Minutes 09-11-18MINUTES OF THE COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY BOARD MEETING
HELD AT THE INTRACOASTAL CLUBHOUSE, 2240 N. FEDERAL HIGHWAY,
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2018, AT 6:30 P.M.
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Board Member McCray gave the invocation.
All members recited the pledge
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A. Additions, Deletions, Corrections to the Agenda
Mike Simon, Executive Director
Tara Duhy, Board Counsel
Chair Grant requested to move item 13-B before announcements and awards.
B. Adoption of Agenda
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Board Member Casello moved to approve the agenda as revised. Board Member Katz
r.econded the motion
Meeting Minutes
Community Redevelopment Agency Board
Boynton Beach, Florida September 11, 2018
A. 2018 Florida Festivals & Events Sunsational Awards
Tracy Smith- Coffey, Marketing and Business Development Specialist, introduced Cindy
Martin.
Cindy Martin serves as the Award Committee Chairperson. She explained the Florida
Festivals & Events Association (FFEA) was a statewide organization of professional
festival and event planners, managers and marketing from both the private and public
sectors. FFEA is a not -far -profit association dedicated to supporting and promoting more
than 3,500 festivals, events, and fairs in the state of Florida through education, networking
and dissemination of information, and the cultivation of high standards.
Ms. Martin indicated nominations were accepted in nine categories: Printed Materials;
Outdoor Advertisement; PR/Media Campaign; Photo; Promotional Item; T-shirt;
Broadcast Media; Multimedia Marketing and Programming. Each category included three
budget levels. A total of 140 events with 400 applications of their materials were submitted
for consideration. Palm Beach County was well represented with FFEA Members. Ms.
Martin advised Boynton Beach won 12 awards with only 3 staff members.
The Boynton Beach Community Redevelopment Agency received 12 Sunsational awards
for the following.
1st Place - Social Media Campaign: Boynton Beach Haunted Pirate Fest & Mermaid
Splash. 1st Place - Facebook Promotional Campaign: Boynton Beach Haunted Pirate
Fest & Mermaid Splash. 1st Place - Outdoor Banner: Boynton Beach Haunted Pirate
Fest & Mermaid Splash. 1 st Place - Event Photo: Holiday Tree Lighting & Concert.
2nd Place - PR/Media Campaign: Boynton Beach Haunted Pirate Fest & Mermaid
Splash. 2nd Place - Promotional Poster: Holiday Tree Lighting & Concert. 3rd Place -
Stage Banners: Blarney Bash. 3rd Place - Event Recap/Annual Report: CRA Annual
Report. 3rd Place - Radio Ad: Boynton Beach Haunted Pirate Fest & Mermaid Splash
3rd Place - Promotional item: Boynton Beach Haunted Pirate Fest & Mermaid Splash
3rd Place - Stage Back Drop: Boynton Beach MLK Celebration of Unity. 3rd Place -
Outdoor Signage (44 street sign): Boynton Beach & Delray Beach Holiday Boat Parade
Board member McCray congratulated all for a job well done.
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Meeting Minutes
Community Redevelopment Agency Board
Boynton Beach, Florida September 11, 2018
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Chair Grant opened the floor to public comment. Seeing no, one coming forward public
comments was closed.
A. Financial Report Period Ending August 31, 2018
B. Finance Department Purchase Orders for amounts exceeding $10,000 for
the month of August 2018
C. Approval of an Increase in Grant Funding for the Commercial Facade
Improvement Grant Program in the amount of $4,120 for Reflection Auto
Body, Inc. d/b/a Bruno's Auto Body & Paint located at 217 NE 3rd Street
D. Approval of an Increase in Grant Funding for the Commercial Facade
Improvement Grant Program in the amount of $4,120 for Reflection Auto
Body, Inc. d/b/a Bruno's Auto Body & Paint located at 217 NE 3rd Street
E. CRA Board Authorization for CRA Staff and Legal Counsel to release
Request for Proposals, Request for Qualifications, and Invitations to Bid for
Goods and Services in excess of $25,000
Chairman Grant asked for a motion to approve the Consent Agenda.
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Board Member Katz moved to approve the Consent Agenda. Board Member McCray
seconded the motion
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Community Redevelopment Agency Board
Boynton Beach, Florida September1
11. Pulled - Agenda r,
A. C.q�', Board Discussion and Consideration of Executive Director's Annui
Performance Review
Board Member McCray moved to remove from the table. Vice Chair Romelus seconded
the motion.
Motion unanimously passed.
Chair Grant noted the Board suggested researching comparable salaries to see other
CRA Director salaries and benefits.
Board Member Katz made a recommendation to move the compensation in line with the
City of Lake Worth and City of Delray Beach. Indicated the CRA have taken employees
from other municipalities and was always at risk of losing high caliber employees to
another agency. Board Member Katz stated he would like to see the difference between
the City of Lake Worth and the City of Delray which would be about $152,000. If Mr. Simon
would like to increase the other expenses such as car and cell telephone it would reduce
the base salary. Board Member Katz stated Mr. Simon was deserving of the increase.
Chair Grant suggested providing 10% wage increase, which would be $13,500. The car
allowance would remain the same. If needed the Board could discuss car and the cellular
telephone increases next year.
Board Member Katz stated he was supportive of this line of thought.
Board Member McCray explained he was in favor of a salary increase, but wanted to
caution there are other staff members which work with Mr. Simon. Board Member McCray
stated employees may only receive 3%. He understands staff was being tugged between
Delray and Lake Worth. When providing raises, the Board needs to be cognizance of all
the raises not just those on the top.
Board Member Casello stated he understood the CRA was a team effort and Mr. Simon
has been the quarterback for the team. Usually the quarterback receives a larger check.
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Meeting Minutes
Community Redevelopment Agency Board
Boynton Beach, Florida September 11, 2018
The last time this was discussed, he stated Mr. Simon was a progressive thinker. Noted
since Mr. Simon has come on board he has turned the CRA around 180 degrees. He
praised Mr. Simon for saving the City more than $100,000 for coming up with the idea to
use a CRA space for the temporary Library site. He was in agreement with the increase
between the City of Lake Worth and the City of Delray Beach.
Board Member McCray noted he was in agreement to provide a salary increase to Mr.
Simon. Board Member McCray said Mr. Simon did everything except walk on water.
Chair Grant asked if Board Member McCray had any suggestions as it relates to
percentage of an increase.
Board Member McCray suggested an 8% increase to the base salary.
Vice Chair Romelus noted she heard both sides of the story and concurred with Board
Member McCray. She wanted to spread the wealth throughout the agency and she would
make a counter offer of $10,000 and maintain the current benefits. This would bring the
Executive Directors salary up to $145,000. This would not be an unfair increase to other
staff members.
Attorney Duhy, CRA Attorney, informed the Board 10% would be $13,500 and 8%
would be $10,800.
Board Member McCray inquired why the Board was provided with salary information but
not operating expenses for each municipality. Mr. Simon replied staff was unable to
ascertain this information. Mr. Simon stated he could not do anything without his team
and could not imagine working with a finer group of people. He would certainly accept the
proposed 8% salary increase.
Vice Chair Romelus inquired if he was good with the 8%. Mr. Simon replied he was.
Board Member Casello asked if CRA staff compensation was in line with the surrounding
municipalities. Mr. Simon replied with the 2.5% increase from last year the staff was at
the midpoint of the surrounding municipalities. Mr. Simon also stated with the additional
ICMA staff were doing well.
Attorney Duhy suggested an amendment be made to the language in Mr. Simon's
contract.
Motion
Board Member Katz moved to approve an 8% salary increase for the current fiscal year
and amend the Executive Director contract clause. Board Member Casello seconded the
motion.
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Meeting Minutes
Community Redevelopment Agency Board
Boynton Beach, Florida September 11, 2018
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B. Discussion of the Goals and objective of the Neighborhood Office
Program, 2018/2019 (heard earlier in meeting) i
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directed, 171r. Simon met with Uhlet Gregory, Assistant Chief DeGiulio and Major Michael
Johnson. There was discussion of current goals and objectives for 2018/2019 for the
Neighborhood Officers Program. Mr. Simon informed the Board Chief Gregory requested
no changes should be made until he had an opportunity to interact with the officers in the
program.
Board member Katz said he requested this information because the program has been in
effect for a number of years. He respects the Chiefs decision not to make any changes.
He requested Chief Gregory come back the Board in 6 months for an update on the
program.
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Board Member McCray informed the Board he spoke with Chief Gregory and the Chief
had some plans which he called the second layer.
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Motion passed unanimously.
C. Consideration of Modifications to the Economic Development Grant Programs
for FY 2018-2019
Chair Grant read the item into the record.
Mr. Simon indicated staff met to discuss the grants and applicant procedures. There are
four grants for next year. The CRA staff was requesting changes such as combining
exterior and interior improvements into one grant program. Redefining tier one business
as any restaurant regardless of size or seating capacity, increasing 50% matching
reimbursable funding for the tier one business to $85,000 and tier two businesses to
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Meeting Minutes
Community Redevelopment Agency Board
Boynton Beach, Florida September 11, 2018
$50,000. Increasing the project time line from 120 days from permit approval to 180 days
from permit approval. This would provide an opportunity to prepare one application for
different programs. There was an increase eligibility for the roof as long as the item does
not exceed 50% of the total renovation cost.
Mr. Simon suggested removing the following businesses from the ineligible list to eligible,
Fitness centers, Kava coffee/tea bars, tattoo shops, and takeout food restaurants.
Vice Chair Romelus requested clarification on why the CRA decided these businesses
were now eligible for grants. Mr. Simon replied it was because of the square footage for
fitness centers, and tattoo piercing was a type of salon. Mr. Simon stated tattoos has
gained acceptance over the years. It is more mainstream; it does not have a stigma today
as it did in the past.
Vice Chair Romelus noted she was still a little leery of tattoo shops.
Board Member Katz informed the Board the City of Lake Worth was having this same
discussion. He was surprised because of their Subculture City. He does not view it in the
negative light. Noted tattoo parlors were a business like any other business. The City
should not have an exclusion of businesses. Inquired if there were any legal ramification
of not providing grants to a certain type of businesses. Asked if this could be considered
a form of discrimination. Inquired if the CRA has total discretion to approve or disapprove
businesses. Attorney Duhy replied the CRA has discretion.
Board Member Katz inquired was it fair to say, the City did not want a tattoo parlor on
Ocean Avenue. He believes this type of business should be in a different area, inquired
if that would be a problem. Attorney Duhy replied as long as the Board operates to
implement the CRA strategic plan, which can dictate certain types of uses in certain
locations and if it was tied to that, then it was up to the board's discretion.
Mr. Simon noted any of the uses which are in the City application default to the rules and
regulations of Planning and Zoning. Mr. Simon suggested limiting assistance to no more
than two grants per category per year.
Attorney Duhy responded to Board Member Katz's question regarding discrimination,
stating this was not a black or white issue. The CRA has discretion to determine how
much grant funding would be awarded and what type of business criteria was required.
When the CRA Board set criteria standards in the beginning grants are easier to
administer.
Chair Grant asked if it would be easier to have a tier 3 business that was conditional in
order to receive the economic development grants. Inquired if this was something which
could be done. Attorney Duhy replied yes.
Mr. Simon indicated this would be similar to a conditional use improvement.
Chair Grant asked if the CRA board could limit the new tier 3 to existing businesses. He
provided some examples of multiple pawn shops in the CRA district. Chair Grant stated
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Boynton Beach, Floridar 11, 2018
it would behoove the City to help the pawn shops with the exterior facade of the building
in the CRA district. He would like to recommend the CRA has a third tier which are
conditional for those businesses such as the tattoos/piercing, fast foods, and coffee
shops. Those businesses would need to show a reasonable basis to receive the grants.
Attorney Duhy noted the CRA Board needed to show consistency with the CRA plan.
Chair Grant indicated the CRA can make it so that only one business from each category
can receive the conditional tier 3 grant.
Board Member Casello inquired if the CRA will only allow a certain amount of businesses
in the CRA district. Attorney Duhy replied that would be a City function. Chair Grant
suggested that the CRA only provide one grant per category type, per tier. Board Member
Casello indicated this would take care of this issue.
Board Member McCray stated he wanted to take out food establishments. They wanted
this type of businesses to remain on the MLK corridor. He does not want to discourage
fast food restaurants.
Board Member Katz noted Board Member McCray did not want to place the fast food
establishments in tier three.
Chair Grant recommended takeout food restaurants to remain in tier two. The tier three
would include kava coffee/tea bars, tattoo parlors, pawn, liquor stores, auto body and
auto storage places.
Board Member Casello asked if there would be any zoning issues. Attorney Duhy
responded the purpose of this grant was to incentivize the area. The CRA plan has zoning
recommendations. These recommendations are tied to the CRA plan; the decision for
zoning was through the City not the CRA board.
Board Member Katz asked about the matching funds increase. Mr. Simon replied the
interior build -out was for $40,000, and the $25,000 was the maximum for the facade.
Board Member Katz noted the CRA has allocated $500,000 for grants and believes that
$50,000 and $85,000 would limit the amount of grant recipients. He would like to see
those amounts lowered. Mr. Simon replied staff could reduce the amounts of the grants.
Indicated more grants could be provided to more businesses.
Board Member McCray inquired about businesses which received grants from the CRA,
how many have gone out of business.
Mr. Simon stated about 1 % of the businesses which received funding are no longer in
business.
Vice Chair Romelus noted she would like to help as many businesses as possible.
Regarding the fitness centers, she believes this goes with subsidizing instead of
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Community Redevelopment Agency Board
Boynton Beach, Florida September 11, 2018
incentivizing. She believes the grant should be for small businesses and create jobs for
the local economy.
Board Member Katz asked if the CRA has the ability to impose a cap based on the value
of the business. Restrict the eligibility to non -corporations, or corporation which are in a
certain tax bracket. Certain national chains clearly do not need the grant funds to survive.
Mr. Simon responded Tsunami subs, Primo subs are a national brand, but are franchised.
Mr. Simon informed the Board of the assets of Banana Boat which invested over $2M in
renovations and received a $60,000 grant. Also Sunshine Square completed $10M
renovations and the CRA provided $60,000 in grant funding. Staff can come back with a
cap, size or gross profits for different businesses.
Vice Chair Romelus noted Banana Boat was a local entity with recognition. They have
millions of dollars and she does not have an issue helping them. Inquired as to the
ownership of Sunshine Square, Mr. Simon replied a real estate company.
Vice Chair Romelus advised she does not want to incentivize certain entities which clearly
did not need the funding. Businesses would accept grant funding because the funds were
available. The CRA needed to make sure the dollars go where it was needed the most.
Mr. Simon replied he believed they were on the right track.
Chair Grant stated he did not agree; the CRA are limited funds for available grants. Any
businesses which come to the City of Boynton Beach would employ Boynton Beach
residents. The local residents support the businesses.
Board Member Casello noted some of the national chains such as Subway were operated
by individuals who live, play and work in Boynton Beach.
Vice Chair Romelus clarified her original example such as LA Fitness. She agreed with a
franchise owner. She wanted like to craft language which allows for the CRA to provide
funding to deserving small businesses, not mega giants. She would prefer to redirect
those funds to individuals who live here and pay taxes here.
Board Member Katz supports small businesses. He does not want to discourage big
businesses but they need to incentivize small businesses.
Chair Grant indicated he does not know where the discussion was at this point.
Mr. Simon responded the Board suggested adding an additional tier three, which included
conditional approvals to such businesses as Kava coffee shops, tattoo/piercing parlor,
pawn shops, auto body, and auto storage. Reducing grants awards for the three tiers
Indicated the amounts have not been discussed, but he indicated a potential of $50,000
for a tier one and $25,000 to $30,000 for tier two to help more businesses.
Chair Grant recommended making national business subject to their net assets to be
made at a later date. Chair Grant suggested have the roof grant receive only 50% of the
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Community Redevelopment Agency Board
Boynton Beach, Florida September 11, 2018
total grant available. Chair Grant informed the Board he spoke with CareerSource about
having an orientation or training period grant. This grant would provide certain businesses
would be hired from the program to receive 50% funding for those attending the
orientation.
Attorney Duhy, Board Counsel responded it was within the CRA discretion to prioritize
which businesses would be given grants. This would allow more flexibility on a
case -by- case basis.
Board Member Katz asked would this be something which could be exercised at any point
during the fiscal year. As an example, there was only $50,000 left and the Board had two
applicants, can the board decide to award to the small business? Ms. Simon replied the
board could award to the small business. The Board directs the use of priority of small
businesses, local franchisee versus a non -local business. Board Member Katz asked if
there was enough grant money left, and what was clearly a larger business, could the
CRA board give the preference to the smaller business? Asked if it needed to be at the
end of the "pot"? Attorney Duhy, responded the priority would be determined by the
Board. Explained the language could say small businesses, local businesses bringing in
a certain amount of employees.
Vice Chair Romelus requested some draft language at the next meeting as well as the
grant amounts presented by Mr. Simon with the reduction of tier one and tier two.
Chair Grant requested a motion.
Vice Chair Romelus moved to approve with the changes made. Seconded by Board
Member Katz.
Unanimously passed.
D. Consideration of Resolution N. R18-02 Adopting the CRA Budget for FY
2018-2019
Ms. Vicki Hill, CRA Finance Director, presented the budget. The only difference was the
rollover amounts.
Board Member Katz inquired if there were additional funds which were not allocated. Ms.
Hill replied the rollovers from 2017/2018 would rollover to 2018/2019.
Ms. Simon noted $1.2M the Board has not seen. These were funds not re -allocated. This
was the official budget approval.
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Community Redevelopment Agency Board
Boynton Beach, Florida September 11, 2018
Board Member Katz stated the Board had already discussed what rollovers would be
kept.
Ms. Hill replied these are the rollovers that are final. The Martin Luther King (MLK) corridor
have an additional $400,000 added, now it was $1.6M.
Board Member Katz indicated the Board has already discussed these items. For lack of
desire to scrutinize what was already done, he wanted to move on.
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Board Member Katz moved to approve with the rollover as described. Board Member
McCray seconded the motion.
Chair Grant inquired about the business promotional event budget. Ms. Hill replied there
were $20,000 in rollovers. It changed to the amount to $539,000 with an additional
$10,000 for the Marina Dive tournament event, which would bring the total to $549,000.
Chair Grant asked if the CRA were hosting a holiday tree lighting event this year. Mr.
Simon replied this was not an event the CRA was doing this year.
Chair Grant inquired if the City of Boynton Beach was sponsoring a tree lighting event.
Mr. Simon replied the City notified the CRA there would be a holiday parade, but nothing
was mentioned or supported a tree lighting event. Chair Grant asked if this was something
which the CRA could sponsor. Mr. Simon responded, he did not feel the event was closely
related to economic development. He suggested having the City of Boynton Beach
sponsor this event. He believed the City could put up some extra lighting.
Chair Grant said lights come cheap, the question was the manpower. If the Board could
put in extra money toward the December 2018 Rock the Plaza with a tree with lights there,
could this be possible.
Board Member Katz asked the location of the December 2018 Rock the Plaza event.
Chair Grant suggested some possibilities such as Sunshine Square, One Boynton or
Ocean Palm Plaza. Indicated all of them have trees and electrical outlets. He would like
to continue the tradition of the annual tree lighting without the cost of $70,000. Asked if
this was ok to have an additional $5,000 to go to the 2018 Rock the Plaza event.
Board Member Katz asked how the $5,000 was being allocated. Chair Grant responded
it was up to the CRA staff to find the lighting, pay for the electrical for the plaza owner.
Board Member Katz asked about the date of the Boat Parade. Board Member Casello
replied December 14, 2018. Board Member Katz asked if there was a way to try to
incorporate some form of tree lighting, in conjunction with the Boat Parade. Mr. Simon
replied the Board has given direction to stave with regards to incorporating the tree
lighting into the Boat Parade event. He does not think it needs to be identified specifically
for the budget approval. This was additional direction with existing events which would be
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Community Redevelopment Agency Board
Boynton Beach,• •September1
approved. Attorney Duhy indicated if a budget amendment was necessary at that time,
this item can come back to the Board.
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Chair Grant motion for the budget approval with the direction of a tree lighting to be
available at the Holiday Boat Parade. Commissioner McCray seconded the motion.
Attorney Duhy wanted to clarify the motion for approval was for Resolution No. R18-02
Adopting the CRA Budget for FY 2018 — 2019 and providing for an effective date which
has been presented.
Board Member Casello asked if the costs for the Holiday Boat parade were being shared
with any other Cities. Mr. Simon replied the City of Delray was matching all of the
marketing expenses related to the joint effort. Each City was taken care of costs on their
own site. Board Member Casello noted he like the idea of the tree lighting at the Boat
Parade. The most successful tree lighting was after the holiday parade with a large
number of people.
Vice Chair Romelus asked about the $100,000 in the contingency fund.
Ms. Hill replied this was for hurricanes and other disasters. This fund rolls over each year.
Board Member Katz asked if there were restrictions if the board would try to do something
on the bridge. Mr. Simon responded there are many different agencies which must be
coordinated in order to do anything with the bridge. Chair Grant stated the intracoastal
bridge was part of the Federal Government.
Chair Grant acknowledged there a motion with a second on the table.
Vote
Unanimously passed.
E. Consideration of Responses to a RFP/RFQ for Redevelopment of CRA -Owned
Properties within the MILK, Jr Boulevard Corridor
Attorney Duhy stated after the presentation staff could do a summary, and choose the
appropriate respondent. A ranking sheet has been provided for board rankings.
Michael Pecar, Neighborhood Renaissance, Inc., Real Estate Development
Director, thanked the board for the opportunity to present the proposal of the MILK
corridor. Mr. Pecar provided some information on Neighborhood Renaissance, Inc.
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Community I eAgency Board
Boynton Beach, FloridaSeptember 11, 2018
Currently Neighborhood Renaissance was working with the CRA in the City of Lake Worth
completing the construction of Westwood Art lofts. This was a community of 8 townhomes
for sale to artistic and creative households, four of these townhomes are available for low
income households through the purchase assistance program which Neighborhood
Renaissance were awarded through the County. Also included was a 200 square foot
commercial building which was being offered at an affordable rent to attract established
new innovative businesses in the City of Lake Worth. In August construction began on
Mango Cove, a 36 apartment unit community on Florida Mango Road which will be ready
for occupancy in 2019. The rents will be below market value. These units are affordable
to households earning less than 120% of the area median income. Their partner was
Palm Beach County.
Mr. Pecar introduced his team to the Board. Stated the executive team has more than
90 years of experience in all aspects of commercial and residential development.
The proposal consists of a mixed use, mixed income project with three
components: Commercial space, affordable apartments, and infill homeownership
opportunities. The commercial component consists of two 4,300 square foot buildings,
built in two phases, within the CRA -owned parcels located at the northwest portion of the
corridor. The commercial/retail component consists of a mix of retail/cafe shops,
restaurants, exercise classes and personal care services, office space, daycare or pre-
school, and/or neighborhood services with affordable rent preference for local businesses
and initial offering to other nonprofit/community based organizations. On the CRA -owned
parcels, south of MLK Jr. Boulevard. Neighborhood Renaissance has proposed 80
affordable multi -family rental units, and six attached "live -work" townhouse units with
studios on the ground floor fronting MLK Jr. Boulevard. Neighborhood Renaissance has
also included single-family homeownership opportunities of $180,000 to mid $220,000's,
up to 120% of Area Median Income (AMI) and a 15 -year maintenance of affordability
period, for the remainder of the CRA -owned parcels scattered throughout the eastern
portion of the corridor. The overall project design is generally consistent with the CRA's
urban and architectural design guidelines.
Financing was proposed using CRA owned parcels with $1.2 million in CRA funds plus
an additional $400,000 in CRA funding as a loan for construction of the commercial
portion of the project. Financing for the 80 -unit apartment complex would be either
through SAIL (State Apartment Incentive Loan) funding, 4% Low Income Housing Tax
Credit (LIHTC) funding, non-competitive tax-exempt bonds, or CRA Tax Increment
Revenue funding (TIF), depending on various conditions and assumptions. If SAIL
funding is used in conjunction with tax exempt bonds and 4% LIHTC. The townhouses
would be built as "for sale units". The applicant, Neighborhood Renaissance, intends to
lease the commercial space at below market rents and encourages the creation of an
urban gardening program and other community engagement activities to take place within
the area. Local hiring and training and community benefit programs and goals have also
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Community Redevelopment Agency Board
Boynton Beach, Florida September 11, 2018
been incorporated into the proposal utilizing a local nonprofit to provide outreach and
resources to and from the community.
A comprehensive approach to the redeveloped of the Martin Luther King corridor includes
three components, affordable rents, attractive commercial and retail usage and home
ownership. This proposal includes a commercial retail building on the CRA's north parcel
which will provide economic growth opportunity to local entrepreneurial and business
owners as well as needed goods and services to the existing and new residents of the
Heart of Boynton. There will be an apartment complex, which will be affordable to
household income which would be less than 60% of AMI. There is a mix of
homeownership, single family and townhomes. South of the retail are six live work lofts.
The plan was to develop all three components at the same time for maximum impact.
This approach has worked in the past. The cost of this development was over $27M.
Neighborhood Renaissance was asking the CRA for the investment of land, lump sum
contributions, loans and annual tax increment funding. The commercial building and plaza
will need an investment of $1.6M, the apartment complex which has from 80 to 100 units,
would have a variable investment, it was dependent on whether or not they receive Florida
Housing Financing funding as the SAIL around as low as $2.8M to as much as $6.8M if
they are unsuccessful with Florida Housing Finance. The construction of ten homes and
townhomes will require purchase assistance to the buyers of approximately $34,000
each. This was a large commitment. If the entire program was implemented this would
be a catalyst for future private investment in the corridor and in the Heart of Boynton. The
CRA and the community return of its investment will yield many economic and community
benefits.
Mr. Pecar indicated the apartment development was a maximum of four story building.
The parking was hidden from the public street and sidewalks behind the building. The
building was setback from the property line in order to accommodate water, sidewalks,
canopy, trees, landscaping, street parking and new street lighting. The apartment
complex would be completed November 2021. The proposal required acquiring private
property. It is and was included in the costs. There have been conversations with the
private owners and if selected their plan was to enter into negotiation with the private
owner during the due diligence period to have a purchase contract in place to make an
application with the Florida Housing Finance. The financing strategy would include
making the SAIL application November 27, 2018 for approximately $6.2M of SAIL funds
to be used with 4% tax credits and bonds. If they are unsuccessful they could use the
CRA tax increment revenues in the amount $625,000 per year with 4% tax credits and
bonds. The other alternative would require no contribution except for land from the CRA.
This would require to wait one year for the next round of 9% tax credits. The current 9%
tax credits were due October 25, 2018. In all cases they would pursue other financing
and subsidy sources including the impact fees that the County has for affordable housing
each year.
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Community Redevelopment Agency Board
Boynton Beach, Florida September 11, 2018
The first phase of commercial development includes a 4400 square foot retail building
and a public plaza. The parking was behind the building. The plaza could be used for
farmers and craft markets and entertainment events during the year. They hope to be
able to attract people from the Heart of Boynton and outside as well to introduce them to
what they have to offer. The retail building includes three to four micro retail units which
were as small as 250 square feet and can be leased for a period as short as one week to
6 months. This will give the opportunity for the entrepreneur the ability to test their
concepts. They see them being leased by craftsman's, artist, inventers, smoothies, ice
cream or bakery shops. Mr. Pecar indicated this could be done by June 2020. The
financing strategy would be the rents will support a $300,000 first mortgage, a CRA
contribution of $1.2M, a 20 -year loan from the CRA of $400,000 and a tax increment
funding for 15 years at $12,000 per year. An alternative was called an opportunity fund,
which provides equity and loans at a blended rate of 3.2%, which brings down the cost of
financing.
Homeownership includes six live/work townhomes which are adjacent to the apartment
complex and across the street from the retail plaza. They have up to four townhomes or
single-family homes on the balance of the block would be offered for SAIL to the
owner/occupant for the price of $180,000 to $220,000, which was affordable for
households earning less than 120% of the area median income (AMI). It would require a
subsidy of approximately of $34,000 per unit. Mr. Pecar stated they have a good track
record on their homeownership projects of obtaining Federal, County and local funds for
down payments assistances for the buyers. The completion time would vary. They would
be working with the Faith Based Community Development Corporation (CDC) for
community input during site plan and building design. The CDC will implement the local
hiring and procurement program to use local workers for the projects.
The benefit would be an increase in real estate tax bases by an investment of $27M, and
increase the availability of affordable housing in the area. They want to create a
homeownership market in and around the MLK corridor. The new community serving
uses would be valuable, including the retail commercial and office space which was being
provided. Economic development by bringing in jobs during construction and permanent
employment during the operation of the retail commercial stores.
Board Member McCray asked if the Neighborhood Renaissance was awarded the
contract when they would begin to schedule meetings to hear what the community wants.
Mr. Pecar replied they will work with the CDC. Neighborhood Renaissance has been in
the City of Boynton and they will work with the Coalition of Clergy along with the other
neighborhood groups.
Board Member McCray asked how fast would Neighborhood Renaissance meet with the
community. Mr. Pecar advised as soon as they are selected.
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Boynton Beach,r r. September1
Board Member McCray inquired who was responsible for the advertisement. Mr. Pecar
responded they would be responsible with the help of the local CDC. They take full
responsibility for all the advertisement of community input meetings.
Board Member Casello inquired if he could go over the finance plan and what was he
looking for from the CRA. What was the best and worst scenario?
Mr. Pecar replied for the retail they need $2M in construction for a 4400 square feet
building. The affordable rents; they rent would support a first mortgage of $300,000 and
in addition they need to make up $2M. They are requesting $1.2M of CRA contributions,
$400,000 a loan of 20 years to be paid back to the CRA. And the TIF created by the
project, that would be $12,000 per year for 15 years.
Board Member Casello indicated he wanted to clarify what was needed, $1.2M in cash,
$400,000 loan, and $12,000 per year of TIF funding.
Board Member Katz asked if that included the CRA land as well.
Board Member McCray asked how successful they had been with receiving tax credits.
Mr. Carlos Toledo, Development Manager noted the 9% tax credit process was
extremely competitive. Explained sometimes it has taken years to complete a project.
Local government contributions are required, which was usually $600,000 and there was
competition against other municipalities and other Counties. It was difficult.
Board Member Casello stated the last one that they went through was with Ocean Breeze
East there were 34 applicants. Once they won they had to go to court to verify.
Mr. Toledo stated 34 within the six large County area. For each county there was a certain
amount. The local government match was $600,000.
Mr. Pecar said there are three different opportunities during a 12 -month period. There
was the 9%, there was the SAIL which was due November 22, 2018, that was not as
competitive as the 9%, there was another one, which applies to redevelopment agency.
The fourth one was they try to go on their own, the CRA tries to fund the project
Board Member Katz asked for the best and worst case scenario. Mr. Pecar replied this
was for the commercial not residential. The apartment development was an 80 to 100
unit building. This was a $27M project.
Board Member Katz summarized the total financial break down. If 9% tax credit was used
the CRA would need to pay a certain percentage. Board Member Katz stated he would
like to see a side by side comparison.
Mr. Pecar stated he had most of the parameters. If they received $6.2M from the State
for the SAIL fund, the request to make up the gap would be $200,000 per year. About
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Community Redevelopment Agency Board
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$2.8
r - •-
$2.8M was the present value. Without any help from the State they would need $6.8M
which is essentially what the SAIL would have provided.
Board Member Katz indicated the CRA does all the heavy lifting. He likes the idea of what
was done for Ocean Breeze East. If the tax credits fail, they would be able to move the
project forward.
Board Member Casello asked the value of the land owned on MLK. Mr. Pecar stated the
estimated value of the land was $800.000.
Chair Grant noted Neighborhood Renaissance did not include the area east of Northeast
9 Avenue or NE 3rd street. This was a current vacant lot CRA owns. Mr. Pecar asked if
this was near the railroad tracks. The budget was part of the MLK Corridor. Mr. Pecar
stated it was zoned Commercial and the Community Caring Center was going to build a
facility there.
Chair Grant noted there was still uncertainty about the Community Caring Center. Asked
if this was something he was willing to work with the Community Caring Center, Mr. Pecar
agreed there was a lot of opportunity to work with the Community Caring Center.
Board Chair noted he has been speaking with people regarding moving the historic
Woman Center of Boynton Beach. Currently that facility has 22 parking spaces, which
was not enough parking. He believes this would revitalize that area. Inquired if that was
something his company was willing to do.
Mr. Pecar confirmed they would definitely make it available.
Chair Grant indicated he has gone to the Grandview Market and they have revitalized the
area. He does not think the small retail spaces will revitalize the area. The community has
been asking for a grocery store or a larger consignment shop.
Board Member McCray did not agree with moving the Women's Center to the MLK
corridor. He wanted to see an analysis.
(Vice Chair Romelus left dais at 8:96 pm)
Paul Bilton, Centennial Management, thanked the CRA for the opportunity to bring a
vision of La Brisas Estates to the City of Boynton Beach. Centennial Management has
been in the affordable housing business and the development business for almost 40/
years. They have developed more than 3000 residential units, most of which were
affordable. Centennial Management has partnered with the City of Hallandale Beach,
Miami, and Town of Davie to complete affordable housing communities. They have
worked with the City of Boynton Beach CRA to create Ocean Breeze East. Centennial
Management has the ability to do everything from A to Z, from acquisition, development,
which includes a construction division, as well as property managers. They specialize in
Meeting Minutes
Community Redevelopment Agency Board
Boynton Beach, Florida September 11, 2018
multisource financing, provided letters of commitments from various banks and various
options. Centennial Management current portfolio includes 3000 residential units, 900
square feet of residential and commercial buildings. Part of the plan was to approach
Florida Housing Finance Corporation for tax credit funding, or SAIL funding.
Centennial Management was committed to providing 2500 square feet of commercial
space. The site plan would vary based on the number of units which the CRA would prefer
them to pursue.
The maps are where they show which properties can be acquired by private owners and
the CRA. The most viable financing option was 1 -A. Centennial Management would build
90 units, apply for tax credits to do so without acquiring land from anyone else. If they fail
to get the tax credits they would move on to SAIL funds. If that did not work, they would
speak with the City about TIF fund. Centennial was willing to purchase the lots on the
North and South for $2M, if the City of Boynton Beach CRA would give them up to three
years to go through the application cycle. Centennial Management were willing to give
the CRA a riverter clause so the property would go back to the City.
Chair Grant stated the 13th option, the CRA would not get any of the Florida Housing Tax
Credits, Centennial Management has the option of the CRA grant of $1.2M plus the CRA
tax incremental revenue for 15 years for a total of $1.5M. Mr. Bilton replied yes. Chair
Grant asked if that was the worst case scenario. Mr. Bilton stated that was one which
would not be talked about when you see the TIF amount. This would be the worst case
scenario.
Chair Grant stated there are so many different options available. Asked if there was
anything else other than the financing for the MLK corridor. Chair Grant indicated the CRA
was looking for retail. Asked about the Bell property which included Robinson Barbeque.
Chair Grant stated he believed the property was zoned MU1 not MU2.
Mr. Bilton responded the representative for the Bell properties was asking $2M for a
property which would generate only 12 units.
Board Member McCray inquired how Centennial received the project name. Indicated
they are not a Spanish District. The Board want the MLK corridor to be a vibrant place
with various shops, they do not want a housing project.
Ms. Swezy indicated the City was investing a lot of money to revitalize the area.
Board Member McCray said he understands and wants to go for a thriving City. He cannot
support a housing project on MLK Boulevard.
Board Member Katz said the potential residential units has the potential to have some
retail units.
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Community Redevelopment Agency Board
Boynton Beach, Florida September 11, 2018
Mr. Swezy stated they would be more than happy to do that. Many times they build them
and they remain empty. They are willing to close on the land to help the City recoup the
money they have already invested and provide a beautiful new community redevelopment
with new apartments.
Board Member McCray stated when you build them they may come. The Board was
looking for retail.
Chair Grant indicated there was a cost to have retail that was something that could be
discussed. The Board was trying to select a partner to move forward with the MLK
corridor.
Mr. Bilton stated in order to fund the retail portion, they were willing to pay $2M. There
was a lot of flexibility.
Board Member McCray stated he understands they are willing to work with staff and the
City. But what he does not hear was that they were willing to work with the citizens.
Vice Chair Romelus thanked Mr. Bilton for the financial breakdown. First of all, this project
was missing the homeowner aspect. The City wants to create affordable housing, but
also create a vibrant business community. Vice Chair Romelus felt there was no honor
being given to an historically black community. Stated there was a lot of work which
needed to be done. She was not sure if it was on the CRA part, but she was expecting
something different.
Board Member Casello stated he does not feel they should go on a racial divide. The City
can build some property and the property remain empty. We are trying to break down the
racial barriers. It was for the good of the whole City. It was not about the Black community
versus the White Community. People from all districts should be able to shop. Board
Member McCray stated they are not trying to racially divide the City. Every City in America
has a historically black community. They have their own identity. Many things were taken
away from the Black people in Boynton Beach. We have heritage, this was not racially
divided. Vice Chair Romelus pointed out Board Member Casello was a person of non -
black origin, and did not have that experience. This was never a black or white issue. This
was historically a black neighborhood. She believes they have an obligation to attract
other people when they come to see a historically black area. Vice Chair Romelus wanted
to honor community. She was not asking for a divide. They are asking for the revitalization
of their neighborhood
Board Member Katz related in regards to the cultural component, he assumed the cultural
component would be the art component. He believed that plaques pay homage.
He has a couple of concerns. He liked both companies; having those dollar comparisons
would be nice, some type of comparable, which may change the dynamic. CRA staff
direction should provide a comparison. He would like to see it side by side. There was
no urgency to approve now versus 30 days from now. The $2M for the Bell property would
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Community Redevelopment Agency Board
Boynton Beach, Florida September 11, 2018
produce 11 units, was mind blowing. He said personally, in supporting any proposal, that
if the CRA would not put in some heavy funding, if they were not willing to negotiate a
reasonable cost.
Vice Chair Romelus asked what they were willing to change about the proposal, such as
homeownership aspect, incorporating more retail space, single family housing. Mr. Swezy
said currently their plans did not incorporate those lots. They can build single family
housing. Vice Chair Romelus asked about the adjacent lots to build single family housing
for home ownership. Mr. Swezy replied they can build some townhomes. Vice Chair
Romelus asked about retail on the first floor. Mr. Swezy indicated it was possible to have
some retail space. Centennial Management was willing to work with the City.
Chair Grant said looking at the RFQ, on CRA property, the future land use map which
was given was mix use low. What controls the mix use low at density cap 20 units per
acre? The mistake was made with 40 units. Mr. Swezy replied the CRA staff requested a
review on those recommendations on both the east and west side. In the new zoning
matrix, there was a one, two and three. There are areas which allow for a 30, 40 units.
This was something which could be discussed.
Chair Grant stated MU2 was not in the current future land use. Mr. Swezy stated they
needed to do a land use change. The City Commission and the process governs the
City's direction.
Mr. Swezy stated the vision in the plan was for multiple units.
Chair Grant asked if they were moving forward with the ranking. They have the ranking
system which the CRA staff completed. Board Member Katz said as it pertains to the
ranking system, the board never ranked any of the proposals which staff completed. It
seems the impetus of more control, to provide an opportunity to do this. He has a personal
philosophy, they are elected officials, political and objective. He viewed the ranking to be
an expert analysis, which was political and objective. He was not going to complete the
scoring form. He lacks any expertise to evaluate applicants on this level. He believes this
was the responsibility of staff. Board Member McCray said he was on the same avenue
as Board Member Katz. In his option a lot was lacking in both presentations. He did not
see any retail. He needed to rely on staff. The first one did not give any comparison, the
last one did not emphasize retail. They need more time to go through this again. He was
not satisfied. Chair Grant agreed with Board Member Katz. He would prefer staffs'
ranking. Board Member McCray asked staff if they have seen the presentations or were
they as confused as the Board.
Mr. Simon responded there was potential in whichever organization would be selected to
begin some discussion. Staff will take the comments tonight and bring back more details
or begin some discussion in greater detail with the selected respondent.
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Board Member McCray asked when staff will meet with the citizens in Boynton to find out
what they want. There need to be dialog. We needed to make sure that we are on the
same page.
Mr. Simon envisioned this process being similar, once a company was selected, to
discuss the different options and what they were willing to commit. As with Town Square
they had four or five meetings with the citizens regarding the themes. There was an
opportunity to engage the community with the developers, rather than just trying to have
the developer to figure it out.
Board Member McCray noted when all of this started the CRA, held charrette in District
2. The citizens in District 2 met several times.
Mr. Simon responded the CRA have the records from 2014 and 2016. Board Member
McCray stated they met in the 90's. Inquired if anyone have those records.
Vice Chair Romelus stated she would not be ranking the individuals. She believes this
process was a wash. She does not feel that either applicant brought back what the Board
was looking for. She believes they need to go back to the drawing board.
Board Member Katz stated as a reflection and a recommendation, Mr. Simon described
this project, as having a number of variables, unlike Ocean Breeze East. The proposal
cast a large net. The Board said they did not want to bind or restrict the market demands.
Both companies are highly qualified applicants. When too many options are given it
becomes detrimental. Board Member Katz stated he trusts Mr. Simon and his staff. He
would recommend coming back before the Board within 30-90 days to narrow the scope.
Attorney Duhy stated the board has options. One would be to have staff to do an analysis
and make a more detail presentation of the financial options. would be possible for the
Board to agree on criteria or assignments and ask each of the proposer to give them a
certain period of time, during which time they could present different proposals for
development.
Vice Chair Romelus indicated she would take the Board Attorney's advice in terms of
having a 60 -day period to allow for both applicants to come back with something which
was more amenable to the Board; such as homeownership, retail, and honoring the black
community.
Board Member Casello thanked both applicants for responding to the RFP. He
understands it takes a lot of hard work and time to put this type of thing together. His
question was it help the applicant to have some talks with the community and come back
with more of a focus or idea what the community wanted. Board Member Casello stated
they know what the board wants, but they would know what the community was asking.
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Mr. Simon stated there was public here this evening and they could add to the discussion.
Board Member McCray seconded the motion.
Board Member Katz directed staff to give applicants 60 days to fine tune their
presentation.
Mr. Simon stated having a few specific items the Board would like the applicants to work
on was the key to releasing the companies.
Chair Grant asked can they extend the RFP and the cone of silence for another 30 days
based upon the new requirements.
Attorney Duhy stated there was no need to extend the cone of silence because there was
no selection made. All of the dates were variables. It purposed the board could come
back in October. The cone of silence applied until a decision is made. Mr. Simon was
directed to recite the criteria to both applicants.
Chair Grant stated Centennial Management was speaking about a November tax credit,
and if we extend this they would not be able to get any type of housing tax credit for this
fiscal year. They would need to wait until the next fiscal year.
Vice Chair Romelus stated she was not in a rush, especially since one of the applicants
was proposing to try to get the 9% tax credit. There was no rush. Chair Grant stated he
feels there was a rush to get development on MLK. Vice Chair Romelus stated she
agreed, but she wanted it right.
Board Member Katz clarified the new information required to select a name to pay
homage to the local community and culture, incorporate mixed use to allow for additional
retail commercial development on the first floor, to allow for a walkable avenue, affordable
housing is preferred. He does not know what to do in regards to the homeownership
opportunities because when building multifamily units and four stories it becomes harder
to sell condos in economically depressed area versus renting them. He does not know if
this was being a conversion at a later date. He does not know what the direction of the
Board would be in regard for homeowner opportunities when you are talking about not
building single family units or townhomes versus the condos/apartments. These are the
things he believes need to be fine-tuned.
Vice Chair Romelus noted she would like to hear from Mr. Simon if there was anything
which needed further clarification.
Board Member Casello noted the applicants have direction.
Chair Grant stated he agrees with Board Member Katz regarding the homeownership
opportunities. The CRA has provided homeowner opportunities in the Cottage District.
There were 11 new homes available on N.W. 11 Avenue. Advised multifamily housing
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and affordable homes do not work well in the same area. Vice Chair Romelus responded
she would like to be given options.
Chair Grant requested a breakdown. Mr. Simon replied Board Member Katz presented
the opportunities: review of the cultural neighborhood, component of the mixed use,
walkability component, some type of possibility of a townhouse or some other type of
homeownership within the zoning areas. In addition to those he would add further
detailing of the financial planning, recognizing it maybe several options. As a development
community, he would expect them to hone in on the best ones. It does not matter if it was
5 or 6, 13 was too much, 2 was not enough. Which would be easier to do with the
2dditional time being allotted.
Chair Grant inquired about the deadline for staff to review. Attorney Duhy stated it was
November 11 th would be 60 days.
Chair Grant asked how much time would staff need for the November 11 th meeting. Mr.
Simon responded by October 26. Mr. Simon stated 60 days to bring back to the Board
th
was November 13
Chair Grant asked how much time would staff need. The Board would not look at it until
October 29th. Mr. Simon stated the Board will direct the same evaluation committee to
work together.
Vice Chair Romelus noted this was being reviewed by staff. Mr. Simon indicated yes.
Chair Grant stated he would like to see their numbers.
Chair Grant stated there was a motion for 60 days to be extended based upon the new
requirements.
Attorney Duhuy believed the motion was to approve direction to proposers as stated by
Executive Director Simon.
181=1 -- - 11111YFFFFF
drive up the costs of the project. Don't be dissuaded from the discussion. There was
consensus on the Board to try to move this project forward, they are looking to invest, if
the price tag goes up and what the community wants and it fits, then they will move
forward.
Mr. Simon stated they placed an additional $400,000 in next years budget, it was $1.6M
instead of $1.2M.
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Community Redevelopment Agency Board
Boynton Beach, Florida September 11, 2018
Vice Chair Romelus suggested doing their homework on this community.
F. Update Regarding the Sunrise City CHDO and the CRA Owned Properties
Located at NE 4th and NE 5th Avenues, a/k/the Cottage District
Thuy Shutt, Assistant CRA Director indicated since the last meeting they have met with
Sunrise Cities once face-to-face and once on a conference call. Sunrise City proposal
was to presell all the units using section 8 vouchers, for the homeownership component,
and give the CRA back $1 M and also the board direction was to make sure to maintain
the price point at low to mid $200,000 for those units. Since that time in August their team
has added and subtracted numbers to their partnership and that was a concern. The
changes are listed as change of Miller Land Planning, Inc. to be replaced by Aaron Taylor,
Prof. Land Planner. Resignation of Eugene R. Fagan III, Technical Principal, Assante
Architects. Addition of Bryan Fenney, Financial Consultant. A Bio has been requested but
has not been received.
Ms. Shutt stated the CRA staff met with representatives of the Sunrise Cities CHDO
(SCC) team to discuss the number and types of units, the proposed financing
option (Section 8 Homeownership Voucher Program) or alternative which would provide
the same price points (without the Section 8 Vouchers), and the overall feasibility of the
project, including but not limited to, the funding commitments, amount and timing of the
payment for the CRA -owned properties, and the overall project schedule.
The Sunshine City original proposal indicated that all the units will be sold prior to breaking
ground through the Section 8 Homeownership Vouchers and a payment of $1,065,000 to
the CRA for the CRA -owned properties. Upon further discussion with representatives of
Sunrise City, it was confirmed that only Public Housing Authorities (PHA) are able to give
or administer the Section 8 program and that only 10-15% of the 61 total units (6-9 units)
will be funded by the vouchers. SCC also indicated that there is no current partnership
with a Palm Beach Count Public Housing Authority (PBC) PHA to commit to funding the
required project based Section 8 Vouchers for the Cottage District Project, but they have
had talks with a PHA serving the Deerfield/Boca area. Alternative financing options were
mentioned by SCC for the remaining units (52 units). These include financing from a
Community Development Finance Institution (CDFI), a loan, contribution from the CRA,
home pre-SAILs, and private equity investors. Commitment letters from participating
lenders or funding sources were both requested by CRA staff as well as the additional
documents listed in the August 20, 2018 meeting notes.
Staff performed due diligence on Sunrise City Community Housing Development
Organization (CHDO) representative projects in Pompano and Broward County and its
financial capacity. Staffs research of the public records indicate that the two units have
been completed, however, construction on the remaining two units have not begun and
is out of compliance with the executed 2016 development agreement.
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Staff has concerns with the team's turnover rate and departure from the original
submission as the negotiation process is limited to the terms and conditions which are
substantially similar to the original proposal. Unless otherwise directed by the CRA
Board, staff will continue to work with SCC during the negotiations process to develop
terms and conditions which are consistent with the RFP/RFQ and are in the best interest
of the CRA.
Sunrise City stated they will have the $1 M at the end of the sale of the 61 units. Staff did
some due diligence regarding their projects. The other partnership they had was with 5
nonprofits in the Sunrise area. Out of the 23 which were in the package, 19 were given
back to those nonprofits, only 6 has commence construction.
Staff has some concerns about their financial stability. The Board has the option to end
the contract negotiation. Staff could go to the next proposer or reject all proposals. Board
Member Katz stated they were going to provide the money now only after the pre -sale of
all units would they do that. Ms. Shutt indicated they are reconsidering the 100% section
8 voucher program.
Board Member Katz asked how many days are left on the initial negotiation in terms. Ms.
Shutt responded another month.
Board Member Katz's recommendation was to continue to work through that time frame.
If staff does not improve their outlook on the viability of the firm to complete what they
allege they were capable of doing, including maintaining the price point he believes at the
end of the negotiated term and staff was not satisfied, then move on to the second
applicant.
Vice Chair Romelus stated in her option she feels the applicant has showed their true
colors. She does not know what happened to this applicant. They seem to have a good
layout. Now everything was falling apart. Their entire message states they have fallen
apart. This decision was based on what was proposed and that has since changed. They
have not kept up their part of the bargain. She does not want to give them an additional
30 days. She believes they should cut ties and move on to the next applicant.
Board Member Katz stated he was in agreement with Vice Chair Romelus. He would like
to go to applicant #2
Vice Chair Romelus moved to end the contract negotiation with Sunrise City and move
forward with the second applicant, Neighborhood Renaissance. Board Member Katz
seconded the motion
Chair Grant opened to Public Comments.
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Community Redevelopment Agency Board
Boynton Beach, Florida September 11, 2018
David Katz 7 Midwood Lane recommended not moving on to the second applicant.
the end of the RFP he recalls seeing pictures of cottages. They are high densi
townhomes and Home Owners Association (HOA). Single family homes for ho
ownership. The Board should reissue the RFP. Stated this goes back 8 or 9 years.
was a slap in the face to the City to build another project. The biggest cost of any projje
was the land. Suggested the Board offered the land at no charge.
Susan Oyer, 140 S.E. 27 Way, stated this was the City of Boynton Beach shining jewel.
Suggested keep it to cottages. She was assuming they would have a lot of traffic once
Town Square was built. There are pockets in Boynton Beach and each are unique and
they will create their own little neighborhood. Please go lower density, single family
homes.
Perry Ecton, Executive Director of Sunrise City, stated the density was too high.
Having 25-30 single family homes does not require rezoning. It could be done in 18
months. He would agree not to move to the second applicant. He would place this back
on the street for single family housing with 30 units or less. The right thing to do was a
single family. We will come back we have private finance in place, if this community was
2sking for single family, small •-
:- •
e
Bernard Wright, 713 NW 2 Street, contended this cottage district has been in
place for a long time. This was a residential area of family homes. He spoke with some
#f the residents. He would not want to wake up and see a big building. The American
irearn is to have a single family home. He stated he would like the community to have
eingle family homes. Minister Wright stated he would like to see cottages as opposed to
?,kyscrapers.
Board Member Katz wished these speakers were at the previous meeting to advocate.
This was exactly what the number two firm purposed a project with winding residential
streets, almost exclusively single detached units, maybe there were 6 or 8 townhomes
tut of 31 homes. This was described as not being a cottage district.
Ifis. Shutts stated the original Neighborhood Renaissance had 39 units, 21 single families
one stories, 18 townhomes with two stories, all the amenities which were requested. The
one thing which was identified was the City capacity for a fee waiver. If the Board wants
to move forward with Neighborhood Renaissance to negotiate converting to single family
or reject all bids.
Board Member Katz stated per the motion on the table to go with the second firm, the
Board can direct the second applicant. If the desire was to reduce or eliminate the
townhomes that would drop the price of the project because the density was being
reduced. They have heard residents advocating scrapping and starting from square one.
One of which was the company which was selected and produced an undesirable
product. He has no intention of recasting another RFP to allow the selected firm to
reapply. He will not vote for a company that they must redo the process. As Vice Chair
Romelus stated, the Board has seen their product and it was not going to happen. The
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Board has a sound company which came in second place by a single point, which was
the preferred choice of staff, per the recommendation or desire was to reduce or eliminate
townhomes and make sure the facade on those properties are in the style of cottages.
He believes the number two company was fully capable.
Vice Chair Romelus requested clarification of the financial implication to the CRA for the
Boards' second choice. Ms. Shutts responded the CRA contribution would be the land
donation at a cost of $1.12M, an additional infrastructure cost of $1.2M and the
infrastructure waiver fee. The $1.25M of infrastructure cost through negotiation could be
vetted out. Neighborhood Renaissance was asking for $2.3M for the CRA portion. The
Neighborhood Renaissance have financial commitments for construction of revolving
loan funds, to build as they sell them. There was commitment from Florida Community
Loan to fund the construction costs.
Mr. Pecar responded the cash out of pocket was $1.4M which goes toward infrastructure,
improving the streetscape, lighting and the rest goes towards land value. The townhomes
could be split into single family homes. As far as design change in materials and use of
hip roofs. He believes reducing the total number of townhomes would bring down some
of the construction cost.
Ms. Shutt noted there was a 11.5% Neighborhood Renaissance developers fee versus
Sunshine City 6% contractor's profit that would need to be negotiated.
Chair Grant asked if the Attorney Duhy felt everything was in order. Attorney Duhy stated
to wrap it up.
Chair Grant indicated the motion on the floor was to end the contract negotiation with
Sunshine City and begin negotiations with Neighborhood Renaissance.
Vice Chair Romelus indicated her motion stands. She would like to reiterate as staff
moves into negotiations with Neighborhood Renaissance, she would like to provide as
much opportunity for as many people as possible to provide homeownership. She does
want the cottage appearance. She was willing to support Neighborhood Renaissance.
Motion unanimously passed.
Chair Grant directed staff to see how much the cost would be for moving Magnuson
House to the Cottage District.
Board Member Katz stated the price of the move would be a deterrent in regard to that
parcel.
K5
Meeting Minutes
Community Redevelopment Agency Board
Boynton Beach, Florida September 11, 2018
1
A. Consideration of Interlocal Agreement between the Boynton Beach CRA and
City of Boynton Beach for Funding Associated with the Sara Sims Park
Improvement Project
Board Member Katz moved to approve. Vice Chair Romelus seconded the motion subject
to legal review.
V=
no=
A. CRA Advisory Board Agenda - September 6, 2018
B. CRA Advisory Board Meeting Minutes - August 2, 2018
C. Consideration of Registration and Travel Expenses to Attend the Florida
Redevelopment Association 2018 Annual Conference on October 24-26, 2018
in Fort Myers, Florida
Attorney Duhy informed the Board the CRAAB Board decided to send one member to
attend the annual conference on October 24-26,2018.
D. Pending Assignments
1. Consideration and Discussion of the Letter Submitted by the Community
Caring Center Boynton Beach, Inc. (CCC), for their property located at
145 NE 4th Ave, Boynton Beach, Florida
E. Reports on Pending Assignments
1.None
iiIIIIIIIIII0
KE;
Meeting Minutes
Community Redevelopment i•- Board
Boynton Beach, Florida September 11, 2018
Discussion and Consideration of Amendments to the 2016 Community
Redevelopment Plan, Modifying Future Land Use Recommendations for
Properties Located in the Federal Highway Corridor District South (Totaling
Approximately 5.7 Acres), Correcting • in the Heart • Boynton District,
and Updating the Implementation Guide
There being no further business to discuss, Vice Chair Romelus moved to adjourn. Board
•- Katz seconded the motion that unanimously passed. The meeting was
adjourned at •' •
66eenester Nieves
Deputy City Clerk
W,