Public Meetings - Boca Raton, Florida

The Boca Raton City Council held its regular meeting on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, beginning at 6:01 p.m. and adjourning at 9:50 p.m. Mayor Andy Thomson, Deputy Mayor Michelle Grau, Council Members Yvette Drucker and Stacy Sipple were present; Council Member Jon Pearlman was absent. The four present council members voted 4-0 on all roll-call council actions; the Sustainability Advisory Board appointment vote was 3-1. Opening and Routine Items - The agenda was amended to postpone Item 11A (Ordinance 5790, Downtown Plan amendment) and Item 11A1 (Resolution 058-2026, Mizner Park intragovernmental conveyance) to the next City Council meeting on November 10, 2026. - Minutes of the October 13, 2026 workshop and regular meetings were approved as presented. Proclamation/Presentation: Memorial Park Engagement and Outreach Strategy - Chen Moore presented the community engagement plan for the Memorial Park master plan, part of the city's broader Boca Forward initiative. The plan uses a listen-first, design-second approach with four phases. - Upcoming engagement includes a 10-question English and Spanish survey via QR codes; public workshops on Saturday, November 14 from 2 to 4 p.m., Tuesday, November 17 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., and Thursday, November 19 at 6:30 p.m. virtually; kiosks at the November 5 Night Market at Sanborn Square and the November 21 holiday tree lighting at Mizner Park; and a three-day design charrette on December 10-12 with open studio hours from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. - A final report and preferred concept are expected by the end of March 2027. Council members did not ask questions. Board Appointments - Public commenter Charles Graves supported incumbent Angela McDonald for the Boca Raton Housing Authority and noted she was the only tenant and resident on the board. - Three applicants were interviewed for two Housing Authority vacancies. Council deferred the appointments to November 10, 2026, after discussion of a legal analysis from Housing Authority counsel questioning Ms. McDonald's eligibility as a subsidized-housing resident commissioner; the city attorney offered to provide her the analysis. - For the Sustainability Advisory Board vacancy, after interviews and a nomination vote, Ellie Shalhoob was appointed by a 3-1 vote over Jason Perry; an expected applicant, Ms. Doherty, was not present to interview. Consent Agenda - No council member removed items. The consent agenda included the sole-source Mack Trucks OEM parts and service agreement budgeted at $400,000, professional services contract authorization, Construction Manager at Risk guaranteed maximum price authorization, police participation in Operation Stonegarden, traffic enforcement agreements, Broward County emergency fire rescue mutual aid, and acceptance of Barry Apfel's resignation. It also included Resolution 121-2026 removing the animal-feeding nuisance violation from the civil penalties schedule. - Public comment included Mark Stahlbaum's objection to the earlier repeal of the animal-feeding ordinance and the process used; Council Member Sipple disputed his account. The consent agenda was approved 4-0. Resolutions and Other Business Resolution 138-2026: Police Headquarters General Obligation Bond Referendum - Staff presented the resolution to authorize up to $125 million in general obligation bonds and call a March 9, 2027 referendum for construction of a new Police Department Headquarters and related public safety facilities. Staff said a downtown police presence would be maintained, but the specific site and design would come later; the Financial Advisory Board recommended the $125 million amount. - Public comment included opposition to the lack of a committed site and suggestions to select the site before the referendum, as well as support citing the current headquarters' hurricane, rail, and security vulnerabilities. The resolution was approved 4-0. Resolution 139-2026: Single-Family Residential Height Code Clarification - The City Attorney explained that the resolution memorializes existing code meaning, not a new height rule: single-family buildings generally are limited to 25 feet with specified allowances for qualifying roof portions. Staff said five applications were pending, four prior to October 13 and one submitted later. - Numerous residents and representatives spoke. Some developers and homeowners opposed the interpretation and asked that pending and contracted projects be grandfathered; neighbors and residents supported enforcement and cited the ordinance author's testimony. Developer Mark Elkman said he would downsize the 1300 Coconut Road home from three stories to two; his attorney clarified this was conditioned on pending pipeline projects being allowed to proceed. - Council added a transition provision before adoption: the clarified direction applies to future applications and any development configuration first properly submitted on or after October 27, 2026, but does not apply to a specific configuration properly submitted before that date if the application remains pending and actively pursued, unless withdrawn, abandoned, materially revised, or affirmatively discontinued. The amended resolution was approved 4-0. Resolution 140-2026: Interim City Manager - The City Council appointed James L. Zervis as interim City Manager, effective with the transition, with related transition matters. Public comments thanked outgoing City Manager Mark Sohaney and supported Mr. Zervis. The resolution was approved 4-0. Quasi-Judicial Public Hearing: Resolution 132-2026 - The Bertani at Broken Sound - The Council considered a site plan amendment for approximately 11 acres at 5901 and 6001 NW Broken Sound Parkway. The proposal includes a new 8-story, 60-unit multifamily building of about 139,663 square feet with six affordable units, an integrated one-level parking structure, a separate parking structure, a 2,664-square-foot retail and restaurant building, related on-site and off-site improvements, and abandonment of a portion of a 12-foot easement. - Staff recommended approval; the Community Appearance Board recommended approval 5-0 and the Planning and Zoning Board recommended approval 6-0. Staff asked that two conditions be amended: one crosswalk removal reference should say the 6001 property rather than the 5901 property, and certain references to existing office buildings should be deleted from the resident amenity declaration. - The Mayor disclosed prior ex parte conversations with applicant representatives. Public comment was generally supportive. The Council approved Resolution 132-2026 4-0 with the staff-recommended condition amendments. Regular Public Hearings Ordinance 5810: C&D Debris Franchise Agreement with Dr. Rubble - The Council authorized a non-exclusive Construction and Demolition debris collection and disposal franchise agreement with Danco LLC d/b/a Dr. Rubble. Staff described it as the 17th franchise under identical terms to prior agreements. Approved 4-0. Ordinance 5811: Repeal of Chapter 18, Vehicles for Hire - The Council repealed Chapter 18 in its entirety. Staff said state law now allows vehicles-for-hire approval in one jurisdiction to apply statewide, and Palm Beach County provides the necessary driver background checks and vehicle inspections. Approved 4-0. Public Requests - Bonnie Miskill, speaking on behalf of the contract purchaser of the Mizner Park ground lease, offered to assist staff with document review and urged adequate time before action on the postponed items. - Jerry Liguri presented a conceptual Addison Village vision for the Civic Area and Memorial Park redevelopment and noted community outreach. - Pam Hashkey urged residents to vote, opposed Florida property tax amendment 3, and criticized gerrymandering. - Richard Warner criticized the Addison Village concept and also urged voters to repudiate the former mayor. - Earl Starkov asked that the $225,000 11-building review cost information be made public before final Memorial Park engagement. - Martha Parker reported a homeless encampment near Library Commons and asked the city to follow up with Brightline on security obligations; the Mayor said staff would follow up. - Mark Stahlbaum returned to the podium to object to being called a bully and to council decorum. - Alexandra Abelo requested city and fire department clarification of enforcement at Red Reef beach and criticized Planning and Zoning Board approvals. - Martin Bell urged consideration of a low-cost golf course at North Park, arguing it would be incremental to required park improvements. - Fran Knackless thanked Council Member Drucker for her service. - Jonathan Unjon suggested a city ordinance protecting public spaces, raised questions about the FY 2025-2026 Third Budget Amendment, and asked for transparency on a $105 million pension-to-general-fund movement. Introduction of Ordinances, Reports, and Adjournment - Ordinance 5812, the FY 2025-2026 Third Budget Amendment, was introduced by Council Member Drucker. - City Manager Sohaney gave farewell remarks praising staff and the community. - City Attorney Kaler had no report. - Council Member Grau asked to revisit a previously deferred appointment; staff described a timeline with applications open until November 13, interviews on November 23, and an appointment on November 24. - Council Member Drucker noted this was her last City Council meeting and said she would give fuller remarks later. The meeting adjourned at 9:50 p.m. Key Outcomes - Agenda amended; minutes approved; consent agenda approved. - Resolution 138-2026 adopted 4-0; referendum set for March 9, 2027. - Resolution 139-2026 adopted as amended 4-0, with pre-October 27 applications protected if actively pursued. - Resolution 140-2026 adopted 4-0, appointing James L. Zervis interim City Manager. - Resolution 132-2026 adopted 4-0 with staff's condition changes. - Ordinance 5810 adopted 4-0. - Ordinance 5811 adopted 4-0. - Housing Authority appointments deferred to November 10, 2026; Ellie Shalhoob appointed to the Sustainability Advisory Board by a 3-1 vote. - Ordinance 5812 was introduced. - A timeline was outlined for the previously deferred appointment.

The Boca Raton City Council held a workshop on Monday, October 26, 2026. The agenda listed a 3:30 p.m. start; the transcript states the time as 3:26 p.m., and the meeting adjourned at 4:00 p.m. The workshop covered interviews for several city boards, a Boca Raton Garden Club presentation, one public request, and council and staff discussion of beach parking, an MPO vacancy, and the holiday parade. Board Interviews - Affordable Housing Advisory Committee: No applicants; the vacancy remains open. - Boca Raton Housing Authority: Four applicants interviewed: - George Brown — a 50-year resident and former city employee for 42 years (1977–2026), with Housing Authority management responsibility from 1994 to 2003 and service as city liaison until October 2025. - Sharon Lovett — a new Boca Raton resident with more than 20 years in Palm Beach County; shared her community mental health, ministry, and counseling background and said she sees the appointment as an open door. - Ben Nyberg — founder of Hope Housing Alliance, a nonprofit affordable housing developer; said affordable housing is deeply personal because his grandparents lived in Section 8 housing, and cited experience with housing finance, development, and RAD transactions. - Wendy Marcellus — a current Boca Raton Housing Authority Choice Voucher Program participant and Voices Committee member; described her background as a home health aide and nursing student. - Community Appearance Board and Financial Advisory Board: No applicants. - Sustainability Advisory Board: Two applicants interviewed: - Eli Shalhoub — an environmental engineer with an MIT degree and MBA, and more than 30 years in water and wastewater treatment; offered practical experience in water reuse, stormwater, and water quality. - Jason Pear — a managing attorney at NextEra Energy; cited sea level rise, coastal flooding, and the city’s 2030 sustainability plan as key reasons for applying. Proclamations & Presentations - Pam John, with the Boca Raton Garden Club ornament team, presented the club’s 2026 holiday ornament, commemorating the Sugar Sand Park carousel. The ornament is solid brass with 24 karat gold overlay and costs $28, serving as the Garden Club’s major fundraiser in its 73-year history with the city. John noted the carousel averages 10,070 riders per month, was supported by a $40,000 centennial contribution from the Rotary Clubs, and will mark its 20th anniversary on December 13 with a holiday toy drive. Public Requests & Testimony - Richard Warner, a city resident, requested that the City Council consider adopting a resolution not to accept campaign contributions from developers or anyone doing business with the city, citing the upcoming elections and the idea that all politics is local. Discussion Items - Councilmember Graham reported resident concerns about metered beach parking at A1A and Palmetto Park Road, where the time limit had been reduced from one hour to 30 minutes, and said she favored changing it back to one hour. - Councilmember Sipple said she had received multiple emails and phone calls asking for a two-hour limit and complaints about the higher hourly rate along 40th Street, where the metered beach area lacks amenities such as a bathroom. She also mentioned the dog beach rate had doubled. - City staff explained that the parking changes were made to align metered rates with daily beach parking rates, and that the 30-minute limit was intended for short visits to enjoy the ocean view. Staff said changing the A1A/Palmetto Park Road limit back to one hour was operationally simple and had no significant financial impact. The Mayor said he was not ready to decide immediately and would give the matter further thought, with possible discussion the next day. - Councilmember Graham also noted the need to fill the MPO seat left by Councilwoman Drucker. The Mayor said they should determine the next MPO meeting date and act before it to retain the city’s second representative. - Councilmember Graham asked about Federal Highway construction and the holiday parade. City staff said the FDOT construction will affect the parade route, and an alternative downtown route is being reviewed and will be publicized soon. Key Outcomes - Board appointments for the Boca Raton Housing Authority, Sustainability Advisory Board, and other interviewed boards will be made at the following evening’s meeting; no appointments were made during the workshop. - No final decision was made on metered beach parking; staff offered to restore the one-hour limit at A1A/Palmetto Park Road, and council discussion may continue tomorrow. - The city will review and publicize an alternative holiday parade route due to FDOT construction on Federal Highway. - The meeting adjourned at 4:00 p.m., with the council scheduled to reconvene at 6:00 p.m. for a joint meeting with the BPD.

The Boca Raton Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) convened on October 26, 2026, from 1:30 PM to 3:14 PM. Chair Andy Thomson presided over the meeting. Commissioners present were Vice Chair Yvette Drucker, Michelle Grau, and Stacy Sipple. Commissioner Jon Pearlman was absent despite being listed on the agenda. The meeting addressed two quasi-judicial development amendments, a proposed transfer of Mizner Park property to the City, and public requests regarding downtown planning. Consent Calendar - Minutes of the October 13, 2026, CRA regular meeting were adopted unanimously (motion by Vice Chair Yvette Drucker, second by Commissioner Stacy Sipple). Public Comments & Testimony - The Residences of Boca (CRP-22-01-R1): - Glenn Groman (former P&Z Board member, DBAC chair) expressed strong support, stating the project was fully code-compliant and architecturally superior. - Jonathan Rungeon (6501 Congress Ave) expressed support for the amendment because it reduces density (190 to 133 units), converts to condos, and reduces traffic trips. - 101 E Palmetto Park Road (CRP-24-02): - No public speakers testified. - Mizner Park Property Transfer (Resolutions 2026-09-CRA & 2026-05-CRA): - Ellie Zacharitis (applicant representative) spoke as a resident opposing the transfer. She argued the CRA needs the $3 million annual ground rent for critical downtown projects and that moving the funds was "heartbreaking" for the downtown's future. - Richard Warner (1322 SW 9th Ter) expressed strong support for the transfer, stating it was a vital step to stop the CRA's perceived damage to downtown and to bring the land under the "Save Boca" ordinance. - Fran Knackless (Bike & Pedestrian Advisory Board) opposed the transfer, citing that CRA funds essential safety infrastructure (lit crosswalks costing $80,000 each) and police enforcement. - Alessandro Caicedo opposed the transfer, arguing downtown Boca lacks identity and needs the funds captured within the CRA. - Joseph Graubart questioned whether downtown property owners in the special assessment district were specifically notified; staff confirmed standard public hearing notice was provided. - Jonathan Rungeon suggested the simpler solution was to amend the "Save Boca" referendum to explicitly include CRA land rather than executing a complex property transfer. - Public Requests (Item 8): - Earl Starkov requested council modernize traffic impact standards to measure cumulative area-wide mobility, using existing Florida law, within a four-week timeline. - Joseph Graubart used a damaged guardrail from a 2023 crash to illustrate neglected CRA-area infrastructure. - Richard Warner reiterated support for the property transfer. - Jonathan Rungeon urged broader discussion on the downtown's future as the DDRI expires. Discussion Items - The Residences of Boca (CRP-22-01-R1): Staff (Susan Lesser) detailed the amendment: reduce units from 190 to 133, add a 5,977 sq ft restaurant, increase height by 6.5 ft, and add valet parking. The project meets all code requirements (40% open space, 322 parking spaces). Boards recommended approval 5-0 and 6-0. Applicant (Philip Bronstein, Wexford) highlighted full code compliance, tax revenue increase ($1.2 million city, $5.5 million total taxing authorities), 35 of 45 buyers local, and infrastructure improvements (utility undergrounding, alley paving). Commissioner questions covered mechanical parking and trash pickup schedules. - 101 E Palmetto Park Road (CRP-24-02): Staff (Jake McGurman) presented the revised adaptive reuse of a historic building. The project removed previously planned affordable housing, retaining office on the second floor and adding a ground-floor restaurant. A technical deviation for zero parking was requested. Applicant (Ellie Zacharitis) highlighted a robust TDM plan (100% Tri-Rail/Palm Tran passes, 25% Brightline subsidy, annual Circuit contribution 3x higher than typical downtown developments). Commissioners noted the transit value. - Mizner Park Property Transfer (Resolutions 2026-09-CRA & 2026-05-CRA): Staff (Deputy City Manager George Zervis) explained the resolutions would transfer CRA Mizner Park property to the City. This moves $3 million annual ground lease revenue from the TIF-restricted CRA fund to the general fund for broader downtown spending and subjects the land to the "Save Boca" ordinance. Staff emphasized the transfer does not affect existing ground leases. Commissioner Drucker opposed the transfer, arguing the downtown needs dedicated funding and is "dying." Chair Thomson expressed concern about the impact on the City and CRA's bonding capacity, successfully moving to postpone the items for further research. Commissioner Sipple voted against the postponement, arguing it could miss the December deadline to directly amend the "Save Boca" referendum to protect CRA land. Key Outcomes - CRP-22-01-R1 (The Residences of Boca): Approved 4-0. - CRP-24-02 (101 E Palmetto Park Road): Approved 4-0. - Resolutions 2026-09-CRA (Downtown Plan Amendment) & 2026-05-CRA (Property Conveyance): Postponed 3-1 to the November 9/10, 2026 CRA meeting. Staff directed to analyze the impact on bonding capacity. Commissioner Stacy Sipple dissented from the postponement. - Next Steps: Staff to research and report on bonding impact. Commissioner Sipple noted concern the postponement could thwart efforts to bring CRA land under the "Save Boca" ordinance.

On October 26, 2026, the Boca Raton City Council and the Greater Boca Raton Beach & Park District held a joint meeting at 6500 Congress Avenue Auditorium. Mayor Andy Thomson and District Chair Robert K. Rollins, Jr. presided. The agenda scheduled the meeting from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.; discussion continued to roughly 8:20 p.m. The last joint meeting was in 2023. Public comment was moved up before council and board discussion so attendees could be heard. No formal votes were taken. Parks, Recreation & Community Investment Presentation - City Manager Mark Sahaney and Deputy City Manager Amy Lucasik introduced the presentation and noted strong staff-level collaboration between the city and district. Lucasik described the present as a 'crossroads moment' for recreation, with many aging parks and major upcoming capital projects. - Recreation Services Director Greg Stevens and District Executive Director Brianne Harms explained the partnership: the city is a five-member elected council that owns and operates recreation assets, while the district is an independent special taxing district created by a 1974 special act of the Legislature, with a five-member elected board and a service area that includes unincorporated areas. The district owns several parks, funds city-owned parks, and funds operations and capital projects. - The district's history included protecting Red Reef Park from development, acquiring Patch Reef Park, Sugar Sand Park, the Swim & Racquet Center, and Ocean Strand, and helping fund Countess de Hoernle Park. North Park, formerly the Ocean Breeze property, was purchased by the district in 2018. - The partnership is governed by multiple interlocal agreements (ILAs) adopted over decades. Staff said the framework works but is inconsistent; they are inventorying ILAs, identifying gaps and conflicts, and developing a framework to simplify, modernize, and make administration consistent - not to renegotiate them. Gumbo Limbo's ILA was inherited from the school district, and the dog park at Maisner Bark has no ILA. - Current projects presented included: North Park east side under construction with trails, playground, dog park, fitness pavilions, restrooms, skate park, pump track, and Boca Paddle; soil mitigation and permits are underway, with coordination on the Jeffree Street construction project. The renovated Patch Reef Community Center opened as the Community Accessibility Program Center; 26 families visited on its first Saturday. Patch Reef pro shop/tennis court work, Sugar Sand multi-sport rink shade, Willow Theater improvements, fuel load reduction, playground resurfacing, and trail signage were also listed. At the Swim & Racquet Center, the pedestrian bridge is being replaced and six tennis courts are being lit. De Hoernle Park is seeking architect/engineer firms for design. - City projects included the Gopher Tortoise Preserve, a $700,000 grant-funded project opened July 27, 2026, with 11 acres of scrub habitat, a quarter-mile nature trail, 900 feet of ADA-accessible paths, parking, bike racks, and an educational kiosk; the $1.2 million Lake Wyman Park Playground, a 10,000-square-foot ADA-compliant playground opening in late October/early November 2026; and Gumbo Limbo Nature Center improvements, including a $330,000 decking replacement opened September 10, 2026, a new wild backyard exhibit, ADA pathways, aquarium lighting, and concrete/window repairs. - Lucasik outlined the future 'BOCA Forward' recreation system assessment and master planning process: phase one is listening, learning, and assessing community needs, existing assets, utilization, capacity, and future demand; phase two is a master plan to prioritize capital and programming investments. He said Memorial Park planning and the district's golf sustainability analysis would feed into this process. Public Comments & Testimony - Larry Milkey urged the city to add golf at North Park, saying golf was promised years ago and residents need an affordable place for grandchildren and families; he asked for at least nine holes and opposed being directed to Red Reef. - William Beakley and Anna Munoz Gregory, co-presidents of Club Athletes Without Limits at St. Andrew School, supported an indoor athletic pavilion/field house, citing full programs, disabled athletes on waitlists, volunteer readiness, and economic benefits from youth sports travel. - Robert Ducate supported 18 holes of golf at North Park, citing tee-time shortages at the Boca Raton Golf & Racquet Club and citywide survey results listing trails, green space, and golf as top priorities. - Harold Chaffee, president of Keep Golf in Boca, said golf has been forgotten, urged a decision to use North Park/Ocean Breeze's remaining green space for golf, and criticized years of talk without action. - Kennedy Rask, a student, asked for more affordable places for middle-school-age kids to hang out, including rock climbing and golf. - Joel Rask supported a field house and golf for kids, saying youth programs are using school space, the need has been delayed for years, and further studies are a waste of time and money. - Adam Beakley, a director of the Boca Raton Basketball Club, supported a field house; he said the club grew from 800 to 1,200 kids, with 85 percent district residents, and that limited gym space has pushed volleyball privatization. - Michelle Haggerty, founder of Power of Sports, proposed a state-of-the-art indoor field house and offered to explore a naming-rights partnership called the Power of Sports Field House, emphasizing access for children of all abilities, tournament economics, and public/private/philanthropic funding. - Brian Clinton supported rescuing the Boca Jets Lacrosse program, saying a plan was prepared after administrative issues and that without immediate action hundreds of families could leave the city. - John Pellegrino supported golf and asked the city to work with other jurisdictions on a dangerous U-turn issue near Costco and Boca Club. - Michael Schneider supported a nine-hole golf course with an internal control at the 10th hole, a community center, park closing times, and FAU financial participation. - Bobby Epstein supported a nine-hole course with a lit driving range, clubhouse, wedge/practice area, and putting green at North Park; he cited $7-9 million construction estimates, $68 million from the municipal course sale with about $49 million remaining, revenue potential, and FAU interest. - JP Pilot supported golf at North Park, comparing Ann Arbor's seven city courses to Boca's two and calling it a multigenerational opportunity. - Earl Starkov asked the city and district to make urban forestry an ongoing capital improvement program with a five-year plan and annual funding, citing the 2021 Tree Canopy Assessment and Boca's 'city in a park' identity. - Greg Galanis, president of the Boca Golf Association, said the city lost nine holes when it sold Boca Municipal for $65.7 million, that golf demand has grown more than 20 percent while population grew by over 4,000 residents, that golf capacity fell 25 percent, and that existing courses are over capacity and in disrepair. - Tom Whitmer supported golf at North Park, describing the loss of the executive course and an estimated 7,500-10,000 lost rounds, and the need for a middle-ground course for seniors and juniors. - Dave Morantz supported a public golf course as a legacy amenity and said publicly owned courses should be part of the community. - Linda Morganstarn asked the city to review recreational noise, especially pickleball conversions, and suggested a committee or professional study addressing setbacks, sound standards, hours, acoustical studies, and mitigation. - Chase Maher supported a community/family golf center at North Park, saying his family currently drives to West Palm Beach and Lake Worth because Red Reef lacks the practice/putting amenities. - Monica Mazgo said the city is becoming too development-focused and that active listening should not rely only on QR codes; she described her HOA fight over noisy pickleball and warned of lawsuits. - Martin Bell asked the city to keep and refurbish the downtown skate park, citing 50 years of skateboarding history, and proposed creating green space at the old library/base building parcel instead of a police station. - Fran Knackless, a new golfer, supported golf at North Park and said the city and district should work together to create a welcoming course like the one in West Palm Beach. - Mickey Gomez supported annual joint meetings and vouched for Brian Clinton's Boca Jets Lacrosse program, noting CEOs wanted lacrosse for college scholarship opportunities. - Mark Griffith said a previous 'Boca National' golf plan was derailed by a donation from Mr. Dell; he supported a field house if kept available to the community. - Kathy Fernley supported golf but suggested a YMCA-style indoor facility as a more affordable alternative if golf is not built. - Charles Boyd supported more public/executive golf, noting the loss of the Boca Raton Executive course and that he now travels to Delray Beach. - Judy Morrill supported golf and lifelong sports, and asked for four covered tennis courts for the community. - Shannon Otto praised Boca's outdoor parks and asked the city to continue preserving natural green space. - Brianna Hanquist advocated for underserved recreation: an e-bike trail, paddle ball courts, flag football for girls, and sports programs for differently abled residents of all ages. Council and District Board Discussion - City Manager Mark Sahaney listed current city priorities: Memorial Park work with consultant Chen Moore, a police headquarters bond referendum in March, and a joint city-district recreation master plan to be developed by March. - Council members expressed support for more frequent joint meetings, with one suggesting at least twice a year. Several supported a field house and called for action on golf rather than more studies. One council member said the city should honor the commitment to bring golf back after selling the municipal course and asked staff to explore city participation in a district field house. Another council member said golf is needed but the type of course must be assessed, and noted budget uncertainty from Amendment 3. - District Chair Rollins highlighted the new Community Accessibility Program Center and the district's recent work, and said the board has discussed a facilities assessment of existing golf courses and a possible short course at North Park. - District commissioner Aaron credited staff for successful projects, asked the city to streamline permitting for district projects, and said the district's current top two funded priorities are a field house and phase two, each with $10 million set aside, with no money currently allocated for golf. Aaron also cited 65 percent resident utilization at Red Reef and the Boca course and said the district is assessing what type of golf best fits the remaining green space, including increasing resident utilization. - Another district commissioner asked for resident-utilization data to be broken out to include district residents in the unincorporated service area. A third commissioner emphasized guiding principles of low-cost access, support for volunteers, and a possible Beach & Park District role in Memorial Park. A fourth district commissioner said she had received more than 60 emails supporting golf and other recreation, offered volunteer professional help, and suggested a joint city-district field house could free up funds for golf. - Mayor Thomson said he is open to a golf component at North Park, but does not see the city paying for it because the district owns the property and the city does not fund district projects. He pointed to the West Palm Beach park as an example of a privately funded family-friendly golf course, with $55 million raised from private donors, and said he would welcome a similar model. He supported exploring a joint field house with the district and noted interest from Michelle Hagerty in a philanthropic/naming partnership. Key Outcomes - No formal votes, ordinances, or resolutions were taken at the joint meeting. - Staff will continue reviewing and modernizing the interlocal agreements and will proceed with a joint recreation system assessment and master planning process under the 'BOCA Forward' umbrella. - The district will continue its golf facilities assessment, including the existing courses and the potential for a short/executive course at North Park; the city will revisit golf feasibility after Amendment 3 and the recreation master plan are clearer. - The city and district will explore a jointly supported field house, including philanthropic/naming-rights participation, with the district having $10 million allocated for a field house. - The city and district agreed to hold joint meetings more regularly, with at least one to be scheduled in the near term. - Chen Moore was scheduled to present the Memorial Park community engagement plan to the City Council on October 27, 2026.

The Boca Raton City Council held its regular meeting on Tuesday, October 13, 2026. The portion of the meeting reflected in the transcript convened at approximately 1:05 PM and adjourned at 2:15 PM. Mayor Andy Thomson presided except during the Park Tower quasi-judicial hearing, when he recused himself because his law firm leases office space in a building proposed for demolition; Deputy Mayor Michelle Grau presided over that item. The Council removed the 1150 Innovation Center items from the agenda, adopted minutes and the consent agenda, acted on a removed consent item, held two regular public hearings, introduced three ordinances, and heard public requests. Consent Calendar - The Council approved the consent agenda, minus item B, by a 5–0 vote. Approved items included the Stryker stretcher/power cots purchase ($345,000); furniture supply and installation services ($275,000); office supplies with ODP Business Solutions ($230,000); and Resolutions 124-2026 (March 9, 2027 municipal election), 125-2026 (Black & Veatch raw water wells/transmission main work), 126-2026 and 127-2026 (asphalt paving and sidewalk construction services), 129-2026 (Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 35 one-year collective bargaining agreement), and 130-2026 (Sutphen aerial ladder truck purchase). Councilmember Drucker specifically thanked staff and police for the FOP agreement. - The minutes of the September 22, 2026 workshop meeting, regular meeting, and final budget hearing were adopted without correction. Item 8B: Revocable Parking License – Fletchers Restaurant (Resolution 123-2026) - Staff described a three-year revocable license granting Fletchers Restaurant, LLC four valet parking spaces on First Avenue, from 5:00 PM to midnight, at $7,700 per space per year. Staff said the rate was calculated using the current policy of requested hours times the applicable area rate, essentially assuming continuous occupancy during charged hours. - Councilmember Drucker objected to treating private use of public meter spaces as routine, cited a comparable arrangement she said generated approximately $1 million per year for 98 spaces, and asked staff to develop a market-value methodology for future arrangements. - The Council approved Resolution 123-2026 by a 3–2 vote: yes – Drucker, Pearlman, Thomson; no – Grau, Sipple. Quasi-Judicial Public Hearing: Park Tower at Broken Sound (Resolution 122-2026) - Staff presented the site plan amendment for 1075 and 1095 NW Broken Sound Parkway, an approximately 5.03-acre property zoned LIRP with a CIMD. The proposal would replace the existing one-story industrial building with an eight-story, 97-unit, approximately 185,219-square-foot multifamily residential building, including 10% affordable housing units (10 units), an integrated two-level approximately 89,976-square-foot parking structure, and a separate 2,100-square-foot retail/restaurant building. The existing three-story office building would remain. - Staff recommended approval with conditions, including revising parapets from five feet six inches to five feet, enclosing the exterior staircase, replacing the existing FICUS trees if they die, and conducting a post-occupancy study of the new four-leg intersection. Staff said the project was recommended for approval by the Planning and Zoning Board on October 1, 2026, by a 5–0 vote. - Applicant Carl Anthony Klepper said the project requests no variances or technical deviations, provides 363 parking spaces versus 354 required, includes 10 affordable units at 120% of Palm Beach County AMI, and would add only one AM peak trip and six PM peak trips compared with the existing use. - Ex parte communications were disclosed: Councilmember Drucker reported a meeting, property visit, text, and phone call; Deputy Mayor Grau reported a meeting scheduled and then cancelled. The City Clerk administered the oath to potential speakers. - Mayor Thomson recused himself and did not participate. The Council approved Resolution 122-2026 by a 3–1 vote: yes – Sipple, Grau, Drucker; no – Pearlman; Thomson recused. Public Comments & Testimony - Earl Starkov favored the Park Tower project because it is code-compliant, but raised concerns about traffic and parking perceptions in the Park of Commerce and called for an updated citywide strategic plan. - Richard Warner called the Park Tower project 'harmless' but criticized the lack of workforce housing, arguing the city should not keep developing without housing for people who work in the community. - Mike Liebelson praised the applicant for presenting directly and for requesting no variances, supported the project, and urged the city to conduct comprehensive traffic planning, hire its own traffic engineers, and fund such work through developer contributions. - During public requests, Mike Liebelson repeated his call for a citywide traffic study and workshop. Raquel Paul proposed making the city of Boca Raton the obligee on construction bonds to prevent unfinished projects. Fran Knackless asked how many CIMD residential units remain after this approval. Shannon Otto raised safety concerns about fast e-bikes, wheelies, and riders who are not licensed or visible, and asked for licensing and age standards. - Richard Warner also applauded the repeal of the nuisance-animal feeding ordinance, calling it unenforceable and a misuse of code enforcement resources. Regular Public Hearings - Ordinance 5808: The Council adopted the ordinance increasing the City Manager's settlement authority from $50,000 to $100,000, updating a 1998 limit. There was no public comment. The vote was 5–0. - Ordinance 5809: The Council repealed Ordinance 5792, which prohibited feeding certain nuisance animals, and removed the related direct-citation enforcement provision. Councilmember Sipple and Deputy Mayor Grau said the original ordinance stemmed from an isolated neighborhood dispute, created selective enforcement concerns, and was not good citywide policy. Mayor Thomson proposed an amendment to strike only the pigeon-feeding prohibition while retaining bans on feeding iguanas, rats, and mice, but the amendment died for lack of a second. The Council then adopted the full repeal by a 4–1 vote: yes – Grau, Drucker, Pearlman, Sipple; no – Thomson. Introduction of Ordinances - Ordinance 5790, introduced by Councilmember Drucker, would amend the Downtown Plan to add a policy promoting long-term certainty, stability, and continuity in the ownership and stewardship of CRA-owned property, including Mizner Park. - Ordinance 5810, introduced by Deputy Mayor Grau, would authorize a non-exclusive Construction and Demolition Debris Collection and Disposal Services Franchise Agreement with Denco LLC d/b/a Dr Rubble. - Ordinance 5811, introduced by the Mayor, would repeal Chapter 18, 'Vehicles for Hire,' in its entirety. Reports and Announcements - City Manager George Sohaney reported that staff toured Memorial Park to understand existing conditions, emphasized the importance of community input, and stated renovation work is targeting readiness for Q1 or Q2 2027. He also announced the city's first 'HAL OWEAN' pet-friendly event. - Deputy Mayor Grau announced a joint meeting with the Beach and Parks District on October 26 at 6:00 PM. Councilmember Drucker noted an upcoming second annual mobility day, with an approximate time of 4:30–6:30 PM. Key Outcomes - Removed the 1150 Innovation Center agenda items (Resolutions 77-2026 and 78-2026). - Approved the consent agenda minus item B by a 5–0 vote. - Approved Resolution 123-2026 for the Fletchers Restaurant parking license by a 3–2 vote. - Approved Resolution 122-2026 for Park Tower at Broken Sound by a 3–1 vote, with Mayor Thomson recused. - Adopted Ordinance 5808 by a 5–0 vote and Ordinance 5809 by a 4–1 vote. - Introduced Ordinances 5790, 5810, and 5811. - The proposed amendment to Ordinance 5809 to preserve the iguanas, rats, and mice feeding prohibitions while removing only the pigeon prohibition failed for lack of a second.

The Boca Raton City Council held a workshop on Tuesday, October 13, 2026. The primary discussions focused on the ballot language for a police services complex bond referendum, the process for filling a city council seat vacancy, and a code interpretation issue regarding residential building heights raised during public comment. Public Comments & Testimony - Raquel Paul expressed concern that Amendment 3 would harm city services like police and fire, questioning if a special assessment would be needed to cover the shortfall. - Bob Sweet Apple urged the council to workshop a development plan for a client's property at Fifth Avenue and Palmetto Park Road, warning of commercial development as a matter of right. - Richard Warner stated the bond would fail without a clear downtown location and opposed appointing a council member, advocating for voters to decide in the March election. - Shannon Otto supported appointing Mike Liebelson to the vacant council seat. - Will Bordelon, Joe Liguri, and Dr. Sternbach (coordinated) challenged the city's interpretation of Ordinance 5086, arguing it was never intended to authorize habitable living space above 25 feet in R1 districts. They requested a clarifying ordinance and a temporary pause on approvals for a home at 1300 Coconut Road. - George Camao (former Community Development Director and P&Z Board member) supported the residents' interpretation, stating Ordinance 5086 was strictly for roof lines, not additional floors. - Greg Galanus requested the city collaborate with the Beach and Park District to build a nine-hole golf course at North Park, citing high demand (48.1 million U.S. golfers in 2025, up 41% since 2019). - Mike Liebelson supported Option 4 for the bond but wanted clearer location details for voters. He advocated for bond flexibility for early pay-off and referenced potential savings from the county MSTU framework. - Alexandra Abelo supported Amendment 3 and appointed Mike Liebelson to the vacancy. - Ms. Morrow supported the nine-hole golf course, lower downtown height limits, and a downtown police station. Discussion Items - Police Services Complex Bond Referendum: City Manager Sohane presented four options for the $125 million general obligation bond ballot language. Option 4, staff's recommendation, explicitly ensures a dedicated downtown police facility while keeping the specific location open for a future decision. Councilmembers Thompson, Growe, Drucker, Sippel, and Perlman all expressed support for Option 4. - City Council Seat C Vacancy: Council discussed whether to appoint a temporary replacement for Councilmember Drucker, whose resignation takes effect November 10. Mayor Thompson favored a caretaker appointment, while Councilmembers Growe and Sippel opposed filling the seat. Councilmember Drucker provided input on her resignation date and the process. No consensus was reached. - R1 Building Height Code Interpretation: Following public testimony, Council directed the City Attorney to review the city's interpretation of residential height restrictions in R1 districts regarding habitable space above 25 feet. City Attorney Kaler advised that while the council could state an interpretation, a formal procedural mechanism with proper notice is necessary for enforceability and to avoid litigation. Key Outcomes - Police Bond: Council directed staff to return a resolution with the Option 4 ballot language for a vote at the October 27 meeting. - Council Vacancy: The council decided against pursuing a temporary appointment process. The seat will remain vacant until the March 2027 election. - Building Heights: The City Attorney was directed to research the appropriate legal mechanism to clarify the building code regarding habitable space in R1 districts. Staff noted the contested permit at 1300 Coconut Road remains under review. A report back is scheduled for the October 27 meeting.

The Boca Raton Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) met on October 13, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 10:50 AM at the Auditorium, 6500 N. Congress Avenue, Boca Raton. The sole substantive action was unanimous approval of CRP-25-01, an Individual Development Approval (IDA) for The Sanborn, an eight-story private club at 100 Northeast 1st Avenue. The meeting also approved prior meeting minutes; no other agenda items or reports were presented. Minutes Approval - The CRA unanimously approved the minutes of its regular meeting of September 22, 2026, with no revisions. Discussion Items - Quasi-judicial hearing CRP-25-01 – The Sanborn: Members disclosed ex parte communications with the applicant and counsel; Commissioner Pearlman reported none. The City Attorney reviewed quasi-judicial procedures, including applicant disclosure of any consideration. - Staff presentation (Senior Planner Jacob German): The 0.31-acre site (agenda lists 0.30 acres) at 100 NE 1st Ave currently holds a two-story building dated to 1948. The project would demolish it and construct an approximately 54,681 sq ft private club with an approximately 11,200 sq ft below-grade, fully automated valet parking structure containing 85 spaces. It includes a transfer of development from Downtown Subarea D to Subarea B and a use conversion in Subarea B from 31,979 sq ft of office (including 8,188 sq ft of on-site office to be demolished) to 40,453 sq ft of retail (medium), leaving about 0 sq ft of office-equivalent development in Subarea B and about 254,833 sq ft in Subarea D. - Parking: Staff determined 183 spaces are required under DDRI shared parking methodology (279 without sharing). The project provides 85 on-site spaces and would use off-site spaces at the nearby Oletto/Aletto project under construction about 60 feet south. Availability was described by time windows: 206 spaces weekdays 6 PM–midnight when 81 off-site spaces are required; 348 spaces weekends 9 AM–4 PM when 13 off-site spaces are required; and 212 spaces weekends 6 PM–midnight when 98 off-site spaces are required. Open space proposed is 5,549 sq ft against a 5,265 sq ft requirement. Staff recommended approval, noting the Planning and Zoning Board voted 5-0 to recommend approval on October 1, 2026; staff did not include the Community Appearance Board's suggested larger-paver condition due to maintenance, ADA, and consistency concerns. - Applicant presentation (Ellie Zacharitis, counsel/lobbyist): The project is an as-of-right development requiring no variances or relief. The club would include a second car elevator, emergency generator backup, 2–3 minute valet retrieval times, and uses such as spa, gym, restaurants, lounge/card room, and a roof deck; the seventh floor would be mechanical. Applicant stated there is no fixed member cap yet and parking is calculated use-by-use. - Commissioner discussion: Questions addressed pavers, parking agreement terms (stated to be in perpetuity and binding on successors), maximum occupancy (to be determined during construction drawings), elevator failure/backup, contingency if the Oletto garage is not built (applicant must find and obtain CRA approval for alternative parking before a certificate of occupancy), and membership size (undetermined). Vice Chair Drucker commented that downtown parking requirements are excessive and create more traffic. Public Comments & Testimony - David Aver Abers indicated support by a thumbs-up without verbal remarks. - George Camao (1098 SW 10th Ave) expressed support for the project and downtown density, urged careful execution of the architecture, and said the club would be within walking distance of over 5,000 units; he opposed more car lanes and said density belongs downtown. - Dr. Brian Critchman (155 E Boca Raton Rd) raised concerns about traffic, citing JDM studies totaling 4,100 daily trips for the three adjacent projects (Aleto 2,000, Meisner Hotel 1,500, Sanborn 600) on 18-foot-wide roads. He also questioned transferring 54,000 office equivalents into Subarea B and said the area is already overbuilt. - Richard Warner (1322 SW 9th Terrace) was concerned, calling downtown development a jigsaw-puzzle nightmare and questioning elevator breakdown risk, open-ended membership, and private-club criteria. - Jeff Rosenfeld (2795 NW 29th Ave) supported the project, praised the design and underground parking with elevator redundancy, and compared the aesthetic to the Whitney in New York. Key Outcomes - The CRA adopted Resolution CRP-25-01 approving The Sanborn IDA by a 5-0 vote (motion by Vice Chair Drucker, seconded; all members voted yes). - No resolutions or regular public hearings, no public requests, no other business/settlements, and no director, attorney, or commissioner reports were presented. - The meeting adjourned at 10:50 AM; a City Council workshop was scheduled to follow.

The Planning and Zoning Board met on October 1, 2026, at 6:00 PM to consider three quasi-judicial items, a postponement, and public requests. The board approved all three development applications (Park Tower at Broken Sound, 520 Forsyth Gym, and The Sanborn) with conditions, postponed the Goldin Residence variance to December 3, 2026, and heard public concerns about the interpretation of height limits for single-family homes in R1 districts. Consent Calendar - Minutes of September 3, 2026: Approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Public requests on R1 height limits (Section 28-342): Five residents spoke against the construction of three-story homes with livable space above 25 feet in barrier island neighborhoods (Coconut Road, Spanish River Road). They argued that Ordinance 5086 (2009) only permitted sloped roof elements up to 35 feet for architectural variety, not habitable space. Speakers cited a zoning board member’s (Camejo) earlier comments that the exception was never intended to increase bulk or allow a third story. They urged the board to uphold the code and deny any permits that allow livable space above 25 feet. Fire safety and neighborhood character were also raised. Discussion Items - Goldin Residence (424 Northeast 4th Street) – Postponement: The board voted 5-0 to postpone the variance request (fence height six feet in front yard) to December 3, 2026, at the applicant’s request. The public hearing was opened and closed with no speakers. - Park Tower at Broken Sound (1075 & 1095 NW Broken Sound Parkway): Staff presented a site plan amendment to build an eight-story, 97-unit multifamily building (including 10 affordable units), a two-level parking structure, and a 2,100 sq ft retail/restaurant building on a 5.03-acre site. The project met all standards with no variances. Conditions included reducing five-foot-six-inch parapet walls to the five-foot maximum and incorporating intersection safety measures (LED stop signs, pavement markings). Applicant Carl Clepper (Compson Associates) confirmed compliance. Board discussion focused on the parapet height and traffic safety; board members expressed support for the design and developer. - 520 Forsyth Gym (520 Forsyth Street & 6299 N Federal Highway): Proposed reconfiguration of an existing parking lot from 26 to 30 spaces, landscape islands, and sidewalk improvements on a 0.71-acre site. The building use changed from office to fitness/gym. No building expansion. Board added a condition to install a shade tree in a new planter island if reasonably feasible. Applicant Ellie Zacharitis supported the condition. - The Sanborn (100 Northeast 1st Avenue): Individual Development Approval for an eight-story, 54,681 sq ft private club with a below-grade automated parking structure (85 spaces) and off-site parking at the Aletto garage (98 spaces). Includes transfer of development rights from Downtown Subarea D to B. Staff recommended approval with conditions. Applicant Ellie Zacharitis presented the design (spa, gym, restaurants, wine cellar, etc.). Board discussed planter island design and value engineering; applicant assured project will match renderings. Key Outcomes - Park Tower at Broken Sound: Motion to approve the CIMD site plan as proposed with staff conditions passed 5-0 (Sevell, Dornblaser, Camejo, Matthews, Mirabile voting yes; Mitchell and Morgan absent). - 520 Forsyth Gym: Motion to approve the site plan with the added condition of a shade tree (if reasonably feasible) passed 5-0. - The Sanborn (IDA): Motion to recommend approval to the Community Redevelopment Agency subject to staff conditions passed 5-0. - Goldin Residence: Postponed to December 3, 2026. - Public requests on R1 height limits: Board acknowledged concerns; Planning Director stated staff is reviewing the legislative history and will respond. Board agreed to consider a future workshop on the topic. - Meeting adjourned at 7:26 PM.

The Boca Raton City Council held its regular meeting on September 22, 2026, from 11:55 AM to 2:05 PM. The council approved minutes, appointments, consent agenda items, and several ordinances, and received reports on community engagement and the police services complex. Key discussions included the future of the police facility, a new Public Affairs Department, construction debris franchise agreements, and a process for filling an upcoming council vacancy. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approved: Minutes from the Special Meeting, Workshop Meeting, Regular Meeting, and Tentative Budget Hearing of September 8, 2026, were approved unanimously. - Board Appointments: - Pam John was reappointed to the Civil Service Board (one applicant, one vacancy). - Jack Nixon and Kimberly Patton were appointed to the Community Advisory Panel (four applicants for two vacancies; voting: Nixon received 4 votes, Patton 5, Mariana Demkova Hankin 1). - Consent Agenda Items (all passed unanimously): - Groundskeeping equipment ($413,000); desktops/laptops ($1,150,000); software maintenance ($3,600,000); hardware/storage equipment ($3,000,000); security guards ($416,839); MRO supplies from W.W. Garinger ($698,400); MRO supplies from Home Depot ($388,400); sodium hypochlorite ($748,000). - Sole source items: CAD-RMS software ($700,000); parking/fleet software ($240,000); OEM parts for fire apparatus ($450,000); Badger Meter system ($4,800,000). - Resolutions: No. 114-2026 (legal services amendment), No. 115-2026 (2027 meeting schedule), No. 116-2026 (Vision Zero Action Plan adoption), No. 118-2026 (fire rescue mutual aid with Boynton Beach), No. 120-2026 (beach and coastal management support). - Board minutes from multiple boards and certification of election for Teresa Dwyer to Civil Service Board. Public Comments & Testimony - Consent Agenda (Vision Zero): Richard Warner (1322 SW 9th Terrace) questioned the effectiveness and public awareness of the Vision Zero plan. Martin Bell (761 SW 3rd St) identified a dangerous pedestrian crossing at Palmetto Park Road between 4th and 9th Avenues, requesting inclusion in the plan. Mark Griffith (401 NW 15th St) described unsafe conditions exiting his neighborhood onto Glades Road due to high speeds and overgrown landscaping, urging safety improvements. - Resolution 119-2026 (Countess de Hoernle Park): Mr. Starkov expressed full support on behalf of himself and his wife, emphasizing the long-term community benefits of soccer fields for children and families. - Ordinance 5795 (Public Affairs Department): Mike Liebelson (398 NE 3rd Ct) commended the city manager’s reorganization and expressed support for the new department. - Ordinance 5807 (Downtown Plan Amendment): Richard Warner requested clarification on added and removed projects; council provided explanation (removing Brightline platform, transit-oriented community redevelopment, and relocation of historic buildings; adding residential-led memorial park enhancements and old town rehabilitation). - Public Requests: Mike Liebelson urged council to push for county MSTU to reduce double taxation on city residents (estimated $85 million/year). Mark Griffith voiced concerns about budget expansion, pension underfunding ($250 million), and maintenance issues at Boca Raton Golf & Racket (leaky roof). Richard Warner criticized political advertising that exaggerates voting percentages. Martin Bell advocated for a downtown skate park, temporary use of the base building for police, and long-term designation of that site as a park. Discussion Items - Community Advisory Panel Report – Police Services Complex: Ms. Carmen presented findings from two community conversations (Spanish River and downtown). Residents acknowledged the need to rebuild the police facility, prioritized public safety and fiscal transparency, and emphasized maintaining a downtown police presence regardless of the final location. No council questions. - Resolution 119-2026 (Countess de Hoernle Park Phase II): Staff (Mr. Lucasic) explained the amended interlocal agreement with the Greater Boca Raton Beach and Park District; phase II focuses on athletic fields to meet demand and compensate for the anticipated loss of FAU field access in 2030. Council approved without further discussion. - Ordinance 5795 (Public Affairs Department): City Manager Sohaney and Public Affairs Director Connolly outlined the reorganization consolidating communications, community relations, cultural affairs (Meisner Park Amphitheater, public art), and community resources under one 30-person department; no new positions except the previously approved community resource coordinator. - Ordinances 5800–5805 (C&D Franchise Agreements): Public Works Director Beer presented six non-exclusive franchise agreements for construction and demolition debris collection. Each requires a $2,875 annual fee and 15% monthly gross revenue fee. Staff recommended approval. - Ordinance 5806 (Public Service Tax Cleanup): CFO Zervis explained the ordinance removes outdated earmarks from the 10% public service tax on water services, directing all revenue to the general fund; clarifies reclaimed water is subject to the tax. No rate change. - Ordinance 5807 (Downtown Plan Amendment): Special Projects Manager Timberlake reviewed the update to Section 11 of the downtown CRA plan: removing three defunct projects (Brightline platform, transit-oriented community redevelopment, historic building relocation) and adding two new projects (residential-led memorial park enhancements, old town rehabilitation). CRA had unanimously recommended approval. Council discussed TIF funding restrictions for government buildings. - City Manager Report – Council Vacancy Process: City Manager Sohaney proposed accepting applications for the temporary Seat C vacancy through October 30, with interviews November 9 and appointment November 10. Councilmember Drucker noted she would resign on November 9 at 11:59 PM, leaving four members to vote. Council debated whether to proceed with an appointment; Councilmember Grow and Sipple expressed hesitation, preferring to let the election decide. Council agreed to defer releasing the application until the next workshop to reach consensus on whether to appoint. Councilmember Perlman supported appointing a candidate who might also run in the election. Key Outcomes - Board Appointments Approved: Pam John (Civil Service Board); Jack Nixon and Kimberly Patton (Community Advisory Panel). - Consent Agenda Approved: All items passed 5–0. - Resolution 119-2026 (Countess de Hoernle Park Agreement): Passed unanimously (5–0). - Ordinance 5795 (Public Affairs Department): Passed unanimously (5–0). - Ordinances 5800–5805 (C&D Franchise Agreements): Each passed unanimously (5–0) in separate votes. - Ordinance 5806 (Public Service Tax Cleanup): Passed unanimously (5–0). - Ordinance 5807 (Downtown Plan Amendment): Passed unanimously (5–0). - Council Vacancy Process: Staff directed to hold off on releasing applications until the council reaches a decision on whether to proceed with an appointment; discussion scheduled for the next workshop. - Mayor’s MVP: John Shipley recognized for workplace safety innovations. - Adjournment: Meeting adjourned at 2:05 PM.