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Minutes 04-18-17MINUTES OF THE REGULAR CITY COMMISSION MEETING HELD ON MONDAY APRIL 18, 2017, AT 6:30 P.M. IN COMMISSION CHAMBERS, CITY HALL 100 E. BOYNTON BEACH BOULEVARD, BOYNTON BEACH, FLORIDA PRESENT: Steven B. Grant, Mayor Justin Katz, Vice Mayor Mack McCray, Commissioner Christina Romelus, Commissioner Joe Casello, Commissioner 1. OPENINGS A. Call to Order - Mayor Steven B. Grant Chair Grant called the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m. Invocation Commissioner McCray gave the invocation Lori LaVerriere, City Manager Jim Cherof, City Attorney Judith A. Pyle, City Clerk Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag led by Commissioner Romelus Commissioner Romelus led the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag. Roll Call City Clerk Pyle called the roll. A quorum was present. Agenda Approval: 1. Additions, Deletions, Corrections Mayor Grant requested to add No Smoking signs on Boynton Beach Oceanfront Park to new business. 2. Adoption Motion Commissioner McCray moved to approve as amended. Commissioner Casello seconded the motion. Meeting Minutes City Commission Boynton Beach, Florida April 18, 2017 Vote The motion unanimously passed. 2. OTHER A. Informational items by Members of the City Commission Vice Mayor Katz had no disclosures. Commissioner McCray attended a wake for Tom Kaiser's wife, attended the Veteran Ceremony at Veterans Park, and attended a service at Journey's Church on Easter. He witnessed the dedication of two homes from Habitat for Humanity in District II and met with representatives of the Shoppes of Boynton. Commissioner Romelus attended the Easter Egg-Stravaganza with her family and praised Recreation and Parks staff for a great event. She also attended the Firefighters Chili Cook -off and Fishing Tournament. Commissioner Casello attended the Veterans Celebration of the100th Anniversary of WW I and the Boynton Beach Firefighters Chili Cook -off and Fishing Tournament. He served as a judge noting the event proceeds benefit the Kiwanis Club. He gave a shout out to Local 1891. Mayor Grant attended a Chamber of Commerce event at Gulfstream Goodwill, a tree planting at Intracoastal Park for Arbor Day, the 100th Anniversary of WW I on the 7th, and toured the City with the new Economic Development Coordinator. Later on in the day, he judged the Lawapoloza for the Gulfstream Boy Scouts. On April 8th, he attended the "Play for Pink" golf event, and spoke at the Casa Costa's board meeting on the 12th. On the 17th, he spoke with INCA regarding group homes. He attended the Dedication of Habitat for Humanity homes on NW 10th and MLK Jr. Boulevard on the 18th, noting the Model Block Program, which was ' funded through Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds, looked good. He announced he received correspondence from the U.S. Congress of Mayors indicating CDBG funds, of which the City receives $500,000, may be eliminated. He will forward a copy of the correspondence to staff in an attempt to keep the program intact. He was at Ocean Ridge and noted the Ocean Avenue Bridge painting project was forthcoming and there may be a lane closure starting next Monday. The bridge will be closed for 6, to 10 evenings,. They will post signs advising of the closure and commented the project is anticipated to last 120 days. The next Mayor's Town Hall meeting will be held May 1, 2017, at South Tech Academy Media Center, 1300 SW 30th Avenue. 3. ANNOUNCEMENTS, COMMUNITY & SPECIAL EVENTS & PRESENTATIONS 2 Meeting Minutes City Commission Boynton Beach, Florida April 18, 2017 A. Proclaim April 24, 2017 as Armenian Genocide Day. Arsine Kaloustian will be present to accept the proclamation. Mayor Grant read the Proclamation declaring April 24, 2017 as Armenian Genocide Day. Arsine Kaloustian, Chair of Armenian Genocide Commemoration Inc., explained they are a 501(c)(3) non-profit dedicated to public education and awareness of the 1915 Armenian Genocide event, when Turkey eliminated 1.5 million ethnic Armenians. She noted the event occurred 102 years ago, but commented just before Hitler invaded Poland he wanted to mercilessly send to death all men, women and children of Polish derivation. She commented any ethnic group could be subject to the same, and others were such as the Rwandans, Ukrainians, and Cambodians. She commented, speaking about atrocities can halt them, but if silent, there is a free for all. She thanked the Mayor and City Commission for recognizing the Armenians and commented it is important to speak out against these atrocities as it means a great deal to their community. B. Proclaim April 22, 2017 as Earth Day. Glenda Hall, Forestry and Grounds Manager, present to accept the Proclamation. Mayor Grant read the Proclamation declaring April 22, 2017, as Earth Day Glenda Hall, Manager, Forestry and Grounds, thanked the City Commission for recognizing Earth Day. A celebration was scheduled for Saturday, April 22t' at the Links Golf Course. She noted the Links is an Audubon designated course and the staff is proud of the birds and wildlife. There will also be a concert with food available from 5 p.m. - 7 p.m. for all to attend. Commissioner McCray praised her staff. Ms. Hall advised they planted two Royal Poinciana trees, two Live Oak trees and 18 Sable Palms at Intracoastal Park. C. Proclaim the month of April 2017 as Florida Water Professionals Month. Philip G. Donovan will be accepting the proclamation on behalf of Florida Water & Pollution Control Operators Association. Mayor Grant read the Proclamation declaring the Month of April 2017 as Florida Water Professionals Month. The incoming State Publicity Chairman explained their main goal is to educate water utility workers to produce good, safe, potable water and waste water and they volunteer to teach good methods for safe water throughout Florida. He noted America lost three U.S. presidents in the White House because they drank bad water and he underscored the importance of having safe water for all to drink. He invited all to visit their website at FWPCOA.org. to view a movie they produced about what utility workers do: He introduced Pat Lyles, Assistant Chairman of Region 6; Jessica Hill, Secretary/Treasurer-Elect and Education Chair for the region; Dennis Goodwin, 3 Meeting Minutes City Commission Boynton Beach, Florida April 18, 2017 incoming Director; and Mr. Rico who works with the Florida Water Quality Association Publicity Chair Statewide. i Colin Groff, Assistant City Manager, explained they are proud of the City's operators who are highly trained and licensed. He noted the Department uses a lot of the Association's courses to train the City's operators to make the water and wastewater plants safe. He recognized these volunteers work 24/7 every day of the year, to make water safe. David Roland, Lead Operator for the East Water Treatment Plant and Leon Liberus, Chief Operator for the East and West Water Treatment Plant was also present. C. Announcement by South Tech CEO and President, Mr. Jim Kidd and Director of Schools, Jay Boggess regarding the school's successful efforts in training for trades through a new Pre -Apprentice program. In addition, an announcement will be made in regards to upcoming Career Fairs focused on the trade industry. Jay Boggess, Director of Schools for South Tech Academy in Boynton Beach, advised Mr. Kidd, President and CEO, could not be present. Mr. Boggess explained South Tech has been in Palm Beach County since 1976 and they continue to grow. The school is A -rated and has a 96% graduation rate. Their mission is to prepare students for work, higher education and productive citizenship. Students leave the school with industry certifications that allow students to enter the work force and college. They serve 1,000 students at the high school level, 600 at the middle school level and nearly 500 adults through the Palm Beach County school system. He commented .South Tech Academy compartmentalized, but needs the District's support. Their mission is to create a citizen that wants to be part of an economically sustainable City and they pursue their aspirations. They empower students. South Tech Academy partnered with the City to ensure they are a part of what is occurring in the City. The Boynton Beach Short Film Festival is a first annual event being held by South Tech schools on Thursday. They have over 125 submissions and Mayor Grant and Commissioner Romelus will be present. They partnered with the City on the International Kinetic Art Exhibit and Symposium when 25 students helped create kinetic artwork that was in the Symposium and South Tech Academy handed out water at the Barrier Free 5K Race. South Tech Academy was nominated and made a finalist for a $100,000 grant through Impact 100 through Commissioner Romelus who spoke on the School's behalf and how the school helped change her life and was a catalyst for change.' Eric Messmer, Assistant, Director Adult Educational Programs, spoke about pre - apprenticeship opportunities. In September, they launched three pre -apprenticeship programs in electrical, heating ventilation and air conditioning, and plumbing, Each course is divided into two terms with the first term focusing on safety and regulations, and the second on hands on skills training. There is great earning potential with these .19 Meeting Minutes City Commission Boynton Beach, Florida ril 18, 2017 trades. He noted for 20 years ago the trades were de-emphasized, and they are emerging with great earnings potential. The instructional hours are between 182 and 196 hours depending on the trade. The program is two nights a week from 6 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. and is suitable for adults who already work. At the end of the program, they receive a nationally certified pre - apprentice certificate and no GED or high school diploma is required. The school administers a test to determine the student's level in language and reading skills. Mr. Messmer recognized in public and secondary schools, there is nothing for the tactile learner and South Tech serves that need. This past year, the program, including books, was $665 per student. The school will have to increase the price, but it was an affordable opportunity for those who seek training in a skilled trade. They offer OSHA certification for each student. The first annual Trades Training Expo for recruitment will take place at South Tech Academy, 1,300 SW 30th Avenue on Wednesday, April 26th, from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Participating companies and vendors will arrive at 6 p.m. and the event will open to the general public at 7:30 p.m. for potential adult and students interested in future enrollment. In addition to companies in the named trades that will be present, CareerSource will be present with information regarding financial assistance. The program is a bridge to success. The School will train community members at a good price, build partnerships, and give local companies the opportunity to tour their facilities, meet students in the program, and offer their professional guidance to maximize the effectiveness of the training. There are currently 250 students in the workforce training program and 75 students in the pre -apprenticeship program with about 25 in each of the three trades. 4. PUBLIC AUDIENCE INDIVIDUAL SPEAKERS W ILL BE LIMITED TO 3 MINUTE PRESENTATIONS (at the discretion of the Chair, this 3 minute allowance may need to be adjusted depending on the level of business coming before the City Commission) Mayor Grant noted the Town Square project is within the Cone of Silence and no one should speak about it until the City Commission makes a decision. He has received emails regarding comments for Town Square and explained he would rather have comments during Public Audience and not during selection of the development team. There was consensus comments would be made after the development team is selected. Suzanne Ross, Executive Director, Schoolhouse Children's Museum, announced Saturday, April 22"d, the Museum will hold the 4th Annual Princess and Super Hems Day. This year there will be even more characters, activities and games. Activities will be held inside and outside the Museum and include face painting, Kiss the Frog Prince, Rapunzel's Frying Pan Big Beanbag Toss, Thor's Hammer Throw, Kryptonite Disposal 5 Meeting Minutes City Commission Boynton Beach, Florida April 18, 2017 Challenge, Catch the Villain, a Superhero Obstacle Course, Run the Flash Dash and much more. Ten fictional characters and the City's real super heros, the Firefighters' and Police Officers, will be present. The event takes place from 10 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Tickets are on sale now and at the door. She invited all to the Museum where learning is an adventure Peter Guilluame, 305 SW 5th Avenue, wanted to learn the status of foreign relations for Sister Cities. He looked up Sister Cities and asked if he could get involved with anythinty the City Commission was currently doing. Mayor Grant advised he attended the 60t Anniversary of Sister Cities last year and it is a separate entity. They work with governments from around the world to create cultural, educational and economic exchanges. There is a cultural exchange on April 21St at the Boynton Beach Mall featuring art from around the world and he agreed to provide information to contact the President of Sister Cities. Mayor Grant noted Boynton's other Sister Cities are Qufu, China, Les Cayes, Haiti and Rauma, Finland. Tonyel Shantz, 625 Casa Loma Boulevard, Unit 1502, on behalf of his grandmother, is the daughter of a genocide survivor. He thanked the City Commission for the proclamation commemorating the first genocide of the 20th Century. He commented there are 15,000 Armenians living between Boynton Beach and Miami. They add to the community in many ways. April 24th, is when the Armenian community will commemorate the Ottoman/Turkish atrocities. This year, Holocaust Remembrance Day is also April 24th and communities in Palm Beach County are holding a joint event. He invited all to Boca Raton to watch a film called Denial about holocaust denial. He explained there are 10 stages of genocide; however, Elie Wiesel points out there are 11 stages, with the last stage being when someone kills the memory of the crime, the denial of the crime is completed. The Armenian and Holocaust genocide is the same evil that exists today in ISIS and it is important they all speak up. Cindy Falco-DiCorrado, 316 NW 1St Avenue, thought the City Commission would discuss the Downtown and asked when citizens would see construction progress. Mayor Grant explained it would be discussed later in the meeting. Irwin Cineus, 223 NE 12th Avenue, Community Organizer, asked what was occurring with the 1 Cent Sales Tax monies. He commented residents have been paying the surtax since January and he requested an update. Lori LaVerriere, City Manager, explained they received a check less than a month ago. They have not spent any of the funds and the Oversight Committee has not met. The Assistant City Manager will convene the Oversight Committee to bring them up to date what they will do over the next few years and discuss next year's projects. This year, the City Commission decided to address sidewalks and road painting and those projects are being put together. Mr. Cineus asked if residents will be able to work on the projects. Ms. LaVerriere responded the City hoped to breakdown some of the project to smaller projects to provide opportunities for local businesses to bid on small -sized projects. It is a test program. , A Meeting Minutes City Commission Boynton Beach, Florida April 18, 2017 Mr. Cineus asked about the residential improvement program. Mayor Grant explained it is a CRA program. He commented West Palm Beach has the Welcoming City Resolution and asked about the City's stance on the immigrants, as he has data on how much the immigrants contribute economically. He asked if the City has a similar resolution and learned the City was still looking into it. Commissioner McCray asked how much the first check was. Tim Howard, Assistant City Manager, advised the first distribution received last month was $376,000 for January. Ms. LaVerriere explained it is kept in a dedicated fund for deferred capital improvement projects. The total amount is, on average, $3.2 million for the rest of the year disbursed in monthly installments. Jeff Fengler, Construction Director, Habitat for Humanity South Palm Beach County, thanked the City Commission and staff for the help they give Habitat for Humanity to build new homes in the City. They work in three cities in Palm Beach County and Boynton Beach is by far the City that embraces their mission to create new futures and homes for those in need. He noted later in the meeting, the City is transferring title to four properties to allow them to build four new homes in the City. He thanked the City Commission and invited all to be a part of their organization and be part of their volunteer program to help those less fortunate who need a hand up and not a hand out. Brittany Galli, 306 NE 18t Avenue, explained she is a female co-owner in a tech company startup in Boynton Beach and they handle workforce management solutions for reporting with facilities security and other mobile workforces. They are available to partner with the City and she noted the warm welcome they received. They are working with Broward County Parks and Recreation and would like to give back to community members. She thanked the City Commission for what they are doing locally. Audrey Dance Gerger, owns a two-story double townhouse built in 1927 that is registered as historic at 331 NW 1St Avenue and is now zoned commercial. Last Saturday, she received a package from an attorney indicating the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) would use eminent domain regarding her property, the two homes next to her and the homes in front of her on Boynton Beach Boulevard. There was a sheet showing other impacted areas including the hotel on the corner and she had not heard anything from the City Commission. She contacted Warren Adams, Historic Resource Preservation Planner, who referred her to the City Engineer, who assured her they would start the project in 2022 and they would not purchase for a few years. She inquired how it would affect her if she does decide to sell. Mayor Grant noted FDOT is a State agency and recommended since she received a letter from an attorney, she retain an attorney. Piotr Blass, 113 W Tara Lakes Drive, explained someone broke into his car and he wanted to speak with the Police Chief regarding a joint idea to eliminate crime in that area. He thought the City was in incredible shape having the best Mayor and City Commission. He explained he was running for mayor in 2019 and preparing for the next rA Meeting Minutes City Commission Boynton Beach, Florida April 18, 2017 level. He favors saving the Old High School. His latest plan is to create one of the highest buildings in the world in the center of the City and to create a new City Hall, Police Station and more. The building, which will accommodate the University of Boynton, will be enormous and built through a private/public partnership that will house many businesses and bring great profit to the City. His initial calculations show they will refund property taxes. No one coming forward, Public Audience was closed. 5. ADMINISTRATIVE A. Appoint eligible members of the community to serve in vacant positions on City advisory boards. The following Regular (Reg) and Alternate (Alt) Student (Stu) and Nonvoting Stu (NN Stu) openings exist: Arts Commission: 1 Alt Building Board of Adjustments & Appeals: 1 Reg and 2 Alts Historic Preservation Bd: 4 Regs Motion Vice Mayor Katz moved to nominate Susan Oyer as a regular member. Commissioner Casello and Commissioner McCray seconded the motion. Vote The motion unanimously passed. Motion Commissioner McCray moved to nominate Barbara Ready. Vice Mayor Katz seconded the motion. Vote The motion unanimously passed. Motion Commissioner Romelus moved to nominate Hollis Tidwell. Commissioner McCray seconded the motion. Meeting Minutes City Commission Boynton Beach, Florida April 18, 2017 Vote The motion unanimously passed. Motion Commissioner Casello moved to nominate Cheryl Black. Commissioner McCray seconded the motion. Vote The motion unanimously passed. Library Bd: 2 Alts Motion Commissioner Casello moved to nominate Roger Zona. Commissioner McCray seconded the motion. Vote The motion unanimously passed. Motion Mayor Grant moved to nominate Kimberly Bain. Commissioner McCray seconded the motion. Vote The motion unanimously passed. Recreation & Parks Bd: 2 Alts Senior Advisory Bd: 1 Reg and 2 Alts Motion Mayor Grant moved to nominate Margaret Newton. Commissioner McCray seconded the motion. Vote The motion unanimously passed. Meeting Minutes City Commission Boynton Beach, Florida 6. CONSENT AGENDA Matters in this section of the Agenda are Manager for "Consent Agenda" approval all of the accompanying material to bE subject to staff comments ril 18, 2017 proposed and recommended by the City of the action indicated in each item, with come a part of the Public Record and A. PROPOSED RESOLUTION NO. R17-037 - Assess the cost of nuisance abatement on properties within the City of Boynton Beach. B. PROPOSED RESOLUTION NO. R17-038 - Authorize the City Manager to sign the purchase and sale agreement between the City of Boynton Beach and Boynton Beach Faith -Based Community Development Corporation (BBFCDC), subject to compliance with the provisions contained in Section 163.380(3)(a), Florida Statutes. C. PROPOSED RESOLUTION NO. R17-039 - Authorize the City Manager to sign the purchase and development agreement between the City of Boynton Beach and Habitat for Humanity of South Palm Beach County for the conveyance of City owned vacant parcels of land, subject to compliance with the provisions contained in Section 163.380(3)(a), Florida Statutes. D. PROPOSED RESOLUTION NO. R17-040 - Authorize the City Manager to sign a one (1) year agreement for the total price of $18,720 with option for up to three (3) one year renewals (renewal price of $9,720 annually) with Stone Tablet LLC, d/b/a LaborSoft, for the purchase of an Employee/Labor Relations cloud -based software program. Commissioner Romelus pulled this item and asked how it improves opportunities and if it takes away new jobs. Ms. LaVerriere explained it does not take away jobs and it better manages employees, discipline and labor contracts through software. Motion Commissioner McCray moved to approve. Commissioner Romelus seconded the motion. Vote The motion unanimously passed. E. PROPOSED RESOLUTION NO. R17-041 - Authorize Change Order #1 to McTeague Construction in the amount of $30,100 for the purpose of correcting unknown conditions during Hester Center Lobby Renovations, revising the estimated project costs from $53,150 to $83,230. 10 Meeting Minutes City Commission Boynton Beach, Florida ril 18, 2017 Commissioner McCray pulled this item and commented when he evaluated Ms. LaVerriere, he thought she needed to improve on some items. He announced'this was an area he wanted to see improvement in and he praised her for her updates on projects ongoing in the City. When residents ask him about projects, he is already aware of them. When Ms. LaVerriere made decisions regarding the Hester Center, he thanked her for not waiting. two weeks to bring projects back. Motion Commissioner McCray moved to approve Resolution R17-04. Commissioner Romelus seconded the motion. Vote The motion unanimously passed F. PROPOSED RESOLUTION No. R17-042 - Approve award of RFP No. 015-1210- 17/JMA for Pension Benefit Consultant to Aon Hewitt of Tampa, FL and authorize the City Manager to sign Professional Services Agreement for Pension Benefit Consultant. Services in the amount of $35,000and hourly rates for additional services as requested in the RFP. G. PROPOSED RESOLUTION NO..R17-043 - Authorize the City Manager to sign proposal from M&M Asphalt Maintenance Inc., d/b/a All County Paving of Delray Beach, FL, in the amount of $60,469, plus a 10% contingency in the amount of $6,000 for a total cost. of $66,469 for the purpose of overlaying NE 1st Court (Gateway Blvd. to NE 26th Ave.) utilizing the City of West Palm Beach's Paving Contract #16393 pricing, terms and conditions. The City of West Palm Beach's procurement process satisfies Boynton Beach's competitive bid requirements. H. Approve Task Order No. U=2C-05 to Carollo Engineers, Inc. in accordance with RFQ No. 017-2821-14/DJL, General Consulting Services Contract, Scope Category C awarded by Commission on July 1, 2014 for the provision of professional engineering services in support of the ongoing development of Asset Management systems within the Utility. The estimated cost for the provision of these services is $98,500. I. Approve release of a cash surety in the amount of $20,000 for the CRA's pre- payment of the cost for the final lift of asphalt for the Boynton Beach Blvd. Extension Project J. Requesting Commission approval to make a donation of up to $5,000 from the Federal Forfeiture Law Enforcement Trust Funds to GBDC Entrepreneurship Institute. This donation will be based on matching fund ($1 for $1), which will not 11 Meeting Minutes City Commission Boynton Beach, Florida April 18, 2017 exceed $5,000 and will provide support for the Juvenile Detention Alternatives Initiative (JDAI). K. Requesting Commission approval to make a $5,000 donation to the Bill Tome Foundation for Kids and Families, Inc. from the Law Enforcement Trust Fund to support their 1st annual golf tournament. L. Requesting Commission approval to make a $2500.00 donation to the East Boynton Wildcats Youth Football Program from the Law Enforcement Trust Fund to provide support for registration fees for the spring football season. M. Legal Expenses - March 2017 - Information at the request of the Commission. No action required. N. Accept the written report to the Commission for purchases over $10,000 for the month of March 2017. O. Approve the one-year extension for RFPs/Bids and/ or piggy -backs for the procurement of services and/or commodities as described in the written report for April 18, 2017 - "Request for Extensions and/or Piggybacks" P. Approve the minutes from the Regular City Commission meeting held on April 4, 2017. Motion Commissioner McCray moved to approve the Consent Agenda. Commissioner Casello seconded the motion. Vote The motion unanimously passed. 7. BIDS AND PURCHASES OVER $100,000 A. Approve utilizing the National IPA/City of Tamarac Contract # 13-23R, for office supplies that were awarded to Office Depot; with an estimated annual expenditure of $100,000. The City of Tamarac on behalf of the Southeast Florida Governmental Purchasing Cooperative competitively bid `this and satisfies the City of Boynton's procurement requirements. Motion Commissioner McCray moved to approve. Commissioner Casello seconded the motion. 12 Meeting Minutes City Commission Boynton Beach, Florida April 18, 2017 Vote The motion unanimously passed. B. PROPOSED RESOLUTION NO. R17-044 - Authorize the City Manager to sign amendment 2 to Task Order No. R13-063-09 to CH2M Hill for Boynton Beach Landfill Post -Closure Maintenance Assistance in the amount of $155,904.28. The current task order is $79,142.66, amendment 2 will increase the task order to $235,046.94. Motion Commissioner McCray moved to approve. motion. Vote The motion unanimously passed. Commissioner Romelus seconded the C. Approve -the purchase of new and replacement vehicles as approved in the FY2016/2017 budget in the estimated amount of $504,472.45 by utilizing the following contracts: Florida Sheriffs Association Contract #FSA16-VEL24.0, FSA16-VEH14.0, Florida State Contract #21100000-15- 1 & NJPA Contract #112014 -THC. Motion Commissioner McCray moved to approve. Commissioner Casello seconded the motion. Commissioner McCray noted he was concerned about a new garbage truck that was a lemon. He praised Jeff Livergood, Director Public Works, and Christine Roberts Assistant Director Public Works for handling the matter and continuing to do a good job. He receives fewer complaints about garbage pickup. Mayor Grant also thanked the City Commission for buying its first electric vehicle. kyr-IM The motion unanimously passed. 8. CODE COMPLIANCE and LEGAL SETTLEMENTS - None 9. PUBLIC HEARING 7 P.M. OR AS SOON THEREAFTER AS THE AGENDA PERMITS 13 Meeting Minutes City Commission Boynton Beach, Florida April 18, 2017 The City Commission will conduct these public hearings in its dual capacity as Local Planning Agency and City Commission. A. PROPOSED ORDINANCE NO. 17-010 - FIRST READING - Approve Nurse 1 Future Land Use Map Amendment from High Density Residential (HDR) to Local Retail Commercial (LRC). Agent: Bradley D. Miller of Miller Land Planning, Inc. for CM&J Boynton Properties, LLC, property owner. Attorney Cherof read Proposed Ordinance No. 17-010 by title only on First Reading. Bradley Miller, Miller Land Planning, explained they have items 9 A and C. The presentation covers both items. Item C, the Site Plan, should be tabled. Mr. Miller explained the site is near NE 3rd Street and is a small undeveloped parcel. Nurse 1 is a healthcare provider in the area. The Agency is growing and they found a site in the same proximity as their existing building. The application is the first part, a Land Use Amendment and the second part is the Site Plan which will be postponed to second reading. An aerial of the property was viewed showing the existing site. He discussed with staff the CRA Consolidated Plan and the consistency between the land use plan, the zoning map, and the Comprehensive Plan "Comp Plan". The application takes land with a land use designation of High Density Residential and changes it to Local Retail Commercial consistent with other properties along SW 23rd Avenue. The property is zoned C-2, a commercial designation, which would allow the proposed building. The Site Plan showed a 2,300 square -foot office building with eight parking spaces. There will be five office employees,and the healthcare professionals will be at assignments and rarely come to the office. The hours of operation are typical business hours. A question had been posed at the Planning and Development Board meeting about surrounding areas. Mr. Miller explained the property to the south was non -conforming multi -family. The application will encourage redevelopment of those sites and provide other employment opportunities for City residents. Commissioner McCray asked if they would move and learned they will stay at their present location and expand. The Agency has two components to the business. They will remain in the first building, and expand to the second location with the benefit of administrative staff being nearby, but in a separate building. Commissioner Romelus asked about the business and learned the Agency provides home healthcare. Commissioner Romelus favored the expansion. Motion Commissioner McCray moved to approve. motion. 14 Commissioner Romelus seconded the Meeting Minutes City Commission Boynton Beach, Florida April 18, 2017 City Clerk Pyle called the roll. Vote The vote was 5-0. B. PROPOSED ORDINANCE NO. 17-011 - FIRST READING - Approve amendments to the Comprehensive Plan Future Land Use Element (CPTA 17-001) and related Future Land Use Map Amendments (LUAR 17-004). City -initiated. Attorney Cherof read proposed Ordinance 17-011 by title only on first reading. Hanna Matras, Senior Planner, explained this item has two parts with two separate votes. The first item pertained to the Future Land Use text amendment and then the Comp Plan Future Land Use Map (FLUM). She explained the amendments are sent to the State for review before coming before the City Commission for final adoption. The amendments also include other housekeeping items and adjust policies for consistency with the Coastal Management Element. Last year, the City amended the Coastal Management Amendment and this action contains flood mitigation policies for the Future Land Use Element, (FLUE) and Coastal Management Element. There are updates to other objectives and policies to complete changes in City programs. The focus is the Comp Plan FLUE and FLUM. Ms. Matras explained FLUE and FLUM only affect residential and mix -used classifications. Although they implement the CRA Plan, they require amendments to the FLUM that are not limited to the CRA District. Ms. Matras explained the changes reorganize the residential and mixed-use categories to a coherent scheme and address the differences between the maximum densities permitted by each category by eliminating large density gaps and those that are negligible and not practical. The changes address discrepancies between land use and zoning specifically when discussing low density residential for properties classified as low density residential. She noted about 37% of the properties already have zoning districts that belong to moderate density residential. The amendments are the base to continue implementing the CRA plan, followed by an audit and amendments to the Land Development Regulations to cover zoning as well as future land use regulations for the new zoning district the CRA Plan recommends. Ms. Matras explained the changes will eliminate some future land use categories and add others and staff changed maximum density thresholds of some categories. Ms. Matras reviewed the table. Many properties with low density residential already have zoning with maximum densities between 5.5 and 7.5 dwelling units (dus) per acre which corresponds to moderate density residential and they will be absorbed into the. low density residential classification. 15 Meeting Minutes City Commission Boynton Beach, Florida April 18, 2017 The density difference between medium density residential and high density residential is one dwelling unit. A medium density residential property will increase from 10 to 11 dus per acre and high density will increase from 11 dus per acre to 15. Properties classified as high density residential with a maximum density of 11 dus will be reclassified to medium density residential for single-family residences. Copies of the maps were available in the back of the room. She noted a list of properties with parcel control numbers was attached to the Ordinance if someone wants to check if their property is being reclassified, but she reminded all, the zoning would not change to medium density residential. The mixed use categories included urban mixed use and mixed use core. There is also a category called mixed use suburban. The amendment will eliminate the mixed use category and move properties to mixed use low, medium and high with corresponding densities of 20, 50 and 80 dus respectively. (Commissioner McCray left dais at 7:44 p.m.) Temporarily, there will be no properties classified high residential density on the map. This classification will be 'available for future development based on the CRA's recommendations. Approximately 935 acres were reclassified from moderate density residential to low density and approximately 910 acres were reclassified from high density residential. The mixed use categories included urban mixed use and mixed use core. There is also a category called mixed use suburban. The amendment will eliminate the mixed use category and move to mixed use low, medium and high with corresponding densities of 20, 50 and 80 dus respectively. (Commissioner McCray returned at 7:47 p.m.) There was a large density gap between the current mixed use and mixed use core which makes it difficult for a developer to create a suitable urban design. The City wants to absorb the mixed use suburban into the mixed use framework because mixed use suburban has a density of 20 units per acre which is compatible with mixed use low. The mixed use classified property on the map is being reclassified per the CRA site specific recommendations. All the mixed-use properties changed to mixed use medium or mixed use high are reclassified to higher densities than they currently have; from 40 dus per acre to 60 or 80 dus per acre. The properties north of the Transit Oriented Development (TOD) are being downzoned to low density residential and south of the TOD, Las Ventanas is being reclassified to mixed use high currently known as mixed use core. Mixed use suburban is being reclassified to mixed use low. She noted the only mixed use suburban west of 95 is Boynton Village which will be mixed use low. 16 Meeting Minutes City Commission Boynton Beach, Florida ril 18, 2017 Mayor Grant requested receiving an executive summary for second reading. He asked how the future land use would affect current zoning districts and if someone wants to develop under the new future land use. The main concern is the duplex from low to moderate density residential. He asked if it would go to R-2. Ms. Matras explained those zoning districts from moderate and high are being moved to the new land use specifications. The. higher zoning districts will be available for property owners; however, with the rezoning in the City, they will have to go through criteria per the. Code. A developer could rezone, but the criteria in the land development regulations including compatibility would have to be met Mayor Grant commented the low density will increase, and asked if they applied if they could rezone to R-2 and learned they could not. Amanda Baiesley, Senior Planner, explained although the overall density for future land uses, the same zoning districts will be used that have further caps on the density. She gave an example as if there is an R-2 district with a future land use of moderate, they will be R-2, but with a future land use of low density. The density goes up overall, but the zoning caps it to what currently exists. Ms. Matras explained the low density residential depending on zoning is still for single family homes and does not allow for duplexes. The property can go through the rezoning process to rezone to duplex if the application meets the criteria in the Code. Commissioner Casello appreciated the hard work, but expressed the Commission needs clearer maps for the benefit of the public. Motion Commissioner McCray moved to approve. motion. City Clerk Pyle called the roll Vote The vote was 5-0. Commissioner Casello seconded the C. Approve New Site Plan request for a one-story, 2,338 square foot office building and related site improvements on property located on the east side of SE 3rd Street, one lot north of SE 23rd Avenue. Applicant: Bradley Miller, Miller Land Planning, Inc. (Action on this item should be postponed to correspond with the 2nd Reading of the Land Use Amendment application at the May 2nd Commission meeting) Motion Vice Mayor Katz moved to table. Commissioner Romelus seconded the motion. 17 Meeting Minutes City Commission Boynton Beach, Florida Vote The motion unanimously passed. 10. CITY MANAGER'S REPORT - None 11. UNFINISHED BUSINESS ril 18, 2017 A. Discussion- and direction regarding draft regulations for Medical Cannabis Dispensaries. Andrew Mack, Development Director, reviewed the draft regulations regarding the above. Staff created a licensing aspect and a zoning aspect. The zoning encompassed the Business Tax Receipt and added a new definition to Section 13. 2 and added a new Section 13.29, Medical Cannabis Dispensaries which is the licensing portion. Staff was amending Part III of the LDRs and adding definitions to Chapter I of the Article and added footnote 104 titled, Medical Cannabis Dispensing Facility and added the same title to the Use Matrix. Key zoning recommendations was for the use to be a conditional use in the C-3 zoning district in the Community Commercial District. The facility is required to be on arterial or collector roads only, with a 1,000 feet separation from schools, daycare and parks and 2,500 from another dispensary. Mr. Mack explained the State is still reviewing regulations and legislation could preempt this. The facility was proposed to prohibit a drive through, outdoor display or view of the product and no other related businesses would be allowed within the establishments. The key licensing regulations would set limits regarding how many dispensaries would be allowed in the City based on population. The hours of operation are restricted from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., security measures, such as centrally monitored silent alert systems, full-time armed security personnel during all hours of operation and 24-hour security cameras at all ingress and egress points would be required. Also required would be a drop safe or cash management system, deliveries be made through a rear door overseen by armed security personnel, all business activities being conducted in the building, adequate seating required for all patrons and patients and no consumption of any sort on site. A map of the C-3 zoning districts in the City was viewed. The regulations will support and manage this new industry, create an environment for success, safety and security, and provide a fair and equitable process for licensing. As demand for the product and the population increases, the City can add licenses and be compliant with the Florida amendment that will take into consideration any State regulations that are issued. The next step is a review of the LDR text amendment and use matrix only by the Planning and Development Board on May 23rd, and the item will return to the City Commission on first hearing of both Ordinances on June 20th so they can incorporate changes before the second hearing on July 18tH Meeting Minutes City Commission Boynton Beach, Florida ril 18, 2017 Commissioner Casello complimented staff and wanted the application fee changed from $10,000 to $50,000 as it will be a very profitable business. Additionally, he did not favor the random lottery system used to select the vendor. He wanted the City Commission to choose the vendor. Commissioner Romelus disagreed. Other than dispensing medical marijuana, Vice Mayor Katz asked if anything considered an accessory to the medical use would be prohibited and learned the regulations would allow any device for the medical cannabis, but not paraphernalia. Mayor Grant wanted to know the application fee from other municipalities as did Commissioner McCray. Mayor Grant did not favor the lottery system and asked if there could be a review committee. Mr. Mack explained there is a lot involved in finding a location. The current State regulations only qualified seven growers in the State and a question was posed how many more could be qualified. A lottery will give growers time to select a site if selected. Mr. Mack commented there is a building permit process and the lottery gives them a chance to get started, without investing too much money into a property. He noted the current State regulations require the grower to purchase the property. Mayor Grant commented C-3 properties are usually shopping plazas. He asked if a unit was purchased, if it could be next to a bar/restaurant and learned it could per the zoning. Mr. Mack explained staff would provide a map that defines what parcels would be suitable and can add distance separation requirements from bars. Mayor Grant favored a standalone structure. Mr. Mack thought with the hours of operation being 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., the use would run like a retail establishment. Mr. Mack commented there are outparcels that can be used. Mayor Grant supported all of the growers submitting an application with a non-refundable fee. Mr. Mack explained the current draft does not refund the application fee to unsuccessful vendors and pointed out not all seven growers may be in one area. Because the application would be a conditional use, there is some flexibility in the review process. Commissioner Casello asked what translates the seven growers into knowing how to run a dispensary. Mr. Mack explained it is regulated by the State. The vendors must be seed to sale, have a vertical integration, and show they have the ability to meet the regulations. One bill in the legislature would require the vendor to have a horizontal integration to be more of a distributor. If that occurred, Mr. Mack suggested reviewing the City's regulations and make changes because it could move forward quicker with vendors. Mr. Mack pointed out there are some draft bills, to grow the product and distribute it and then conduct a retail operation. He was unsure of the outcome, but it would give staff time between the first and second reading to amend the regulations or delay the second reading. The draft regulations were modeled from several different municipalities. West Palm had a draft ordinance and staff used language from the City of Hollywood. Mayor Grant asked about the 67,000 population figures and learned there was a study that looked at populations compared to what a dispensary could provide. The study further identified 19 .Meeting Minutes City Commission Boynton Beach, Florida 1 18, 2017 one dispensary for every 67,000 people would make it financially feasible and keep up with production. Mayor Grant noted there are unincorporated areas of Boynton Beach that have over 125,000 people and thought two dispensaries may be needed. Mr. Mack explained they may have dispensaries in Delray and one in Boynton Beach. Mayor Grant understood Boca Raton, Delray Beach and Palm Beach County have moratoriums of six months to a year. Mr. Mack explained the City could allow one dispensary and if approached later on, if there is a need, staff could amend the Ordinance. Mayor Grant and Commissioner Casello wanted to see the business plan. Commissioner Romelus commented the seven growers are State certified, are only allowed to operate in the State, and were already vetted. She noted the City would provide for one vendor per 67,000 people and thought the County would handle the unincorporated areas of Boynton Beach. Mayor Grant wanted to decide who comes into Boynton Beach and wanted to require the business plan on the application. Commissioner McCray understood the use was approved by the State, but did not favor the Ordinance. Vice Mayor Katz had no objection to the lottery and favored starting with one dispensary If demand is high and they need a second location, the City can amend. He advised he emphatically supports the use as he has friends and family that have conditions that will qualify for this and it is a good alternative to deadly toxic chemicals from pharmaceutical companies. He thought the use should be gratefully and seriously supported as it allows residents to have access to a medicine. He was excited Boynton Beach was taking the lead to permit a medically necessary medicine. Mayor Grant explained there was consensus with lottery and staff will return with proposed application fees. Commissioner Casello asked for a vote on the lottery as written. Vote The vote was 3-2 (Commissioners Casello and McCray dissenting.) Mr. Mack will conduct an audit, provide an application fee scale, and a map of potential locations for each district. Commissioner Romelus asked how the City would collect the Business Tax Receipt. Mr. Mack explained it would go through the same regulations, as staff was amending Chapter 13 which adds the licensing requirements. They have to comply with those requirements before obtaining their licensing. The fee for the use is regulated by the State. The use would be classified as a Not Elsewhere Classified (NEC) and the maximum amount they can be charged under the current regulations is $99. 20 Meeting Minutes City Commission Boynton Beach, Florida 12. NEW BUSINESS April 18, 2017 A. Approve the selection of the top ranked qualifier as determined by the Evaluation Committee from the Part II responses and oral presentations to the Request for Qualifications for City of Boynton Beach Town Square Redevelopment, RFQ No. 004-1210-17/JMA; and authorize City Staff to conduct negotiations for a Master Development Contract for Phase I of the project with E21- Real Estate Solutions of Winter Park, FL, the top ranked firm according to Florida State Statute 287.55, Consultants' Competitive Negotiation Act (CCNA). Colin Groff, Assistant City Manager, explained staff had compiled the draft and final RFQ publication and teams were shortlisted. This is final team selection to move the project forward. The next step is contract approval by June 6th and then public meetings obtaining input on the design, what will be constructed and how, will occur June through August. Mr. Groff explained the Evaluation Committee included Lori LaVerriere, the City Manager; Mr. Simon, Interim CRA Director; Andrew Mack, Development Director; Linda Cross, Chair CRA Advisory Board; Jeff Livergood, Director of Public Works; and Ryan Wheeler, member Planning and Development Board. The teams submitted proposals with conceptual site plans and financial packages. The top three firms were ranked. There was a presentation by each team, then the Evaluation Committee individually scored each development team, and the scores were turned into to Procurement with a final ranking for the City Commission to approve. The approval is to allow the City Manager to start negotiations for Phase I of the contract with E21- Real Estate Solutions and does not include building design or architectural features, layout, infrastructure, or finances. Once approved, staff will develop a contract for Phase I, which includes conducting community charrettes, develop and approve a master site plan, develop 30% design plans for public buildings and a guaranteed maximum price for the public portion of the project, including a financial package how to fund that portion with a public/private partnership. The fourth component is considering starting to rehabilitate the Old High School. This item will return to the City Commission in six to eight weeks. Many charrettes and workshops will be scheduled to discuss the public aspects of the project, architectural style including interior design of the Old High School, open space layout, activity zones, event venues, master site plan, landscaping and signage. He noted part of the design will build around large canopy trees. These will start in June depending on when contract if finalized. Commissioner Casello asked if it was better to get public input before the design is done and learned staff would. Mr. Groff explained anyone who wants to provide input 21 Meeting Minutes City Commission Boynton Beach, - Florida April 18, 2017 should send him their comments and they will be tracked. He provided his email address. Mr. Groff clarified part of the Phase I contract could include construction work on the Old High School and it may be advisable to move that item forward because uses would be moved into the Old High School that are needed to finish the project. Commissioner McCray asked if the company selected will be aware there will be changes made along the way and learned they were. It was made very clear the conceptual plan is not the final plan and the public would guide what the plan would look like. Commissioner McCray asked why MCC LLC scored so low and learned the reviewers have a broad range of expertise. Commissioner McCray asked if the playground would remain. Mr. Groff explained the RFP specified the feel and style of Kids Kingdom must be maintained to current standards. Some of its infrastructure needs to be replaced and would be done in a similar style. The number one ranked team has a conceptual plan to maintain the park and many of its features. Motion Commissioner McCray moved to approve the recommendation brought in by the Evaluation Committee of E21- who had 549 points and was ranked number one. Commissioner Casello seconded the motion. Vote The motion passed 5-0. Attorney Cherof requested a motion to approve the second and third ranked firms. Motion Commissioner McCray moved to approve Boynton Vision LLC as the second ranked firm. Vice Mayor Katz seconded the motion. Vote The motion unanimously passed. Motion Commissioner McCray moved to approve MCC LLC as the third ranked firm. Vice Mayor Katz seconded the motion. 22 Meeting Minutes City Commission Boynton Beach, Florida April 18, 2017 Vote The motion unanimously passed. Mr. Howard thanked the City Commission for their observance of the rules surrounding this project and the Evaluation Committee. All did a great job. Commissioner Romelus commented she wanted to see a strong emphasis for local hiring before, during and after construction. She wants to build wealth in community, strengthen local businesses and have community involvement in a meaningful way. She wanted the projects leveraged to create a maximum benefit to the community. She explained this will be a major shift in the landscape in Boynton Beach, and if not enforced, residents will be left out. She wanted residents to be given priority. This will apply also to workforce housing. Vice Mayor Katz noted with the overlap between the CRA District and the City with regard to the project, he urged all to be mindful of CRA finances as they may augment some of the project costs. B. No Smoking signs at Oceanfront Park. Mayor Grant wanted to install a no smoking sign at Boynton Beach Oceanfront Park and create a smoking area. He commented it did not have to be enforced, rather it was a common courtesy to both smokers and non-smokers. Ms. LaVerriere commented staff will research if this was instituted in other cities. Commissioner McCray favored researching the issue before he considers the request. Mr. Groff explained they can bring back a short report 13. LEGAL - None 14. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS A. Consider adopting a Chronic Nuisance Ordinance. - May 2017 B. July 5, 2017 Commission Meeting has been cancelled. C. Monthly Departmental Presentations: Communications/Marketing - May, 2017 ITS/GIS - June, 2017 Public Works - July, 2017 D. Budget workshops for the FY 17/18 budget are scheduled in the Library Program Room on the following dates and times: 23 Meeting Minutes City Commission Boynton Beach, Florida Monday, July 17, 2017 @ 5:00 P.M. Tuesday, July 18, 2017 @ 10:00 A.M. Wednesday, July 19, 2017 @ 2:00 P.M. E. The Commission has scheduled a Public Input - Budget Workshop on: Tuesday, May 30, 2017 @ 6:30 p.m. in City Commission Chambers 15. Adjournment Motion ril 18, 2017 There being no further business to discuss, Commissioner Casello moved to adjourn. Vice Mayor Katz seconded the motion. Vote The motion unanimously passed. The meeting was adjourned at 8:37 p.m. (Continued on next page) 24 Meeting Minutes City Commission Boynton Beach, Florida . ATTEST J� jAh A. Pyle, CMC Cri y Clerk Catherine Cherry Minutes Specialist 25 April 18, 2017 NI • :• • `i L' r - Steven B. Grant - Justin Katz mis" ior�MUck M missionef- Christina Romelus Cofimissioner - Joe Casello QV x 0) Um 4) 0 LLJ 0 Nib M ov, Lu 0 Q Lu z X 3 M x fun, x ui E M- 2 m 0 0 am 0 cc LILJ I=,= QV x 0) z 4) OOMI% 3,: 4) 0 Nib ov, 2 0 0 3 M x fun, x E M- 2 m m C E x 41 Z cc 0 u QV 0 0) z 4) OOMI% 3,: 4) 0 u 2 3 M x fun, x .1... 0- M- 2 0- :5 x A am 0 0 z 0 u 2 3 M x U x X x .1... 0- M- 2 0- :5 Ln r- :r Ull Ul M M M ".7 c LA.■m Ir fu cu rt. (R m 0. M enj m 0 eD -' (TO m a)•0 imO, m m n (D F+ 0 r+ 0 Ull Ul M M M fu "C c LA.■m Ir fu cu rt. (R m 0. M enj m 0 r+ m 2) m a)•0 m m (D F+ 0 r+ 0 THE UNITED STATES CONFERENCE OF MAYORS 1620 EYE STREET NORTHWEST WASHINGTON, D.C. 20006 TELEPHONE (202) 293-7330 FAX (202) 293-2352 URL: www.usmayors.org President April 7, 2017 MICK CORNEF"f Mayor of Oklahoma City Vice Preside - residentMITCHELL J. LANDRIEU MIT CHELL The Honorable Steven B. Grant , Mawr of Nese Orleans 5e°ondVice President - Mayor of Boynton Beach STEPHEN K . BENJAMIN AlC°'°,„bia.SC Parr 100 E. Boynton Beach Boulevard President: ELIZABETH B. KAUTZ P.O. Box 310 Mayer nFBnra�ville. " BRYAN K. BARNE"1'r Boynton Beach, FL 33425-0310 Meyor of Roehesrer Hills SHANE T. BE?IIS blayur of Grcsbam I. CHRISTIAN BOLLW'AGE Dear Mayor Grant, Mayor of Elizabeth JAMES BRAINARD M. or of Carmel, IN °°°°PER '' Mayor Hallandale Beach l ani writing Lo ask you to join with us in the right to stop the elimination of the of BILL de O Mayyororoof New York f Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program. For more than 40 years, CDBG has T.M. FRANKLIN COWNI f.1a or of Dcs t`1°ines, L4A helped mayors and their cities to develop strong, long-lasting programs that improve the GREG FISCHER Mayor of Louisville quality of life for your residents. 'KIM McM ILLAN Mavor oFClarksville ,MIKE RAW'LINGS Mayor of Dallas The CDBG program is under attack in Washington, DC and its future funding is threatened JAMES J. SCHMITT Nla;.°r of Green Bay to be eliminated. We need to join us to make sure Congress understands the value MARILYN STRICKLAND you D-1°n,along-term ' NAN ��� and benefits of this investment in the future of cities. . HALEY H Mayor of Dayton Advisory Board: STEMay,, fAustin R Dlavor of The U. S. Conference of Mayors has launched a broad-based campaign to defeat the \\-II NAM A. BELL, SR. Mayr ofBinnaingh—, proposed elimination of CDBG. Here are actions to do your part in support of this effort: JUAN CARLOS BFRMUDF_Z May—f Doral 1. Meet with your Congressional delegation over the Easter recess, which runs for RICHARD J. BERRY Mayom1bngn—Ine the next two weeks; urge their support for the program. MURIFI. BOWSER May°rofrheDisrrie, ofc°lambi. 2. Use the press and social media to tout how CDBG investments have improved ARDELL F. BREDE your R°YB;o�'R°`''e `er M" city. Highlight your programs in our survey https:Z/mayo.rs/savecdbg ;.Mayor oFDubuque PETE BUTTIGIEG 3. Sign our Mayors letter to Congress supporting the program: Mayor of`So I, Band CHRISTOPHER L. CABALDON https://www.usmayors.org,/cdbgl BUND; DY aeSC�aeCa^1ea`° 4. Participate in CDBG Week, April 17-22, 2107, where all mayors will join with Mayor of Orlando KAREN FREEMAN -WILSON others to celebrate the benefits of the program. Mayor of Gary JOSEPI-I P. GANIM Mayor of Bridgeport JOHN I LES Now, more than ever, we need to join with mayoral to these �d you your colleagues preserve C;AR°`Y fLas°°°MAN Ma,,ar of las \egas vital resources for cities that have served us su well. i_c is certain d,at Ma urs '.,1hh1 y - ) �• g SYLUS15To Eo KLYaJAMES, ]R. together to speak in one voice can save CDBG. HARRY LaROSILIERF Mayor °f Plano EDWIN M. LEE Ma,°rofSanFrancisco For more information on how you can get involved in this campaign or the Conference of KENNETH D. MIYAGISHIMA Mayor of Las Cruces Mayors, please contact me or Debra DeHaney-Howard, Director of Membership, at (202) FRANK C. ORTIS Mayor oflembrokc Pines 293-7330. ED PA_LOWSKI Mason of Allcnrrnvn A-tIGL'FI. A. PULIDO May—fSanmAna E ROGERO Sincerel ya iMADELIN Ma,-ar of Knoxville FRANCIS G. SLAYFS, Mayr `LIN Louis PAUL SOGLIN Mayor oFMadison. WI MARK STODOLA Tom Cochran MayoroFLiale Rock BETH VAN DUYNE CEO and Executive Director Mayor oFl,ing BRIAN C. V AHLER Mayor of Piscanrs.ry MARTIN 1. WALSH Mayor of Bosmo ACQUANETTA WARREN Mayor oFFontana SETTI WARREN Mapor of Newroo CEO and &ecuui o Director TOM COCHRAN Dear Chairman Collins and Ranking Member Reed: We, the undersigned members of The U.S. Conference of Mayors, urge you to support the Community Block Grant (CDBG) program at $3.3 billion as you develop the FY2018 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development and Related Agencies Appropriation bill. CDBG is one of the most effective federal programs for growing local economies and for providing a lifeline to families and communities with proven results. Since FY 2005, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has collected accomplishment data for the CDBG program. The data highlight the program's flexibility to design and implement strategies tailored to meet local needs and priorities. It has provided funds in every state, including housing investments, public infrastructure improvements, and economic development, while also providing public services, including services for seniors, youth, the disabled, and employment training. Despite being a key tool for aiding our communities, the CDBG program, like many programs, has taken a share of deep cuts in recent years, falling substantially—by nearly $1.4 billion since FY2001. While the program helps more than 1,200 cities, counties, states, and rural areas meet the needs of low and moderate -income people and communities, funding cuts have severely weakened the ability of grantees to revitalize their communities and respond to local need. We share your commitment to the most effective use of taxpayer dollars and believe that these grants have proven highly effective. Based on the data that grantees have reported to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development over the past nine years (FY2005 – FY2016), CDBG has: • Helped over 1.3 million low- and moderate -income persons through single-family, owner - occupied rehabilitation, homeownership assistance, energy-efficient improvements, and lead-based abatement, among other activities; • Created or retained 387,109 jobs for low- and moderate -income people through a variety of economic development activities; • Benefited over 42 million low- and moderate -income persons through public improvements including senior centers, child care centers, and centers for people with disabilities; • Benefited over 133 million low- and moderate -income persons through public services such as employment training, meals and other services to the elderly, services for abused and neglected children, assistance to local food banks, and other services; • Helped Seniors Live Independently. CDBG funds are used to rehabilitate the homes of low - and moderate -income elderly persons to allow them to age in place, thereby, avoiding costly assisted living and nursing home care. CDBG provides resources to Meals on Wheels and other local food programs to ensure our low- and moderate -income seniors receive daily nourishment and contact. Further, CDBG funds are used to build community centers to allow seniors to receive health and recreational services to stay engaged and healthy; • Strengthened Families and Communities through Homeownership. CDBG funds are used to assist creditworthy, working for families with down payment and closing cost assistance to purchase a home. Homeownership stabilizes neighborhoods, allows families to build assets, and adds to the local tax base; • Created Safer Communities. Local communities use CDBG to work with local police departments and neighborhood leaders to fight crime and make neighborhoods safer places to live and work by creating and expanding neighborhood watch groups, making safety improvements to homes and businesses, and encouraging local police sub -stations to move into high crime areas; • Invested in Our Next Generation. Local communities use CDBG funds to provide afterschool programs to low-income children, summer jobs for low-income youth, and build recreation centers to provide a safe outlet for learning, sports and personal growth. Additionally, every $1.00 of CDBG leverages an additional $3.65 in non-CDBG funding. CDBG makes its way into the local economy through an extensive network of local organizations and remains a lifeline for families and communities. It is one federal program that touches the lives of nearly every American in some fashion. Over 7,200 communities have access to the funds and rely on the program to enhance their life and community. Every State, Territory, and Congressional District receives or has access to CDBG funds. The pressing need in the current economy for these funds remains critical. While we understand the difficult fiscal decisions, you must make in Washington, we appreciate your consideration of this important request and strongly urge you to support at least $3.3 billion for the CDBG program in FY18 to help grow local economies. Mayors' Sign -On: https://www.usmayors.org/cdbg/