09-17-25 CRAAB1.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 7, 2025
7.Old Business
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.Pending Assignment No. 3 - Discussion and Consideration of New Assignments
from the CRA Board Assigned at the January 10, 2025 CRA Monthly Board Meeting
8.New Business
A.New Business No. 1 - Discussion and Consideration of Registration to Attend the
Florida Redevelopment Association 2025 Annual Conference on October 15-17,
2025 in West Palm Beach, FL
CRA Advisory Board Meeting
Wednesday, September 17, 2025 - 6:00 PM
City Hall Chambers, 100 E. Ocean Avenue
561-737-3256
AGENDA
A. Additions, Deletions, Corrections to the Agenda
B. Adoption of Agenda
1
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 7, 2025 CRAB Minutes
CRA ADVISORY BOARD MEETING OF: September 17, 2025
CONSENT
AGENDA ITEM 6.A
SUBJECT:
CRA Advisory Board Meeting Minutes - August 7, 2025
SUMMARY:
See attached minutes.
CRAB RECOMMENDATION:
Approve the August 7, 2025 CRA Advisory Board meeting minutes.
ATTACHMENTS:
Description
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9
CRA ADVISORY BOARD MEETING OF: September 17, 2025
OLD BUSINESS
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.
At the January 2, 2025 meeting, the CRAB board finalized their presentation to the CRA Board
on their recommendations for updating the 2016 CRA Plan and presented their ideas and
suggestions to the CRA Board meeting on January 14, 2025 (see Attachment II).
At the February 6, 2025 meeting, the CRAB Board discussed Assignment No. 2 which was to
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).
The CRAB Board continued the discussion of Assignment No. 2 at the May 1, 2025 meeting,
specifically the beautification of Palmetto Greens Linear Park. The Board also discussed the
possibility of an interlocal agreement (ILA) with FDOT to beautify the 95 exit corridors.
The Board came to the June 5, 2025, meeting with 3-5 additional suggestions on ways to
beautify the area within the CRA District above what the City requires with a consensus to
readdress the items discussed in more detail:
10
•Attachment I - 2016 Redevelopment Plan
•Attachment II - CRAB CRA Plan Recommendations
1. Facade revitalization program for residential
2. Unified street signage and light pole banners, including gateway features
3. Pavers on Ocean Avenue to Marina to make it more walkable
4. Fifteen foot sidewalks for strollable walkways
5. New water taxi with stops
6. Business window signage regulations
7. Lighting options at 95 exits
The Board also revived the discussion on the grocery store location and timeline at the June
meeting. The Board agreed that Board Member Troyanowski would be the point of contact for
William Morris and Hyperion regarding a possible presentation/recommendation on potential
grocer.
At the August 7, 2025 meeting, the Board continued working on their recommendations for the
ways to beautify the area within the CRA District above what the City requires. Board Member
Roundtree volunteered to create a presentation to discuss at the September CRAB meeting
and present at the November 10th CRA Board Meeting.
No other action was taken at the August meeting.
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 Board 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.
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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COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY ADVISORY BOARD
PLAN RECOMMENDATIONS
2025
MISSION STATEMENT
The Boynton Beach Community Redevelopment Agency (BBCRA) serves the community by guiding redevelopment activities such
as affordable housing, free business promotional events, and small business funding programs that create a vibrant downtown core and
revitalized neighborhoods within the Agency’s 1,650 acres located along the eastern edge of the City of Boynton Beach.
254
The 2016 Community Redevelopment Plan, while ambitious at its inception, no longer aligns with the current
needs and aspirations of Boynton Beach residents and visitors. With the city evolving rapidly, it’s time to re-imagine this
plan to better reflect today’s priorities—emphasizing sustainable growth, vibrant public spaces, diverse housing options,
and attractions that appeal to both locals and tourists. A refreshed vision will ensure Boynton Beach remains a thriving,
dynamic community that meets the demands of the future.
Adoption Date: October 4, 2016
255
256
Educate residents about the CRA Districts.
Re-Evaluate district boundaries and consider renaming/re-branding.
(e.g., Creating a Marina District currently in the Downtown District)
Reevaluate the Boynton Beach CRA branding to align with the city’s
evolving identity and vision for the future.
Implementing a comprehensive multi-modal connectivity plan will enhance connectivity,
accessibility, and efficiency across all districts/city, ensuring equitable mobility options for
residents and visitors throughout the city.
DISTRICT RECOMMENDATIONS / CONSIDERATIONS
257
Consider creating a new tagline that could better encompass its vibrant community and diverse appeal.
“Gateway to the Gulfstream” highlights the coast but may not reflect Boynton Beach’s full identity.
Explore partnerships with Live Local projects to incorporate a grocery store, particularly in or
adjacent to The Heart of Boynton district, enhancing accessibility and supporting community needs.
Engage community residents to collaborate with the CRA to rename the streets in our Downtown,
Cultural, and Heart of Boynton districts, reflecting the area’s unique character and shared heritage.
Examine and coordinate potential funding for infrastructure improvements for all districts.
(water, sewer, drainage)
Continue land banking opportunities. (affordable housing, retail, mixed-use, office, hotel, re-development)
DISTRICT RECOMMENDATIONS / CONSIDERATIONS
258
COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY ADVISORY BOARD
PLAN RECOMMENDATIONS
Federal Highway Corridor District
(North & South Entry)
- Create gateway features, and incorporate green canopy spaces.
- Create a sense of destination.
- Implement marketing techniques and attraction programs to
encourage businesses, restaurants and retail to relocate,
expand or start new operations within the district.
- Expand sidewalks and pedestrian areas.
259
COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY ADVISORY BOARD
PLAN RECOMMENDATIONS
Downtown District
- Look for land opportunities for or a parking garage.
- Identify City and private owned surface lots in the meantime for public parking.
- Beautify the Federal corridor.
(canopy tree, landscaping, hardscaping, wider sidewalks, decorative lighting, public art)
- Increase activation at Veteran’s Park with features like red, white, and blue lighting.
- Acquire/partner land for a grocery store.
- Enhance maintenance, safety, and cleanliness to
accommodate pedestrian traffic.
260
Cultural District
- Create a gateway to establish a sense of arrival.
- Increase activation throughout the corridor.
- splash pads, family-friendly features
- Enhance lighting.
- Implement way-finding and signage.
- Add foliage and trees
- palm trees, flowers
- Designate the area as a unique district within Boynton Beach
- Ocean Avenue with distinct pavers, lamppost signage etc.
- Improve public safety. (currently a vehicular corridor will become more pedestrian friendly)
- Provide markets and services to support increased development and density.
- Preserve historic buildings and consider relocation when necessary.
- Pioneer Village: Oscar Magnuson House, Andrew’s House
- Expand and preserve the art component throughout the corridor.
COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY ADVISORY BOARD
PLAN RECOMMENDATIONS
261
COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY ADVISORY BOARD
PLAN RECOMMENDATIONS
Boynton Beach Boulevard District
- Improve or install additional sidewalks.
- Add decorative lighting.
- Install a gateway feature.
- Increase way-finding and neighborhood identification signage.
262
COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY ADVISORY BOARD
PLAN RECOMMENDATIONS
Heart of Boynton District
- Incorporate a grocer into or adjacent to the district .
- Solicit community input.
- Include a farmer’s/green market/gathering space
within the MLK corridor.
- Increase public art installations in the Heart of Boynton.
- Improve older homes in the area.
- Enhance community greening initiatives.
- Change some street names to be
more represent the community.
263
Industrial District
- Transform the industrial area into a destination.
- Install paved west-end walkways and lighting.
- Develop on-street parking on Industrial Avenue.
- Add fencing separation the west-end homes.
- Identify land for parking and turnarounds.
- Promote future residential and commercial redevelopment.
- Improve lighting.
- Enhance street-scape and landscaping.
- Create activation areas for art and activities.
- Add street signage.
- Incorporate CPTED principles. (Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design)
- Install monument signs.
- Address code enforcement to clean and beautify the area.
- Work with business owners to enhance and beautify their properties.
COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY ADVISORY BOARD
PLAN RECOMMENDATIONS
264
Thank You
ADVISORY BOARD MEMBERS 2023-2025
Naomi Cobb (Chair)
Courtlandt McQuire (Vice Chair)
Kameren Maharaj
Lesha Roundtree
Alexandria Lopresto
Chevette Gadson
Thomas Ramiccio
265
CRA ADVISORY BOARD MEETING OF: September 17, 2025
OLD BUSINESS
AGENDA ITEM 7.C
SUBJECT:
Pending Assignment No. 3 - Discussion and Consideration of New Assignments from the CRA
Board Assigned at the January 10, 2025 CRA Monthly Board Meeting
SUMMARY:
At the CRA Board Meeting on January 10, 2025, the CRA Board approved the following tasks
be assigned to the CRA Advisory Board (CRAB):
1. Investigate specifics including locations for the splash pad in the Cultural District.
2. Continue discussion and research ideas/names for renaming streets.
3. Research and investigate opportunities to honor the two (2) Heisman Trophy winners that
are from Boynton Beach. Examples include statutes/monuments and street renaming.
4. Recommendations for changing or inclusion of possible historic district or way to
incorporate historic preservation within our CRA Plan (see Attachments I and II).
At the February 6, 2025 meeting, the CRAB Board discussed Assignment No. 1, which was to
investigate specifics including locations for the splash pad in the Cultural District.
The CRAB Board continued to discuss ideas for the splash pad at their May 1, 2025 meeting,
including locations along the Ocean Avenue corridor.
The Board came to the June 5, 2025, meeting continuing the splash pad conversation by
providing examples and costs.
At the August 7, 2025 meeting, the CRAB Board continued to discuss ideas for the splash
pad, including locations at both Pence Park and Sara Sims Park, and suggested adding an art
feature the Cultural District location to activate the space both day and night. Board Member
Troyanowski will come to the September meeting with a final presentation for the splash pad.
The Board also preliminarily discussed ways to honor the two (2) Heisman Trophy winners
including the following:
1. An event with sponsors, vendors and include young athletes
2. Renaming or street dedication
3. Proclamation or day designation
266
•Attachment I - 2016 Redevelopment Plan
•Attachment II - CRAB CRA Plan Recommendations
4. Mural or Statutes
The Board will discuss street naming ideas and additional ways to honor the two (2) Heisman
Trophy winners at their September 17, 2025 meeting.
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.
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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COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY ADVISORY BOARD
PLAN RECOMMENDATIONS
2025
MISSION STATEMENT
The Boynton Beach Community Redevelopment Agency (BBCRA) serves the community by guiding redevelopment activities such
as affordable housing, free business promotional events, and small business funding programs that create a vibrant downtown core and
revitalized neighborhoods within the Agency’s 1,650 acres located along the eastern edge of the City of Boynton Beach.
510
The 2016 Community Redevelopment Plan, while ambitious at its inception, no longer aligns with the current
needs and aspirations of Boynton Beach residents and visitors. With the city evolving rapidly, it’s time to re-imagine this
plan to better reflect today’s priorities—emphasizing sustainable growth, vibrant public spaces, diverse housing options,
and attractions that appeal to both locals and tourists. A refreshed vision will ensure Boynton Beach remains a thriving,
dynamic community that meets the demands of the future.
Adoption Date: October 4, 2016
511
512
Educate residents about the CRA Districts.
Re-Evaluate district boundaries and consider renaming/re-branding.
(e.g., Creating a Marina District currently in the Downtown District)
Reevaluate the Boynton Beach CRA branding to align with the city’s
evolving identity and vision for the future.
Implementing a comprehensive multi-modal connectivity plan will enhance connectivity,
accessibility, and efficiency across all districts/city, ensuring equitable mobility options for
residents and visitors throughout the city.
DISTRICT RECOMMENDATIONS / CONSIDERATIONS
513
Consider creating a new tagline that could better encompass its vibrant community and diverse appeal.
“Gateway to the Gulfstream” highlights the coast but may not reflect Boynton Beach’s full identity.
Explore partnerships with Live Local projects to incorporate a grocery store, particularly in or
adjacent to The Heart of Boynton district, enhancing accessibility and supporting community needs.
Engage community residents to collaborate with the CRA to rename the streets in our Downtown,
Cultural, and Heart of Boynton districts, reflecting the area’s unique character and shared heritage.
Examine and coordinate potential funding for infrastructure improvements for all districts.
(water, sewer, drainage)
Continue land banking opportunities. (affordable housing, retail, mixed-use, office, hotel, re-development)
DISTRICT RECOMMENDATIONS / CONSIDERATIONS
514
COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY ADVISORY BOARD
PLAN RECOMMENDATIONS
Federal Highway Corridor District
(North & South Entry)
- Create gateway features, and incorporate green canopy spaces.
- Create a sense of destination.
- Implement marketing techniques and attraction programs to
encourage businesses, restaurants and retail to relocate,
expand or start new operations within the district.
- Expand sidewalks and pedestrian areas.
515
COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY ADVISORY BOARD
PLAN RECOMMENDATIONS
Downtown District
- Look for land opportunities for or a parking garage.
- Identify City and private owned surface lots in the meantime for public parking.
- Beautify the Federal corridor.
(canopy tree, landscaping, hardscaping, wider sidewalks, decorative lighting, public art)
- Increase activation at Veteran’s Park with features like red, white, and blue lighting.
- Acquire/partner land for a grocery store.
- Enhance maintenance, safety, and cleanliness to
accommodate pedestrian traffic.
516
Cultural District
- Create a gateway to establish a sense of arrival.
- Increase activation throughout the corridor.
- splash pads, family-friendly features
- Enhance lighting.
- Implement way-finding and signage.
- Add foliage and trees
- palm trees, flowers
- Designate the area as a unique district within Boynton Beach
- Ocean Avenue with distinct pavers, lamppost signage etc.
- Improve public safety. (currently a vehicular corridor will become more pedestrian friendly)
- Provide markets and services to support increased development and density.
- Preserve historic buildings and consider relocation when necessary.
- Pioneer Village: Oscar Magnuson House, Andrew’s House
- Expand and preserve the art component throughout the corridor.
COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY ADVISORY BOARD
PLAN RECOMMENDATIONS
517
COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY ADVISORY BOARD
PLAN RECOMMENDATIONS
Boynton Beach Boulevard District
- Improve or install additional sidewalks.
- Add decorative lighting.
- Install a gateway feature.
- Increase way-finding and neighborhood identification signage.
518
COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY ADVISORY BOARD
PLAN RECOMMENDATIONS
Heart of Boynton District
- Incorporate a grocer into or adjacent to the district .
- Solicit community input.
- Include a farmer’s/green market/gathering space
within the MLK corridor.
- Increase public art installations in the Heart of Boynton.
- Improve older homes in the area.
- Enhance community greening initiatives.
- Change some street names to be
more represent the community.
519
Industrial District
- Transform the industrial area into a destination.
- Install paved west-end walkways and lighting.
- Develop on-street parking on Industrial Avenue.
- Add fencing separation the west-end homes.
- Identify land for parking and turnarounds.
- Promote future residential and commercial redevelopment.
- Improve lighting.
- Enhance street-scape and landscaping.
- Create activation areas for art and activities.
- Add street signage.
- Incorporate CPTED principles. (Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design)
- Install monument signs.
- Address code enforcement to clean and beautify the area.
- Work with business owners to enhance and beautify their properties.
COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY ADVISORY BOARD
PLAN RECOMMENDATIONS
520
Thank You
ADVISORY BOARD MEMBERS 2023-2025
Naomi Cobb (Chair)
Courtlandt McQuire (Vice Chair)
Kameren Maharaj
Lesha Roundtree
Alexandria Lopresto
Chevette Gadson
Thomas Ramiccio
521
•Attachment I - 2025 FRA Annual Conference Program
•Attachment II - August 2017 CRA Board Minutes
CRA ADVISORY BOARD MEETING OF: September 17, 2025
NEW BUSINESS
AGENDA ITEM 8.A
SUBJECT:
New Business No. 1 - Discussion and Consideration of Registration to Attend the Florida
Redevelopment Association 2025 Annual Conference on October 15-17, 2025 in West Palm
Beach, 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 15-17, 2025, at the Hilton West Palm Beach Hotel in West Palm Beach,
FL. The conference provides valuable information to staff and board members on CRA related
issues, best practices, programs and legislative updates. The 2025 conference program is
provided as Attachment I.
Registration information is available on the FRA's website: https://redevelopment.net/2025-
annual-conference/
In summary, the conference registration is $395/member plus $50/tour until September 26th.
Rates increase on registrations placed after September 26th. There 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).
On September 9, 2025, the CRA Board approved reimbursement of the cost of the registration
fees of four (4) CRA Advisory Board members due to location of the conference.
FISCAL IMPACT:
Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Budget, General Fund, Line Item 01-51010-225 : $30,000
CRAB RECOMMENDATION:
CRAB Board member attendance to be determined based on discussion.
ATTACHMENTS:
Description
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THE FLOTHE FLORRIDAIDA
ASSOCIATIONASSOCIATION
THE FLOTHE FLORRIDAIDA
ASSOCIATIONASSOCIATION2025
FRA ANNUAL CONFERENCE
October 14-17, 2025
Hilton West Palm Beach
#FRA2025
REGISTRATION INFORMATION
The 2025 Florida Redevelopment Association Annual Conference will be held on October 14-17, 2025, at
the Hilton West Palm Beach in West Palm Beach.
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 12, 2025: Last day to reserve hotel accommodation with group block.
‣September 26, 2025: Conference registration fee increases by $100.00 after 5:00 p.m.
‣October 10, 2025: Online registration closes.
#FRA2025 • 1 524
#FRA2025 • 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 9 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 10, 2025.
HOTEL INFORMATION
The Hilton West Palm Beach, 600 Okeechobee Boulevard,
West Palm Beach, is the conference venue and is not
accepting reservations at this time. Your paid registration
confirmation will include the hotel booking link for you to
secure a reservation. The cutoff date for reservations is
September 12, 2025. The FRA has secured the special rate
of $289/night + 13% tax. The FRA room block tends to fill
up quickly, so reserve your room once your registration
is complete. 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. Self-Parking
is not available at this property. However, valet services
are offered to our group at the discounted rate of $25/
night plus tax. This rate also applies to those who are not
staying on property but are attending the conference daily.
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 (October 14-17, 2025)
Member: $395.00; Nonmember: $495.00
(Late registration fee applied September 27, 2025)
Member: $495.00; Nonmember: $595.00
CRA Board Training Course (October 15, 2025)
$50.00
Tours (October 15, 2025)
$50.00 per tour (1 tour per person)
Academy Graduation and Awards Banquet
(October 16, 2025)
$75.00 Guest Ticket
Guest/Spouse Registration (October 14-17, 2025)
(Nonprofessional relations only)
$325.00
Full registration and guest/spouse registration fee
covers 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
registration/guest for all registrations made after 5:00
p.m. on September 26, 2025.
CANCELLATION POLICY
Conference registration cancellation requests must be
emailed to mmontgomery@flcities.com no later than
5:00 p.m. on September 26, 2025, 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 September 26, 2025, 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
525
#FRA2025 • 3
THE FLOTHE FLORRIDAIDA
ASSOCIATIONASSOCIATIONTENTATIVE PROGRAM
(Schedule and speakers subject to change)
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2025
1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Registration Desk Open
3:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.
FRA Board of Directors Meeting
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2025
7:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Registration Desk Open
7:15 a.m. - 12:00 p.m
Tour (bus): West Palm Beach/Riviera Beach
(Additional fee of $50.00; pre-registration required)
Attendees will explore the transformation of West
Palm Beach and Riviera Beach, starting with the
Historic Northwest District, where cultural heritage and
modern development converge. Highlights include the
iconic Sunset Lounge, Styx Promenade, and Heart and
Soul Park, all key to the district’s revitalization. The
tour continues to the Riviera Beach Marina Village, a
reimagined waterfront offering recreation, culture, and
economic opportunity. Finally, attendees will visit the
NORA (North Railroad Avenue) district, a sustainable,
mixed-use development that blends adaptive reuse
with modern design. Each stop showcases how public-
private partnerships (P3s) are reshaping neighborhoods,
preserving heritage, and driving dynamic growth, all
while fostering a stronger sense of community.
7:15 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Tour (bus): Delray Beach/Boynton Beach
(Additional fee of $50.00; pre-registration required)
Join us for a dynamic and immersive tour that will
showcase two of Palm Beach County’s charming – and
growing! – coastal towns: Delray Beach, affectionately
known as the “Village by the Sea,” and Boynton Beach,
the “Gateway to the Gulf Stream.” This informative guided
tour highlights key investments both communities are
making to ensure community-centered, inclusive growth
that supports both people and place. In Delray Beach,
visit affordable and workforce housing developed in
partnership with local nonprofits, new commercial spaces
in The Set that support small businesses while preserving
the neighborhood’s cultural identity, and strategic CRA
investments in downtown infrastructure that have played
a pivotal role in enhancing the area’s vibrancy and appeal.
In Boynton Beach, visit the new Town Square complex,
view active development sites along East Ocean Avenue
and Boynton Beach Boulevard, and tour the Boynton
Harbor Marina, a key anchor for downtown activity and
recreational experiences. The tour concludes in the Heart
of Boynton with an inside look at vital affordable housing
developments and a mixed-use project that is shaping the
community.
7:15 a.m. - 12:00 p.m..
Tour (bus): Lake Worth/West Gate
(Additional fee of $50.00; pre-registration required)
Explore innovative housing, infrastructure, and
redevelopment projects in the Westgate and Lake Worth
Beach CRAs. The tour begins in Westgate, just west of
downtown West Palm Beach, with a visit to the Dennis P.
Koehler Preserve— a 7.5-acre lake serving as a park and
stormwater mitigation site. Next, see the $11M Westgate
Avenue Streetscape Project and other key CRA-led
improvements like South Westgate Estates’ cottage
housing, Oswego Oaks Park, and Westgate Dog Park.
The tour continues past new multifamily developments
along Congress Avenue, the future 47-acre Palm Beach
Kennel Club redevelopment, and The Hangar—a luxury
car storage facility with community space. In Lake Worth
Beach, visit vibrant mixed-use developments like Deco
Green and the MID, as well as the transit-oriented Lake
Worth Station. Stroll through the historic district to see
charming Lake Worth Cottages, then visit Downtown
Lake Worth Beach and the iconic Gulfstream Hotel,
now under restoration. The tour concludes with stops
at major redevelopment sites including The Bohemian,
a Brightline-connected residential project, and Madison
Terrace, a planned affordable senior housing community,
before returning to West Palm Beach.
526
#FRA2025 • 4
THE FLOTHE FLORRIDAIDA
ASSOCIATIONASSOCIATION7:15 a.m. - 12:00 p.m..
Tour (walking): City Place/Downtown
(Additional fee of $50.00; pre-registration required)
Get your steps in on this up-close and personal walking
tour of the streetscapes and real estate developments
along the Rosemary Avenue and Clematis Street
corridors! We’ll start walking from the Hilton West Palm
Beach lobby past the Restoration Center hardware
anchor store on Okeechobee Boulevard into the heart of
City Place, where you’ll hear brief presentations from the
developer as well as the design team that helped bring
their vision to life. After a quick presentation, we’ll have
breakfast at Maman and continue our walk to Clematis
Street, the nightlife hub of downtown West Palm Beach!
We’ll continue our tour walking east on Clematis Street,
hearing from the design team and the West Palm
Beach CRA about streetscape planning, design, and
implementation. You’ll also hear from the contractor
about how the corridor was kept accessible during
construction to keep pedestrian traffic flowing through
the area. Once we reach the waterfront at Flagler Drive
and Clematis Street, you’ll get to listen to a presentation
from the CRA about how they activate the waterfront for
events and the exciting future the City/CRA has in store
for the area. After the waterfront presentation, we’ll start
to head back to the hotel, but make one more stop at
the Chase/Trinity streetscape project, where attendees
will get to see a full streetscape project in action. Please
wear comfortable shoes and bring a bottle of water. Total
distance will be between 2 and 2.5 miles!
8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
CRA Board Training Course
Presented by: Jeff Burton, Ph.D., FRA-RA,
Executive Director, City of Bradenton CRA
This is a general educational session designed for
CRA staff, elected and appointed officials, volunteers,
and advisory 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:The Walkable City
Keynote Speaker: Jeff Speck, Partner,
Speck Dempsey LLC
Jeff Speck is a city planner and author
who advocates internationally for more
walkable cities. As Director of Design
at the National Endowment for the Arts from 2003
through 2007, he presided over the “Mayors’ Institute
on City Design” and created the Governors’ Institute on
Community Design. Prior to his federal appointment,
Speck spent 10 years as Director of Town Planning at
DPZ & Co., the principal firm behind the New Urbanism
movement. Since 2007, he has led Speck & Associates
(now Speck Dempsey), an award-winning urban
planning firm serving public and private clients around
the world.
With Andres Duany and Elizabeth Plater-Zyberk, Speck
is the co-author of “Suburban Nation,” which the Wall
Street Journal calls “the urbanist’s bible.” His 2012 book
“Walkable City” was the best-selling city planning title
of the past decade and has been translated into eight
languages. He is also the principal author of “The Smart
Growth Manual and Walkable City Rules.”
Speck has been named a fellow of both the American
Institute of Certified Planners and the Congress for New
Urbanism. In a recent Planetizen poll, he was voted one
of the ten “most influential urbanists of all time.” Speck
was the 2022 recipient of the Seaside Prize, whose
former awardees include Jane Jacobs and Christopher
Alexander. His TED talks and YouTube videos have been
viewed more than six million times.
2:15 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Refreshment Break in the Exhibit Hall
527
#FRA2025 • 5
THE FLOTHE FLORRIDAIDA
ASSOCIATIONASSOCIATION2:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Redefining Redevelopment: Overcoming Red Tape
with Innovation
A dynamic discussion on innovative approaches
to redevelopment that break through traditional
bureaucratic barriers, focusing on collaboration with
communities and unconventional partnerships to create
impactful projects.
2:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Part 1: Securing Legacies: Overcoming Barriers to
Increase Generational Wealth in Redevelopment Areas
This session will explore critical strategies for preserving
communities and preventing displacement. Key topics
include heirs’ property, vacancy prevention, and
community stability. The discussion will also delve into
the preservation of residential properties including title
continuance and estate planning and their impact on
home valuation. Attendees will gain insights into how
these tools can be leveraged to maintain community
cohesion and ensure long-term housing preservation.
Part 2: Starve the Crisis, Feed the Vision
Explore how strategic planning, collaboration, and
innovative funding can address housing challenges,
showing affordable housing as the catalyst for
community growth.
2:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Leveraging Brownfields Resources to Inspire CRA
Revitalization
This session will explore state, federal, and local grants,
incentives, and resources to jump-start the reuse of
environmentally stigmatized properties within CRAs.
Brownfields practitioners, including active CRA
managers/consultants and environmental legal counsel,
will discuss layering incentives and resources to increase
the tax base and inspire community and economic
development within CRAs. Multiple case studies of
successful CRA Brownfields projects will also be
discussed.
3:30 p.m. - 3:45 p.m.
Refreshment Break in the Exhibit Hall
3:45 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Informed Decision-Making for CRAs: The Power of
Data Gathering and Analysis
This panel will discuss the triad of meaningful data
gathering and analysis from community engagement,
economic trends, and parcel data related to CRAs. Learn
how leveraging data can help ground and target your
agency’s goals, actions, and benchmarks, leading to
informed and measurable plans.
3:45 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.
The Business of the CRA vs. the CRA Brand
This session will focus on understanding the critical
difference between what a Community Redevelopment
Agency (CRA) does and what it means to the people it
serves. CRAs are tasked with revitalizing communities,
attracting investment, and improving quality of life, but
their impact isn’t just measured in projects and policies.
It’s also shaped by public perception, stakeholder
trust, and the agency’s ability to communicate its
value effectively. In this session, we’ll explore the
fundamentals of CRA operations vs. CRA identity,
unpacking the psychology of how residents, business
owners, elected officials, and developers interpret
the agency’s work. Participants will learn how to
align redevelopment efforts with a compelling brand
narrative.
3:45 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Reimagining Public Parks: Transforming Spaces for
Communities of Tomorrow
Discover practical methods to adapt to changing
CRA rules, streamline management, and sharpen
communication. Drawing on real-world experiences in
Tampa’s CRAs—including management restructuring,
consolidating multiple districts, and brand migration—
this session presents proven tactics to bolster local
government and redevelopment efforts.
5:00 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.
Welcome Reception in the Exhibit Hall
528
#FRA2025 • 6
THE FLOTHE FLORRIDAIDA
ASSOCIATIONASSOCIATIONTHURSDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2025
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.
It Takes a Village: How Successful Communications Can
Lead to Transformations
This session aims to inspire other organizations to
prioritize community communications and highlights the
importance of adaptive strategies in grant management.
9:00 a.m. - 10:15 a.m.
Part 1: Transforming Urban Mobility: Leveraging
Mobility Plans
Street design mobility is one of the most critical aspects
of redevelopment and one that CRAs can affect. This
presentation highlights how mobility plans can be
used to transform local roadways by integrating land
use, redevelopment, and multimodal transportation
strategies to create safer, more connected, and vibrant
urban environments.
Part 2: Smart Streetscapes for Safer, Smarter
Communities
Explore how smart cities technology and data-driven
tools can be used to monitor mobility patterns,
improve operations, and measure the impact of public
investments, providing a consistent framework to guide
future infrastructure decisions and redevelopment
efforts.
9:00 a.m. - 10:15 a.m.
Navigating Evolving CRA Requirements and
Effective Communication
This session will explore ways to utilize free or
affordable tools and ideas for turning your projects into
exciting posts, to share the great work that your CRA is
doing to improve your redevelopment area.
10:15 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.
Refreshment Break in the Exhibit Hall
10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
The Final Countdown: Transitioning Beyond CRA
As the sunset of your Community Redevelopment Area
(CRA) approaches, redevelopment professionals must
navigate a complex landscape to ensure that ongoing
projects are completed, funding is appropriately
allocated, and community goals are met. This session
will provide vital strategies, tools, and insights for
professionals working within CRAs to manage the
transition effectively and with minimal disruption to
redevelopment efforts.
10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
The Pond Awakens: From Stormwater Pond to
Strolling Paths
Learn how to work together with various agencies (FDOT
& City) and multiple departments in the city (CRA, Parks
and Rec, Public Works, Utilities) to redevelop an area, and
talk with the adjacent private property owners for their
buy-in and support of a project.
10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
A Tale of Two CRAs: Using the Federal Brownfields
Program to Boost Redevelopment
In 2023, the Cities of Apopka and Kissimmee joined the
East Central Florida Regional Planning Council’s Resilient
Corridors Brownfields Coalition to fund redevelopment
projects within their CRAs. Learn how both cities have
used this program to boost the redevelopment of catalyst
sites and attract new investment within their districts.
11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Networking Luncheon in the Exhibit Hall
1:00 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Keynote Address
529
#FRA2025 • 7
THE FLOTHE FLORRIDAIDA
ASSOCIATIONASSOCIATION3:00 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Part 1: Enhancing Community Safety: The West Palm
Beach CRA Experience
Learn how the West Palm Beach CRA has significantly
improved security and reduced crime through innovative
initiatives and community partnerships.
Part 2: Crackdown on Carson
Explore the remarkable transformation of Carson
Drive in Fort Walton Beach, showcasing the power of
evidence-based crime prevention design principles.
Once a high-crime area, Carson Drive has evolved into a
safer, more welcoming environment that supports family
living. The session will demonstrate how systematic
application of Crime Prevention Through Environmental
Design (CPTED) principles can dramatically improve
high-crime areas, benefiting the entire community.
3:00 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.
From Empty to Energized: Reclaiming Spaces for
Walkable Vitality
Redevelopment districts can deliver the energy,
connection, and character that draw people in—but
vacant storefronts, empty lots, and underutilized
buildings can quickly drain that momentum. Across
Florida, CRAs are addressing these challenges through
interim uses—strategic activations that bring spaces
back to life over a multi-year horizon. From community
markets and food truck courts to neighborhood hubs,
creative site design, and adaptive reuse, these mid-
term solutions increase foot traffic, improve public
perception, and lay the groundwork for permanent
investment. Learn how communities are leveraging
design-forward strategies and local partnerships to
restore vibrancy, build confidence, and transform vacant
properties into active, valuable assets. Walk away with
actionable ideas and proven tools to turn stalled sites
into walkable destinations that align with your CRA’s
long-term redevelopment goals.
6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
Academy Graduation and Awards Banquet
Help us congratulate our Academy graduates, award
winners, and the 2025-2026 Board of Directors. (This
event is included with a full registration. Guest tickets
are available for an additional fee. See page 9 for
details.)
Keynote Presentation: Inclusive Transportation:
A Manifesto for Repairing Divided Communities
Keynote Speaker: Veronica O. Davis, PE,
Director, Cities Program, AtkinsRéalis
Veronica O. Davis, PE, is a self-
described transportation nerd and
author of “Inclusive Transportation: A Manifesto for
Repairing Divided Communities.” She believes everyone
should have access to safe, reliable, and affordable
transportation.
She is currently the Director of Cities Program for
AtkinsRéalis. She has over 20 years of experience in
civil engineering and planning. Under the Mayor Turner
Administration, she was the Director of Transportation
and Drainage Operations for the City of Houston. She
is also the co-founder and former Managing Partner
at Nspiregreen LLC. She is one of the co-founders of
Black Women Bike (BWB). She was the Vice President
and City of Houston representative on the National
Association of City Transportation Officials.
She earned her dual Master’s Degrees (engineering
management and regional planning) from Cornell
University and a Bachelor of Science in civil engineering
from the University of Maryland. In July 2012, the
White House recognized her as a Champion of Change
and Transportation Innovator for her professional
accomplishments and community advocacy in
transportation.
She currently lives in Baltimore, MD, with her husband
and child.
2:45 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Annual Membership Meeting
3:00 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Counties Can Do Redevelopment Too - The Polk
County Experience
While CRAs tend to be city-oriented, redevelopment
also occurs in counties. Over the past couple of years,
Polk County has reinvigorated its redevelopment efforts
using various methods and techniques. This session will
summarize these efforts and also provide examples of
how to do redevelopment without a CRA.
530
#FRA2025 • 8
THE FLOTHE FLORRIDAIDA
ASSOCIATIONASSOCIATIONFRIDAY, OCTOBER 17, 2025
8:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.
Registration Desk Open
8:30 a.m. - 9:30 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
networking session. Breakout groups will focus on
redevelopment 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
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, recent updates to
Florida Statutes, Chapter 189, and legislation on topics
impacting redevelopment and CRAs.
9:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
Part 1: Unlocking Funding for Redevelopment: Grants,
Incentives, and Creative Strategies
Explore the multifaceted world of funding
redevelopment projects, focusing on securing grants,
offering grants as incentives, and exploring other
innovative funding strategies. Attendees will gain
insights into the latest trends, best practices, and
practical approaches to finance their redevelopment
initiatives effectively with real-life examples of the
positive outcomes.
Part 2: Don’t Take Your Funding for Granted: Using
Grants of All Sizes to Catalyze Redevelopment in
Your CRA
Many CRAs have initiatives aimed at revitalizing the
district and attracting new businesses to the community.
These programs can take the shape of awarding grants
for residences and businesses alike so that they can
make improvements without facing major economic
hardships. Some programs that will be discussed are a
Home Preservation Program, Residential Improvement
Matching Grant, Residential Paint Program, and
Commercial Facade Program. This session will explore
these residential and commercial grant options with
advice on how to successfully implement or revamp
your CRA grant programs.
11:30 a.m.
Conference Adjourns
531
#FRA2025 • 9
THE FLOTHE FLORRIDAIDA
ASSOCIATIONASSOCIATION
Full Name: ____________________________________________ Nickname (for badge): ____________________________
Title: ______________________________________________ Organization: _____________________________________
Email: ___________________________________________________________ Phone: ____________________________
Guest/Spouse** (if purchasing): ____________________________ Nickname (for badge): ___________________________
REGISTRATION TYPE MEMBER NONMEMBER TOTALS
Full Registration (October 14-17, 2025) $395.00 $495.00 ______
Full Registration (October 14-17, 2025 – After September 26) $495.00 $595.00 ______
CRA Board Training Course (October 15 at 8:00 a.m.)$50.00 $50.00 ______
Tour (bus): West Palm Beach/Riviera Beach (October 15 at 7:15 a.m.)$50.00 $50.00 ______
Tour (bus): Delray Beach/Boynton Beach (October 15 at 7:15 a.m.)$50.00 $50.00 ______
Tour (bus): Lake Worth/West Gate (October 15 at 7:15 a.m.)$50.00 $50.00 ______
Tour (walking): City Place/Downtown (October 15 at 7:15 a.m.)$50.00 $50.00 ______
Guest/Spouse Registration** (October 14-17, 2025)$325.00 $325.00 ______
Extra Ticket: Academy Graduation and Awards Banquet (October 16 at 6:30 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 10, 2025.
Registration Deadline: After 5:00 p.m. on September
26, 2025, registrations are subject to a $100.00 fee
increase. Online registration closes on October 10, 2025.
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 September 26, 2025, 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
September 26, 2025, or for early departure from the
conference.
2025 FRA ANNUAL CONFERENCE REGISTRATION FORM
Hilton West Palm Beach • West Palm Beach • October 14-17, 2025
Florida Redevelopment Association
P.O. Box 1757 • Tallahassee, FL • 32302-1757 • 850.701.3636 • mmontgomery@flcities.com
THE FLOTHE FLORRIDAIDA
ASSOCIATIONASSOCIATION
532
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.
19
533
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
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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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