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Minutes 03-10-20 Minutes of the Community Redevelopment Agency Board Meeting Held on Tuesday, March 10, 2020, at 5:30 P.M. At the Intracoastal Park Clubhouse 2240 N. Federal Highway, Boynton Beach, Florida Present: Steven B. Grant, Chair Mike Simon, Executive Director Justin Katz, Vice Chair Thuy Shutt, Assistant Director Christina Romelus, Board Member Kathryn Rossmell, Board Counsel Mack McCray, Board Member Ty Penserga, Board Member 1. Call to order Chair Grant called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m. 2. Invocation The invocation was given by Reverend Woodrow Hay, St. John Missionary Baptist Church, followed by the members reciting the pledge to the Flag. 3. Roll Call A quorum was present. 4. Agenda Approval A. Additions, Deletions, Corrections to the Agenda Board Member McCray requested to speak under Information and Announcements as it is his last meeting as a Board Member for the CRA. Chair Grant requested to add a discussion of Boynton Beach Police Officers could work overtime to supplement the Neighborhood Police Officer program because one officer was off duty as Old Business Item G. B. Adoption of Agenda Motion w Board Member McCray moved to approve. Board Member Penserga seconded the motion. The motion unanimously passed. Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Boynton Beach, Florida March 10, 2020 5. Legal A. Corrective Amendments to Exhibit A of the 500 Ocean Direct Incentive Funding Agreement Kathryn Rossmell, Board Counsel, made a correction to clarify an inconsistency between the main part of a contract and an attachment that was approved by staff and the other parties. Motion Board Member McCray moved to approve. Vice Chair Katz seconded the motion. The motion unanimously passed. Chair Grant requested Legal research what effect the merger of the Community Caring Center and Feeding South Florida with regard to the contract the CRA signed with the Community Caring Center . 6. Informational Items and Disclosures by Board Members and CRA Staff: A. Disclosure of Conflicts, Contacts, and Relationships for Items Presented to the CRA Board on Agenda Vice Chair Katz and Board Members Romelus and Penserga had no disclosures. Chair Grant disclosed he had breakfast at the Coffee and Ale exchange and they are on the agenda. Board Member McCray gave accolades to his colleagues and CRA staff. He praised Mr. Simon and announced they often did not agree, but they walked away being friends. He thanked Ms. Shutt for coming on board. He was present when she was hired and watched her grow. He challenged Mr. Simon and Ms. Shutt to make use of the funds they set aside to educate themselves even further. When opportunity arises, from what he hears about them, he will read their names and be nationally known. He encouraged them to strive towards that end. He addressed staff and commented he was often like a parent, constantly challenging them. He watched staff grow and receive earned promotions. He challenged the marketing staff always urging them to make the Board proud and when he received the latest marketing materials, he announced he was proud. He challenged CRA staff to take advantage of educational opportunities, so when opportunity knocked, they could take advantage. He made a lot of friends, and probably some enemies, but had a fun-filled six years. He urged the CRA to continue to grow and say what they have to say. Staff always made him proud and he urged them to be the best they could. He announced when he leaves the Board, he will follow wherever his faith leads him. He announced he loves the entire staff. 2 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Boynton Beach, Florida March 10, 2020 Mr. Simon presented Board Member McCray a plaque in appreciation of all his years of service. Mr. Simon explained Board Member McCray's words were appreciated and sincere and they will miss him. 7. Announcements and Awards A. Rock the Plaza on February 29, 2020, at Ocean Palm Plaza Recap Mercedes Coppin, Business Promotions and Event Manager, explained the event spotlighted the Ocean Palm Plaza restaurants and service businesses and about 250 people attended throughout event. There were two ceremonial ribbon cuttings: the first was for the new crime prevention and Neighborhood Officer Program Office, and the second was to celebrate the one-year anniversary of Your CBD Store. A feedback survey revealed 46% never visited the plaza before and staff conducted an impact survey with the plaza businesses, ad based on the initial feedback conducted from staff during the event, the majority of businesses were all grateful for the exposure they received and were looking forward to having it come back next year. The members viewed photos of the event. B. The 6th Annual Blarney Bash on March 14, 2020 located at Dewey Park and E. Ocean Avenue from 4:00 PM to 9:00 P.M. Ms. Coppin announced the above free event on East Ocean Avenue and NE 4th Street around Dewey Park and the surrounding area. There will be free parking at nearby lots as contained on CatchBoynton.com. Live music from The Flyers, The Killbillies and the Reeling Roads and a performance from the Erin Moore Academy of Irish Dance along with roaming bagpipers. The food court will offer a variety of Irish and American options, including shepherd's pie and Irish sausages. Local CRA businesses will be featured in the food court, including Guaca Go and Troy's BBQ. Craft beer from local breweries will be available as would fun activities for adults and children. Thirteen CRA district businesses have signed up and staff is working on a lucky gold hunt game encouraging attendees to visit local businesses. Ms. Coppin noted more businesses signed up this year. There will be plenty of hand sanitizers available and they have a trailer with sinks for handwashing and additional hand sanitizer. Board Member McCray noted the publications cause Boynton to earn awards and she has a gift. Ms. Smith Coffey explained the marketing was split. She reviewed the Delray and Boca newspapers and its circulation counts as well as the Coastal Star, which reaches the eastern community. A picture of the billboard on 1-95 and Gateway was viewed. Staff also had a strong social media campaign for Blarney Bash. The cost for the campaign in the meeting materials was $500, and staff added another$100 for an ad going out tomorrow on Facebook. Images of the CRA's Instagram and Twitter posts were viewed. Mr. Simon announced at 10 a.m., on Friday, March 13th, Common Ground Coffee, a new CRA business will have a ribbon cutting and opening. The Board was invited. 3 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Boynton Beach, Florida March 10, 2020 C. Rock the Plaza on March 28, 2020 at Sunshine Square from 4:00 PM to 8:00 P.M. Ms. Coppin announced the above event that will be held on the southwest corner of Federal Highway and Woolbright Road. There will be live music by "Completely Unchained", a Van Halen Tribute Band. Staff encouraged businesses in the plaza to take advantage of a 10 by 10 tent to receive additional exposure, and there will be a business promotional game, that will involve all participating businesses, encouraging attendees and patrons to engage with the businesses. Tracey Smith Coffey, Boynton Beach CRA Marketing and Business Development, reviewed the ads, which were in the Delray and Boca newspapers, reaching 15K people that are directly online readers and 12K via newspapers were distributed. The next full- page ad was the Neighborhood News reaching the western community and their digital following on Facebook and on their website. 8. Information Only 9. Public Comments Susan Oyer, 140 SE 27th Way, commented Board Member McCray made her laugh often over the years and she thanked him for his service. She noted construction Ocean Breeze East was moving along quickly and it looked like it was almost finished. She looked forward to the Blarney Bash, she will be working at the Sister Cities booth. She hoped the CRA was not giving away free beads as Sister Cities was raising funds by trying to sell beads. Woodrow Hay, 427 NW 5th Avenue, spoke on behalf of the community and different organizations in District II. He conveyed they had nothing but compliments for Board Member McCray, and he thanked him for his years of service. They will miss him and he has done an outstanding job. He was able to speak with him about issues and questions. He noted people ask why the District II seat keeps transferring from Hay to McCray and back and it was the people's choice. He was thankful they made the call for Board Member McCray this time and he hoped it would be his turn. Board Member McCray thanked him for his comments. He commented often service on the Board feels like a thankless job, but people appreciate what they are doing. No one else coming forward, Public Comment was closed. 10. Consent Agenda A. Financial Report Period Ending February 29, 2020 B. Approval of CRA Board Meeting Minutes - February 11, 2020 4 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Boynton Beach, Florida March 10, 2020 C. Approval of Commercial Property Improvement Grant Program in the Amount of$50,000 for The Coffee and Ale Exchange, LLC d/b/a Bond Street Ale and Coffee located in Casa Costa at 400 N. Federal Highway, Unit 12 D. Approval of Commercial Rent Reimbursement Grant Program in the amount of$21,000 for The Coffee and Ale Exchange, LLC d/b/a Bond Street Ale and Coffee located in Casa Costa at 400 N. Federal Highway, Unit 12 E. Approval of Commercial Rent Reimbursement Grant Program in the amount of$14,124 for Magic Scissors Pet Grooming, Inc. d/b/a Jackie's Grooming Spa & Hotel located in Ocean Plaza at 640 E. Ocean Avenue, Unit 18-19 Motion Vice Chair Katz moved to approve the Consent Agenda. Board Member McCray seconded the motion. The motion unanimously passed. 11. Pulled Consent Agenda Items None. 12. CRA Projects in Progress A. CRA Marketing and Business Development Project Update Ms. Smith-Coffey provided an update, which included the Coastal Angler magazine, which reaches 40K people in Palm Beach, Broward, Dade and Monroe Counties. She showed an ad that was published in Marina Life magazine, a popular magazine in the marine industry, which connects boaters with marinas. The ad featured parasailing, which was something for the travelling boater to do. It was a quarter page ad, and the magazine is issued quarterly. Staff conducted a social media campaign on the projects. In February, the post reached 12,854 people and it received 2,263 engagements, defined as a comment, share or a like. Another project post was viewed as well as two Twitters and an Instagram. B. CRA Economic & Business Development Grant Program Update Bonnie Nicklien, CRA Grant Manager, explained there are two pending businesses that were just approved, leaving a fund balance of$452,187. There are many businesses in the pipeline, which will be presented in the near future. She also provided a list of businesses that received Business Tax Receipts in February 2020. Mr. Simon noted world renown French chef Andrea Jordon had a soft opening for her restaurant located at 480 E. Ocean Avenue. The building is now occupied and it was 5 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Boynton Beach, Florida March 10, 2020 packed. Board Member Romelus thought the City was fortunate to have her. Last week, she had lunch with the owner of the Regional, a new restaurant in West Palm, who gave Chef Jordan accolades. Chair Grant suggested making a reservation ahead of time, because the restaurant does not have a bar. He commented the food was delicious. He asked about vegan and vegetarian options and was told they were no problem. They can accommodate any dietary needs. C. Ocean Breeze East Apartment Project Update Mr. Simon had a video presentation and explained the project went from the foundation to vertical construction within the last three and a half weeks. They are continually discussing with developers interested in project in the CRA, Cultural District and the Heart of Boynton. Construction sends a great message to the community. Centennial was a great contractor/developer and very responsive to issues that arise. Board Member Romelus asked if there was a process for prospective tenants interested in moving into Ocean Breeze to follow. Mr. Simon explained staff is taking their names at the CRA office. Centennial has not provided their leasing number, but they keep asking and when they have the information, it will be posted on website and on social media. The estimated completion date is December 2020/January 2121. Board Member Romelus wanted to ask Centennial about their process at their other complexes, as she has received a lot of questions. She wanted to know the process and ensure local residents get their fair share of the apartments. Board Member McCray praised Theresa Utterback. A Boynton resident who owns property north of the construction site, had cement trucks parking on their property without her permission. Ms. Utterback addressed the issue. The second concern is the bus stops around the property and this morning kids were playing on the fence. He thought someone should contact the Palm Beach County School District to move the bus stop. 13. Public Hearing 14. Old Business A. Consideration of Fiscal Year 2018-2019 Budget Amendment for Unreserved Fund Balance and Self-Funded Insurance Reserve Tabled (2/11/20) Vicki Hill, Finance Director, explained the item was tabled last month Motion Board Member McCray moved to remove from the table. Board Member Romelus seconded the motion. The motion unanimously passed. 6 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Boynton Beach, Florida March 10, 2020 Ms. Hill explained the audit from 18/19 showed there was $411 K available to be reallocated. There were also other surplus funds they had to reallocate along with monies from the project fund that came in under budget. The total was $1.4 million. There was only one item staff would like to recommend, which was $500K for Pete's Pond at the Marina. Mr. Simon explained the City was working on a project in the Pete's Pond/Marina District area to increase parking on E. Boynton Beach Boulevard from Federal Highway to the waterfront, which are needed. Ten parking spaces will become 22. The landscaped beds are raised and the City is constantly being approached by attorneys for damage to vehicles because the elevation of the planter boxes and concrete are located next to the parallel parking spaces. There is a lot of overgrowth, which will be addressed and there will be new lighting and emergency button stations like Sara Sims. This project should be $1.1 to 1.1 million. Mr. Simon explained the City asked the CRA to partner on the project and it is within the CRA's statutory purview to do so. The impact to the business there would be positive. Bond and Smolders' second location is at Casa Costa, which faces Pete's Pond. The parking spaces are businesses spaces, not resident spaces. Board Member Penserga supported the request, but asked about security cameras. The CRA has cameras on the marina slips and harbor master building, Casa Loma Boulevard and on the CRA owned areas. They do not have cameras on the Boynton Beach Boulevard Extension or around Pete's Pond. Mr. Simon could find out if security cameras will be part of the City's project, but he was aware there will be emergency stations that have small cameras facing down on the person using them. Board Member Romelus asked if the planned improvements would resolve many of the issues they have had in the past in that area and learned they would. This project, from the entrance on the north side of Pete's Pond by the former entrance to Mangrove Park around to Casa Costa to Boynton Beach Boulevard and to the Promenade that leads to the Overlook to the Intracoastal, will be redone with parking, landscaping and lighting, and additional landscaping, electrical, and lighting improvements will take place down the Promenade Walkway towards the Intracoastal. Board Member McCray supported the project. The residents of Casa Costa wanted the improvements. Chair Grant would like to rename Pete's Pond, and understood it was named after a former employee. He wanted to give it a more Boynton Beach name, especially since the CRA was spending $500K on the area. He noted this was just the area east of Federal Highway, from Casa Costa, back. There was no place for on-street parking or improvements to the south side of the Casa Costa building. The area was from the north/south road between the Ocean One project site and the First Financial Plaza east. Chair Grant commented they lost Mangrove Park and the City lost the boardwalk. In speaking with the Diocese, they do not really want the boardwalk there. He thought they may be able to work out an agreement, as part of the improvements, to remove that and use the boardwalk. The frame is good, but new supports were needed. Mr. Simon explained, Colin Groff, Assistant City Manager, was working with the Diocese and City staff on the project. Because Mangrove Park and the bathrooms are closed, they will try to create access to the mangrove area from the Promenade. There is Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Boynton Beach, Florida March 10, 2020 discussion to move the boardwalk and tied in to the outlook that exists on the City side, off the Dioceses, but the permitting and the plan to do the work in the Mangrove is a longer process because of the permitting involving several agencies. The project they are working was set to start in the next 90 to 180 days. Reassembling the Board is something the City is contemplating and Mr. Simon will mention it to them and they may be able to provide an update at a City Commission meeting along with naming the property. The CRA is responsible for funding improvements on East Boynton Beach Boulevard from Federal Highway to the Promenade and it was part of the first bond the CRA had. It was a $10M bond and the road was constructed to accommodate Marina Village and Casa Costa. The CRA invested a lot in the Marina, and this was one way to keep the Marina progressing and better for the public. Board Member Romelus asked about renaming Pete's Pond and if it would be renaming rights. Chair Grant explained it is the City's pond, and it is a request; not a demand. Susan Oyer, 140 SE 27th Way, explained when the pond was originally made, it was supposed to be named after her grandmother, Lillian Frederico Oyer, but her father did not want a retention pond named after the family. She requested as a point of information, the Board keep the name in mind. She offered to give further information out her grandmother if anyone wanted to know. Woodrow Hay, 427 NE 5th Avenue, noted there would approving facade grants to old businesses that need to be spruced up. He also noted travelling on Federal Highway from north and south entrances are somewhat depressing. It is an opportunity to do something to enhance the look on US 1 in both directions, especially from the Boca/Delray area. He asked what could be done with the available funds to improve the aesthetics. He also commented there were several activities in Sara Sims Park at the amphitheater, such as the MLK celebration. He conveyed he received several complaints attendees could not see people on the stage, especially those sitting in the chairs. He recalled the Bangladesh Celebration brought their own stage. He thought if someone fell off, there could be a liability. He did not like people coming in with their own stage. He requested considering a four-foot stage on the amphitheater. It would improve the relationship with the residents. It was a tenuous issue originally but now there are funds available, and he thought it would be a good gesture to consider a stage. Yvonne Skovron, 350 N. Federal Highway, Apartment 1405, thanked the Board for consideration of the funds for Pete Pond. She has been working on it for five years, because it is a safety issue as well as a beautification issue. Between Casa Costa and Marina Village, there are over 1000 residents. They are a focal point when coming off 95, and the area looks great from the air, but it is not kept well. She hoped the City would make up the difference. The cost is over$1 M. She requested the complete project be undertaken. It will bring in residents and help businesses. She requested finishing that part and make it look amazing. 8 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Boynton Beach, Florida March 10, 2020 There was agreement to make a tentative allocation for the recommendation. The CRA is purchasing property at 209 and 217 Seacrest and they will need funds to close, although Ms. Hill pointed out they could budget the funds in the next budget year. Chair Grant wanted to allocate funds to purchase 209 N. Seacrest although the second property would not be purchased for another two years. Ms. Hill explained the Board needs approximately $1.3M to close. The CRA already has nearly $400K in the property acquisition line item. There was also $368K for future Redevelopment projects. Board Member McCray asked how much it would cost for a concrete stage for the amphitheater. Mr. Simon recalled between $25K and $35K to raise the stage. Board Member Romelus recalled at the last budget discussion, there were ranks of what was wanted and she requested that information return to the Board. Mr. Simon explained the funds in the project fund line item could be moved without a budget amendment. Board Member McCray wanted to allocate just the $500K and let the new Board be responsible for other allocations. Vice Chair Mr. Katz supported the Pete's Pond request due to safety and parking. He supported using some of the funds to assist with closing costs for the property at 209 Seacrest Boulevard. If they allocate for some down payment costs, there will be more money next year for growth that the new members could allocate. Motion Vice Chair Katz moved to approve moving $300K to property acquisitions and the remainder to the funding for Future Redevelopment Projects. Board Member McCray seconded the motion. Board Member Romelus wanted to ensure staff would bring back information about the amphitheater stage as a future agenda item. Chair Grant wanted to add Federal Highway enhancements to see if they can get shade trees or enhanced landscaping in the City's parks or other areas in the CRA, with increased tree canopies. Ms. Hill explained the Board needed to approve Resolution 20-01 regarding self- insurance funds as they save $200K with the self-insurance, which will be moved to the project fund. Chair Grant noted the motion was to allocate $500K to the Boynton Beach Boulevard improvements east of Federal Highway, the additional $300K to Property Acquisition and the remainder to funding Future Development Projects and explained that was the motion that was seconded. Vice Chair Katz asked about the Bell's property. Mr. Simon explained the Bells expressed they did not want to do anything yet. Staff will keep in touch with the Bells on a regular basis and apprise the Board. Chair Grant asked for a motion for R20-01 as mentioned. 9 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Boynton Beach, Florida March 10, 2020 Motion Board Member Romelus so moved. Board Member McCray seconded the motion that unanimously passed. Board Member Romelus wanted the amphitheater stage as a future agenda item. Chair the comments about sprucing up Federal Highway, get shade trees or enhanced landscaping with greater tree canopy. B. Consideration and Discussion of Terms for a RFP/RFQ and Letters of Interest for the Operation and Management of the Historic Woman's Club of Boynton Beach Thuy Shutt, Assistant Director, explained the CRA purchased the building in the fall of 2017, and major renovations to secure and waterproof the building were made. The work was completed and the building can now be rented. Staff had to determine whether to secure an entity to operate the building. There was interest from the City to use it and operate it for a civic use on a regular basis as well as from other interested parties such as the Surfer Museum. Statutory changes do not allow CRA funding for non-profit and staff brought two options: issue an RFP to operate and maintain the building, or if the Board wants the City to use the building, they should advise how they would operate the building and help with funding. The City was not present, but will be prepared to make a presentation next month. Chair Grant wanted to table the item and wait for the City to make a presentation because the City and CRA work together closely and can determine the best way to move forward. As to using the building as a senior center, Legal will have to review the matter. Ms. Shutt explained the statutory limitation is related to the funding of non-profit organizations for their overhead or administrative costs. Additionally, they need to learn if a CRA building can be used as a social function building or not, and if not does the CRA have to sell it to the City. Ms. Shutt explained who ever would own and operate the building is dependent on their ability to have parking for events. The City and CRA could have an agreement to use the Senior Center parking after hours. Vice Chair Katz favored waiting to hear the City's presentation and interpretation. Board Member McCray agreed. Attorney Rossmell offered to prepare a memorandum to accompany the City's presentation, which the Board accepted. If the Surfing Museum can operate for a fee, it was fine, but it would still remain, under the current zoning rules a civic use, which triggers other items such as parking. Community Redevelopment Agencies are not typically permitted to allow non-profits to use their facilities at a reduced rate or free of charge, because the CRA is, in essence, funding them. Chair Grant thought there were for profit businesses that could use the building for a function and be somewhat limited to the public. The Board has to decide how accessible the building could be to the public. 10 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Boynton Beach, FloridaMarch 10, 2020 Motion Chair Grant requested a motion to table and wait for the memorandum from Legal and to give the City a deadline of the next meeting to have a proposal, before they move ahead with an RFP. Board Member McCray moved to table to the next meeting. Board Member Penserga seconded the motion. The motion that unanimously passed. C. Discussion of the CRA Owned Property located at 115 N. Federal Highway Ms. Shutt explained the Board was considering an Interlocal Agreement (ILA)with the Solid Waste Authority for grant funding to demolish the building at 115 N Federal Highway. The Board had tabled the item because the grant deadline was June and the demolition date in the grant application was August because the City was using the building until June as a temporary Library. The Board chose the ILA, but directed staff to get estimates to learn about the cost to renovate the building for the new use or prepare for redevelopment. It is March and the United Congregation Church has already vacated the building. Mr. Simon noted six or seven developers, within the last 9 to 12- months, were interested in the site. The CRA plan dictates it would be a mixed-use project. The developer would have to include extra parking and different units of different sizes, counts and whether they be retail. The project would be similar to 500 Ocean. The maximum height would be 150 feet. The site, zoning and land use allows for the biggest and best project. Mr. Simon would like to see a mixed-use project with retail and would like to try to expand the footprint by working with nearby property owners. The intent is not just to buy the property, demolish it and have more parking, it has always been for future redevelopment of the site. Vice Chair Katz favored demolition, so they can quickly discuss and/or issuing an RFP/RFQ. It is prime real estate, and it was anticipated the property across the street will be sold and redeveloped. He thought the CRA should make the property presentable, and advertise it as ready to go and using grants if successfully obtained to move it forward. (Board Member McCray left at 6:53 p.m.) Chair Grant was concerned about other properties on the block. They need to look at the other four active businesses there and they would have to see if the other owners were willing to sell and at what price. The reason why the library could open was it was temporary. (Board Member McCray returned at 6:55 p.m.) He noted there is not enough office space in the downtown. First Financial Plaza has condos but no Class A office space. He thought the CRA should look for that as opposed to residential units. 11 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Boynton Beach, Florida March 10, 2020 Chair Grant wanted to move forward with demolition and direct staff to talk to adjacent property owners, and potentially purchasing them so they can develop a project in the future. He was aware Boca is getting a Brightline station. He did not think Boynton Beach would, but they may get a Coastal Tri-Rail station. Having a parking garage would be valuable. He did not want to rush to sell the property because the CRA has one shot to get a train station downtown in the Transit Oriented District (TOD). Ms. Shutt noted they could include those provisions in the RFP. Vice Chair Katz agreed with the Chair. He supported acquisition of the church property, so the CRA could guide the development and would have. Several million dollars of authority to make demands of a developer. Board Member Romelus agreed. She wanted to ensure one request would be for the developer do a mixed-use or mixed-income property due to the huge deficit of affordable units. D. Consideration and Discussion of the Property Inspection for the Purchase and Sale Agreement associated with 209 N. Seacrest Boulevard Ms. Shutt explained they have contract for the above property and staff was to bring back the cost to retrofit the building for an office use. The cost was $300 a square foot due to the building having two-stories, with the second floor having a residential unit. It would cost over$2 million to convert the building to code. The purchase and development agreement included a due diligence clause. The only recourse was to approach the owner to renegotiate the contract or to walk away. Attorney Rossmell noted the owner is under no obligation to accept any renegotiations. If he did not want to renegotiate, the Board could receive its deposit back. Chair Grant noted the item was more of an informational item to see what they could do with the building while the downtown was being built. The CRA looked at the entire building, which serves as three different offices for the Police Department, E2L and the Utility's cashier. The utility area can be reasonably repaired. He asked if the repair cost could be separated out areas. Ms. Shutt was aware there are plumbing issues on the ground floor. Chair Grant wanted to continue with the purchase and find out the cost to fix one story portion of the building to be an incubator or co-working space for the community. Board Member McCray favored the incubator space. The first and second floor with the residential aspects was not a good use of CRA funds. Staff can ask if the Police Department and E2L will need to use the space. If so, they will need to sign a lease. No motion was needed. The CRA will purchase the building in October. E. Consideration of Approval of Boynton Village, LLC a/k/a The Preserve's Performance Audit for Year Ending December 31, 2019 for Compliance with the Direct Incentive Funding Agreement Ms. Hill explained this was the Preserves fifth year requesting the Direct Incentive Funding Agreement (DIFA) funds and Board approval is needed. The Preserve 12 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Boynton Beach, Florida March 10, 2020 complied with all the requirements for the 2019 tax year. The amount was $81,861, but $74,064 stays with the CRA. The complex has 100 affordable rental units and five owner-occupied units. Further details were contained in the meeting backup. Motion Board Member McCray moved to approve. Board Member Penserga seconded the motion. The motion unanimously passed. F. Consideration of the First Amendment to Fund the Increasing the Quality of Life Program of Habitat for Humanity International (d/b/a Habitat for Humanity of South Palm Beach County Ms. Shutt presented the item. The board granted Habitat for Humanity the Increasing the Quality of Life program $75K for three new and three rehabilitated homes and homeowners classes. Habitat was requesting a six-month extension, have to complete new units by the end of March and have their reporting by April 15. There was a shortage of construction workers and some families set to move in to the homes backed out. New families were found but water service was also unavailable. Staff has no objection to the extension as Habitat was diligently doing their work and marketing the program. Staff recommended approval of the draft first amendment. Motion Board Member McCray moved to approve the extension. Board Member Penserga seconded the motion. Russell Sykes, Construction Administrator, Habitat for Humanity, South Palm Beach County,181 SE 5th Avenue, Delray Beach was present. Chair Grant asked if Habitat had openings for the 500 hours to obtain one of these homes and learned they have sweat equity program. Program participants must work for their own and fellow future homeowners. New homes are being built constantly and there are opportunities for volunteers. He encouraged the Board to visit the NW 11 th homes. There were five homes in varying stages of construction and they are always looking for land in Boynton Beach. Vote The motion unanimously passed. G. Neighborhood Officer Program Mr. Simon noted at the last meeting, a board member encouraged other officers to become involved in the Neighborhood Officer Program (NOP.) Two Officers 13 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Boynton Beach, Florida March 10, 2020 experienced various injuries which curtailed their duties and it was discussed at the last meeting whether or not the CRA wants additional funding for other officers to work overtime to take some of the workload of the current NOP program. Chair Grant noted the CRA was supposed to go from a one Sergeant and two officers to a three officers and one Community Service Officer(CSO) model and the program did not receive another officer or CSO. As a result, not all the funds are spent. Chair Grant wanted to use those funds for other officers to be paid overtime by working in the program. Board Member McCray wanted to hear from the Chief as he understood there were not enough officers. Michael Gregory, Police Chief, confirmed of two officers in the NOP, one was out on leave and one was restricted to light duty. The department does not have full time frame of when they can return to full duty, but there is a need for additional coverage in the CRA and he thought the use of those funds for additional officers was appropriate as there are officers looking for overtime. He commented they are going full speed ahead with hiring and they have instituted continuous hiring as opposed to the former hiring waves. There are currently 11 applicants in the process for certified and non- certified positions. Chief Gregory further noted there are officers assigned to CRA zones and the NOP officers are in addition to the zone officers. Vice Chair Katz wanted to present it to the Police unions to provide input. Chief Gregory thought it was a management right and they would not want to grant privileges not afforded by the Collective Bargaining Agreement. Board Member Penserga supported the request. Board Member Romelus asked why the CSO position had not been . ._._._- Ic .,,Chief Gregory explained the position may already be posted, but the language had to be corrected. Position has not been used for some time and the position was approved this fiscal year. Board Member Romelus supported the idea. Motion Board Member McCray moved to approve. Board Member Penserga seconded the motion. The motion unanimously passed. 15. New Business A. Consideration of Bid Award for Responses to the Request for Proposals for Website Design, Build, and Maintenance Services Ms. Shutt explained the website was due for an overall due to design limitations and American with Disability Act requirements. Staff issued the above RFP on January 22nd and due February 20th. She reviewed the criteria in the RFP and the scoring criteria. Four proposals received, alphabetically they are Achieve Causes or Cause Tec based on West Palm Beach; Granicus from Denver Colorado with an office in the county; ePath USA from DesMoines, Iowa; and VUP Media. The highest score was Granicus LLC. There was a tie for the second ranked firms, which were Achieve Causes and VUP Media, and last ranked application was from ePath. The cost for Granicus was 14 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Boynton Beach, Florida March 10, 2020 $23,500, including $19,500 for the website design, maintenance was hosting was $4K a year, and additional maintenance, hosting and support was $200 per hour. There could be unlimited changes to the website until the website was launched. The website would be launched in about nine months. Granicus received a higher point score due to their knowledge and experience with governmental entities, their quality of work and creativity, their organizational capacity and program development. The contract will allow up to three one-year renewals at these costs and the ability to accommodate changes in the scope of services. The contract could be terminated at any time. Staff requested two motions: if the Board opted for Granicus, because Granicus had edits to the standard contract, it be contingent on Legal review, and the Chair be authorized to execute the contract after said review. Staff will conduct reference checks and legal items. Staff recommended the Board award contract to Granicus at the above stated prices and to authorize staff to commence negotiation with Granicus LLC. Another motion was should negotiations fail with Granicus, that staff negotiate with the next highest ranked respondents who are Achieve Causes and VUP Media. Vice Chair Katz inquired how many hours of additional consultation would be needed. Ms. Shutt did not anticipate much with Granicus. They have open CMS and a non-open source which is a creative customized program. Once the website is handed over to staff, the website could be easily maintained and edited. The package has unlimited revisions, whereas the other respondents had a maximum amount of revisions before they launched. The three top respondents all have had some kind of experience with the City. Motion Vice Chair Katz moved to approve Granicus. Board Member Romelus seconded the motion. Board Member McCray asked Granicus, how many hours of consultation would be needed. Byron Gillin, Granicus representative, explained after the design process after 9 months about one to two hours. Training is included, but most calls for additional consultation pertain to ADA requirements. Vote The motion unanimously passed. Ms. Shutt requested the Board authorize staff to negotiate with the second respondents, if negotiations fail with Granicus and since the second respondents are tied, to determine which one to negotiate with. Sandra Vogel, Achieve Causes, 2012 Alto Meadows Lane, Delray Beach was present. She noted the RFP noted open source CMS, which is what she presented, but it was not what the CRA was buying. She requested clarification of the decision not to be 15 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Boynton Beach, Florida March 10, 2020 CMS and what source the website would be built into. Ms. Shutt explained addendum one had a revision to require it, but as a prelude to the requirement, it also states the website must use a cost-effective system and shall be open source CMS. Granicus did not use open source, they do a customization, and when the evaluation committee reviewed the strength of the proposal, Granicus was able o provide a customizable website for almost the price of a standard CMS. The board could select the firm that was in the best interest of the CRA weighing all the requirements. Staff only had to balance the cost effectiveness and the quality and knowledge skills the respondent could deliver. The Board could waive the requirements if it is in the Best interest of the CRA to receive the product in the most cost effective way. Ms. Vogel explained their submittal proposed Drupal or WordPress, which are both well- known and very customizable. They are getting a custom solution for their needs although it is not a custom build. Their pitch was speed to market, including the CRA's brand and all of the features outlined, and some they brought forth to future proof availability. Their proposal is probably half the time of Granicus as they are proposing just under five months understanding the CRA team members and the CRA brand and what is it that is required from a search capability from calendars to integration and third party proponents. They proposed two open source CMS, that are very customizable to the goals and in half the time. They created websites for CRAs in Dania Beach, North Miami and the Downtown Development Authority in Delray Beach. Her proposal indicated the website would be completed in four months and three weeks. Clay Williams, Cause Tec LLC, d/b/a Achieve, explained Achieve specializes in causes and civic organizations and has worked with the City for several years. They also proposed an open source product based on a Drupal platform, but chose it because it is more secure. They use Drupal aid as it supports ADA guidelines and others. They have been going through an audit with the City and helped the City with making their content accessible. They have a great deal of experience, and the current team launched over 600 website over the years and three or four websites a month and work with non- profits and civic based organizations. The proposal includes a custom design process and they typically have a liberal revision process, but the proposal limited them. The number of revisions, once design process has been completed allows for unlimited revisions. On the source issue, the advantage is the CRA owns the source and can take it to another provider and continue to provide it as with a proprietary closed system has to pay. They have not done a CRA website, but they did handle the Downtown Development Authority in West Palm Beach. They proposal indicated they would complete the website in 10 months and ten weeks. Mr. Williams explained sites could be completed in six to eight week, but it includes times for review and the contents organized. Chair Grant noted Achieve Causes already works with the City, and with VUP media they would get a website faster because they do the video. He favored VUP and thought integration of the video to the website would be beneficial. 16 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Boynton Beach, Florida March 10, 2020 Motion Vice Chair Katz moved to approve VUP Media as the second candidate if terms are not reached with the first respondent. Board Member McCray seconded the motion. The motion unanimously passed. Ms. Shutt explained the motion should include authorizing the " hair to execute the contra t, contingent on Legal review. B. Consideration of the FY 2019 - 2020 CRA Affordable and Workforce Housing Grant Program (Board Member Romelus left the dais at 7.47 p.m.) Ms. Shutt noted the Board had approved a similar,grant in 2017 for non-profits to deliver affordable and workforce housing. As a result of changes, the program was discontinued and the Board allocated the 95K to assist with the rehabilitation or development of affordable workforce housing. Staff was asked to bring this item back and the Board provide direction and specific criteria. The Board gave direction. She reviewed the criteria. Staff suggested a maximum amount per unit. Ownership should be fee simple and the target income be atm100% of the median income. (Board Member Romelus returned at 7.50 p.m.) Board direction included the program being open to for-profit and non-profit entities including previous applicants for the nonprofit affordable housing grants. No match will be required; however, the Board also instructed staff to allocate $45K for rehabilitation activities and $50K for new constructions. There were no requirements for the maximum grant amount, but staff, knowing that there isn't a requirement, suggested the Board consider a maximum per unit amount to serve more residents. The Board did not dictate a minimum number of units. The type of ownership is fee simple homeownership and the Board would like to encourage homeownership at 100% of the area median income. Access to funding is similar to the economic development grant program where payment is received 30 days after the project is completed or the work has been done for the allocated funds. The review process is a staff review with Board approval of the grants similar to the for—profit business grants, with a credit report for each applicant. The Board did discuss the instrument to secure the public interest, which could be effected through a deed restriction, or a silent second mortgage on the property. The Board requested staff for the rehab units to consider properties assessed in the property appraiser's valuation not to exceed $250K, but for new users, not knowing who the end users are, they would be grants to the developer to build affordable housing units. The Board may want to consider a silent second for a term the Board would want and would want a recapture provision if the end user sells the property before the term of the grant was finished. She noted most non-profits already have a system of preserving affordability or a land trust. 17 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Boynton Beach, Florida March 10, 2020 The Board discussed new home construction would have the soft second, handled the same way the Board handled the grant to South Florida Marine reduced over 10 years. As for grantee income, due it the projects being workforce housing, the Board opted homeownership be at 120% of the median income in Palm Beach County. Upon further discussion, the Board decided to set the maximum at 140% of the area median income. Chair Grant inquired if the homeowner get approval of application and then find a contractor or the homeowner get contractor who fills out the application for grants regarding rehabilitation. Mr. Simon explained it could be either way because the City would have to approve the work. The grant is meant for property owners, and the property owner can get conditional approval and find a contractor as well as a property owner who has a contractor can also apply knowing they can get 50% reimbursed for certain items. Staff add in additional property owners like the Commercial Fagade Grant. It is also similar to the Economic Development Grant with the exception of the eligibility to add individual homeowners, non-profit or for profit for the rehab allocations. There would be no secured interest because the amount may be too small. Chair Grant suggested starting with $5K for the rehab to it could serve more people. That was owner applies or the owner applies with a contractor, they would be treated equally so an owner who wants something to get done, they will know they will receive assistance before receiving the estimates and moving forward. Staff will add the 50% match up to $5K. If someone spends $10K they can get back$5K. Ms. Shutt favored the developer knowing where the property they will build and proposed they need to close within 30 days. Chair Grant 60 days was more reasonable. Chair Grant met with Mr. Simon regarding development in the Heart of Boynton and wanted the Board to consider allowing developers of single-family homes in the HOB to get the security grant. He wanted to allow developers, including Habitat for Humanity to get security enhancement grants for commercial and new home construction. Chair Grant thought the Board could discuss the security cameras at a future time regarding new home construction and residential improvements. Board Member Romelus liked the discussion about the applicant or the contactor applying and preferred it be both. She wanted to ensure they add that if there is any work done and a resident finds out later on the grant was available, that they can apply retroactively after six or 12 months after permits were received for rehabbed homes. Mr. Simon explained the commercial grant is 60 to 90 days. Chair Grant agreed. They will use the permit date as the starting date. Any permit issued after October 1St would be eligible for reimbursement this fiscal year. Ms. Shutt asked if the Board wanted staff to implement the program, there was a recommended time line in the staff report and they could adjust the date. If the Board approves the program contingent on all the revisions, they would issue a Notice of available funding ad April 6th and have a workshop on April 15th to familiarize people 18 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Boynton Beach, Florida March 10, 2020 with the process at noon and 6 p.m. and start accepting applications April 20th. The program will be first come, first served. Chair Grant asked about proof of payment is back of a check or cashier check and asked about credit card payment. Staff would rather have proof of payment in the form of a check, but it was noted the contractor could verify payment. They have to have a paper trail because the requirement they have to get a permit. Chair Grant asked for a motion to approve the grant application process and timeline for the new CRA Affordable and Workforce Housing Grant program and authorize staff to implement the program subject to final review by Legal Counsel. Motion Board Member Romelus moved to approve. Board Member McCray seconded the motion. The motion unanimously passed. Attorney Rossmell noted Board Resolution 20-01 needed to be readopted. Motion Board Member McCray moved to approve to readopt what the Board adopted last month. Board Member Romelus seconded the motion. The motion unanimously passed. 16. CRA Advisory Board A. Pending Assignments B. Reports on Pending Assignments C. New Assignments 17. Future Agenda Items A. Consideration of Funding of an additional Rock the Plaza Event to Promote Fish Depot and other Businesses between Federal Highway and FEC Railroad Tracks Adjacent to Veterans Park (Continued on next page.) 19 Meeting Minutes Community Redevelopment Agency Boynton Beach, Florida March 10, 2020 18. Adjournment Motion There being no further business before the Board, Vice Chair Katz moved to adjourn. Board Member Romelus seconded the motion. The motion unanimously passed. The meeting was adjourned at 8:08 p.m. Catherine Cherry Minutes Specialist 20