Minutes 05-11-21 Minutes of the Community Redevelopment Agency Board Meeting
Held on Tuesday, May 11, 2021, at 5:30 p.m.
Via GoToWebinar Online Meeting & City Hall Commission Chambers
100 E. Ocean Avenue, Boynton Beach, Florida
Present:
Steven B. Grant, Chair Mike Simon, Executive Director
Ty Penserga, Vice Chair Thuy Shutt, Assistant Director
Woodrow L. Hay, Board Member Kathryn Rossmell, Board Counsel
Christina Romelus, Board Member
Justin Katz, Board Member
1. Call to Order
Chair Grant called the meeting to order at 5:31 p.m. Alan Karjalainen, Web Design
Coordinator, read a statement explaining how the meeting would proceed and how the
public could participate in the meeting.
2. Invocation
The invocation was given by Chair Grant, followed by the members reciting the Pledge
of Allegiance to the Flag.
3. Roll Call
A quorum was present.
4. Agenda Approval
A. Additions, Deletions, Corrections to the Agenda
B. Adoption of Agenda
Motion
Vice Chair Penserga moved to approve the agenda. Board Member Katz seconded the
motion. The motion passed unanimously.
5. Legal
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
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Board Members Katz, Hay and Romelus had no disclosures.
Vice Chair Penserga attended a Downtown Business Coalition meeting last week.
Chair Grant also attended the Downtown Business Coalition meeting. He announced
he does not represent Tim Collins. Last Thursday, he attended a meeting at Ocean
Breeze East. One concern raised was Crime Prevention Through Environmental
Design (CPTED). Because the building design allowed for stairwells to be open to all
sides of the roads, people use it as a walk through. He thought they should ensure
future site plan reviews include CPTED to ensure resident safety.
7. Announcements and Awards
8. Information Only
A. Public Comment Log
B. Public Relations Articles Associated with the CRA
9. Public Comments
Chair Grant noted Mr. Camalier was present and assumed he would speak about the
115 Federal Highway item,
10. CRA Advisory Board
A. CRA Advisory Board Meeting Minutes -April 1, 2021
B. Pending Assignments
1. Review of Commercial Properties within the CRA Area (TABLED 5/6/21)
Mike Simon, CRA Executive Director, explained the CRA Advisory Board was tasked
with reviewing four properties in the CRA District. The properties were presented to the
Board by staff. After discussion and a vote, the Board decided, because there were
several new members present, to table the item so they could go into the field to further
investigate the properties. They will come back in June to discuss them in greater
detail.
Chair Grant commented they need to know about these properties each meeting
because sometimes the properties sell quickly. He will attend the next meeting, and
show them Google Streetscape, the property appraiser's maps showing values and
other commercial and residential sites that provide recently sold information. Mr. Simon
explained he and Ms. Nicklien have already done so. Staff provides them with every
available resource. He will remind them of those websites at the next meeting. Chair
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Grant thought it was imperative to go through the properties. If they do not have a
decision, it should be added to the "Pursue" column at a later date option.
11. Consent Agenda
A. CRA Financial Report Period Ending April 30, 2021
B. Approval of CRA Board Meeting Minutes -April 13, 2021
C. Approval of Commercial Property Improvement Grant Program in the
Amount of$12,405.90 for AIMS Marketing Systems Inc. Located in Ocean
Palm Plaza at 1600 N. Federal Highway, Unit 12
D. Approval of Commercial Rent Reimbursement Grant Program in the Amount
of$13,026 for AIMS Marketing Systems Inc. Located in Ocean Palm Plaza
at 1600 N. Federal Highway, Unit 12
E. Approval of Commercial Property Improvement Grant Program in the
Amount of $17,433.23 for Aurora's Mexican Kitchen Inc. Located at 410 E.
Boynton Beach Boulevard, Unit C
F. Approval of Commercial Rent Reimbursement Grant Program in the Amount
of $12,900 for Aurora's Mexican Kitchen Inc. Located at 410 E. Boynton
Beach Boulevard, Unit C
G. Approval of Commercial Property Improvement Grant Program in the
Amount of $17,535.98 for Patterson Plaza, LLC Located at 1815 S. Federal
Highway
Motion
Vice Chair Penserga moved to approve. Board Member Katz seconded the motion. The
motion passed unanimously.
Individuals who applied for commercial facade grants were present as noted below:
Aurora's Ramos, President of Aurora's Mexican Kitchen, was present. Pablo Del Real,
Vice President, explained he and his wife moved into the 410 E. Boynton Beach
Boulevard Unit C in late October and they have been trying to get the unit up to speed
as a commercial kitchen use. Mrs. Ramos wants to cook the food she grew up with
using natural ingredients. Chair Grant commented the CRA has programs to help
market the business and the Board wants to work with her. He requested they let the
Board know when they are open.
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Clint Oakley has lived on Boynton Beach Boulevard for 35 years. He is located at
1600 N. Federal Highway, Units 11 and 12. He would like to clean up the building and
make it presentable, provide employment, and provide good quality marketing for the
local businesses. He has good plans for the office and has two employees working
inside and several outside in the field.
Brittany Patterson provided a statement on behalf of Patterson Plaza and she thanked
all who reviewed and approved their application. They were looking forward to
enhancing this area in the community.
12. Pulled Consent Agenda Items
None.
13. CRA Projects in Progress
A. Marketing, Business Promotions, and Social Media Update
Renee Roberts, Social Media and Communications Specialist had a presentation
showing the marketing, promotions and social media updates that were handled in April.
The Board Members viewed the presentation, promoting the Spring issue of
Redevelopment Works, the CRA's newsletter and upcoming promotional events to be
held during the summer. Examples of posts promoting small businesses were viewed.
A quarter page add in the Coastal Angler Magazine was viewed promoting Valtect Fuel
and Marine Diesel fuel at the Marina. A quarter page ad promoting dining, diving,
fishing, boating and jet skiing was also viewed.
Mercedes Coppin, Business Promotions and Events Manager, announced staff
promoted Boynton Beach Bucks for the Your CBD Store and worked with the owner to
identify a promotion, which was $10 off a purchase of$30 or more. Nine Boynton Beach
Bucks were redeemed. The survey they used for the promotion had 93 responses.
Fifteen percent of the respondents shopped there before and 83 had not. Eighty three
percent were residents and 17% were not. Examples of the posts they used to share
on social media were viewed along with custom posters. The promotion was shared
with City of Boynton Beach staff and to over 2,300 individuals on the CRA email
subscriber list. The Business Promotions team participated at the City's Egg
Stravaganza event and distributed copies of the Like a Local business guide and
vouchers for the Your CBD Store Boynton Beach Bucks offer. In April, staff promoted
Boynton Beach Bucks for Guaca Go, who wanted to expanded their hours. The deal
was $5 off a purchase of $12 or more between 5 PM and 8 PM. Fourteen Boynton
Beach Bucks were redeemed. The survey had 131 responses: 34% stated they ate
there before and 66% had not. Seventy eight percent were residents and 22% were
not. Examples of the social media posts were viewed.
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The CRA newsletter was distributed to those on the CRA email list and published on the
Boynton Beach Insider Blog. It had a story promoting Chair Grant's message and
articles about the public parking lots at 115 N Federal Highway and about the Purchase
and Development Agreement with the Boynton Beach Office Condo LLC. Ms. Coppin
reviewed the businesses featured in HitTheBiz and about dining, recreational, and
marine information, the transfer of the Women's Club to the City, and details about the
Social Media Outreach Program (SMOP), the Boynton Beach Bucks promotion, the
Affordable/Workforce Housing Grant programs, and the Neighborhood Signage and
installation/repair grant programs.
Staff published a blog of five business promotional events over the summer including
dates, times and location. Staff is finalizing some details about upcoming events that
will be released this weekend. Chair Grant asked if they will advertise with the Coastal
Star and learned staff does not advertise with them. Chair Grant recommended they do
so because the Coastal Star is a free publication in the area. There was consensus to
advertise in the Coastal Star.
B. Social Media Outreach Program 2nd Quarterly Report (January-March
2021) Renee Roberts had a presentation
Ms. Roberts explained there are 66 businesses registered and 98 registered in the
program since inception. Three new businesses were added this quarter and there
were 55 total business contacts. She explained the Boynton Beach Bucks and SMOP
goals. The SMOP is used to create Facebook ads and SMOP 1-on-1 Business
Assistance. Boynton Beach CRA social media has increased on both Facebook,
Twitter and Instagram. Ms. Roberts reviewed future CRA projects.
C. CRA Economic & Business Development Grant Program Update
Bonnie Nicklien, Grants and Project Manager, advised there are eight businesses left
in the grant process in various stages. There is not enough money to fund all of them,
but some of the projects are too early and when the new fiscal year starts, they can
apply then.
D. CRA District Lighting Improvement Project Update
Thuy Shutt, Assistant Director, reviewed a spreadsheet. The Board directed staff to
develop a list of lighting improvements in the CRA that could be implemented this fiscal
year. She clarified implementation could mean construction and/or design underway or
committed. Staff prioritized the projects and provided a preliminary cost estimate. They
will not know the actual costs until the project is bid. Sometimes quotes are given, but
some projects need to be designed. The first item was the Ocean Avenue Bridge East
between NE 1st Street and Federal Highway at a cost of$155K. She explained the
scope of work that needed to be done as contained in the meeting materials. Most of
the new lighting is rented from FPL as the City does not like to store light fixtures. They
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prefer FPL install them and the City pay for the cost. The next item was the East MLK
Jr. Corridor Streetscapes. These need to be done in conjunction with new projects so it
would be a comprehensive project that looks at amenities and existing nodes. Chair
Grant supported moving the Ocean Avenue Bridge priority up as the area under the
bridge could be enhanced with more lighting making it a safer space. Board Member
Katz noted the total cost of all the projects was $141 K over what the Board had
allocated. He asked if there was anything definite in the current budget they know they
would not spend that could fill in the gap to move forward with all the items. Mr. Simon
explained they have been identifying money for other items When they move into June
and July, the members can look at the roll over budget and identify other funds that
could be reallocated this fiscal year. Mr. Simon anticipated most of the project would
likely begin before October 1St, but others may not, which could be funded in next year's
budget if they cannot find the extra $141 K this year. Staff will bring updates to each
meeting. Board Member Katz asked what items will not be started this year. Ms. Shutt
explained Item 5 was in conjunction with a streetscape project. The Ocean Avenue
Bridge would take longer. Ms. Shutt noted the bridge has upper and lower components.
Attachment 2 had visuals of the corresponding projects. Board Member Katz had no
trouble trying to fund them all, but if not, prioritize what can be started as soon as
possible. It was suggested making a motion to approve and whatever funds are needed
in the next fiscal year, they allocate it, so they can move forward with the lighting
because it adds a lot of value in the CRA District. Ms. Shutt explained they would try to
make it work and they would bring it back to the Board.
Board Member Hay agreed with Board Member Katz's suggestion as long as it would
not jeopardize lighting on the agenda, and in particular, the Sara Sims project. Chair
Grant asked about lights at certain parks, as they are part of the City's CIP Plan and he
requested Mr. Simon provide him with the City's CIP, and the CRA cannot spend money
on anything in the City's CIP that is less than three-years out.
Ms. Shutt requested the Board give direction for staff to work with Legal counsel to
develop an ILA to channel money to the City for these projects.
Motion
Board Member Hay moved so moved. Board Member Katz seconded the motion. The
motion passed unanimously.
14. Public Hearing
15. Old Business
A. Project Update on Azur Equities, LLC, the selected proposer of the
RFP/RFQ for the Cottage District Infill Housing Redevelopment Project
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Mr. Simon advised they had two successful meetings with Franck Gotsman of Azure
and the team on April 22nd. They met with the City's Planning and Development Staff
on April 29 and Azure made some adjustments staff wanted them to explore. Azure is
excited to get started. The property will be re-platted into future lots and the project,
instead of being an infill housing project, will use a simple streamlined process. The
replat, subdividing and roadways are the first step, which will add another two or three
months to the regular site plan process, but it is necessary. They will have revisions and
a partner willing to work with the CRA. Staff will have the Purchase and Development
Agreement ready for the June meeting with key terms, and they will have revisions be
presented and become part of that Development Agreement. Chair Grant wants to
explore changes to the Comprehensive Plan that need to be made so the project is the
best it can be. He noted the townhome vehicles cannot back out of the garage onto the
road, and if the CRA can say they think the City should make certain changes to the
LDR's to get the best project for infill single-family homes, they could. It was noted the
Palm Beach County Housing Authority is auctioning its properties. Board Member Katz
had no objection inquiring with the City, it is something he thought could be worked on.
Vice Chair Penserga asked if the concern was the process would be so cumbersome
the project would become financially unfeasible. Chair Grant commented it was a
concern, as the CRA would have to spend funds for the developer to make it financially
feasible. Vice Chair Penserga asked what the plan to finance the project was, about the
contingency for financing so the project can be completed and what the process is in
verifying the items. He noted the bank was a foreign bank. Chair Grant thought they
should move forward with the design first, then the financing. They can set dates
regarding the financing and the CRA's recourse.
B. Discussion and Consideration of Lease Terms with C Life C Food, Inc. for
the CRA-owned Property located at 401-407 E. Boynton Beach Boulevard
REVISED
Mr. Simon brought this item back to the Board and reviewed Mr. Collins' Letter of Intent
was selected and they discussed the proposal. Attachment two contained the
requirements and staff developed a draft lease agreement, which was presented to Mr.
Collins in attachment three. Attachment four had questions and concerns. Mr. Collins
had met with the City and his architect. Staff was not present, but there were some
items Mr. Collins and his architect will have to address.
Mr. Collins noted item 2B regarding the 5% annual increase. The original intention was
to be as temporary as possible for the City and to work together so when a bigger
opportunity comes along, Mr. Collins could vacate the premises quickly. After brief
discussion, it was decided a 2% annual increase was appropriate
Mr. Collins explained the rent was a total rent plus sales taxes. The lease would be a
triple month lease which means he is responsible for the property taxes and insurance
on the building, which could be $2K a month. He was unsure the CRA pays taxes on
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the property. Mr. Simon explained with a commercial lease, the CRA is no longer
protected by the designation and the property is looked at as a commercial property and
the Property Appraiser assesses it accordingly. Discussion followed that Mr. Collins was
not renting all four properties. The taxes on the 401 property was $4,800 a year and
$2,784 for the lot between the buildings, which was about $632 a month in taxes. He
did not anticipate the terms of the lease would be so expensive they would increase the
value for the lease. Chair Grant recommended setting the amount at $500 a month. Mr.
Collins favored a flat rate amount. Chair Grant did not think the CRA would lose money
by renting the property. The point is to set the lease for at least the first year for a fixed
cost not variable. Mr. Simon explained now that they know the lease is not a triple-net
lease, the $500 is $132 short of the existing taxes. It was explained the difference
would come from the rent and the CRA would not profit $2,500 a month.
Board Member Katz had no problem with setting a fixed amount for one year, and a
percentage rate the following years. They do not know the property taxes for 2021. It
was noted the Property Appraiser is limited to increasing the assessed rate each year to
10% each year.
Attorney Rossmell repeated for the first year, the lease would not be a triple net lease,
just a capped rate normal lease, but beginning the second year, the lease would convert
to an ordinary triple net lease. That number would be added on top of the rent. Mr.
Collins asked if then moving forward, that number would be added on top of the rent
and learned it would. Mr. Collins advised he could work with that. Chair Grant
commented the amount will be spelled out what the monthly rent would be and be all
inclusive.
Mr. Simon indicated Mr. Collins was interested in discussing the grants available to
eligible commercial businesses, which includes half of the rent for the first 18 months of
a multi-year lease. It was not agreed to, not proposed, and Mr. Simon asked if they will
reduce the first years rent by half. Mr. Collins was ok waiving that for the first year.
The new offer did not include commercial grant rent reimbursement. Chair Grant asked
if they want to allow up to $50K of commercial grants to the building. Vice Chair
Penserga thought the purpose of the building was only to be a temporary home. He did
not think it was in the best interest of the CRA. Mr. Collins thought they may not need
the interior renovation grant because the building is solid cement. The only question is
the front glass. He was fine with that, but he liked the exterior paint and sign
assistance. Chair Grant explained they combined the exterior and interior grants. Mr.
Collins noted they will have to address the parking lot, which was about $150K Ms.
Shutt mentioned the parking lot is about $100K for just the paving and dealing with
existing conditions. Because of Mr. Collins' change in use, it resulted in everything
being reviewed differently and for safer ingress/egress out of a major arterial road. If
the property, except for the 401 property, was demolished, staff would explore a pop-up
business in the area and the property could be sodded, accommodate a food truck, or
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have an art show. Staff has not had the opportunity to discuss those uses with the City,
but the intent is to re-sod the property.
Mr. Collins explained the building is 2,062, square feet and by Code 11 parking spaces
are required. If the CRA wants to use that building in the future, they have to decide
how much they want to spend. The laundromat has a long-term lease for seven years.
The CRA, as a landlord, has to determine how to rent out the space with the parking
associated with it and determine the costs. They may have to wait for next year's
financing.
Mr. Collins pointed out that as a temporary tenant, there is very little chance he will
recoup the money they will have to invest in a parking lot in years one, two or three and
still be in the black. Mr. Simon explained the CRA Board did not issue an RFP or put up
a sign to rent the building. They received unsolicited interest for various potential uses,
some of what are the existing use which would not require some of the things that a
change of use, which is being proposed, requires. There are other factors in play.
Someone will have to build a parking lot and make many upgrades, but it was not what
the CRA proposed. Someone was interested in the building that turned into five people
wanting the property. The Board is not in a position to solicit someone and would
provide amenities. There were no presupposed circumstances or financial assistance
that he offered the public to take advantage of and he made no stipulation to anyone
that said the CRA would provide items.
Board Member Katz thought it raised concerns about changing the use. He agreed it
should not be the tenant's responsibility to bring the building up to Code and build a
parking lot. If the CRA plans to tear down the building in a year or two, he asked if it
was worth spending the money.
Board Member Hay asked about the parking and the cost for parking for the entire
complex. Chair Grant noted one use was for equipment rental which would not require
a change of use.
Mr. Collins heard at the planning meeting that when a business moves out and no
longer exists, the new codes are in place. Chair Grant commented the CRA after
spending $900K to purchase the property has to decide what the best use for the CRA
District is. They have to decide if they should sod it and land bank the property or
decide if it will be five years before a developer comes in to develop the entire block.
He thought it would be at least five years before property owners would decide to sell
and the CRA needs to decide this issue. Mr. Collins explained the exterior does not
need help, but the parking lot does. Landscaping requirements are also considered
exterior improvements. Someone should provide that information before the CRA
decides what to do.
Vice Chair Penserga thought the sticking point is the parking lot. Mr. Collins noted the
lot could have a food truck or other pop up events, but even if he used all the parking
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spaces on the three lots, parking would still not meet Code. By the time he puts
equipment in, taxes and insurance, and if they use the existing parking by the building
that will be torn down, the spaces are close, but it does not meet the Code. There are
about 11 spaces across the front of the property. Mr. Simon explained the decisions
for the Board are if the Board wants to turn it into a rental, what is involved and if so,
who is responsible for the improvements. Chair Grant asked what the Board was willing
to spend to move the project forward. He suggested because the Board selected an
applicant, that the Board request the applicant supply the cost to the CRA, including
ADA requirements, less his equipment costs, and then the Board decide.
Mr. Simon would not recommend entering into the lease agreement without this
information. The City will also need to approve it.
Mr. Collins explained the last item was to have the right of first refusal. If someone
made an offer to buy the three lots, he wanted the opportunity to match the offer. Chair
Grant had no problem with that if he is still a tenant. Chair Grant commented instead of
first refusal, the purchase price would be nothing less than the CRA's cost.
Board Member Katz thought the purpose of the property was to ensure assemblage.
He would not be in favor of any sort of lease or sale of the property because then the
Board would not have any ability to make sure it is part of an assemblage. Chair Grant
thought the tenant should have the ability to match someone else's offer to purchase
the three properties did not make sense because if the CRA offers the land as part of a
bigger development the Board did not want to give Mr. Collins the right of refusal of
nothing. Mr. Simon explained the issue would be publicly noticed and anyone can
make an offer. Chair Grant commented as a public entity, the Board cannot sell it
without giving Mr. Collins the option to buy it. The CRA would have to go through
another 30-day RFP/RFQ.
Attorney Rossmell summarized the discussion as follows:
The lease terms were on hold until the applicant provides an estimate of the cost to
bring the property up to Code. The CRA will analyze it and decide if it wants to move
forward with a lease discussion at a future meeting.
The Board also discussed other terms which were a 2% increase in rent, a flat fee of
$500 for the 2021 year's rent and in 2022, the lease would be a triple net lease.
Attorney Rossmell understood when the applicant comes back with costs, CRA staff
and Legal would present a lease tentatively revised based on the Board's consideration.
Mr. Collins requested the CRA provide an estimate of the insurance.
C. Discussion and Consideration of Terms for an RFP/RFQ for the CRA
Project Located at 115 N. Federal Highway
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Chair Grant understood the bullet points in the agenda were things the Board wanted to
include or not so they can finalize the RFP/RFQ. The bullet points in front of the
Commission were items to consider in order to finalize the RFP/RFQ draft for final
approval next month.
Jeff Burns, CEO Affiliated Development, reviewed the RFP/RFQ recommendations
and made some suggestions. They spent a lot of time talking with community residents
and businesses. He suggested, regarding housing, incorporating a mixed-income
component to the housing. He thought employees could benefit by living close to where
they work.
If the RFP incorporates adjacent properties, a developer can demonstrate they have or
can gain control of surrounding properties. If the plan calls for incorporating one of the
surrounding properties, there should be some consideration to incorporating existing
businesses into the new development
For the RFQ, Mr. Burns noted the document talks about being qualified and having
financing, he suggested providing proof of funds, both debt and equity and to
demonstrate they can build the project. It was important to have experience in other
similar public private partnership projects.
Vice Chair Penserga asked how to incorporate mixed-use housing. Mr. Burns
explained it was just incorporating set asides for different income levels. It does not
have to be defined in the RFP, but it should incorporate a mix of incomes. It is
documented as a restrictive covenant on the property that holds the set asides and they
are normally from 80% to 120% of AMI. They enter into an agreement with the CRA to
keep X percentages of the units as set asides. It could be 25% of the units as set
asides.
Kim Kelly, owner of Hurricane Alley, 529 E. Ocean Avenue, understood incorporating
businesses. They have to change for the times. She thought what Mr. Burns proposed
would be helpful and she also supported the mixed-use housing. If done correctly, it
sounded like it was something they could move forward with.
Board Member Katz agreed with Mr. Burns' comments and financing. In the past, plans
were shown and then financing was lost. He did not know how to strengthen the
requirement, but he supported that what is shown is legitimately backed. He liked the
idea of having mixed income set asides. He like the idea of proof of site control for
adjacent properties. He did not like if someone was not putting any investment in the
project.
Chair Grant spoke in regards to how to keep the financing, he thought if financing is not
received by a certain date, it was not just a loan on the property, it was also getting a
permit. They can include it in the RFP/RFQ and negotiate a timeline with what the
developer thinks is possible. He noted with 500 Ocean, they asked for extensions,
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which the CRA Board granted for the utility work for the project. As for adjacent
properties, the applicant has options to purchase similar to what the Board experienced
with the Cottage District and it was something they would consider. He thought the City
does not have Class A office space. 500 Ocean had Class A office space and one
business took all 6,600 square feet of it. There were a few retail store fronts , and then
the First Financial Plaza is office condo and the CRA is grossly underrepresented in
office space. The City is in the middle of West Palm Beach/Palm Beach Gardens and
Miami, and could offer corporate office space where people would be active during the
day with coming in enter, not just people going out during rush hour. He wanted to add
TIF for a CBA. He thought the set asides for properties lower than market values was a
benefit, they also want to teach the next generation how to get experience. He wanted
incorporation of a multi-modal design as this area was a Transit Oriented District (TOD.)
He wanted a mass-transit option. The reason why he wanted to add TIF was for the
community benefits. When they discussed mixed-income, the developer does not have
to be an affordable housing developer, but if they have experience and can help
subsidize the funds coming through with the American Rescue Plan, he would support
it. He noted with Ocean Breeze East and the MLK Jr Corridor, funding from the Florida
Housing Finance Corporation was the reason for the development and the CRA did not
have to spend millions to obtain affordable housing.
Board Member Hay wanted to see a mix of restaurants and administrative office space
because he was aware office space is getting tight and they have an opportunity to
generate jobs, while at the same time, he supported more walking space in the
downtown area, in terms of activity spaces. Hurricane Alley's is always crowded and it
would be nice to have another eatery down the street for the public. He emphasized
input from adjacent property owners would be helpful and he agreed the CRA has one
shot at this. The development will be around for a long time and they need to get it
right.
Chair Grant went to the Butcher and the Bar and used 500 Ocean's garage. He was
glad they have that option and he encouraged all to visit the new restaurants across the
street from Hurricane Alley.
Board Member Romelus agreed with Board Member Katz's and Chair Grant's
comments. It is an exciting project and she was glad they took the time to nit-pick each
aspect. 500 Ocean was the start of the downtown and it was doing well. She saw
people sitting in the courtyard by Pio Pio and it was a success. Office space is another
success, but she thought the CRA should allow office space to be flex space if not taken
up by one or multiple large companies to be a co-working space for multiple
entrepreneurs and business owners. The space should be flexible and she was glad all
are on the same page.
Vice Chair Penserga thought the bullet points are the right direction and he will pay
special attention to financing and protections for the CRA and City.
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Attorney Rossmell explained the Board can give consensus to give staff direction to
move forward.
Board Member Katz commented, in regard to building wealth in the community, and
recalling a proposal from the community to infuse more trade for residents, he would be
in favor of using TIF to cover the increased costs to use local union trades. If they
incentivize them, they are guaranteed to have local workers. The money stays in the
community and they would have however long for the property to be completed. The
union trade apprentice programs are free as long as long as the individual puts in the
work and learn in earnest and they are paid an honest wage. When done, they will do
well and earn more than he will as a teacher. After the building is constructed, there will
be a hub of trades available in the community. Vice Chair Penserga supported the
proposal.
Chair Grant noted TIF funding was not a requirement and asked if the Board wanted the
applicants to have this as part of their proposal, or have them say they will consider it as
part of the proposal. Board Member Katz asked if this pertained to the use of union
labor or apprenticeships. Chair Grant asked if the Board wanted it to be specific to
union labor, trades, apprenticeship or non-profits that provide career skills. Board
Member Katz had no problem without defining a dollar amount saying the land and TIF
funds are on the table. He would not object to the consideration of incorporating the
use of local trades that would allow for apprenticeship opportunities during the time of
construction. Chair Grant summarized it is a consideration of using local trades people,
but have apprenticeship programs, which could be different because some local
contractors do not have apprenticeship programs, but some in the area do. It is
something this Board is highly considering, when they make their decision, based not
only on the local organizations the applicant has, but the contract they sign with them to
include them in the Purchase and Sale Agreement because they do not want to see the
applicant say he has local contractors and then after the Purchase and Sale Agreement
uses someone else. Board Member Katz agreed. He wanted to put in the contract the
local trade unions and their apprenticeship programs because it is a guarantee if you
use one you get the other, whereas local contractors who do not have apprenticeship
programs may say they will bring on inexperienced people and train them, but local
unions are tried and true with apprenticeship. He would put in there with regard to the
use of local union trade associations with their apprenticeship programs being a
component. Board Member Hay and Chair Grant agreed. Chair Grant was aware
developers will say there is a cost associated with it, but the CRA can say they are fine
with it and they will subsidize the added cost. The financing package will include the
funds either in the budget or by using TIF. They are providing job training the next
generation and the City is having trouble finding these skills. Board Member Romelus
supported giving preference to local Boynton Beach residents.
There was agreement they will have incorporation of trade unions as part of the
application and consideration of local organizations as well. The aspect the Board will
determine is if the applicant will say they have one electrical trade union position and
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Community Redevelopment Advisory Board
Boynton Beach, Florida May 11, 2021
another may say they have it with other trade unions. He hoped the union would be
willing to work with multiple applicants because they know they will be part of the
selected project.
D. Consideration of Approval of Boynton Village, LLC a/k/a The Preserve's
Performance Audit for Year Ending December 31, 2020 for Compliance with
the Direct Incentive Funding Agreement
Vicki Hill, Finance Director, announced the developer submitted a request for payment
for their compliance audit for the 2020 tax year and they are in compliance. If approved,
the CRA will issue year six payment for Fiscal Year 20/21 for $26,474. Under the terms
of the DIFA and including the payment for year six, the CRA will have provided
$305,467 in property tax increment revenue and during the same time, the CRA
retained $556,959 in TERFA. Staff recommended approval for $26,474. The
development has 100 rentals and five homes so there are 105 units. When they put
items into fee simple, if there is no sort of restrictive language when building single-
family homes or condos, an investor may take over, but the CRA wants to build wealth
in the community through home ownership and equity.
Motion
Vice Chair Penserga moved to approve. Board Member Hay seconded the motion. The
motion passed unanimously.
E. Consideration of an Interlocal Agreement with the City of Boynton Beach for
the Design Costs Associated with the Historic Woman's Club of Boynton
Beach located at 1010 S. Federal Highway
Ms. Shutt presented the item. The prior Interlocal Agreement was for construction costs
which was to start in FY2022. This item will allow the Board to use funds to start this
year for 20/21 so the City can procure services with needed items such as ADA
bathrooms, a pedestrian crossing across US 1 between the Senior Center and the
Woman's Club and window repairs and doors. Attachment Five is the prior approval
and Attachment Three is a proposed design service ILA.
Vice Chair Penserga noted they agreed to up to $250K for three years, and now there is
another request for another $87K. He asked why this cost was not included in the prior
request. It was explained the prior ILA envisioned the money to be budgeted for next
year so staff would not be able to use this year's money towards that. The $250K was
the anticipated cost for the construction of the project. City staff was working with CRA
staff and the work could be done in-house. After further evaluation, the work could not
be done in house. City staff feels they will need experts for the needed improvements
and the design services costs be under another ILA. It would be cleaner that way and
would not combine two fiscal years.
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Meeting Minutes
Community Redevelopment Advisory Board
Boynton Beach, Florida May 11, 2021
Motion
Vice Chair Penserga moved to approve. Board Member Hay seconded the motion. The
motion passed unanimously.
F. Consideration of an Interlocal Agreement with the City of Boynton Beach for
Improvements to the Sara Sims Park Amphitheater
Mr. Simon explained the Board had previously approved an ILA with the City to provide
funding for elements to improve the Park. Once they approved the ILA, it went through
the City's process and resulted in a delay for approval, City staff was able to get a
clearer architectural design that addressed ADA and other required components. This
was a request from the City to increase the funding from $100K for a total of $150K for
improvements that were not envisioned. A visual of the amphitheater walls, ADA ramp
and other electrical elements was viewed. It was noted the stage will be 36 inches off
the ground.
Staff identified $100K in funding. They have $238K in the Woman's Club improvement
fund they did not use, and can take $100K from there and move it over.
Motion
Vice Chair Penserga moved to rescind the first ILA. Board Member Hay seconded the
motion. The motion passed unanimously.
Motion
Vice Chair Penserga moved to approve the second ILA with the City not to exceed
$150K. Board Member Romelus seconded the motion. The motion passed
unanimously.
16. New Business
17. Future Agenda Items
A. Discussion and Consideration of a Purchase and Development Agreement
between the CRA and Habitat for Humanity of South Palm Beach County,
Inc. for the CRA Owned Property located at 545 NW 11th Avenue
B. Consideration of Award and Contract for Responses to the Invitation to Bid
to Perform Landscape Maintenance Services on Properties Owned by the
CRA
C. Consideration of Award and Contract for Responses for the Management of
the Boynton Harbor Marina
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Meeting Minutes
Community Redevelopment Advisory Board
Boynton Beach, Florida May 11, 2021
D. Approval of the FY 2021 - 2023 Boynton Harbor Marina Dockage Lease
Agreement
E. MLK Jr. Boulevard Corridor Commercial Redevelopment and Affordable
Multi-Family Rental Apartment Project Update
F. Ocean Breeze East Affordable Multi-Family Rental Apartment Project
Update
18. Adjournment
Mr. Karjalainen explained how the public could access the video.
There being no further business, Chair Grant adjourned the meeting at 8:07 p.m.
v
Catherine Cherry
Minutes Specialist
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