Minutes 02-11-21 MINUTES OF THE COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY BOARD MEETING
HELD ONLINE VIA THE GOTOWEBINAR PLATFORM
BOYNTON BEACH, FLORIDA
ON TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2021, AT 5:30 P.M.
PRESENT:
Steven B. Grant, Chair Mike Simon, Executive Director
Ty Penserga, Vice Chair Thuy Shutt, Assistant Director
Justin Katz, Board Member Tara Duhy, Board Counsel
Woodrow L. Hay, Board Member
Christina Romelus, Board Member
1. Call to Order
Chair Grant called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m.
2. Invocation
Chair Grant sang Lift Every Voice and Sing for the invocation. The members recited the
Pledge to the Flag.
3. Roll Call
Roll call was taken. A quorum was present.
4. Agenda Approval
A. Additions, Deletions, Corrections to the Agenda
B. Adoption of Agenda
Motion
Board Member Hay moved to approve the agenda. Board Member Katz seconded the
motion for discussion. He requested a broad discussion about tax increments and
some ideas about how to evolve and innovate some of the CRA's older practices as a
future agenda item.
Motion
Board Member Hay moved to approve as amended. Vice Chair Penserga seconded
the motion. The motion unanimously passed.
Meeting Minutes
Community Redevelopment Agency Board
Boynton Beach, Florida February 11, 2021
5. Legal
A. Approval of the Restrictive Covenant for Phase II of the Seabourn Cove
Tara Duhy, CRA Board Counsel, explained this was a request by the new owner of the
Seabourn Cove project that was subject to two separate DIFA agreements in 2012.
Those agreements were previously amended and assigned to Seabourn Cove LLC. In
January of this year, Seabourn Cove was purchased and the DIFA's transferred to the
new owners, Seabourn Cove Holdings, LLC. As part of the transaction, Restrictive
Covenants have to be recorded. The Restrictive Covenants for Phase I were recorded,
but not for Phase II. The DIFA for Phase II requires the CRA approve the Restrictive
Covenants prior to recording. Attorney Duhy reviewed the Restrictive Covenants as
contained in the agenda item and recommened approval.
Chair Grant asked if they could ensure the requirements were being adhered to.
Attorney Duhy responded they could, and it would require notification to the owners of
the units of the inspection. The Restrictive Covenants automatically end on the
termination of the DIFA. There are two years left on Phase I and three years left on
Phase II.
Motion
Vice Chair Penserga moved to approve. Board Member Hay seconded the motion.
The motion unanimously passed.
Mr. Simon will keep the Board apprised and noted it is a requirement for the payment.
Attorney Duhy will also monitor the DIFA deadline.
Attorney Duhy noted there was no activity to report impacting CRA's under
consideration in Tallahassee.
6. Informational Items and Disclosures by Board Members and CRA Staff:
Board Member Katz spoke to Bonnie Miskel regarding Davis Camalier and his property
on Federal Highway and Boynton Beach Boulevard.
Board Member Hay had no disclosures.
Board Member Romelus spoke with Ms. Miskel regarding the property on Federal
Highway.
Vice Chair Penserga also spoke to Ms. Miskel regarding Item 15D on the agenda.
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Chair Grant spoke with Ms. Miskel today and Colin Groff, Assistant City Manager. He
was talking with Mr. Simon and asked if there was an update on any City and CRA
discussions about parking garages and learned there were none.
A. Disclosure of Conflicts, Contacts, and Relationships for Items Presented to
the CRA Board on Agenda
7. Announcements and Awards
8. Information Only
A. Public Comment Log
9. Public Comments
Mr. Karjalainen, ITS, explained how the meeting would proceed and how the public
can participate.
Chair Grant opened Public Comments.
Tim Collins, 1022 N Federal Highway, owner of the Fish Depot Seafood Market,
commented all should have received an email from him about the ABC Equipment
Rental building, which did not close. He announced he was looking at the location to
negotiate a lease as a temporary location for the fish market. He has to move by the
end of the month. When he found out the closing did not occur, he sought alternatives
and thought there were ways to negotiate a deal around a transaction in progress and
inquired if the Board would. He identified a few other locations for his business, but
neither of them were in Boynton Beach and he wanted to stay because he has a very
strong client base.
Mr. Collins advised he sent a letter seeking information to look at a lease negotiation
when they closed, which should have been at the end of last month and the beginning
of this month. Chair Grant explained the CRA does not yet own the property and it was
subject to the current property owner and to the Board approving a temporary lease. At
prior meetings, the Board agreed to work with Mr. Collins to help him remain in the CRA
district.
Chair Grant explained they would need a motion to discuss the matter under new
business and any sort of lease would have to be approved next month. Mr. Collins
queried if the Board could approve it at a City Commission meeting and learned they
could not. Mr. Collins requested to see a standard lease, but the CRA does not have a
standard lease. The Board would have to discuss it at tonight's meeting.
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Motion
Vice Chair Penserga moved to amend to agenda to add 16 A Discussion for Mr. Collins.
Board Member Hay seconded the motion for discussion and commented he supported
whatever the Board could do to assist Mr. Collins.
Vote
The motion unanimously passed.
John O'Hara, 10960 Stafford Circle South, commented he is a member of the
Downtown Business Coalition and they were told to attend this meeting regarding the
property at 115 N Federal Highway and what they would like to see there. He
understood there was a push for workforce housing, but the other Coalition members
would like to see a boutique hotel or a seasonal business to frequent the local
businesses on Ocean Avenue and the vicinity. Chair Grant noted the item was on the
agenda as item 15 B Old Business and that the CRA is conducting a survey on the
matter.
Lois Smith, 122 NW 8th Avenue, noted there were metal rods put on the electrical poles
near 122 NW 81h Avenue on the west side of Ocean Breeze. She was unsure if the
CRA installed them, but was concerned if there would be any negative effects on the
residents. She also commented she attended the meeting a few times requesting FPL
to remove overgrowth on the electrical wires that feed into the homes and advised it
was as if they are at a standstill. Ms. Smith explained she was shocked to see how high
her water bill was last month. She compared it to the bill she got today and it was less.
The bill was close to $30 plus dollars more. She thought it was a big jump for the
residents in the Heart of Boynton and hoped someone could answer those questions.
Chair Grant requested she take a picture of the rods on the pole and submit it to the
City on its new app, which makes it easier for residents to report issues and ask
questions, but he noted it was a City/FPL question. Regarding Ms. Smith's second
question, he recommended she do the same. It was also a City of Boynton Beach and
FPL question. He did comment after she spoke at the last meeting, he drove up NW 1St
Street and saw the street lights were not working because the overgrowth blocked the
light. Ms. Smith reported she still has the same issue and it has not been addressed for
several months. Each time she calls FPL, they say they are in a meeting to try to
address it, but there has been no change. He requested she send pictures through the
app and suggested she call the Utility Department and ask for an explanation.
Board Member Hay commented he did see FPL on NW 4th Street and on 31d Street
cutting some limbs. He did not know if it was a lack of manpower, but thought perhaps
FPL could expedite the matter or add manpower. He has seen them in the
neighborhood. Ms. Smith noted this has been ongoing for months and there has been
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no change. She was concerned a fire could start when it rains heavily or there is
lightning. She hoped something would happen this time.
No one else coming forward. Public Comments was closed.
10. CRA Advisory Board
A. CRA Advisory Board Meeting Minutes - January 7, 2021
B. Pending Assignments
1. Review of Commercial Properties within Boynton Beach Boulevard
Corridor within CRA Area
a. Reports on Pending Assignments
Mr. Simon had a request from the Advisory Board on their pending assignments, which
was a review of commercial properties on the Boynton Beach Corridor. They asked for
further clarification on what the CRA Board is expecting as they report so they can close
out the item.
Chair Grant explained the Advisory Board has three options: indicate the property is
something to land bank or buy; indicate if the property is something that may have value
in the future; or indicate if the property does not fit the CRA's mission. Mr. Simon
requested clarification that those options would apply to any commercial or industrial
properties for sale and learned it was and it would be excellent if they provide a reason.
Motion
Board Member Katz so moved. Vice Chair Penserga seconded the motion. The motion
unanimously passed.
11. Consent Agenda
A. CRA Financial Report Period Ending January 31, 2021
B. Approval of CRA Board Meeting Minutes - January 12, 2021
C. Approval of Second Amendment to the Granicus, LLC Agreement for
Website Design, Build and Maintenance Services
D. Consideration of the Revised Interlocal Agreement and the Purchase and
Sale Agreement with the City of Boynton Beach for the Historic Woman's
Club of Boynton Beach located at 1010 S. Federal Highway
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12. Pulled Consent Agenda Items
Chair pulled items C and D.
C. Approval of Second Amendment to the Granicus, LLC Agreement for
Website Design, Build and Maintenance Services
Chair Grant commented when he goes to Catch Boynton.corn he is not automatically
redirected to Boynton Beach CRA.com which needs to be fixed. He looked forward to
working with them in the upcoming year and getting all the kinks out regarding the new
site.
Motion
Board Member Hay moved to approve. Board Member Romelus seconded the motion.
The motion unanimously passed.
D. Consideration of the Revised Interlocal Agreement and the Purchase and
Sale Agreement with the City of Boynton Beach for the Historic Woman's
Club of Boynton Beach located at 1010 S. Federal Highway
Chair Grant noted this Board had a second agreement with the Boynton Woman's Club.
He wanted to ensure the City honors that agreement to use the property and ensure this
organization can use it as well, especially since the CRA is giving them the building and
paying them $750K over the next three years, that they do not charge the CRA.
Thuy Shutt, Assistant Director, explained the ILA requires the previous and prior rental
agreements be honored by the City. The City would have to look at the rental
agreements before putting other restrictions in place and it would have to go back to the
City. There is an agreement with the Boynton Woman's Club and they could add
language the City shall honor all the bookings and agreements in place at the time they
take possession of the property. Chair Grant asked about other organizations such as
the Boynton Beach Garden Club and learned there was no request from the Garden
Club, it was from the Historical Society. All that was booked to the time they turn over
the land will be honored by the City and the City Commission would have to agree to
any new agreements with the Boynton Women's Club.
Motion
Board Member Romelus moved to approve. Board Member Hay seconded the motion.
The motion unanimously passed.
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Motion
Vice Chair Penserga moved to approve the remainder of the Consent Agenda. Board
Member Hay seconded the motion. The motion unanimously passed.
13. CRA Projects in Progress
A. Announcement of Website Redesign for Boynton Beach CRA.com
Bonnie Nicklien, CRA Grants and Project Manager, explained in April 2020, the CRA
entered into an agreement with Granicus to design and build a new website for the CRA
that is inclusive, informative and visually appealing. Features include, rebranding to
Boynton Beach CRA.com from the Catch Boynton website. The CRA will maintain the
former domain, and any future searches will be redirected. Ms. Nicklien reviewed the
website, which exceeded ADA standards. She thanked Debby Majors, Grants and ADA
Coordinator, and Ted Goodenough, ADA Coordinator Assistant, for their assistance and
feedback. The website also has accessibility profiles for blind users and various
cognitive abilities for ADHD. They recreated a clean organized look with easy
navigation. She noted the website has a public record request portal.
Ms. Coppins gave overview for the Business Promotions and Events Tab. When the
user selects an event tab, they are directed to the page which has photos and event
highlights. She also highlighted the business directory, which they would like to grow
and include all CRA District businesses. They highlight businesses each week. She
noted all listings must be approved by staff and be in the CRA District.
Ms. Nicklien further reviewed the Business and Development tab has business and
housing grant applications, development opportunities, RFP's/RFQ's and the SMOP
Program.
Ms. Coppins reviewed the Boynton Harbor Marina tab and the Marina amenities as well
as waterfront dining and recreational activities, with photos, listings and phone numbers
of the businesses located there.
Ms. Nicklien explained the BBCRA projects page shows completed projects, current
and future projects and additional information. They have an interactive boundary map,
Ms. Nicklien thanked Jennifer Marangos, Senior GIS Analyst, for her work on the map.
Ms. Coppin announced marketing of the new website started this week and they will roll
it out across social media this month.
Board Member Hay thought it was awesome and commended staff. There are 240
businesses on the list the CRA maintains. Staff has been going door-to-door to District
businesses to collect information.
Mr. Simon thanked the staff, and particularly Ms. Nicklien and Ms. Coppins for their hard
work on creation of the website.
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B. Marketing, Business Promotions, and Social Media Update
Renee Roberts, CRA Social Media and Communications Specialist, reviewed a
PowerPoint presentation on their business social media marketing and business
promotion efforts in January. Each week they try to share a post related to a prior
media project. They published Promenade Park which has a Scenic Trail and the
booking availability of the Historic Women's Club of Boynton Beach. Examples of posts
to encourage the public to shop and dine locally were viewed. Banana Boat and a
Valentine's Celebration on Ocean Plaza on February 13th was viewed. They also
highlighted Guaca Go and the partnership between the Boynton Harbor Marina and
Boynton Ice. Visuals of ads in the Coastal Angler were viewed.
Ms. Coppins reviewed blogs and the newsletter. The newsletter had eight categories
and the feature story answered frequently asked questions about the purpose of the
CRA. The Redevelopment Section had an overview of the Cottage District. The
hashtag Hit the Biz section highlighted five businesses. The newsletter also had
promotions and availability about the Historic Woman's Club Boynton Beach, program
information about social media outreach program (SMOP), the Boynton Beach Bucks
promotion, the new website, the Affordable Workforce Housing Grant program and the
Neighborhood Sign and Repair Grant program.
In January, they posted the final blog for Bon Appetite, an overview of That's Amore and
a recipe for their sauce. They had a blog to promote automotive and service providers
in the industrial craft district with contact information. Twelve business applied for
Boynton Beach Bucks programs. They identified how each business could benefit from
the program, and the team met with.each owner last month to develop a campaign to
promote their business. To-date, eight businesses have taken advantage of the
promotions.
C. Neighborhood Officer Program 4th Quarter Report for FY 2019-2020 and
1 st Quarter Report for FY 2020-2021
Sergeant Diehl, Boynton Beach Police Department, reviewed the fourth quarter 2020
report and first quarter of fiscal year 2021. He noted the fourth quarter was in the height
of the pandemic. During that quarter, Officer Paramore was still on light duty and
Officer Rivera held her own. They handled the Back to School event as much as they
could with what they had. In the first quarter of 2021, it was Back to School on a limited
scale, but they also facilitated the holidays and had more Shop with a Cop outings this
year than prior years. The Secret Santa initiative they have was scaled back due to
COVID. He noted for the fiscal 20/21 first quarter report, the pictures did not come
through, which he agreed to provide. Moving forward, he introduced a new Community
Service Officer assigned to the Neighborhood Officer Program, Emily Vasquez who is
assigned to the CRA District.
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Officer Vasquez stated she was seeking to give back as much as they can, have a
presence and show they care and they are there for the people to do what they can to
help them. She will work community policing at the1550 N Federal Highway office.
Sergeant Diehl explained she is in the final weeks of training.
14. Public Hearing
15. Old Business
A. Consideration of Fiscal Year 2020-2021 Budget Amendment for Unreserved
Fund Balance
Mr. Simon explained there is $445,561 available as they close out the Fiscal Year 2020,
which are unused funds from that fiscal year they can move forward. He noted the
Board had previously discussed the Veterans Park parking lot. Board Member Katz
supported the staff recommendation, commenting the park is a gem and restoring or
upgrading the parking lot is needed. Many of the veterans who go to the park are of a
certain age. They need the parking and it could be a safety issue. He asked if the fund
balance would handle all the parking upgrades. Mr. Simon responded these funds plus
some funding the City has available would handle all the upgrades.
Vice Chair Penserga agreed with Board Member Katz. He asked if there are any other
patrons that would need the parking.lot or it would be just for the park. Mr. Simon
explained it would be a City parking lot, like they have at the 115 N Federal and Town
Square sites. Mr. Simon anticipated additional parking needs on the weekend for Fish
Depot or any other member of the public to access shopping or just be used for
overflow. It would be primarily for business in the area near Veterans Park.
Chair Grant was at the park on February 3rd and did not see the need for additional
parking. He asked if there would be a sidewalk constructed or people would have to
walk on the road to get to Veterans Park. Mr. Simon thought they would have to cross
at a pedestrian crosswalk and it would match up to the existing right-of-way height and
dovetail into the sidewalk on the other side of the park. There would be lighting
upgrades. Chair Grant did not think they needed to spend the funds on a parking lot
when there is a parking garage across the street and that it was not the best use of the
funds. He saw the parking lots on Quantum Boulevard and the City and developer tore
down six acres of trees for a parking lot that will not be used, except maybe 10 times a
year for events. He used that area for parking for the last eight years without any issue.
Vice Chair Penserga asked where the gravel area was and if there any safety concerns
for the seniors who use the park. Mr. Simon responded any time there is a lot used that
is not improved, some would consider the uneven ground and mix of gravel less
desirable than a paved parking lot. City staff has not provided them with any official
safety concerns. It was more of a practical thought that a smooth walking surface is
better than what currently exists.
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Tim Collins, Fish Depot Bar and Grill agreed with Chair Grant. He thought covering the
gravel with some sort of covering and lighting would be an improvement, improving
some of the homelessness in the area, so that part would be a prudent use of the funds.
Chair Grant thought lighting on NE 4th Street would be a better use. He favored
spending funds in other areas of the City such as Galaxy Park, the pool on Ocean
Avenue and NE 4th Street. He noted there are canopy trees there and he would not
want to tear them down and replant them, taking decades to grow to the same amount
tree canopy.
Board Member Katz asked if the plan called for removal of trees or if they could work
around them. Mr. Simon explained the plans showed their removal, but the CRA Board
and/or City Commission could request a redesign to accommodate the trees. Chair
Grant thought it made no sense to have exits and entrances that people have to walk
across to get the sidewalk on the other street. He noted most people use the entrance
on NE 3rd Street to get to that from Buds and CVS. The way it is currently designed is
to maximize concrete, which he did not think is what they wanted for this location.
Mr. Simon commented this was an exercise if the Board wants to spend money on
parking for the site and then City staff can work on the design to accommodate the
Board's concerns. Chair Grant wanted to have it in a new lighting projects within the
CRA District line item.
Chair Grant requested a motion to move the funds, in coordination with the City. There
was no line item for City improvements, but the funds could be allocated for NE 4th
Street improvementsNeterans Park area, or put it into site work and development and
drawn on another project when identified.
Motion
Board Member Katz supported his original thoughts and made a motion, pending further
preservation of trees and lighting, to allocate the funds for the purpose of the parking lot.
The motion died for lack of a second.
Motion
Board Member Hay moved to create a line item the Executive Director spoke about and
put funds in other areas of the CRA District. The motion is for lighting and streetscape
improvements consistent with the CRA Redevelopment Plan. Vice Chair Penserga
seconded the motion. The motion passed 4-1, (Board Member Katz dissenting.)
Chair Grant requested the members forward their lighting priorities to Mr. Simon so he
could work with the City.
B. Discussion Regarding Prevailing Wage, Benefits and Apprenticeship
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Policies for CRA Procurement and Requests for Proposals
Attorney Duhy recalled at the request of Board Member Katz, they were to bring back
information from other municipalities about prevailing wage programs and other items,
for the Board to consider. The attachments had three options the Board could consider.
Chair Grant noted the minimum wage would increase from $10 to $15 an hour. He
thought the Board could include in its proposals that anyone looking for TIF or property
from the CRA will pay workers a minimum wage of $15. He also suggested any
apprenticeship programs required in any Request for Proposal (RFP) receiving TIF or
lump sum funding could be considered as developers providing a community benefit by
paying living wages and having apprenticeship opportunities on new City projects. He
did not know what they could do for the Cottage District, but if the developer is
requesting funding, the Board could request items in consideration for the funds they
provide.
Attorney Duhy explained there are usually term sheets that list items for the Board to
consider when negotiating contracts for particular projects and sought to provide
direction.
Board Member Katz supported the first option because he did not want trained and
skilled labor being paid minimum wages and prevailing wages are substantially higher.
They might be paying trained or non-local subcontractors $15 now, but some of the
prevailing wages for some trained iron workers or masons far exceeds minimum wage,
and he wanted to have strong language with affordable or workforce housing provisions.
He would not want anything about TIF in any policy or Resolution. His goal with the
resolution was to force developers to pay appropriate wages because if they, as a CRA
subsidizes a project, it means the developer is not paying appropriate wages: the CRA
is. The developer has to acknowledge that they need to pay people what they are worth
and not subcontract out and use less skilled and less valued labor. He wanted to go
with the prevailing wage index for what the trades are worth on the free market. There
are prevailing wage indices based on surveys of specific trades.
Attorney Duhy included references so there is a definable prevailing wage for project
workers. Chair Grant commented the reason why he favored subsidizing the developer
was for housing to be attainable. Affordable housing projects are heavily subsidized by
the State in order to offer rents for 30% to 60% median income earners. If they want
developers to pay prevailing wages and not subsidize the development, costs increase.
If costs increase, revenues increase commensurately, and the prices for rents for new
construction development homeownership will increase. His thoughts regarding
Boynton being a working community, was this was not an aspect of affordability which is
30% to 60% of the area median income. It was more for workforce which is 80% to
140% of the area median income. They can subsidize development to reduce costs
10% or 15%, and create the ability for the workforce community to achieve
homeownership, and it is not something you can find elsewhere east of 1-95.
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Chair Grant commented they do not have to use free CRA funds, but can subsidize
similarly to Seabourn Cove to be environmentally friendly. He favored subsidizing any
development for environmental, homeownership, and economic development reasons.
The median income in the City is $53K, which is about 15% lower than Palm Beach
County. In order to be competitive and have quality products, they have to subsidize it.
He referenced 500 Ocean, Casa Costa, Marina Village, Seabourn Cove and a few
others. The products were subsidized to decrease the market value to be attainable.
Board Member Katz commented when they look at some of those deals and the fact
that all of those projects were flipped or in the process, he did not know if there needed
to be subsidies for some of the projects for items the CRA requires when the developer
can sell the project for millions in profit in five to 10 years. In some instances, the new
owners can still receive TIF funding carried over from the original developer upon sale
and transfer of the property. He did not want to automatically subsidize and set a
standard. He thought this topic would be part of a discussion at the next meeting. He
did not want to put it in writing because then developers will come in and automatically
expect TIF. Some of the projects constructed got TIF funding, they lie to get funding
and then sell for massive amounts.
Motion
Chair Grant thought they should have a future discussion at the next meeting to get
comparable evidence. He asked if Board Member Katz wanted, for a motion, a
discussion for any CRA incentivized project with a minimum threshold.
Attorney Duhy recommended as a motion, the first bullet could be framed as a policy in
the terms mentioned, which would provide the Board flexibility without requiring setting
parameters. They can establish a policy using that bullet or any of the bullets.
Board Member Katz requested confirmation that by approving the first bullet, it would be
mandatory to bring up a discussion item for any CRA funded project and it would be up
to the Board to determine if the project crossed the threshold that would warrant
funding.
Vice Chair Penserga seconded the motion. He noted what other cities and counties
were doing. West Palm Beach has a program in place. Construction contracts become
void and no funds are released if construction contracts are not certified. They have to
prove they pay their workers a prevailing wage, and they say what happens if a
developer renege on the agreement. One mechanism to ensure the agreement is
adhered to, is to not approve funding in one fell swoop and make payments instead.
Attorney Duhy requested the motion be amended to add and include the ability for
confirmation of payment of a living wage.
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Motion
Board Katz moved to include the provision as amended. Board Member Hay seconded
the motion. The motion unanimously passed.
Mr. Simon commented there are many ways to handle projects that are suitable and the
Board could address them on a case-by-case basis. Board Member Katz asked if the
way to move forward with the apprenticeship program was to set a specific minimum
number of hours of the project that would require apprenticeships to be working.
Vice Chair Penserga noted Broward County has an apprenticeship program. He asked
if the county had its own apprenticeship program developers could avail themselves or if
it was an apprenticeship program the developer has on their own. Attorney Duhy will
get a summary of the program and email it to the Board Members. Vice Chair Penserga
sought to find a good model.
C. Update on Purchase and Development Agreement with Boynton Beach
Cottage District Development, LLC for the Cottage District Infill Housing
Redevelopment Project
Mr. Simon explained the CRA staff met with City staff to discuss the site plan under the
above RFP/RFQ. They took significant time taking the comments and adding them to
the revisions. They have a scheduled pre-application meeting tomorrow with staff and
the development team at 1 p.m. Staff would provide a more significant update at the
March meeting. They did request a contract for part of the Oyer property. Chair Grant
pointed out there is a property listed above appraised value and he wanted to know how
the Board feels about purchasing it or helping the developer to purchase it. It will help
with the flow and additional units in a townhouse type of format. If it is not included, the
property would most likely become a rental property.
Mr. Simon explained the property appraised in the low $200K and the owner listed it for
$375K. He spoke with the owner. The property is rented and that is what she wants for
the sale price. Chair Grant commented she will have to find a new homestead. The last
time Chair Grant saw it listed, it was for$50K. He asked if the Board wanted to make
an offer for the property and mentioned the CRA has over $500K in the line item. The
last appraisal was done over a year. The asking price is easily $100K to $150K over
value, he thought it was substantially over valued.
Chair Grant requested the Board make an offer for $300K as he thought it was the final
piece of the project. Board Member Hay supported the acquisition, but thought Mr.
Simon was in a better position to negotiate a price. Chair Grant commented whatever
offer is made should be the final offer. The Property Appraiser's Office says the house is
valued of$89K and land at $30K, He thought the land value increased to $50K plus for
similarly sized lots and location. It has a tear down house from the 1930s. Mr. Simon
explained buying the land will not give them eight more units. It is a very small piece.
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Chair Grant thought the property to the west surrounds it and he felt the value was
about $150K last year. At that time, they could not agree on a price. Chair Grant
thought the price of new construction for three-bedroom, two bath homes was about
$275K, which he thought was fair. Board Member Hay agreed.
Motion
Board Member Hay so moved to set a purchase price for $275K. Board Member Katz
seconded the motion. The motion unanimously passed. It will be the final offer from the
CRA Board.
D. Discussion of Status of Purchase and Development Agreement with Ocean
One Boynton, LLC for the Ocean One Project
Attorney Duhy explained this item was two-fold: the first item is a motion to confirm the
expiration date and termination of the TIF Agreement and the first amendment to the
agreement signed by the parties, which automatically expired January 21, 2021, which
a motion would finalize.
The second item is for the developer to commence construction of a public plaza on
property purchased by Ocean One as part of the project. At the last meeting, the Board
voted to waive compliance with the provision which expired to this meeting. The options
are to waive compliance or instruct Attorney Duhy to notify the developer of their breach
or give another option.
Bonnie Miskel, on behalf of Davis Camalier, the property owner, approached staff to
advise regarding the TERFA Agreement, he could not get his client and potential
developer to a point to redevelop the site. They suggested allowing the TERFA to run
out.
Since the last meeting, they spoke with Mr. Simon and Mr. Groff and they want to
redevelop the site in a way not contemplated by the TERFA. They approached City and
CRA staff on the possibility of a City-funded parking garage her client would lease back
for a number of years. Her client has a silent partner willing to come forward with it, but
they wanted additional time to represent something economically viable. At the time,
they looked for six-months. Since the conversation with Messrs. Simon and Groff, they
are expecting a Letter of Interest (LOI), which would make redevelopment of the site
possible. She has nothing to show or represent for the Board to consider. They want
some additional time to set the terms and concept and present it to the Board. If
acceptable, they would amend the site plan to get final approval of a project.
Attorney Miskel advised they need 90 days to go to contract and have a concept plan
with sufficient detail. There was a condition of the sale and purchase, which they would
proceed with, but the developer would like to be able to come back in 90 days with
something and she thought building a plaza only to demolish it later was not practical.
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Community Redevelopment Agency Board
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She requested a 90-day extension, at least for commencement of construction and $5K
in consideration.
Chair Grant had no objection to waiting the 90 days.
Board Member Katz asked what the estimated cost was if the property owner had to
comply with the existing provisions to develop a park. Ms. Miskel assumed it would be
$1 OK to $20K and then to tear it out. Board Member Katz wanted to increase the
contribution. The land was acquired for pennies basically and the reason the land was
given to the developer may not be realized so he supported a higher amount such as
$20K for an adjacent park or improvements in the area, and a few more months
extension.
Chair Grant asked if a donation to one of the Town Square projects would be
acceptable. Board Member Katz was receptive to any uses that would benefit the
public.
Attorney Miskel explained if the Board would treat this as an arms-length transaction,
she had a project that was a multi-million-dollar project where they were seeking an 18-
month extension for $60K. For 90-days, she thought $20K was a significant cost given
the value of the improvements are around $20K. If the Board's interest is a sum larger
or equal to the value of the improvements, if they could consider some of them at some
time, it would be proper. She noted Board Member Katz suggested he would be
agreeable to that. She thought if the Board wants to grant an extension, they would
request up to six months or sooner. Chair Grant commented the Board has to wait till
the next meeting to receive an answer to the $20K and six-month consideration. There
were no objections.
Motion
Chair Grant commented there were no objections to dissolving the TERFA Board
Member Katz was fine with the $20K for a six-month extension given the property was
conveyed for basically nothing and so moved.
Ms. Miskel requested clarification. Attorney Duhy explained the offer was a six-month
extension for $20K, and get a response or counter offer at the March meeting. Chair
Grant clarified it was for the public good and they do have naming rights available for
the Town Square project as well.
Vote
Vice Chair Penserga seconded the motion. The motion unanimously passed.
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Community Redevelopment Agency Board
Boynton Beach, Florida February 11, 2021
Motion
Board Member Katz moved to confirm the expiration and termination of the TERFA on
January 16, 2021. Vice Chair Penserga seconded the motion. The motion unanimously
passed.
E. Discussion and Consideration of Survey Questions for Community Input for
the CRA Project Located at 115 N. Federal Highway
Mr. Simon presented the item. The Board had previously discussed whether to move
forward with a Letter of Interest (LOI) regarding the above property or whether to issue
a Request for Qualifications (RFQ.) After discussion, the Board wanted the CRA to
draft questions with input from the Board and forward them to the Advisory Board which
was done on February 4t". Their responses to the draft questions were included and he
noted they added an additional question.
Chair Grant appreciated CRA staff's work and wanted to review each question and then
offer recommendations. Legal could draft a disclaimer that the resulting project may not
be reflective of the survey results.
Question 1. Would you like to see a future redevelopment project incorporate a
mix of uses, such as commercial and resident?
Chair Grant commented residential and commercial is vague and he suggested listing
the uses in groups such as office space, retail space, rental apartments, condominiums,
green space, open space and transit authority and he defined the categories. He
thought answering yes or no did not provide much input. Vice Chair Penserga agreed.
The Board did talk about corporate headquarters, incubator space and others, but it
would be covered under the office category. Chair Grant thought it would be beneficial
to use check boxes. He thought a description where office could be co-working space,
or corporate office or individual office retail could encompass a grocery store, small
boutique, restaurant, or condominium.
Question 2. Would you like to see a full-service grocery store (12,000 up to
20,000 square feet) as a commercial component incorporated into a future
project?
Chair Grant thought the question should be amended to read "Would you like to see a
full-service grocery store and/or a corporate headquarters component from 12K to 20K
square feet incorporated into the future project?"
Question 3. Would you like to see a hotel incorporated into a future project?
There were no changes to this question.
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Community Redevelopment Agency Board
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Question 4. Would you like to see workforce housing as a component of a future
project?
Chair Grant thought the question should read: "Would you like to see government
subsidized housing included in the project? which could can affordable or workforce
housing and not just market-rate housing.
Board Member Katz thought the Ordinance out mandate workforce housing and he
asked if Chair Grant wanted more than would be required. Chair Grant understood the
first workforce housing ordinance required units to be included, but the second
ordinance removed that requirement.
Mr. Simon explained workforce housing is not mandatory. A certain percentage of
units out have to be affordable/workforce units if the developer sought a density
bonus, and the number of units that out be affordable out be calculated using the
formula for the density bonus. He asked if more workforce housing was wanted. He
also recommended not mentioning government housing because it has a negative
connotation, although it should not.
Chair Grant disagreed because the CRA subsidizes the project to make it affordable,
but did agree it could have a negative connotation. He suggested asking if the
community out like to see a mixed-income component of a future project. Mr. Simon
commented they have a mixed-income component in a future project.
Board Member Katz thought all agreed some people who take the survey may reject
that type of project, as some people think that workforce or affordable attracts poor
people. Mr. Simon commented they want to discourage a Not in My Backyard (NIMBY)
mindset. Chair Grant commented with a mixed-income project, they are not defining it.
It out have different price points. Board Member Katz suggested something akin to
seeing housing options that cater to a variety of income levels. Board Member Hay
commented if he is surveys that are wordy, he does not respond to them and it is a
turn off. it Grant restated instead of having workforce housing, the survey would
ask the participant if they out like to see a variety of income housing available in a
future project. He thought the Board could discuss the matter in the future.
Question 5: Would you like to see larger than required public open space(s)
incorporated into the design of a future project?
There were no changes.
Question 6: Would you like to see additional public parking spaces incorporated
into a future project?
Chair Grant added a new question and prefaced it as he anticipated the Board out
not want the question: "Would you like to see paid parking fors eci I events and high
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traffic times?" He asked the question because if they have paid parking, they could
have additional public parking because the fee would fund the additional public parking.
Board Member Romelus asked why he asked the question if he anticipated the
response would be no. Chair Grant responded it was to get the answer. If they get a
zero percent response, it would signify no one wants paid parking. He thought it may
help if people understand they have to pay for parking lots and garages and to have
adequate parking, someone has to pay for it. For example, if they have a transit
authority, residents would not want people parking there for the entire day. If additional
parking is wanted, it has to be paid for and most transit authorities have paid parking
except for Tri-Rail. In Washington DC, all the metro parking lots cost money.
Board Member Katz was fine with the question as stated in question six because he
anticipated all would say no to paid parking. If they want to continue to provide parking
or increase parking, it will come at a price in the future. He thought rather than asking
what type of parking, paid or unpaid, if people want more parking, the Board knows it
has to be paid for somehow and it could be addressed in the future.
Chair Grant thought the combination of adding the second question, if 90% want
additional parking but only 10% would want to pay for it, it shows the disconnect for
leaders to determine what the public wants and how to effect it. He supported the
additional question.
Mr. O'Hara commented on behalf of the Downtown Business Coalition, the hotel was
important to their perspective as Boynton has not addressed it adequately. People
have no place to come and stay in Boynton Beach and they have to go to Delray Beach.
He liked the idea of a boutique hotel and a place for tourists to come and suggested the
115 Federal Highway property as the hotel site. There is a chance to draw a vision of an
attractive downtown. He noted there is a new Hyatt on Atlantic Avenue and Federal
Highway in the Delray downtown. Chair Grant noted hotels were addressed in Question
3. Chair Grant advised he favored providing TIF funding for a hotel to come to the
downtown. It would impact jobs and the aesthetics of the downtown. He commented the
fishing industry was strong.
Board Member Katz explained a hotel on the corner of Federal and Ocean was
proposed for decades and they still maintain to build a hotel in this area. He thought
that corner was a better location for a hotel than along the railroad tracks.
Mr. Simon requested clarification on Question 1 and the boxes for green space and
open space. He did not know if the survey taker would know if those uses would
occupy the entire space instead of incorporated into the project. Some of it is already
required to be incorporated via Code and some could be requested. He asked with the
transit authority, he thought Question 7 addressed the matter. Chair Grant agreed. He
thought they should expand on the commercial and residential component to say office,
retail, apartments and condos and the public would understand the differences of those
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categories. He requested the Board modify the question to state: Would you like to see
a future development project incorporate: office, retail, rental apartments,
condominiums and have four boxes to check instead of asking for commercial and
residential as a whole.
The Board would incorporate the grocery store and corporate headquarters into
Question 2.
Question 4 was modified and they added a new question between Question 6
and 7 regarding parking for special events and during high traffic times.
Char Grant opened public comments.
Bradley Miller, Urban Design Studio, speaking on his own noted in Question 1, the
zoning for this property is already slated for a mixed-use development through the CRA
Redevelopment Plan and the Code requires it have a mix of uses. As to the parking, he
commented it was attractive to come to Delray and park and not have to pay for
parking. Parking progresses over time and as a community grows, parking is stronger
and they could price parking. He recommended not wanting to discourage people from
coming initially because of the cost. Attract the people first, the parking will come and
let the paid parking come later as the area develops.
Mike Weiner commented in the beginning everyone wanted a Borders book store for
their downtown. He cautioned buildings are meant to last decades and they have to
have a sense of place. Great places are based on how they are reinvented as change
comes. He urged caution that the Board look far enough over the horizon.
Chair Grant asked, in reference to the 115 Federal Highway site, if the Board wanted to
ask adjacent property owners if they would sell their property or just use the CRA
property. Board Member Katz thought if the Board has an opportunity to acquire them
they should, but he did not want people to weaponized the question. They do not have
to include that question.
Chair Grant noted Question 8: "Are you a resident or business owner in Boynton
Beach?" was added.
Vice Chair Penserga asked if the Board was asking for contact information from the
survey taker and if the intention was to gather any other information from the
participants.
Mr. Simon explained they have to get the survey back by March. The survey will be
submitted in an email to those on their list, as a fillable PDF online to several thousand
people. They would use Survey Monkey and city contacts. They have a limited time to
issue the survey and compile the results.
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Vice Chair Penserga noted when people view change.org or some other petition, in
order to give the survey weight, he needs to know if the participants are real. Mr. Simon
responded they could add space for the participants name. Chair Grant noted Survey
Monkey limits responses by IP address. He thought that was the best way to move
forward, especially using email. They could always use paper surveys at City Hall.
Motion
Board Member Hay moved to approve the survey as amended. Board Member Katz
seconded the motion. The motion unanimously passed.
F. Consideration of the Third 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)
Motion
Board Member Hay moved to approve. Board Member Romelus seconded the motion.
Thuy Shutt, Assistant Director, explained Habitat for Humanity received grant funds to
build affordable housing. One last unit was completed today and they received their
Certificate of Occupancy. The Board previously granted an extension to January 31St to
complete the paperwork and got an extension to February 15th to submit a financial
review report for reimbursement. Habitat for Humanity needed the additional time
because they also have to submit a financial report statement showing how the funds
were spent. All will be submitted by March 31St. Pictures of the update were contained in
Attachment 2.
Vote
The motion unanimously passed. Commissioner Romelus requested they not require
so much paperwork. Ms. Shutt explained this program is no longer in effect. The next
affordable housing grant program will require a lot less paperwork. This was for the
non-profit organization program implemented three years ago.
G. Consideration of a Loan Release for the Small Business Disaster Relief
Forgivable Loan to Beach Tennis, LLC
Motion
Board Member Katz moved to approve. Board Member Hay seconded the motion. The
motion unanimously passed.
H. Consideration of Eligibility Requirements for the Economic Development
Grant Programs for FY 2020 — 2021
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This pertained to rent reimbursements for take-out restaurants. Many restaurants
became take out only. He thought they should help them as they are brick and mortar
establishments. He hoped they would be given Tier 2 status.
Tim Collins was unsure if his business would be eligible and commented their kitchen
is in a food trailer. He would have to expand his location by 50% or more, but the CRA
does offer interior and exterior build out grants.
Motion
Board Member Romelus moved to approve. Board Member Hay seconded the motion.
It was noted the deadline to apply was up to one year from receiving their Business Tax
Receipt from the City.
Vote
The motion unanimously passed.
I. Consideration of First Amendment to the Phase II Interlocal Agreement for
The Town Square project.
Chair Grant commented this item needed to be removed from the table and off the
agenda until the City can respond appropriately.
Motion
Board Member Hay so moved. The motion was duly seconded. The motion
unanimously passed.
16. New Business
The Fish Depot Market.
Attorney Duhy explained by statute, they would need to notice a lease, which is
considered a form of disposal of property and it requires 30 days to publish it in a
newspaper.
Chair Grant commented at the next meeting, they can approve or not approve passage
of the rental agreement. Attorney Duhy explained they have to publish a notice for 30
days in a newspaper of general circulation. Chair Grant asked if they had to wait 30
days if a rental agreement from the property owner comes with the property. Mr. Simon
explained their current agreement with the property owner required the property be
delivered vacant. Chair Grant thought they would have to agree to a sixth amendment
to the contract, to allow the Fish Market to have their offer to the CRA included with the
purchase and sale of the property. Chair Grant commented it is almost nearly
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impossible to get the current property owner to enter an agreement the Board would
enter into tonight and deal with zoning and the Business Tax Receipt in a new location.
Mr. Simon explained everything is in place. Earlier in the day, Ken Dodge, CRA
Counsel, did not believe another amendment would be necessary and all is lined up for
closing. The current deadline is February 26, 2021. Chair Grant asked what are they
willing to accept for a rental agreement in the next 15 days and it is pre-approved with
this Board.
Mr. Collins commented he opened his bar and grill in 22 days and he understood, the
CRA was purchasing the property with the thought in mind of a developer putting up a
large development. He thought if they could arrange a lease if there a break down, they
would need a short, three or six-month, notice to vacate. He hoped for a three-year
lease, unless there is already an approved project for the location . The property is an
older building and not improved. An unimproved older building goes for $8 to $10 per
square foot. An improved older building is about $15 a square foot and would even be
okay with going more towards the top end. The terms would be in favor of the City and
CRA and would not interfere with development. Mr. Collins noted there is an empty lot
between the building, which he would like to turn into a green space.
Chair Grant summarized Mr. Collins wanted the CRA to pre-approve a one-year
renewal lease for a period of three years, with a 90-day notice to vacate without cause.
The rent would be $2,500 a month from March 1, 2021 to February 28, 2022. Chair
Grant supported doing whatever the CRA could to assist Mr. Collins, if the Board gives
Legal the option to accept an exchange with this type of lease. He commented it may
not be with Mr. Collins and someone else may try to undercut Mr. Collins, but he
thought most would not be seeking this type of lease. Board Member Katz was not
comfortable asking staff to iron out a complex agreement that may or may not go to Mr.
Collins that may impede development. He did not support a lease at this time. Board
Member Hay agreed.
Attorney Duhy explained they could do that, but she would not recommend it. All they
have in the current agreement is whether the property they are purchasing is vacant.
The CRA does not have control over the term of the lease and there are very few ways
to review the lease. They CRA could move forward, but it would require negotiating with
the existing owner and there are a lot of other terms they did not discuss. The CRA
Board cannot void the terms of a lease that a new tenant coming in would accept. Chair
Grant hoped in March the Board could work with him. They can publicly notice the
property as soon as they have it, but it would be 30 days from then. The economic
development and rent reimbursement grants are available.
Mr. Collins commented he did not want to impede a development and they would be
willing to accept language to go forward. He hoped to create a lease they could review..
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Board Member Katz was not comfortable with any scenario. Mr. Simon announced he
respects the Board's attempts to help the business owner, but he did not think there
was any way around the video and minutes of the meeting and discussion about how to
circumvent the disposal process. He advised it was a bad idea.
Chair Grant commented they will continue to try to assist Mr. Collins. The fifth
extension they could put the property up for disposal and Mr. Collins should submit a
LOI. The first time they could discuss a lease would be in April. May 11th would be the
earliest a lease could be approved, if for a special session. Attorney Duhy agreed. She
thought with continued interest, he should submit a LOI with rental terms they would
agree to.
17. Future Agenda Items
A. MLK Jr. Boulevard Corridor Commercial Redevelopment and Affordable
Multi-Family Rental Apartment Project Update
B. Update on Sara Sims Park Amphitheater Plans
C. Ocean Avenue Lighting
Chair Grant requested adding TIF financing as a future agenda item. He requested
information from the past and comparables and expenses with examples of Las
Ventanas, Casa Costa, One Boynton and Seaborn Cove. More specifically he wanted
the time frame for TIG, time frame, construction costs, sales price and an executive
summary of their requirements for the last 10 years such as how many tenants, in the
commercial locations to get the TIF. Chair Grant was excited regarding the funding
balance to light Ocean Avenue and other areas in the CRA District that need lighting as
well.
Mr. Karjalainen explained how the public could access a recording of the meeting.
18. Adjournment
There being no further business to discuss, Chair Grant adjourned the meeting at 9:06
p.m.
Catherine Cherry
Minutes Specialist
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