Public Meetings - Boca Raton, Florida

The Boca Raton City Council held a workshop meeting on February 9, 2026, at 2:10 PM. The meeting covered board interviews for several advisory committees, discussion of future agenda items, public requests, and detailed updates from the city manager on the Town Center CIMD amendment and a traffic mobility plan. Several council members reported on state and federal legislative activities. The meeting adjourned at 3:37 PM. Consent Calendar - No consent calendar items were discussed; the review of regular agenda items was deferred to the regular meeting on February 10, 2026. Public Comments & Testimony - Jonathan Unjin (6501 Congress Avenue) spoke during public requests. He raised concerns about the special magistrate appointment process, arguing that it is a paid position appointed by council and may pose a conflict of interest. He also urged that the freestanding emergency room ordinance (Item 10a) not be postponed, arguing for a vibrant public discussion at the first reading on February 10, with second reading on February 24. He stated that the delay deprives the public of input and that the property owner (HCA) had already identified a suitable site, which had been challenged incorrectly. He also noted the need for emergency care access for the thousands of workers and future residents in the LERP area. Discussion Items Board Interviews - Citizens Pedestrian and Bikeway Advisory Board: Applicant Barry Apfel (2504 NW 66 Drive) expressed interest, citing 30 years of residency, a cycling background, and safety concerns from his career as a pharmacist seeing vehicular injuries. He was informed of financial disclosure requirements and said he had no issues with that. Council expressed appreciation and will make appointments at the regular meeting on February 10. - Marine Advisory Board: Two reapplicants spoke: - JP Dixon (245 S. Country Club Boulevard) highlighted the dredge return, efforts to address unauthorized commercial charters at Silver Pond Boat Ramp, and other board contributions. - Gene Fulton, chairman since the board's 2001 inception, discussed board work on waterways, parks, bridges, the inlet, anchoring, derelict vessels, and variances. He noted unresolved recommendations regarding commercial vessels at Silver Palm Park. - Special Magistrates: Three reapplicants were interviewed: - Kevin Wagner (15 years of service) emphasized upholding city code and encouraging compliance. - Judith Setcher (7 years of service for parking and code enforcement) noted her experience on the bench and desire to continue. - Harry Hipler (6 years of service) stressed listening to respondents and explaining rulings; he also serves as magistrate in five other cities. Future Agenda Matters – Freestanding Emergency Room Ordinance (Item 10a) - Councilmember Wigder requested postponement of Ordinance 5767 (freestanding emergency rooms) from the February 10 agenda to February 24, citing necessary amendments not yet included. He proposed amendments: adding LERP as a conditional use, a one-mile radius restriction between facilities, requiring primary road access (not secondary/tertiary), and prohibiting proximity to school zones due to safety conflicts. - Mayor supported postponement, noting the ordinance had been requested a year and a half ago and LERP was initially excluded but now should be added after discussions with stakeholders. He confirmed staff would be ready by February 24. - Councilmember Drucker agreed, emphasizing that freestanding ERs should be placed in appropriate areas for public safety and access, not banned. She supported deferral. - Deputy Mayor Nacklas stated that including LERP made sense from the beginning and did not oppose a two-week delay. - The council informally agreed to postpone the item to February 24 via a motion at the regular meeting; no formal vote was taken at the workshop. City Manager Report – Town Center CIMD Amendment Update - City Manager Sohaney introduced the item, emphasizing that the CIMD (Commercial Industrial Multifamily Development) program strategically places residential in commercial areas to reduce commute times and support commercial viability. - Development Services Director Brandon Shad presented an overview: the CIMD ordinance was adopted in early 2024 with a 2,500-unit cap (574 units remaining after approvals, exempting Tri-Rail station). So far, 2,187 units have been approved (including 220 affordable and 87 workforce) across seven projects, but none have permits issued yet. Three pending applications would add 517 units, leaving only 147 units remaining if approved. - Town Center Mall requested 400 additional units be added to the unit bank, designated exclusively for the redevelopment of the former Sears parcel (mixed-use project). A level-of-service analysis would be updated. - Council discussion: - Deputy Mayor Nacklas suggested this should be part of a larger conversation about the overall vision, including increasing affordable/workforce housing requirements (e.g., 15% affordable + 15% workforce), improved walkability/bike infrastructure, and updating the cap holistically. - Councilmember Wigder noted the Town Center Mall property (over 100 acres) could potentially develop more units under the state's Live Local Act without local approval, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and concurrency. He supported further discussion but wanted to ensure level-of-service and transit demand management (TDM) are considered. - Councilmember Drucker agreed that the Town Center area (midtown) is ripe for controlled residential growth, supporting the need for workforce housing and strong infrastructure planning. She expressed openness but wanted more conversation. - Councilmember Thompson had no immediate comment but requested staff provide additional context: the original recommended unit cap, how the request fits with other sites, and analysis of dedicating units exclusively to the mall. - Staff will come back in a few months with further analysis and direction from council. City Manager Report – Traffic Mobility Update - Public Works and Engineering Director Zach Beer presented the city's transportation and mobility progress: - Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) Program: The city has won three federal grants (2022, 2024, 2025) totaling $5.8 million with $1.6 million local match ($7.4 million total) for Vision Zero, bike/pedestrian investments, and signal/opticom technology. The Vision Zero Action Plan will be presented on the consent agenda. - Crash Data: Over the past six years, Boca Raton averages 7 crashes per day and 4 serious injury/fatal crashes per month. The majority of serious/fatal crashes (67%) occur on state and county roads (6% and 8% of center line miles) rather than city roads (86% of center line miles, but fewer crashes). The high-injury crash network comprises 7% of roadway miles (27 corridor segments, 63 intersections). - Planned Countermeasures: Speed management, protecting vulnerable road users, site-specific measures, policies/programs. Specific projects include downtown pedestrian enhancements, Palmetto Park Road traffic calming, roundabout evaluation, school flasher upgrades, and education/outreach (bike rodeos, safety fairs). - Mobility Plan: A year-long effort to identify multimodal needs through 2050, supporting concurrency standards and a potential mobility fee. The plan will inform the countywide transportation plan. - Councilmember Drucker praised the work and noted her roles (MPO chair, NLC committee) advocating for federal funding. Councilmember Nacklas highlighted the need for safe routes to school, speed feedback signs, and continued enforcement/countermeasures for speeding. Councilmember Wigder discussed AI signal timing, coordination with railroads, and potential for autonomous vehicles. Staff will evaluate corridor-by-corridor improvements and continue data-driven approaches. Council Member Reports - Councilmember Drucker reported on her reappointment to the NLC transportation committee, upcoming DC advocacy for reauthorizing the Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill, MPOAC meeting, FDOT wrong-way driving detection on I-95, and monitoring state legislation (SB 1220, property tax bills, local government spending bill). She also announced the Tri-Rail link groundbreaking on February 13. - Councilmember Wigder mentioned attending the Palm Beach County League of Cities trip to Tallahassee and will provide additional details at the regular meeting. - Mayor noted potential discussion on the downtown campus plan enabling ordinance, possibly requiring future council approval for including additional parcels, to address neighborhood concerns about traffic and scale. Key Outcomes - Board Appointments: All appointments to the Pedestrian and Bikeway Advisory Board, Marine Advisory Board, and Special Magistrate positions will be made at the regular meeting on February 10, 2026. Applicants were told they need not attend to be considered. - Freestanding Emergency Room Ordinance: Council informally agreed to postpone Ordinance 5767 from February 10 to February 24, 2026, to allow staff to incorporate amendments (including LERP as a conditional use, radius restriction, access requirements, and school zone prohibition). A formal motion will be made at the regular meeting. - Town Center CIMD Amendment: Council directed staff to conduct further analysis (updated level-of-service, holistic review of unit cap and affordability requirements, and implications of dedicating units to the mall) and to return for discussion in a few months. No deadline was set. - Traffic Mobility Plan: Staff will continue implementing the Vision Zero Action Plan, deploy AI-coordinated signal timing on additional corridors, pursue federal grants, and develop the mobility plan over the next year. The consent agenda on February 10 will include a work order for the countywide transportation plan. - Legislative Monitoring: Councilmembers will continue to track state and federal legislative developments affecting local government spending, transportation funding, and property taxes, reporting back as needed.

The Boca Raton Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) held a regularly scheduled meeting on Monday, February 9, 2026, at 1:30 PM in the Auditorium at 6500 N. Congress Avenue. The meeting was called to order by Chair Marc Wigder, with all five commissioners present. The primary agenda item was a resolution consenting to the assignment of four commercial leases at Mizner Park. The meeting lasted approximately 31 minutes, adjourning at 2:01 PM. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: The minutes of the Regular Meetings of January 5, 2026, and January 20, 2026, were approved unanimously by a voice vote (motion by Commissioner Drucker, second by Commissioner Nachlas). Public Comments & Testimony Three members of the public spoke during the public hearing on Resolution No. 2026-02-CRA: - Mr. Perlman (representing Save Boca) opposed the assignment, asserting that Mizner Park was originally marketed as a cultural center and park but became a commercial development. He argued that the current leaseholders (Brookfield) had previously sued the city to reduce the fair market value of the land, and he warned that the new assignment could lead to similar litigation, characterizing the original deal as a “scam” that cost the CRA millions. - Mr. Richard Warner (1322 Southwest Ninth Terrace) agreed with Mr. Perlman, calling Mizner Park a “sacred cow” that was never a success. He criticized the CRA’s historic decision to “crush the tracks” downtown and suggested the lease assignment should serve as a cautionary tale for the proposed P3 project on the east side of Second Avenue. - Mr. Jonathan Runjun (6501 Congress Avenue) expressed strong support for Mizner Park, describing it as a “great thing” for the city and its residents, particularly those east of the tracks who can walk there. He disagreed with claims of conflict of interest and urged the city to provide similar benefits to the west side of downtown. Discussion Items Resolution No. 2026-02-CRA – Assignment of Mizner Park Leases - Deputy City Manager Camejo presented the resolution, explaining that the CRA’s discretion was limited under the lease agreements to evaluating whether the proposed assignees have financial wherewithal equal to or greater than the current lessees, and whether any criminal convictions exist. He noted that the new management includes individuals involved in the original creation of Mizner Park, such as Angela Bianco, and that the financial wherewithal standard had been met. - Commissioners questioned the financial backing of the new special purpose entities (SPEs) and their parent companies. Staff confirmed that financial statements (a 10-Q for Stepstone Group Inc. and a consolidated statement for Acre) were reviewed, but no parent guarantees were provided or required under the existing leases—a condition consistent with Brookfield’s current tenancy. City Attorney Kaler clarified that the CRA would have recourse (default) if obligations were not met. - Commissioner Thomson asked about the relationship between the SPEs and their parent companies; the applicant’s attorney, Bonnie Miskel, stated that the assignees step into the existing lease terms with no changes. - Chair Wigder and Commissioner Nachlas offered historical context, noting that Mizner Park was created by voter referendum and that property values in the surrounding area have increased dramatically. They defended Mizner Park as a cultural and economic asset. Key Outcomes - Vote: The board unanimously approved Resolution No. 2026-02-CRA, consenting to the assignment of the retail, Phase II, Office I, and Office II leases at Mizner Park. The roll call vote was 5–0 (Chair Wigder, Vice Chair Thomson, Commissioners Drucker, Nachlas, and Singer all voting yes). - Next Steps: The resolution authorizes execution of the assignment documents. The CRA then adjourned to a workshop meeting, where the Director’s report indicated a mobility update would be presented. Other Business & Reports - Director’s Report: No formal report was given, but a mobility update was noted for the upcoming workshop. - Attorney’s Report: No report. - Commissioners’ Reports: Commissioner Drucker reminded residents to download the Circuit app for downtown transportation and use Boca Connect. Commissioner Nachlas encouraged residents to use the Clicks Fix app to report issues like broken street signs. Chair Wigder highlighted events at Mizner Park and directed residents to MyBoca.us for information.

The Planning and Zoning Board met on February 5, 2026, to consider several quasi-judicial and legislative items, including a mixed-use redevelopment at 101 E Palmetto Park Road, a major residential and fitness center expansion at The Boca Raton resort, a city-initiated text amendment to align building heights in R-2 and R-3-D districts with single-family districts, and a package of downtown campus master plan ordinances. All items were recommended for approval to City Council with unanimous votes. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes of the January 8, 2026 regular meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - Donna Bloomberg (101 E Camino Real) opposed the reduction of parking from 59 to zero spaces at 101 E Palmetto, arguing that eliminating parking hurts local residents who drive and that the city is allowing developers to waive parking requirements without providing infrastructure. - Mark Clayman (434 Addison Estates) requested details on construction timeline, impact on Addison Estates, and contact information for sales. - Stephanie Rosenzwag (200 SE Mizner Boulevard) expressed concerns about construction traffic and safety at the SE Mizner Boulevard entrance, requesting a defined construction management plan and assurance that the entrance would not become a construction or resident entry. - Michael Martin (downtown resident) questioned why the downtown campus ordinances are being considered before a public referendum, and raised traffic congestion issues. - Donna Bloomberg also commented on the downtown campus items, questioning infrastructure planning, relocation of government employees, and potential taxpayer burden. Discussion Items 101 East Palmetto (IDA) - Staff presented a proposal to convert 2,555 sq ft of second-floor retail to four studio apartments, add a 2,382 sq ft courtyard, and a 550 sq ft outdoor seating area for a new restaurant, with a technical deviation to reduce parking from 59 to zero spaces, relying on a Transportation Demand Management program including transit passes and annual contributions. - Board members suggested moving outdoor seating from the sidewalk to the courtyard. The applicant agreed to modify condition 10 to allow seating in the courtyard. - The board approved the item with that modification. The Boca Raton Residential and Parking Structure (Items 5.B.i-iv) - Four related applications for a 1.774-acre portion of the resort: Future Land Use Map amendment from PR to RH, rezoning from REC to R-5, master plan amendment, and site plan for an 8-story, 76-unit residential building with underground parking. - Staff noted the building height (100 ft) is comparable to nearby structures, and the project includes a 6-ft sidewalk along Mizner Village Boulevard. - The applicant (Bonnie Miskel, Jim Tinson) explained the project replaces a golf maintenance facility, adds 14 net new units (from 1,126 to 1,140), and protects mature trees. - Public comment: pedestrian safety and construction traffic concerns. Staff clarified that the Mizner Village Boulevard entrance is restricted to hotel employees and service vehicles per existing condition, but construction entrance is not specifically prohibited. - All four items were approved unanimously. The Boca Raton Fitness Center (Items 5.C.i-ii) - Conditional use and site plan for a 3-story, 31,695 sq ft fitness center (52 ft tall) in the REC district, exceeding the 25-ft height limit. - The facility will replace an existing cart staging area near the golf clubhouse, with improved landscaping and no increase in vehicle trips or parking. - The board approved both items. Building Height in Single Family, R-2, and R-3-D Districts (Item 7.A) - City-initiated ordinance to amend height limits in R-2 and R-3-D districts to match single-family districts (allowing up to 35 ft on 40% of roof area for architectural quality, and conditional use for non-residential over 25 ft). - Staff explained the change corrects a historical oversight and provides consistency. The board approved. Downtown Campus Master Plan Ordinances (Items 7.B.i-ii, 7.C, 7.D) - Four related ordinances: (1) Future Land Use Map amendment redesignating 9.82 acres (library/Brightline site and adjacent block) to Central Business District; (2) Comprehensive Plan policy amendment to replace the DDRI Development Order with new land development regulations; (3) DDRI amendment adding the properties, reallocating 322,199 sq ft of Office Equivalent development rights to Subarea A, and removing transfer limits; (4) New Downtown Zoning District with form-based code, first subdistrict for the Government Center area. - Staff emphasized that the new regulations are needed because the DDRI expires in 2028, and the ordinances enable the Downtown Campus P3 project subject to a future referendum. - Public comment questioned the timing and traffic impacts. - The board approved all four items. Key Outcomes - 101 East Palmetto: Approved with modification to allow outdoor seating in the courtyard (5-0). - Boca Raton Residential (FLUM, Rezoning, Master Plan, Site Plan): All four items approved (5-0 each). - Boca Raton Fitness Center (Conditional Use, Site Plan): Both approved (5-0 each). - Building Height Text Amendment: Approved (5-0). - Downtown Campus Ordinances (FLUM, Policy, DDRI, Zoning District): All four approved (5-0 each). - All recommendations will be forwarded to the City Council.

This special meeting of the Boca Raton City Council was held on January 27, 2026, at 9:00 AM to consider Resolution No. 006-2026, which addresses a referendum petition affidavit submitted by a political committee, and to introduce Ordinance No. 5772, which clarifies the legal consequences of a negative vote in the upcoming March 10, 2026 citywide referendum on the Downtown Campus public-private partnership. The meeting lasted approximately 36 minutes, concluding at 9:36 AM. Public Comments & Testimony - Joe Magis (254 Northeast Fifth Street) – Representing himself as a member of the original 'Save BOCA' committee. He argued that the new petition to repeal Ordinance 5769 would undermine the public vote already secured for March 10, 2026. He stated that the contract’s Section 23.24 conditions the agreement on voter approval, calling the petition effort “disingenuous and hypocritical.” He urged the public not to be misled by claims that the vote is not guaranteed. - John Perlman (498 Northeast A Street) – A proponent of the new petition. He alleged that the city attorney made an “extraordinary change” to the contract that would make it binding even if the referendum did not occur. He asserted that the council is trying to prevent a vote and that the public is overwhelmingly against the project. He vowed to continue collecting signatures under the City Charter’s Section 6.02. - Richard Warner (1322 Southwest 9th Terrace) – Expressed confusion and distrust of the council (except Council Member Thomson). He questioned why millions of dollars are being spent to promote a yes vote and asked what would happen if voters reject the project. Mayor Singer responded that the developer is free to advocate, and that a no vote would leave the city to evaluate other options for the downtown campus. - Jonathan Unjin (6501 Congress Avenue) – Criticized the leadership of the original Save BOCA committee for not taking a win after securing a vote and for instructing the community not to engage with the council or developer. He called the new petition a “dictatorship” and urged the public to reject it. - Yudmila Schneider Perlman (498 Northeast Eighth Street) – Stated that the purpose of the new petition is to “ensure our right to vote,” arguing that the city has made promises that cannot be trusted. Discussion Items - Resolution No. 006-2026 – The council considered a resolution finding that the referendum petition affidavit submitted by a political committee (later identified as associated with candidate John Perlman) is duplicative of the binding citywide referendum already scheduled for March 10, 2026. The resolution directs the City Clerk not to process or accept signature pages submitted under that affidavit. City Attorney Taylor explained that the March 10 referendum is binding: if voters approve, the project moves forward; if they reject, the ordinance authorizing the transaction is automatically repealed. He noted that the city’s legal team (including special counsel and outside litigation counsel) all reached the same conclusion. Council members expressed frustration that the new petition creates confusion and is based on false statements. - Introduction of Ordinance No. 5772 – This ordinance was introduced (not voted on) to make explicit that if voters reject the project on March 10, Ordinance No. 5769 (which conditionally authorized the transaction) is automatically repealed. The city attorney described it as a “belt and suspenders” provision to remove any ambiguity. The ordinance was introduced by a council member (likely Deputy Mayor Nachlas) and will be considered at a future meeting. Key Outcomes - Vote on Resolution No. 006-2026: The council voted 5-0 to adopt the resolution. The roll call indicated all five members present (Mayor Singer, Deputy Mayor Nachlas, Council Members Drucker, Thomson, and Wigder) voted in favor. - Introduction of Ordinance No. 5772: The ordinance was introduced and will be subject to a future public hearing and vote. No further action was taken at this meeting. - Next Steps: The March 10, 2026 citywide referendum will proceed as scheduled. Vote-by-mail is already underway. The council emphasized that the public will have the final say.

The Planning and Zoning Board met on January 22, 2026 at 6:00 PM to consider a proposed ordinance clarifying requirements for on-site retail sales or services in Commercial Industrial Multifamily Developments (CIMDs). The board also approved the minutes from the December 18, 2025 meeting. Consent Calendar - Unanimous approval (6-0) of the minutes of the regular meeting of December 18, 2025. Public Comments & Testimony - David Millich (14 Southeast 4th Street, Boca Raton) expressed general support for legitimate retail in CIMDs but raised several concerns: ambiguity whether the requirements apply off-site (staff clarified they apply only on-site); the exclusion of gyms and fitness centers should be broadened to exclude all typical residential amenities; the 60-hour-per-week minimum operating hours is too high; advertising and marketing requirements are onerous for small businesses; and potential conflict with the city’s sign code. Staff acknowledged the hours issue and offered to work on clarifying language. Discussion Items - CIMD Retail Sales or Services Clarification (Ordinance Amendment): Brandon Schaad, Development Services Director, presented the history of the CIMD program, adopted in February 2024 to allow multifamily housing in commercial/industrial zones with affordable housing requirements. The proposal adds a definition of “retail sales or services” that excludes gyms/fitness centers and tutoring establishments, and establishes criteria for on-site retail: independent operation, ground-floor exterior entrance, public accessibility, exterior identification, and public marketing. Staff recommended approval, stating the ordinance will further comprehensive plan goals for walkability and reduced vehicle miles traveled. Board members debated specific provisions: - Hours of operation: The proposed 60-hour minimum was discussed. Public comment suggested 30 hours; staff argued 30 is too few. Chair Sevell proposed 50, then 45. Board agreed on 45 hours per week. - A scrivener’s error on page 4, line 19 was noted: the phrase should confirm the requirements apply only to on-site uses, not off-site. Staff committed to correcting this before the City Council meeting. Key Outcomes - Motion to approve the ordinance amendment as presented, with two modifications: (1) correct the scrivener’s error to clarify on-site applicability, and (2) reduce the required minimum operating hours from 60 to 45 hours per week. The motion passed unanimously (6-0). The recommendation will be forwarded to the City Council for final adoption.

On January 20, 2026, the Boca Raton City Council held a regular meeting lasting from 10:01 a.m. to approximately 4:15 p.m. The primary focus was the consideration of Ordinance No. 5769, which authorizes a public-private partnership (P3) with Terra Frisbee (via Boca Raton City Center, LLC) for the redevelopment of the downtown government campus. The council also approved a consent agenda, heard public requests on various topics, and introduced two ordinances related to comprehensive plan amendments and a new downtown zoning district. Consent Calendar - Garbage truck replacements (Nextran Truck Centers, $1,415,722) - Regenerative street sweeper replacement (Industrial Trucks and Equipment, $266,472) - Combination jet sewer & vacuum cleaning truck replacement (Nextran Truck Centers, $715,506) - Copiers and managed print solutions (Toshiba America Business Solutions, $203,480) All items were approved unanimously (5-0). Public Comments & Testimony Over 40 individuals signed up to speak on Ordinance 5769. Key themes included: - Supporters (residents, veterans, business owners, young professionals) argued the project would modernize city facilities, create workforce housing (77 units at 120% AMI), generate significant long-term revenue ($382 million net present value from operating revenues, $5.5 billion undiscounted), preserve Memorial Park, and enhance downtown vibrancy. Several veterans praised the planned memorial park improvements. - Opponents (residents, Save Boca members, mayoral candidate Mike Liebelson) raised concerns about the 99-year lease, traffic impacts (citing existing congestion on Palmetto Park Road), financial risk to the city, lack of transparency, and the developer's litigation history (Surfside collapse). Some questioned the appraisal ($99 million) and the city's $201 million contribution to public improvements. Others argued the city could fund its own facilities without a P3. - Neutral/Procedural speakers (e.g., veteran representatives) focused on ensuring Memorial Park is properly honored, without taking a position on the project. Discussion Items Ordinance 5769 – Downtown Campus Redevelopment City Manager Mark Sohaney, Deputy City Manager Andy Lukasik, City Attorney, and PFM consultant Kevin Plensler presented the Master Partnership Agreement (MPA) and related documents. Key provisions: - 99-year ground lease for 7.8 acres east of NW 2nd Avenue (reduced from 31 acres). - Developer responsible for design, construction, and maintenance of private development (1.2 million sq. ft. mixed-use). - City retains fee simple ownership; all improvements revert to city at lease end. - Revenue streams: base rent, percentage rent (gross revenue participation), participation rent (upside sharing), transfer fees, payment in lieu of taxes (PILOT), and property taxes. - PFM updated fiscal impact analysis: net present value of direct revenues $299 million; total operating revenues $382 million; bonding capacity estimated at $127 million (with percentage rent) to $107 million (floor rent) to offset public improvement costs. - Traffic mitigation: developer to pay up to $4 million in mitigation fees, plus 50% of NW 2nd Avenue improvements, and comply with a new Exhibit L incorporating traffic analysis methodology. - Workforce housing: 10% of rental units (77 units) at rents affordable to households earning up to 120% of area median income ($111,000 in 2025). - Council discussion: Members debated the project's financial merits, traffic, and public trust. Councilmember Thompson opposed, citing risk allocation and traffic concerns; others supported the project as a strategic investment. Public Requests (after the ordinance vote): Several residents spoke about emergency medical access, requesting clarity on a previously approved free-standing emergency room that was later reversed. Others raised concerns about the city's charter compliance regarding the Save Boca ballot initiative and dog access in parks. Introduction of Ordinances - Ordinance No. 5770: Comprehensive Plan amendments (evaluation and appraisal review). - Ordinance No. 5771: Creation of the “Downtown” Zoning District, replacing the DDRI development order. Both were introduced for future public hearings. Key Outcomes - Ordinance 5769 adopted by a vote of 4-1 (Councilmember Thomson dissenting). The ordinance is contingent on a voter referendum on March 10, 2026. If approved by a majority of voters, the agreements will take effect. - Consent Agenda approved unanimously (5-0). - Ordinances 5770 and 5771 introduced for further consideration at subsequent meetings. - The council committed to revisiting board and committee structures at a future workshop.

The Boca Raton Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) met on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, at 4:30 PM. The primary action item was a vote on Resolution No. 2026-01-CRA, which authorizes the CRA's participation in the Downtown Campus redevelopment project. Chair Marc Wigder also presented conceptual visions for a restored City Hall and strategic downtown park acquisitions. The meeting adjourned at 4:57 PM. Public Comments & Testimony - John Perlman (representing Save Boca Inc.) urged Chair Wigder not to sign the transaction documents before the March 10, 2026, referendum. He questioned the City Attorney's fiduciary role, alleging a conflict of interest. Chair Wigder and Commissioners Singer, Drucker, Nachlas, and Thompson strongly defended City Attorney Kaler's integrity and commitment to the city. - Mr. Warner (1322 SW Ninth Terrace) stated he believed the process and project were "corrupt" (clarifying he meant flawed rather than criminal), asserted that the council lacks public trust, and claimed "nine out of ten people feel the way I do." Discussion Items - Resolution No. 2026-01-CRA (Downtown Campus Redevelopment): City Attorney Kaler presented the resolution. The CRA's role is limited to providing Tax Increment Financing (TIF) for eligible public improvements. The CRA does not own the property. The effectiveness of the resolution is contingent on voter approval in a March 10, 2026, referendum. - Chair Wigder's Vision for City Hall and Memorial Park: Chair Wigder presented a conceptual design by architect George Garcia (Garcia Stromberg). The proposal calls for restoring the 1964 City Hall as a mid-century modern landmark, integrating a police substation, post office, and community/museum space. It also includes converting surface parking to underground parking to create a large park field, maintaining the Banyan villages, and creating an east-west connection. - Strategic Park Acquisition Plan: Chair Wigder proposed acquiring two parcels for public parks as downtown gateways: 1) The old church site at Palmetto Park Road and 12th Avenue (gateway park, potential pedestrian bridge landing). 2) The site adjacent to Wildflower Park (eastern gateway from the barrier island). Funding would come from the city's Recreation Fund and potential CRA/county cooperation. Commissioner Singer cautioned that negotiating specific parcels publicly could weaken the city's position and suggested private owners might consider donations for the public benefit. - Announcement: A public meeting for the new Police Department headquarters was announced for January 21, 2026, at 6:00 PM at the Spanish River Library. Key Outcomes - Resolution 2026-01-CRA Passed (4-1): The CRA voted to approve the resolution authorizing transaction documents for the Downtown Campus project. Commissioners Drucker, Singer, Nachlas, and Wigder voted in favor. Vice Chair Thomson voted against. - Future Workshop Discussion: Chair Wigder's conceptual plans for City Hall and park acquisitions will be discussed at a future CRA workshop.

The Planning and Zoning Board met on January 8, 2026, at 6:00 PM to consider three major items: an amendment to the Boca Technology Center Development of Regional Impact (DRI), the 2025 Evaluation and Appraisal of the Comprehensive Plan, and a new ordinance regulating freestanding emergency facilities. The board approved all items, with amendments to the emergency facilities ordinance. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes of the regular meetings of November 20, 2025, and December 4, 2025, by unanimous voice votes. Public Comments & Testimony - Boca Technology Center DRI Amendment: Multiple property owners within the DRI (Geo Group, Centra Homeowners Association, BV Partners, and others) requested a 30-day continuance, citing lack of notice, unanswered questions about obligations after the departure of the largest property owner, and concerns about future management of the DRI. The applicant, David Millage, opposed the continuance, stating that the remaining owners have until the City Council hearing (February 24, 2026) to conduct due diligence. One public speaker criticized the process as a repeat of earlier actions by Crocker Partners. - Freestanding Emergency Facilities: Several speakers opposed the proposed ordinance as overly restrictive. Jeffrey Barker (Nelson Mullins) argued that the map of allowed locations is too limited and suggested adding LERP and other commercial districts. Jonathan Ungen criticized the fast-tracking and exclusion of LERP. Larry Silver (owner of 1001 East Telecom Drive) argued that the use is low-traffic and should be allowed near population centers. Greg DeSantis (Silver Companies) offered expertise on traffic and parking. One speaker noted that the city council had already heard the item before the board, which they considered prejudicial. Discussion Items - Boca Technology Center DRI Amendment (SC-25-07): The board considered a resolution to reduce the DRI from 217.5 acres to 87.9 acres (a 129.6-acre reduction) by removing the 124.2-acre Boca Raton Innovation Campus (BRIC) at 5000 T-Rex Avenue and a 5.4-acre parcel at 950 NW Spanish River Boulevard. Staff reported that the DRI is nearly built out, with only 49,000 square feet of office and 100 square feet of retail remaining. All traffic mitigation improvements have been completed. The board questioned staff about impacts on remaining properties and confirmed that no entitlements are being removed. The public hearing included testimony from the applicant and concerned property owners. The board denied the continuance request and proceeded to vote. - Evaluation and Appraisal of Comprehensive Plan 2025 (SC-25-01): Jim Bell presented a comprehensive update to the city’s 20-year plan, required by Florida Statutes Chapter 163. The update extends planning horizons to 2035 and 2045, incorporates 2020 census data, updates all elements (e.g., Future Land Use, Transportation, Housing, Conservation, etc.), and revises map series. Staff stated the amendments are mostly housekeeping and comply with state law. No public comments were offered. - Freestanding Emergency Facilities Ordinance (AM-25-11): Tamashbeen Rahman presented a city-initiated text amendment to allow freestanding emergency facilities as conditional uses in B-4, MC, City CG, and City CHO zoning districts, with criteria including direct access from an arterial road, no adjacency to single-family residences, and no access through a school zone. The map of eligible properties was very limited. Board members expressed concern that the ordinance was too restrictive, particularly excluding LERP (a major employment and residential area). They noted that the only previously approved freestanding emergency facility (at 1001 East Telecom Drive) was in LERP but was later reversed by City Council. After discussion, the board proposed amendments: add LERP to the allowed districts, impose a 1-mile distance separation requirement between any such facilities, clarify that the property must be on an arterial road but the entrance does not have to be on that road, and remove the school zone restriction. Key Outcomes - Boca Technology Center DRI Amendment: Motion to approve the amendment passed 6-0. The board recommended approval to the City Council, noting that the applicant agreed to share information with remaining property owners before the City Council hearing. - Evaluation and Appraisal of Comprehensive Plan: Motion to approve the comprehensive plan amendments passed 6-0. The recommendation will be forwarded to the City Council for transmittal to the Florida Department of Commerce. - Freestanding Emergency Facilities Ordinance: Motion to approve the ordinance with the following amendments passed 6-0: (1) include LERP as an allowed zoning district, (2) require a minimum 1-mile separation between any freestanding emergency facilities citywide, (3) require the property to be on an arterial road but allow the entrance to be via a side street, and (4) remove the prohibition on access through a school zone. The recommendation will go to the City Council for final action.

The Boca Raton City Council met on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, at 6:00 PM for a regular meeting. The agenda included presentations, board appointments, consent agenda, a major discussion on the Government Campus Redevelopment Partnership Opportunity (introduction of Ordinance 5769), and several public hearings. Councilmember Marc Wigder was absent due to illness. Consent Calendar - Minutes of the December 15, 2025 workshop and December 16, 2025 regular meeting were approved unanimously. - Board Resignations accepted: Elysse Dallas and Brian Wood from the Pedestrian and Bikeway Advisory Board. - Resolution No. 001-2026: Authorized Work Order No. 2 with Craven Thompson & Associates for Delray Manors Infrastructure upgrades design and bid preparation. - Resolution No. 002-2026: Authorized agreement with Institute of Police Technology and Management for overtime funding for pedestrian/bicycle safety enforcement. - Resolution No. 003-2026: Authorized agreement with Shenandoah General Construction, LLC for storm drain cleaning, repairs, and maintenance services. - Resolution No. 004-2026: Recommended Project Vernon (confidential quantum computing company) as a qualified applicant for incentives up to $500,000, leveraging state tax credits at a 12:1 ratio. Approved 4-0. Public Comments & Testimony - Jonathan Unjin and Richard Warner spoke on the consent agenda, questioning the $500,000 incentive for an unnamed quantum computing company, urging caution on the company’s viability. - Lorraine Blank criticized the city’s handling of tree preservation, alleging planned tree destruction from construction, and announced the website DowntownBocaRioFacts.org. - Michael Massarella read a Sun Sentinel op-ed supporting the One Boca project, emphasizing economic benefits. - Steve Zentoval (CPA) argued the discount rate used (4.5%-5%) is too low, stating proper rates of 7-12% would drastically reduce net present value, showing city subsidizes developer. - Richard Warner accused the council of ignoring public opposition. - Michelle Grow (CPA, council candidate) detailed risks in the Letter of Intent, including high risk from discounted rents, loss of control, and only 15-year affordability (later corrected to 30 by staff). - Jerry Legroya advocated for Mediterranean architecture consistent with Addison Mizner’s vision. - John Perlman (founder of Save Boca) accused the city of subverting democracy by hiding contract language that could avoid the referendum. He stated he spent over $100,000 of his own money and vowed to ensure the March 10 referendum occurs. - Jason Haber (adjunct professor) supported the project as people-centric transit-oriented development, comparing it to Mizner Park’s 1989 approval. - Mac Johnson praised the simplicity of the Save Boca ballot language. - Pam Pashke (CPA) questioned revenues: condominium development on adjacent private land should not be included in city revenue projections for the lease deal. - Martha Parker (CPA) raised concerns about transparency, insufficient public discussion by the Planning & Zoning Board, and called for clear summaries of key terms. - Joe Majus argued the project is a bad deal—the city pays $200M+ for facilities while giving away 8 acres for 99 years. He requested neutrality in the referendum clause: if referendum is delayed by force majeure, it should be rescheduled for the next available election. - Brianna Hayquist opposed the project, speaking on behalf of gopher tortoises at Sugar Sand Park, and urged council not to sign the contract before the referendum. - Mike Liebelson (mayoral candidate) noted $201 million city funding for public facilities; he argued the city doesn’t need Terra Frisbee and should scrap the deal. - Leslie Del Monte (planner/architect) criticized the exclusion of LERP zoning district from the freestanding emergency facility ordinance, stating LERP is exactly where such facilities are needed. - Jacob Abraham called Ordinance 5766 a "mockery" of the Save Boca ballot measure, enabling council to bypass a referendum with only two public hearings. - Several other speakers expressed opposition to the government campus project and supported the referendum. Discussion Items - Government Campus Redevelopment Partnership (Item 10A): Deputy City Manager Luke Lucasak, CBRE (Leanne Corse, Mike McShea), and City Attorney Joshua Kaler presented the project. The plan involves a 99-year ground lease for mixed-use transit-oriented development on 8 acres east of NW 2nd Avenue, with civic facilities (city hall, community center, police substation) on the west side. The developer, Terra Frisbee, will pay percentage rent and a $7.8 million mobility improvement fee. The city retains fee simple ownership. A critical issue was Section 23.24 of the Master Partnership Agreement (MPA) regarding the March 10, 2026 voter referendum. Councilman Thompson proposed amendments to ensure the referendum is not subverted—adding language that postponement due to circumstances outside city/developer control would reschedule for the next available election, and removing survival clauses that could keep the agreement alive if the referendum fails. City Attorney Kaler agreed to remove the survival clause and incorporate new language. Council scheduled the second reading and potential vote for January 20, 2026. - Ordinance 5762 – Live Local Act Amendments: To align with 2024/2025 state law changes, including maximum FAR of 1.5, parking reductions, height limits, administrative approval, and rental affordability for 30 years. Adopted 4-0. - Ordinance 5767 – Freestanding Emergency Facilities: First reading; allows such facilities as conditional uses in B-4, MC, City CG, and City CHO districts, with specific locational criteria (not adjacent to single-family, direct arterial access). No vote taken; second hearing February 10, 2026. - Ordinances 5763 and 5764 – Construction & Demolition Debris Franchise Agreements: Authorized franchise agreements with MST Scrap Metal Inc. and S. MacDonald Contracting LLC. Each requires $2,500 annual fee and 15% monthly gross revenue. Adopted 4-0 each. - Ordinance 5765 – Trespass Warnings on City Property: Establishes procedures for issuing warnings on city property. Adopted 4-0. - Ordinance 5766 – Protection of City-Owned Lands (Public Purpose Safeguards): Requires two public hearings and written findings for sale/lease/disposition of city land 0.5 acre. Exceptions for easements, routine municipal purposes. Adopted 3-1 (Councilman Thomson opposed). - Introduction of Ordinance 5769: Authorizing the transaction with Boca Raton City Center LLC for the downtown campus redevelopment. Introduced without vote; public hearing and potential approval on January 20, 2026. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda Approved (including Project Vernon incentive) – 4-0. - Board Appointments: Elliot Popper to Pedestrian and Bikeway Advisory Board; Annaly Hambrick and Michael Zimmerman to Community Advisory Panel; Valerie Selznick to Sustainability Advisory Board. - Ordinance 5762 (Live Local Act) Adopted – 4-0. - Ordinance 5763 and 5764 (Franchise Agreements) Adopted – 4-0 each. - Ordinance 5765 (Trespass Warnings) Adopted – 4-0. - Ordinance 5766 (Protection of City-Owned Lands) Adopted – 3-1 (Thomson dissenting). - Government Campus Discussion: Council will consider amendments to MPA referendum language and take a vote at the January 20, 2026 meeting. - Next Steps for Freestanding Emergency Facilities: Second public hearing on February 10, 2026. - Next Steps for Government Campus: Second reading of Ordinance 5769 on January 20, 2026, followed by comprehensive plan amendments in February and voter referendum on March 10, 2026.