Agenda 09-05-241.Call to Order
2.Pledge of Allegiance
3.Roll Call
4.Agenda Approval
5.Public Comment
6.Consent
A.CRA Advisory Board Meeting Minutes - August 1, 2024
7.Assignments
A.Pending Assignment No. 1 - Discussion and Consideration of New Assignments
from the CRA Board assigned at the February 13, 2024 CRA Monthly Board Meeting
B.Pending Assignment No. 2 - Discussion and Consideration of New Assignments
from the CRA Board assigned at the February 13, 2024 CRA Monthly Board Meeting
Regarding Property Acquisition
C.Reports on Pending Assignments
8.CRA Board Items for CRA Advisory Board Review and Recommendations
A.Old Business No. 1 - Discussion and Consideration of Fiscal Year 2024-2025 Project
Fund Budget
B.New Business No. 1 - Consideration of Registration and Travel Expenses to Attend
the Florida Redevelopment Association (FRA) 2024 Annual Conference on October
22-25, 2024 in Tampa, FL
CRA Advisory Board Meeting
Thursday, September 5, 2024 - 6:30 PM
City Hall Chambers, 100 E. Ocean Avenue
561-737-3256
AGENDA
Revised 09/03/2024 (as to Meeting Location Only)
A. Additions, Deletions, Corrections to the Agenda
B. Adoption of Agenda
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9.Future Agenda Items
10.Adjournment
NOTICE
THE CRA SHALL FURNISH APPROPRIATE AUXILIARY AIDS AND SERVICES WHERE NECESSARY TO AFFORD AN
INDIVIDUAL WITH A DISABILITY AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY TO PARTICIPATE IN AND ENJOY THE BENEFITS OF A
SERVICE, PROGRAM OR ACTIVITY CONDUCTED BY THE CRA. PLEASE CONTACT THE CRA, (561) 737-3256, AT
LEAST 48 HOURS PRIOR TO THE PROGRAM OR ACTIVITY IN ORDER FOR THE CRA TO REASONABLY
ACCOMMODATE YOUR REQUEST.
ADDITIONAL AGENDA ITEMS MAY BE ADDED SUBSEQUENT TO THE PUBLICATION OF THE AGENDA ON THE CRA'S
WEBSITE. INFORMATION REGARDING ITEMS ADDED TO THE AGENDA AFTER IT IS PUBLISHED ON THE CRA'S
WEBSITE CAN BE OBTAINED FROM THE CRA OFFICE.
2
•Attachment I - August 1, 2024 CRA Advisory Board Meeting Minutes
CRA ADVISORY BOARD MEETING OF: September 5, 2024
CONSENT
AGENDA ITEM 6.A
SUBJECT:
CRA Advisory Board Meeting Minutes - August 1, 2024
SUMMARY:
See attached minutes.
CRAB RECOMMENDATION:
Approve the August 1, 2024 CRA Advisory Board meeting minutes.
ATTACHMENTS:
Description
3
1
CRA Advisory Board Meeting
Thursday, August 1, 2024 - 6:30 PM
Community Room 115, 100 E. Ocean Avenue
561-737-3256
1. Call to Order
Acting Chair McQuire called the meeting to order at 6:36 PM.
2. Pledge of Allegiance
Acting Chair McQuire asked the board to stand for the Pledge of Allegiance.
3. Roll Call
Members Present:
Naomi Cobb (Chair) [Arrived 6:54 PM]
Courtlandt McQuire (Vice Chair)
Lesha Roundtree
Chevette Gadson
Alexandria Lopresto
Tom Ramiccio
Staff:
Bonnie Nicklien, Grants & Project Manager
Timothy Tack, Acting CRA Executive Director
Other:
Susan Oyer, Resident
Karen Cruitt, Prototype Inc.
4. Agenda Approval
A. Additions, Deletions, Corrections to the Agenda
None.
B. Adoption of Agenda
Motion:
Mr. Ramiccio moved to adopt the agenda. Ms. Lopresto seconded the motion. In a
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voice vote, the motion passed unanimously.
5. Public Comment
Ms. Susan Oyer first thanked the Board for all the good work. Additionally, she noted
very little attention was paid to the south CRA district, which included blighted plazas.
She also spoke about The Pierce and maintenance of the historic sign.
6. Consent
A. CRA Advisory Board Meeting Minutes – July 8, 2024
Motion:
Ms. Roundtree moved to approve the July 8, 2024, minutes. Ms. Lopresto seconded the
motion. In a voice vote, the motion passed unanimously.
7. Assignments
A. Pending Assignment No. 1 - Discussion and Consideration of New
Assignments from the CRA Board assigned at the February 13, 2024, CRA
Monthly Board Meeting
Mr. Tack summarized the July 8 meeting discussion and provided updates. He reviewed
the Cultural District boundaries and noted Town Square comprised almost half of the
area. He discussed the plans for redevelopment of the area.
Ms. Lopresto recalled that the discussion emphasized making the area more walkable
and enhancing the landscaping. Additionally, there was talk of introducing a small grocery
store. She also highlighted the importance of incorporating a bike lane and pedestrian
safety.
Ms. Roundtree recommended a gateway into the Ocean Avenue downtown to delineate
the district. Mr. Tack noted The Villages would incorporate an artistic feature in the park
area.
Ms. Roundtree emphasized the importance of people knowing when they enter the
Cultural Arts District. She suggested ideas such as painting the road, pavers, or lighting
around the new foliage. Additionally, she recommended festivity during the holiday
season. Ms. Roundtree said an interactive water feature would be great.
Chair Cobb arrived at 6:54 p.m.
Mr. Ramiccio stated that the Cultural Arts District should be a destination and agreed
with Ms. Roundtree on the need to create a distinct identity. He emphasized the
importance of street-level activation and expressed disappointment with the decision
regarding the Magnuson House. Mr. Ramiccio suggested that the zoning should be
designated as a Downtown Destination District, with the TOD classification eliminated.
He also addressed transit and residential unit requirements, expressing a desire for the
area to be more pedestrian-friendly as an entertainment, restaurant, and destination
district.
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Chair Cobb agreed with the importance of walkability and emphasized an opportunity to
turn things around. She supported the ideas expressed by Ms. Roundtree and Mr.
Rammicio. Chair Cobb also spoke about the development on the west and asked for
consideration on how to attract residents in the west to travel east.
Acting Chair McQuire supported the ideas of gateway, splash pad, and additional ideas
expressed by Board members. He referenced the hotel site and Villages North and
Villages South and asked about increased height. Mr. Tack noted it can be maximized
with the Live Local Act.
Acting Chair McQuire suggested the most impact would be at the hotel and historical
sites. He questioned whether historical house should be located in the area.
Ms. Lopresto inquired whether a bid had been received for the hotel site. Mr. Tack stated
he was unaware of any discussions the City has had with developers.
Mr. Ramiccio suggested the Magnusson House and Anderson House could be combined
into one parcel and consider redevelopment such as a bed and breakfast or café.
Additionally, he stated live entertainment and events would attract visitors as well. He
reiterated his suggestion to change the zoning.
Acting Chair McQuire emphasized the interest to have both commercial and retail, as
well as activations. He asked about the retail square footage. Mr. Tack stated everything
fronting Boynton Beach Boulevard and Ocean would be commercial retail.
Discussion ensued regarding a parking structure, workforce units, and a satellite police
station.
Chair Cobb brought attention to the necessity of a public safety strategy, noting the
issues occurring in District 3. She recommended community policing. Mr. Tack clarified
the CRA cannot fund fire and only fund innovative policing.
Ms. Gadson agreed with Ms. Roundtree’s suggestion regarding creative branding for the
district. She emphasized the need for a compelling draw to the area and mentioned the
potential benefits of hosting festivals.
Mr. Tack encouraged the Board to consider a dependent district or Chamber of
Commerce to encourage additional businesses in the corridor.
Acting Chair McQuire welcomed public comments.
Ms. Susan Oyer shared several points of concern and insight. She highlighted that the
Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) was considering implementing East to
West trams. Despite the district hosting the second-largest number of events in the
county, these events are not adequately marketed. She also noted that The Villages,
which was previously her family’s property, was significantly overhyped. Ms. Oyer
suggested a review of the need for excessive building height, recommending a limit of 8-
10 stories rather than allowing new development to overshadow 1-2 story buildings. She
emphasized that the street was already recognized as the Avenue of the Arts and
suggested that the CRA could play a role in utilizing the art currently in storage.
Additionally, she mentioned that approved splash pads and the Kanga art project had
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fallen through.
Acting Chair McQuire recapped the following recommendations from the Board:
• Cultural District needs a gateway to create a sense of arrival
• Increase activation throughout the corridor (Splash pad, incorporation of more
family interactions)
• Better lighting
• Wayfinding and signage for the district
• Foliage and trees (palm trees; flowers)
• Designate this as a unique district within Boynton Beach (Ocean Ave - different
pavers)
• Public safety
• Market and services to support the increased development and density
• Identify the cultural district as a destination district
• Opportunities for increased connectivity from western Boynton Beach and
possible incorporation of access to the tri-rail system
• Opportunities to preserve historic buildings for possible relocation
• Preservation of and increased amount of art component throughout the corridor
Motion:
Ms. Lopresto moved to discuss the Industrial District at the next meeting. Ms. Cobb
seconded the motion. In a voice vote, the motion passed unanimously.
B. Pending Assignment No. 2 - Discussion and Consideration of New
Assignments from the CRA Board assigned at the February 13, 2024 CRA
Monthly Board Meeting Regarding Property Acquisition
None.
C. Reports on Pending Assignments
None.
D. New Assignments
None.
8. CRA Board Items for CRA Advisory Board Review and Recommendations
A. Old Business
None.
B. New Business
Acting Chair McQuire expressed gratitude to the staff for a successful Night Market,
which featured over 85 total vendors, 20 plus food trucks and bars, with 15 of those
businesses from CRA area, and family-friendly events. Mr. Tack noted that the primary
goal of the event is to highlight and support local businesses.
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9. Future Agenda Items
Ms. Lopresto suggested compiling all key takeaways from each district for a high-level
review. Mr. Tack confirmed that these would be included in the Board’s report.
Chair Cobb thanked Mr. Tack and a representative from Circuit for attending a community
meeting at the Carolyn Sims Center to better educate the senior community on the
opportunity.
10. Adjournment
There being no further business to discuss, the meeting was adjourned at 8:15 PM.
NOTICE
THE CRA SHALL FURNISH APPROPRIATE AUXILIARY AIDS AND SERVICES WHERE NECESSARY TO AFFORD AN
INDIVIDUAL WITH A DISABILITY AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY TO PARTICIPATE IN AND ENJOY THE BENEFITS OF A
SERVICE, PROGRAM OR ACTIVITY CONDUCTED BY THE CRA. PLEASE CONTACT THE CRA, (561) 737-3256, AT LEAST
48 HOURS PRIOR TO THE PROGRAM OR ACTIVITY IN ORDER FOR THE CRA TO REASONABLY ACCOMMODATE
YOUR REQUEST. ADDITIONAL AGENDA ITEMS MAY BE ADDED SUBSEQUENT TO THE PUBLICATION OF THE
AGENDA ON THE CRA'S WEBSITE. INFORMATION REGARDING ITEMS ADDED TO THE AGENDA AFTER IT IS
PUBLISHED ON THE CRA'S WEBSITE CAN BE OBTAINED FROM THE CRA OFFICE.
8
CRA ADVISORY BOARD MEETING OF: September 5, 2024
ASSIGNMENTS
AGENDA ITEM 7.A
SUBJECT:
Pending Assignment No. 1 - Discussion and Consideration of New Assignments from the CRA
Board assigned at the February 13, 2024 CRA Monthly Board Meeting
SUMMARY:
At the CRA Board Meeting on February 13, 2024, the CRA Board approved the following
tasks be assigned to the CRA Advisory Board (CRAB):
1. Initiate the steps to revise the 2016 CRA Plan,
A. Review the existing CRA plan, and
B. Incorporate both the grocery store and public parking as part of that plan.
2. Look for ways that are above and beyond the normal City functions to beautify the area
within the CRA District (cannot be in replacement of normal COBB duties and needs to be
above and beyond).
3. Investigate means to acquire a grocery store in the Heart of Boynton.
4. Identify potential locations for a Public Parking Garage preferably along Ocean Avenue.
When matters are assigned to the CRAB Board, reliance on staff should be minimized to the
extent possible. Individual members of CRAB may not assign work to the CRA or City staff
members. Research by the members of the Advisory Board should be done independently
and with minimal support from the CRA or City staff.
Once the assignment is complete and the CRAB is ready to present a report to the CRA or
City Commission, the CRAB Board shall submit their report to CRA staff or the City Clerk for
publishing on the next available agenda.
At the August 1, 2024 meeting, the CRAB Board discussed the Cultural District section of the
2016 CRA Plan and decided on key points to include in their report to the CRA Board:
Cultural District needs a gateway to create a sense of arrival
Increase activation throughout the corridor (Splash pad, incorporation of more family
interactions)
Better lighting
Wayfinding and signage for the district
9
•Attachment I - 2016 Redevelopment Plan
Foliage and trees (palm trees; flowers)
Designate this as a unique district within Boynton Beach (Ocean Ave - different pavers)
Public safety
Market and services to support the increased development and density
Identify the cultural district as a destination district
Opportunities for increased connectivity from western Boynton Beach and possible
incorporation of access to the tri-rail system
Opportunities to preserve historic buildings for possible relocation
The CRAB Board will review the Industrial District section of the 2016 CRA Plan and will bring
their ideas and suggestions to the September meeting.
All other assignments were moved to Pending Assignments, no additional action was taken at
the August Meeting.
FISCAL IMPACT:
To be determined.
CRA PLAN/PROJECT/PROGRAM:
2016 Boynton Beach Community Redevelopment Plan
CRAB RECOMMENDATION:
To be determined.
ATTACHMENTS:
Description
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CRA ADVISORY BOARD MEETING OF: September 5, 2024
CRA BOARD ITEMS FOR CRA ADVISORY BOARD REVIEW AND RECOMMENDATIONS
AGENDA ITEM 8.A
SUBJECT:
Old Business No. 1 - Discussion and Consideration of Fiscal Year 2024-2025 Project Fund
Budget
SUMMARY:
The Boynton Beach CRA is a quasi-governmental, Special District operating under Title XI,
Chapter 163, Part III of the Florida Statutes. The agency's annual financial operations run on a
fiscal calendar beginning on October 1st and ending on September 30th of each year. The
CRA does not obtain its revenue from charging an additional tax. The CRA receives its annual
funding based on a percentage share of the existing ad-valorem property taxes paid to the
City of Boynton Beach and Palm Beach County.
The CRA’s annual budget is comprised of three accounting funds:
1. The General Fund which contains the administrative, general operation, insurances,
property maintenance and CRA/CRAB and marina related items;
2. The Debt Service Fund which contains the CRA’s financial debt obligations and
encumbrances such as bond repayments and developer ’s tax increment funding
agreements; and,
3. The Project Fund which contains all of the capital projects, development projects or
initiatives, property acquisitions, local business grant programs or promotional events, as
well as eligible innovative policing activities such as the Neighborhood Officer Program.
At this first CRA budget meeting, the Board's Fiscal Year 2024-2025 Project Fund budget
allocation discussion will assist in identifying the priority projects for the upcoming fiscal year
as well as deciding what funding amounts to provide to each proposed Project (see
Attachment I). The Project Fund and overall budget breakdown will identify bond debt
obligations, existing tax increment revenue funding agreements obligations and available
funding for priority projects, programs or funding requests such as but not limited to the
Neighborhood Officer Police Program, District Improvement Projects, Business Development
and Promotional Events and Marketing. The number presented is an estimate. The final
numbers from the Property Appraiser's Office have not been received.
The CRA's Fiscal Year 2024-2025 Budget discussion will occur at CRA Board’s September
10, 2024 meeting.
Final approval and adoption of the CRA’s annual budget for Fiscal Year 2024-2025 by the
Boynton Beach City Commission is anticipated to occur at their September 12, 2024 meeting.
253
•Attachment I - Fiscal Year 2024-2025 Proposed Budget
FISCAL IMPACT:
To be determined based on Board discussion and action.
CRA PLAN/PROJECT/PROGRAM:
2016 Boynton Beach Community Redevelopment Plan
CRA BOARD OPTIONS:
To be determined by CRA Board based on discussion and direction.
ATTACHMENTS:
Description
254
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Category FY 2024 QTY FY 2025 Notes
Personnel
Officer Salaries & Incentives * 350,913 4 442,098 Salary, Education Incentive
Officer Benefits-Pension 196,747 4 244,598 Pension
Officer Benefits 66,905 4 82,116 Healthcare, Dental, Vision, FICA
Officer Overtime 40,000 4 40,000
Total Personnel Costs $ 654,565 $ 808,812
Operating Expenses
Cell Phones Service Plan 3,000 4 3,500 Cell Phones for CRA Officers
Office Supplies / Misc Supplies 2,500 2,500 Office Supplies (incl printer/ copier)
Office Electric, Cable/ Internet, water/sewage 12,000 12 12,000 Monthly Operating Cost
Office Space Monthly Maintenance 2,000 12 2,000 AC Filters/Repairs etc.
Office Cleaning 2,000 12 2,000 City Cleaning Crew
Uniform 2,250 4 2,500 uniforms,belts
Community Events/Promotions 5,000 1 6,000 Youth Programs
Training 8,000 4 8,500 CPTED, STEP academy
Total Operating Expense $ 36,750 $ 39,000
Equipment
Misc. Equipment - As needed 3,000 1 4,000 Misc. Equipment
Volcanic 2024 Approach Patrol Bike 2 3,598
Volcanic Frame Bike Patrol Bags 4 716
Niterider Digital Patrol LED Police Bike Liight 4 2,000
Niterider Police Tail Light 4 280
Total Equipment Costs $ 3,000 $ 10,594
Total Proposed Program Expenses $ 694,315 $ 858,406
FY 2025 ILA Amount 858,406$
NOTE: All amounts provided by Police Department with exception of Contingency and ILA amount for FY 2024-2025
*Salary and Benefits are subject to change as a result of an ongoing contract renegotiation.
FY 2025 COMPREHENSIVE ANNUAL BUDGET- CRA NEIGHBORHOOD POLICING PROGRAM
257
BUSINESS PROMOTIONS TENATIVE DATES 2024/2025
BUDGET
HOLIDAY LIGHT INSTALLATION December 2024
Dewey Park 100 NE 4th Street $13,000
Boynton Harbor Marina 735 Casa Loma Blvd $13,950
100 NE 4th Street & 735 Casa Loma Blvd.Total Holiday Light Installation $26,950
HOLIDAY BOAT PARADE Friday, December 13, 2024
735 Casa Loma Boulevard
Total Holiday Boat Parade $40,000
BOYNTON BEACH SPRING MARKET Saturday, March 22, 2025
Total Boynton Beach Spring Market $65,000
ROCK THE PLAZA
Ocean Palm Plaza - 1600 N, Federal Highway Saturday, April 26, 2025 $30,000
Ocean Plaza - 640 East Ocean Avenue Saturday, May 17, 2025 $30,000
Heart of Boynton Shops - 118 E. MLK Jr. Blvd.TBD $30,000
One Boynton - 1351 S. Federal Highway Thursday, June 26, 2025 $30,000
Total Rock the Plaza $120,000
ROCK THE MARINA & MARINA MONTH Saturday, June 7, 2025
120 E. Ocean Avenue
Total Rock the Marina $40,000
BOYNTON BEACH NIGHT MARKET Friday, July 25, 2025 & Saturday, July 26, 2025
120 E. Ocean Avenue
Total Boynton Beach Night Market $80,000
ROCK THE BLOCK Saturday, August 30, 2025
100 NE 4th Street
Total Rock the Block $40,000
BON APPETIT BOYNTON BEACH -
RESTAURANT MONTH September 2025
Total Restaurant Month $58,000
EQUIPMENT & SUPPORT $100,000
RIBBON CUTTING/GROUND BREAKINGS $15,000
TOTAL COST OF BUSINESS
PROMOTIONS $584,950
BOYNTON BEACH CRA
FY 2024 - 2025
BUSINESS PROMOTIONS BUDGET - 02-58500-480
258
EVENTS DATE 2024/2025
BUDGET ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
BOYNTON BEACH BUCKS
A business promotional program to provide economic
support to local businesses through targeted
campaigns that will be promoted both digitally and in-
person at events.
Budget is based off of continuing to mange
this program in-house and adding a postal
and digital aspect. Funds would be used for
actual reimbursement to businesses, paid
digital/print ads, postage, supplies, and
printing.
Total Boynton Beach Bucks $50,000
PROMOTIONAL VIDEOS Videos to promote various BBCRA projects and
initiatives - Project Spotlights, Bon Appetit Boynton
Beach, Business Development Videos,Tutorial Videos
for Economic Development Toolkit
Budget would include the costs of
videography, actors, industry experts (if
needed), supplies/materials, and purchases
from businesses as needed.
Total Promotional Videos $50,000
PROMOTIONAL PHOTOS
Photos to capture BBCRA projects and initiatives,
business features, grand openings, etc.
Budget would include the costs of
photographers, actors, supplies/materials,
and purchases from businesses as needed.
Total Promotional Photos $15,000
BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT WORKSHOPS Various business development workshops to cover
various topics, such as: Strategic planning, Growth &
Expansion, Business Plan Overview, Finance &
Accounting, Marketing Strategy, Operations
Management, Diversity & Inclusion, Interpersonal Skills
for Success, Grant Writing - Minority & Female Owned
Businesses, Local Resources, Time & Stress
Management, Leadership & Hiring
Budget would inlude costs for
speakers/industry experts, marketing, and
purchases from businesses for special
features.
Total Business Development Workshops $50,000
FY 2023 - 2024 $165,000
ROLLOVER
TOTAL COST OF MARKETING ►$165,000
BOYNTON BEACH CRA
FY 2024-2025
BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT BUDGET - 02-58400-445
259
•Attachment I - 2024 FRA Annual Conference Program
CRA ADVISORY BOARD MEETING OF: September 5, 2024
CRA BOARD ITEMS FOR CRA ADVISORY BOARD REVIEW AND RECOMMENDATIONS
AGENDA ITEM 8.B
SUBJECT:
New Business No. 1 - Consideration of Registration and Travel Expenses to Attend the Florida
Redevelopment Association (FRA) 2024 Annual Conference on October 22-25, 2024 in
Tampa, FL
SUMMARY:
The Florida Redevelopment Association (FRA) is our agency's statewide professional
organization operating under the Florida League of Cities. This year's annual conference will
be held on October 22-25, 2024, at the Marriott Water Street Hotel in Tampa, FL. The
conference provides valuable information to staff and board members on CRA related issues,
best practices, programs and legislative updates. The 2024 conference program is provided
as Attachment I.
Registration information is available on the FRA's website: https://redevelopment.net/2024-
annual-conference/
In summary, the conference registration is $395/member plus $50/tour until October 4th.
Rates increase on registrations placed after October 4th. The hotel is $249/night and the last
day to reserve the hotel group block is September 20th. The is also an optional CRA Board
Training Course available for $50/member.
CRA Advisory Board Member Attendance Policy :
The CRA Board established a policy during Fiscal Year 2016-2017 that only two members of
the CRAB are permitted to attend the FRA Annual Conference per fiscal year and the CRA will
only reimburse the cost of the conference registration fee and hotel (see Attachment II).
As supported by the CRA Board at the August 13, 2024 meeting, the CRA Advisory Board will
nominate up to two attendees at their September 5, 2024, Advisory Board meeting.
FISCAL IMPACT:
FY 2024-2025 Budget, General Fund, Line Item 01-51010-225 : $29,000
CRAB RECOMMENDATION:
CRAB Board member attendance to be determined based on discussion.
ATTACHMENTS:
Description
260
•Attachment II - August 2017 CRA Board Minutes
261
REGISTRATION INFORMATION
The 2024 Florida Redevelopment Association Annual Conference will be held on October 22-25, 2024,
at the Tampa Marriott Water Street in Tampa.
The conference is an opportunity for redevelopment professionals, elected officials and appointed
officials who oversee administering redevelopment (economic development) programs in Florida cities
and counties and community redevelopment agencies (CRAs) who have separate, dedicated trust funds
that can be spent on redevelopment projects to meet in person. Attendees at the conference will have
opportunities to enhance leadership skills, learn from municipal experts, share ideas with peers, discuss
strategies for Florida’s future and hear about the latest in products and services for redevelopment
projects.
Don’t miss this opportunity to learn, network and share.
DEADLINES
‣September 20, 2024: Last day to reserve hotel accommodation with group block.
‣October 4, 2024: Conference registration fee increases by $100.00 after 5:00 p.m.
2024 FRA Annual Conference
October 22-25, 2024
Tampa Marriott Water Street, Tampa
#FRA2024
THE FLOTHE FLORRIDAIDA
ASSOCIATIONASSOCIATION
#FRA2024 • 1 262
#FRA2024 • 2
THE FLOTHE FLORRIDAIDA
ASSOCIATIONASSOCIATION
REGISTRATION INFORMATION
Online Registration – Credit Cards Only
Click here to register online and pay with a credit card. The
FRA accepts Visa, Mastercard or American Express.
Mail Registration – Checks Only
Complete the registration on page 8 if you are paying by
check. Mail the registration form and check to the Florida
Redevelopment Association Annual Conference, P.O. Box
1757, Tallahassee, FL 32302 by October 4, 2024.
HOTEL INFORMATION
The Marriott Tampa Water Street, 505 Water St., Tampa, is
the conference hotel and is not accepting reservations at
this time. Your paid registration confirmation will include
the hotel link/code for you to make the reservations. The
cutoff date for reservations is September 20, 2024. The
FRA has secured the special rate of $249.00/night + 13%
tax + $1.95 Tourism Marketing District fee/night – single
or double. The hotel offers valet parking for hotel guests
on a first-come, first-served basis. Available parking is not
guaranteed, and current $28.50/night rates are subject to
change. The FRA room block tends to fill up quickly, so
reserve your room ASAP. The FRA will never call you to
book a room; nor does the FRA use a third party for hotel
reservations. These calls and third-party operators are not
authorized by the FRA and are not part of the room block.
SPECIAL NEEDS
If you are physically challenged and require special
services, or if you have special dietary restrictions (e.g.,
specific allergies, kosher and vegetarian requests), please
attach a written description to your registration form.
REGISTRATION FEES
Full Registration (10/23-10/25)
Member: $395.00; Nonmember: $495.00
(Late registration fee applied October 5, 2024)
Member: $495.00; Nonmember: $595.00
CRA Board Training Course (10/23)
$50.00
Tours (10/23)
$50.00 per tour (1 tour per person)
Academy Graduation and Awards Banquet
(guest ticket) (10/24)
$75.00
Guest/Spouse Registration (spouse, partner or other
nonprofessional relation) (10/23-10/25)
$325.00
Full registration and guest registration fees cover
your name badge and admission to all conference
sessions and the exhibit hall, refreshment breaks, light
continental breakfasts each day, Wednesday’s Welcome
Luncheon in the exhibit hall, Wednesday’s Welcome
Reception in the exhibit hall, Thursday’s Networking
Luncheon in the exhibit hall and Thursday’s Academy
Graduation and Awards Banquet. Tours are an additional
fee. NOTE: Registration fees will increase by $100.00 per
full registration made after October 4, 2024.
CANCELLATION POLICY
Conference registration cancellation requests must
be emailed to mmontgomery@flcities.com no later
than 5:00 p.m. on October 4, 2024, to be eligible for a
conference registration refund. A $50.00 cancellation
fee will be applied to all cancellations. Refunds will be
issued after the conference. No refunds will be made
after October 4, 2024, or for early departure from the
conference.
QUESTIONS? Contact Meredith Montgomery, Meeting Planner, Florida Redevelopment
Association/Florida League of Cities, Inc., 850.701.3636; mmontgomery@flcities.com
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THE FLOTHE FLORRIDAIDA
ASSOCIATIONASSOCIATIONTENTATIVE PROGRAM
(schedule and speakers subject to change)
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 22, 2024
1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Registration Desk Open
4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.
FRA Board of Directors Meeting
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 23, 2024
7:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Registration Desk Open
7:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Tour (walking): Downtown Dunedin Tour: Main Street
(additional fee of $50.00)
Come and visit Downtown Dunedin and see a major
transformation of its Main Street. Over the years, using
an incremental approach, this compact, highly walkable
downtown is now one of the premier small redevelop-
ment districts in the state. This tour will start with a meet
and greet in Dunedin’s new City Hall. From there, a walk-
ing tour will take place where tour guides will present
numerous current and future public and private initiatives
such as streetscape projects, shared enhanced parking
lots, park improvements, a parking garage site and adap-
tive reuse and creative public/private real estate deals.
Along the way, participants will also see what Down-
town Dunedin is known for: a quaint feel with boutique
shops, an active Pinellas Trail and cafes and restaurants.
Downtown Dunedin also features many forms of mobility.
You will get to see not only cars, but golf carts, bicycles,
trolleys, Freebee rides, tiki rides and a ferry by the marina
that brings in guests from Clearwater.
7:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Tour (streetcar and walking): Downtown Tampa to
Ybor City: Streetcar Ride and Historic District Walking
Tour (additional fee of $50.00)
Tour participants will experience a ride on the TECO Line
Streetcar System from Downtown Tampa to historic Ybor
City and back. The tour will highlight redevelopment activi-
ties in five of Tampa’s CRAs (Downtown, Channel District,
Central Park, Ybor City 1 and 2). We will meet in the hotel
lobby and take a short walk to a reserved streetcar and
meet our tour guides. From there, we will travel north
through Downtown Tampa and Channel District and see
the major redevelopment projects that have transformed
Tampa’s downtown into a thriving neighborhood adjacent
to bustling commercial waterfront and popular visitor
destinations. We will be greeted by a developer of the
channel district who will share their story. As we continue
north crossing Adamo Drive, you will see the new Gasworx
mixed use development project, which is under construc-
tion and meet with a member of their development team.
Once in Ybor City, we will exit the streetcar to begin our
historic district walking tour of Ybor City, Tampa’s National
Historic Landmark District. Highlights will include Jose
Marti Park, Hotel Haya, Visitor Information Center, Centro
Ybor, Ybor City Museum casitas as well as a stroll down
famous 7th Avenue, which was named one of the great-
est streets in America. Several stops are planned along the
way as you experience the charm and character of this
beautiful historic mixed-use district. Once our walking tour
concludes, we will board the reserved streetcar waiting for
to head back downtown to the hotel. Please wear comfort-
able shoes and clothing.
7:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Tour (bus): West Tampa to East Tampa
(additional fee of $50.00)
Tour participants will experience both the East Tampa
and West Tampa CRAs. The tour will start in the West
Tampa CRA, highlighting the West River Redevelopment,
showcasing the work that has been done to revitalize the
West Tampa community and provide affordable hous-
ing options to residents. The Main Street Neighborhood
Commercial District will be an attractive, vibrant commer-
cial district that reflects the community’s rich history and
culture. It will be safe, walkable, connected, thriving and
beautiful. Main Street and Howard Avenue will be a place
where residents and visitors gather to socialize and where
residents can access the goods and services they want
without the need to leave their neighborhood. The next
stop will be the Skills Center in East Tampa. This $23 mil-
lion project received a Special Projects grant to redevelop
an old skating rink that had been closed for the better
part of two decades while remediating the blight that
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THE FLOTHE FLORRIDAIDA
ASSOCIATIONASSOCIATIONpreviously existed. The Skills Center serves over 3,500
youth annually through youth sports and nonprofit youth
development-related programming. East Tampa’s Memo-
rial Park Cemetery is the final resting place for over 900
African American Veterans. The East Tampa CRA and City
of Tampa Parks and Recreation Department have part-
nered to enhance the existing cemetery and the overall
aesthetics. The final stop on the tour is the J.C. Newman
Cigar Company factory, which sits within the southwest-
ern portion of the East Tampa CRA. Founded in 1895 by
Julius Caeser Newman, J.C. Newman Cigar Company is
the oldest family-owned premium cigarmaker in America.
For four generations and 128 years, J.C. Newman has
been handcrafting many of the world’s finest cigars.
J.C. Newman is headquartered in an iconic 113-year-old
cigar factory in the Ybor City National Historic Landmark
District. At this factory, known as “El Reloj,” J.C. Newman
rolls premium cigars by hand and hand-operated antique
cigar machines.
8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
CRA Board Training Course
This is a general educational session designed for CRA
staff, elected and appointed officials, volunteers and ad-
visory board members. It provides a succinct overview
of what you need to know that you don’t know in the
universe of CRAs. Learn some helpful, practical, legal
and administrative best practices for CRA policymaking
success.
11:30 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.
Exhibit Hall Open
12:00 p.m. - 1:15 p.m.
Welcome Luncheon in the Exhibit Hall
1:15 p.m. - 2:15 p.m.
Welcome and Keynote Address
Keynote Presentation: Lessons From
History
Keynote Speaker: Richard Gonzmart,
Owner, Columbia Restaurant
Richard Gonzmart, fourth-generation
caretaker of the 1905 Family of Restau-
rants, shares how each generation of his family-owned
business has met challenges that threatened the survival
of Florida’s oldest restaurant, the Columbia in Ybor City,
and persevered to create a company with six brands and
14 locations throughout the state.
Born into the legacy of the world-renowned Colum-
bia Restaurant, founded by his great-grandfather in
1905, Richard’s journey began at a tender age when he
learned the art of identifying fresh fish from his grandfa-
ther. This early immersion laid the foundation for his life-
long dedication to storytelling through the art of food.
Richard is a graduate of Tampa’s Jesuit High School
and continued his education at the University of Denver
School of Hotel and Restaurant Management. He later
attended the Escuela de Turismo y Hosteleria in Madrid,
Spain, and in 2022, he received an honorary doctorate
in business administration conferred by the University of
South Florida.
Under Richard’s direction, Columbia Restaurant expand-
ed from two locations to seven. He also developed Cha
Cha Coconuts in Sarasota in 1989. He opened Ulele in
August 2014, which is listed as Michelin Recommended
in the Florida Michelin Guide for 2022 and 2023. He
then introduced Ulele’s second location at the Tampa
International Airport as well as Café con Leche Ybor City
in 2017. Paying homage to Sicilian immigrants in Ybor,
Gonzmart opened Casa Santo Stefano in November
2020.
Richard is a compassionate philanthropist dedicated to
fostering positive change. His commitment to commu-
nity service is deeply ingrained in the Gonzmart family’s
legacy, with a focus on education, health care and com-
munity welfare.
2:15 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Refreshment Break in the Exhibit Hall
2:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Temporary Outdoor Public Exhibitions and Artful
Infusion
This session explores how an outdoor temporary public
art exhibit in a downtown exhibition is done. It will
examine the many steps in proposing, executing and
seeing through a temporary yearlong or 18-month
sculpture exhibit. Public art is not just a creative
endeavor; it’s an investment in the well-being and
prosperity of the community. We’ll share Tallahassee’s
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#FRA2024 • 5
THE FLOTHE FLORRIDAIDA
ASSOCIATIONASSOCIATION2024 Bicentennial Cascades Sculpture Project to
highlight how you can use art to enhance public safety,
enliven infrastructure, tell compelling stories and
increase cultural and economic vitality.
2:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Revitalizing Horizons: Nurturing Communities through
Strategic Redevelopment
Unlock the potential of urban spaces with innovative
redevelopment strategies and economic development
that foster sustainable community growth.
2:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.
The Little City That Could
This session will highlight projects and activities within
the Lake Wales CRA, from creating a visioning plan for
future growth to a $12 million streetscape project in the
heart of downtown. Lake Wales has quickly been ad-
dressing connectivity, economic impacts and affordable
housing challenges through aggressive grant writing
and partnerships with consultants.
3:30 p.m. - 3:45 p.m.
Refreshment Break in the Exhibit Hall
3:45 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Reimagining Aging Commercial Corridors
Many CRAs in Florida were created to address aging
commercial corridors. Stakeholders, including elected
officials as well as government, economic development
and CRA practitioners, share the monumental task of
transforming auto-dominated roadways into thriving
urban communities. Learn about the challenges of com-
mercial corridor revitalization and proven strategies for
successful redevelopment.
3:45 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Smart Microtransit: Moving your Community Forward
Smart microtransit helps solve several challenges facing
CRAs: Reduce traffic congestion and lower demand on
parking, provide safe and reliable transportation for
seniors and underserved communities, stimulate local
economic activity, and strengthen community engage-
ment and first- and last-mile transit. Smart microtransit
is customizable and helps CRAs exclusively utilize fleets
of eco-friendly vehicles.
3:45 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Finding More Money!
As CRAs analyze expenditures to ensure compliance,
identifying and securing alternative funding sources to
maintain growth is imperative. This session will outline
creative strategies to shift expenditures from the CRA
to a variety of revenue sources for necessary, ongoing
placemaking strategies to keep your district top-of-
mind and a desirable destination.
5:00 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.
Welcome Reception in the Exhibit Hall
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2024
8:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Registration Desk Open
8:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Exhibit Hall Open
8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.
Light Continental Breakfast in the Exhibit Hall
9:00 a.m. - 10:15 a.m.
The Power of Clarity: Communicating with the Public
about your CRA and Gamifying Charrettes
Communication strategies are vital for CRAs to inform,
engage and build trust with community members,
stakeholders and partners. A well-thought-out commu-
nications strategy ensures that important information
is effectively shared, feedback is received, and relation-
ships are nurtured. By establishing clear and consis-
tent communications over various channels, CRAs can
enhance transparency, promote community involvement
and ultimately achieve their goals for revitalization and
economic development. Take a new look at the old way
of doing charrettes. This session will demonstrate an
interactive game that can be duplicated. We have found
that participants enjoy it and they learn a lot.
9:00 a.m. - 10:15 a.m.
Working Alongside Your Local Main Street
Organization
This session will examine the impact a Main Street orga-
nization can have within a CRA district. Working along-
side your local Main Street can provide opportunities to
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#FRA2024 • 6
THE FLOTHE FLORRIDAIDA
ASSOCIATIONASSOCIATIONhost events, engage with local businesses and further
community buy-in to your CRA’s mission.
9:00 a.m. - 10:15 a.m.
CRA and CPTED – The Perfect Marriage
City design that considers how we experience a space,
is critical to promoting positive behavior, while reducing
negative behavior that can lead to an unsafe environ-
ment. Uniting Crime Prevention Through Environmental
Design (CPTED) with a CRA strategic plan provides
investment protection and community policing support,
resulting in an improved quality of life. This session will
detail successful “Design Out Crime” programs that have
been implemented in parks and public spaces within the
City of Fort Walton Beach. Attendees will receive a basic
overview of CPTED strategies and specific details on how
to successfully implement this program within their city.
10:15 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.
Refreshment Break in the Exhibit Hall
10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
Brownfields Redevelopment as a Holistic CRA
Redevelopment Catalyst
This session explores successful projects utilizing
the State Brownfields Program and EPA Brownfields
grants to redevelop stigmatized properties into
affordable housing, commercial, industrial, mixed-use
and ecological enhancement end uses addressing
community concerns, including economic/community
development, environmental justice, health equity and
sustainability while also increasing taxable values within
CRAs.
10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
Defining Rural Main Streets in an Urbanizing Florida
Population growth – from outside and within Florida
– brings increasing traffic volumes and vehicle speeds
through Florida’s rural main streets. Interstate highways
are cutting up small Florida towns with commercial
and personal vehicles, making it unsafe for cyclists and
pedestrians and destroying city centers. Highways such
as SR 27 and US 41 that converge in downtown Williston
have torn apart its historic downtown. Seeking to recon-
nect its community, Williston is collaborating with plan-
ners, urban designers, and landscape architects to foster
the redevelopment of downtown Main Street Williston.
Learn how the community is overcoming the issues cre-
ated by these busy highways to promote a center with
a strong sense of place and activity, walkable neighbor-
hoods and shopping districts, and interconnected parks
and schools.
10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
Improving Your District One Facade at a Time
The CRA Facade Grant Program is an initiative aimed at
revitalizing the district and attracting new businesses to
the community. The program is designed to help property
owners improve the exterior appearance of their buildings
through a grant of up to $100,000. This is a great op-
portunity for small-business owners and property owners
to make much-needed improvements to their buildings
without breaking the bank. Facade treatments are more
than just a facelift on corridor properties. Facade treat-
ments enhance the lives of residents, promote integrity
in ever-changing communities and potentially increase
the trust fund balance. This presentation includes a panel
of program managers from a few CRAs discussing their
facade programs and how any CRA can start or revamp
their facade improvement program.
11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Networking Luncheon in the Exhibit Hall
1:00 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Keynote Presentation: Saying ‘Yes’ to Affordable
Cities: Supply, Stability, Subsidy
Keynote Speaker: Shane Phillips,
speaker and author
Shane Phillips manages the Randall
Lewis Housing Initiative for the UCLA
Lewis Center for Regional Policy Studies. In this role, he
supports faculty and student research, manages events
and publishes research, policy briefs and educational
materials. His work covers a wide range of housing
topics including tenant protections, housing production
policies and government revenue and financing reforms.
Phillips hosts and produces the UCLA Housing Voice
podcast.
In 2020, Phillips published “The Affordable City: Strate-
gies for Putting Housing Within Reach (and Keeping it
There)” with Island Press. His book argues for the co-
prioritization of supply, stability and subsidy in housing
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#FRA2024 • 7
THE FLOTHE FLORRIDAIDA
ASSOCIATIONASSOCIATIONFRIDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2024
8:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.
Registration Desk Open
8:30 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.
Light Continental Breakfast
8:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
Breakfast with the Experts
Enjoy a light continental breakfast at this flexible net-
working session. Breakout groups will focus on redevel-
opment hot topics such as affordable housing, ongoing
maintenance in a CRA and many more. This will be a
great opportunity to network, share success stories and
learn from your peers.
9:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
Hot Legal Topics in Redevelopment
Laws relevant to CRAs change often. Join us as we hold
a session on hot legal topics regarding redevelopment.
We will have our best CRA legal minds discuss the 2019
changes to Florida Statutes, Chapter 163, Part III, and
legislation on topics impacting redevelopment and
CRAs.
9:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
Redevelopment Plan in a Post-CRA World
Many CRAs are sunsetting in the next few years in
Broward County and elsewhere in the state. Sunset
strategies, TIF planning and management, new redevel-
opment organizational structures that don’t use TIF and
identification of funding sources could be discussed.
New research shows that most Florida redevelopment
plans are outdated and irrelevant. Learn about this
research and practical steps to update and align your
redevelopment plan, grants and incentives to Florida
Statutes, Chapter 163, Part III, keeping your plan at the
forefront of your community’s redevelopment.
11:30 a.m.
Conference Adjourns
policy and offers over 50 strategies for improving hous-
ing affordability and access. Phillips has been published
in outlets including The Atlantic and the Los Angeles
Times and occasionally blogs at betterinstitutions.com.
2:45 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Annual Membership Meeting
3:00 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Synergizing Private Investment and Public Policy for
Inclusive Urban Housing
Attendees will explore approaches for CRAs to syner-
gize Florida’s robust private development investment
with smart public policy and investment to effectively
address redevelopment needs that foster inclusive, equi-
table, mixed-income, mixed-use neighborhoods.
3:00 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.
From the Ground Up: A Community-Driven Approach
to Neighborhood Redevelopment
Join us to learn about the Greater Dunbar Initiative! The
Dunbar neighborhood boasts a rich history and vibrant
culture, but it also faces challenges such as limited
housing options, crime and unemployment. The Greater
Dunbar Initiative is a collaborative effort with residents
to address these issues while celebrating the communi-
ty’s strengths. This workshop will explore the Initiative’s
plans to build high-quality mixed-income housing and
financing strategies for mixed-income housing, increase
access to services and economic opportunities, and
improve public safety and neighborhood connectivity.
3:00 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Your Community Redevelopment Plan
New research shows that most Florida redevelopment
plans are outdated and irrelevant. Learn about this
research and practical steps to update and align your
redevelopment plan, grants and incentives to Florida
Statutes, Chapter 163, Part III, keeping your plan at the
forefront of your community’s redevelopment.
6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Academy Graduation and Awards Banquet
Help us congratulate our Academy graduates, award
winners and the 2024-2025 Board of Directors. (This
event is included with a full registration. Guest tickets
are an additional fee. See page 8 for details.)
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#FRA2024 • 8
Full Name: ____________________________________________ Nickname (for badge): ____________________________
Title: ______________________________________________ Organization: _____________________________________
Email: ___________________________________________________________ Phone: ____________________________
Guest/Spouse** (if purchasing): ____________________________ Nickname (for badge): ___________________________
REGISTRATION TYPE MEMBER NONMEMBER TOTALS
Full Registration (10/23-10/25)$395.00 $495.00 ______
Full Registration (10/23-10/25) – After 10/4 $495.00 $595.00 ______
CRA Board Training Course (10/23 8:00 a.m.)$50.00 $50.00 ______
Tour (walking): Downtown Dunedin (10/23 7:30 a.m.)$50.00 $50.00 ______
Tour (streetcar and walking): Downtown Tampa to Ybor City (10/23 7:30 a.m.)$50.00 $50.00 ______
Tour (bus): West Tampa to East Tampa (10/23 7:30 a.m.)$50.00 $50.00 ______
Guest/Spouse Registration** (10/23-10/25)$325.00 $325.00 ______
Extra Ticket: Academy Graduation and Awards Banquet (10/24 6:00 p.m.)
(The banquet ticket is included with a full registration and a guest registration. If
attending the banquet only and not attending conference, a banquet ticket must be
purchased.)$75.00 $75.00 ______
TOTAL $ _________
Online Registration – Credit Cards Only: Click here
to register online and pay with a credit card. The FRA
accepts Visa, Mastercard or American Express.
Mail Registration – Checks Only: Complete the
registration form if you are paying by check. Mail
the registration form and check to the Florida
Redevelopment Association Annual Conference, P.O.
Box 1757, Tallahassee, FL 32302 by October 4, 2024.
Registration Deadline: October 4, 2024. After
October 4, registrations are subject to a $100.00 fee
increase.
Special Needs: If you require special services or have
dietary needs, please attach a written description to
your registration form.
Cancellation Policy: Conference registration
cancellation requests must be emailed to
mmontgomery@flcities.com no later than 5:00 p.m.
on October 4, 2024, to be eligible for a conference
registration refund. A $50.00 cancellation fee will be
applied to all cancellations. Refunds will be issued
after the conference. No refunds will be made after
October 4, 2024, or for early departure from the
conference.
2024 FRA ANNUAL CONFERENCE REGISTRATION FORM
Tampa Marriott Water Street • Tampa, FL • October 22-25, 2024
Florida Redevelopment Association
P.O. Box 1757 • Tallahassee, FL • 32302-1757 • 850.701.3636 • mmontgomery@flcities.com
THE FLOTHE FLORRIDAIDA
ASSOCIATIONASSOCIATION
269
Meeting Minutes
Special Community Redevelopment Agency
Boynton Beach, Florida August 29, 2017
It was noted the vote was to accept the rankings and start negotiations with Centennial
and go before the CRA Advisory Board and come back to the Board in September.
It was noted the SAIL application is due October 5 to the Florida Housing Finance
Agency. Centennial would need contract and site plan approval form filled out and
verification of utilities. The Advisory Board could review the presentation next week and
before the regular September CRA meeting. The members discussed if they were
awarded the 4% SAIL, if they could apply for the 9%, however, the timeline is
Centennial would have to accept the SAIL if awarded. Vice Chair Katz favored seeking
the 9% first and if that failed, the opportunity for CRA financing this year as the option.
Ms. Ramel us agreed as did Mr. Casella. There was consensus to apply for the 9% and
then discuss the non -competitive bids after the 9% application which is due in early
September .
Mr. Simon asked if there was any interest to move forward with acquisition by
Centennial while they are going through the non-competitive application. Chair Grant
wanted the CRA Advisory Board to review it because they have a little bit more time if
they do not get 9%. If they do not receive the 9% credits, they could still apply for the
4% credits. Mr. McCray requested a copy of who voted for what and iearned it could be
obtained via public records request. There was agreement for the Advisory Board to
review the proposal and come back in September to finalize negotiations.
VI. New Business
A. Discussion and Consideration of CRA Advisory Board Attendance at the 2017
Florida Redevelopment Conference
Mr. Simon explained the budget allows for funding for travel to the above. Last year
several members of the Advisory Board attended the conference. Due to information
and deadlines for registrations , staff understood the Advisory Board members were
approved. Last year, the CRA Board wanted to approve attendance for the next
Conference. This year, the Conference is October 17th through October 20 1h. Mr.
Casella asked if it was legal for CRA Advisory Board members to attend and learned it
was and other elected officials who are not part of the Board attended. It was a Board
decision. He suggested members that did not go last year attend. Attorney Rosamell
suggested issuing a public notice the advisory board members would attend .
Mr. McCray asked about this because this is the only advisory board that was sending
its members to a conference. No other Board does so. He noted legal indicated it was
as long as it is okay. Chair Grant favored paying the registration and conference, but not
the mileage and meals. He thought there was a learning aspect and perhaps the Chair
of other advisory boards, if there is a conference , they receive reimbursement for the
lodging and registration.
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270
Meeting Minutes
Special Community Redevelopment Agency
Boynton Beach, Florida August 29, 2017
David Katz, 67 Midwood Lane, objected to the allocation last year. He noted Vice
Chair Katz questioned it last year and Mr. Casella agreed with Vice Chair Katz
comments. Chair Gant was concerned about the responsibility to the taxpayers.
Commissioner Romelus believed education and a conference would yield a better
product. Mr. Katz explained as the Chair of the Planning and Development Board, he
calls the member beforehand and recommends they go to staff and ask questions. The
CRA has a Director and Assistant Director that could provide the same information
without the cost if they attended and advise the advisory board members about the
conference . If all seven advisory board members attended, it would cost $8,400. Mr.
Katz pointed out last year members of the Planning and Development Board attended a
conference in Palm Springs and paid $25 each. The members did not get reimbursed
and he did not support reimbursement as they are volunteering, The backup for the
prior item was not provided to the public and staff had informed him it was against the
Florida statute. He thought Statute 163 was specific about what CRA tax money can be
spent on and advised it was for Board members and it never mentions an advisory
board. He hoped it would not result in ethics complaints noting the CRA Advisory Board
is not quasi-judicial. He thought it was not right to send the advisory board members on
a trip with taxpayer funds. If may be legal, but it may not be right. He read a passage
from James Madison "I cannot undertake to lay my finger on that article of the
constitution which granted a right to Congress of expending on objects of benevolence
the money of their constituents." Mr . Katz thought it was unwarranted.
No public comments were received.
Vice Chair Katz agreed it opens a slippery slope and there is no one more important
than another. He thought someone could go and convey information and obtain
materials and resources to provide an education locally. He agreed with Mr. Katz'
comments. If he supported the request, he would send the liaison for any advisory
board if there is a worthwhile learning event.
Ms. Romelus favored sending three members and asked how many Board members
are going to the conference in October. Mr . McCray responded he had not made his
decision. She thought no one was going and thought if there were funds allocated and if
individuals attended and brought information back, it would be helpful. The Advisory
Board is asked to review things that are high level. She thought the advisory Board can
rotate attendance, if CRA board members are not going. She noted Linda Cross
attends every CRA meeting and thought she should attend. Ms. Romelus attended the
conference last year and she learned a lot. They are volunteers. If none of the CRA
Board members are going , she thought the offer should be extended to the Advisory
Board. They will have a benefit.
Mr. McCray noted Mr. Pollack, Vice Chair of the Advisory Board was present.
Chair Grant looked up the quote from Madison and said it was different because it was
about spending tax dollars to help French refugees from the Haitian revolution from
20
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Meeting Minutes
Special Community Redevelopment Agency
Boynton Beach, Florida August 29, 2017
Wikipedia. He was aware City Boards have community support funds. He thought part
of the new way of government is helping the community and he thought a report should
be given. Last year, Linda Cross, the CRA Advisory Board Chair provided a report. He
favored limiting the conference to two members and the CRA AB can decide who would
go. Mr. Casella thought a rotating basis would be appropriate with the first choice of
who to send be someone who has attended in the past. Just lodging and conference
expenses would be paid. Mr. Pollack advised most of the Board works and they need
months in advance to schedule attending in October . He thought it was a good idea
and two people should go. They could learn and come back .
There was consensus to limit the conference to two persons and to limit the cost to
conference fees and lodging. Vice Chair Katz favored a cap at $1,200 and they could
reimburse for lodging. Chair Grant liked the registration and the lodging, not mileage or
meals. Commissioner McCray did not approve of it. Mr. Casella was fine with the
registration and lodging. Ms. Romelus was also fine with the discussion.
Chair Grant requested a motion to allow two members of the CRA Advisory Board with
funding allowed for lodging and registration. This would become a policy so the do not
have to return to the Board for approval next year
Motion
Commissioner Romelus moved to approve. Mr. Casella seconded the motion that
passed 4-1 (Commissioner McCray dissenting.)
VII. Adjournment
Motion
Ms. Romelus moved to adjourn. Mr. McCray seconded the motion that unanimously
passed . The meeting was adjourned at 9:56p.m .
~bJL &-W-LL-
Catherine Cherry (J
Minutes Specialist
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