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Minutes 02-08-99MINUTES OF THE 3OINT CITY COMMISSION/CHAMBER OF COMMERCE WORKSHOP MEETING, HELD IN THE LIBRARY PROGRAM ROOM ON MONDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 1999 AT 7:00 P.M. PRESENT City of Boynton Beach Gerald "Jerry" Taylor, Mayor Shirley .laskiewicz, Vice Mayor Jamie Titcomb, Commissioner Kerry Willis, City Manager Sue Kruse, City Clerk Wilfred Hawkins, Manager of Support Services Melody Green, Recreation Superintendent Virginia Farace, Library Director Mike Rumpf, Acting Planning & Zoning Director Others Present Art Rowe Jim Miriana Dot Moore Chamber of Commerce Ken Kaleel Kathy Shabotynskyj Kim Beaumont Victoria Costello Larry Finkelstein Al Martin Jeanne Heavilin Tony Newbold Richard Philpott Stormet Norem Steve Otway CALL TO ORDER Mayor Taylor called the meeting to order at 7:04 p.m., welcomed everyone and announced that Wilfred Hawkins would facilitate the meeting. Mr. Hawkins reported that he and Ms. Shabotynskyj developed the agenda as a follow-up to the last meeting and in anticipation of how the Chamber would like to move forward in the future. There being no additions or corrections to the agenda, it was accepted as presented. I. Visions 20/20 A. Overlay Zoning & Transitional Use Corridors Incentives for Existing NoncOnforming Properties Overlay zoning has been discussed as a means of transitioning older uses in the City. At the last meeting, the City Commission approved funding for a pilot project to help some nonconforming property owners make improvements. Mr. Rumpf explained that a lot of hard work went into the Visions 20/20 document and many recommendations were formulated and accepted by the City. However, implementing those recommendations is not always an easy job. Mr. Rumpf explained that the purpose of an overlay district is to implement or apply unique development regulations specific to a geographic area or corridor. The Visions 20/20 Plan recommends implementing overlay zones in the following areas: US If::[ Corridor, the Marina Area, and the Ocean Avenue Promenade. The overlay districts do not correspond with the zoning MEETING MZNUTES CITY COMMISSTON/CHAMBER OF COMMERCE WORKSHOP MEETING BOYNTON BEACHf FLORZDA FEBRUARY 8f 1999 boundary districts. If all of the recommendations from the Visions 20/20 document were inCOrporated into the City's regulations, they would be strewn throughout the regulations and we would not be able to find them. An overlay district represents a consolidated set of regulations. Overlay districts would be used in areas where we want to: discourage/prohibit selected uses; require pedestrian-friendly designs; encourage "view" corridors; · encourage public activity area; · influence compatible design; and · we wish to implement our future parking strategy. Another area involves the coastal corridor that includes the Central Business District north to the C-16 Canal. In this area, it is recommended that coordinated sign regulations be established, lot depth and front setbacks be minimized, buildings be moved forward to eliminate parking in front, encourage/discourage certain uses and develop specific design guidelines including the replacement of outdated structures. For the Ocean Avenue Promenade, the following is recommended: · Uniquely regulate uses, setbacks, parking requirements, hours of operation, design and architecture. With the proper staffing, regulations could be in place prior to projects being submitted. As an example, Mr. Rumpf referred to the Katz shopping project that is west of the FEC railroad tracks. That project was submitted before some of the design regulations could be implemented. Therefore, the process was slightly delayed. The Katz project is not really within the Central Business District;-instead it is on developed property where current regulations such as parking standards and setbacks are in effect. Commissioner Titcomb requested an explanation of how a project such as the Katz project was handled when staff was caught off guard. Mr. Rumpf explained that during the preapplication meeting, staff had a quick brainstorming session to determine whether the project was in the Central Business District or whether or not to utilize the overlay concept. It was determined that rezoning the property would trigger a Land Use Plan amendment that could take more than one year to accomplish. Using the overlay district was determined to be preferable. Mr. Hawkins reported that staff started the process of developing the overlay-zoning district that will be reviewed by the City Commission. Mr. Rumpf explained that the Planning & Zoning Division is not at full staff. Two senior positions are vacant at this time. :Interviews have taken place and offers have been made to two candidates. Due to the number of projects expected, Mayor Taylor suggested that consideration be given to expanding the Planning & Zoning Division. City Manager Willis advised that it is quite possible that additional staff will be required. There have been extensive discussions about hiring a new Development Director with CRA experience. She believes this would provide the leadership in an area where we need expertise. After the Director is hired, an evaluation of existing staff will be made to determine whether or not we have sufficient manpower to handle anticipated activity. Once the "Eastward Ho" funding is in place, we will do the evaluation and ~nalysis of our staff. In response to Ms. Shabotynskyj, Mr. Rumpf recommended that property owners who are interested in making improvements to nonconforming properties schedule a meeting with staff. At that time, they will MEE1-J:NG MZNUTES CZTY COMMZSSZON/CHAMBER OF COMMERCE WORKSHOP MEETTNG BOYNTON BEACHf FLOI~ZDA FEBRUARY 8f 1999 be advised of the City's plans with respect to overlay zones. Vice Mayor .laskiewicz recommended that the next Visions newsletter contain an explanation of the process. Mr. Rumpf pointed out that the overlay district implements Visions 20/20 recommendations that may or may not be sensitive to existing development projects or properties. Vice Mayor ,laskiewicz envisions that there will be contacts made to some of the people with nonconforming properties to improve their properties. Ms. Shabotynskyj asked for clarification of the setback requirements in the overlay zones. Mr. Rumpf explained that when an effort is being made to orient a corridor in a pedestrian-friendly way, the setback requirement is important. However, in the CBD, there is a zero setback. When Vice Mayor .laskiewicz pointed out the importance of putting the parking in the rear of buildings, City Manager Willis reminded her that some of the buildings we will have to work with are more than 20 years old. Vice Mayor _laskiewicz reported that she and the committee are working with a number of property owners who want to improve their property. She wants to be certain that these projects are on track before she leaves office. These projects will serve as models for the future. Vice Mayor .laskiewicz advised that Goodyear has a nonconforming sign. A suggestion was made to lower the sign to bring it into conformity. The property owner is also considering the addition of landscaping beneath the sign. Vice Mayor .laskiewicz is very confident that this program will be very successful. However, she pointed out that once the six-month period expires, the City must impose a Code because not all of the property owners will voluntarily improve the appearance of their property. The model projects will include Lloyd's Laundry, the apartment complex across from Lloyd's and a few properties on Federal Highway. .leanne Heavilin questioned whether this assistance would be available to a business buying an existing business on Federal Highway. Mr. Sugerman advised that the rules of the program were written so that such a case would not be prohibited. City Manager Willis explained that the City Commission needs to make a policy decision with regard to the possibility or availability of irrigation metering to assist in the landscaping upgrades on nonconforming uses. This has been the subject of discussion but requires policy consideration. At the present time, we have Codes that require the payment of fees on a formula basis based on square footage in accordance with our Bond requirements for the installation of a meter. One of the issues of debate has been if the City wants the property owners to improve their properties above the Code, does the City want to sponsor the irrigation meter for that commercial business? This could amount to significant dollars, zf the decision is made to do this, we need to move forward with making it happen. Vice Mayor .laskiewicz questioned why the City would have to be specific since there is a specific amount that would be allowed. City Manager Willis said it is necessary to be specific because this requirement is in the Code. Vice Mayor .laskiewicz explained that Lloyd's is paying for his own irrigation system and landscaping. However, he requested assistance with the capital outlay fee that amounts to approximately $1,000. City Manager Willis explained that this is a separate and distinct Code that would require an action of the Commission apart from what we have done to date. Vice Mayor .laskiewicz clarified that the City would not be paying the water bill. Consensus There was a consensus of the-Commission that staff should prepare a Resolution in conjunction with the project that would address the cap fee for irrigation meters. This Resolution will be brought to the City Commission for consideration at the next regular City Commission meeting on February 16th, MEETING MINUTES CITY COMMISSION/CHAMBER OF COMMERCE WORKSHOP MEETING BOYNTON BEACH, FLOI~DA FEBRUARY 8, 1999 When Ms. Shabotynskyj asked how the people who are providing in-kind or technical assistance could be recognized, Mr. Hawkins recommended that the Chamber develop a recognition program to help motivate them. Ms. Shabotynskyj suggested implementing community appearance awards fashioned after criteria used in other cities. Mr. Rumpf said there is a program in place and there is a Resolution or Ordinance on the books. Mr. Hawkins talked about the Chamber encouraging its members to offer in-kind services. Ms. Shabotynskyj said a system should be devised to place these people with expertise in a pool. This pool could be marketed and promoted and those who offer their services could be recognized each year. Mr. Kaleel suggested offering incentives to reduce the costs of doing a project. This would stretch the available funds. The names of property owners who wish to make improvements could be put on a list if they "do something". That "something" could be determined. Vice Mayor .laskiewicz pointed out that when Chuck Mucciolo assists with the architecture, the property owner saves dollars by not having to hire an architect. At Ms. Shabotynskyj's request, Mr. Hawkins advised that most businesses want to do projects such as landscaping upgrades, parking lot repaving, signage, and painting. Offering in-kind services of people with expertise in these areas would be of great assistance. Ms. Shabotynskyj said the Chamber would put together resource lists and market the program. B.1 B.2 Boynton Beach Boulevard Promenade & Planning for Special Events and Maintaining Ocean Avenue & Marina Area Economic Vitality Virginia Farace advised that a sub-team meeting would be held February 9th at 9:30 a.m. in the Library Program Room. She invited anyone interested to attend. She further invited Mike Rumpf to attend to explain the overlay parameters for the Promenade area. Ms. Shabotynskyj advised that a group has been discussing the progress trail that would combine the Boynton Beach Boulevard Promenade and the Ocean Avenue Promenade. The meeting on February 9th will be devoted to naming the components of a station, its appearance, the time frame for erecting the stations and the details that would be available at each station. Discussions have taken place regarding having people stop at the Library to pick up a cassette recorder to listen to a walking tour of Boynton Beach. However, it would probably be set up as an independent trail for people to travel towards. There were discussions about the Boynton Beach Promenade. Tt was felt that the retention pond would not be a gathering site because there is not enough room even though it connects to the Promenade. Mr. Sugerman said the retention pond is not the kind of place where events could be staged. Ms. Shabotynskyj said there is agreement among the committee members that open space is needed for gatherings. They would like shaded areas with picnic tables and shelters. They would also like to connect the retention pond with Mangrove Park and the Promenade. Electricity would be required around the Promenade for special events. Ms. Green added that if there is an opportunity to get additional space around the retention pond, it could be a showcase for Boynton Beach to hold special events that would attract a lot of people to the downtown area. As described at the present time, only 200 people could fit in the space. Ms. Willis advised that project packages are being separated so that we can have stand-alone event space as the project is phased in. Phase T is scheduled to go concurrently with Pond "B". MEETING MINUTES CITY COMMISSION/CHAMBER OF COMMERCE WORKSHOP MEETING BOYNTON BEACH, FLORIDA FEBRUARY 8, 1999 Mayor Taylor was of the opinion that the Promenade would provide additional space. At the present time, a large number of people are accommodated in the downtown when the G.A.L.A. is held. Mr. Hawkins pointed out that it is a good idea to have people moving around throughout the downtown because it shows off the area and excitement. Vice Mayor .]askiewicz feels the movement of people would benefit the business community. With regard to Ocean Avenue, Mr. Hawkins said staff is getting ready to put the project package together. Mr. Rumpf explained that the process has been slightly delayed because of the staff shortage. However, a designer should be on staff soon. Staff will identify characteristics of the project and the type of team that is required to do this project. During the design stage, staff will take out some of the flexible elements of the project and take them to special interest groups for assistance with the decision making. This process could take approximately one year. Mr. Hawkins pointed out that the Visions 20/20 document already addresses design issues and materials. This information will be incorporated into specifications for bidding purposes. Options will be provided for public input prior to the final decision being made. With respect to the Port Promenade (Boynton Beach Boulevard extension), it will be necessary to obtain right-of-way from DOT. We have requested the application to move forward in that direction. In response to Mr. Kaleel's question about time goals, Mr. Rumpf stated that once the necessary staff is in place and the project is engaged, time goals will be set. Mr. Hawkins pointed out that the City of Lake Park hired a city architect and a city designer to do the Lake Park "Park Avenue" project. This is a magnificent project that was done in-house. That project is no different than what we are trying to do in Boynton Beach. An in-house team should be in place within 30 to 60 days. That team will then research the Visions 20/20 plan and come up with options. These will be preliminary specifications. The City will accept feedback and the project will be put out for bid. When the bids are returned, they will be opened and the contractor will be selected. Once the contract is signed, a Notice to Proceed will be prepared and signed and the project will begin. Mr. Hawkins is hopeful the groundbreaking for this project will be before next winter. Vice Mayor ,~askiewicz reminded everyone present that things are still happening during this process. The museum is in progress and there are private projects moving forward. Ms. Farace advised that the brick paver dedication ceremony will be held at the end of February for the Children's Museum. In response to Mr. Finkelstein's question about the Ocean Avenue Promenade and Boynton Beach Boulevard Promenade Phase :[, Mr. Hawkins said the City would ultimately like to do both projects simultaneously. However, the Ocean Avenue Promenade is the priority because there are few design or right-of-way issues to deal with. C. D.O.T. (Ocean Avenue Bridge) Community Committee Mr. Sugerman reported that the Ocean Avenue Bridge project is well underway. The project is approximately 15% complete on the construction end and 12% complete on the dollars spent. :It is slightly ahead of schedule. The project is on target and on schedule. This is a F.D.O.T. project and we can only have some positive or negative influence on what is happening. MEETING MINUTES CITY COMMISSION/CHAMBER OF COMMERCE WORKSHOP MEETING BOYNTON BEACH, FLOR2DA FEBRUARY 8, 1999 City Manager Willis was pleased with the communication, cooperation and notification of the residents and businesses in the area. This has been accomplished through the community committee. City Manager Willis commended Mr. Sugerman for staying on top of this situation. When Ms. Shabotynskyj requested a fact sheet and picture of how the project will look when it is completed, City Manager Willis suggested that she contact Bob Curde. Mr. Sugerman said he would work on providing something for the next newsletter. BOYNTON G.A.L.A. TRANSI'rZON Commissioner Titcomb reported that the Executive Steering Committee of the G.A.L.A. has been meeting regularly to oversee issues involved. This year, even though the bid process was cleaned up and made more fair and efficient, the same two bidders submitted bids. ~[n addition, the committee tried to create direction and incentive along the lines of the philosophy of the Commission to move G.A.L.A. into the private sector. The Chamber of Commerce has been approached to look at this event as a possible future owner and/or partner of the event. Ms. Green advised that the City has provided the Chamber of Commerce with audited financial reports for five years so that they can evaluate the G.A.L.A. revenues and expenditures. They were also provided with five years of committee chair evaluations for each section of the event. The City has shared its commitment to do eyerything possible to facilitate making G.A. LA. the event the Chamber would love to have. Mr. Kaleel said the Chamber is taking this event very seriously. There will be a special meeting of the complete board specifically to discuss this G.A.L.A. event. The Chamber is in the process of hiring a consultant to look at where this event can be taken into the future. The City has done a great job with G.A.L.A.; however, the event is not a profitable venture at present for the Chamber and they cannot afford to lose $60,000 to $70,000. The Chamber will investigate how to move this event to the next level. Tt is anticipated that the Chamber will present a Letter of Tntent to the Commission prior to the March meeting and they look forward to a commitment from the Commission to turn this event over to them. Ms. Green explained that the assessment of a $60,000 to $70,000 loss annually involves the staff time involved in planning this event. If staff is replaced with volunteers, those costs could be significantly reduced. To facilitate the Chamber taking over this event, staff recommends that the City continue to provide Police support and sanitation and parks cleanup. This would equate to $7,000 to $12,000 per year. City Manager Willis feels this recommendation is reasonable. Mr. Kaleel anticipates that the Chamber will bring forth a proposal within 60 to 90 days. Ms. Shabotynskyj inquired about the Chamber's position in this effort since the majority of the Commission will be changing in March. Mayor Taylor responded that although he cannot speak for the new Commissioners, he is hopeful they would continue along in the same direction. City Manager Willis advised that the City is very strong in terms of staff level of confidence and planning internally and externally. The key is to stay in the right direction in bringing in elected officials who want to continue in this direction. III, NEW BUSINESS: A. Assessment of the Chamber & City Working Together on Issues MEETI'NG MI'NUTES CI'TY COMMI'SSI'ON/CHAMBER OF COMMERCE WORKSHOP MEE'I'~NG BOYNTON BEACH, FLOR'rDA FEBRUARY 8, 1999 Ms. ShabotynSkyj inquired as to whether or not the Commissioners felt there would be opportunities for the Chamber and City to work together in the future. Commissioner Titcomb felt this process was quite important and recommended that one of these workshops be held as quickly as possible after the new Commission is seated. He feels communication is the key to everyone getting on the same page. He encouraged the Chamber to continue this same format. Mayor Taylor noted that this Commission did not work in a vacuum. The Commission listened to all segments of the community and the business community is an important part of that process. Tn turn, the Chamber needs to listen to the Commission because the Commissioners are in touch with many of the residents. The business community is a very important voice at the table. However, the residents are the people the City provides for. Tt is important to mesh the ideas together. The business community must remember that while it is important to do what is good for business, the needs of the community must be considered. We must keep the lines of communication open in this City, and there must be give and take on all sides. Mr. Kaleel said the impetus at the Chamber is that they are taking a more global look at what is going to happen in the community. They set up a Community Relations Division that is geared to that purpose. The Chamber needs a strong community to have good business, and good business is necessary to have a strong community. Tt is important to work together. Mr. Kaleel thanked the Commissioners for their input over the past few years and said they were instrumental in moving the City forward through cooperation and communication. He is hopeful this will continue far into the future. Mayor Taylor advised that in some communities, the Chamber of Commerce plays a very strong role in the politics of the community. Tn Delray Beach, the Chamber of Commerce was an extremely important political piece of the community. Mayor Taylor does not believe this is true in Boynton Beach because when he ran for office, some very important leaders in the community told him that they would not support him because he was too close to the Chamber of Commerce. The "Chamber of Commerce" was a bad word in Boynton Beach at that time. Mayor Taylor said he has tried very hard to change that attitude and get the community, City government and Chamber of Commerce working together. ]~f the Chamber wants to get involved in politics, they should put together a Legislative Committee and let people know where they are going. ]:n closing, Mr. Hawkins advised that the City would move the minutes forward and develop future agendas. He announced the CRA meeting that will be held on Wednesday, February 10th, TV. AD3OURNMENT There being no further business to come before the City Commission, the meeting properly adjourned at 8:30 p.m. MEETZNG M?NUTES CTTY COMMTSSZON/CHAMBER OF COMMERCE WORKSHOP MEETZNG BOYNTON BEACH, FLORZDA FEBRUARY 8, 1999 ATTEST: City'Clerk CITY OF BOYNTON BEACH Mayor .// l~a'~yor Fro Tem Commissioner 2/17/99 2:48 PM imp 8