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Minutes 10-01-19 MINUTES OF THE CITY COMMISSION MEETING HELD AT THE INTRACOASTAL PARK CLUBHOUSE 2240 N. FEDERAL HIGHWAY, BOYNTON BEACH, FLORIDA ON TUESDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2019, AT 6:30 P.M. PRESENT: Steven B. Grant, Mayor Lori LaVerriere, City Manager Justin Katz, Vice Mayor James Cherof, City Attorney Mack McCray, Commissioner Crystal Gibson, City Clerk Christina Romelus, Commissioner Ty Penserga, Commissioner OPENINGS A. Call to Order - Mayor Steven B. Grant Mayor Grant called the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m. Invocation by Pastor Randy Patterson, Seacrest Presbyterian Church. Pastor Patterson gave the invocation. Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag led by Commissioner McCray. Mayor Grant led the members reciting the Pledge of Allegiance. Roll Call City Clerk Gibson called the roll. A quorum was present. Agenda Approval: 1. Additions, Deletions, Corrections Motion Vice Mayor Katz moved to approve the agenda as presented. Commissioner McCray seconded the motion. Meeting Minutes City Commission Boynton Beach, FL October 1 , 2019 2. Adoption The motion unanimously passed. 2. OTHER A. Informational items by Members of the City Commission Vice Mayor Katz, Commissioner Romelus and Commissioner Penserga had no disclosures. Commissioner McCray indicated he presented a citation to Bishop Kenneth and Reverend Chiquita Jones of the House of Kingdom Worship Center for their 19th anniversary. He noted the Church was a drop off for Bahamian relief supplies. Mayor Grant informed the Commission on September 18th he attended the United Way Breakfast of Champions and Habitat for Humanity CEO Build. September 19th he attended the Palm Beach County Transportation Planning Agency meeting in Boca Raton, where he was selected to attend the Association of Metropolitan Planning Organization Conference, October 20-25-2019. He met with Michael Weiner, attended a meeting with Quantum Park Overlay Development District. September 20th attended the retirement of Officer Bill Tome at Carver Middle school, he looks forward to his continued work with the City of Boynton Beach. September 21st attended a Feeding South Florida event; he thanked Commissioners Romelus and Penserga for handing out food. September 231d he attended the Sister Cities meeting, and they requested our delegate to Coalition of Boynton West Residential Association (COBWRA) for a new sister city of Farindola. September 25th he had a meeting with the International College of Health Science. September 26th he met with a representative of the Delray Open. September 27th he attended the Builders Boot Camp, which was held at the little league field. He received some emails regarding the maintenance of the benches. Wished everyone a Shana Tova and said it is the year 5780 in the Jewish calendar. Commissioner McCray requested clarification if the Mayor would be attending as a representative of the City of Boynton Beach or as a representative of the Transportation Planning agency member. Mayor Grant replied he was going as a representative to the Transportation Agency as the Mayor of Boynton Beach. 3. ANNOUNCEMENTS, COMMUNITY AND SPECIAL EVENTS AND PRESENTATIONS A. Lakisha Burch, CMC, Southeast District Director for the Florida Association of City Clerks, will present Judy Pyle with a resolution recognizing her retirement. 2 Meeting Minutes City Commission Boynton Beach, FL October 1, 2019 Lakisha Burch, Southeast District Director for the Florida Association of City Clerks, presented Judy Pyle with a resolution from the Florida Association of City Clerks. Judy Pyle, CMC, former City Clerk of the City of Boynton Beach, accepted the resolution. B. Feeding South Florida will provide a follow up report to the City Commission on the September 21, 2019 Food Distribution Event. Sari Vatske, Executive VP will make the presentation. Sari Vatske, Executive Vice President of Feeding South Florida, announced that in addition to the food drive, the City donated 1000 pounds of food. She thanked the Commissioners and City Manager for participating with distributing the food. Stated hunger does not know a season, age, color or race. Together with their partnership, they served about 262 households, which provided food for 1174 individuals, of which 600 were children. As part of the partnership, the City reached out to the businesses in Boynton Beach, which raised $1000. Updated the Commission on a program called Extra Helping, powered by a Google platform called Meal Connect, which helps connect food from businesses and restaurants and get it to those which need the food. There are five restaurants that would be participating in the Extra Helping. Commissioner Romelus asked for clarification regarding Extra Helping. Ms. Vatske noted in the United States about 40% of all food goes to waste. Meal Connect is a platform supported by Google, Walmart and General Mills. This program allows volunteers to help rescue food; the application would inform the volunteer to pick up the food. Commissioner Romelus asked how the restaurants could get involved. Ms. Vatske suggested the restaurants visit the FeedinqSouthFlorida.com website. C. Announce that the City is partnering with Community Greening to host a Tree Giveaway on October 5, 10am-12pm at Sara Sims Park. Mayor Grant announced the City of Boynton Beach would collaborate with Community Greening to host a tree giveaway on October 5, 2019, from 10:00am to 12:00 noon. Rebecca Harvey, Sustainability Coordinator, announced the City was proud to partner with the local nonprofit Community Greening to host a tree a give-a-away at the newly renovated Sara Sims Park located at 209 NW 9th Avenue. This event is sponsored by a community revitalization grant from the Community Foundation of Palm Beach and Martin County. This was part of a larger project focused in the Heart of Boynton increasing the tree canopy and public greening in the neighborhood. The project would include school planting, urban orchard planting, an additional tree giveaway in conjunction with Earth Day. 3 Meeting Minutes City Commission Boynton Beach, FL October 1, 2019 D. Recreation & Parks Director will make an announcement about the 2019 Fall Festival that will be held at Intracoastal Park on Saturday, October 19 from 3 P.M. to 6 P.M. So dress in your best costume and take memorable pictures. The first twenty-five participants to attend the event will receive a free pumpkin. Wally Mayors, Recreation & Parks Director, announced the City of Boynton Beach Fall Festival being held at the Intracoastal Park on Saturday, October 19, 2019; from 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm. Noted this is a free event and open to the public. This Saturday, October 5, 2019, the Boynton Beach Wildcats are hosting their homecoming activities. They are playing Miami Gardens Little League. The first game begins at 10:00 am and last game at 7:00 pm. Introduced Diane Valentini as the new Manager of the Cultural Center. E. Recreation & Parks Department Assistant Director Kacy Young will make an announcement regarding the 6th Annual Rally for the Cure event that will be held at the City's Tennis Center, 3111 S. Congress Avenue, on Saturday, October 26 beginning at 9 A.M. Kacy Young, Recreation & Parks Assistant Director, announced the 6th Annual Rally for the Cure tennis tournament held at the City of Boynton Beach Tennis Center, located at 3111 South Congress Avenue, Saturday, October 26, 2019, beginning at 9:00 am till 12 pm. There is a cost of $25 per person. This tournament provides a platform for Breast Cancer awareness. After the tournament, there would be a light lunch served by Texas Roadhouse. F. The City of Boynton Beach recognizes the efforts of the Alzheimer's Association and their annual Walk To End Alzheimer's, held this year on Saturday October 19, 2019 at Meyer Amphitheatre to raise funds and promote awareness to fight Alzheimer's disease and related disorders, thereby improving the quality of human life for those living with Alzheimer's disease and their caregivers. Mayor Grant recognized the efforts of the Alzheimer Association provided a proclamation. Keith Gibson, representative of Alzheimer's Association, Southeast Chapter. He challenged all to come out to support the annual Walk to End Alzheimer's.. G. Proclamation in recognition of the fourth annual national Energy Efficiency Day on October 2 2019, the City of Boynton Beach is joining regional and national organizations, businesses, utilities, and individuals working to promote energy efficiency — the cheapest, quickest way to meet our energy needs, cut consumer bills and reduce pollution. Energy efficiency is also an economic engine, supporting 2.3 million jobs nationwide in manufacturing, construction and other fields. Mayor Grant read a proclamation recognizing the fourth annual National Energy Efficiency Day on October 2, 2019 in the City of Boynton Beach. 4 Meeting Minutes City Commission Boynton Beach, FL October 1, 2019 Rebecca Harvey, Sustainability Coordinator, accepted the proclamation for Energy Efficiency Day. Pointed out energy efficiency means smart energy use, adopting efficient technology, using less energy to provide the same service and appliances, which are more efficient. Energy efficiency fosters social equity by saving households hundreds of dollars per year. The City of Boynton Beach has a program which rewards businesses and residents for making smart energy choices. The Energy Edge Rebate program uses funds from the green building fee to provide rebates up to $1,500 to residents and small businesses for installing solar panel, electric vehicle chargers, and energy efficient improvements, water heaters, doors, windows and more. Eligible property owners or businesses must apply before completing their project. Mayor Grant inquired how much in rebates was given to the residents through its Energy Edge Rebate program. Ms. Harvey replied she believes it was about $60,000. Mayor Grant asked how much money was available as of the New Year 2019/2020. H. Proclaim the week of October 13-19, 2019 as Poverty Awareness Week in the City of Boynton Beach. Mr. Ontario "OJ" Johnson will be accepting the proclamation. Mayor Grant proclaimed the week of October 13-19, 2019 as Poverty Awareness Week in the City of Boynton Beach. Ontario "OJ" Johnson, representative of Pathways to Prosperity and CIRCLES Palm Beach County, thanked the Commission for the proclamation. Noted poverty is not just the poor person's problem, it is everyone's problem. The program provides for individuals under the Federal poverty guidelines and teaches them different ways of looking at money, savings, approach to employment, which changes the entire outlook. Mr. Johnson introduced Latoya Scott, graduating class of 2016 in the CIRCLES Palm Beach County program. Ms. Scott was able to take the tools she received from CIRCLES, and saved $20,000 to purchase a home. Ms. Scott began the program under the 125% Federal poverty level. The approach was about ending poverty through community. The attendees set goals and move towards being self-sufficient. There is an opportunity to help and share wisdom; let us attack poverty as a unit. Commissioner McCray asked for information regarding the graduation class. Mr. Johnson explained Pathways to Prosperity is an 18-week program, which teaches self-sufficiency. If needed, the attendees return for guidance of Community Resources such as financial, insurance, to help them to achieve goals. Latoya Scott indicated she was a resident of the City of Boynton Beach prior to purchasing her home in Port Saint Lucie. Thanked the CIRCLES Palm Beach County program and the City of Boynton Beach. 5 Meeting Minutes City Commission Boynton Beach, FL October 1, 2019 I. Mayor Steven B. Grant will proclaim that the City of Boynton Beach is committed to partnering with the United States Census Bureau to help ensure a full and accurate count in 2020 and will establish a complete count committee. Sandy Goodman, US Census Partnership Representative, will accept the proclamation. Mayor Grant proclaimed the City of Boynton Beach is partnering with the United States Census Bureau to help ensure a full and accurate count of residents. Sandy Goodman, US Census Partnership Representative, accepted the proclamation. Thanked the Boynton Beach and said the City of Boynton Beach excels in its marketing campaign; they continue to create messages which works. The jingle, which was developed by the City of Boynton Beach, "don't forget to count your kids", was so impressive it was forwarded to the regional office in Atlanta. They are working on this to be replicated to be implemented everywhere. In addition, the "Baby on Board" is being replicated by other cities. He stated after researching Palm Beach County website, for municipalities he choose to use Boynton Beach as the example as what is the best, they have the greatest/best presentation of census presentation. He notified the other municipalities replicate what Boynton Beach has done. He looks forward to a complete and accurate count. J. Announce the "Topping Off' Event by Eleanor Krusell, Public Communications & Marketing Director Eleanor Krusell, Public Communication & Marketing Director, announced the construction of the City Hall and Library is reaching its completion of the structural phase and there will be a celebration and signing held October 2nd from 11:30am-1:00 pm. K. Coffee with a Cop. Vanessa Snow, Assistant Police Chief, City of Boynton Beach, noted the event is on Wednesday, October 3, 2019 at Brooklyn Water Bagel, from 8:00 am until 10:30 am. Come out and have some good conversation. L. Drop in for Business over Coffee David Scott, Economic Development Director, announced on the First Thursday of each month, a free networking event for City businesses is at Fire Station 5, located at 2080 High Ridge road. Business over coffee. Mayor Grant requested an explanation of "Why Boynton?". Mr. Scott noted this asks a question and gives answers on why open a business in Boynton Beach. The website shows businesses and residents why so many businesses and residents choose Boynton Beach as their home. On the main website is everything beautiful about Boynton and why to invest in Boynton Beach. 6 Meeting Minutes City Commission Boynton Beach, FL October 1 , 2019 4. PUBLIC AUDIENCE INDIVIDUAL SPEAKERS W ILL 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 coming before the City Commission) Minister Bernard Wright, Bernard Wright Ministries, Real Talk Radio, and Robert E. Wells' Foundation, wanted to speak about the Cultural Center at the Old School House. In 2014, he initiated a historical research project, which the cultural history represented. He asked to be involved and engaged in the cultural center. Mayor Grant stated he could get involved with the Historical Resources and Preservation Board. Minister Wright stated he was working to get Poinciana school recognized on the historical registry Commissioner McCray stated we are all citizens of Boynton Beach. Susan Oyer, 140 SE 127 Way, invited the entire Commission to raise money for delegates of Farindola. Noted when she and the Mayor visited, the same was done for them. Requested help getting a permit for solar panels approved. Commissioner McCray thanked Ms. Oyer for keeping the City abreast of Global Warming. Kalra Lakhmichand, 3842 South Lake Drive, wanted to present some slides and expressed he was the only person which has an access to the property on Lake Ida. Vice Mayor Katz, encouraged Mr. Lakhmichand to send the slides to the Commission. Commissioner Romelus agreed and reiterated to Mr. Lakmichand to send the slides to all Commissioners to have the presentation viewed publicly. Mr. LaVerriere indicated she placed a call to the Interim City Manager of Delray Beach and spoke with Mr. Fishman after the last meeting. Mr. Lakmichand stated the City of Delray Beach would annex the land. Gary L. Fishman, 3504 Diane Drive, pointed out his neighborhood is in Boynton Beach. Noted the City does have a horse in this race, this land was stolen from Mr. Lakmichand. The access would be though their neighborhood. He stated it does not make sense to put a park in this area. Please help Mr. Lakmichand put luxury homes in this neighborhood. This was important, thanking the Commission in advance for their support. Commissioner McCray clarified the City of Delray did not steal the land, that property should have been a connector; he restated that Delray did not steal the land. 7 Meeting Minutes City Commission Boynton Beach, FL October 1 , 2019 Tory Orr, 407 NE 17 Avenue, said he attended the fast hiring at the City and it was a joke. There were more than 200 people turned away. The computer was supposed to push out interviews. Mr. Orr stated the Heart of Boynton is left for dead. Indicated the City was forcing their hand. He knocked on doors, and told people they would have an interview from the City of Boynton Beach. This did not happen. He has a felony and has been clean for 9 years and paid his debt, but will never be given a chance. He represents Boynton Strong, showing up and their love and commitment. He said what the City did was wrong. Charles Hunt, 1330 NW 1st Court, requested information regarding the land which was cleaned up adjacent to his property. His entire neighborhood wants to know what was going on. On the west side of Seacrest as soon as you cross the canal, the area is now beautiful. Mayor Grant indicated this was private property. Commissioner McCray stated this was private land owned by the Bible Church of Boynton, they just cleaned their property. They made their property look beautiful. Mr. Hunt stated when they got to his house they stopped. The property was owned by Lake Worth Drainage District. He was interested in the Historical Preservation Board seat available. Mayor Grant indicated the applications are online or at the City Clerk's office. No one else coming forward, Public Audience was closed. 5. ADMINISTRATIVE A. Appoint eligible members of the community to serve in vacant positions on City advisory boards. Mayor Grant read open board positions. 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 accompanying material to become a part of the Public Record and subject to staff comments Mayor Grant requested to pull item C. 8 Meeting Minutes City Commission Boynton Beach, FL October 1 , 2019 A. PROPOSED RESOLUTION NO. R19-103 - Authorize the City Manager to enter into an agreement for renewal of an annual subscription to EBSCO Learning Express Database for one year in the amount of $9,452.00 for the Library. B. PROPOSED RESOLUTION R19-104 - Approve and authorize the City Manager to enter into an agreement for renewal of an annual subscription to ProQuest Ancestry Library Database for one year in the amount of $3,380. C. PROPOSED RESOLUTION NO.19-105 - Authorize the City Manager to sign all documents associated with the acceptance and grant agreement for the VOCA grant subject to the approval of the City Attorney. Mayor Grant wanted to clarify the City Manager would be signing the VOCA grant application. Commissioner McCray asked if this was because of the dollar amount. Mayor Grant indicated the City Manager's name is on the VOCA grant application. Attorney Cherof noted the City Manager is authorized to sign all documents relating to the VOCA grant. Motion Commissioner McCray moved to approve. Motion seconded by Vice Mayor Katz. That unanimously passed. D. Accept the Fiscal Year 2018-2019 Budget Status Report of the General Fund and the Utilities Fund for the eleven (11 ) month period ended August 31 , 2019. E. Approve utilizing the Village of Wellington Contract No. 024-16/DZ with Professional Tennis Court Services for tennis court maintenance under the same scope, specification, terms, conditions, and price per tennis court totaling $78,741.48 annually based on the seventeen (17) above ground tennis courts for a one-year term starting October 1, 2019. F. Approve the minutes from City Commission meeting held on September 17, 2019. Motion Vice Mayor Katz moved to approve the remainder of the Consent Agenda. Commissioner McCray seconded the motion that unanimously passed. 7. CONSENT BIDS AND PURCHASES OVER $100,000 9 Meeting Minutes City Commission Boynton Beach, FL October 1 , 2019 A. PROPOSED RESOLUTION NO. 19-106 - Approve and authorize the City Manager to sign an Agreement utilizing the City of West Palm Beach Supplemental Staff Agreement with U.S. Water Services Corporation (ITB 16- 17-119) for water and wastewater operation and management services thru June 06, 2020 for an amount not to exceed $110,000. The West Palm Beach procurement process satisfies the City's competitive bid requirements. B. PROPOSED RESOLUTION NO. R19-107 - Authorize Mayor Grant to sign the Hazard Mitigation Program Grant (HMGP) cost-reimbursement Contract #H0054 for Phase I/pre-award of Lakeside Gardens Neighborhood (Dimick and Potter Rd. project) — Drainage Improvement FEMA project number 4337-121- R, obligating federal funds for the amount of $83,250.00 with a $27,750.00 match from Utilities for a total of $111 ,000.00. The period of performance is upon execution thru June 30, 2020. C. Authorize the purchase of Extreme Networks switches, access points, licensing, and maintenance from STEPcg of Covington, KY in the amount of $362,491.29, utilizing the State of Florida Alternate Contract Source Number 43220000-WSA-14-ACS for the purchase, installation, and configuration of networking equipment at City Hall, Old High School/Cultural Center, and Fire Station #1 . The State of Florida Alternate Contract complies with the City of Boynton Beach's competitive bid requirements. D. Approve utilizing the Palm Beach County Contract No. 19069 (Bid No. 19- 069/MB) with Morton Salt, Inc. for Sodium Chloride under the same terms, conditions, and prices for a one-year term for an estimated annual expenditure of $207,000. Motion Commissioner McCray moved to approve the Consent Agenda over $100,000. Commissioner Penserga seconded the motion that unanimously passed. 8. PUBLIC HEARING 7 P.M. OR AS SOON THEREAFTER AS THE AGENDA PERMITS The City Commission will conduct these public hearings in its dual capacity as Local Planning Agency and City Commission. A. PROPOSED ORDINANCE NO. 19-012 - SECOND READING - Approve text amendments to the Comprehensive Plan Future Land Use, Intergovernmental Coordination and Capital Improvements Elements, reflecting elimination of school concurrency and deletion of Public School Facilities Element; and 10 Meeting Minutes City Commission Boynton Beach, FL October 1 , 2019 Attorney Cherof read the proposed Ordinance No. 19-012 into the record by title only on second reading. Motion Commissioner McCray moved to approve. Commissioner Penserga seconded the motion.. City Clerk Gibson called the roll. Vote was 5-0. PROPOSED ORDINANCE NO. 19-13 - SECOND READING - Approve text amendments to the Comprehensive Plan Transportation Element creating the framework for potential future establishment of mobility fee. City-initiated. Attorney Cherof read the proposed Ordinance No. 19-013 into the record by title only on second reading. Motion Commissioner McCray moved to approve. Commissioner Penserga seconded the motion. Mayor Grant indicated was very important for the City of Boynton Beach to help improve the transportation of the City of Boynton Beach City Clerk Gibson called the roll. Vote was 5-0 B. PROPOSED ORDINANCE NO. 19-029 - SECOND READING - Approve request for abandonment of a portion of the unimproved NE 3rd Street right-of- way, north of NE 9th Avenue, in connection with: Attorney Cherof read the proposed Ordinance No. 19-029 into the record by title only on second reading. Motion Commissioner McCray moved to approve. Seconded by Commissioner Romelus with discussion. Commissioner McCray stated this is something which was long overdue. Mayor Grant agreed. City Clerk Gibson called the roll. Vote was 5-0 11 Meeting Minutes City Commission Boynton Beach, FL October 1, 2019 PROPOSED RESOLUTION NO. R19-100 - Accepting the dedication of property from the Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) and realignment, and extension of NE 3rd Street from NE 9th Avenue to Martin Luther King, Jr. Boulevard (ABAN 19-001). (Resolution adoption will be upon second reading of the Ordinance) Applicant ; Michael Simon, CRA Executive Director. Mayor Grant read the proposed Resolution No. R19-100 into the record by title only. Motion Commissioner McCray moved to approve. Commissioner Penserga seconded the motion that unanimously passed. C. PROPOSED ORDINANCE NO.19-034 - SECOND READING - Approving efficiency improvements to the Site Plan Review Process (CDRV 19-007) through amendments to the LAND DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS Chapter 2. Land Development Process, Article II. Planning and Zoning Division Services, Section 2. F. Site Plan, Including Time Extension and Modifications that begin implementing staff recommendations from the internal review of the City's development review process. Applicant: City-initiated. Attorney Cherof read the proposed Ordinance No. 19-034 into the record by title only on second reading. Motion Commissioner McCray moved to approve. Commissioner Penserga seconded the motion. Mayor Grant inquired about site plans expirations timelines. Amanda Bassiely, Principal Planner, responded currently site plans have an 18-month timeline; there is a build in extension. Mayor Grant asked if there was a maximum time allowed. Ms. Bassiely responded there is a State regulation. Ed Breese, Planning & Zoning Administrator, responded 18 months is what is granted, unless it was from the governor's office. Site plans issued by the City are 18 months, and the applicant are able to apply for an extension. If nothing has been accomplished on the site plan, the extension could be denied. Mayor Grant had some issues with site plans approval, and then nothing takes place on the site. He provided an example of the Club currently being build. The site plan initially approved in 2009 and it took more than 10 years before construction began. 12 Meeting Minutes City Commission Boynton Beach, FL October 1 , 2019 Mr. Breese replied the permit approved during the downturn in the economy. The applicant received extensions and permits. Mayor Grant asked if there was a way to protect future City Commissions from the issue of a site plan approved but never moved forward. Inquired if Commission could place a maximum of five years for site plans regardless of emergency declarations. Mr. Breese responded the City could approve a one-time extension, for city issued permits. The City does not have any control over emergency declaration. Mayor Grant asked if the Governor issues an emergency declaration, the City does not have any control. Mr. Breese stated if the Governor issues an emergency order, the applicant gets to tack on additional time. Commissioner Penserga asked what are the types of declarations of emergency. Mr. Breese explained that they had Zika, Algae, Opioid he stated as long as it affects Palm Beach County the City of Boynton Beach is affected. Commissioner Romelus agreed if the permitting were under the City purview, she would be in favor of some type of cap on the time. Mayor Grant asked if the City could ask if they could reapply and be subject to a new tax. Mr. Breese stated it depends on the type of application. Mayor Grant provided an example - Cortina, the site plan was approved in 2000, but based on the old ordinances. Mr. Breese stated they have a valid permit to move forward. This was a phase project, indicated in a non-phase project the City could review the project based on the current code. Mayor Grant opened to public comments. Susan Oyer, 140 SW 27 Way, noted the language should be changed. Mayor Grant inquired if the City could have the minimum of 12 months instead of 18 months? Mr. Breese stated at one point, the City elected to have minimum of 12 months. Staff found many developers were asking for extensions. Staff has no objections changing from 18 months to 12 months, which only affects City of Boynton Beach time extensions not governed by the State. Mayor Grant asked if there were a new declaration of emergency the applicant would receive additional time. Mr. Breese indicated that was correct. He suggested working with the lobbyist to bring this before the legislature. There are projects which have four or five years just sitting unbuilt. 13 Meeting Minutes City Commission Boynton Beach, FL October 1 , 2019 Mayor Grant asked if this board would be willing to have less than 18 moths. Vice Mayor Katz stated by virtue of the emergency, changing our Code does not affect the State Statute. Vice Mayor Katz stated it may take 18 months to secure financing, we could create a problem by reducing the time. There may be more appeals. He does not think this could be solved with a local ordinance. Commissioner McCray was in agreement with Vice Mayor Katz. Commissioner McCray agreed with Vice Mayor Katz. Mayor Grant indicated the developer tries to sell the plan to the highest bidder. The City could have 12 months with two extensions. Commissioner Romelus stated she was not in agreement with the Mayor. Commissioner Penserga stated the problem needed to be fixed, this was a State issue. The lobbyist needed to be aware of the City's concerns. Motion City Clerk Gibson called the roll. Vote 4-1 (Mayor Grant dissenting) D. Approve MLK Overlay and Use Matrix Revisions Part I (CDRV 19-006) - Amending the LAND DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS: Mayor Grant read the item into the record. Motion PROPOSED ORDINANCE NO. 19-030 - SECOND READING - Amending the LAND DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS: (1) Chapter 1. General Administration, Article II. Definitions; Attorney Cherof read proposed Ordinance No. 19-030 into the record by title only on second reading. Motion Commissioner Romelus moved to approve. Commissioner McCray seconded the motion. City Clerk Gibson called the roll. Vote was 5-0 PROPOSED ORDINANCE NO. 19-031 - SECOND READING - (2) Chapter 2. Land Development Process, Article II. Planning and Zoning Division Services; Attorney Cherof read proposed Ordinance No. 19-031 into the record by title by title only on second reading. 14 Meeting Minutes City Commission Boynton Beach, FL October 1, 2019 Motion Commissioner Penserga moved to approve. Commissioner Romelus seconded the motion. City Clerk Gibson called the roll. Vote was 5-0 PROPOSED ORDINANCE NO. 19-032 - SECOND READING - (3) Chapter 3. Zoning, Article III. Zoning Districts and Overlays, and Article IV. Use Regulations; and Attorney Cherof read proposed Ordinance No. 19-032 into the record by title only on second reading. Motion Commissioner McCray moved to approve. Commissioner Penserga seconded the motion. City Clerk Gibson called the roll. Vote was 5-0 A. PROPOSED ORDINANCE NO. 19-033 - SECOND READING - (4) Chapter 4. Site Development Standards, Article V. Minimum off-Street Parking Requirements, to implement modifications to MLK Overlay, modifications to rezoning-master plan application process, corrections pertaining to Mixed-Use zoning districts and revisions to Use Matrix, Residential and Lodging category. Applicant: City-initiated. Attorney Cherof read proposed Ordinance No. 19-033 into the record by title only on second reading. Motion Commissioner McCray moved to approve. Commissioner Penserga seconded the motion. City Clerk Gibson called the roll. Vote was 5-0 Commissioner Romelus asked if the Commission wanted to list this as a legislative priority to the lobbyist. Lori LaVerriere, City Manager, stated staff was working on a draft listing of items presented to the Commission prior to submitting to the lobbyist. 15 Meeting Minutes City Commission Boynton Beach, FL October 1, 2019 9. CITY MANAGER'S REPORT A. An updated administrative Social Media Use Policy has been developed by the Public Communications and Marketing Department. Lori LaVerriere, City Manager, stated the social media policy was an administrative policy, which covers all employees as well as the elected officials' use of public media. Eleanor Krusell, Marketing Director indicated staff has made many changes to the social media policy. The main changes she shared, was the approval process for users. She stated in the past, employees created Facebook accounts. Language and ADA has been included as well as policy for training for all who are on social media sites. Mayor Grants requested clarification regarding campaign accounts. He asked if this refers to the City of Boynton Beach campaign accounts or any campaign accounts. Ms. Krusell stated as an example if anything is posted on Mayor Grant's Facebook, the Mayor must adhere to the policy not promoting other campaigns. Commissioner McCray asked when would there be training sessions. Ms. Krusell indicated there would be training in mid-November, one for elected officials and one for staff. Commissioner Romelus thanked Ms. Krusell for the social media policy. Vice Mayor Katz requested additional clarification regarding elected officials' accounts, which are not regulated by the city. He asked if he could not endorse another candidate. There is a reference to sharing or liking a candidate which the policy prohibits. Attorney Cherof stated the way the policy was written, the answer was yes. Vice Mayor Katz stated he has issues with that. Noted he was not an employee of the City of Boynton Beach, but an elected official. If he had a City-run Facebook page he could understand; the elected officials are not employees. Commissioner Romelus stated it was offered, for the elected official could decide not to follow these rules. The City does not have any recourse. Vice Mayor Katz stated it was a violation of a policy rule, which could be used against him, they could be admonished. Mayor Grant stated there are personal accounts and work accounts. We cannot use our title to make money on social media. Attorney Cherof responded yes. He suggested in Section 2, the City could add language, "the following non-binding recommendation offered". Vice Mayor Katz stated he would be comfortable with that. Commissioner Romelus stated staff could take out item D. (Gavel passed to the Vice Mayor) 16 Meeting Minutes City Commission Boynton Beach, FL October 1, 2019 Motion Commissioner Romelus moved to approve as written. Mayor Grant seconded the motion. Vote 3-2 (Vice Mayor Katz and Commissioner McCray dissenting) B. City staff and the development team for Town Square will provide a brief update to the Commission on the status of the project. Colin Groff, Assistant City Manager, introduced Mark Hefferin. Mark Hefferin, E2L Real Estate Solutions, LLC, thanked the Commission for the opportunity to provide an update. Stated the Police building off High Ridge and Gateway is scheduled for completion in February 2020. Met with the Chief of Police and everything was on scheduled. Provided some video photo clips of the police department, the Art Center and City Hall. Informed the Commission the waste material is being reused as the road base; the mission of the City was a sustainable community. The District energy system Chiller, which will serve Town Square, is now being commissioned. Staff is working with FPL getting the final power connected to the facility. The Fire Station adjacent to the Chiller is expected to be fully operational February 2020. City Hall Library is on schedule and they are on budget. Commissioner McCray inquired if the security system has been ordered for the police department. Mr. Hefferin replied the order has been placed, and Motorola was the winning bidder.. It was a constant challenge to stay up with technology. Shot Spotter would be implemented throughout Town Square. Commissioner Penserga inquired if there were any unexpected issues for Town Square. Mr. Hefferin indicated they have been very fortunate concerning Hurricanes. They lost more than one week with the preparation for Hurricane Dorian. Indicated there was an incident where one of the workers on the City Hall building was using a piece of equipment to set one of the panels, which came loose from the building. Because of this incident, two days was lost for an investigation with OSHA. He stated there are always challenges. They are very successful with Building Wealth in the Community. Vice Mayor Katz wanted to have similar information regarding parking information. He is requesting City staff and members of the partnership regarding plans to mitigate plans or concerns. He wants to know as soon as possible of any issues. Commissioner Penserga stated he supported that request. 17 Meeting Minutes City Commission Boynton Beach, FL October 1, 2019 Mayor Grant requested a consensus to provide updates on the parking in Town Square. There was consensus. John Markey, JKM Developers, spoke about the Building Wealth in the Community. He noted JKM Developers has been participating in City job fairs, worked with David Scott of Economic Development. He has expressed to the City Manager that one of the best things this City has done was to hire Mr. Scott. Stated the main architect is a Boynton Beach based Architect. The Technical engineer has been in Boynton Beach for years. He has been in Boynton Beach for many years. Commissioner McCray inquired how long Mr. Markey has been working in Boynton Beach. Mr. Markey replied he began working in Boynton Beach in 1996. They are making a conscious effort to hire from within Boynton Beach. He understands the construction phase would have at least 60% of local contractors. Mr. Markey stated the south garage permit has been approved. He explained at the last commission meeting both buildings needed to be financed together. They are in the process of buying out that project; they hope to have a guarantee maximum price contract to close financing on that project within 30 days. The garage construction is currently scheduled to commence November 1, 2019, and part of that is predicated on the understanding the site would be ready. The schedule is for June 2020. They are confident the Central Building could be accelerated; there are 3-4 different units.. They are working with staff regarding the north garage. Commissioner Penserga asked for a completion date for the parking lot. Mr. Markey stated the completion date was June 2020. 10. UNFINISHED BUSINESS - None 11. NEW BUSINESS A. Approve Request of Commissioner Romelus to distribute $500.00 of her Community Support funds to Growing Strong Ministries, Inc Motion Commissioner McCray moved to approve. Commissioner Penserga seconded the motion. 12. LEGAL A. Pursuant to Section 286.011(8), Florida Statutes, the City Attorney is requesting a private attorney-client session of the City Commission to discuss pending litigation. 18 Meeting Minutes City Commission Boynton Beach, FL October 1, 2019 DAVID FLOERING, Plaintiff, vs. PAUL FREDERICK GREEN, CITY OF BOYNTON BEACH and STATE NATIONAL INSURANCE COMPANY, INC., a Foreign for Profit Corporation, Defendants — Palm Beach County Circuit Court Case No. 50 2017 CA 010537 Attorney Cherof requested to have an Attorney Client session with the Commission. In attendance will be the City Attorney James Cherof along with Assistant City Attorney Tracey DeCarlo, City Manager Lori LaVerriere, a Court Reporter, the Mayor and City Commission. We will need approximately 45 minutes. Mayor Grant suggested October 15, 2019 at 5:30 pm. There was a consensus for October 15, 2019 at 5:30 p.m. B. City Commission authorization to file four (4) separate lawsuits on non- homestead properties. Mayor Grant read the item into the record. Motion Vice Mayor Katz moved to approve. Commissioner McCray seconded the motion. Mayor Grant requested a list of the property addresses. Commissioner Penserga asked if all the property owners have been notified of the liens. Attorney Cherof stated they all are aware that the city has initiated activity on the property, which gives rise to a lien. In addition, that there are outstanding amounts. In conjunction with proceeding litigation, it would give them another notice. Once it is established who should have notice, everyone would receive a written notice. Commissioner Penserga asked how many have replied or made some effort to come into compliance. Adam Temple, Community Standards Director, stated throughout the course of the Code Enforcement process all of the property owners have been served noticed, within the prescribed parameters. He provided addresses of the properties. Commissioner Romelus asked when was the most recent communication made with these property owners. Mr. Temple stated there were different dates. 19 Meeting Minutes City Commission Boynton Beach, FL October 1, 2019 Attorney Cherof stated that in respect to the Benjamin Ho property, communication was within the past 10 days as he appeared before the Building Board of Adjustment and Appeals. They discussed their case and the condition of one of their properties. Commissioner Romelus stated that was within the past 10 days. Attorney Cherof stated they did not deal with any of the issues regarding the Code Compliance issues. They were only dealing with the building. Mayor Grant asked the expected cost from start to the end to foreclose on a property. Mr. Temple stated it was about $10,000. Commissioner Romelus stated there was a lien case where the property was not aware there was a lien on the property. The owner was only asked to pay the administrative fees. She was not comfortable foreclosing on properties. Vice Mayor Katz just because the City files a lawsuit does not mean the property owner could not come to a meeting to find an option other than foreclosure. Commissioner McCray noted filing a lawsuit would let these individuals understand the City was serious. Motion Commissioner McCray moved to approve. Commissioner Penserga seconded the motion. Vote 4-1 (Commissioner Romelus dissenting) C. PROPOSED ORDINANCE NO. 19-035 - SECOND READING - Approve Ordinance establishing regulations regarding the posting of underage drinking signs. Attorney Cherof read proposed Ordinance No. 19-035 into the record by title only on second reading. Motion Vice Mayor Katz moved to approve with discussion. Commissioner Penserga seconded the motion. Vice Mayor Katz stated per the direction from the last meeting, the penalty for non- compliance has been stripped from the ordinance. Attorney Cherof stated section three was deleted in its entirety and section four was renumbered. 20 Meeting Minutes City Commission Boynton Beach, FL October 1, 2019 City Clerk Gibson called the roll. Vote 5-0 D. PROPOSED ORDINANCE NO. 19-036 - SECOND READING - PUBLIC HEARING - Approve the change in qualifying dates for candidates for the March 17, 2020 municipal election. Attorney Cherof read proposed Ordinance No 19-036 by title only on second reading. Noted ordinarily a City charter provision such as setting a date could only be amended through charter amendment, but these two state statutes provide an exemption to re-fix the dates for qualifying. Mayor Grant stated this would be part of the state presidential primary election. There would be early voting and mail in ballots and this would not cost the City any money, because the state would be running it. Crystal Gibson, City Clerk, stated the City would piggyback on the State election. Motion Commissioner Penserga moved to approved. Commissioner McCray seconded the motion. Commissioner McCray asked if all candidates had been notified. Ms. Gibson replied that potential candidates who have contacted the Clerk's Office or declared their intent to run have been notified. Ms. Gibson pointed out this information would be published in the newspaper and on the City of Boynton Beach website. City Clerk Gibson called the roll. Vote 5-0 E. PROPOSED ORDINANCE 19-037 - FIRST READING - Approval of an Ordinance of the city commission of the city of Boynton amending chapter 18, pensions and retirement, of the code of ordinances to create a new article xi, "deferred retirement option plan" providing for uniform deferred retirement option plan benefits for all city employees; amending conflicting provision of drop benefits contained in the general employee, fire and police pension plans; providing for delayed implementation to accommodate collective bargaining or waiver of bargaining. Attorney Cherof read proposed Ordinance No 19-037 into the record by title only on first reading. Motion Vice Mayor Katz moved to approve. Commissioner McCray seconded the motion. 21 Meeting Minutes City Commission Boynton Beach, FL October 1, 2019 Mayor Grant pointed out this ordinance was changing the guaranteed fixed rate to a range, it does not go below 0% and the employees cannot lose their money. Ms. LaVerriere stated it would be 0%-8% depending on the plan experience. Mayor Grant asked if this would require the employee to take their money out when they retire. Ms. LaVerriere replied this would be up to the Commission. Attorney Cherof read the clause on line 15, "the employee must select the distribution within but no later than 45 days following the employee termination". Ms. LaVerriere noted this would mean the employee must take the money out when the employee terminates employment with the city. Mayor Grant asked if the Commission would like to give the employees the opportunity to keep their money in the fund upon retirement. Vice Mayor Katz asked if the Unions agreed to the language. Ms. LaVerriere replied this would be subject to bargaining. The preliminary discussion yes, formally bargained no. Vice Mayor Katz stated this item has been discussed, the City was acting in good faith and the belief these are the provisions, which are likely to be agreed to. Attorney Cherof read from the ordinance "agreed to and incorporated into the collective barging agreements that are being negotiated or the waiver by the unions, of the need to negotiation those into the contracts" either would satisfy the requirement of the ordinance. The drop provision does not take affect for those bargaining units. Ms. LaVerriere stated this still needed agreement from the unions. City Clerk Gibson called the roll. Vote was 5-0 Mayor Grant discussed branding of the new downtown; also, he has been receiving comments from FPL regarding underground wiring. Requested staff to reach out to see what was going on. Commissioner Romelus asked if there was a ribbing cutting for Sara Sims. Ms. LaVerriere stated the ribbon cutting would be November 9, 2019 in conjunction with Ocean Breeze East. 13. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS A. Quarterly Census updates by Laura Lansburgh, Marketing Manager: December 17, 2019 March 17, 2019 B. City Commission to discuss special event permit policy for Sara Sims Park October 15, 2019 22 Meeting Minutes City Commission Boynton Beach, FL October 1, 2019 14. ADJOURNMENT Motion There being no further business to discuss, Commissioner Romelus moved to adjourn. Commissioner Penserga seconded the motion that unanimously passed. The meeting adjourned at 8:59p.m. CI : •Y ON ).- - Steven B. ran Were "omrrfissi. • - - jM 'ray Commiss • - - hristina Romelus Commi,47511111117.-•nserga ATTEST • 4/�. /_. ,ota_L ice_ 1471. a C stal Gibson, MMC City ClerkeoYN Aar eene er Nieves Deputy City Clerk 23 r ir I3f do/6/ 1.JPg Page 1 of 1 It (----"------ _ r No Pet Left Behind Firefighter Jen Leary uses her lifesaving skills to protect furry family members. I III I III I I III III III III I III II III VIII VIII I I1111111111111111IIIIIIII II IIII III II1111111111111 VIII BY ELISSA SANCI ON A COLD MORNING IN 2015, FIRST RESPONDER JEN LEARY ARRIVED on the scene of a house fire in West Philadelphia.While firefighters rushed to rescue anyone still inside the building and contain the fast- moving fire,Jen had something else on her mind:the residents'pets. Jen is the founder of Red Paw Emergency Relief Team,the country's first emergency-response group dedicated to rescuing animals in residential disasters.That morning,wearing traditional firefighter gear emblazoned with the organization's signature red-paw logo,she rescued a greyhound mix named Milo from an upstairs bedroom.After a tip from a neighbor,she went back in to save three cats.By the end of the morning,Jen and `fir ► 4= another Red Paw volunteer had rescued : . .,. ,.w ., . : several more pets. d rgsc SFr hi.- The idea for Red Paw came from Jen's - 40001 experience as a Philadelphia firefighter. dog ridesed During her shifts,she often had to leave shotgun. ,-- pets behind during residential disasters. L. °"� "The firefighters and medics,the Red `" Cross,and the Salvation Army are there for the people,"says Jen,who grew up with In an pets and now owns a dog and four cats. emergency, "But no one was focusing on the pets." we'll.be there In 2011,Jen set out to change that.She for the pets." assembled a team of trained firefighters and dispatchers who work 24 hours a day, 365 days a year,in 12-hour shifts.The group includes a mix of full-time and part-time employees and volunteers. When a residential emergency such as a fire, gas leak,or building collapse occurs,the Philadelphia Fire Department sends a text message to a Red Paw t' dispatcher.On the scene,Red Ili EJ i'I�_ pen with Paw responders conduct search I it y , a rescued and rescue operations for ',11 I �' ,'', , cat. , pets and transport any injured animals to a veterinary hospital. + &," In 2018,Red Paw first responders I '.� -jilt rescued nearly 1,000 pets, Nr.x 4,, including cats, dogs, turtles, c i - 1 rabbits,and even tarantulas. t _ Says Jen: "Residents can rest assured that if there's a fire,their •!,,:,,,t i pets will be in good hands." sof ti N.% For details,visit redpaw emergencyreliefteam.org. L, WOMANSDAYMAGAZINE19 NOVEMBER 2019 67 ' First Foremost EDUCATION NEWS AND TRENDS. Experienced Teachers Key to included in the study,of varying sizes and locations,all with at least 200 `Beating the Odds' African American or Hispanic students,and at least 200 white students. Experienced teachers are the common factor among 156 A lack of experienced,well California school districts where black and Hispanic students,as qualified teachers impacts students. well as white students,are beating the odds and scoring higher LPI found that for every 10 percent than expected on tests that measure higher-level thinking skills, increase in the percentage of teach- according to new research from the Learning Policy Institute(LPI). ers holding substandard credentials, "The research finds that providing students with qualified,fully the average achievement of students prepared teachers is a critical component for raising student achieve- of color is lower,on average,by al- ment;"said Anne Podolsky,lead author of"California's Positive Outliers: most.10 standard deviation.For white Districts Beating the Odds" students,every 10 percent increase is These findings are consistent with other research that points to associated with achievement that is the importance of a qualified,experienced teacher,and adds nearly.07 standard deviations lower. to the urgency around a growing U.S.teacher shortage, •• "For whatever reason, especially in high-poverty districts. • ••• those districts with In its research,LPI controlled for many factors ••••••• higher proportions that often impact student achievement,such as ••• of under-prepared household income and whether students'par- ••• teachers have ents have college degrees.Achievement was ••• lower achieve- gauged using California standardized test menta'says results.More than 400 school districts were "The research finds that providing Podolsky."We students with qualified,fully can't prove a prepared teachers is a critical causal relation- >, '. shi it could be ;r, component for raising student ship it -- thatyou maybe �, :.�� achievement. less prepared to -ANNE PODOLSKY work with students, /......), or it could be several things.If a district has a • • I. • tot of under-prepared teach- ers,there could be many things .; going on in that district" F. :. .. The report notes that"the places ,`:•; that are difficult for teachers to work in and students to learn in may feel _ they need to hire more teachers on substandard credentials because relatively few teachers want to work in the district" . t - . ,,r 46....4000400.00., . i . , I 10 PHOTO:®2015 NEA/MOSES MITCHELL PHOTOGRAPHY I \1 39 For the birds Populations are crashing, but we can mitigate the losses R .\.. -�, ,. S . , �. ! S I'-* N„ ..� l. it '... ' )\1/4k ——--r s.- r k • "a..-. . . v-.i -ry r r .'. . Yt --, . z a say •Iii-' . ‘...: ._..ifill•—!....tailliiigithillige* - ' ' The type of trees and shrubs you choose can also make a big difference to birds. Shown is a cedar waxwing eating a chokeberry. (Jane Gamble/Washington Post photos) -.4 L.. a � w 4,3;ir\ "ha i 'k �`J 4 ,} 16.1 .. - '''*A N. =� : * .g __ �s ,I o-, - _ Fm I * 1 .. r • f +-,n,' 4..a. ,..,,S. ..f. - i , +. ., -, • —44,4;, b-.4-- tic '? y » +k '4 ' at X#` •T 4 v,, ' -)-µfir f �.} ' :5.;..;,:.;4':...77;.."1::::: y4, a �'.. r ✓Yh�C.SA.x s ve i. s li" :;. it z ett r. v s )11 liii l • S. • A Baltimore oriole has a snack on an American sycamore. BY ADRIAN HIGGINS THE WASHINGTON POST The arrival of fall weather has gardeners thinking about winter, a period of retreat in the garden but not of death. spoc, The plants' withdrawal from the cold invites close examination of the leafless world. But if you need something beyond the display of holly berries, the smooth silver bark and latent buds of the magnolia, or the black silhouette of an old walnut tree, there is another, more vivid reminder that life goes on outdoors. We have the birds. Or do we? A study by ornithologists and other scientists released last month told us bird populations have crashed. Since 1970, the United States and Canada have lost nearly 3 billion, close to 3o% fewer individuals. The losses are across habitats and species, though hardest hit are birds that inhabit the grasslands from Texas north into the Canadian prairie. The suspected causes? Habitat loss, more intensive agriculture and greater use of pesticides that kill the insects birds eat. For those of us who see the garden not just as a living expression of beauty but a place where we embrace nature, the news is a reminder that we have some power to mitigate this distressing loss. First and foremost, keep the cat indoors. Ask your neighbor to do the same. Cat predation is a major cause of bird mortality, according to the American Bird Conservancy. This is not just from pets but all the alley cats out there, themselves the product of people throwing unwanted, unsterilized felines to the four winds. The cats are the instrument of bird death, but we are the cause. Songbirds also die in large numbers by flying into windows. If this is a problem where you live, you can attach decals to your glazing. Another tactic is not to use pesticides, even sprays against mosquitoes, a pest best countered by removing sources of standing water, especially in the spring. You might think the greatest step you can take for the birds is to feed them. This is, after all, the time of year our thoughts turn to nourishing birds through the chillier months ahead. Do the birds need this buffet? Perhaps not, but bird feed can help at key moments in the year, in April and May and September and October, when migrating birds need all the fuel they can get. "These movements mean a high expenditure of energy for what are often tiny animals," said Emma Greig, program leader of the Cornell Lab of Ornithology's Project Feeder Watch. "To have places along the way for them to rest and feed — that's really important." The other moment is in winter during periods of extreme cold. These sudden Arctic blasts can lead to a lot of bird death. Suet blocks work for insect-feeding birds "and are used by a wide variety of species," Greig said. "They're ideal for cold weather, the time when bird feeders actually enhance survival of some species." The greatest value of bird feeding is to bring wild birds in proximity to us, so we can develop an affinity for them. Not all mixes are equal; striped sunflower, for example, is not favored by as many bird species as black-oil sunflower or hulled or chipped sunflowers, according to a three-year study, Project Wildbird. Project FeederWatch (feederwatch.org) has put together an infographic on common feeder birds and what their preferences are. Placement of feeders can be important — near shrub cover, but not where a stalking cat can hide, and close to a window, which will actually minimize window-strikes when birds seek cover from a swooping hawk, Greig said. If you really want to help birds, though, the way to do it is to mindfully develop your garden as a habitat where birds can find what they need to nest and raise young: food, cover and water year-round. One element of this is to not use pesticides. Another is to reduce the area of lawn in favor of bird-friendly plants. At the Audubon Naturalist Society's 40-acre Woodend Nature Sanctuary in Chevy Chase, Maryland, various projects in recent years have been implemented to improve avian habitats. A signal project is the conversion of a quarter-acre field of orchard grass into a native plant meadow of grasses and wildflowers. This draws and harbors insects, which many birds need to feed themselves and their young. Another display is the Blair Native Plant Garden, which shows garden-worthy plants found in the Appalachian Mountains, the piedmont and the coastal plain. Another approach is to layer plantings — ground covers, shrubs, trees — in a way that mimics natural areas and provides birds with the undergrowth they need, said Alison Pearce, the society's director of restoration. In such gardens, expect to see wood thrushes and eastern towhees. The society has put together a guide for homeowners to build their own habitats at ANShome.org. Pearce encourages interested individuals to visit the sanctuary. The type of trees and shrubs you choose can also make a big difference to birds. Winterberries, American hollies and other ilex provide important sources of winter berries. I used to have a February flock of cedar waxwings on my hollies; later the same trees drew plundering flocks of robins. In the dead of winter, the robins provided their own form of vital entertainment but also a sense that nothing is static in the garden, that one season is always foreshadowing the next. Gardening tip: Compost piles that have dried out will stop decomposing. Rake out materials and mix with fresh, chopped yard waste and shredded leaves. Return the contents to the pile and soak the materials. Keep the pile from getting waterlogged. Evenly moist is the way to go. 4.0 A18 Suuuay,September 22,2019 The Palm Beach Post REAL NEWS STARTS HERE v;\Where have all of the wild birds gone? By Seth Borenstein and Not all bird popula- you lose the birds from Christina Larson The Bird numbers on the decline across North America tions are shrinking. For that field,"he said. "We Associated Press A newly released comprehensive study estimates a 29 percent loss in overall wild bird counts since the 1970s. example, bluebirds are know that so many things Introduced Aerial increasing,mostly because are killing birds in large WASHINGTON — species Shorebirds Landbirds Waterbeds Waterfowl insectivor s people have worked hard numbers, like cats and - North America's skies to get their numbers up. windows." are lonelier and quieter as Rosenberg, a bird- Experts say habitat loss nearly 3 billion fewer wildwatcher since he was was the No. 1 reason for birds soar in the air than *ex 3, has seen this first- birdloss.A 2o15 study said in 197o,a comprehensive hand over more than cats kill 2.6 billion birds study shows. 9 `4 t.t ° � 60 years. When he was each year in the United The new study focuses 56 younger, there would be States and Canada,while on the drop in sheer "invasions" of evening window collisions kill numbers of birds, not „P grosbeaks that his father another 624 million and extinctions. The bird — would take him to see in cars another 214 million. population in the United A new study finds there are nearly 3 billion fewer wild birds flying in North American Upstate New York with That's why people can States and Canada was• skies than in 1970.[THE ASSOCIATED PRESS] 200 to 300 birds around do their part by keep- probably around 10.1 bil- one feeder.Now,he said, ing cats indoors,treating lion nearly half a century That's not all species,but which she wasn't part of, of the list for losses, as people get excited when their home windows to ago and has fallen 29% more than three-quarters highlights an important were many other spar- they see 10 grosbeaks. reduce the likelihood to about 7.2 billion birds, of them.And most of the problem,she said. rows. The population The re se arch only that birds will crash into according to a study missed species are quite "If you came out of your of eastern meadowlarks covered wild birds, not them,stopping pesticide in Thursday's journal rare,Rosenberg said. house one morning and has shriveled by more domesticated ones such and insecticide use at Science. Using weather radar noticed that a third of all than three-quarters with as chickens. home and buying coffee "People need to pay data, which captures the houses in your neigh- the western meadow- Rosenberg's study grown on farms with attention to the birds flocks of migrating birds, borhood were empty, lark nearly as hard hit. didn't go into what's forest-like habitat, said aroundthembecausethey is anew method,he said. you'd rightly conclude Bobwhite quail numbers making wild birds dwin- Sara Hallager,bird cura- are slowly disappearing," "This is a landmark that something threat- are down 80%,Rosenberg dle away,but he pointed tor at the Smithsonian said study lead author paper. It's put numbers ening was going on," said. to past studies that blame Institution. Kenneth Rosenberg, a to everyone's fears about Rubega said in an email. Grassland birds in gen- habitat loss, cats and "We can reverse that Cornell University con- what's going on," said "3 billion of our neigh- eralarelessthanhalfwhat windows. trend,"Hallagersaid."We servation scientist. "One Joel Cracraft, curator- bors,the ones who eat the they used to be,he said. "Every field you lose, can turn the tide." of the scary things about in-charge for ornithology bugs that destroy our food , —_ the results is that it is of the American Museum plants and carry diseases happening right under our of Natural History, who like equine encephali- eyes.We might not even wasn't part of the study. tis, are gone. I think we notice it until it's too late." "It's even more stark all ought to think that's Rosenberg and col- than what many of us threatening." leagues projected might have guessed," Some of the most population data using Cracraft said. common and recognizable weather radar, 13 differ- Every year University of birds are taking the biggest ent bird surveys going Connecticut's Margaret hits,even though they are back to 197o and corn- Rubega, the state orni- not near disappearing yet, puter modeling to come up thologist,gets calls from Rosenberg said. withtrendsfor529species people noticing fewer The common house of North American birds. birds. And this study, sparrow was at the top