Minutes 11-16-21 Minutes of the City Commission Meeting
Held Online Via the GoToWebinar Platform and
In-Person at the City Hall Commission Chambers
100 East Ocean Avenue, Boynton Beach, Florida
On Tuesday, November 16, 2021, at 5:30 P.M.
Present:
Mayor Steven B. Grant Lori LaVerriere, City Manager
Vice Mayor Woodrow L. Hay James Cherof, City Attorney
Commissioner Justin Katz Crystal Gibson, City Clerk
Commissioner Christina L. Romelus
Commissioner Ty Penserga
1. Openings
A. Call to Order - Mayor Steven B. Grant
Mayor Grant called the meeting to order at 5:33 p.m.
Roll Call
City Clerk Crystal Gibson called the roll. A quorum was present.
Invocation by Rev. Jack Copas, Boynton Beach Congregational United
Church.
Rev. Jack Copas was not in attendance. Vice Mayor Hay gave the invocation in his
absence.
Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag led by Vice Mayor Hay
Vice Mayor Hay led the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.
Agenda Approval:
1. Additions, Deletions, Corrections
Commissioner Penserga requested an update on the MLK project.
Mayor Grant stated the discussion on the MLK project will be added to Old Business Item
10A to be discussed after Consent Agenda.
Mayor Grant noted that there were items missing from Future Agenda:
o Discussion on the impact fee lawsuit.
o Discussion on the JKM lawsuit.
o Discussion on creating a Citizens Committee Review Board.
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All items should be added to Future Agenda as to be determined.
2. Adoption
Motion
Commissioner Penserga moved to approve the agenda as amended. Commissioner Katz
second the motion. The motion passed unanimously.
2. Other
A. Informational items by the Members of the City Commission.
Commissioner Katz stated that he had no disclosures.
Commissioner Romelus disclosed that she spoke with Bradley Miller regarding the item on the
agenda. She wished everyone a Happy Thanksgiving.
Commissioner Penserga disclosed that he spoke with Elizabeth Roque from Centennial.
Vice Mayor Hay disclosed that he spoke with Elizabeth Roque from Centennial. He attended
the Caregivers Luncheon at Benvenuto's. He also attended the 2021 Veterans Build. On
Thursday, he attended the Feeding South Florida food distribution event. He attended the
Veteran's Day Celebration. On November 13th, he attended the free Unity Barbeque at the
House of Kingdom Worship presented by the Trinity Counseling Center of Florida. He also
attended the ribbon cutting of 500 Café. He wished everyone a Happy Thanksgiving.
Mayor Grant disclosed that on November 3rd, he attended an event with the Independent
Electrical Contractors. On November 4th, he toured the Women's Club and presented a
proclamation for Diwali. On November 9th, he attended the Caregivers Luncheon presented by
A Healthier Boynton Beach. On November 10th, he attended a walking session in the Galaxy
Scrub. That evening he attended the FAU Entrepreneur's Open House. On November 11th, he
attended a ceremony at the Bluestone Memorial marker on Federal Highway. On November
12th, he attended a golf tournament for Habitat for Humanity. He spoke with representatives of
JKM. On November 16th, he spoke with the City Manager of Rauma, Finland. That afternoon
he attended the Literacy Luncheon presented by the Literacy Coalition. He spoke with
Elizabeth Roque regarding affordable housing.
3. Announcements, Community and Special Events and Presentations
A. Announcement by Kacy Young, Recreation & Parks Director, regarding
Oceanfront Bark scheduled for November 20, 2021, from 9am-12pm at
Oceanfront Park beach.
Kacy Young, Recreation & Parks Director, announced that Oceanfront Bark will be
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on November 20, 2021 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Oceanfront Park, 6415 North Ocean
Boulevard. He invited all licensed, well behaved dogs and their owners to attend the
event. This is the first of four events being held on the third Saturday of each month.
The last event is scheduled for February 19th. For more information contact
Recreation and Parks department at 561-742-6221 or visit the website at
www.boynton-beach.orq/recreation. All parking fees will be waived during the event.
B. Announcement by Kacy Young, Recreation & Parks Department Director,
regarding the Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day Ceremony scheduled on
Tuesday, December 7, 2021 , at Tom Kaiser, USN Boynton Beach Veterans
Memorial Park starting at 11 am.
Mr. Young announced the Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day Ceremony will be on Tuesday,
December 7, 2021, starting at 11 a.m. at Tom Kaiser, USN Boynton Beach Veterans
Memorial Park located at 411 North Federal Highway. The event is in memory of Pearl Harbor
Day and all WWII veterans will be honored. The event will also include a reenactment of
Franklin D. Roosevelt's Day of Infamy speech presented by a world-renowned author and a
Boynton Beach Resident, Delmas P. Woods, Jr. For more information, contact the Recreation
and Parks Department at 561-742-6650 or visit the website www.boynton-
beach.org/recreation.
C. Announcement by Eleanor Krusell, Director, Marketing & Events,
regarding "Holidays in Boynton."
Eleanor Krusell, Director, Marketing & Events, announced "Holidays in Boynton." In addition
to the lighting of the historic Kapok and Banyan Trees in Town Square, the City of Boynton
Beach is going back to tradition with a 30-foot Holiday Tree that will be placed in Centennial
Park. Embracing each side of the tree there will be a Menorah and Kinara display. The tree
lighting ceremony will be on Friday, December 3rd, at 5 p.m. Local choirs and bands will
perform and food vendors will be available. There will be a variety of children's activities. The
Holiday Parade will march down Federal Highway on Saturday, December 4th, beginning at 4
p.m. To be entered into the parade, the event application is available online at www.boynton-
beach.orq/parade, by emailing events(a�bbfl.us, or by calling 561-742-6034. All applications
must be submitted by November 19th. December's Friday Flick will be held on Friday
December 17th starting at 5 p.m. and will feature "The Grinch." Children's activities will be
available. The public is encouraged to bring chairs and blankets. For more information, these
events can be found at www.holidaysinboynton.com.
D. Adam Temple, Development Director will introduce our new Community
Standards Director, Candice Stone.
Adam Temple, Development Director, introduced Candice Stone as the new
Community Standards Director.
Candice Stone, Community Standards Director, stated that she is grateful for the opportunity
to work with the City, a great team and the great residents of Boynton Beach. She is looking
forward to her journey here.
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Vice Mayor Hay welcomed Ms. Stone. He stated that she is directing one of the better
departments and they are a great team.
Commissioner Romelus stated that the Community Standards Department needed a lot of
work when she first became a Commissioner. She has seen improvements and changes over
the years under Mr. Temple's tenure. She requested that this continued under Ms. Stone's
tenure. Our City is very diverse. Making sure that residents are not penalized for potential
language barriers or communication barriers is one of the things that she always makes sure
that she is advocating for here in the City. As the Community Standards Director, she will
have to be vigilant about that. Not to fine or penalize, but to understand what is the
miscommunication with the resident. What can be done better? How can we make sure that
our standards are met and done in a way where it is inviting and welcoming?
Ms. Stone stated that she does have the same mindset as Mr. Temple. Education and
compassion are number one for her. Often the issue is that people do not know what the
ordinances are.
E. Announce the Boynton Beach Police Department's 30x30 Pledge and
watch a video of WPTV's news coverage of the Department's hiring
initiative.
Video of WPTV news coverage on Boynton Beach Police Department's 30x30 was shown.
Mayor Grant noted that six new officers were sworn in on Monday. He would like the award
ceremony to be open to the public again.
Commissioner Romelus stated that having women in such leadership in law enforcement and
public service is not tangible. From the perspective of a woman, of a mom, of a wife, also
now from the wife of a first responder, it is important to have that point of view and so she is
proud of our department for making this commitment and for making this pledge. She thanked
the Chief and said from the very beginning, he made a pledge to the community that he was
going to change and improve our Boynton Beach Police Department. Every year that he has
been here, she continues to see his efforts. Now with this pledge, it is amazing. She
commended him for his leadership and for taking on this role.
F. Presentation of the City's Community Rating System (CRS) improvement
from a CRS Class 6 toa CRS Class 5 effective April 1, 2022.
Angela Prymas, Utilities Senior Engineer, gave a presentation on Community Rating System
improvement from a CRS Class 6 to a Class 5 effective April 1, 2022.
Commissioner Katz thanked Ms. Prymas for her presentation. The citizens may not realize
that this a reduction in cost for living in the City.
Mayor Grant inquired about the history of the City's Community Rating System.
Ms. Prymas stated that when she started with the City, the CRS was at a seven and the rating
has continued to improve to a six and now a five.
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G. Recognize the partnership between the City and Sea Turtle Adventures
iCARE and Jaquelyn Kingston, Founder and Executive Director.
Mr. Young gave a presentation on Sea Turtle Adventures iCare. Sea Turtle Adventures
iCare hosted 60 cleanups at several City parks collecting a total of 2,738 pounds of trash.
He thanked Mrs. Kingston and her staff.
Jaquelyn Kingston, Founder and Executive Director, on behalf of Sea Turtle
Adventures thanked the City for opportunity to collaborate with the City to clean the
natural areas over the last 12 months. This project has been a huge success. Out
of the 108 participants 75 of them were adults with special needs. The top ten
members who completed the most cleanup over the year with an individual who
attended 42 of the 60 cleanups are present tonight and would like to take a picture.
H. Proclamation recognizing November 16, 2021 as World Day of
Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims. Alyssa Frank, TPA Pedestrian &
Bicycle Coordinator, will accept the proclamation.
Carol Baxter, stated that she hopes that we will have safe roads for pedestrians and
bicyclists so that families do not have to celebrate Thanksgiving or Christmas without their
loved ones like she does every year. She hopes that more is done to stop pedestrians from
being killed, even though Tim was walking across a crosswalk on Seacrest Boulevard when
he was hit by a car. He was hit so hard, that his boot traveled across all lanes and landed in
a backyard. She hopes that none of us ever have to experience what it is like to get the call
that your loved one has been hit. She is thankful to all the police officers and EMTs that came
out there to help with Timmy. It was a sad thing to do. She hopes that more money is given
to programs to prevent bicyclists and pedestrians from being injured or killed on the street.
Alyssa Frank, TPA Pedestrian & Bicycle Coordinator stated 186 lives were lost on Palm
Beach County roadways. We have a duty to make our transportation system as safe as
possible for everyone. She looks forward to working with the City and reaching Vision
Zero in Palm Beach County.
I. Proclamation recognizing December 1 , 2021 as Impaired Driving
Awareness Day. The proclamation will be accepted by Tracy Roloff,
Executive Director of MADD, Carrie Gale, DUI Project Coordinator at PBC
Victim Services, and DUI Officer Dennis Castro.
Dennis Castro, DUI Officer, thanked the City for their support.
J. Proclamation recognizing December 1, 2021 as World AIDS Day. Keturah
Joseph, Faith Based CDC, will accept the Proclamation.
Gloria Goldstein, Project Director for Boynton Beach CDC, accepted the
proclamation. She stated that Boynton Beach CDC has a current program called
"Where My Sisters At?". The program is to specific to African American Women and
have educated 107 women over a six-month period. Ms. Goldstein thanked Mayor
Grant for being part of the Saving Sisters' Lives event.
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Mayor Grant stated it was his pleasure and thanked Ms. Goldstein for all of the work she does
within the community.
Vice Mayor Hay noted that Ms. Goldstein also an active member of the Mental Health
Committee of Boynton Beach. She is doing an outstanding job in that area.
4. Public Audience
Individual Speakers Will Be Limited To 3 Minute Presentations (at the discretion of the
Chair,this 3 minute allowance may need to be adjusted depending on the level of
business comingbefore the City Commission)
Barbara Ready, 34001 Baez Bay, asked the City to install sidewalks at the Boynton Beach Little League
Field. She would like a walkway going out to each of the four fields. She noted that the bathrooms are
not ADA compliant.
Vice Mayor Hay thanked Ms. Ready for bringing this to the Commission. The City will do what it can to
correct those issues.
Mayor Grant asked for an update on the Capital Improvement Plan.
City Manager LaVerriere stated that the City does have an ADA plan to address all of the City facilities,
that will take years to complete. She will get an update to the Commission.
Commissioner Katz commented that a private organization had come to the City and wanted to fund
enhancements to that facility. He would like an update on that.
Shelia Gaines, 2500 Quantum Lakes Drive, Trinity Counseling Centers, announced that on November
13th, Trinity Counseling Centers of Florida Incorporated, partnered with Community Partners to host a
Community Barbecue and a Narcan distribution, located at Boynton Beach House of Kingdom Worship.
Trinity Counseling Centers was able to take over 200 people and provide 238 doses of Narcan to the
community of Boynton. With the help of T. Leroy Jefferson Medical Society and Premier Medical Center
of Boynton Beach, we were able to provide education on how to administer and store Narcan properly.
Special thanks to Officer Diehl, Officer Shred, and Officer Rivera, who drove the unmarked vans around
Boynton Beach, along with Pastor Ray Whitely, and Kevin Joy of Harm Reduction Center to pick up our
homeless population for the event. Unfortunately, the homeless population feels that we were
attempting to detain them and would not get into the van to attend the community barbecue. The pivotal
point was the attendance of the Boynton Beach community. Every culture and every group were in
attendance. We witnessed an audience of Black, Asian, White, Hispanic, LGBTQ, Government, Church,
children, and the elderly all in the same space for this amazing cause. Trinity Counseling Centers'
vision is to build a community by supporting and cultivating healthy mental health. We look forward to
working with the Police Department and the City of Boynton Beach for more community events such as
our past Community Barbecue and Narcan distribution. Trinity Counseling Centers and dedicated
partners will dedicate our time to go into the Glades, Riviera Beach, and Lake Worth. In 2022, we aim
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to capture South Florida in its entirety. At Trinity Counseling Centers, mental health matters. Thank you.
Mayor Grant requested more information about Trinity Counseling Centers.
Ms. Gaines replied that Trinity Counseling Centers is on Facebook and can be reached at 561-660-
0237 or by email at earfullattcc(a gmail.com.
Vice Mayor Hay stated he attended the Community Barbeque it was a job well done. Representatives
did an outstanding job talking with the public. More people should be educated on how to administer
Narcan.
Ms. Gaines stated that they are going to corner stores of the community because of the need for Narcan.
Store staff will be educated and trained on how to administer Narcan.
Ernest Mignoli, 710 NE 7th Street, stated that the building where he lives has had problems for years.
He claimed that the City told him that there is nothing that can be done, he has to go to the County. He
stated that he received a telephone call from the Mayor's Office of Boca Raton who told him that they
are going to pass an ordinance to inspect buildings. He claims that the City told him that it cannot be
done and Boca Raton was wrong. He stated that he is trying to find legal counsel, but everyone is afraid
of Boynton. He needs a lawyer. He does not want money, he just wants the City to be held accountable.
Gail Mootz, Project Supervisor-Public Works, thanked the City for the time and apologized for the
event from two weeks ago. She explained she was a bit embarrassed and was at loss for
words. An interesting thing she has learned about a few of her co-workers is they are a bunch
of sneaky Petes. She was asked to attend the meeting two weeks ago about a project that she
was not involved in. She went into overdrive trying to figure out why does she have to be here.
She attended the meeting with her mind still in curiosity mode. Mayor Grant changed gears
and moved an agenda item off the list: Tim Howard, Excellence in Public Service Award. She
thought, "Who is going to get this award? It so awesome that I get to be here." Mayor Grant
read the nomination speech. She was getting excited for this year's recipient and what an
honor it will be for them. Then she heard her name and thought, "What, are you kidding me?
Did he actually say Gail Mootz?" Yes, he did. All she could think was wow. She was chosen
to receive an award where she is associated with a great man, Tim Howard. She stood there
looking at the beautiful piece of glass and the inscription totally silent and lost for words, which
is very unusual for her. Thank goodness for the City Manager. She was able to have the
moment last a little longer and talk about the dream she had of Tim that very morning. She
thanked Ms. LaVerriere and all she could say was thank you to everyone: Embarrassing. She
now has the opportunity to fix that. She thanked all who voted for her. She said that eight
years ago, in fact Thanksgiving will be her anniversary, another blessing to be thankful for on
that day, she started a new chapter in her life. She was hired by the City of Boynton Beach.
When she introduces herself to others here at the City or at meetings, it is as "My name is Gail
Mootz. I work for the Public Works-Facilities Department. My title is Whatever It Takes, Get
'er Done!" She recognized her parents and all those she has crossed paths with in her life's
journey and her wife of 25 years. The characteristics that are highlighted in being nominated
for this award have been instilled in her since childhood and a learned behavior that makes
her who she is. Old Mr. Webster could never define nor could she ever express how
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appreciative she is to receive such an award, not only being the first recipient or for who and
what it represents, but just the simple fact they chose her. She said thank you. She is so
blessed to come to a job every day that she loves, and to work with so many great people. Tim
Howard, what a guy. He was a man of integrity, he was reliable, loyal, dependable, hard-
working, understanding, creative, organized, and the list can go on and on. These are only a
few of the ways she could describe him. She appreciated Mr. Howard for a lot of reasons: his
professionalism, knowledge, or just to sit in his office for a few minutes to check in, and
especially his willingness to answer, always answer her questions. Along with the beautiful
glass award, she received a check and she plans to pay it forward. She has met with the Forest
and Grounds Department and a Queen's Crepe Myrtle will be planted along with installing a
bench with a plaque dedicating both to Tim Howard.
Commissioner Romelus remarked that when we are asked our title, we do not give titles. We ask, "How
can I help you?". She thanked Ms. Mootz for being and exemplary example of that. You are a pure
living breathing example of what it means to be a public servant and does the job because it needs to
be done. You do not look for glory. You coming back two weeks later to give this speech emphasizes
so much more why you were deserving of this award. Congratulations!
Dave Beasley, 190 South Boulevard, stated he is back again about the same thing. After the
last meeting he really hoped that the City would have a workshop with contractors and try to
work out some of the problems. He has to take the time to address comments that should not
exist. He would like to work this out.
Mayor Grant stated that he appreciated that Mr. Beasley coming to the meeting and
addressing the issue. He did note that the City did have a few workshops.
Mr. Beasley acknowledged that he did receive an email about a workshop but it was for the
E-permit Filing System. He was not talking about the E-permit Filing System. He believes
that if four or five contractors could sit down with the Building Department and tell them the
problems they are having, it would be beneficial for everybody.
City Manager LaVerriere stated we would be happy to do that. We do have a schedule of
different outreach topics. If Mr. Beasley would like to set up a meeting with Mr. Temple and
staff, we need that input.
Jackie Carrigan, 2620 NE 3rd Court, stated that the new safety measures installed at Village
Royale have been absolutely wonderful. She is sure it will help save lives.
Ray Whitely, 223 NE 12th Avenue, stated that an amazing event happened yesterday and he
is reading this on behalf of Pastor Richard Dames and the Boynton Beach Coalition of Clergy.
Boynton Beach Coalition of Clergy with Faith in Florida exists to build a powerful network of
congregations that will address the systemic, racial, and economic issues that cause poverty
within our families. We believe that our faith calls us to unite our communities, to speak with
one voice, and constructively engage the decision-makers and institutions to address
longstanding issues that put pressure on our families. It is, through our model as clergy, we
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have come to understand that Boynton Beach is experiencing tremendous economic growth,
primarily because of the great work of David Scott, our Economic Director, and the CRA. This
is something everyone wants. What concerned the clergy is that the development of Boynton
was not being guided through an equity lens. The cliché, a rising tide lifts all boats is not true
if your boat got holes in it. And what if you don't have a boat period? When development is not
conducted through an equity lens, it places the residents of the Heart of Boynton at risk for
displacement. He stated for the record when he says Heart of Boynton, he is talking about the
entire historic black community of Boynton. He said you can begin to understand how excited
the clergy became once we became aware that the City is the lead in the effort to create an
equity initiative. What excites us most is how you chose to develop this initiative. The broad
base you have included all groups that face inequalities, capturing data so that the
recommendation is not based on emotion. Getting feedback from multiple stakeholder groups,
hosting town hall meetings. And finally, you will take those findings and provide an equity
blueprint for key stakeholders to follow. This is spot on. With that said, none of us needed this
study to know the following as it relates to the Heart of Boynton. One, the solutions are bigger
than the City government. Two, the Heart of Boynton will have the highest concentration of
inequity findings because of historic Jim Crow segregation policies. We are fortunate to have
leaders from faith, civic, social services, health, and labor organizations. We are already
meeting and learning how we can work in a collaborative and not a competitive manner. We
are looking to ensure that the residents of the Heart of Boynton will become resilient to the
negative consequences of gentrification. We want to ensure that the Heart of Boynton
develops without displacement. We know nobody is commonly going to hear me now.
Commissioner Romelus encouraged Mr. Whitely to finish his statement at the appropriate
agenda item.
5. Administrative
A. Appointment of eligible members of the community to serve in vacant
positions on City advisoryboards.
Motion
Commissioner Katz nominated Kerry Clinton as a member to the Affordable Housing
Advisory Committee. Commissioner Romelus seconded the motion. The motion passed
unanimously.
Motion
Commissioner Romelus nominated Michael Corbit as a member to the Affordable Housing
Advisory Committee. Commissioner Penserga seconded the motion. The motion passed
unanimously.
Commissioner Romelus commented that the Affordable Housing Committee met for the first
time. During that meeting, the Chair and Vice Chair were picked. The board consists of
regular citizens and people who care about affordable housing. We plan on doing good work
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and bringing good recommendations back to the Commission.
B. Authorize members of the City Commission to travel to Tallahassee, FL to
attend Palm BeachCounty Days on January 11-12, 2022.
Motion
Commissioner Katz moved to approve the authorization for members of the City Commission
to travel to Tallahassee, Florida for Palm Beach County Days. Commissioner Penserga
seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.
Mayor Grant requested that a dollar amount be set for travel to Tallahassee, because the
Florida League of Cities meets a month later.
Commissioner Katz stated that he will only be attending Palm Beach County Days.
Vice Mayor Hay stated that he will be attending Palm Beach County Days and would like to
know what is left in the travel budget before he decides to go to Florida League of Cities.
Commissioner Romelus commented that she will also be attending Palm Beach County Days
and she is okay with the Mayor attending Florida League of Cities.
C. Ratify the selection of Affordable Housing Advisory Committee Chair
Keturah Joseph and Vice-Chair Kevin Fischer.
Motion
Commissioner Penserga moved to ratify the selection of Affordable Housing Committee
Chair Keturah Joseph and Vice-Chair Kevin Fischer. Commissioner Penserga seconded
the motion. The motion passed unanimously.
6. Consent Agenda
Matters in this section of the Agenda are proposed and recommended by the City Manager
for "Consent Agenda" approval of the action indicated in each item, with all of the
accompanyingmaterial to become a part of the Public Record and subject to staff comments
A. Proposed Resolution No. R21-151 -Approve and authorize Mayor to sign the
CommunityDevelopment Block Grant Mitigation Program (CDBG-MIT)
Subrecipient Agreement with the State of Florida Department of
Economic Opportunity (DEO) for Boynton Beach Fire Rescue Station No.
2 - Hardening Grant in the amount of $571 ,611 .00 for project planning,
design, administration and construction.
B. Proposed Resolution No. R21-152 - Authorize the Mayor to sign all documents
associated with the acceptance and grant agreement for the Edward Byrne
Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) for $40,482 subject to the approval
of the City Attorney.
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C. Proposed Resolution No. R21-153 - Authorize the Mayor and Police Chief to
sign all documents associated with the acceptance and grant agreement
for the U.S. Department of Justice, Community Oriented Policing
Services (COPS) Office 2021 Community Policing Development (CPD)
De-Escalation Training grant subject to the approval of the City Attorney.
D. Proposed Resolution No. R21-154 - Authorize the City Manager to sign an
Application for Federal Assistance to the Federal Emergency Management
Agency for the Fiscal Year 2021 Building Resilient Infrastructure and
Communities program for a total project of $215,250.00 including a 25%
City cost share of $53,812.50.
E. Proposed Resolution No. R21-155 - Approve and ratify reopened and new
Articles of SEIU Blue and White Collar Collective Bargaining Agreements.
Mayor Grant pulled item 6E.
Mayor Grant commented he would like to see future raises more equitable, therefore the
people who make the least do not get the least.
Motion
Commissioner Romelus moved to approve Proposed Resolution No. R21-155. Commissioner
Penserga seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.
F. Proposed Resolution No. 21-156 - Approve and authorize the Mayor to sign
a new Lease Agreement between the City of Boynton Beach and Lutheran
Services Florida, Inc. for property located at 909 NE 3rd Street.
Proposed Resolution No. 21-157 - Approve and authorize the Mayor to sign a
Purchase and Sale Agreement between the City of Boynton Beach and
Lutheran Services Florida, Inc. for vacant lots located at NE 9th Avenue and
NE 3rd Street.
Mayor Grant pulled item 6F.
Mayor Grant pointed out that the special warranty deed is not included in the back up
documentation. He spoke with the City Manager and the City Attorney regarding deed
restrictions. The City does have the option to repurchase the property if Lutheran Services
does obtain Certificate of Occupancy. The city loses all rights to the property. The two different
types of deed restrictions are a fee simple determinable and a fee simple condition
subsequent. He asked the City Attorney to explain the difference between the deed
restrictions.
City Attorney Cherof stated that the basic differences are in simple determinable it is an
automatic revert of the property to the grantor of the property, that would be the City. On the
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occasion of whatever the stated event is, with respect to a condition subsequent, there is the
right to have the revert, but City has to take action to initiate that process.
Mayor Grant commented that the strictest thing to say is that if they are no longer part of the
Head Start program providing free daycare, the City would get the property back. He does not
feel that is necessarily the line to take, and there is the condition subsequent. That if the
property is no longer used for non-profit civic purposes, then the City would have the right to
get the property back.
Commissioner Katz stated that he supports the Mayor. He is correct that if they alter the
programing, that should not be a disqualifying factor. Yet if they no longer provide free
programing to the community, they are no longer serving the purpose of the property.
City Attorney Cherof stated the deed itself can come back to the Commission for approval.
Tonight, the Commission is approving the agreement to enter into the transaction but is not
going to consummate transaction. It will come back to the Commission for review and
approval.
Motion
Commissioner Romelus moved to approve Proposed Resolution No. R21-156 and Proposed
Resolution No. R21-157. Commissioner Penserga seconded the motion. The motion passed
unanimously.
Commissioner Penserga asked for clarification on if the City is still able to obtain the land but
it would have to be initiated by the City.
City Attorney Cherof replied yes and at that time the Commission would look at the events
leading up to the change of use for the property and decide whether or not to take the property
back or perhaps what the intended or modified use was meets the needs of the City
Commission's expectations going forward from that point. It gives the Commission another
opportunity to look at it.
Motion
Commissioner Katz moved to approve a fee simple condition subsequent to the deed to
have the purpose of civic non-profit added to the deed. Commissioner Penserga seconded
the motion. The motion passed unanimously.
G. Proposed Resolution No. R21-158- Amend the FY2020-21 budget, which will
adjust budgetedappropriations and revenue sources and provide spending
authority for Department or Fund Operating and Capital Budget.
Commissioner Penserga pulled item 6G.
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Commissioner Penserga asked for an overview of the item.
Mara Frederiksen, Director of Financial Services, commented that Exhibit A has the budget
amendment for the General Fund. The first line item is department budget transfers, that is the
overages and deficits between the departments. That is what we are moving for year-end. It
totals to a zero. We are increasing the overall general fund budget from $97 million to $99
million. We are recognizing $1.5 million in revenue of sales tax that we received over our
budgeted revenue, so we are compensating the expenditures by the revenue there.
Commissioner Penserga inquired about the majority of the $1.5 million.
Ms. Frederiksen commented that the first line item on Exhibit A, some of it is overage and
underage between the department divisions. Then the majority of that is overtime. It is not
coming out of the fund balance because the City received revenues over and above.
Mayor Grant inquired about using the Florida Textile Recycling program funds. He would like
for the Commission to be able to decide where those funds go.
Ms. Frederiksen stated that at the time the contract was renewed in September, it was
requested that the Commission follows the same standards of the Community Support Fund.
$44 thousand has been collected in the Florida Textile Recycling.
Commissioner Penserga inquired about the dollar amount that can be requested.
Ms. Frederiksen stated that at the time of renewal, it was recommended that a tenth of it go
to the Commission.
City Manager LaVerriere commented that it was not recommended to use it all.
Mayor Grant feels that the funds are meant for the Community. The Commission should
receive an additional $2,000 for this fiscal year. There would be $34 thousand remaining in
that fund balance.
Commissioner Katz stated he would like to have a process in place because it is a larger sum
of money. It could be specific to the agreement with Florida Textiles.
Mayor Grant stated that it would be best to discuss during the budget hearings and that the
Commission at that time understands where the money is coming from. He would like to
spend a portion of the money in the next four months.
City Manager LaVerriere commented that the Community Support Funds process that is in
place now would be applicable to this. There are certain criteria that needs to be met. It is
public money and falls under the requirements of approval by the Commission as a
transparency.
Mayor Grant inquired about how much money is collected annually from Florida Textile.
Ms. Frederiksen stated approximately $20,000.
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Commissioner Katz commented that he does not object to a small incremental increase using
this funding source. He does have concerns relative to allocating larger amounts of money,
on an elected official by elected official basis akin to some of the issues that occurred in
Riviera Bach years back and then down in Broward. He does not support increasing
discretionary pot that elected officials individually require approval. He said that is pretty much
a rubber stamp. He does not want to get into a position where the $44,000 could be divided
up, now everyone has $8,000 or $10,000. In Riviera Beach, the concern was that some of
those elected officials were doling out money to groups they had relations with.
Mayor Grant commented that he has given half of his Community Support Funds to non-
profits. If he had the ability to distribute more it would be advantageous for the community.
The additional $2,000 per Commissioner and Mayor is within line.
Vice Mayor Hay stated that he believed that in the past each Commissioner had $10,000 for
Community Support Funds and there were no issues. He does not have a problem with an
increase. It would require Commission reviewing and even modifying the guidelines to make
sure that we stay within the boundaries.
Commissioner Penserga commented that he supports the increase. There is a great amount
of organizations we could help out. We are doing a good thing with regarding the concerns
of how it can go wrong. He does not understand these concerns. The Commission does
review each request and then votes on it. There is a process. There is transparency.
Commissioner Katz stated it could be his personal view based on the articles he read. He
has never seen a Community Support Fund rejected. There should be more of a formal
process than just a rubber stamp.
Motion
Commissioner Penserga moved to approve Proposed Resolution No. R21-158. Vice Mayor
Hay seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.
Motion
Vice Mayor Hay moved to discuss the use of Community Support Funds from the franchise
agreement. Commissioner Romelus seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.
H. Approve the one-year extension for RFPs/Bids and/ or piggy-backs for
the procurement of services and/or commodities under $100,000 as
described in the written report for November 15,2021 - "Request for
Extensions and/or Piggybacks."
I. Accept the written report to the Commission for purchases over $10,000 for
the month of October2021.
J. Approve the purchase of a Trimax Snake Mower, from Global Turf
Equipment Sales & Rentals inthe estimated amount of $37,496.00 for the
Links of Boynton Beach golf course as a sole source provider.
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K. Approve release of performance bond No.: 4424232 for the completion of
clearing and grubbing in association with Cortina Ill project in the amount of
$140,493.54.
L. Proposed Resolution No. R21-159 -Approve and authorize the City Manager to
sign a land use agreement between the City of Boynton Beach and Ocean
One Boynton, LLC for the 50th Annual Holiday Parade to be held December
4, 2021 .
M. Proposed Resolution No. R21-160 -Approve and authorize the Mayor to sign a
land useagreement between the City of Boynton Beach and Journey Church
for the 50th Annual Holiday Parade on Saturday, December 4, 2021 .
N. Proposed Resolution No. R21-161 - Approve and authorize the Mayor to
sign a land use agreement between the City of Boynton Beach and SunTrust
Bank for the 50th Annual Holiday Parade on Saturday, December4, 2021 .
0. Approve the Vehicles/Equipment submitted by Public Works/Fleet
Maintenance for disposal using various means such as JJ Kane on-line
auction and GovDeals.com.
Mayor Grant pulled item 60.
Mayor Grant pointed out that the 1953 police cruiser was on the list of vehicles to be disposed
of. He does not want to dispose of the vehicle yet. This vehicle helps with understanding the
history of Boynton Beach. He suggests having the vehicle restored before putting up for
auction.
Motion
Commissioner Penserga moved to amend Item 6.0. to remove the 1953 police cruiser.
Vice Mayor Hay seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.
P. Approve the purchase of three (3) replacement vehicles that were approved
in the FY21-22 budgetfor an estimated amount of $95,921 .00 by utilizing
the Florida Sheriffs Association, contract FSA20-VEL28.0. The Florida
Sheriffs contract meets the City's procurement requirements.
Q. Approve minutes from the November 2, 2021 City Commission meeting.
Motion
Commissioner Penserga moved to approve remaining items on the Consent Agenda. Vice
Mayor Hay seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.
7. Consent Agenda Bids and Purchases of$100,000
A. Approve an increase to the approved annual contract expenditure for
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Building Division "Supplemental Plan Review and Inspection Services" from
$350,000 to $525,000.
Mayor Grant noted that Item 7A needs to be approved by Proposed Resolution No. R21-165.
Commissioner Penserga inquired about the increase in the dollar amount.
Adam Temple, Development Director, stated that department utilizes contract services that
covers for vacancies in staffing. They help augment the Building Department. In February,
the contract was not to exceed $350,000, however staff is trying to correct that to bring it in
line with the past three years of spending.
Commissioner Penserga inquired about the performance of these contractual services. Does
staff recommend that we continue to do more of?
Mayor Grant questioned what happened when a citizen has an issue with the vendor that the
City is using.
Mr. Temple replied that happens occasionally. The citizen can notify the City. There is a
complaint resolution process. Staff has ongoing discussions with the vendor. The contract
gives the City the ability to have inspectors removed from the City should that be deemed
appropriate.
Mayor Grant remarked that according to Mr. Beasley, we would like to have a representative
from that vendor attend the meeting with the contractors.
Motion
Commissioner Penserga moved to approve Proposed Resolution No. R21-165. Vice Mayor
Hay seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.
B. Approve Amendment No. 2 to Task Order UT-1C-05 with Carollo
Engineers in the amount of $69,930.00 in accordance with RFQ No. 046-
2821-17/TP, General Consulting Services Contract,Scope Category C
awarded by City Commission on August 22, 2018 for additional task
associated with the Community Rating System 2022 yearly recertification.
C. Proposed Resolution No. R21-162 -Approve utilizing the City of Hollywood, FL.
Bid No. F- 4664-21-RL and Authorize the City Manager to sign an
agreement with Juniper Landscaping ofFlorida, LLC. of Fort Myers, FL for
Athletic Field Maintenance for an estimated annual cost of $335,770.81.
The City of Hollywood's procurement process satisfies the City's
competitive bid requirements.
Motion
Commissioner Penserga moved to approve the remaining items on the Consent Bids and
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Purchases over $100,000. Vice Mayor Hay seconded the motion. The motion passed
unanimously.
10. Unfinished Business
A. Discussion on the MLK Project and Centennial Management Corporation.
(Heard out of sequence)
Elizabeth Roque, Centennial Management Corporation, stated it was important for them to
be on the agenda tonight. Centennial Management Corporation postponed a closing that was
supposed to be on November 15th. They have been dealing the City of Boynton Beach staff
to request $2,083,000 from the American Rescue Act Plan (ARPA). She said they thought this
money would be coming to them from the ARPA. Ms. Roque stated that on November 1st, she
did see a document that had Centennial Management Corporation slated for $2 million which
still left the ARPA Fund $3.7 million after giving them the money. She is at the meeting tonight
because they need these funds to close. This is not something they ask lightly; they have over
$2 million in the project of their own money. It was shocking for them not to be on the agenda
tonight. Centennial Management Corporation has put a lot of time money and effort into this
Community. She asked if the Commission would approve the $2,083,000 from the American
Rescue Act Plan so they can close.
Mayor Grant inquired about why the loan Centennial Management Corporation was trying to
pull was reduced by a million dollars.
Ms. Roque commented that is correct, on top of that we had a lot of cost overrides with
construction cost increases and utilities from the City which were nominal. Bottom line is we
are still short this money and we need to be able to hopefully get it from the ARPA.
Mayor Grant stated that the CRA and the City were trying to spend a million dollars for
affordable housing within the Cherry Hill area. That money is currently tied up in that purchase.
The issue is how does the City get Centennial Management Corporation that$2 million? Using
ARPA funds, the City is not going to get that money back. The City only received so much this
year and the City will receive another$6 million next year. He does not know if the City has $2
million from ARPA in the General Fund. He does not know if the City is going to be able to
come up with $2 million. How is the City going to fund it, based upon the affordable housing
needs? The $500,000 that the City gave to the CRA can be the starting point. He asked if the
loan they were going to take out from the bank, if they were expecting an interest rate return
over so many years.
Ms. Roque replied she would expect so, yes.
Mayor Grant stated that the City cannot use ARPA funds for a loan, however, the City can use
other funds for a loan.
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Ms. Roque stated it does not have to come in the form of a loan. They are looking for the funds
from the ARPA funds and they can take the ARPA funds as a grant. It does not have to be a
loan.
Mayor Grant replied that if the City does make it a loan, they would get that money back
because it is not coming from the ARPA.
Ms. Roque stated what she is really trying to do is get a commitment. It does not have to be
today. What she needs is yes, we can give it to you in the form of a grant or a loan. This $2
million if some of it does not actually come to Centennial until the second round of ARPA
Funds, that is fine. After the City gets $13 plus million dollars, according to this November 1st
document, there will still be almost $3.7 million available. She explained they are requesting
a commitment that they can receive these funds.
Commissioner Penserga inquired what would happen if Centennial Management Corporation
did not get the funds.
Ms. Roque responded that it would be a huge impact on the community that they are planning
on building. It will make it very difficult to build it. It is also delaying the closing. By delaying the
closing, Centennial Management Corporation cannot hold their pricing and their contract falls
short.
City Manager LaVerriere stated that staff has been in continuous conversations with
Centennial Management Corporation. When staff heard that Centennial Management
Corporation were having difficulties with project costs, we all agreed that this is an important
project to us. Staff brought up the idea of using ARPA funds. Fast-forward $3.5 million left in
the fund for the City to do the many things we love to do within those communities is a drop in
the bucket. Ms. Shutt had mentioned maybe trying to use some of the ARPA money to help
out. We realized we did not have much money left. We paused on the two million. She has
reached out to Verdenia Baker with the County. The County has set aside 60 of the 200 million
they are getting for affordable housing. She told Ms. Baker that there is a good project in the
City and they need some help. Costs have gone up. Would you be willing to use some of your
ARPA funds to help us out? She said she would be interested in that and to send her some
information. That is where we are now. Ms. Shutt is putting together information. She wants
to see if she can get Ms. Baker in the County to allocate the two million. She expressed the
interest; it is just not moving as quickly as they needed it to. Ms. LaVerriere said she can give
Ms. Baker a call tomorrow. The City has the funding in the ARPA but this will take the balance
down to very little. The City would be down to about $3.5 million if we did give the $2 million.
There is $5.5 million total of the $13.9 million. The allocations for next year have already been
committed.
Thuy Shutt, Community Redevelopment Agency, stated that the CRA board has committed
approximately $2 million in TIF Abatement to help with the project. Unfortunately, with taxes
rebate, that will be fretting through 20 years' worth of time. Ms. Roque states that she needs
the money now. The money is still there to help with the $3.1 million shortfall. The CRA also
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committed money for the commercial component. Once we get the money back from the
Housing Authority auction, we have approximately $925,000 that could be utilized to help with
the City shortfall if the County cannot allocate the $2 million. This is an important project for
the County because it is bringing in approximately 124 units. Approximately 13 units are at
28% AMI and 111 at 60% AMI. This will take care of low income in that area. It is a beautiful
project, but it is that shortfall on immediate cash that Ms. Roque would need, and we are
working very hard.
Mayor Grant asked Ms. Roque when is the new closing date.
Ms. Roque replied that they have not set a closing date. They are going to try and close before
the end of the year.
Mayor Grant asked if the City gave the $2 million today, when would be the closing.
Ms. Roque stated that if the City gives them a commitment for $2 million, she will call the
attorney and tell them they are ready to close.
Commissioner Katz remarked that the amount requested is significant, but it is an achievable
amount. He said he does want to find a solution soon and we do have the money for the
affordable housing. The City has that money from the Palm Beach Housing Authority auction
that did not go the way we wanted. He would rather see those funds guarantee the
development of this project and not acquire vacant land to do infill housing. This is a definitive
amount of money that we can work with. This is a significant project that we have worked on
for years. Regarding the rest of the potential funds it is in your interest to get a grant. It would
be in the interest of the CRA or the City to issue a loan because then we would get those funds
back. Is the City able to identify funds and if the County comes through, then that means it is
a grant? If the County does not come through. Then the allocated funds above and beyond
the 900 would be a loan? Half of the funding would be a grant, the 900 or so, from the CRA
and City infill projects. The remainder alone, if the County supports the project, then it becomes
a grant.
Ms. Shut commented that out of the $925,000 the CRA was only committed to that project for
$67,000. We are not committed to the remaining four second bids. The $925,000 is available
for this project. We just need to make sure the money, through a separate ILA, we can return
the money to the City and the City can give it to Centennial. The CRA Board will probably roll
that into an amendment to the Development Agreement that we have already with Centennial.
That is an easy fix. As far as the County is concerned, they can directly enter an agreement
with Centennial. That way we do not have to go through so many steps of our government pull
of money.
Ms. Roque commented that if they can have the $925,000 the remaining balance would be
about $1.1 million.
City Manager LaVerriere commented that the $500,000 of $900,000 is ARPA funds. We
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transferred over to the CRA for the auction, that would normally come back to the City. The
City is saying keep that is half a million from ARPA with the balance the CRA had budgeted
for the land acquisition.
Ms. Thuy stated that there is also the million available through TIF for a period of ten years.
Ms. Rogues commented that would reduce the TIF to one million over 10 years. That is not
money that will bring us to closing. That is money coming in over 10 years.
Ms. Thuy remarked they can ask the County for the one million if they can give more that is
even better.
Commissioner Katz commented if we go to the County the request would be for two million.
If that does not go some middle ground where a grant/loan they give the two million.
Vice Mayor Hay stated that this project has be on a drawing board for a long time. It is very
important to him, the City, District II and the County. Whatever we can do to work this out it
needs to be done. He stated that he would put this ahead of putting out a half million dollars
to employees. He is sure that once we put our heads together we can get this resolve, and
continue to move ahead. If we can get the $925,000 then the get the remaining, we certainly
He thinks he heard the City Manager say that there is still over three million in the ARPA.
City Manager LaVerriere stated that it the total $20 million went to the Centennial project it
would leave the City with about $3.5 million for the rest of the ARPA initiatives. We are going
to talk about that on December 7th. To be fully transparent we have had an out reach meeting
with non-profits. The City received strong feed back on why we are giving so much to one
non-profit.
Vice Mayor Hay remarked he has heard those comments as well about giving so much to one.
Centennial is already out of the ground and have completed one project. This one is up and
running versus some of the others that are just ideas. He knows that we can make this happen.
Ms. Roque stated that is looks like that as of November 1st, the balance if the $2 million was
giving to the Heart of Boynton Village was $3,697,879. If the $500,000 went back to the City,
which she thinks is being said that was allocated for the Cherry Hill project would put it over
$4 million.
City Manager LaVerriere commented that she thinks the $3.5 million reflects the $500,000
coming back so that is already included.
Mayor Grant inquired if the City has the ability to offer a loan.
Attorney Cherof replied that he can not answer that tonight, this subject matter was not on the
agenda and he has not been briefed on the details. Loans can be very problematic under the
State Constitution and prohibited. He does not know the details of this transaction.
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Ms. Roque commented that the ARPA money is supposed to be given out as a grant.
Mayor Grant stated he was not talking about ARPA money. He is sure that the Commission
can state at tonight's meeting the $500,000. The CRA will have another meeting on November
30th, and then the City Commission will have another meeting on December 7th, the first
Tuesday of December. He does not know how the Commission feels about allocating the $2
million at tonight's meeting. He is comfortable with allocating at least $500,000 tonight. Then
see what we can do to try to get help from the County.
Commissioner Penserga asked for clarity on what the proposal was. What he had heard was
that the CRA could give the $900,000.
Mayor Grant stated that $500 thousand of the $900,000 was from the City's ARPA fund.
Commissioner Penserga commented that the CRA has some portion that could be allocated
for this. He also heard that the City with the ARPA funds could cover the remainder. Is that
the proposal that is being discussed? With the understanding that the City is communicating
with the County with the request that they have to refund the City by transferring over their
ARPA funds. To make up the difference that would be giving. Is that the proposal?
Commissioner Katz stated that there are approximately $900,000 in combined CRA funds and
previously allocated City ARPA funds. The goal ultimately would be to solicit the County from
their $60 million pot to put $2 million in to reimburse. He would be willing to meet with each
member of the County Commission. He has worked with a number of them for years. This is
a direct item that they have allocated $60 million for. He thinks the City has a compelling case
given what has happened to the City with regards to the funds that go to the County and are
returned in small quantities. The Palm Beach Housing Authority and its recent profit-making
endeavor versus affordable housing. He does believe it is the time to go to the County and try
to get this two million. That is why he mentioned if we make a commitment for a loan, and then
if we got it from the county, that loan would convert into a grant.
Commissioner Penserga inquired if the County agrees, would that County be giving that
money to the City or would the County have to give that money directly to the developer.
City Manager LaVerriere stated that she would have to speak with Ms. Baker. She is worried
that a reimbursement may not be something the County is interested in.
Commissioner Penserga stated that there needs to be a mechanism in place so that the City
does get the money back.
City Manager LaVerriere commented that we are exploring all that it is not fast enough What
she hearing is hearing from Ms. Roque tonight. We are agreeable to all that. We have been
doing it. It is Government and it is not going to be a quick decision on working this out.
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Ms. Roque remarked if we could get the commitment tonight from the City, with the hopes of
the County being able to give the money back to the City. If it has to come to us that is fine we
can reimburse the City with the funds. But at least this way, we get the commitment to be able
to move forward and close on this project and start building a community that is so needed.
We will be able to start doing our marketing and to start doing our lease and letting people
know that we have not forgotten about you and we are putting the shovels in the ground. MLK
project is coming to light.
Commissioner Katz thinks the issue is that we need legal language drafted before we commit.
He is comfortable moving forward but not by virtue of a vote tonight to say we are giving $2
million absent any document we cannot do that.
City Attorney Cherof stated that the best that somebody could walk out of here with tonight
that you could walk out of here tonight is conceptual approval only. There is nothing on the
agenda that would authorize the Commission to commit to a legally binding commitment. As
a matter, that would have to come back to the Commission as suggested. To answer, one of
the previous commissioners' question, the devil's in the detail on this transaction. There are
no details before the Commission, and therefore, the Commission cannot act other than
conceptually.
Ms. Roque stated that there is money in the ARPA Fund. Can you please allocate that to us?
It is there. It is available. If you can vote on that tonight great. Thank you very much, and we
can get going. I know there are legal needs and other things that are involved in this, but time
is of the essence. She is not standing here because we do not want to build it. We cannot hold
our prices the banks are getting antsy. We have a problem.
Mayor Grant clarified that Ms. Roque is asking that the Commission to conceptually, which
means there is no obligation, to approve the $2 million. Based upon what the City Attorney
stated the Commission cannot approve anything tonight. Except for staff to move forward with
approving it at the CRA meeting on November 30th and then at the City Commission meeting
on December 7th
Ms. Roque asked if there can be a special meeting.
Commissioner Penserga stated that he would be okay with a special meeting. This project is
important. The revitalizing of MLK Boulevard should not be in question. He does not want to
lose this project. If he has to attend a meeting for an hour or two that is fine.
Commissioner Romelus asked if it could be added to the November 30th meeting.
Ms. Thuy stated that there is a special meeting already scheduled for the CRA to hear
developer presentations on November 30th. She can work with the City Clerk to have a special
City Commission meeting.
Commissioner Romelus stated that if the proper documentation is ready she is ok with adding
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it to the CRA meeting on the 30th
Motion
Commissioner Romelus moved to approve the City Commission to have a special meeting on
November 30th at 4:30. Vice Mayor Hay seconded the motion. The motion passed
unanimously.
The meeting recessed at 8:19 p.m.
Mayor reconvened the meeting at 8:27 p.m:
Motion
Commissioner Romelus moved to amend the agenda to move up Items 9A and B.
Commission Penserga second the motion. The motion passed unanimously.
9-A
(Heard out of sequence)
The City Commission heard a Presentation by Dr. Susannah Bruns Ali, Ph.D.,
Associate Professor, Department of Public Policy and Administration, Florida
International University.
Commissioner Penserga inquired about the role of the Director of ENI and why it was an
independent role and not part of something that already exists.
Dr. Susannah Bruns Ali, Ph.D., Associate Professor, commented that this has to be a
unique commitment. Without that level of commitment, you are not signaling to your
organization that this matters. If it is a token that is added to someone's existing role, that
means it is not happening. Second, it is a level of follow-through. If this is someone's sole
responsibility. They are going to work with each department, each piece of the organization,
each element top to bottom, to ensure that this is happening, and also to give them a voice,
or give a place for people to go if they individually have concerns.
Dr. Meredith Newman, Florida International University, stated that this person will have
responsibility for the holistic, systemic, and synergistic effort in the transformation of the way
that work is done through this equity lens. It is a different set of responsibilities that traditional
HR director would have. What we also found in our research is that the director ideally would
report directly to the city manager. That there would be that a direct line of supervision
between that officer and the city manager. What has tripped up some of the cities the ANI
director organizationally reported to the HR Director. Who in turn reported it to the city
manager. That was the case more recently in Gainesville where the E and I Director and the
HR Director did not get along, they were not supportive of one another. The HR Director
would go to the city manager and get some approval. The E and I Director had to go through
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the HR Director, who then go through to the city manager. This role is bigger and potentially
more impactful than just adding it to a current position.
Commissioner Katz apologized if he had missed it who does the E and I report too?
Dr. Ali responded the E and I Director would report directly to the city manager.
Vice Mayor Hay stated that this would be a tremendous job for the director of Equity and
Inclusion. What kind of qualifications would best fit this position? He asked for more
information on G.A.R.E.
Dr. Newman replied that the Government Alliance on Race and Equity (G.A.R.E.) As she
mentioned earlier there are networks, governments that focus on achieving racial equity and
opportunity. Most importantly, they serve as a think tank. To help local governments, such as
Boynton Beach, incorporate best practices for inclusion on social equity. There are 360
current members of G.A.R.E. at the local and county level across the country. It is a small
network at this time. G.A.R.E. approach is fourfold to normalize conversations about race
and other manifestations of diversity. These conversations are through race, operationalize
equity, all of the policies and procedures within the workforce organized within the jurisdiction
by building skills and capacity. To normalize, operationalize, organize, and then finally
visualize what a transformed organization would look like. Becoming a member of G.A.R.E.
will allow the City to engage directly with other like-minded cities. They have a number of
really superb resources, including their equity toolkit, which takes cities step by step. In terms
of how best to continue to invade what do you agree to implement?
Vice Mayor Hay inquired if the membership is free.
Dr. Ali replied that the membership is not free.
Mayor Grant responded it is a thousand dollars.
Dr. Ali commented that currently in Florida, three entities are members of G.A.R.E. one is the
City of Hallandale. The second is one of the departments in Palm Beach County. None of us
remember the third one. It is a city. It is in the report. But there are three entities close by
who are members of G.A.R.E. That will be a good conversation for you, to have together with
them in terms of what they get out of it. Is it worth the membership? Our research is very
much with the membership.
Dr. Ali stated that the role is HR-oriented for the internal piece. Also, someone who
understands organizational change would be an important component. A person who can
walk that bridge to make sure it is looking at the internal. But keeping everyone aligned with
that external effort as well, that this is about serving your community and bridging that gap.
In many ways, if you asked me the perfect job description, the perfect job description would
be less on you need to have a degree in this degree in that. It would be more about what is
a mindset? What is the orientation, what is their experience? What is their openness to
embracing this sort of effort? It is also one that requires a lot of collaboration. With G.A.R.E
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there are lots of communities who are trying, and they are making mistakes, and they are
seeing what works. By having this connection to other organizations and other communities,
all of that learning is leveraged. It is having someone who is engaged in that way. Will make
it not just, here's what we have, our immediate plan to begin with. Five years from now, ten
years from now, that growth can continue and evolve. This is an evolution. This is not a
prescription that in 12 months you will be done.
Vice Mayor Hay stated that this would be a team of one.
Dr. Ali remarked that it is finding someone who will lead this effort as a leader instead of a
sole person. This is a full organization commitment.
Mayor Grant commented that this is like the ADA coordinator position and what the City has
done in the past regarding ADA. That it is not necessarily that aspect of racism, it is a
categorization that we have to be compliant with. There is much more to be done. Similar to
the Office of Economic Development and Strategy. It is both internal and external at the same
time. We know our office Economic Development and Strategy is looking at ways that the City
can reduce expenses and increase revenues. He is pleased to have this move forward. Myself,
Commissioner Katz, and Commissioner Romelus have four months left to direct the City to get
this in place. Hopefully, we can hire somebody before we leave. He is excited to have that
extra branch on the executive team.
City Manager LaVerriere noted that this individual would be on the executive team. This
individual will work very closely with our executive team and collaborate and have the authority
of the City Manager's office. She believes that when these responsibilities are embedded in
an HR Department, they are not taken seriously. This is a setup for failure. It is not going to
be easy. It is going to take time. It is new for everybody, and communication skills have to be
amazing.
Mayor Grant inquired if Dr. Newman had looked at the National League of Cities, Race Equity
and Leadership Program.
Dr. Newman replied that is another great model and it is mentioned in the report. One of the
appendices in the report is a list of additional resources that we found very useful.
Mayor Grant stated that the difficult thing is that the empirical evidence that this does add
value. All the public art that we have done in the City of Boynton Beach has added economic
value. It is not just in an animate object, it is something that adds value to the City. He hopes
that the City can start quantifying the value of adding diversity, equity, and inclusion to the City,
both internally and externally.
Dr. Newman commented that one of our firm beliefs is not just that what we have produced for
you, including training and future efforts, is based on research, but also that we do our research
to say what is working. What is not working, what translates, because we do want this to be a
model for other communities. In process of our doing our research, we will continue to gather
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information about where things are. What we would recommend moving forward. We envision
the City as being not one of the best in class, but the best in class. If we can succeed in these
efforts.
Mayor Grant stated that other cities will be benchmarking the City.
Vice Mayor Hay inquired about what are the measurable units and what would they look like?
Dr. Newman replied there are different pieces of the puzzle. We always have to be very careful
as researchers about claims of causation. What we look for are patterns. We do not have an
agreement that we will produce X, Y, and Z performance indicators. Your staff has been kind
enough to be open about sharing data. We will be looking through and using more advanced
statistical methods to assess where your populations are. We plan on doing both pre-surveys
and post-surveys to see where are we can capture an attitudinal change. There will be some
places where we are going to be gathering information. That will be based on these efforts and
grounded in these efforts so that we can roll it back and make it useful, and make it informative.
Dr. Ali added that there are at least two different ways that one could set forth performance
indicators. One is transactional. So, did the city hire an E and I director? Did the city conduct
employee surveys? Then the more challenging, difficult one is to capture definitively is the
transformational key indicators. Such as: To what extent did the training affect behavior in the
workplace.
Commissioner Romelus commented thank you for taking the time to do this research and to
bring it to the forefront. What stuck with her the most is that this is not temporary It is not a
report that gets shelved. Then perhaps as future Commissions come, they forget or portions
that could potentially be deleted or excised. By the time we get to five to seven years down
the road, what we are approving or enacting tonight is no longer recognizable. She proposed
and asked the Commission to support this initiative. To put this in the form of an ordinance to
be codified and be part of our future. Ultimately, she wants it to be in a permanent format. She
wants to make sure that the City learned from the mistakes of what happened in Gainesville
and other places. To have fail-safes and safeguards for this position. It will not be easy work
that they are going to be doing. They will receive pushback. She appreciates every single
person, all the 800 employees who are in this building and this organization. She knows that
not all of them agree with this thought process in this change that we are making. Be mindful
of that and not be naive to think that everybody's just going to Kumbaya and moving along
with this initiative. There needs to be strong mechanisms in place to protect this initiative make
sure that it is long-lasting. The effects that we continue to feel of the biases and the racism
that are built into the fabric of this country can start to become undone with this work. It is not
going to happen overnight. It is not going to happen in 10 years, let alone our lifetime. This is
just the beginning. We are just inching at the starting line. There is so much more. She wants
to make sure there is stronger language and a stronger follow-through from the City about this
initiative. She asked that the Commission concurs with her.
Mayor Grant stated that he is happy to concur with Commissioner Romelus, except that is not
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going to happen tonight. What he would request from her is to make the motion to approve
Resolution No. 21-163. Then to move forward with our second resolution. Then if she wants
to codify with an ordinance, is to have the City Attorney come back and discuss what would
need to change.
Motion
Commissioner Romelus moved to approve Proposed Resolution No. R21-163. Vice Mayor
Hay second the motion. The motion passed unanimously.
Motion
Commissioner Romelus moved to approve Proposed Resolution No. R21-164. Vice Mayor
Hay second the motion. The motion passed unanimously.
Motion
Commissioner Romelus moved to have City Attorney provide the language for a possible
ordinance. Commission Penserga seconded the motion. The motion passed. The motion
passed unanimously.
8. Public Hearing
6 p.m. or as soon thereafter as the agenda permits. The City Commission will conduct these
public hearings in its dual capacity as Local PlanningAgency and City Commission.
A. Proposed Ordinance No. 21-027 - First Reading - CLM Apartments (ABAN 21-
004) - Approve request for the abandonment of a 119-foot long segment of the
57-foot wide SE 21st Avenue right-of-way, extending from the FEC Railroad
right-of-way to SE 3rd Street. Applicant: Lawrence Mastropieri, CLM Capital
LLC.
City Attorney Cherof read proposed Ordinance No. 21-027 into the record by title only, on First
Reading.
Bradley Miller, Urban Design, gave a presentation on the CLM Apartments project.
Mayor Grant inquired if there are electric chargers for the tenants.
Mr. Miller replied that they have not considered or talked about through the review. One of the
things in doing this is we feel like it is going to take the tenant up to a higher quality, and he
thinks that would be a good feature to add into attractive even better.
Mayor Grant inquired if they would be willing to plant fruit producing plants.
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Mr. Miller replied that they will talk with their landscape architect.
Mayor Grant stated that the City did a study in on urban tree canopies, and palm trees provide
less economic environmental benefit than their costs compared to canopy trees. He would like
to see more canopy trees.
Mr. Miller explained that there are more palms there than other projects of this size. Because
the south area of the abonnement there are waterlines. Palms in that area will not affect the
waterlines.
Mayor Grant asked what kind of features are going to be in the break area.
Mr. Miller responded that there will be benches, barbecue grills, and picnic tables. There is
some play area that we have not fully designed yet. There are two areas, there is one on the
south side of the building and then there is a smaller area on the north side. The smaller area
would probably just be a barbeque area. It will give both ends of the community room.
Motion
Vice Mayor Hay moved to approve Ordinance No. 21-027 on First Reading. Commissioner
Katz seconded the motion.
Vote
City Clerk Gibson called the roll. The vote was 5-0.
B. Proposed Ordinance No. 21-028 - First Reading - Approve request for Future Land
Use Map amendment from Medium Density Residential (MEDR) to High
Density Residential (HDR) for CLM Apartments, a property located at 2107
SE 3rd St. Applicant: Lawrence Mastropieri, CLM Capital LLC.
City Attorney Cherof read proposed Ordinance No. 21-028 into the record by title only, on First
Reading.
Motion
Vice Mayor Hay moved to approve Ordinance No. 21-028 on First Reading. Commissioner
Penserga seconded the motion.
Vote
City Clerk Gibson called the roll. The vote was 5-0.
C. Proposed Ordinance No. 21-029 - First Reading -Approve request for
Rezoning from R-3,Multi-Family 11 du/ac to IPUD, Infill Planned Unit
Development for CLM Apartments, a property located at 2107 SE 3rd St.
Applicant: Lawrence Mastropieri, CLM Capital LLC.
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Mayor Grant tabled Item 8C to the December 7th meeting.
City Attorney Cherof read proposed Ordinance No. 21-029 into the record by title only, on First
Reading.
Motion
Vice Mayor Hay moved to approve Ordinance No. 21-029 on first reading. Commissioner
Romelus seconded the motion.
Mayor Grant read a letter of concern from Shelly Gare 423 SE 20th Court into the record.
"I'm in opposition to the zoning change from MUDR to HDR and additional multi-family
residential north-west corner SE 21st Avenue in SE Third Street. I do not believe in
changing the zoning from medium, density high density is an improvement to the
community. 20th Court is not a passable two-lane road. The community in and around
Historic Cottage District of Boynton Beach 21St Avenue, 23rd Court. SE Third Street is now
oversaturated, with rental units, low-income families, silver homes, and halfway house.
Many, two stories. Family duplexes, having guests the visitors to these rental unit's park
on the side of the road, making all the streets, congestion, and one-lane traffic, traffic is
very high. I know firsthand 23rd Court is treated like a racetrack with cars driving 50 miles
per hour or more. On several occasions when asking the driver slow down, I met with
threats and hostilities by the drivers. Residents have requested speed bumps from police
patrol many times to no avail. All the homeowners have reported that 23rd Court is blocked
by parked cars from attendees of the MCC 12 step meetings. The owner of the low-income
multi-family two-story buildings, 2107-2109 SE Third Street is negligent of upkeep,
maintenance and community concerns. In 2021, there has been a rash of violent crimes
involving guns, battery against women, fugitives, hiding, multiple families living in one unit
in his building. This year, I watched tenant at 2107 SE Third Street and his friend returned
to the first-floor unit after rounds of gunfire shot at Federal Avenue, upon complaining to
Larry, he continued to allow the tenant to live there. This was their second offense
complaint of recent bombing again. From this unit, all the homeowners are afraid and
intimidated to call the police of retaliation and threats coming from his buildings. I propose
that the owner and developers, other two-story low-income, multi-residential buildings
improvement model existing buildings, yield higher-income tenants. Below requesting
changes, any zoning laws are not even ever proven to have the community in mind."
Mayor Grant feels that the new units will improve the community.
Mr. Miller stated that it will be a big improvement. There will be a total of 26 parking spaces
for 12 units. There is current 13 parking space for eight units. Additional lighting and
landscaping. Contrary to what the letter says the tenants that were involved in the shooting
incident were removed.
Commissioner Katz inquired about the security cameras. Is the owner willing to allow the
Police Department can have access to the security cameras?
Mr. Miller responded absolutely.
Vote
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City Clerk Gibson called the roll. The vote was 5-0.
D. Approve Major Site Plan Modification for CLM Apartments to allow the
addition of a four (4) unit apartment building, associated parking and related
site improvements, on a 0.86-acre parcel, located at the northwest corner
of SE 20th Court and SE 3rd Street, and east of the FEC Railroad, in the
IPUD (Infill Planned Unit Development) zoning district. Applicant: Lawrence
Mastropieri, CLM Capital LLC.
Motion
Commissioner Penserga moved to table item 8C. Commissioner Romelus seconded the
motion. The motion passed unanimously.
E. Proposed Ordinance No. 21-026 - Second Reading - Amending the Land
Development Regulations, Chapter 1 , Article II. Definitions, and Chapter 4,
Article X. Flood Prevention Requirements to maintain compliance with
FEMA requirements and to maximize the City's National Flood Insurance
Program's Community Rating System (CRS) class rating.
City Attorney Cherof read proposed Ordinance No. 21-026 into the record by title only, on
Second Reading.
Mayor Grant asked if any changes were made to the ordinance after First Reading.
Mr. Temple responded no changes were made.
Motion
Commissioner Katz moved to approve Ordinance No. 21-026 on second reading.
Commissioner Romelus seconded the motion.
Vote
City Clerk Gibson called the roll. The vote was 5-0.
9. City Manager's Report
A. Hear a Presentation by Dr. Susannah Bruns Ali, Ph.D., Associate
Professor, Department of Public Policy and Administration, Florida
International University.
Proposed Resolution No. R21-163 - Accept the recommendations of the
Diversity and Equitylnternal Systems Benchmarking Report.
(Heard earlier in the meeting)
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B. Proposed Resolution No. R21-164 - Amend the ADA & Inclusion FY 2021-2022
budget, which will adjust budgeted appropriations, include a new position
titled Director of Equity and Inclusion and rename the department to Office
of Equity and Inclusion.
(Heard earlier in the meeting)
10. Unfinished Business
A. Discussion on the MLK Project and Centennial Management Corporation.
(Heard earlier in the meeting)
11. New Business
A. Discussion regarding the end date for the hybrid model of meetings given the
declining severity of COVID.
Mayor Grant stated that he feels that it is advantageous for the City Commission meeting to
be hybrid meetings. If we had the amount of staff here that we do online there would be
another 10 to 15 people in Chambers. It is advantageous that residence throughout the world
have the ability to attend and speak at our meetings. He does not feel that anyone has abused
public comments virtually.
Commissioner Katz stated that he requested this addition to the agenda because COVID
restrictions have been lifted. Return to normalcy would require a discussion on this. There has
been no abuse yet, as time has shown us, people will find a way to abuse things. His other
concern is that he is not certain other Commissioners could run the meeting both in person
and virtually. He does not want to pass this on to the next Commission when we created the
change for a specific purpose. He feels that a decision needs to be made and not to force it
on the next Commission. His position is to set an expiration date on hybrid meetings and return
to normal function.
Commissioner Penserga asked what date is he purposing.
Commissioner Katz replied the January meetings. He wants to invite people back to chambers
if conditions are safe. He wants to see staff come back. The New Year is a natural breaking
point.
Mayor Grant stated that there was roughly 10 staff members still in attendance virtually. He
thinks that it provides better access for people. To stop the hybrid meetings and then have
the next Commission say that they want to start the hybrid meetings again, is the wrong image.
Vice Mayor Hay stated that he agrees with Mayor Grant. The numbers are not back to the
normalcy that he would like to see. The hybrid is convenient and we have more people view
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and comment at the meetings more than before. He understands that he wants people to
physically come back. He does not think there has been a challenge with them being online.
He does not have a problem keeping it as is.
Commissioner Romelus agreed with Vice Mayor Hay she sees no issues with continuing the
hybrid model of the meetings. She would agree with Commission Katz that it might be a little
bit complicated for somebody to run the meeting both in person and virtually. She suggested
training for the new Mayor on how to run the meeting both in person and virtually. IT staff has
done a tremendous job making this model work. She noted that she had asked for this model
long before COVID. For people who cannot show up in person, people who do not have the
flexibility to be here on a random Tuesday night at six o'clock. Because maybe they have kids,
or they have work. They can still attend and still can have a voice and be a part of the civic
process. Even contribute their input online as several of the members of our community have
done. She is in favor of keeping it in this hybrid format.
Commissioner Katz clarified that he did not say that the Vice Mayor could not run the meeting.
He was saying that no one else has been trained in the virtual platform.
Mayor Grant stated is not a complicated system to learn how to use. The next Mayor should
be able to use it with a half hour to an hour training with ITS. He did ask if the Advisory Board
meetings were hybrid.
City Clerk Gibson stated that Advisory Board meetings are in person only.
Commissioner Romelus asked if the Advisory Board meetings are recorded and available on
YouTube.
City Clerk Gibson replied that only the audio recording is available online through the City
website.
Mayor Grant stated that if someone wants the transcription of the meeting then they can get
it.
City Clerk Gibson commented that it would be the minutes of the meeting and if they want to
listen to the meeting they can do so online.
Mayor Grant clarified that is someone wants a verbal transcription of a meeting because they
can not hear it. A verbatim transcription is possible.
City Attorney Cherof stated that they would have to pay for a verbatim transcription or have a
private service to do the verbatim transcription. There is a notice on the meeting agenda that
indicate the people responsible for obtaining that type of record.
Mayor Grant inquired if there has been a request for ASL interrupter for a board meeting.
City Clerk Gibson replied that we have not received a request for accommodations.
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Commissioner Penserga asked if the advisory board meetings happen in Chambers.
City Clerk Gibson responded that advisory board meetings are scheduled for Commission
Chambers whenever possible to accommodate proper recording.
Commissioner Penserga inquired about why it is audio only.
Katheryn Matos, Assistant City Manager, stated that the City spends approximately a
thousand dollars per public meeting for video assistance. Video assistance for advisory boards
would have to be considered for future budget.
Commissioner Penserga stated that he doe not understand the difference between audio and
audio video.
Mayor Grant stated that there is a big difference. Between the close captioning and having
audio recorder the way it has been done for decades.
Commissioner Penserga emphasized you are saying that when they are recording the audio,
we have to pay more for someone to turn on the cameras.
Assistant City Manager Matos stated that it is much more involved than that with having the
captioning, with having a live interpreter. The people in the back are making sure that the audio
is good. If you remember when the chambers were still under construction and when we were
doing the meetings with the Mayor in the Community Room, the quality of production was
much lower. That is because we did not have the whole setup that we have here at the setup.
We do not have the staff to manage that at this time. Our IT staff is working 40 hours a week
and then attending these meetings and the CRA board meetings to accommodate these
meetings that really would be a much larger budget item if we were to go that route.
Commissioner Romelus clarified that Commissioner Penserga is asking is it possible to just
record the meeting without all these extra enhancements, just simply recording the meeting
that could be uploaded onto YouTube.
Commissioner Penserga commented that the cameras are already here just turn them on.
City Manager LaVerriere thinks it would be a still camera versus the camera picking up each
speaker. We will find out what it costs to do that. We are going to need someone probably to
make sure the cameras are videoing properly. It is staff time or a contractor and production of
the video. It is not as intense as the GoToWebinar platform and everything that IT does on top
of folks in the back.
Commissioner Romelus stated that if we are going to do that, the only board that she thinks it
would be necessary to do that for would be the Planning and Zoning board. She does not feel
it would be necessary to do that for all the boards on our repertoire.
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Mayor Grant requested the costs associated with the fixed camera for a meeting.
City Manager LaVerriere asked Mr. McNally if she oversimplified the process.
John McNally, ITS remarked that it is primarily staff time, the extra hours in the day. We could
get a price quote if you wanted to outsource that.
City Manager LaVerriere inquired if it would be a fixed camera in the back. Or can we use the
cameras we have set it for one setting and record it?
Mr. McNally replied that we could set it for one wide shot, and then unless you are going to
have the liaisons of your advisory boards, do that for us, which is somewhat of a technical
aspect. You would require somebody from IT to staff every one of your advisory board
meetings.
Commissioner Penserga stated he does not want to belabor the point. His common sense is
telling him if somebody is here recording the audio, they can turn on the camera and record
video. At the same time, they are already here. Teachers do this left and right at a much higher
level. This should not be complicated. Again, he does not want to belabor the point. If there is
some technical aspect to this that he does not understand, that is fine. But if somebody's
already here recording the audio, just turn on the camera that is facing the dais. It should not
be that complicated.
Commissioner Romelus commented not to belabor it. She thinks that once the video is
recorded it than has to be edited. The branding has to be added. It then has to be uploaded
to YouTube. There is a little bit more than just turn on the camera.
Mayor Grant remarked that there is a cost associated with recording the meetings. He thinks
it could be an extra few hundred dollars for each meeting.
Commissioner Penserga stated that he did not realize there would be a cost of turning on the
cameras.
Mayor Grant commented absolutely. Talk to any production company, and they will tell you it
is expensive to turn on the cameras.
Commissioner Romelus stated that the attendees of an advisory board are City staff and the
board. It is a little bit more where you have to bring in other staff members, sit in the backroom,
and man the camera, even if it is just a still wide shot. If there are any IT issues or technical
difficulties you will need IT staff to fix them. She agrees with Commissioner Penserga. That is
why she also said maybe it might be better to record the quasi-judicial boards. Disagreements
occur on that board that then come directly to us. That would be probably the best board for
video recording capacity if you are asking for it.
There was a consensus to get the costs associated with recording the Planning and
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Development board meetings.
12. Legal
A. Proposed Ordinance 21-030 - First Reading - Approve Ordinance amending
Chapter 2. "Administration", Article IV, entitled "Purchasing & Consultants",
Section 2-56(c) is herebydeleted in it's entirety and replaced with a new
Section 2-56(c) to amend the process to dispose of City-owned real
property.
Mayor Grant stated that he is not happy with item d, when appraisals are needed. He feels
that anything under a half million dollars is as needed is not right. He thinks that anything
under hundred thousand dollars an appraisal is not needed. The amount would go from a
hundred thousand to one million and line 80 would be a hundred thousand.
Commissioner Penserga asked for clarification on the dollar amounts that are to be amended.
City Attorney Cherof replied that in subsection B on line 77 it would go from one hundred
thousand to one million. Then on line 80 it would be five hundred thousand to one hundred
thousand.
Motion
Commissioner Romelus moved to approve Ordinance 21-030 on First Reading as
amended. Commissioner Katz seconded the motion.
Vote
City Clerk Gibson called the roll. The vote was 5-0.
13. Future Agenda Items
A. Sign Code Amendments - December 7, 2021
B. City lobbyist Mat Forest to give a preview of the 2022 State Legislative Session
2022 and discuss the City's annual Legislative Agenda. - December 7, 2021
C. Consultant Presentation of Housing Needs Assessment - December 7, 2021
D. School Board Member Erica Whitfield to present report on the state of
education to the City Commission. - January 4, 2022
E. Discuss process and estimated costs for a Recreation & Parks Bond
Referendum Question - January 18, 2022
F. FIU Presentation of Racial and Social Equity Community Needs Assessment
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Findings - January 18, 2022
G. City of Boynton Beach FY20/21 Strategic Plan Update and 5-Year FY 2022-
2027 Strategic Plan Framework - January 18, 2022
H. Building Department staff will present an update on the implementation of
the new SagesGov software for permitting and inspections - January 2022
I. Discuss disposition of vacant 3.62 acre parcel adjacent to Leisurevillle
and west of SW 8th Avenue -TBD
J. Discussion regarding adjusting traffic signal timing for pedestrians during off-
peak hours. -TBD
K. Discuss Building Safety Inspection Program - (Pending outcome of 2022 legislative
session)
L. Proposed Ordinance No. 21-025. First Reading. Approve Development
Agreement Ordinance.(Tabled from the September 21, 2021 City Commission Meeting.)
- TBD
M. Mayor Grant has requested a discussion regarding naming the urban
orchard at Sara Sims Parkfor Latosha Clemons - TBD - first meeting in
January
Mayor Grant requested an update on café vendors for City Hall and Arts and Culture Center.
City Manager LaVerriere stated that staff has been speaking with Feeding South Florida and
exploring some possibilities which will be included in the update to the Commission. Whether
or not we want to consider that café space an incubator format from a food café standpoint.
Mayor Grant remarked that he would be ecstatic. The Community Caring Center took over our
library cafe for a while. The fact that they have the Community Caring Center as part of their
strategic plan. That would be something he would be in favor of within the next couple of
months that we could get the ball rolling,
Commissioner Romelus stated that she would be ecstatic to add that feature to the cafe area.
Especially since the only food incubator spaces are in West Palm.
City Manager LaVerriere stated this would be Feed South Florida can teach a barista program.
It is not a cooking kitchen, it will be reheating, smoothies and sandwiches. Someone can come
in and learn how to run a restaurant and prepare food. We still have to bid it out and we have
been working on that scope.
Mayor Grant stated that he would like to discuss Item 13M at the January 4th meeting.
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14. Adjournment
There being no further business, Mayor Grant adjourned the meeting at 10:23 p.m.
CITY OF OY , TON BEAC
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. r i rsioner— Justin Katz
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RECEIVED
N1V16 'I(1)1
I am a homeowner at 423 SE 20th CT. Boynton Beach CIN OF BOYNTON BEACH
I am in opposition to the zoning change from MEDR to HDR& additional multi family
residential on NW corner of SE 21st Ave & SE 3rd St.
I do not believe changing the zoning from a Medium Density to High Density is an improvement
to the communty.
20th CT is not passable as a 2 lane road.
The community in and around, Historical Cottage District of Boynton Beach, 21st Ave and 23rd
Ct., SE 3rd St., is now over saturated with rentals units, low income families, sober houses and
1/2 way houses. Many 2 stories high, and multi family duplexes.
Having guests, the visitors to these rental units, park on the side of the road. Making all the
streets, 21 St, SE 3rd St, and 20th CT, congested and one lane traffic.
The traffic is very high, I know first hand that 23rd Ct. is treated like a race track. With cars
driving 50 mph or more. On several occasions when asking the drivers,to slow down, I am met
with threats and hostility by the drivers.
The residents have requested speed bumps and police patrol many times, to no avail.
All the homeowners have reported that 23rd Ct. is blocked by parked cars, from attendees to the
MCC, 12 step meetings. (Federal Ave & 20th CT),
Larry Mastropieri, owner of the low income, multi family, 2 story buildings, at 2107 & 2109 SE
3rd St. is negligent of up keep, maintenance, and community concerns.
In 2021, there has been a rash of violent crimes, involving guns, battery against women, fugitives
hiding, and multiple families living in one unit in his buildings.
This year, I watched a tenant at 2107 SE 3rd St, and his friend, return to first floor unit after
rounds of gunfire were shot on Federal Ave. Upon complaining to Larry Mastropieri, he
continued to allow this tenant to live there, This was their second offense/complaint, of recent,
involving a gun from this unit.
All the homeowners are affraid and intimidated to call police because of retaliation and threats
coming from his buildings, 2107 & 2109 SE 3rd St.
I propose that the owner, and developers, of 2107 & 2109 SE 3rd St., 2 story, low income, multi
residentail buildings, improve and remodel the existing buildings, yield higher income tenants,
before requesting changing any zoning laws. He has not ever proven to have the community in
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