Public Meetings - Boca Raton, Florida

The Boca Raton CRA held a regular meeting on May 11, 2026 at 1:30 PM, chaired by Andy Thomson, with Vice Chair Yvette Drucker and Commissioners Michelle Grau, Jon Pearlman, and Stacy Sipple present. The meeting focused on a single quasi-judicial public hearing for an Individual Development Approval (IDA) at 101 E. Palmetto Park Road, which was ultimately postponed to June 9, 2026 after extensive discussion and public testimony. The meeting also included approval of prior minutes, public requests, and commissioner reports. Consent Calendar - Minutes of April 27, 2026: Approved unanimously by voice vote (all aye). Public Comments & Testimony During the 101 E. Palmetto Park Road public hearing: - Juan Caicedo (architect, speaker) urged approval, stating the project would activate a dead corner, preserve a historic building, and provide attainable housing. He argued that keeping the historic structure contributes to downtown character. - Howard Greenberg (resident, pedestrian/bike committee member) asked that the design ensure adequate sidewalk width for pedestrian passage, and suggested converting on-street parking to a wider sidewalk/bike path. - Joe Majus (resident) opposed the project, arguing the term “affordable” was undefined and that comparable studio apartments in the area rent for $2,675/month, making them unaffordable for low-income residents. He also questioned the reliance on transit connectivity, noting few people use PalmTran or Tri-Rail to reach restaurants, and alleged that the current building leases parking from an adjacent property—a fact not mentioned. - Jonathan Rungeon (resident and property owner) expressed concern about a restaurant with no parking, stating that most people still drive. He also questioned the transit fee calculation, suggesting the Circuit shuttle would be more impacted than the bus system. During Public Requests (after the hearing): - Earl Starkov (resident) raised public safety concerns about cumulative traffic, parking stress, and emergency access in the downtown CRA, noting the project would add an estimated 99 daily trips. He called for a broader empirical review of downtown operational impacts. - Juan Caicedo (second appearance) spoke about placemaking and preserving historic character, urging the CRA to consider the value of retaining older buildings rather than requiring redevelopment. - Dan Gwynn (president, Boca Raton Cultural Consortium) advocated for increased city support for cultural organizations, noting the community has historically under-supported arts. Discussion Items 101 E. Palmetto Park Road – IDA CRP-24-02 - Staff Presentation (Jacob German, Senior Planner): The project involves adaptive reuse of an existing 8,235 sq ft, two-story building built in 1939 on a 0.24-acre site. Proposed changes: conversion of 2,555 sq ft of second-floor retail to four studio apartments (584–684 sq ft each), and conversion of ground-floor retail to a 2,544 sq ft restaurant with 1,272 sq ft indoor customer seating and 550 sq ft outdoor seating. A new 2,382 sq ft landscaped courtyard would replace a paved back-of-house area. The project requests a technical deviation from the DDRI development order to reduce required off-street parking from 59 spaces to zero (a reduction of 59 spaces), as the site has no on-site parking now and has operated without parking for decades. Staff noted the building currently requires 32 spaces for existing uses but has zero. The application includes enhanced Transportation Demand Management (TDM) measures: 100% transit subsidies for PalmTran and Tri-Rail for all residents and employees, a 20% Brightline subsidy for residents, and an annual $10,014.66 contribution to the city’s downtown transit program (calculated from the maximum PMD matrix rate of $40.70 per daily trip for 246 estimated daily trips). Staff recommended approval subject to conditions, including revised condition 10 allowing outdoor seating in the courtyard if it does not exceed 550 sq ft. The Planning and Zoning Board recommended approval 5-0 on February 5, 2026, and the CAB recommended approval 5-0 on August 19, 2025. - Applicant Presentation (Ellie Zacharitis, attorney for owner): Emphasized the building is historic (90 years old) and no demolition or exterior changes are proposed. Stated the project “is not a development project” (though City Attorney clarified it is legally treated as development under ordinance 4035). Argued the site cannot accommodate parking due to constraints. Framed the units as “attainable” housing for young professionals. Noted that allowing the adaptive reuse avoids incentivizing demolition. - Commissioner Discussion: - Commissioner Drucker supported the project, calling it a model for walkability and activation. She noted the outdated parking code and praised the transit subsidies. - Commissioner Sipple raised concerns: the lack of parking for residents and restaurant patrons; the term “affordable” not being defined per Florida statute; and safety of outdoor seating on NE First Ave. She moved to table the item until parking was secured for the four residential units. - Commissioner Pearlman questioned the use of “affordable” in the application, noting state criteria require ≤30% of income on housing based on AMI. He stated the applicant’s earlier characterization was troubling. - Commissioner Grau noted that Tucci’s (a former downtown pizza restaurant) had no parking and eventually moved, partly due to parking issues, and questioned setting a precedent. - Chair Thomson noted the building is an anomaly as the only downtown building with zero parking, so precedent is unlikely. - Applicant’s Response to Concerns: Zacharitis clarified the units would be “attainable” based on size and lack of amenities, and after discussion, volunteered to add a condition restricting rents to 120% of Palm Beach County AMI (consistent with state affordable housing definition). Regarding parking for residents, she explained the owner previously rented parking spaces from a city lot, but those spaces were daytime only. She offered to amend the existing license agreement to allow overnight parking if the city wished, but the city declined. She emphasized ample private garage parking in the area (e.g., Royal Palm Place, The Mark, Alonzo) that is open to the public. - Post-Break Motion: After a recess, applicant requested a postponement to June 9, 2026 to meet individually with commissioners and address the parking and affordability concerns. The City Attorney confirmed the CRA had discretion to continue the hearing. Chair Thomson moved to postpone to June 9, 2026; motion seconded and passed by voice vote (all aye). Key Outcomes - Postponement of CRP-24-02: The public hearing was continued to the June 9, 2026 CRA meeting to allow the applicant to address concerns about parking for the four residential units and to finalize an affordable housing commitment consistent with state/county standards. No vote on the IDA itself was taken. - Public Comments Heard: Multiple residents expressed views on the project and broader downtown issues; no further action taken.

The Planning and Zoning Board of Boca Raton held a regular meeting on May 7, 2026, at 6:00 PM. The sole agenda item was a quasi-judicial public hearing for a site plan amendment by ADMA Biologics, requesting approval of an approximately 18,973 square foot warehouse expansion at 6300 Park of Commerce Boulevard. The board voted 5-0 to approve the amendment. Discussion Items - ADMA Biologics Site Plan Amendment (SPA-91-17R1/PZSPA-2025-00043): The applicant sought to amend Planning and Zoning Board Resolution No. 94-32 to authorize an 18,973 square foot expansion to the existing 38,038 square foot warehouse and office building. The project includes modifications to parking, loading, landscaping, and internal circulation, as well as a new six-foot-wide sidewalk along Park of Commerce Boulevard. Staff Planner Maily Barrera presented the application, noting that the property is zoned Warehouse Industrial, with a future land use designation of Planned Mobility. The project was previously approved in 1994 as a two-phase development, but Phase II was never constructed. The current proposal adds warehouse space for industrial freezer and cold storage to support the biopharmaceutical operations of ADMA Biologics, a company employing 360 local workers (with 15 additional jobs anticipated from the expansion). The design maintains consistency with the existing building and received a 5-2 recommendation of approval from the Community Appearance Board on March 17, 2026, with conditions (architectural reveals on the western elevation and relocation of exterior roof access) that were subsequently incorporated. Applicant representative David Millage emphasized the strategic nature of the expansion, the net increase of 110 inches of tree caliper (removing 66 inches, adding 176 inches), and full compliance with code. No public comments were offered. Key Outcomes - Motion and Vote: Board member Mitchell moved to approve the site plan amendment, seconded by Matthews. The motion passed unanimously, 5-0 (members absent: Camejo). The vote approved the expansion and associated site improvements as described in the application. - Next Steps: The approval is final for the Planning and Zoning Board; further appeals or final action by City Council may be required, but none were discussed at the meeting. Adjournment The meeting adjourned at 6:15 PM.

The Boca Raton City Council held a regular meeting on April 28, 2026, at 6:00 PM. The meeting included an invocation, pledge, roll call, approval of minutes, a presentation from the Palm Beach County Commission on Ethics, unanimous approval of the consent agenda, multiple public comments, introduction of an ordinance to protect city-owned lands, and council reports. Key discussion centered on the downtown civic task force selection process, with a motion to reconsider the task force resolution deferred to a future meeting due to due process concerns. Consent Calendar - Minutes: Approved the minutes of the workshop meeting of April 13, 2026, and the regular meeting of April 14, 2026. - Consent Agenda Items: Approved unanimously (5-0) including: - Sole source purchase of patrol rifles from Lawmen’s & Shooter’s Supply Inc. for $573,432.00. - Resolution No. 36-2026 canceling certain workshops and regular meetings in June, July, and August 2026. - Resolution No. 37-2026 authorizing an agreement with Raftelis Financial Consultants, Inc. for utility rate and financial consulting. - Resolution No. 38-2026 authorizing a Public Emergency Medical Services Agreement with FWC2026 US, Inc. for FIFA World Cup 2026 training operations. - Resolution No. 39-2026 authorizing an agreement with Palm Beach County for EMS equipment/training grant funding. - Resolution No. 40-2026 authorizing grant applications for Spanish River Dock Rehabilitation Phase 2 and Spanish River Park Improvements Phase 1. - Receipt of board minutes and board resignations. Public Comments & Testimony - Earl Starkoff (applied for task force): Supported Option 2 for the task force selection process, citing transparency and efficiency, and recommended a structured narrowing process similar to that used by the Beach and Park District. - Glenn Groman (exempted address): Reported that NGOs are homeless individuals at Wildflower Park and the boat ramp, and expressed concerns about safety and lack of police presence downtown. - Brianna Hagquist (5710A Coach House Circle): Advocated for parks and wildlife, noting that Sugarsand Park is a gopher tortoise habitat with approximately 3,000 trees, and argued that building softball fields there would be cost-prohibitive (tree relocation costs of $2–15 million) and ecologically harmful. - Christina Broker (2391 NW 38th Street): Expressed full support for building a quad softball complex in Boca Raton, citing the growth of softball nationally and the need to host tournaments locally rather than sending families to other cities. - Patty Drivishi (420 NE 10th Terrace): Raised safety concerns about e-bikes traveling at high speeds (up to 35 mph) without lights or reflectors, and reported an incident of a young man with a pellet rifle. - Robert Ducate (5351 NW 3rd Terrace): Criticized city staff for recommending rezoning and variances, opposed the Jeffrey Street extension through North Park (calling it a public safety issue), and urged the council to support the beach and park district’s golf facility plans. - Judy Morrow (1305 NE 5th Avenue): Praised the council for listening to residents and requested more tennis courts, citing Palm Beach Gardens and Wellington as examples. - Alexandra Avenu (498 SW 12th Terrace): Raised concerns about non-resident students attending Addison Meisner and non-resident use of sports facilities, urging the city to investigate. - Angela McDonald (1350 N Dixie Highway): Thanked the council for visiting Pearl City and invited members to the community’s monthly meetings. - Angela Maisie (242 NW 64th Street): Supported using the Treasure Coast Planning Council for the master plan (noting it is free), opposed the Jeffrey Street extension, and expressed concern that the Save Boca referendum would handcuff the council. Discussion Items - Ethics Presentation: Rhonda Giger, General Counsel for the Palm Beach County Commission on Ethics, provided an overview of ethics rules, emphasizing proactive guidance and explaining the three conditions for a conflict of interest: prohibited entity, financial benefit, and special benefit. She offered to conduct live training for council members. - Introduction of Ordinance No. 5784: Councilmember Pearlman introduced an ordinance to create a new section (2-4) of the City Code requiring voter approval via referendum for any sale or lease of city-owned land greater than 0.5 acre, with limited exceptions. - City Manager Report: City Manager Sohaney reported on the community master plan (RFP process to begin), downtown civic task force selection options (deferred to next workshop), police chief hiring (700 survey responses, interviews next week), homeless outreach (ongoing meetings, after-action report pending), launch of the "myBoca" chatbot on April 28, Memorial Day ceremony on May 25, Blue Flag beach designation ceremony on May 7, and Boca Regional Chamber Breakfast on May 14. - Councilmember Reports: - Councilmember Drucker updated on e-bike discussions at the MPO, cautioned against approaching individuals with pellet guns, and provided an update on property tax legislation in Tallahassee (House passed a phase-out plan, Senate to discuss next week, would require 60% voter approval in November). - Councilmember Grau expressed concerns about the task force, stating it may create division and limit participation, and suggested relying on the professional urban planning team to lead an inclusive community engagement process. - Councilmember Pearlman responded, noting that the task force is intended to provide additional opportunities for public input, not exclude others. He moved to reconsider Resolution 33-2026 (which established the task force) with a possible repeal, but Mayor Thomson advised that due process requires placing the item on a future agenda with public notice. - Mayor Thomson announced the last Night Market of the season at Sanborn Square on May 7. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda: Approved unanimously (5-0). - Ordinance No. 5784: Introduced for first reading; no vote taken. - Task Force Reconsideration: Councilmember Pearlman made a motion to revisit the task force resolution, but the Mayor stated that due process requires formal notice and public hearing. The matter was deferred to a future council meeting. - Community Master Plan: Staff directed to proceed with an RFP for a private firm and present the scope of work and timeline at the next workshop. - Task Force Selection Process: Council agreed to discuss the selection process at the next workshop, given the additional time from the RFP pivot. - Public Safety: City Manager to follow up on homeless concerns and e-bike safety; police chief interviews to begin next week.

The City Council held a workshop on April 27, 2026, covering a broad range of topics including the initiation of a community-wide master plan, the structure of a Downtown Civic Engagement Task Force, immediate and long-term improvements to Memorial Park and softball fields, and review of the Save Boca citizen petitions. Staff presented financial reports for FY 2024-25, including audited financial statements and investment performance. The meeting concluded with public comments and no formal votes, but several directional consensuses were reached for staff to proceed with certain actions and bring back more detailed proposals. Proclamations/Presentations - Community Master Plan: Dr. Kim Delaney of Treasure Coast Regional Planning Council (TCRPC) proposed a 15-16 month, high-engagement master planning process with five phases and extensive public outreach, including a week-long design charrette. The estimated cost is $250,000–$300,000. Council members expressed general support for a master plan, but disagreed on whether to contract directly with TCRPC or go through a formal RFP. After debate, the consensus favored issuing an RFP to ensure an open, competitive process, with staff to develop a detailed scope and timeline. Councilmember Drucker noted that an RFP would require a “cone of silence” limiting council communication with applicants. - Downtown Civic Engagement Task Force: Deputy City Manager Lucasick presented three options for selecting the nine-member task force: (1) full public interviews of all applicants, (2) council workshop pre-screening followed by public finalist interviews, or (3) individual council member shortlisting then public interviews. Council discussed concerns about transparency and avoiding the appearance of insider influence. No decision was reached; the matter was continued to the next day’s meeting for a final choice. - Memorial Park General Discussion: Public Works Director Zach Beer outlined short-term (fountain repairs, restroom renovations, tennis center concepts), mid-term (Singing Pines Building rehabilitation design, FPL line relocation planning), and long-term (power line relocation, tennis center construction) projects. Council agreed to proceed with initial planning for FPL power line relocation (due to its long lead time) and to study reopening Singing Pines, but deferred other major decisions until a comprehensive park plan is developed. Councilmember Drucker emphasized the need to align spending with property tax discussions at the state level. - Softball Fields Update: Recreation Services Director Greg Stevens reported on ongoing meetings with the softball league and parents, focusing on scheduling optimization, lighting upgrades, batting cages, restroom trailers, and improved field amenities. Staff will consolidate data and present options for quality and quantity improvements at the May 26 workshop. - Save Boca Citizen Petitions: City Attorney Kaler explained the ordinance adoption process and presented proposed clarifying exceptions to the charter amendment requiring voter approval for sale/lease of city-owned land over half an acre. Exceptions include: continuation of existing nonprofit leases, utility easements, city use of its own land for public facilities, and temporary recreational/community uses. Councilmember Pearlman requested modifications to recitals and ballot language; Deputy Mayor Grow requested clarity on “amendment” and “current existing” leases. These items will be introduced at the next meeting and discussed further at a workshop on May 11. Public Comments & Testimony - Dr. Lorraine Blank (resident) criticized the late placement of public comment and called for more transparency. She requested clear terms of reference for the task force, objected to wording in exception 4 of the Save Boca ordinance, and suggested financial reports include constant-dollar and per-capita trends. - Diana Cooper (softball parent) thanked the council for addressing softball field needs and urged separating the softball discussion from the downtown Memorial Park project, advocating for dedicated fields and scheduling improvements at other parks. - Brian Cherry (resident) highlighted aggressive driving issues in Boca Raton, noting six traffic deaths in 2024 and 26,000 crashes in Palm Beach County in 2025. He recommended increased fines and red-light/speed cameras. - Brianna Hackwist (resident, with stuffed tortoises Thaddeus and Ted) advocated for preserving green space and wildlife, especially in Sugar Sand Park, and opposed adding softball fields there. - June Wagner (resident) urged preservation of beaches and beaches parks, promoting native species and improved parking access, and expressed concerns about the Oval development project overwhelming existing parking. - Jonathan Nungeon (resident) urged the council to slow down piecemeal park improvements and wait for a comprehensive master plan. He noted that any police station renovation would require a temporary relocation. - Judy Morrow (resident) praised the inclusion of tennis center improvements, noting a 54% increase in tennis participation since 2001 and citing economic impact data. She recommended a clubhouse and observation deck similar to Palm Beach Gardens’ facility. Key Outcomes - Community Master Plan: Council consensus to proceed with an RFP process for selecting a consultant; staff to define scope and timeline. No direct contract with TCRPC. - FPL Power Line Relocation: Staff directed to start initial planning and coordination with FPL for relocating transmission lines from Memorial Park. - Singing Pines Building: Staff to study and bring options for rehabilitation and reopening, including potential children’s garden. - Task Force Selection: No decision; will be finalized at the April 28 meeting. - Save Boca Ordinances: Council will introduce the ordinances/charter amendment at the April 28 meeting; second reading and public hearing scheduled for May 12 after a May 11 workshop. - Financial Reports: The city received an unmodified audit opinion, its 44th consecutive Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting, and presented a Popular Annual Financial Report for the first time. Investment portfolio had a blended yield of 3.79% and market total return of 3.72% for FY 2025. City Manager & Attorney Reports - City Manager reported no additional items. - City Attorney reported no additional items. - Mayor and Council Members had no reports. The workshop adjourned at 5:47 PM.

The Boca Raton Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) held a brief regular meeting on April 27, 2026, at 1:30 PM in the Auditorium at 6500 N. Congress Avenue. The meeting lasted until 1:55 PM. The board received the annual financial statements and audit reports, approved the prior meeting minutes, adopted a budget amendment resolution, and approved the summer meeting schedule with one amendment. All votes were unanimous (5-0). Consent Calendar - Minutes of April 13, 2026: Approved by voice vote with no revisions. Presentations - FY 2024‑25 CRA Annual Financial Statements: Presented by Judy Farmont and Deputy City Manager/CFO Jim Zervis. Key highlights: total assets of approximately $158 million, including $48.1 million in capital assets; liabilities of $867,000; deferred inflows for leases of $57.6 million; net position of $99.5 million ($47.8 million invested in capital assets, $51.7 million restricted under Florida’s Community Redevelopment Act). Property tax revenues totaled over $22.6 million (increase due to property values, not millage rate); charges for services were $4.6 million (increase due to ground rent). The CRA generated a favorable variance of $24.4 million between the final adopted budget and actual results. Commissioners recognized the finance team's work and the city's long streak of excellence awards in budgeting and financial reporting. - Auditor Compliance Report: Moises Reza of CBIS CPAs presented the independent audit opinion. The CRA received an unmodified (clean) opinion for fiscal year ended September 30, 2025, with no comments, findings, or internal control deficiencies to report. Discussion Items - Resolution 2026‑03‑CRA (Budget Amendment and Final Appropriation): The resolution approved a budget amendment recognizing approximately $130,000 in personnel adjustments related to the city’s recently adopted compensation study. It also formally appropriated the final year-end balance of the Redevelopment Trust Fund as of September 30, 2025—$49.97 million (originally estimated at $39.25 million)—to previously approved redevelopment projects. No new projects were introduced. Commissioner Pearlman asked about the $10.73 million carryover for the East‑West Pedestrian Connectivity project; staff confirmed no significant funds had been spent yet and that any future spending would require separate board authorization. The resolution passed 5-0. - Resolution 2026‑04‑CRA (Summer Meeting Cancellations): The resolution proposed canceling CRA meetings on June 22, July 13, and August 10, 2026. The board amended the resolution to move the June 8 CRA meeting to a combined meeting on Tuesday, June 9, 2026. After a procedural restart, the amended resolution was approved 5-0. Key Outcomes - Minutes of the April 13, 2026 regular meeting approved. - Resolution 2026‑03‑CRA adopted (5-0). - Resolution 2026‑04‑CRA adopted as amended (5-0) to cancel three meetings and move June 8 to June 9. - No public comments were made during the CRA portion of the meeting. Commissioners' reports included thanks for a recent multimodal transportation event and general commendation.

The City of Boca Raton Planning and Zoning Board met on April 16, 2026, at 6:00 PM for its regular meeting. The board unanimously re-elected Chair Arnold Sevell, Vice Chair Timothy Dornblaser, and Secretary Gregory Mitchell. The meeting addressed three quasi-judicial public hearings and one regular public hearing, approving all items with modifications on two. Key decisions included a parking deviation for a commercial plaza, conversion of a hotel to residential with affordable units, a mixed-use industrial/office project, and a lease extension for a hospice facility. Consent Calendar - Minutes: The board unanimously approved the minutes from the regular meetings of February 19, 2026, March 5, 2026, and March 19, 2026. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during any of the public hearing periods for the agenda items. Discussion Items - Election of Officers: The board elected Chair Arnold Sevell (nominated by Gregory Mitchell, seconded by Jorge Camejo), Vice Chair Timothy Dornblaser (nominated by Gregory Mitchell, seconded by Arnold Sevell), and Secretary Gregory Mitchell (nominated by Arnold Sevell, seconded by Chaim Morgan) – all by unanimous voice vote. - Agenda Amendment: The board agreed to move Item 6.C (The Courtyard at Spanish River) to the first quasi-judicial hearing. - Item 6.C – The Courtyard at Spanish River Parking Deviation: The applicant, Sarah Thompson, requested a technical deviation to reduce required parking from 326 to 226 spaces for the 4.51‑acre commercial property at 500 NE Spanish River Boulevard. The request was based on an ITE parking study showing actual demand lower than code. Board member Harry Mirabile recused himself due to a conflict of interest (cousin is a tenant). After discussion, the board approved the deviation 6‑0. - Item 6.A – Holiday Inn & Suites Conversion: The applicant, David Millage, proposed converting the existing 183‑room hotel at 701 NW 53rd Street into 125 residential units (including 10% affordable and 5% workforce units), a 5,545 sq ft restaurant with outdoor dining, and 4,501 sq ft of retail space. Staff recommended approval. The board discussed outdoor dining hours, with Chair Sevell suggesting a 10:00 PM cutoff, but ultimately left hours to market forces. The board approved the site plan amendment 7‑0. - Item 6.B – 1150 Innovation Center: This consolidated hearing considered two resolutions: (i) a site plan amendment for two two‑story office/light industrial buildings totaling 71,624 sq ft, including a technical deviation for driveway reservoir reduction (50 ft to 38 ft) and a variance for street yard setback reduction (100 ft to 70 ft 9 in); and (ii) a conditional use to allow warehousing/showroom/wholesale uses in the LIRP district. The applicant, David Millage, sought changes to conditions: reducing oak tree caliper from 6 inches to 4 inches, eliminating a box‑truck restriction, and adjusting parking structure review language. Staff expressed concerns about compatibility with the adjacent approved 287‑unit multifamily building. The residential developer (Michael Trimble) supported the project, citing a recorded REA to self‑police uses. The board voted to recommend approval of both resolutions (7‑0 each) with modifications: trees reduced to 4‑inch caliper, box‑truck condition removed, and remaining issues left to staff and applicant negotiation before City Council. - Item 8.A – Trustbridge Lease (Hospice by the Sea): Ann Hathaway presented a lease amendment for 5.12 acres of city‑owned land at 1531 W Palmetto Park Road, extending the lease from June 12, 2034 to June 20, 2044, with four additional 10‑year renewal periods subject to the lessee investing $1 million in capital improvements by June 11, 2044. The lessee, Trustbridge Inc., has already invested $13 million since 2020. Board member Harry Mirabile noted that liability insurance ($1–2 million) seemed low and would be reviewed. The board approved the lease amendment unanimously (7‑0). Key Outcomes - The Courtyard at Spanish River (Item 6.C): Approved 6‑0 (Mirabile recused). Reduces required parking from 326 to 226 spaces, based on ITE study, with surplus of 40 spaces for higher‑demand uses. - Holiday Inn & Suites (Item 6.A): Approved 7‑0. Allows conversion of hotel to 125 residential units (13 affordable, 7 workforce), plus restaurant and retail, with conditions including enhanced bicycle parking and a shuttle shelter. - 1150 Innovation Center (Item 6.B): Both resolutions approved 7‑0 with modifications: tree caliper reduced from 6 to 4 inches, box‑truck restriction removed (left to private enforcement between owners), and parking structure review condition adjusted. Remaining items (walkway design) to be resolved with staff before City Council. - Trustbridge Lease (Item 8.A): Approved 7‑0. Lease extended to 2044 with $1 million capital improvement requirement and four optional 10‑year renewals. - Director’s Report: The board nominated Gregory Mitchell to serve as the Planning and Zoning Board representative on the Affordable Housing Advisory Committee. - Adjournment: The meeting adjourned at 8:03 PM.

The Boca Raton City Council held a regular meeting on April 14, 2026, starting at 6:00 PM. The meeting included presentations, board appointments, consent agenda items, resolutions, quasi-judicial hearings, and public comments. Key actions included approval of a Memorial Park plaque revision (5-0), creation of a Downtown Civic Engagement Task Force (3-1), approval of a private school at BRIC (3-1), and a tie vote (2-2) on a DRI amendment, effectively denying the request. The council also approved a budget amendment and pension plan updates. Public comments centered on softball field equity, the Save Boca petition, and community safety. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes from March 23, March 24, and March 31, 2026 meetings (unanimous). - Approved consent agenda items (except those removed) by roll call vote (5-0). Items removed were Resolution 27-2026 (telecommunications rights-of-way) and Resolution 31-2026 (architectural services for building assessments). Public Comments & Testimony - Resolution 31-2026 (building assessments): Multiple residents expressed concerns about the $224,232.25 cost for a visual/non-destructive inspection of nine city buildings. Some urged tabling the item, while others supported the assessment, noting it was more thorough than a drive-by. Councilman Pearlman proposed targeting specific buildings for full inspection instead. - Resolution 32-2026 (Memorial Park plaque): Several speakers (including Joe Kaufman, Frank Patton, and Vivian Lesher) supported removing the existing plaque and installing a revised version that acknowledges the 1947 dedication and recent civic advocacy. Some opposed the change, calling it "dancing on the graves" of prior officials. - Resolution 33-2026 (Task Force): Public opinions were divided. Some supported a task force for community input, while others opposed it, arguing the council should act directly on the Save Boca petition. Ms. Madsen advocated for using a professional urban planner instead. - Boca Technology Center DRI Amendment (Item 11A): No public speakers besides the applicant and a representative from Geo Group, who asked about the future of the DRI and the association. Ms. Paschke questioned the redundancy of the DRI process. - BRIC Private School (Item 11B): Public comments focused on security for students in a mixed-use building and the adequacy of bathroom facilities. The applicant clarified security measures and that tuition ranges from $11,000 to $29,000. - Public Requests (Section 14): Multiple residents spoke on traffic safety (crossing bridge, intersection), police presence, softball field equity, Sugar Sand Park preservation, skate park location, Boys & Girls Club, and the Save Boca petition. Several urged immediate passage of the Save Boca ordinance. Discussion Items - Presentation from State Representative Peggy Gossett-Seidman (Item 6A): The representative discussed state appropriations, her legislative achievements, and an unclaimed 100-year-old fountain at the Boca Raton Hotel, offered to the city via quitclaim deed. Lobbyist Jared Rosenstein highlighted three upcoming special sessions (redistricting, property taxes, budget) and two pending city projects ($750K drinking water transmission, $500K public safety dock). - Board Appointments (Item 7): Heather Lacey was appointed to the Citizens Pedestrian and Bikeway Advisory Board (unanimous). Three incumbents (Mayotte, Horty, Newman) were reappointed to the Environmental Advisory Board (unanimous). Marine Advisory Board vacancy held open. - Resolution 31-2026 – Work Order with Currie Sowards Aguila Architects (Item 9D): Council debated the $225,000 contract for condition assessments of nine city buildings, including City Hall, police station, historic structures, and fire station 7. Councilman Pearlman argued for targeted full inspections instead, but the motion to approve passed 4-1 (Pearlman opposed). The scope includes structural, mechanical, ADA, and life cycle analysis. - Resolution 32-2026 – Memorial Park Plaque (Item 10A): After public comment, the council adopted the revised plaque language that includes the 1947 dedication and recognition of resident advocacy. The resolution was amended to change "designated" to "dedicated" to align with historical accuracy and potential grant eligibility. Unanimously approved 5-0. - Resolution 33-2026 – Downtown Civic Engagement Task Force (Item 10B): Mayor Thompson proposed a nine-member task force (with a professional urban planner liaison) to gather community input on the future of city hall and the community center. Councilman Pearlman opposed, arguing the council should act directly. Councilwoman Grau favored using professional planners rather than a task force. The resolution was amended to remove the mayor as chair. Passed 3-1 (Pearlman dissenting; Councilwoman Drucker absent). - Boca Technology Center DRI Amendment (Item 11A – Resolution 26-2026): The applicant sought to remove 129.6 acres (BRIC campus) from the DRI, citing redundancy and the city’s Doulas exemption. Staff recommended approval. The vote tied 2-2 (Pearlman and Grau opposed; Drucker absent), resulting in denial. The council discussed options for reconsideration or bringing the item back with a future EMD master plan application. - Palm Beach International Academy at BRIC (Item 11B – Resolutions 28-2026 and 29-2026): Conditional use for a 5,711 sq ft private school (grades 6-12, max 50 students on-site) within an existing building. The hybrid model offers flexible hours. Approved 3-1 (Pearlman dissenting) for both resolutions. - Ordinance 5779 – Executive Employees Retirement Plan (Item 12A): Cleanup amendments to definitions, service purchase limits, and DROP timing. No actuarial impact. Approved unanimously 4-0. - Ordinance 5782 – First Budget Amendment (Item 12B): Adjustments for compensation study implementation, fire rescue salary corrections, Wave Crest seawall emergency repair ($1.4M), and other items. Approved 4-0. - City Manager Report (Item 17): Update on police chief search (over 100 applicants, survey launched) and response to Memorial Park safety issues, including increased police presence, lighting, restroom closures, and homelessness outreach via partnerships. - Council Member Reports (Item 19): Councilman Pearlman displayed hundreds of emails urging immediate adoption of the Save Boca ordinances. Councilwoman Sipple and Deputy Mayor Grau emphasized the need for careful review to ensure legal durability. Mayor Thompson urged collegiality and a thoughtful two-week timeline for language refinement. Key Outcomes - Memorial Park Plaque: Approved revised plaque (5-0) with language recognizing the 1947 dedication and 2025-2026 civic advocacy. Resolution amended to use "dedicated" throughout. - Downtown Civic Engagement Task Force: Created (3-1) with nine members appointed by council, no mayor as chair. Will include an urban planning consultant. First meeting to be scheduled. - DRI Amendment (BRIC): Motion failed on a 2-2 tie vote. Effectively denied, but applicant may resubmit with a combined future application. - Private School at BRIC: Conditional Use and Site Plan Amendment approved (3-1). School limited to 50 students on-site at any time, hybrid schedule. - Building Assessments: Work order approved (4-1) for $224,232.25. Scope includes nine buildings; softball field restrooms/dugouts can be added. - Budget Amendment: Ordinance 5782 adopted (4-0), restoring funds for seawall repairs and accounting for compensation study. - Retirement Plan Cleanup: Ordinance 5779 adopted (4-0). - Consent Agenda: Items approved (5-0) after removal of two items for separate votes; both later approved. - Board Appointments: Heather Lacey (Pedestrian/Bikeway), and three incumbents (Environmental Board) appointed unanimously. - Next Steps: City Attorney to circulate draft language for Save Boca ordinance by April 21 for consideration at April 27-28 meeting. Police chief candidate interviews to begin after community survey.

The Boca Raton City Council held a workshop meeting on April 13, 2026, beginning at 2:07 PM and concluding at approximately 5:40 PM. The meeting covered a proclamation, board interviews, a review of regular agenda items including Memorial Park updated recognition, Save Boca citizen petitions, and a downtown civic engagement task force, as well as a general discussion on Memorial Park and public comments. Proclamations - A proclamation declaring April 2026 as Paralyzed Veterans of America Awareness Month was presented. Mayor Thompson read the proclamation, and Mr. Juan Perez, immediate past president of the Florida chapter, accepted and thanked the council. Board Interviews - Only one applicant, Elliot Popper, was present and interviewed for the Citizens Pedestrian and Bikeway Advisory Board. No applicants appeared for the Affordable Housing Advisory Committee, Environmental Advisory Board, or Marine Advisory Board. - Councilmember Thompson clarified that an erroneous appointment to an auditing committee at the organizational meeting two weeks prior was invalid; the committee was formed in 2024 and its contract extends to 2029, so no appointment was needed. Public Comments & Testimony - Martin Castellanos, a 27-year Coast Guard veteran, urged the council to focus on improving Memorial Park facilities rather than the wording of the plaque. - Judy Morrow celebrated the new council and raised concerns about the condition of the Boca Raton Tennis Center, noting safety and maintenance issues. - Brianna Hagquist spoke in support of the Save Boca petitions, emphasizing that residents knew what they signed and that the petitions should be honored. - Meredith Madsen suggested the downtown civic engagement task force be divided into smaller sub-task forces by topic (e.g., tennis, softball, skate park) to allow focused charrettes. - Earl Starkov advocated for equal treatment of girls' softball compared to boys' baseball, and urged planning that considers the entire city, not just downtown. - Jonathan Unge stressed the need for equity in youth sports and for city planning to extend beyond the downtown core. - Joe Majus supported a professionally facilitated task force and cautioned that ordinance language should be clear to avoid legal challenges. - Frank Patton proposed using temporary fencing and dual-base systems to convert baseball fields to softball fields without taking additional land. Discussion Items Memorial Park Updated Recognition (Item 4A) - City Manager Sohaney presented a revised resolution and proposed plaque language that acknowledges the park's original 1947 dedication and the 2025-2026 civic advocacy. - Councilmembers thanked Frank Patton for his historical research. Councilmember Perlman offered a more concise 51-word plaque alternative. - The council agreed to discuss the plaque language further at the regular meeting on April 14, 2026. Save Boca Citizen Petitions (Item 4B) - City Attorney Kaler outlined three options: (1) place the original petitions on the next ballot, (2) was removed due to lawsuit dismissal, (3) consider revisions. The next available election would likely be March 2027. - Councilmember Perlman argued the petitions should be adopted as-is, noting the identical language already exists in the city charter for the beach (Section 7.07). He made a motion to add the ordinance to the next regular meeting agenda for adoption, but it lacked a second. - Councilmembers Drucker, Thompson, and Sipple supported revisions to address concerns about utilities, drainage, easements, and nonprofits. They directed staff to draft revised language for future consideration. - Councilmember Perlman indicated the petitioners committee is open to some modifications but wants the core intent preserved. Downtown Civic Engagement Task Force (Item 4C) - Mayor Thompson proposed a nine-member task force to advise on the government campus, starting in July 2026 for up to six months, with the mayor as chair. - Councilmember Perlman opposed, arguing it would create an unnecessary layer between the council and constituents. - Councilmember Drucker supported the concept, citing her experience with an education task force, and noted the importance of public input. - Councilmember Grow suggested using the Treasure Coast Regional Planning Council (TCRPC) for professional charrettes instead, and recommended the task force chair be independent of the mayor. - Councilmember Sipple preferred an independent consultant to restore public trust. - Staff confirmed that TCRPC is already engaged for community outreach and is experienced in charrette processes. The item will be taken up again at the regular meeting. General Memorial Park Discussion (Softball Fields) - Mayor Thompson highlighted concerns from the softball community about field quality, safety (homeless incidents), and disparities compared to baseball fields. He asked staff to prepare cost estimates for upgrades (scoreboards, bullpens, batting cages, drainage, restrooms) at Memorial Park and Meadows Park. - City Manager Sohaney reported increased police presence and other safety measures were already implemented. - Councilmember Perlman sought to direct staff to create a scope of work and solicit bids for improvements, but Mayor Thompson advised against formal motions in a workshop, recommending instead that staff gather estimates first. - A discussion on the Lake Wyman ADA project (removing one field) ensued. Councilmember Perlman wanted to explore preserving the field, but Councilmember Drucker noted the project is already under construction with grant funding and serves the disabled community. No consensus to change the Lake Wyman project. - Councilmember Perlman also raised the possibility of terminating the interlocal agreement with the Greater Boca Raton Beach and Park District for a softball complex at Sugar Sand Park, noting a 30-day termination clause. Staff confirmed the agreement is currently suspended and does not authorize expenditure. The mayor suggested adding the topic to the April 28, 2026 agenda for formal discussion. Key Outcomes - Staff will prepare revised language for the Save Boca ordinance and charter amendment, with carve-outs for utilities, drainage, easements, and nonprofits, and return to council. - Staff will cost out improvements to softball fields at Memorial Park and Meadows Park and report back. - The Sugar Sand Park softball complex interlocal agreement will be placed on the April 28, 2026 regular meeting agenda for possible termination discussion. - The Lake Wyman ADA park project will proceed as planned; no action to preserve the softball field. - The downtown civic engagement task force concept will be further discussed at the regular meeting on April 14, 2026, along with the possibility of using the Treasure Coast Regional Planning Council. - The plaque language for Memorial Park will be finalized and voted on at the April 14, 2026 regular meeting.

The Boca Raton Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) held a regular meeting on April 13, 2026, beginning at 1:30 PM. The meeting included a quasi-judicial public hearing for a development approval for Altier Jewelers, followed by public requests and a director's report on the summer meeting schedule. All actions were approved unanimously. Consent Calendar - The minutes of the regular meeting of March 23, 2026 were adopted unanimously (5-0). Quasi-Judicial Public Hearing: Altier Jewelers DDRI IDA CRP-96-05R2 - Consideration of an Individual Development Approval (IDA) for Altier Jewelers at 641 South Federal Highway on 0.43 acres. The project authorizes a change in use from office to retail (medium), construction of a 575-square-foot addition (from 4,960 to 5,535 total square feet), minor facade modifications, and related site improvements including removal of a drive-through and a curb cut on Federal Highway. The resulting office equivalent development remaining in Downtown Subarea F is 584 square feet. The project was recommended for approval by the Community Appearance Board (5-0 on Dec. 2, 2025) and the Planning and Zoning Board (7-0 on Feb. 19, 2026). - Ex parte disclosures: Vice Chair Drucker, Commissioner Grau, and Commissioner Sipple each disclosed a meeting with applicant attorney David Millich on April 9, 2026. Chair Thomson noted he was contacted by Mr. Millich but did not connect. Commissioner Pearlman reported no ex parte communications. - A code violation was identified: a roof encroachment into a required setback that was mistakenly approved in the original IDA and had existed for decades. The board directed staff to include a finding in the IDA formally acknowledging the prior nonconformity and ensuring it is not considered precedent. - Public comment: No members of the public spoke for or against the application. Public Comments & Testimony - Earl Starkoff (3260 St. Charles Way): Suggested restoring Memorial Park as true open civic green space, moving city operations to the new Congress Avenue location, using camera-based kiosks for downtown access, and building a modern, cost‑engineered public safety facility. He urged a holistic, compromise-based approach. - Dr. Brian Critchman (155 East Boca Raton Road): Questioned the city's response to potential vibration damage from the Misner Hotel project to the adjacent Tower 155 garage. He cited a city email stating damage would be a private matter and demanded a stop work order when sensors trigger. He expressed concern for resident safety, referencing the Surfside collapse. - Frank Patton (13 Royal Palm Way): Called for a healing process between the city and the community following events last summer. He supported a hybrid solution and a dedication on Memorial Day, referencing local history and the American Legion charter. - Diana Cooper (3240 Equestrian Drive): Representing families of girls' softball players, she criticized the condition of softball fields at Memorial Park as "embarrassing" and "unacceptable." She cited a disparity in amenities compared to other cities and requested immediate action, not studies or delays, emphasizing the need for clean, safe, equitable fields. Director's Report: Summer Meeting Schedule - Director Sohaney proposed a summer meeting schedule: May 26 (10 AM start due to Memorial Day), cancellation of the June 22 CRA/workshop and June 23 regular meeting, cancellation of July 13–14 meetings with a July 27–28 session, and cancellation of August 10–11 with an August 25–26 session. The schedule will be voted on at the April 28 meeting. Key Outcomes - Altier Jewelers IDA: Approved unanimously (5-0). The approval will include a formal finding acknowledging the historical roof encroachment error. Commissioner Reports - All commissioners reported no CRA-specific business. Chair Thomson noted the meeting proceeded smoothly and looked forward to continued work. Adjournment - The meeting adjourned at 2:05 PM.