of two vacant lots to the west and learned they had not, but they were interested. Chair Grant noted there is a house on the corner lot and learned it will be part of parking. Mr. Casello asked about the timeline. Pastor Robinson explained he believes they could accomplish the project in three years. Mr. Casello favored the request and asked how many churches were located on MLK Jr. Boulevard and learned there were five. Motion Mr. Casello moved to direct staff to order an appraisal for the "two" properties and negotiate with Pastor Robinson. Vice Chair McCray seconded the motion. Ms. Romelus favored removing blight and saving souls in the process. The motion unanimously passed. 18 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, Florida November 9, 2016 C. Consideration of Purchase and Sale Agreement between the CRA and the Owners of the Property Located at 128 NW 11 Avenue (Model Block). Mr. Simon explained this item was part of the model block project and the City is in the process of obtaining the 30 -foot right of way dedication and 10 -foot easement for development of NW 11 Avenue as part of the model block program. This will be another acquisition for new single - family homes. The CRA would purchase the balance of the property that is not purchased by the City for the roadway improvements for $32,000. Mr. Casello asked if the appraisals done by the City are up to date based on existing sales and learned there were. There are no abutting properties owned by the CRA. Motion Mr. Katz moved to approve. Vice Chair McCray seconded the motion that unanimously passed. XV. CRA Advisory Board A. Reports: 1. 2016 FRA Conference Summary Prepared by CRAAB Chair, Linda Cross It was noted Linda Cross, Chair of the CRA Advisory Board, provided a summary of the report. Ms. Cross learned a lot from the Conference. Ms. Romelus explained she had also attended and learn a lot also. Vice Chair McCray was glad it was beneficial. B. Pending Items: 1. City Services Survey for the CRA 2. Research for a Potential CRA Grant for Job Creation C. New Assignments: 1. Review the 29 Recommendations made in February 3, 2016 Miami -Dade County Grand Jury Report Concerning Affordable Housing and Mismanagement of CRAs Ms. Romelus explained she wanted the CRA Advisory Board to draft or improve the Community Benefits Agreement. Attorney Duhy asked if legal should attend as they will recommend certain clauses to be included. Mr. Simon will also present other best practices documents and formulate suggestions from them. Staff could also request the Overtown CRA make a presentation. There was consensus to do so. XVI. Future Agenda Items: A. Responses to Cottage District RFP /RFQ 19 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, Florida November 9, 2016 B. Discussion of District Clean Program C. Disposition of 222 N. Federal Highway XVII. Adjournment Mr. Simon wanted to let the Board know the CRA staff is working very hard. The Board had previously approved an administrative assistant position. He is interviewing and the budget for the position was approved at the minimum salary without any type of negotiation. Staff commented the position is under at the minimum level and he requested the ability to float the salary up to a maximum of $40K. There is no budgetary impact on the CRA as the position was vacant for the last three months and the incremental cost whether it is $1,500 or $5,000 will actually save $3,500 by the end of the year. He sought flexibility to be able to offer more than the minimum if a candidate is exceptional. Vice Chair McCray favored giving the flexibility. Staff was also advertising for a Special Events Coordinator position. There was consensus to do so. Motion Vice Chair McCray moved to adjourn. Commissioner Romelus seconded the motion that unanimously passed. The meeting was adjourned at 9:03 p.m. Catherine Cherry Minutes Specialist 20