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Minutes 11-14-17 MINUTES OF THE COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY BOARD MEETING HELD ON TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2017, AT 6:30 PM IN CITY COMMISSION CHAMBERS 100 E. BOYNTON BEACH BOULEVARD, BOYNTON BEACH, FLORIDA PRESENT: Steven B. Grant, Chair Mike Simon, Executive Director Justin Katz, Vice Chair Tara Duhy, Board Counsel Mack McCray, Board Member Christina Romelus, Board Member ABSENT: Joe Casello, Board Member I. Call to Order Chair Grant called the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m. II. Invocation Board Member McCray gave the invocation and led the members in the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag. III. Roll Call Roll call was taken. A quorum was present. IV. Agenda Approval A. Additions, Deletions, Corrections to the Agenda None. B. Adoption of Agenda Motion Vice Chair Katz moved to approve the agenda as presented. Board Member Romelus seconded the motion that unanimously passed. Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, Florida November 14, 2017 V. Legal A. Discussion and Consideration of for the request of additional legal assistance from CRA legal counsel, Lewis, Longman & Walker, P.A. to monitor the proposed State House and Senate Bills Attorney Duhy explained the Legislature discussed CRA legislation last year. Her firm monitors CRA issues and she advises Mr. Simon about the pertinent ones. None of the initiatives were successful last year, but this year there are CRA issues in the forefront. She explained Mr. Simon requested she draft a proposal for lobbying services if the Board wanted to become more involved in following these types of issues. The proposal is at the Board's discretion and she disclosed the Florida Redevelopment Association (FRA) monitors these issues across the State. Chair Grant noted the cost is $15,000. Attorney Duhy explained their team works on a flat fee for lobbying services every six months. Chair Grant understood from the Florida League of Cities, House Bill 17 deals with CRAs. He explained some members will be in Tallahassee for Palm Beach County Days and asked if the lobbyists would help them meet with the various legislators and learned they would. The contract would be a more proactive effort on behalf of the CRA to monitor and make the Board's position known with regard to specific bills and proposals. If the Board declined, Legal would still monitor Attorney Duhy could provide the services on an hourly rate regarding meeting arrangements for Palm Beach County Days. This is a more offensive Boynton Beach CRA specific effort. Board Member McCray asked when they are in Tallahassee, if the legal team will take them around for an additional charge. Attorney Duhy replied if the contract is signed, there is no additional charge. If he wanted Attorney Duhy to do anything in Tallahassee for the Board, it would be on an hourly rate basis. Discussion followed $15,000 would be the cap. Board member McCray explained the City uses a lobbyist, but they cannot work on these types of issues. He agreed during Palm Beach County Days, it is helpful to have someone take them around. He was fine with the $15K, but the Board should be cognizant of how the funds are spent. Vice Chair Katz supported the request. Board Member Romelus did not support the request and felt it was a duplication of services with the City's lobbyist and as such, the CRA is under the jurisdiction of the City. She felt the listed legislation, regardless of whether they have a lobbyist to curtail these issues, would pass anyway. If that was the case, she was unsure what change Lyman & Lewis and Association would make. Last year during Palm Beach County Days, they met with the individual sponsoring the bill on Business Tax Receipts. She asked if this could occur through the City's lobbyist. Board Member McCray questioned if the City lobbyist was allowed to work on CRA issues. Chair Grant responded they could, but they would work on all of the City's issues as well. The proposed contract would focus only on CRA issues. Chair Grant expressed 2 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, Florida November 14, 2017 the way a bill passes could result in different variations of the bill and both houses have to pass matching bills. House Bill 17 will not allow the CRA to spend money on special events such as Pirate Fest, Movies in the Park, Music on the Rocks, the Blarney Bash and the Holiday Boat Parade. If these events were continued, the City would have to fund them. Board Member McCray favored working through the City's firm, Ballard Partners Inc., as did Board Member Romelus. She noted this is a statewide issue and not a local issue, and the FRA and the Florida League of Cities is fighting the issue. She noted there is a Republican dominated Congress that will do what they want and she thought it would likely pass. Chair Grant disagreed. Chair Grant suggested paying a $5,000 retainer to be used on an hourly basis. Attorney Duhy explained if the Board wanted to proceed on an hourly basis, they can do so under the existing contract with Board direction of what action would be taken. If specific to Palm Beach County Days, they would not need an additional contract or retainer. Chair Grant suggested moving forward with the firm for Palm Beach County Days. Board Members Romelus and McCray agreed, on an hourly basis. Vice Chair Katz requested to table the item as one Board member was absent. He supported the$15,000 to protect the CRA. He agreed this was not an iron clad ideological issue that the majority party would definitely pass as the bills were introduced last year and were defeated. There are Republican representatives in the Senate that may also have CRA's. He thought it was a soft enough issue that a few votes could be pried here and there to essentially curtail the bills another year. At the League of Cities meeting he attended with Chair Grant, there were Republican representatives from the House in the delegation who were asking pointed questions about the value of CRAs and they were not knowledgeable about what CRA's do and the benefit they provide to their community. He thought it was a softer target and he wanted to hear the fifth board member's opinion. Motion Vice Chair Katz moved to table. The motion died for lack of a second. Mr. Simon explained there is an excellent two-minute video the FRA issued showing the extreme lack of education legislators have about the functions of CRAs. He also suggested they should rely on citizens attending the CRA and City Commission meetings. If they feel the CRA is a viable agency, they should also contact their legislators in support of the CRA. The members viewed the video. Board Member McCray was sorry the video was viewed and announced District I I was blighted for the purpose of redevelopment and it seemed they got the short end of the stick. 3 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, Florida November 14, 2017 Chair Grant announced there was consensus to speak to the law firm about Palm Beach County Day meetings with certain legislators. Attorney Duhy advised she would continue to keep the Board updated about pending legislation. 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 Chair Grant and Vice Chair Katz had no disclosures. Board Members McCray and Romelus had no disclosures, but praised staff for a job well done regarding the Pirates Fest event. II. Announcements and Awards A. 2017 Florida Redevelopment Association Report A summary report of the conference was contained in the meeting backup listing the activities Mike Simon, CRA Executive Director, and Thuy Shutt, CRA Assistant Director, and CRA Advisory Board members Thomas Murphy and Cindy Falco-DiCorrado attended while at the FRA conference. There were great keynote speakers and all left impressed. The highlight was the Boynton Beach CRA won the Roy Kenzie Award for the best new project, which was 500 Ocean. Mr. Simon announced the award was the fourth award the CRA received from the Association in the last three years and he congratulated the Board. Board Member Romelus requested in the future, only one member of the CRA executive team attend the conference as opposed to both at the same time. Board Member McCray agreed. He praised staff on a job well done and for the 2017 Best Book which was available in the back of the Chamber. B. The 6th Annual Boynton Beach Haunted Pirate Fest and Mermaid Splash Recap Mr. Simon thanked his entire team, especially Tracy Smith-Coffey, Azim Hussain and Mercedes Coppin on the event. It was the best so far and each year gets better and more refined. A short video of the event was viewed. Ms. Coppin announced staff obtained a great deal of information from Pirates Fest which was held on October 21St and October 22nd- Mr. Hussain explained, based on Live Gauge software that was used, the event drew approximately 60,200 attendees. The software used cell phone technology and was installed on the east and west stage areas and by the amphitheater. Forty thousand attendees were counted and additional attendees were gauged through Wi-Fi and disabled phones. Saturday's attendance was captured as 4 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, Florida November 14, 2017 having 31,740 event goers. Live Gauge calculated peak times at each sensor. The estimated Sunday event goer count was 29,949. This year there were again kids activities including rock walls, a bounce house, and a ticket system was used for balloon art, face painting, and glitter tattoo. Based on ticket counts, 2,300 youth participated in these events. This year, staff conducted its own event surveys. Six hundred and twelve surveys were conducted reflecting 58% were first time attendees and 42% were returning attendees. Seventy four percent of the attendees who took the survey lived in Palm Beach County and 20% were coming from outside Palm Beach County. Staff reached many areas of the State through its marketing. First time male to female attendees were 31% and 68% respectively, and household income showed 27% of survey participants earn between $25K and $50K. The total budget allocated was $350,000. To-date, the CRA expended $339,000. Staff was still waiting on outstanding invoices, but anticipated the event expenses would be under budget. Entertainment, tents, staging and event management were the top four expenses. Staff collected about $22,500 in paid sponsorship and $70K from in-kind sponsorships. They stabilized relations with Jersey Mike who provided 200 subs per day for volunteers and the South Florida Fair provided the CRA with 75 tickets to the fair to be included as Treasure Chest prizes awarded to the winners of the Treasure Hunts. The CRA also collected $63,000 in fees from various vendors that participated. This year the CRA launched a new emergency plan due to tragedies occurring throughout the world. Security was a priority. CRA staff, Standing Ovations, the event management firm, and the Boynton Beach Police Department developed a comprehensive security plan. This year there were additional officers at the event, as well as Sergeant Diehl and Officers Riviera and Paramore from the Neighborhood Officers Program. Board Member McCray noted there was no advertising for the CRA on the Segways, only the Police Department and something was needed. The CRA had sign language interpreters on site as requested and approximately 15 people utilized that service. This year Standing Ovations and the CRA implemented volunteer programs and last year there was little interest. This year they had 90 volunteers working the information booth, the treasure hunt booths, assisting with the surveys and youth activities. Staff was very impressed with Standing Ovations, who brought a high level of experience to the event. Ms. Coppin advised it was a pleasure to work with Stewart Auville, who came on Board in June and his team was great. Board Member Romelus asked who thought of using Live Gauge and learned staff became aware of them at a Florida Festival and Events Association Convention in 5 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, Florida November 14, 2017 August. Mr. Simon pointed out more information could be obtained from Live Gauge depending on how much the Agency wants to spend. This year, staff started at the introductory level. An overview of staff hours spent at the event was given. All office personnel contributed to working on the event which was about 210 hours. It was noted all staff, except for Mr. Hussain, is paid an annual salary. The CRA sought to engage the community in the event and used several social media campaigns. They partnered with Palm Beach County Walks, had a rock hunt challenge, the parade, the Treasure Hunt and various costume contests. The Festival attracted 57 arts and crafts vendors from all over Florida and some from Colorado. Mr. Hussain explained this year 15 CRA district businesses that participated in the event and all businesses in the CRA were offered free tent space. In lieu of paying the vendor fees, they gave $100 gift certificates for prizes for the Treasure Chest and other events. Ms. Smith-Coffey explained CRA staff upped the marketing campaign with new initiatives. They had a variety of print ads. The Boynton Forum had a double-page spread. The Sun Sentinel was a sponsor and their in-kind donation was $20,320 in ads, consisting of two full-page ads and the show time, and three half-page ads in the main section of the newspaper and two email blasts to 110,000 subscribers. There was a full-page ad in the Delray newspaper reaching over 15,000 direct online readers and a paper circulation of 12,000. The paper was distributed throughout Palm Beach County at 250 locations and 2,000 homes. Ads were in the Neighborhood News in the western community, the Coastal Angler in the Palm Beach County, Broward, Dade and Monroe Counties and the Coastal Star in southeastern PBC County. The CRA printed 5,000 post cards and 100 posters were distributed in the CRA district to inform residents about the event. Additionally, 700 flyers were sent to Poinciana and 500 flyers were sent to Galaxy Elementary School. Discover the Palm Beaches was a sponsor and the event was on their website. There is no relationship with the Cultural Council and ads were not in the Palm Beach Post as it would create a conflict with the Sun Sentinel. It was noted the Sun Sentinel provided much more than the Palm Beach Post had in the past. Sun Sentinel provided 20,230 worth of ads. Evert door direct mailers went to 10,000 homes in mostly gated communities and a 30-second promotional video was aired before every movie at Cinemark, Boynton Beach 14, Cinemark Palace 20 in Boca, and Shadow Wood 16 in Boca. The video aired 250 times a day, and 1,750 times a week in all three theaters combined. Staff also promoted the event on social media, which reached 12,104 people on Facebook. The members viewed the video. CRA staff established a strong social media campaign on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. The social media ad reached 53,700 people. There was an increase in followers on Facebook, the CRA Facebook page and the Boynton Beach Haunted Pirates Fest Facebook page. Staff highlighted local businesses and created Insta-stories during the event enticing viewers at home to come join the fun. They 6 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, Florida November 14, 2017 have another sponsor/partner with I Hart Media for three years. Staff created two radio ads that aired in October, and three interviews with Lord Governor Hyde and Mermaid Shelly, which aired on Cool 105.5, 98.7, the Gator and 95.5 Wild radio stations. The radio ads from the radio were played. There were billboards on 1-95 at 10th Avenue during October. Each billboard had a 90-second spot looping every 72 seconds, with eight flips per board. Another location was Gateway and 1-95, which commenced October 8th and ended on October 22nd. The website was popular in October having 94,172 views, 16,152 new visitors and 24,592 returning visitors. The Visit Florida initiative was viewed and was new. Staff positioned 10,000 rack cards at the 1-74 and 1-95 welcome centers promoting the event. Additional photos of the event could be viewed on the CRA Flicker page. Last year, the police estimated there were 80,000 attendees based on traffic on Ocean Avenue, and this year had 60,000. Board Member Romelus praised Ms. Smith Coffey. C. Music on the Rocks Ms. Coppin announced November 17th is the first Music on the Rocks event of the new season featuring Fireside Prophets, playing rock and reggae at the Ocean Avenue Amphitheater from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Food Truck Invasions will be present with a variety of food trucks including the Chowder Truck. Cocktails and beer are available for purchase from the mobile bar service and the free event has free parking available on site. The December 15th Music on the Rocks event will feature Rogue Theory. This event is promoted through social media. D. Movies in the Park December 1St the CRA will present Mr. Popper's Penguins. The free event at the Amphitheater will take place from 7 p.m. to approximately 9 p.m. The PG film is a fantasy comedy. Mr. Popper, played by Jim Carey, is a successful developer who unexpectedly receives a gift of six live penguins from his father. The movie is suitable for the entire family. Benches will be available, but attendees can bring their own chairs and blankets. A trailer of select CRA businesses will be aired prior to the movie and gift cards donated by CRA businesses will be given out to moviegoers. Free popcorn is available to the first 100 attendees. Additional snacks are available for purchase and the Cub Scouts will be selling snacks as a fundraiser. Board Member McCray asked if the CRA could use the City marquee to advertise the music and movies in the park events and learned the CRA does as long as it does not conflict with any City event. E. The 47th Annual Boynton Beach Holiday Tree Lighting and Concert The Holiday Tree Lighting and Concert will take place in front of the Schoolhouse Children's Museum on Saturday, December 2nd from 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. on East Ocean Avenue with the tree lighting to begin at 6:30 p.m. Solid Brass will play. Food and beverages will be available and Santa will be on site for photo opportunities. Board Member McCray inquired who ensures the tree lights are working as last year, some were 7 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, Florida November 14, 2017 out. Ms. Coppin replied the tree rental company handles that, but she will monitor the lights more closely. Art Brody from Public Works will assist. F. 46th Annual Boynton Beach and Delray Beach Holiday Boat Parade Ms. Coppin announced the Holiday Boat Parade held in conjunction with Delray Beach on Friday December 8th at 6:30 p.m. The parade will travel south from the Lantana Bridge near the Old Key Lime House to the C-15 canal in Delray Beach, just south of Linton Boulevard. The public can view the parade from various locations, including the Marina, Intracoastal Park, and Mangrove and Jaycee Parks. Live music will be provided by Real Team Steel Drum Band. Kids activities are planned as is a visit from Santa. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own food and drinks and an unwrapped new toy for Toys for Tots. The U.S. Marine Corp will collect toys along the parade route. Anyone wanting to donate a toy should shine a flashlight from the docks and the Marine will stop by. The CRA is also accepting applications for boats until December 4th on the CRA website, www.Catchboynton.com. It was noted Delray Beach donated last year and this year to the event. VIII. Information Only A. Public Comment Log B. Public Relations Articles Associated with the BBCRA IX. Public Comments Chair Grant opened public comments. Susan Oyer, 140 SE 27th Way, reminded all she is collecting clean, used, mascara wands for baby animals for Wands for Wildlife. A drop off box was located at Oyer Insurance, 511 E. Ocean Avenue. Cindy Falco-DiCorrado praised the CRA for their efforts creating community-type atmospheres and events to draw people together. No one else came forward. X. Consent Agenda A. Monthly Purchase Orders B. Approval of CRA Board Meeting Minutes - September 27, 2017 C. Approval of CRA Board Meeting Minutes - October 10, 2017 8 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, Florida November 14, 2017 D. Approval of Fashion Shoppes Boutique, Inc. for Commercial Facade Improvement Grant Program E. Approval of Boss Tacos, Inc. for Commercial Facade Improvement Grant Program F. Approval of Divine N Corp, d/b/a That's Amore for Commercial Interior Build- Out Grant Program G. Approval of Home Racer, LLC for Commercial Rent Reimbursement Grant Program Motion Vice Chair Katz moved to approve the Consent Agenda. Board Member Romelus seconded the motion that unanimously passed. XI. Pulled Consent Agenda Items None. XII. Public Hearing XIII. Old Business A. Financial Report Period Ending October 31, 2017 Mr. Simon explained this item is usually under Information Only, but was moved to Old Business in case the members had any questions. Board Member McCray asked if the CRA was on track and learned they were. An audit will take place at the end of November and a report will be made in January. It was noted the CRA did very well last year. B. Neighborhood Officer Program 4th Quarter Reports for FY 2016 — 2017 Mr. Simon explained the report was in the backup. Sergeant Diehl was present if there were any questions. Board Member McCray was glad to see the newest member present. Board Member Romelus thanked the Officers for attending various events. C. Consideration of Amendment to the Interlocal Agreement for the Neighborhood Officer Program for FY 2017 — 2018 Mr. Simon explained this item was a housekeeping item. The Interlocal Agreement with the City for this program is an annual agreement. Now that a third officer was added, 9 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, Florida November 14, 2017 there is a new budget and an amendment was needed to extend the agreement from October 1, 2017 to September 30, 2018. He advised he was working with the City to see if there is a way to formalize these agreements for longer than the annual renewals, but right nowm wanted to extend the original agreement to September 30, 2018, Board Member McCray favored a year-to-year agreement as it was easier to maintain control. Motion Board Member McCray moved to approve. Vice Chair Katz seconded the motion that unanimously passed. C. Consideration of the Purchase and Development Agreement with Centennial Management Corporation for the CRA Owned Property Located at 700 N. Seacrest Boulevard, a/k/a Ocean Breeze East Mr. Simon explained a discussion of contract points with Centennial took place in October and they have a final draft of the Purchase and Development Agreement. The agenda cover detailed the funding the Board had outlined. At this point, Centennial will acquire the property after agreeing to the terms of the contract within 60 to 90 days and make application for the 9% tax credits. The request for the $567,500 local government contribution attaches to the application. In total, Centennial will make two attempts to obtain the 9% funding and one attempt for the 4% SAIL funds. If, after those three attempts are made and if still unsuccessful, the CRA would provide Centennial with annual gap financing of $350,000 per year for 15 years to be used as the debt payment on the borrowed funds to build the project without the low income housing tax credits for a total of $5.25 million. Centennial would need a one-time $500,000 contribution and would acquire the property for $1,000. The tricky part in writing the contract was accounting for the "if not this, than that will occur" language. There is a reverter and first right of refusal clause included in the contract. He commented they purchased the property for $800,000. The terms in the contract had to include language to allow for a refund or escrow reimbursement of the funds if that was the scenario if successful. Chair Grant thought if they already own the property, it was not a refund, it is a total price of $800,000 plus the $500,000. He suggested language indicating there would be a refund of $1.3 million. Lewis Swezy, Centennial Management, was uncertain and thought there may be a tax consequence with the grant. He requested getting a legal opinion from the tax attorney. Board Member McCray asked why Centennial Management's name was changed to Ocean Breeze East LLC, and learned all assets that are acquired and developed must be in a single asset entity for liability and tax reasons. It is part of the application process, and it is required by the Florida Housing Finance Agency and the State of Florida. 10 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, Florida November 14, 2017 Paul Milton, Centennial Management, explained to submit an application, they have to have an entity formed as an unlimited partnership or an LLC with a general partner by which one entity obtains or provides the tax credits. Centennial Management cannot apply to Florida Housing. Chair Grant explained the Board was waiting for the correct language for the third option to say if no tax credits are received, the tax attorney will determine whether to say the funds would be refunded for a total of $1.3 million. Mr. Simon explained they are approaching the application deadline for the tax credit. Vice Chair Katz queried if they could vote to approve the language for the grant. Attorney Duhy recommended approving the item subject to technical edits and Legal approval. Motion Attorney Duhy suggested if the motion is to approve, it should be worded there is a motion to approve per Vice Chair Katz's recommendation to leave the language as is, if there are tax implications to propose it as the grant, subject to final Legal approval of the language. Board Member McCray agreed to second the motion if Vice Chair Katz meant his comments as a motion. The motion unanimously passed. Mr. Simon advised CRA staff had also met with City staff and the Centennial Development Team to review all aspects of the application and required forms. He explained staff expedited the forms which were returned to Centennial Management, keeping the process on track. E. Social Media Outreach Program Update Matthew Meinzer and Jamil Donith, Social Media Business Consultants, provided an update on the Social Media Outreach Program (SMOP) and advised participation in the program increased since August from 23 businesses to 34 with 12 more waiting to cycle into the program as others leave. A snapshot of the program since inception in May to the present day was reviewed. Ms. Donith explained their work with Facebook reflected the program grew followers for the 34 businesses to more than 2,200 followers. Two that did exceedingly well were Bailey Blendz, who experienced a 48% increase and Del Sol Bakery, which increased by 67%. Ms. Donith advised the owners are now handling Facebook on their own with the occasional cross promoting on the CRA's page, which will continue. Instagram had more than 1,500 new followers. Ms. Donith explained growth in the program started with zero and they helped businesses start Instagram profiles they did not have. As a result, there are now more than 1,500 new followers on Instagram from all the businesses. Healing Hearts started at zero followers and are up 5,300%. Infusions Cafe is also doing very well and has improved 51%. Some of the larger campaigns were viewed. Infusions Cafe is an incubator/kitchen based out of the Secret Garden Cafe. 11 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, Florida November 14, 2017 There is a solo chef operating out of the facility. The chef is generally just open for lunch, but she holds special event pop up dinners. Ms. Donith explained she conducted two social media campaigns for the dinners and was completely booked both times due to the social media campaign. The campaign highlighted who and where the Chef was. More than 12,000 people were reached through the campaign and the chef received a 51% increase on followers on Facebook in a few weeks. She experienced a 21% increase on Instagram. The CRA is cross promoting events by using their social media platform. Solinda Waxing Oasis, at the Ocean Plaza was new. Ms. Donith put together a one- minute social media video highlighting the business and products. They created an ad campaign on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter and paid a nominal fee for them. From the video alone, the owner reached nearly 6,000 people on Facebook. She added 500 followers, got 15 shares and Instagram Impressions, which is a combination of individuals who view the video who liked it and commented on it, and the business got 38 clicks on the profile and 40 new followers based on the one video that was advertised across all platforms. The owner apprised Ms. Donith dozens of customers came to her business just by advertising on Facebook and Instagram. It was noted the Pirate Fest event also promoted her business through the Treasure Hunt. Art Sea Living has a large following across all three platforms, but they wanted more engagement with their art classes. By jazzing up the way she was promoting her classes on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter, she got 384 followers on Facebook, 81 on Instagram and 38 on Twitter. The classes are filling up and being booked like crazy. Penn Nails and Spa at Ocean Plaza only had a Facebook page. The owner worked with the owner a lot about how and what to post. She created a few short social media videos. In the month Mr. Meinzer and Ms. Donith worked with her, she experienced a 50% increase in followers on Facebook and now that snowbirds are present for the season, she is swamped all the time. Ms. Donith explained the last time she and Mr. Meinzer appeared, they were working on cross promoting the Boardwalk and Del Sol Bakery for "Grilling on the Boardwalk". They are having an outdoor event on weekends, providing hot dogs, fair and carnival food, and they wanted to get the word out. They created a social media video cross promoting their events across all of their platforms and provided live tweet videos during events. They got a great deal of engagement and results. Five thousand people were reached on Facebook, almost 900 on Instagram and many retweets on Twitter. She explained Twitter is very new to many businesses, and while it does not sound like that was a lot, it was actually a lot for a small company. Ms. Donith announced they instituted a Facebook group, only for businesses participating in the SMOP. It is a private member community page that provides helpful links how to use Facebook messages and engage customers, or remind them about Pirate Fest and using hash tags. Ms. Donith advised they have gotten into creating tutorials. She created 12 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, Florida November 14, 2017 a 30-minute tutorial how to be a Twitter genius and create an account, how to reach the target audience and so far the tutorials are working well. Mr. Meinzer explained based on where they are in the program, they felt it was necessary to develop the technical side of the program and develop guides and tutorials so the business owners will be ready to learn and handle social media on their own. He reviewed a PowerPoint showing the basic breakdown of all the businesses they work with highlighting where they want to start and where they want to end. They started with a guide for using ad words and learning how to read the analytical reports. This enables the owners to develop more detailed ad word campaigns towards their target audience or their products. A written tutorial for Facebook ads was reviewed. Ms. Donith explained they are working with three new businesses. They are working with Pizzeria That's Amore and when they start to open, they will hold a social media grand opening to create interest. They are also working on Magic in Your Kitchen, which is another incubator kitchen from the Secret Garden Cafe. It is a vegan restaurant and Ms. Donith and Mr. Meinzer helped them with their pop up dinner. The Cooperative Real Estate Alliance is kicking off a free first time homebuyer course and she was helping them publicize the event. The goal was to get businesses going, graduate students and add more business owners to the program. Board Member McCray asked if they were working with Troy's BBQ and learned they were not. Board Member McCray commented he did not get excited about the presentation and he thought something could be done to sell the information better by having music or some other element. Additionally, the screen is small and the Board needs a printout of the presentation. Chair Grant appreciated all they are doing for the success of Boynton Beach. Board Member Romelus agreed with Board Member McCray. She favored seeing the actual results or have live testimonials via videos or appearances in person. Ms. Donith agreed noting that one business owner was present, but had to leave. She pointed out the presentation was just a few of the successes and there are others that really started to soar. Board Member Romelus asked how long a time period was used to determine if the program was successful or not. Ms. Donith explained they never cut anyone off and they are always available to assist, but there is a time the owner's no longer ask them for help. They still cross promote businesses in the CRA. Board Member Romelus noted the program was originally for six months and it was extended another year. There was agreement quarterly reports will be given. F. Consideration of Parameters for an RFP/RFQ for the CRA Owned Property Located at NE 4th and NE 5th Avenues, a/k/a the Cottage District Thuy Shutt, Assistant CRA Director, presented the item explaining the subject property is a 4.24-acre parcel known as the Cottage District which is adjacent to the Community Caring Center. The property permits 10 dwelling units (dus) per acre in the Heart of 13 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, Florida November 14, 2017 Boynton (HOB). The property was land banked in order to construct single-family residences. The Board requested staff bring back alternatives, designs and parameters, before issuing an RFP while staff discussed relocating the Community Caring Center site. The RFP could include more innovative, and higher density in the area. The zoning allows up to 11 dus per acre, but the parcel could only accommodate 30 single-family units to be compatible with adjacent properties. The roads, buffers, drainage and utilities use a lot more land. Other areas of the country tried having several amenities on site in a common area, such as open green space or shared driveways to minimize impervious areas. The meeting materials contained examples of the designs used. Staff also had discussions with developers through the year. Many of the options are available, but the market demand requires developers to explore them. The public does not have quality urban design products because there is no demand. The issue is try to ensure the RFP's products are vetted through staff, so they can go through the process easily because the cost of the units has to do with speed of the process, known factors, the cost of the land and hard construction costs. The staff report indicates the developer has to consider items in the budget including design, design fees, infrastructure and utilities fees, sales and marketing, the absorption rate and the overhead and profit. Most of these projects require gap funding and most families cannot afford market rate homes. Only eight percent or higher than the average medium income families could obtain their own financing options, but most traditional families could not. In order for the CRA make homes more affordable to families, the CRA would have to assist with the land cost, development costs, entitlement costs, or subsidies to family members. The second page of the staff report had options for the Board to consider as contained in the meeting materials. The Board could assist in the cost per unit of single-family, detached homes with fee simple lots, varying from 35 feet to 60 feet wide, and 90 to 100 feet long. Another option for single-family or detached homes was cluster housing with shared driveways. Option three was multi-family attached homes with parking. Option four was multi-family attached homes with common parking, as live-work townhomes; however, three story homes are difficult for most families due to the stairs. The Board could assist with the per unit cost of the infrastructure, consider a lower offering price, or consider limiting hard construction costs to $100 to $105 per square foot. Boynton Beach has a good green building initiatives and it was recommended the developer adhere to, or meet or exceed the City's green building standards. Staff reviewed options for high- density housing such as micro or container housing and they are not apparent in the region because they are usually used for student, transitional or temporary housing. Staff did not think the site would be suitable for the latter type of housing because the homes would be 500 square feet, which is comparable to a hotel room. Families with small children will need more space as they grow. David Katz, 67 Midwood Lane, understood the land was 4.24 buildable acres. He asked if it was less than the land for the Oyer property, the Community Caring Center and the two homes that are occupied and learned it was just the CRA-owned property. He thought 14 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, Florida November 14, 2017 the entire block was 5.5 acres. He disagreed multi-family townhomes would be compatible with the Oyer historic home, and he suggested the Board do the same thing as Ocean Breeze West. The CRA should buy the two current properties; one is owner occupied and the other was not, and the CRA should replat the lots and give them to Habitat for Humanity or a CDC to build single-family homes that look like cottages. They would give the property away. He thought the CRA should sell the small sliver of land to the Oyers as the way it is presently platted, the adjacent property is a few feet away from the property line. Susan Oyer, 140 SE 27th Way, as co-owner of 500 Ocean Properties LLC and 417 Ocean Properties LLC, based out of 511 E. Ocean Avenue explained she did not receive a response to her letter to the CRA or the City about the disposition of the property. She was asking the City for part of the easement. She assumed adjacent property owner Blanche Hearst-Girtman would want the other half. She also had asked about buying or obtaining the other buffer properties as it appears the driveway is one to two feet off the property line, which was why she requested getting more land. She asked about the status, the letter was sent over a month ago. She was worried they would go forward with the development without addressing her request. Mark Karageorge, 240A Main Blvd, commended Ms. Shutt for the analysis. In the past, RFPs were issued that did not receive any responses because they were written for single-family homes. He noted a development could still occur. It could be built by Habitat for Humanity or the CDC. Ms. Shutt was also familiar with Westgate. When Mr. Karageorge obtained his certification as a Community Real Estate Development Professional, he studied the Cottage District. It was discussed there was a need for a subsidy if doing single-family homes. The cost must be offset somehow either through the land value, construction costs or allowing the end user to receive a discount on the pricing. It is hard for the developer to construct affordable single-family homes in this market. He emphasized he was discussing affordable housing and not workforce housing. He thought the Board should allow flexibility because if the RFP is written too rigidly, no one would respond. With the options Ms. Shutt presented, the CRA will receive different responses. No one else coming forward, public comments was closed. Board Member McCray asked about the Oyer request. Mr. Simon explained he, City Manager Lori LaVerriere, Public Works and Engineer Jeff Livergood and Gary Dunmeyer, City Engineer, have been discussing how to handle the request. Mr. Simon spoke with Ms. Oyer after the last meeting advising they were not doing anything right away with the property, and any type of analysis or response would occur over the next several months. Typically, CRAs do not dispose of properties that it owns for the sake of disposing property. There are statutory guidelines regarding owning and redistributing property: not as an enrichment to an individual. Staff would consider the activities of the adjacent property owners for the project and would require setbacks and buffering, and these factors would be taken into account as the project is being advertised and the responses 15 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, Florida November 14, 2017 being evaluated. The disposal or selling or giving the property may not be required. He suggested the Board address the buffering requirements as opposed to the disposing of the property to the benefit of another property that would not be included in the CRA's affordable housing effort. Board direction is helpful so when they write the RFP, they can hone in on what the Board would like to see. Motion Board Member McCray thought there was too much occurring and wanted to table the matter until Board Member Casello was present. He noted they already have large projects the Board was subsidizing and the Board cannot keep going to the well. Chair Grant noted there are currently Land Development Regulation's (LDRs) in place and staff could conduct an analysis based on the LDRs what is outside of the building's area so there should not be a worry if they need a variance to build more than 10 to 15 feet closer to the current structure on the property line. Chair Grant spoke to Mr. Simon and Ms. Shutt about the vacant property owned by the Palm Beach County Housing Authority. He asked if the Board was interested in sending them a letter of intent as the property next to the Carolyn Sims Center could be included in the Cottage District. He wanted to include their land in the RFP and work together for affordable homes. The Housing Authority has access to HUD funds and others to make the project affordable. Board Member McCray liked the concept of expansion, but advised he does not want another project in Cherry Hill. He wanted only single-family homes constructed on property owned by the Palm Beach County Housing Authority. Board Member Romelus thought there was no need to rush the process and let the market dictate interest. She also favored moving on the Housing Authority property. Vice Chair Katz was in favor of approaching the Palm Beach County Housing Authority, but did not know if bundling random properties that are not part of this particular potential project was the best way to approach the matter. He supported obtaining all of their property because the Housing Authority was not doing anything with the land. Board Member Romelus seconded the motion to table the item. The motion unanimously passed. There was consensus to table the item for six months. G. Consideration of Naming Options, Rental Rates, and Schedule for Critical Repairs for the CRA-Owned Property Located at 1010 S. Federal Highway, formerly known as the Boynton Woman's Club Chair Grant explained the Board received three name options: The Major Nathan S. Boynton Center Building; The Historic Woman's Club of Boynton Beach; and The Addison of Boynton Beach. 16 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, Florida November 14, 2017 Board Member McCray did not favor the first option as it sounds like a museum and he noted there are other Addison buildings. He liked The Historic Woman's Club of Boynton Beach. Chair Grant agreed as did Vice Chair Katz and Board Member Romelus. Chair Grant opened the item to comment. Pat Waldron, Boynton Woman's Club member, and Michele Walter, 11242 Quail Covey Road, President of the Boynton Woman's Club, thought the members would agree to the Historic Women's Club of Boynton Beach. She noted the building is on the Local Register and the Historic National Register and queried if the building was renamed, if staff would contact the Register and update its name. Ms. Shutt agreed to check. She asked if they could leave the name alone and locally call it the Boynton Woman's Club. Mr. Simon thought there would be no issue. They thanked the CRA as the sale went well and they appreciated all of staff's work. Ms. Walter asked if they could keep the name as is until they get information on what to do to keep it on the National Register. Chair Grant explained there needed to be a distinction and staff was seeking to avoid confusion between the organization and the CRA. Staff will bring back information. Ms. Shutt advised staff researched other facilities with similar uses and venues and provided the information in the meeting backup. In reference to the rental rates, staff had proposed rates with discounts for local residents and entities, and separate rates for the non-local entities. They have rates for weekend and non-weekend rentals and for the first floor, second floor or the entire building. The CRA would need to charge set up and clean up fees and typical ancillary charges. Staff also wants to bring back policies and procedures and are determining the appropriate amount of insurance renters would need to purchase for their event. Vice Chair Katz and Board Member McCray supported the request as presented. Chair Grant asked if the Boynton Woman's Club would have to pay the rental fee and learned if the organization is located in the district, they get the discounted rates for special events. Chair Grant wanted to look at alternative structures. Board Member McCray agreed. Chair Grant requested Mr. Simon come back to speak with the President of the Woman's Club what they would like to see for the future of the building. Chair Grant wanted the Woman's Club to continue to use the building for their meetings free of charge. They meet twice a month on Thursdays and will forward their schedule. They do not require any extra setup, and they clean up after their meetings. If there is a special event that requires setup, the Woman's Club would pay the fee and all will be formalized in an agreement. It was noted no gala was planned for 201712018, only the regular meetings. Chair Grant commented if the Woman's Club does decide to have one, there would be one complimentary rental and just pay the set-up fee. Ms. Waldron commented if they have a gala, they would partner with the City and CRA because the funds would go towards a special project for the building. The Woman's Club wanted to stay involved and assist with items the building may need. 17 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, Florida November 14, 2017 Barbara Ready, 329 SW 13th Avenue, apprised the Board she is a member of the Board of Directors for the Boynton Beach Historical Society and they do not hold meetings every month. The Historical Society has used the Club for some of their meetings and their annual pot-luck dinner every May. She wanted to plant a seed as they are a non-profit and have made donations to the Women's Club and used the facility. She hoped they would receive some consideration regarding the pricing. Chair Grant noted organizations which have the words Boynton Beach or Boynton's name in it seemed to have been using the building for a long time. Kay Baker, 3303 Hayden Court, was present on behalf of the Boynton Beach Garden Club. At the invitation of the Woman's Club, the Garden Club has held meetings in the building for many years and in return, handled maintenance and the gardening around the building. They hoped they too would receive some type of consideration as a non- profit. They raise funds for scholarships and various activities, Accordingly, they do not have money. Chair Grant explained there were contracts not written associated with the Woman's Club and thought the Board would want to honor those informal agreements. They have to have a different government entity or non-profit rate. Vice Chair Katz explained the Board should accept the organizations that have used the facility and draw a line because every non-profit will want the same accommodation. Chair Grant emphasized this was for existing verbal contracts. The Woman's Club could provide a list and move forward with written contracts in the future. Ms. Waldron explained there was an understanding with the Garden Club and Historical Society. The Historical Society meets in the Library. They use the Woman's Club when the Library is closed on holidays. She also pointed out they do not know where the new Library will be placed temporarily in the future. Vice Chair Katz asked if there was anyone else who used the facility for an extended time, but learned they had in their rental rates, a lesser rate for non-profits. Vice Chair Katz recommended staff review the contracts and/or the understandings with the two organizations in relation to the Woman's Club, and grandfather them in so as to not be cost prohibitive. Many Women's Club members belong to the Garden Club and Historical Society. Ms. Shutt agreed to review the local and non-local rates, for residential and civic, and non—profits and for-profit groups. They would investigate special rates for the three existing non-profits that have used the building for years. The Boynton's Woman's Club will meet twice monthly, plus one complimentary gala and any other special events there will be set up and extra costs for clean-up. The Historical Society would hold their monthly meetings as well as considering a reduced rate for their annual pot-luck event in May and the Garden Club would use the building for their regular meetings and continue to meet there. There are different prices for rentals for local and 18 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, Florida November 14, 2017 non-local organizations. There was no difference in price between local and non-local entities, only for-profit and non-profit entities. Mr. Simon explained the facilities the City owns acknowledges residents with a discount rate or a non-profit, which was what the CRA emulated. The policies were at the Board's discretion. The CRA prices were slightly less. Vice Chair Katz noted the Board was only waiving the rental fee for the complimentary gala and was not picking up the tab for the event. He supported the resident, non-resident rates, but did not support creating a profit or non-profit tier, as non-profits would flood the calendar. Chair Grant agreed as did Board Members McCray and Romelus. Staff will come back with a rental procedure for the three aforementioned entities. Ms. Shutt explained all but the reroofing or roof replacement will be done by the end of the year. The air conditioning will be replaced as would the waterproofing of the elevator pit. The mold remediation should also be finished by the end of the year. The initial estimate exceeded $25,000 and they have to issue an Invitation to Bid. The contract for the successful bidder will return to the Board in February. The improvements will take place between events. Ms. Waldron noted the roof was installed 11 years ago. Ms. Shutt explained roofing experts inspected the roof and indicated it needed work. Staff was getting a second opinion. The underlayment where the building meets the roof needs additional flashing. The elements and workmanship determines how long the roof actually lasts. Board Member Romelus asked if the Garden Club would continue to maintain the gardens at the facility and learned the Garden Club was moving on to community gardens. Mr. Simon clarified the grounds are maintained by a professional landscaping company. The Garden Club is welcome to have special projects. They planted Bouganvillia on the east side of the building and only assisted with the front garden when warranted. If time allows and someone wants, they will see what they could do. Mr. Simon suggested supporting a special project in return for use of the building. H. Project Update 211 E. Ocean Avenue Motion Vice Chair Katz moved to table the item until Board Member Casello was present. Chair Grant explained staff sent the developer a letter in September about the project and they filed paperwork, but the City indicated more work was needed. Mr. Simon reminded them of their obligation to move forward in a timely manner. Staff met with them to discuss issues they were having, sent an email outlining the discussion points and the issues with the City, and then had a meeting November 9t" with the City plan reviewers, and the architectural firm on the project. The building was difficult to convert to a full service 19 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, Florida November 14, 2017 restaurant and the developer was constantly overcoming hurdles. Mr. Simon explained the upstairs of the building could not be used, even for storage, and the developer received another round of comments. He advised the architectural firm was responding to the City. Chair Grant noted there was some time went by with no communication. He thought if the developer did not answer the City's comments timely, they should use the reverter clause. Motion Board Member McCray also wanted to table the item and so moved. He announced he would like to receive a copy of the comments. The motion unanimously passed. XIV. New Business A. Discussion and Consideration of Changes to the Terms and Conditions for the Homebuyer's Assistance Program Agreement between Lasendra Hoggins Wilson and the CRA Board Member McCray announced he would make comments after the item was discussed. Lasendra Wilson, 508 NW 12th Avenue, explained she met with CRA staff and they crafted options for the Board to consider. One option was to allow her to rent the home because even if she considered selling the house, she did not know how long it would take to find a buyer. If rented, Ms. Wilson and her family go somewhere else and be safe. Another option is to speak with the CDC to see if they were interested in renting the home or purchasing the home. The last option is to sell the house, and the CRA waive the equity that would have to be returned. Board Member McCray asked how much equity was owed and learned the house appraised at $177,000. Ms. Williams owed the bank $65,000 leaving about $112,000 equity in the home. Chair Grant noted the CRA was entitled to 50% of the equity; however, Ms. Wilson would also have to pay back the amount of down payment assistance the CRA gave her, which was $47,000. Mr. Simon explained the document terms do not discuss payback of the amount of assistance that was provided to Mr. Wilson; only the equity. The program changed each year in philosophies and the amount of subsidies given increased and decreased and the terms and conditions of the grant were adjusted. In this case, there was a concern of limiting equity as part of an artificial benefit by providing assistance. The document tried to protect equity. If the Board wanted to remove the subsidy given by the CRA in addition to what she owed the bank, the CRA would split a different amount. Chair Grant thought the CRA should not recapture more money from the equity than the $47,000 subsidy given by the CRA. He noted Ms. Wilson would still be responsible for the mortgage and maintenance and was fine with Ms. Wilson using the property as an income producing property. 20 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, Florida November 14, 2017 Board Member McCray explained he had Incident Reports from the Police in the vicinity of the Cherry Hills Mini Mart, the old grey building which is a two-story structure noting there were numerous police calls to locations surrounding Ms. Wilson's property. He thought it was difficult for anyone to live under these kinds of conditions and she wants to move her family somewhere else that is safer. Chair Grant proposed Ms. Wilson rent the property and change the contract to recapture equity up to $47,000 because if she sells the house for $80,000 and the CRA required. $47,000, the CRA would receive more than 50% of the equity. Ms. Wilson advised the Board's proposal as stated by Chair Grant was acceptable. Mr. Simon asked if there was a time limit to lease until sold noting in year 2021, the amount of equity payback is reduced to 15%. Attorney Duhy advised she will add a sentence to the contract that in no instance shall the CRA collect more than /17% $47,000 in equity return. Brian Fitzpatrick, 409 NE 1st Street, commended Ms. Wilson for surviving at the location as there is crime all around her. He had previously written emails to the City Commission about 504 NW 12th Avenue. It is vacant and a drug haven and he sought to have the home demolished. He was glad the Board was assisting her, and noted there are already two drug houses in that area. His concern was someone could rent the house as a third drug house as certain people look for people to set up shop. He proposed the home be used for the Neighborhood Officer Program. Chair Grant commented if used as a drug house, it was subject to forfeiture and the landlord would not allow it. She would monitor the property. Mr. Simon explained the Neighborhood Officer Program location was contemplated to be located in the Ocean Breeze East site. Mr. Fitzpatrick commented Ocean Breeze East is years away and more police are needed in Cherry Hill to combat drug activities. Board Member McCray advised it was not that more police were needed, they do not need drugs in Cherry Hill. Board Member Romelus thought it was a conundrum to take one family out of the predicament and put another one in. She thought other alternatives were needed. Mr. Fitzpatrick thought it would be a hard property to market. Board Member Romelus requested confirmation Mr. Fitzpatrick favored the CRA purchase Ms. Wilson's property and thought the CRA should ask the City to start the nuisance abatement on the other property. Motion Attorney Duhy explained a motion to approve amending the contract to allow rental on the property and to cap the equity the CRA receives under any scenario to no more than., $47K property on the sale of the property. Board Member Romelus so moved. Board Member McCray seconded the motion that unanimously passed. 21 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, Florida November 14, 2017 B. Consideration of Purchase of Lot 13 on NW 10th Avenue Mr. Simon presented the item. The purchase price was $85K. Board Member McCray asked how many more properties in Sara Sims Park would the CRA have to buy and learned three more properties were needed. The CRA had approached the Lucci and Jenkins continuously and they are not selling because they want too much money. Board Member McCray asked if they would have to use eminent domain when the park is built and learned it is up to the Board. The property would immediately be incorporated into the new improvements that are being scheduled and designed and budgeted for this year with the City. The funds to purchase the property would come from the Property Acquisition line item. Motion Board Member McCray moved to approve. Board Member Romelus seconded the motion that unanimously passed. C. Discussion of Maintenance Costs for the Boynton Harbor Marina and the Fuel Discount Board Member McCray wanted to table the item as Board Member Casello had brought up the item and he was not present. (Board Member Romelus left the dais at 9:36 p.m.) Motion Board Member McCray so moved. Vice Chair Katz seconded the motion that unanimously passed. Board Member Romelus not present for the vote. D. Recap of Costs and Damages Associated with Hurricane Irma Mr. Simon commented the Board requested a report on the expense the CRA paid due to Hurricane Irma. The total was $11,114 for all CRA owned properties. A list was included in the meeting backup. E. Consideration of 2018 CRA Board Meeting Dates Mr. Simon explained staff drafts the schedule annually. The January 9th meeting falls on Palm Beach County days and staff investigated alternate meeting dates would could January 17 or 18t". There was agreement to meet on the 18t". It was also noted September 11th is on the eve of a Jewish holiday. There was agreement to meet on September 11 to (Board Member Romelus returned to the dais at 9:40 p.m.) 22 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, Florida November 14, 2017 F. Consideration of Purchasing Tickets for the Community Caring Center "Dream Come True Gala" on November 16, 2017 Vice Chair Katz noted the City already purchased a table and there was redundancy in expenditures. He did not favor any ticket purchases. The members advised they could not attend. David Katz, 67 Midwood Lane, asked if the CRA Advisory Board could attend if the Board purchased tickets. Vice Chair Katz advised the City purchased tickets and they could dispose of them however they wished. Mr. Katz explained had the item gone forward, this is what the legislators in Tallahassee were reviewing. Board Member Romelus thought the Board should set a precedent not to overlap things the City is doing and expenditures such as this. Attorney Duhy advised the CRA is governed by different spending regulations and this item was in a gray area. No tickets will be purchased. It was important to be transparent. XV. CRA Advisory Board A. CRA Advisory Board Agenda - November 2, 1027 B. Approval of CRA Board Meeting Minutes - October 5, 2017 C. Pending Assignments from CRA Board Meeting April 11, 2017 1. None D. Reports on Pending Assignments 1. Review Special Events Vendor Policy Regarding For-Profit and Non-Profit Vendors Linda Cross, 65 Casa Loma Boulevard, Unit 601, advised the Advisory Board Members reviewed the policy and explained for the most part, the policy was fine. They agreed the CRA should have flexibility to define the type of vendors wanted and to require vendors to operate within a theme from the event. They also agreed non-profits should have a tangible item to sell as opposed to having a donation bucket as that is not the purpose of the event. The CRA Advisory Board made some recommendations, primarily relating to the fees charged to vendors to participate in the event and to distinguish between non- profit and for-profit organizations in and outside of the City. She advised those were the three issues that should have tiered fees. Ms. Cross reviewed the fees. Chair Grant spoke with Mr. Simon. Fifty percent of the regular vendor fee means the CRA may be paying for businesses located within the City to come to these events. He preferred allowing them to participate at cost and giving local business and non-profits within the CRA, a one-week earlier deadline so they get dibs on any locations and giving 23 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, Florida November 14, 2017 that cost to the City. Regular fees would apply for any vendor outside of the City. Vice Chair Katz asked if doing so would result in premium space being taken away. Mr. Simon clarified the event planners and staff direct who goes where, but the idea was to have a window of opportunity to participate and secure one of the 100 spaces. Ms. Cross explained the purpose for the separate tier for business located in the CRA was because Pirate Fest was to promote economic development in the CRA District and now business in the CRA District participate for free. The Advisory Board supported charging the business, but less than everyone else to promote the CRA District. Chair Grant commented the purpose of the event is to attract people to the CRA District. Businesses already have a location near the CRA and they should advertise where they are before and after the event. Vice Chair Katz explained there was no prohibition against people acquiring a tent if they are a non-profit and not selling any wares. Mr. Simon explained the policy under discussion would require the sale of a tangible product. Vice Chair Katz thought it was a good idea. Mr. Simon advised staff supports the discussion of at cost because the vendor fee fluctuates. Board Member Romelus also agreed with the local at cost provision for CRA businesses and non-profits because there are many other amenities the CRA provides to them. Motion Board Member Romelus moved to approve amending the vendor policy as recommended by the CRA Advisory Board with the exception that businesses and non- profits located within the CRA District be provided a discount at cost instead of 50% and have a head start on the registration process. Vice Chair Katz seconded the motion that unanimously passed. Board Member Romelus thought this item arose because the Board was contemplating the special event grant and learned it was not. The CRA Advisory Board was to help develop the policies for non-profits as they apply for special events. She proposed the CRA Advisory Board evaluate the Special Event Grant even though it was not funded this year. She favored language to make it more clear that special event grants are to attract people to the downtown and the events have to take place in the CRA District. Chair Grant disagreed. The special event grants did not work out as they thought it would and the CRA has events other businesses can piggyback on such as the Celebration of Unity. Staff was trying to contact other organizations to partner in those events. Ms. Coppin agreed. She contacted BAPS and has not heard back from them. She spoke to an individual who approached the Board about the Celebration of Unity event who was interested in participating and contributing to the event. She will also meet with the MLK Committee later this month. Last year, the Board funded the MLK event $5,000 from special events in addition to the CRA running the event. This year, the CRA is running the event, contacting vendors and using the MLK committee as volunteers. The CRA 24 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Board Boynton Beach, Florida November 14, 2017 should not get into the business of subsidizing other people's events. The Board is working with them and not sponsoring them. The grant last year was a one-time grant. Vice Chair Katz thought not funding the event was a good idea as it was plagued with issues and only one religion was represented. He noted at a recent beer fest, they gave a percentage of their profit. Board Member Romelus agreed and thought the CRA Advisory Board should have looked it over. She requested it be reviewed. All agreed the Advisory Board could look at it. E. New Assignments from CRA Board Meeting October 10, 2017 1. None XVI. Future Agenda Items A. Boynton Beach Boulevard Streetscape Improvement Project Update B. Update on Community Caring Center Relocation XVII. Adjournment Motion There being no further business to discuss, Vice Chair Katz moved to adjourn. Board Member Romelus seconded the motion that unanimously passed. The meeting was adjourned at 10:01 p.m. /I P 1 (11 Catherine Cherry 01 Minutes Specialist 25