Public Meetings - Boca Raton, Florida

The Boca Raton Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) held a brief regular meeting on January 5, 2026, from 1:32 PM to 1:48 PM. The meeting focused on public requests regarding the proposed Boca Raton City Center LLC project and the upcoming March 10, 2026 referendum. City Attorney Gerry Kahler addressed concerns about contract language and proposed clarifying amendments. Consent Calendar - Minutes of December 15, 2025: Approved unanimously by voice vote. Public Comments & Testimony - John Perlman (498 NE A Street) – Speaking on behalf of about 150 citizens who sent emails to the City Council. He urged the CRA not to approve Ordinance 5769 or sign any contract with Boca Raton City Center LLC until after the March 10 referendum. He argued that contract language stating that failure of the referendum to occur “shall not be deemed a rejection” contradicts prior promises that the project would be subject to voter approval. He called the premature signing a “misfeasance” and called on Chair Wigder to vote against the ordinance and not sign the document. - Mike Liebelson (398 NE Third Court, mayoral candidate) – Expressed that he does not accept developer contributions. He accused the Council of paving the way for an “anti-democratic move” by extending the deal to May, failing to put the Save BOCA charter amendment to a vote within 90 days, and changing contract language to bind the city. He stated that the people will reject the deal and officials are trying to take away the vote. He urged voting down Ordinance 5769 and not signing any contract until the referendum. Discussion Items - City Attorney’s Report on Contract Language: Mr. Kahler explained that the council must finalize deal terms in January so residents know exactly what they are voting on in March, consistent with the Supervisor of Elections’ January 24 mailing deadline. He addressed the clause that some members of the public criticized, stating it was drafted to ensure that the referendum cannot be invalidated by circumstances beyond the city’s or partner’s control (e.g., a state of emergency). He emphasized the intent was to keep the decision with voters, not to bypass the vote. He proposed alternative language to clarify: “the postponement delay or rescheduling of the referendum due to circumstances outside the control or decision-making authority of the city or the partner, including without limitation, a declared state of emergency or other force majeure event shall not constitute a rejection of the referendum.” - Commissioner Comments: Chair Wigder acknowledged the speakers but noted many inaccuracies. He supported the attorney’s proposed clarifying language. Mayor Scott Singer (as acting Chair) reinforced that the city remains committed to a public vote, that the contract must be finalized for voters to know what they are approving, and that staff worked hard over the weekend to resolve deal terms. No other commissioners offered reports. Key Outcomes - No formal votes or decisions were taken on the Boca Raton City Center deal or Ordinance 5769 at this meeting. - The CRA will consider the final terms and the amended contract language at a subsequent meeting scheduled for January 20, 2026, ahead of the March 10 referendum. - The meeting adjourned at 1:48 PM, to be followed immediately by a City Council workshop on the downtown campus project.

The Planning and Zoning Board held a special meeting on December 18, 2025, at 6:00 PM to consider a single agenda item: a recommendation to the City Council on the advisability of conveying a 99-year leasehold interest in approximately 7.8 acres of city-owned property near the Brightline Station as part of the Downtown Campus public-private partnership (P3) project. After staff presentations and public testimony, the board voted unanimously (7-0) to recommend the lease as advisable from a planning and land-use standpoint. Public Comments & Testimony - David Kaye (327 East Royal Palm Road) expressed strong support, arguing the project is essential for downtown revitalization, addresses the need for apartments, and provides funding for aging civic buildings. He criticized opponents for not offering realistic alternatives. - Richard Warner (1322 Southwest 9th Terrace) opposed the project, calling it a “totally unnecessary corrupt project” and urged the board not to proceed before the March 2026 public vote. - Stacey Sippel (1239 Westworld Palm Road) gave a historical overview of the past 99 years to argue that long-term predictions are unreliable and that the lease term is too long. - John Perlman (498 Northeast A Street) opposed the project, stating that the developer's proposed regulations would override city codes and that the public will vote it down on March 10, 2026. He accused the board of being a “rubber stamp” for developers. - Martha Parker (64 Northwest 7th Street) presented financial analysis (as a CPA) arguing that the city’s discount rate of 4.5% is inappropriate for a commercial real estate P3 and that using industry-standard rates (7–12%) would drastically reduce the project’s projected value. She concluded the city is being undercompensated. - Michelle Grau (4550 Northwest 23rd Terrace) , also a CPA, provided a reverse analysis showing that even at the city’s low discount rate, the city would receive about $90 million in present value, well below an independent appraisal of $116 million. She called the deal “fiscally irresponsible.” - Michael Menco (330 Northeast 8th Street) questioned the need for another hotel in Boca Raton, citing many existing hotels, and raised safety concerns about a hotel near Memorial Park and the library. - Ed Venezia (46-year resident) expressed strong support, praising the developer for incorporating community feedback and arguing the project will generate over $3 billion in revenue without requiring city debt or tax increases. - Brianna Hanquist (5710A Coteau Circle) opposed the project, expressing concerns about traffic, the loss of Memorial Park, and the relocation of ball fields to Sugar Sand Park. She stated residents overwhelmingly oppose the redevelopment. - Peg Anderson (120 Southeast Fifth Avenue) supported the project, citing her long involvement with downtown advisory committees and arguing the area is in dire need of revitalization and that the project will boost the entire downtown. - Martin Bell (761 Southwest Third Street) opposed, alleging the developer’s proposed project management fee of 3.5% on Memorial Park improvements is inappropriate and that the city has not disclosed comparable land sales. He argued the city could develop the land itself and that the financial shortfall is over $100 million. - Adam Gold (320 Plaza Real) supported the project, arguing that mixed-use development near transit reduces traffic congestion and that existing examples like Mizner Park are successful. He urged the board to support the plan. - Michael O’Krepke (444 West Palmetto Park Road) supported the project “in substantially similar format,” noting that P3s can be successful if financial considerations are properly incorporated. He emphasized the “do nothing” alternative is worse. - Jason Haber (3422 Northwest 51st Place) supported the project, describing it as “ending the autocracy of the streetscape” and bringing life to the urban core, repairing 20th-century planning mistakes. - Eric Lanchette (102 Northeast 2nd Street) supported the project, praising developer Terra Frisbee for professionalism and community engagement, noting the footprint was reduced from 30 to 7.8 acres based on feedback. He argued the project strengthens the tax base and financial resilience. Discussion Items - Staff (Deputy City Manager Andy Lucasek and Development Services Director Brandon Chade) presented the project history, the master partnership agreement, and the lease structure. They emphasized that the board’s role is solely to evaluate the lease from a planning and land-use standpoint—not to review economics, developer selection, or specific development proposals. Future actions include comprehensive plan amendments, zoning updates, a March 2026 referendum, and subsequent site plan approvals. - Staff outlined consistency with the Comprehensive Plan (CBD designation, transit-oriented development policies), the CRA plan (Amended Downtown Plan), and the city’s strategic plan (multiple years of strategic priorities for a vibrant city center and transit-oriented community). - Board members asked clarifying questions. Chairman Sevell noted the narrow scope. Board Member Mitchell acknowledged the financial concerns raised by public speakers but stated those are not within the board’s purview. He and other members emphasized the lease is consistent with adopted plans and policies. Board Member McDermott suggested the City Council consider periodic milestone check-ins over the 99-year lease term. - Board Member Matthews expressed support, calling downtown redevelopment long overdue. The board voted unanimously to approve the recommendation. Key Outcomes - The board approved a motion (made by Mitchell, seconded by an unnamed member) to recommend to the City Council that the conveyance of a 99-year leasehold interest in the 7.8 acres is advisable from a planning and land-use standpoint. The vote was 7–0 in favor. - The recommendation will be forwarded to the City Council for consideration in January 2026, along with the Master Partnership Agreement and related leases. The project is then subject to a citywide referendum in March 2026.

The Boca Raton City Council held a regular meeting on December 16, 2025, starting at 6:00 p.m. The meeting included a consent agenda, quasi-judicial public hearings on the Broken Sound Old Golf Course and Atrium CIMD projects, a presentation on the Government Campus Redevelopment, approval of a conditional use for Exceed Academy, adoption of a reasonable accommodation text amendment, introduction of several ordinances, and a detailed report on potential state property tax reform impacts. Mayor Scott Singer left the meeting after the consent agenda; Deputy Mayor Fran Nachlas presided for the remainder. Consent Calendar - Approved unanimously (4‑0): Resolutions 181‑2025 through 187‑2025, including a revocable license with Lake Rogers Association, funding assistance for the Boca Raton Museum of Art, 2026 State and Federal legislative priorities, wellfield rehabilitation services, and an amendment to the interlocal agreement with Palm Beach County for communications systems. No public comments were received. Public Comments & Testimony Government Campus Redevelopment (Item 10) – Approximately 20 speakers addressed the council. Position summary: - Opposition: Many residents expressed strong opposition, citing a lack of public trust, insufficient financial analysis, concerns about the 99‑year lease, undervaluation of public land, and the perceived slanted ballot language. Speakers noted that the Save Boca initiative gathered over 12,000 signatures and argued that the city should not proceed without a public vote. Several questioned the discount rates used in financial projections and the omission of a recent land sale at 375 East Royal Palm Road ($27 million/acre) from the appraisal. Others criticized the dilapidated condition of existing recreational facilities and argued that the city should maintain them rather than rely on a private developer. - Support: A few residents voiced support for the One Boca plan, emphasizing the need for new police and city facilities, improved softball fields, and the potential economic benefits. One speaker urged the council to continue despite opposition, calling the Save Boca group a “sham.” - Public Requests (Item 14): Additional speakers criticized Ordinance 5766 as a “fake Boca law” that gives the council too much power, and provided detailed analysis showing the lease value may be far below the appraised land value. Broken Sound Old Golf Course / Atrium CIMD (Items 11A & 11B) – Public comment was limited. One speaker questioned the amount of retail space required under the new CIMD ordinance; staff confirmed the project meets minimum requirements. Another speaker asked about wildlife mitigation; the applicant stated the site is not a protected habitat. Exceed Academy (Item 11C) – No public comment. Reasonable Accommodation Ordinance (Item 12) – No public comment. Discussion Items Broken Sound Old Course and Atrium CIMD (Items 11A & 11B) – The council held a combined quasi‑judicial hearing for five interrelated items: (1) deletion of a 0.90‑acre portion of the golf course site, (2) a future land use change from PR to PM, (3) rezoning from REC to LIRP, (4) plat approval for the Atrium project, and (5) site plan amendment for a new 8‑story, 222‑unit multifamily building with 23 affordable and 12 workforce units, plus 2,015 sq ft of retail and a dog park condition. Staff recommended approval. The applicant addressed council questions. Public testimony was minimal. The council voted 4‑0 to approve each item. Exceed Academy (Item 11C) – Resolution 143‑2025 for a conditional use to allow a 3,828 sq ft school in an existing building in the LIRP district. Staff recommended approval; no public comments. Approved 4‑0. Reasonable Accommodation Text Amendment (Item 12) – Ordinance 5761 updates procedures for reasonable accommodation requests to comply with state law. Staff explained the changes are minor. Approved 4‑0. Government Campus Redevelopment (Item 10) – City Manager Sohaney provided a recap of the December 15 workshop and outlined the upcoming timeline: Planning and Zoning Board review on December 18, council introduction on January 6, final consideration on January 20, and voter referendum on March 10. No formal council action was taken on this item; the public comment period was extensive. City Manager Report – Property Tax Reform (Item 17) – Deputy City Manager/CFO Zervis presented an analysis of four state bills (HJR 201, 209, 211, and HGR 201) that would eliminate or reduce homesteaded property taxes for non‑school purposes. The most impactful (HJR 201) could cost the city $58 million annually (22% of general fund revenue). Staff outlined potential mitigation strategies, including increasing millage rates on non‑homesteaded properties, raising fire fees, and cutting services. Council members noted the need to advocate with state legislators and monitor Senate action. Key Outcomes - Vote tallies: All items on the consent agenda, the quasi‑judicial packages (Items 11A/B), Exceed Academy (Item 11C), and the reasonable accommodation ordinance (Item 12) were each approved 4‑0. Mayor Singer was absent for the votes. - Ordinances introduced (Items 15A‑G): Seven ordinances were introduced for first reading – 5762 (Live Local Act updates), 5763‑5764 (C&D debris franchise agreements), 5765 (trespass warnings on city property), 5766 (protection of city‑owned lands), 5767 (freestanding emergency facilities), and 5768 (public and recreational use limitation for city parks). All will be considered for final adoption at a future meeting. - Next steps: The Government Campus redevelopment will be further reviewed at the December 18 Planning and Zoning Board meeting, with council action on January 6 and 20, 2025, and a voter referendum on March 10, 2026. The city will continue to monitor state property tax reform legislation and provide updates.

This workshop meeting of the Boca Raton City Council on December 15, 2025 at 2:30 PM focused on the proposed Government Campus Redevelopment Partnership Opportunity, including presentations from city staff on the regulatory framework, from the Terra Frisbee development group on building design and streetscapes, and from an independent appraiser on property valuation. Public comment addressed the 99-year lease, the Save Boca petition, and developer influence. Council members also discussed broader topics such as property tax reform, annexation, and potential protections for city parks. Public Comments & Testimony - Pam Pashkey (341 SW 2nd St) questioned the inclusion of condominium taxes in the PFM evaluation, expressed opposition to a 99-year lease as too long, and asked about major building improvements over that term. - Mike Liebelson (398 NE 3rd Ct), running for mayor, criticized the council for not putting the Save Boca charter amendment on the ballot, claimed the appraisal undervalued the property (should use discounted cash flow), and pledged to place the amendment on the ballot if elected. - John Perlman (498 NE A St) corrected the mayor on petition signature counts (stating 12,900 submitted), challenged the appraiser’s independence regarding Terra Frisbee, and noted that other Florida cities have referendum protections for public land, arguing the Save Boca laws will prevail in court. - Judy Morrow (1305 NE 5th Ave) raised concerns about the feasibility of a car-free lifestyle, the location of the post office, use of golf course sale proceeds for recreation, the height of proposed buildings, and the 99-year lease term. - James Henry (151 NE Spanish Trail) accused the mayor of insulting the community by dismissing petition signers as uninformed, and argued for citizen control over public land decisions. - Andrew Lavino Rourke (100 SE 5th Ave) spoke on behalf of Workshop 344, praising the developer’s inclusion of their input, and delivered a tribute to the late Keith O’Donnell, a longtime community contributor and visionary. Discussion Items - Regulatory Framework Presentation (Mr. Shad, Staff): Staff outlined amendments to the Downtown Development of Regional Impact (DDRI) development order, including an alternative traffic concurrency standard, reallocation of 320,000 office equivalent (OE) square feet into sub-area A (the government campus site), expansion of the DDRI boundary to include the library, Brightline station, and a nearby block, and a hybrid form-based code focusing on walkability and design. Traffic analysis, mobility plans, and sustainability plans would be required. Councilmember Wigder raised the need for reevaluation of traffic demand management between phases. Councilmember Thompson questioned the expansion of DDRI and its effect on vested traffic concurrency; staff clarified that new development rights would require full impact analysis. - Terra Frisbee Building Design Presentation (Bonnie Miskell, attorney): The group presented a conceptual master plan with seven buildings, ranging from 30 to 130 feet in height, featuring contemporary architecture, a pedestrian-only street (“Via 1.5”), and redesigned streetscapes with wide sidewalks, bike lanes, and angled parking. Councilmember Knackless expressed that the design should “say Boca Raton more” rather than being purely contemporary. Councilmember Drucker requested additional data on the cost implications of changing angled parking to parallel parking and reaffirmed her preference for reduced parking to enhance walkability. - Appraisal Report (Walter Duke & Andrew Rolfe, Walter Duke and Partners): The independent appraiser retained by the city valued the proposed development on 7.7 acres at $113.9 million (office, retail, hotel, residential components), estimated a market ground rent of $5.7 million per year based on 5% of that value, and valued the entire 30.86-acre site as-is at $136.5 million (using comparable sales and $75,000 per residential unit for OE units). Councilmember Wigder asked about including percentage rent in the appraisal; the appraiser agreed that the scope could be expanded to evaluate that option. Councilmember Thompson sought clarification on land value derivation ($68.9 million for the land, based on comparable sales at about $50/sq ft). The appraiser confirmed that the city is the only client and that no work was done with Terra or Frisbee on this assignment. - Review of Regular Agenda Items: No items were identified for review. - Public Requests (General): Additional public comments covered the Save Boca petition, park protections, and a tribute to Keith O’Donnell. - Council Reports and Discussion: Councilmember Wigder proposed amending the mayor’s ordinance to explicitly protect all public parks, similar to the existing Wildflower Ordinance. Councilmember Knackless requested and received from the city attorney a summary of existing legal protections for parks, beaches, and coastal lands. Mayor Singer reported on Florida League of Cities discussions on property tax reform, annexation challenges, and various state bills affecting local government. Key Outcomes - Consensus was reached to have the city attorney and appraiser evaluate the market value impact of percentage rent options and other potential structures for the ground lease, per Councilmember Wigder’s request. - No formal votes were taken; the meeting served as a workshop for information and discussion. - Next steps include further refinement of the regulatory framework and design based on council feedback, and continued appraisal work to include percentage rent evaluation. The project is expected to return for future consideration, with a potential ballot question on March 10, 2026.

The Boca Raton CRA held its regular meeting on December 15, 2025, at 1:00 PM at 6500 N. Congress Avenue. The meeting focused on downtown mobility updates including Boca Connect ridership growth, the East-West connectivity study, autonomous vehicle pilot, and quick-build traffic safety projects. Commissioners also discussed public concerns, parking policies, and future infrastructure priorities. The meeting adjourned at 2:20 PM. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes of the Regular Meetings of November 17, 2025, and December 1, 2025, unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Pam Paschke (341 SW 2nd Street) expressed concern that yellow public hearing signs near the Camino Square property were not placed in a prominent location as required by city ordinance (Section 288). She argued the city failed to post notices on Southwest 3rd Avenue where the property entrance exists. She also requested that future CRA meetings be held within the CRA district rather than at 6500 N. Congress Avenue. City Attorney deferred to development services, noting the ordinance requires visibility from an abutting street but does not define "prominent location." Staff will review signage practices. Director’s Report: Mobility & Infrastructure Updates - Boca Connect Ridership: As of November 2025, total passengers exceeded 3,500, a 6.5x growth since launch in June 2024. Average wait time is 7 minutes 45 seconds. Connection rates during peak demand (4–7 PM) have dipped to 86–87%, below the 95% target. Staff will provide a cost and level-of-service analysis for potential expansion to the barrier island and addition of vehicles. - Autonomous Vehicle (MICA) Pilot: The service operates Thursday–Sunday, 5–8 PM, with five stops. The pilot phase runs through Q1 2026. Goal is to connect Meisner Park and Royal Palm Place. The vehicle is not ADA accessible, but Boca Connect provides ADA-compliant vans. Commissioner Drucker noted partnerships with other AV providers and safety benefits. - East-West Connectivity Study (Brad Davis, Kimley Horn): Phase 1 (idea generation) complete. Stakeholder input included the 344 group (pedestrian bridge over railroad), Palm Beach County (safety improvements on high-injury networks at Palmetto, 2nd, and Camino), and Brightline (no immediate plans for bridge). Three potential grade-separated crossing locations identified: north of 2nd Street, between 2nd and Palmetto, and south of Palmetto. Technical feasibility and cost (range $7M–$100M) under analysis. - Palmetto Park Road Quick Builds: Signal warrant study at First Avenue ongoing. Construction east of Intracoastal delayed due to utilities. In-road crosswalks with automated sensors (RFB) deployed to improve compliance. LIDAR technology being installed to track near-misses and evaluate turning radii. Chair Wigder noted some bollards already damaged; staff will adjust maintenance and evaluate data. - AI Adaptive Traffic Signals: New system installed on Palmetto from 4th Avenue to Meisner (FDOT grant). Initial calibration underway; benefits expected after multiple peak seasons. - Meisner Boulevard Lane Reduction: Staff advised that current US DOT policy disfavors lane elimination projects for grants, but they are monitoring policy shifts. - Speed Management on Palmetto: Commissioner Nachlas requested ways to reduce speeding. Staff will consider speed feedback signs, enforcement review, and potentially lowering speed limits as part of holistic downtown evaluation. Key Outcomes - Staff directed to bring forward a budgetary and level-of-service analysis for Boca Connect expansion to the barrier island and possible vehicle additions. - Staff to share Vision Zero crash data with commissioners for public transparency. - Commissioner Thomson suggested a time-based free parking program (e.g., 29-minute "coffee parking") rather than vehicle-type differentiation for golf carts. Chair Wigder agreed a time-based program is preferable. Commissioner Drucker supported multimodal parking options and asked for a comprehensive review of golf cart ordinances and safety. Commissioner Singer advocated for a resident parking pass (modeled on Miami Beach). The 29-minute free parking pilot on First Avenue remains in effect; data will be collected and reported. - No formal votes were taken on policy items; all discussions were informational. The next workshop meeting was scheduled to begin immediately after adjournment. - Meeting adjourned at 2:20 PM.

The Planning and Zoning Board of the City of Boca Raton met on December 4, 2025, at 6:00 PM. The meeting included the election of officers, approval of prior minutes, and a quasi-judicial public hearing regarding a site plan for a golf maintenance building at the Boca Raton Resort and Club. The board unanimously approved the application. Consent Calendar - The minutes of the Regular Meeting of November 6, 2025, were approved by unanimous vote. Discussion Items - Election of Vice Chair and Secretary: Timothy Dornblaser was elected Vice Chair (motion by Mitchell, second by McDearmid). Gregory Mitchell was elected Secretary (motion by Sevell, second by Dornblaser). Both were approved unanimously. - Site Plan Approval – Boca Raton Golf Maintenance Building: The board considered a resolution for site plan approval (SPA-25-10/PZSPA-2025-00024) for construction of an approximately 19,320 square foot one-story golf maintenance facility at 501 East Camino Real, along with related site improvements and abandonment of a portion of a 12-foot utility easement. Staff recommended approval. The applicant, represented by Christina Belenky of Miskel Backman, LLP, presented the proposal, noting relocation of the facility to a back-of-house area near the employee parking garage, with 28 replacement parking spaces, landscaping, and screening. Board members asked about building footprint (new construction, not expansion), neighbor engagement (support from Meisner Grand community), and drainage (being reviewed through PWR process). No public comments were received. The board voted unanimously to approve the resolution. Key Outcomes - Unanimous Approval: The board approved the site plan and easement abandonment for the Boca Raton Golf Maintenance Building with a 7-0 vote (all members present voted in favor). - Election Results: Timothy Dornblaser elected Vice Chair; Gregory Mitchell elected Secretary. - Next Meeting Preview: Board member Mitchell inquired about the next meeting’s agenda; staff noted a lease agreement for less than eight acres of city-owned downtown land would be considered, and a draft lease would be provided in the agenda package.

The City Council held a regular meeting on December 2, 2025, starting at 6:09 PM and adjourning shortly after 1:00 AM on December 3. The meeting covered board appointments, a consent agenda, a major presentation on the downtown campus public–private partnership (P3), a lengthy public hearing on ballot language for the March 10, 2026 referendum, and a quasi-judicial hearing on the Broken Sound Old Golf Course and Atrium CIMD projects, which was continued. Key actions included approval of board appointments, adoption of the consent agenda, and a 4‑1 vote to adopt Resolution 180‑2025 with amended ballot language. Consent Calendar - Change Orders: Approved change orders for roofing supplies and services (Garland/DBS, Inc., budgeted $2,600,000) and for fire alarm services (WSA SYSTEMS‑BOCA, LLC, budgeted $300,000). - Resolution No. 175‑2025: Authorized an agreement with the Centre for the Arts at Mizner Park, Inc. to support the 2026 Festival of the Arts Boca. - Resolution No. 176‑2025: Authorized a work order with Calvin, Giordano & Associates, Inc. for engineering services for WWTP Odor Control System improvements. - Resolution No. 178‑2025: Authorized a first amendment to a work order with Currie Sowards Aguila Architects, Inc. for a conceptual master plan for softball fields at Sugar Sand Park. - Resolution No. 179‑2025: Authorized agreements with the School District of Palm Beach County to use public schools as polling places for the January 13, 2026 Special Election and March 10, 2026 Regular City Council Election. - Board Minutes Received: Accepted minutes from various boards (Affordable Housing Advisory Committee, Citizens’ Pedestrian and Bikeway Advisory Board, Community Appearance Board, etc.). - All consent items were approved unanimously (5‑0) after public comment. Public Comments & Testimony Public comments focused overwhelmingly on the downtown campus P3 project and the proposed ballot language, with additional comments on the softball field relocation and the court case regarding the Save Boca petition. - Joseph Pujolski (17309 Belboa Point Way) criticized the city’s due diligence on the developer Terra International Developments, questioned the absence of a guarantee in the lease, and claimed the city waived procurement procedures. His remarks were redirected to the consent agenda item on softball fields. - Martin Bell (761 SW 3rd St.) argued that work on softball fields should be deferred until after the March 2026 referendum, stating it circumvents the referendum process. - Michael Masarella (139 NW 3rd St.) thanked the court for the temporary injunction against the Save Boca ballot measures, asserting it protected the city charter and Florida Constitution. - Lorraine Blank (545 NW 7th St.) asked what the city had done to investigate the threat to Banyan trees from the project, stating she had received no response. - Richard Warner (1322 SW 9th Terrace) expressed disgust with the court’s ruling and criticized the city’s financial assumptions and opposition to the project. - Martha Parker (64 NW 7th St.) noted the PFM report was made public only the day before, argued the city has hidden costs, and called for a full cost study including qualitative costs. - Sue White (47 NW Hawthorne Place) questioned the financial returns from the Brightline parking garage and raised concerns about flooding and traffic impacts. - Michael Connor (447 SW 8th Terrace) urged the council to negotiate tougher with the developer, consider alternative plans, and take more time. - Joe Mages (254 NE 5th St.) argued the ballot language and city website present misleading financial figures, stating the project yields a net negative present value and would cost taxpayers more than doing it alone. - Rich Grubel (738 NW 6th St.) questioned the independence of PFM, noting potential future fees, and suggested a jointly selected independent consultant. - Mike Liebelson (398 NE 3rd Ct.) detailed conflicts of interest involving CBRE and a lobbyist, and stated the project’s present value is negative when including the land appraisal. - Pam Pashki (341 SW 2nd St.) pointed out a typo in the PFM report, questioned the inclusion of condo sales, and raised concerns about a parking garage and long‑term costs. - Ivan Zumtobel (840 Oleander St.) called the ballot language a “sales pitch,” argued it omits costs, and accused the council of being compromised by developers. - Steve Zumtobel (840 Oleander St.) asserted the project will cost the city $201 million upfront plus land valued at $116 million for a net present value of only $138 million, calling the economics poor. - John Perlman (498 NE A St.) provided updates on the court case, noting a motion to intervene and a claim of judge shopping. - Michelle Grahl (4550 NW 23rd Terrace) calculated that using the developer’s own numbers, the land would be worth $28.87 million per acre, but argued the developer would never pay that, indicating the project is based on speculative revenue. - Jacob Abraham (540 NE Wave Cris Way) called for a town hall to restore public trust. - Judy Morrow (1305 NE 5th Ave.) asked the council to prohibit political contributions from Terra Frisbee and urged protection of green space and traffic safety. - Meredith Madsen (1193 SW 19th St.) criticized the traffic study conducted in August during school break, demanded a revised study, and warned that overdevelopment poses safety risks. - Eric Lanchette (102 NE 2nd St.) of Rescue Boca Community Initiative supported the court’s injunction against Save Boca, stating the measures are unconstitutional and that the loudest voices do not represent the majority. - Vic Rose (285 NW 9th St.) defended the project, accused Save Boca of spreading fear, and noted that AI supports smart city P3s. Discussion Items Government Campus Redevelopment Partnership Opportunity (Item 10A) - Staff Presentation: Deputy City Manager and CFO Jim Zervis introduced PFM’s independent fiscal analysis. PFM’s Kevin Plensler and Mallory Richards presented scenario 4, which projects a net present value of $138 million in net fiscal impact over 99 years, supporting about $114 million in project proceeds for public improvements. The analysis excludes percentage rent and transfer fees due to uncertainty. PFM confirmed the developer’s internal rate of return is approximately 20 %, within normal range for such projects, with no public subsidy of private profit. - Council Discussion: Council members asked about discount rate (5 % vs. 4.5 %), the exclusion of speculative revenues, and the funding gap for public improvements ($87 million). Mr. Zervis noted the city has other funding sources (CRA bonding capacity, golf course sale proceeds) that could close the gap without raising taxes. - The council discussed the proposed ballot language for the March 2026 referendum (Resolution 180‑2025). Councilmember Thompson proposed neutral language, arguing the original language was slanted in favor of the project. After extensive debate and multiple amendment attempts, the council voted 4‑1 to adopt Resolution 180‑2025 with amended language as displayed on the screen at the meeting (with the title “Approving lease of downtown city land, agreements for public improvements and preserving enhancing memorial park” and a summary beginning “Shall the city approve agreements with Boca Raton City Center LLC leasing 7.8 acres of city property east of Northwest 2nd Avenue near Bright Line Station for 99 years, creating a walkable neighborhood with residential and commercial uses, generating estimated rent and revenues to the city, funding associated costs for enhancements including preserving memorial park area honoring veterans, expanding public recreational and green spaces, new community center, city hall, and police substation.”). Councilmember Thompson voted no. Quasi-Judicial Hearing: Broken Sound Old Course and Atrium CIMD (Item 11) - The council intended to hear a combined quasi-judicial hearing on interrelated items (Resolution 177‑2025, Ordinance 5759, 5760, Resolution 172‑2025, 173‑2025). Councilmember Drucker requested a deferral, stating she lacked sufficient information received only minutes before the meeting. After discussion, the council voted to continue the matter to the December 16, 2025 meeting. Key Outcomes - Board Appointments: Approved appointment of Mr. Matthews (longer term) and Mr. Mirabelli to the Planning and Zoning Board. - Consent Agenda: Approved unanimously (5‑0). - Resolution 180‑2025 (Ballot Language): Adopted 4‑1 (Thompson opposed) with amended ballot language as described above, directing staff to transmit the question to the Supervisor of Elections for the March 10, 2026 ballot as the second question after the police headquarters bond referendum. - Quasi-Judicial Hearings: Continued to December 16, 2025. - Executive Session Authorization: Approved unanimously (5‑0) to allow the city attorney to schedule executive sessions regarding the Kimmelman lawsuit. - Introduction of Ordinance 5761: Introduced on first reading; it updates reasonable accommodation procedures for individuals with disabilities and certified recovery residences. - Future Agenda: Mayor Singer indicated he will introduce an ordinance next meeting requiring a more thorough process for any sale or lease of city land over half an acre, including a sign on the property.

The Boca Raton City Council held a workshop meeting on Monday, December 1, 2025, beginning at 2:14 PM and adjourning at 3:45 PM. The meeting focused on board interviews for the Planning and Zoning Board, a detailed independent financial analysis of the Government Campus Redevelopment Partnership Opportunity by PFM Group Consulting LLC, and public comments on the project and related election matters. No consent calendar items were considered. Board Interviews - The Council interviewed four applicants for the Planning and Zoning Board: Les Matthews, Harry Miraboli, Michael Brenner, and Charles Graves. Each applicant presented their professional background, community involvement, and reasons for wanting to serve. Appointments will be made at the following regular meeting (December 2, 2025). No applicants were present for other boards (Affordable Housing Advisory Committee, Community Advisory Panel, Marine Advisory Board, Sustainability Advisory Board). Public Comments & Testimony - On the Government Campus Project: - John Perlman (498 NE A Street) criticized the PFM analysis, arguing the deal results in a negative net present value when including capital costs, and questioned the fiduciary duty of city consultants. He also expressed concern that the city may accept an appraisal from the developer without independent review. - Michelle Grau (4550 NW 23rd Terrace), a CPA, argued that the deal’s terms favor the developer, citing base rent only 35% of projected revenue, a 75% fair market floor as a concession, and risk from potential property tax structure changes. She asserted that the city could achieve better returns by issuing municipal bonds alone. - Judy Morrill (1305 NE Fifth Avenue) questioned the three-to-four-generation projection horizon, calling 99-year agreements unpredictable. She also referenced the public park petition process. - Joe Majors (254 NE Fifth Street) requested the Walter Duke appraisal immediately, criticized the ballot language for not accounting for the construction cost funding gap, and claimed a breach of fiduciary duty. - An additional speaker (unidentified) characterized the assumptions as “twisted to benefit the city” and called the project “insane.” - On the Safe Boca Petition and Election: - John Perlman presented slides stating the city did not defend the petition signatures in court, that the city can run its own election independent of the Supervisor of Elections, and urged the city to hold a special election within 90 days. - Councilmember Drucker and City Attorney Kohler responded, clarifying that the court ruled the petition language unconstitutional regardless of timing, and that the city relies on the Supervisor of Elections for all elections. Discussion Items - Government Campus Partnership Opportunity (Item 5A): Deputy City Manager Jim Service introduced PFM’s independent financial report. Kevin Plensler and Mallory Richards (PFM) presented: - Economic impact analysis (construction and ongoing operations) and fiscal impact analysis (revenues and expenditures for the city). - Scenario 4 (current plan) projected a net fiscal benefit of $8.5 million in year 10, with a 99-year net present value of $138.1 million (using a 5% discount rate). - Construction costs for public improvements (city hall, community center, police substation, parking, parks) estimated at $201 million. - Bond financing capacity from project revenues was roughly $114 million, leaving a funding gap of about $87 million. Options to cover the gap include using CRA bond capacity ($170M), proceeds from the golf course sale ($34.8M designated for recreation), and CRA cash reserves ($49.5M). - PFM excluded transfer fees and upside profit sharing from their revenue projections as too uncertain, and included operational expenditures (fire, police, parks) which had not been in earlier CBRE projections. - Council members asked questions about discount rate (5%, conservative), treatment of CRA termination in 2042-2043, cost estimate basis, and the conservative approach to ground rent. - Councilmember Proposal on Land Disposition: Councilmember (unspecified) introduced a draft ordinance requiring multiple public hearings and written findings for any sale or lease of city-owned land greater than half an acre, to address concerns raised by the failed charter amendment. The item will be discussed further at the next meeting. Key Outcomes - Board interviews for Planning and Zoning Board concluded; appointments will be made December 2, 2025. - The Government Campus project will be further debated at the city council meeting on December 2, 2025, with the ballot question still under consideration. - A new ordinance regarding disposition of city land was proposed for future discussion; no vote taken. - The Council affirmed that the court ruling on the Safe Boca petition found the language unconstitutional, independent of election timing, and that the city followed its charter in scheduling the election.

The Boca Raton Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) held a regular meeting on Monday, December 1, 2025, starting at 1:31 PM and adjourning at 2:06 PM. No votes or action items were taken. The meeting included public comments on the proposed government campus project and public-private partnerships, a Director's report on future CRA agenda topics, and commissioner reports addressing transit, parking, noise, and small business concerns. Public Comments & Testimony - John Pearlman (address given) urged attendees to watch the "Save Boca" movie and expressed concerns about Brightline's financial health, citing a Bloomberg report that Brightline bonds traded as low as 29.5 cents on the dollar, a 70% loss. He argued that the government campus project relies on Brightline as the "centerpiece to mobility" and a transit-oriented community, but Brightline may not remain viable. - Michelle Grau (4550 NW 23rd Terrace) questioned when public-private partnerships (P3s) are truly necessary. She argued that a P3 is not needed when the city can borrow at low municipal bond rates (4–5%) versus private financing at 8–12%, nor for basic community facilities, nor when public land contributed is more valuable than the developer's investment. She pleaded with the CRA not to enter a P3 for the current project. - Richard Warner (1322 SW 9th Terrace) expressed support for the Dixie Manor rehabilitation but hoped it would produce genuine affordable housing. He criticized the Camino project and the government campus, comparing the CRA's approach to a coach who leaves for money. He warned that such projects could become "slums of tomorrow." Discussion Items - Director's Report (Deputy City Manager Kamehold): Presented a schedule of future CRA agenda topics: - December 15: Update on East-West connectivity options (at-grade and elevated) from Kinley Horn. - January 5: Overview of CRA capital improvement projects, with possible modifications depending on the government center project outcome. - January 20: Reserved for government center project elements. - February 9: Discussion on autonomous shuttle (Boca Connect) and its integration with East-West connectivity. - February 23: Meisner Park maintenance, including a desire to restore original color schemes (e.g., Royal Blue on gazebos). - March 23: Update on land development regulations after the expiration of development rights under 4035. - Commissioner Comments: - Mayor Singer: Suggested deferring some topics (maintenance, autonomous shuttle) until action is needed; preferred staff handle maintenance without council votes. Supported updates on East-West connectivity if meaningful. - Commissioner Drucker: Emphasized need for East-West connectivity update and autonomous shuttle expansion (to Royal Palm and midtown/BRIC area). Mentioned AI traffic signal optimization as a potential benefit for CRA intersections. - Commissioner Nachlas: Raised concerns about safety, speeding, and noise in the downtown, suggesting these be addressed in future meetings. - Commissioner Drucker (also noted): Discussed small business owners facing code enforcement violations for live music; asked for a policy review. Also highlighted parking confusion for visitors (free 29 minutes vs. pay periods). - Chair Wigder: Echoed parking concerns and suggested reviewing parking enforcement timing. Praised the holiday tree lighting event (over 12,000 attendees) and the unveiling of amphitheater doors. - Vice Chair Thomson: No report. Key Outcomes - No motions, votes, or formal decisions were made. The meeting served as a forum for public comment and commissioner discussion on future agenda items and ongoing CRA matters. - The next CRA meeting is scheduled for December 15, 2025.