Minutes 03-03-20 Minutes of the City Commission Meeting
Held in the Intracoastal Park Clubhouse
2240 N. Federal Highway, Boynton Beach, Florida
On Tuesday, March 3, 2020, at 5:30 p.m.
Present:
Steven B. Grant, Mayor Lori LaVerriere, City Manager
Justin Katz, Vice Mayor James Cherof, City Attorney
Mack McCray, Commissioner Crystal Gibson, City Clerk
Christina L. Romelus, Commissioner
Ty Penserga, Commissioner
1. OPENINGS
A. Call to Order - Mayor Steven B. Grant
Mayor Grant called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m.
Invocation — Pastor Kelly Nothnagle, Calvary Chapel Boynton Beach.
Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag led by Vice Mayor Justin Katz.
Roll Call
City Clerk Gibson called the roll. There was a quorum.
Agenda Approval:
1. Additions, Deletions, Corrections
Vice Mayor Katz requested to move item 5-A to the beginning of the announcements.
Mayor Grant requested at add to Future Agenda Items to look at the Village of
Wellington's home-based business ordinance, Lake Park's accessory dwelling units
ordinance and the City employee policy regarding CBD use and whether it would violate
the city policy on a drug free workplace.
2. Adoption
Motion
Commissioner McCray moved to approve the agenda as amended. Vice Mayor Katz
seconded the motion. The motion unanimously passed.
2. OTHER
A. Informational items by Members of the City Commission
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Vice Mayor Katz, Commissioner McCray, Commissioner Romelus, and Commissioner
Penserga had nothing to disclose.
Mayor Grant noted that on February 19th, he attended the COWBRA (Coalition of West
Boynton Resident Association) and Lunch with FAU CARD (Center for Autism and
Related Disabilities). He was very excited about working them to bring awareness to the
City of Boynton Beach. On February 20th, he attended the Transportation Planning
Agency meeting to amend the long-range transportation plan, which includes State Road
7 extension. On February 21st, Mayor Grant was the MC for Poinciana Elementary
School's talent show. On February 22nd, he attended the city's Oceanfront Bark event,
complimented the Parks and Recreation Department. He also attended Poinciana
Elementary School's tree planning along with Community Greening to plant 50 trees.
Noted he hoped the CRA could work with the school to plant more trees. On February
23rd, he attended the Mother Language Day a free event, held at Sara Sims Park. The
event went extremely well. On February 24th, he attended the Board of County
Commissioners and the League of Cities meeting. Discussed issues between the City
and the County focusing on transportation regarding mobility plans, water resources,
environmental concerns and housing. The County is contemplating adding a debt millage
for water resources and housing. In addition, he attended the General Employee Pension
Board meeting. He attended the SRWTB meeting, to make sure the expansion is on
target. On February 26th, he attended the League of Cities meeting in Atlantis and had
an interview with Invest Palm Beach. On February 27th, he attended the Galaxy scrub
educational seminar, where the South Florida Water Management District and Palm
Beach County ERM removed some invasive species. The students learned about
keystone species. That evening he attended the Palm Tram Service Board. On February
28th, he attended the Business Development Board breakfast, with their site selection
committee, attended the City's first quarterly orientation. The speed-hiring event paid off.
He was pleased to throw out the first ball of the season at the East Boynton Beach little
league field. On February 29th, he attended Rock the Plaza at Ocean Palm Plaza, two
ribbing cuttings for the community policing units and US CBD.
Commissioner McCray requested an update regarding the Oceanfront Bark event.
5-A
A. Approve the request of Vice Mayor Katz to distribute $2,000 of his Community
Support Funds to the Florida Youth Rugby Union. (Heard earlier out of
sequence.)
Vice Mayor Katz noted the coach and members of the rugby team would like to say a few
words.
Sean Simon Teacher at South Tech Academy, President of Boynton Beach Youth
Rugby, wanted to give information on some of the players and their stories of rugby.
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Provided some funding principles: does not want to charge any membership dues for the
after-school program so there are no financial barriers. He made it an after school
program. He created some school partnerships. The standards are exceptional. He
wanted instill a core value system. He wanted to introduce and connect with collegiate
opportunity. Many of the players have many opportunities.
Lex McManus, a team member's mother, commented this program does not have a lot
of support from the community. Internally she could not have imagined a family such as
this. They are showing them that they can go to college. She teaches the boys manners.
She would love to have some African American males show up in the crowd.
Natalie King, a team member's mother, said this program has done so much for her child.
It is amazing what this sport has done.
Jatavia Coleman, team member, added that this has done so much for her; she has
played in a collegiate women's league. Stated Simon has been like a father to her. Rugby
has made them all family.
Samuel Taylor, a team member's father, commented that this sport has bitten his son.
His son works and goes to school and he plays hard. The character he has seen
developed in him is amazing.
Michael Joseph, team player, noted that before going to South Tech, he did not know
what rugby was. He stated the highlight in his week was going to practice. He fell in love
with the sport. Indicated his character has changed for the better. Mr. Joseph stated this
is a wish come true. One activity can change the future.
Sherry, a team member's mother, noted when they relocated to Boynton Beach, her
daughter could not play rugby anymore with the boys. She stated she loved this club and
has much respect for the club.
Sarah, team member, stated she has played rugby for 11 years and it consumes her life.
When she got in high school, she could no longer play. Simon gave her a place to go.
The different between rugby and all other sports, which get funding, is that this sport
builds character and respect.
Vice Mayor Katz explained this is why he has allocated these funds from his community
investment account; he once played for the men's team in Palm Beach County.
Commissioner Romelus asked about expansion outside of Boynton Beach.
Mr. Simon explained the program was a two-tiered program, which means they have a
travel team; they are trying to form a mini league, with the school partnership. Noted
Rugby is not a part of the Florida High School Athletic Association (FHSAA). He has
begun the process to create a Florida High School Rugby Association. He is lobbying the
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FHSAA to adopt rugby. There are some informational clubs. All the kids are teammates,
some of the events they split up. They play other travel teams. They are trying to expand,
to become more of a mainstream sport.
Commissioner Romelus requested more information regarding the program. She
explained she is affiliated with Police Athletic League of West Palm Beach. She
understands the staff are volunteers and asked where would the funding go to support.
Mr. Simon explained the funding goes to USA Rugby registration. Stated every student
must register with USA Rugby. Registration is $70 per child, but oftentimes the families
cannot afford to pay. There is also gear, tackle dummies and they just got travel team
uniforms. There are expenses with the travel team; when the games are over, the teams
come together and the hosting teams feed the other team.
Commissioner Romelus stated he is changing lives for the better. She stated she is
donating the remainder of her community support funds.
Commissioner McCray thanked everyone for encouraging each other. He did not
understand what rugby was. Keep up the good work.
Motion
Commissioner McCray moved to approve. Commissioner Romelus seconded the motion.
The motion unanimously passed.
3. ANNOUNCEMENTS, COMMUNITY AND SPECIAL EVENTS AND
PRESENTATIONS
A. Sari Vatske, Executive VP of Feeding South Florida, will announce the merger
between Feeding South Florida and the Community Caring Center of Palm
Beach County.
Sari Vatske, Executive VP of Feeding South Florida, announced that Feeding South
Florida and the Community Caring Center of Palm Beach County (Community Caring
Center) are merging in April 2020.
Doreen Robinson, said they have a shared vision for Palm Beach County. Feeding
South Florida and the Community Caring Center's merger will open doors to increased
innovative solutions for those struggling to put food on the table. They are combing
resources for citizens of Boynton Beach and Palm Beach County. Appreciate the support.
They have great plans to work together. Based in the City of Boynton Beach, the
Community Caring Center has served Palm Beach County for the past 30 years, with a
compassionate approach to their mission that aligns with Feeding South Florida's
"Families First" philosophy. Their approach is why Feeding South Florida is committed
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to preserving and expanding the Community Caring Center's meal delivery, senior
caregiving and job training programs. By coming together and removing the duplication
of the critical resources necessary to end hunger in Palm Beach County, the combined
organization is excited to continue working alongside the City of Boynton Beach and the
CRA to increase food access where it's most needed.
Commissioner McCray stated this was a super win. Asked how long until the kitchen
would be completed. Ms. Vatske replied in mid-April. In addition, she wanted to
commend Sherry Johnson, Chief Executive Officer, for her the efforts for the past 30
years. We truly believe this is an honor to carry the name, Feeding Palm Beach County
Community Caring Center.
Mayor Grant stated he is glad to see the program if flourishing.
B. Proclaim March 6th, 7th, 13th, 14th, 20th and 21st as Boynton Beach
Professional Fire Fighters of Local 1891 "Fill the Boot Days." Jeaneece
Washington from the Muscular Dystrophy Association will accept the
proclamation.
Mayor Grant proclaimed March 6th, 7th, 13th, 14th, 20th and 21st as Boynton Beach
Professional Fire Fighters of Local 1891 "Fill the Boot Days." The firefighters have raised
$468,000 for the Muscular Dystrophy Association.
Jeaneece Washington, Muscular Dystrophy Association, thanked the Commission for
allowing the firefighters to collect for the Muscular Dystrophy Association and the families
they serve. Indicated in the past 5 years, over 9 drugs have been approved by the FDA.
Stated ALS is becoming a disease, there are two drugs coming next year. Without the
support, these drugs would not be possible. Thanked the City for their support.
C. Proclaim the month of March 2020 as American Red Cross Month. Peggy Martin
from the American Red Cross will accept the proclamation.
Mayor Grant proclaimed March 2020 as American Red Cross Month.
Peggy Martin, American Red Cross, accepted the proclamation, and thanked the City of
Boynton Beach for their support. This month the American Red Cross installed 192
smoke detectors in County Green of Boynton Beach.
Commissioner Romelus thanked the American Red Cross. Forrest Park also received
smoke alarms and was educated on how to protect their homes and prevent fires.
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Commissioner McCray stated in the Heart of Boynton, fire alarms were installed.
D. Proclaim March 2-6, 2020 as National School Breakfast Week. Bonnie Rawlins,
School Food Service Manager at Galaxy E3 Elementary, will accept the
proclamation.
Mayor Grant proclaimed March 2-6, 2020 as National School Breakfast Week.
Lori Dornbusch, Site Based Operations Manager, Palm Beach County School Food
Service, accepted the proclamation. She indicated that studies show hungry children
cannot learn. This is the priority for the school system of Palm Beach County, to make
sure all children have a great start in the morning in order to learn. She stated Bonnie
Rawlins is a champion.
Commissioner McCray thanked the school system for all they do to feed the children.
E. Proclaim the week of March 2-6, 2020 to be Say Something Week in the City of
Boynton Beach, FL and encourage all our citizens to recognize Say Something's
significance. The proclamation will be accepted by Teresa Trumble-Thomas,
South Tech Academy and the Safe School Ambassadors Club Officers:
Yaimond Benel-Rivera, President, Kiera Ballard, Vice President, Eve-Sarah
Augustin, Secretary, Stelsie St. Hilaire, Treasurer and Anthony Ortiz, Historian
Vice Mayor Katz proclaimed the week of March 2-6, 2020 as Say Something Week.
Stelsie St. Hilaire, Secretary of the Safe School Ambassadors Club and Eve-Sarah
Augustin, Vice President announced 400 students attended a Say Something training
and safety meeting. The Say Something Week would include activities such as signing
against gun violence, wearing green to honor the student and the staff who died at Sandy
Hook Elementary school. Thanked Mayor Grant for recognizing this branch.
F. Early Voting for the March 17, 2020 Presidential Preference Primary and
Municipal Election will begin on Saturday, March 7, 2020 and will continue
through Sunday, March 15, 2020. The Early Voting hours are from 10:00 a.m.
until 6:00 p.m. daily at the Ezell Hester Community Center located at 1901 North
Seacrest Boulevard. A listing of Early Voting locations throughout Palm Beach
County is available at the following website:
https://www.pbcelections.oralloters/Early-Votinp.
Mayor Grant announced that early voting for the March 17, 2020 Presidential Preference
Primary and Municipal election will begin Saturday, March 7, 2020 and will continue
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through Sunday, March 15, 2020. Mayor Grant noted a listing of early voting locations
throughout the County could be found at www.pbcelections.org/voters/early-voting. Early
voting within the City is from 10:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. daily at the Ezell Hester
Community Center located at 1901 North Seacrest Blvd.
G. Due to the March 17, 2020 Presidential Preference Primary and Municipal
Election, the second Commission Meeting in March has been rescheduled to
Wednesday, March 18th at 5:30 p.m.
Mayor Grant announced the Commission Meeting scheduled for March 17th has been
rescheduled to March 18, 2020 at 5:30 p.m. due to the elections.
H. Announcement by Andrea Javier, Human Resources Manager, of Let's Move:
Commit to Change Physical Activity Challenge, a countywide initiative that
focuses on physical activity, nutrition, and healthy behaviors. The City is
encouraging Boynton Beach residents, businesses, employees, and supporters
to move for at least 30 minutes per day and to log their active minutes from
March 1st - 31st. To register, visit www.LetsMovePBC.org and join team: The
City of Boynton Beach.
Andrea Javier, Human Resources Manager, announced the start of a Let's Move:
Commit to Change Challenge. The City is encouraging the residents and employees to
move for at least 30 minutes per day. The City of Boynton Beach has participated in the
Let's Move activities in the last few years. Ms. Javier provided some activities within the
City of Boynton Beach.
I. Announce Boynton's Finance Department earned an award from the Government
Finance Officers Association (GFOA) for Excellence in Financial Reporting for
their 2018 Comprehensive Annual Financial Report.
Mayor Grant announced that Boynton Beach's Finance Department received an award
for Excellence in Financial Reporting.
Mara Frederickson, Director of Finance, announced the award was received from the
Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA). There are 412 Cities in the State of
Florida and 283 of them earned certificates for their Financial Statements last year.
Indicated there are 4,326 municipalities awarded nationally last year by GFOA. This was
a team effort. This award would not be possible without the staff.
Commissioner McCray thanked the Finance Department for a job well done.
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Eleanor Krusell, Public Communications and Marketing Director, said that Oceanfront
Park, formerly called the Boynton Casino, was purchased on March 12, 1921 for$5,750.
She noted as part of the yearlong celebration for the City of Boynton Beach Centennial,
the City is waiving the parking fee on March 12, 2020 between the hours of 9am-5pm.
Indicated parking is limited.
4. PUBLIC AUDIENCE
INDIVIDUAL SPEAKERS WILL BE LIMITED TO 3 MINUTE PRESENTATIONS (at the
discretion of the Chair, this 3-minute allowance may need to be adjusted depending
on the level of business coming before the City Commission)
Mayor Grant opened public audience.
Susan Oyer, 140th SE 27th Way, said she was curious what the plans are for the
Coronavirus and Blarney Bash. There are 2,200 cases in Italy and 79 people have died
in Italy. She was hoping that the city has a plan in place.
Mayor Grant explained that the City has a plan.
Interim Chief Matt Petty explained the City is in constant communication with Palm
Beach County and the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), this is an
ongoing situation, and they are doing everything that they can. Provided some tips to
keep safe.
Susanne Roth, Schoolhouse Children's Museum, announced Art in Bloom takes place
this weekend at the Schoolhouse Children's Museum. The second annual schoolhouse
bash, "Too Cool for School", would take place on April 23rd from 6-10 pm at Benvenuto
Restaurant. They are honoring Dr. Marcy and James Young Family Foundation and the
Boynton Beach Garden Club. Come out and have a fun and interactive evening.
Provided an update regarding the grant received from the Henry Nyish Foundation. This
grant allows for two programs: Art of the Story and Museum on the Go. The Museum is
currently serving 158 children and features a different book each month. The Art of the
Story is a literacy and an art-based program; each classroom receives a copy of the book
presented each month. Museum on the Go is a stand-alone program, which provides
science-based outreach programs to title one elementary and underserviced preschools
in the areas. They have scheduled 263 children in three different schools. Ms. Roth
invited everyone to come play with them, where learning is an adventure.
Irwin Senesce, 223 NE 12 Avenue, Boynton Strong, provided some information
regarding Boynton Strong. Indicated Boynton Strong is a 501(c)3 organization that aims
to connect individuals and families with programs, services, and resources that help them
overcome barriers to their growth, development and over all well-being. Boynton Strong
connects people with training and services. Noted some of their work included Peace N
Da Hood, a weekly basketball social that aims to reduce crime. Featured in the Palm
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Beach Post and have over 40+ weeks in a row without violence. Free Summer Camp in
the summer of 2018, provided a safe space for about 65+ young people. Featured on
WPTB News Channel 5. Turkey and Toy Drives featured on WPTV News Channel 5.
Cancer Walk hosted a fundraiser for a great cause honoring cancer survivors. Volunteers
for the Boynton Beach MLK event, the grand opening event for Sara Sims Park, Boynton
Beach Christmas Parade and much more. Mr. Senesce noted Boynton Strong would
continue to create spaces for community to engage with one another and share
resources.
Mayor Grant stated the city wanted to work with Boynton Strong. Stated February 14th,
they had their career fair, where over 60 people signed up, and the Mayor requested an
update. That is something that anyone that wants to work in Boynton Beach can get a
job.
Commissioner McCray thanked him and encouraged him to keep Boynton Strong.
Tory Orr, 407 NE 17 Avenue, noted he was over on 7th Avenue and he asked if the same
person would be building town square. He asked if they were laborers, not trained.
Where are jobs for the people in the Heart of Boynton? When is the community going to
be getting jobs in the community? He said Sophia Nelson indicated they needed 14
people immediately and nothing happened. He said she refuses to communicate with
them anymore. He stated that the City needs to do better when it comes to jobs in the
neighborhood and that Ms. Nelson does not live in Boynton Beach. Mr. Orr said no one
in the neighborhood received a job offer.
Mayor Grant indicated this information should be on the next agenda.
Commissioner McCray stated this is what is disheartening to the young people in the
area, and then when the city does not come through. It is disappointing. It was more than
a slap in the face.
Commissioner Romelus thanked Mr. Orr for expressing his concerns.
Mayor Grant closed Public Audience.
5. ADMINISTRATIVE
A. Approve the request of Vice Mayor Katz to distribute $2,000 of his Community
Support Funds to the Florida Youth Rugby Union. ( Heard earlier on the agenda)
B. Approve the request of Mayor Grant to distribute $200 of his Community Support
Funds to The Lord's Place.
Motion
(a
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Commissioner McCray moved to approve. Commissioner Romelus seconded the motion.
The motion unanimously passed.
Diana Stanley, CEO of The Lord's Place, said they are a leading provider for serving the
homeless community for more than 40 years. In Boynton Beach, there is a place called
the William H. Mann Place for Men, serving 50 men, giving them a purposeful life. She
encourages people, when they see someone who is homeless, it could be someone
brother, son, father. We must look at them as individuals. Everyone is worthy of a place
to live and have a better life. The Mann campus has been in Boynton Beach for over 30
years.
Commissioner McCray inquired about the homeless in John Prince Park. Ms. Stanley
stated they are working closely with Palm Beach County, and provide training and
placement. Indicated an emergency shelter is temporary solution. They are committed
to building homes. They launched a campaign, which has raised $15M for supported
housing. She is going to Washington with Lois Frankel to address this problem.
C. Appoint eligible members of the community to serve in vacant positions on City
advisory boards.
Mayor Grant announced the vacant positions on the City of Boynton Beach Advisory
Boards.
6. CONSENT AGENDA
Matters in this section of the Agenda are proposed and recommended by the City
Manager for "Consent Agenda" approval of the action indicated in each item, with
all of the accompanying material to become a part of the Public Record and subject
to staff comments
A. Approve issuance of a purchase order to R. George & Associates, Inc.
$77,800.00 to provide relocation services to the library from its current temporary
locations back to its permanent location in Town Square.
Commissioner McCray just wanted to explain whenever the residents see the large
amounts; it is for the entire city, not just for Town Square.
B. Proposed Resolution No. R20-019 - Authorize the City Manager to sign the
Accelerated Technology Laboratories, Inc. Master Software & Services
Agreement.
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C. Approve upgrade of VTScada licensing to the $50K Tag Bundle, which includes
an additional server runtime license and full system support at a total price of
$44,256.13.
D. Approve minutes from the City Commission meeting on February 18, 2020.
Motion
Commissioner McCray moved to approve the consent agenda as presented.
Commissioner Penserga seconded the motion, which unanimously passed.
7. Consent Bids and Purchases over $100,000-None
8. Public Hearing
A. Proposed Ordinance No. 20-002 - Second Reading - Approving the Boynton
Beach Mall Rezoning from C-3, Community Commercial, to SMU, Suburban
Mixed Use. Applicant: Bonnie Miskel, Esq., of Dunay, Miskel and Bachman, LLP.
(The applicant has requested to continue this agenda item to the March 18,
2020 Commission Meeting.)
B. Approval of the Master Plan Modification (MPMD 19-004) for the Boynton Beach
Mall allowing for the phased conversion to a mixed use or life style center with
the reconfiguration of retail space, and the addition of residential, hotel and office
uses to the existing movie theater, fitness center and church uses. (The
applicant has requested to continue this agenda item to the March 18, 2020
Commission Meeting.)
C. Proposed Ordinance No. 20-004 - Second Reading - Approve amendments to
IPUD, Infill Planned Unit Development zoning district (CDRV 20-001) - Amending
the LAND DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS: (1) Chapter 1. General
Administration, Article II. Definitions and Article III. Relationship to
Comprehensive Plan; and (2) Chapter 3. Zoning, Article I. Overview, Article III.
Zoning Districts and Overlays, Article IV. Use Regulations and Article V.
Supplemental Regulations, to establish IPUD as a zoning district corresponding
to the High Density Residential (HDR) Future Land Use classification, and to
eliminate R-4, Multi Family district from the list of residential zoning districts.
Applicant: City-initiated.
City Attorney Cherof read proposed Ordinance No. 20-004, on second reading, by title
only into the record.
Motion
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Commissioner McCray moved to approve. Vice Mayor Katz seconded the motion, which
unanimously passed.
Mayor Grant opened to public audience. Seeing none, public audience was closed.
Clerk Gibson called the Roll.
Vote 5-0
9. City Manager Report
A. Approve the below dates for FY 20/21 Budget Workshops which will be held at
the Intracoastal Park Clubhouse:
Monday, July 13, 2020 @ 5:00 P.M.
Tuesday, July 14, 2020 @ 10:00 A.M.
Wednesday, July 15, 2020 @ 2:00 P.M.
Mayor Grant announced the Budget workshops are held at the Intracoastal Park
Clubhouse. Proposed Budget Workshops are scheduled for July 13-15, 2020 at the
Intracoastal Park Clubhouse. Typically, the Commission staggers the starting times to
accommodate the public's attendance.
Lori LaVerriere, City Manager, inquired if the presented dates were acceptable to those
on the dais.
Motion
Commissioner McCray moved to approve. Commissioner Penserga seconded the
motion, which unanimously passed.
10. Unfinished Business-None
11. New Business
A. Proposed Resolution No. R20-020 - Approve and ratify appointment of Kathryn
Matos as Assistant City Manager - Administrative Services, pursuant to City
Code of Ordinances, Chapter 2, Article II, Section 2-30(b).
Mayor Grant read proposed Resolution No. R20-020 to approve and ratify the
appointment of Kathryn Matos as Assistant City Manager.
Motion
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Commissioner McCray moved to approve with discussion. Vice Mayor Katz seconded
the motion, which unanimously passed.
Lori LaVerriere introduced Kathryn Matos to the Commission and indicated there were
three rounds of interviews, in which several members of staff participated including
Interim Fire Chief Matt Petty, City Clerk Crystal Gibson, Mara Frederiksen, Director of
Financial Services, Julie Oldbury, Director of Human Resources, and Colin Groff,
Assistant City Manager.
Kathryn Matos thanked the Commission for the opportunity. She is looking forward to
hitting the ground running.
Commissioner McCray inquired how long she was at her last position. Ms. Matos replied,
7 years tomorrow.
Mayor Grant said he looks forward to having her on the team.
B. Proposed Resolution No. R20-021 - Approve the 2020 update to the City of
Boynton Beach Climate Action Plan.
Motion
Vice Mayor Katz moved to approve for discussion. Commissioner McCray seconded the
motion, which unanimously passed.
Rebecca Harvey, Sustainability Coordinator, provided a chronology of a decade of
climate action planning. 2010, First Climate Action Plan & Greenhouse Gas Inventory
2012, Joined SE FL Regional Climate Change Compact. 2015, Revised Climate Action
Plan. 2017, Created Office of Sustainability. 2018, Joined Global Covenant of Mayors for
Climate & Energy. 2020, Updated Climate Action Plan.
Ms. Harvey explained the local climate action planning vision statements. Make Boynton
Beach a regional and national leader in sustainability through innovative policies,
programs, and partnerships. Become a leader in energy efficiency and clean energy that
comes from the sun, wind, or other renewable technologies. Create a greener Boynton
Beach by enhancing the tree canopy and native plant and wildlife communities.
Transform Boynton Beach into a community where people walk, bike, take transit, or
carpool for most trips in a safe, accessible, and affordable transportation network.
Ms. Harvey stated the plan focused on the reduction of greenhouse gas. Cost saving, by
reducing costs of electricity a vehicles fuel/maintenance. Economic development by
promoting local green businesses and ecotourism. Public Health by reducing air
pollutants and promoting activity lifestyles. Ecosystem Protection by enhancing
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greenspace and reducing plastic pollution. Climate resilience by reducing urban heat and
promoting resilient energy systems.
The Climate Action plan has made effort to align with the City of Boynton Beach pillars.
Indicated they have made an effort to align with the City strategic planning goals. The
low-income communities are historically underserved and underrepresented. However,
these communities are at risk to withstand the worst of climate impacts. The City of
Boynton Beach prides itself on diversity and inclusiveness. The CAP will continue to elicit
diverse stakeholder's participation, to ensure that benefits of climate action shared
equitably among all community members.
Ms. Harvey indicated there is active community engagement is critical; and this is done
in several ways, such as the sustainability advisory teams, climate action workshop, and
ongoing public engagement.
Ms. Harvey explained the greenhouse gas to reduce the emissions to 50%. To have a
Net zero GHG emission by 2050. These are ambitious projects, both they are achievable.
Ms. Harvey showed a graph, which indicated the Greenhouse gas emission targets,
which has the actual measured emissions from 2015 and 2015. The emissions reduction
target to show the 50% reduction from 2015 to 2035; the FPL grid for improvement with
and without the improvement.
The Implementation and monitoring are in direct relation to GHCI metrics. Report
progress annually to the commission. Integrate the CAP actions into the budget process.
Seek grants and other funding/financing sources. Prioritize high impact actions and
develop pathway to meet GHG reduction targets. Develop interactive online platform to
track implementation. Of the plan, continue to monitor and implement. Report progress
annually, integrate CAP actions into the budget process. Seek grants and other funding
financing sources. Prioritize high impact action and develop pathway to meeting GHG
reduction targets, develop interactive online platform to track implementation. Thanked
the Sustainability team, Sustainabase and staff.
Commissioner McCray inquired about who represents Sustainabase. Ms. Harvey
introduced Matt Zirkelbach, Founder and Holly Lichtenfeld.
Commissioner Penserga asked how the number derived.
Ms. Harvey replied it is not a physical measure for carbon dioxide. No physical sensor
placed around the city. An inventory focuses on the activity and resource use of
boundary. There are two levels such as the level of government operation, and the level
of communities. Obtaining the document of resource use, such as purchased energy,
such as electric use. Conversation factors, the grid is getting cleaner.
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Commissioner Penserga indicated on page 12 in the provided document, shows the vast
majority from the government side comes from buildings. Inefficiency in building which
was 68%. Does the City know which building are the drivers of the 68% inefficiency?
Ms. Harvey stated the aim was to make it precise. The biggest electric users in the city
was Wastewater Treatment Plant, the Water Treatment plants and City Hall. Then the
Community Centers and then the larger building.
Commissioner Penserga stated this was a large number. The overall greenhouse gas
emission declined 14%; this contributed to improvement to FPL, but also a reduction in
electricity consumption. He was confused about the decrease.
Ms. Harvey replied since the initiative began, the City has upgraded some of the buildings
are now equipped with automatic timer and upgraded air conditioning units. She also
stated there were buildings torn down. She explained when the other buildings come
online they will be efficient buildings.
Commissioner Penserga asked how this change the projection of the progress. Ms.
Harvey stated there would be buildings that are more efficient and the City has the district
energy plant.
Commissioner Penserga stated this would be public facing. Stated there was some data
missing. Ms. Harvey explained there was no consultants during those missing years.
Boynton Beach is ahead of the curve. The City has an annual inventory.
Commissioner Penserga noticed the community priority did not match with the GHG
reduction potential.
Ms. Harvey stated people care about many things.
Commissioner McCray explained this was a project that was previously placed on the
shelf.
Ms. LaVerriere explained they have a dedicated, passionate employee leading this
project.
Mayor Grant commented understands the water utility is the biggest user of the electricity,
and he understands many residents use the solar now program. The City received the
solar canopies. He would like to see if the City could see if the public would like to make
that investment to the city regarding using the water utility as the conduit to build solar
panels, because there are plenty of lift stations, plenty of water treatment plants and there
are plenty of spaces available. He would like to see if the Commission can have a
voluntary program for utility to add solar panels. Wanted to get a consensus to get that
information. Asked how much is the fee for electric and for the water utility.
15
Meeting Minutes
City Commission
Boynton Beach, Florida March 3, 2020
Cohn Groff, Assistant City Manager, responded electric is one of the largest consumable
for the plants and the pump stations. Indicated there are some utility providers where
residents voluntarily pay to create green energy sources. This is a new program. Mr.
Groff stated the Commission has approved the Wastewater project, which would reduce
25% of the energy use.
Ms. LaVerriere asked if the modeling show the actual cost of the power. Mr. Groff replied
yes.
Mr. Groff indicate there are project are trying to do, they are trying to do the most efficient
way. Staff would come back with some ideas.
Commissioner Penserga requesting to discuss converting single occupancy bathrooms
to gender-neutral bathrooms.
12. Legal-None
13. Future Agenda Items
A. Discuss Local Septic Tank Inspection Program - March 18, 2020.
B. Discuss purchase and sale agreement for Nichols property - March 18, 2020.
C. The Central Palm Beach Chamber of Commerce will make a brief presentation
to the Commission regarding their member benefits. The City has become a
member of this Chamber. - March 18, 2020
D. Quarterly Census Update - March 18, 2020.
E. Senator Lori Berman and House Representative Joe Casello will provide a
legislative update to the Commission - April 7, 2020.
F. Presentation of 2019 Comprehensive Annual Financial Report - April 21, 2020.
14. Adjournment
Motion
There being no further business to discuss, Vice Mayor Katz made a motion to adjourn.
Commissioner McCray seconded the motion. The meeting adjourned at 7:22 p.m.
(Continued on next page.)
Meeting Minutes
City Commission
Boynton Beach, Florida March 3, 2020
CITY OF BOYNTON BEACH
Mayor- Steven B. Grant
Ase
Vice M. • - Justin K.
'ommission- — Mac McCr.
Commissioner / hristina Romelus
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Commi;,.i 7 'en •a
ATTEST:
"Pik- t ,
C stat Gibson, MMC
City Clerk
�. eoYNl•~
•ueenester Nieves, CMC
Deputy City Clerk
17
BOYNTON STRONG
Boynton Strong Community Outreach &Training is a community-based 501-C3 organization
that aims to connect individuals and families with programs, services, and resources that help
them overcome barriers to their growth, development, and over all well-being.
Our initiatives are designed to strengthen the fabric of the community, empower the youth,
and contribute to crime reduction. Our work:
- Peace N' Da Hood a weekly basketball social that aims to reduce crime. Featured in the Palm
Beach post and having Over 40+ weeks in a row without violence
-Free Summer Camp in summer 2018 provided a safe space for about 65+youth. Featured on
WPTV news channel 5
-Turkey and Toy Drives featured on WPTV News channel 5 in 2018 for partnering up with other
organizations to feed families. Have also partnered with Lorri LaVerriere & City of Boynton
Beach for our annual Toy Drive for the youth.
-Cancer Walk hosted a fundraiser for a great cause honoring cancer survivors
-Volunteers for the Boynton Beach MLK event, the grand opening event for Sara Sims Park,
Boynton Beach Christmas Parade, and more.
WHAT'S NEXT?
-Boynton Strong will continue to create spaces for community to engage with one another and
share resources. Please contact us for more info.
-Trainings Boynton Strong Community Outreach &Training will not only focus on Social
initiatives but also educational workshops to empower the youth as well as individuals and
families in the areas of: life skills, civic engagement, finances, leadership skills, community
awareness & accountability, career paths, technology, etc. Through community help and
support we can accomplish our goals. Open to also creating authentic & strategic partnerships
that expand our capacity to impact community.
HOW CAN WE WORK TOGETHER? Contact info
-Monetary donations Boyntonstrongz gmail.com
-in-Kind donations C:561.388.4055