Public Meetings - Boca Raton, Florida

The October 14, 2025 workshop of the Boca Raton City Council focused on the proposed government campus redevelopment partnership with Terra Frisbee (one BOCA), the status of the Save Boca charter amendment petition, and public concerns over parkland, trees, and wildlife. The council heard from the developer, city staff, and over 20 public speakers, and addressed financial clarifications, environmental surveys, and next steps. Public Comments & Testimony - John Pearlman (Save Boca) reported that 7,700 certified signatures were submitted for a charter amendment to protect public land. He criticized the city for spending $267,000 on consultants for a project he called a "failed plan." - Ellie Gascoigne and Emily Gascoigne (students) opposed the project, citing destruction of softball fields, gopher tortoise habitat, and Memorial Park. They urged the council to stop the plan. - Bob Tucker expressed support for the one BOCA mailer and said the project could bring long-term value, urging opponents to consider compromise. - Martha Parker called for more transparency in the public-private partnership (P3) terms, including financial disclosures and a campaign contribution prohibition. - Brianna Hayquist (Coach Houses community) said the city failed to reach out to nearby residents. She claimed to have found three live gopher tortoises with burrows in the Sugar Sand Park area, contradicting a city survey. - Mike Liebelson questioned the financial viability of the deal, estimating the land lease value at $500 million versus $100 million in tax benefits, and asked about Terra's litigation history. - Mac Johnson told a story about a fictitious city to illustrate the loss of public parks to private development. - Michelle Grau (CPA) said the city lacks independent verification of economic impact claims and warned of hidden liabilities. - Pam Paci questioned the city's distribution of parks relative to population and opposed high-density housing on public land. - Joe Mages argued the city has $677 million in reserves and could build facilities itself without a private partner. - Martin Bell said the opposition is not fear of change but fear of giving away control of public land, and asked the council to defer decisions on Sugar Sand Park until after the March 2026 referendum. - Diane Borghard (former city environmental planner) stated that the northwest sector of Sugar Sand Park was environmentally sensitive and that gopher tortoises were present there. - Scott Prey said he personally relocated gopher tortoises to the park within the last year and challenged the city's survey findings. - Judy Morrow (former teacher) criticized the one BOCA mailer as misleading—omitting 740 apartments and retail—and asked to preserve the tennis courts at Memorial Park. - Lisa Mahal requested that the city restore the campaign contribution ban in the Terra Frisbee contract and noted that her public records request for nonprofit leases was not properly fulfilled. - Jonathan Unj supported moving forward with the scaled-down plan, saying the current parking lots are underutilized and that the city should work with the developer to create a better outcome. - Buffy Tucker said the process was done backwards—citizens should have voted on public land use first—and that the adversarial tone stems from mistrust of the council. - Zachary Plotkin asked the mayor to commit to not attending the Rotary Club Mayor's Ball (sponsored by Terra Frisbee) until after the referendum; the mayor responded that he would attend as a private ticket purchaser. - Ivan Zumtobel (journalist) called the one BOCA mailer unethical and misleading, and said the city website should link to both sides of the issue. - Shannon Otto urged the council to use taxpayer money wisely and to keep Memorial Park as green space. - Richard Warner said the project is unnecessary and will only add heat and congestion; he asked the council to consider whether the change is truly beneficial. Discussion Items - Developer Presentation (Rob Frisbee, one BOCA): Frisbee announced a scaled-down plan: private development would be limited to approximately 7 acres on the east side of 2nd Avenue, built on existing surface parking lots and defunct buildings. The west side would remain as a world-class Memorial Park, with all banyan trees preserved and green space increased. He reported two community open houses (Sept 29 and Oct 6) with over 200 attendees, and a third scheduled for Oct 22 at Spanish River Library. He said a revised proposal will be presented at the Oct 27 workshop and Oct 28 council meeting. - City Staff Clarifications: - City Manager Sohaney corrected misinformation about the police department site (19 acres, 80% pre-developed, not an urban forest) and Sugar Sand Park (47 acres of conservation area are protected; no active gopher tortoise burrows found in the proposed softball complex area). - CFO Jim Zervis clarified the city’s financial position: as of Sept 30, 2024, total cash across 22 funds was $601.8 million, not $677 million. The general fund had $96.2 million, of which $25 million is for hurricane reserves and $25 million for fiscal emergencies. Annual revenue is $456.5 million, not $500 million. He explained that the $80 million transit-oriented community project in the CIP is a planning document with no spending authority yet; only $24 million is budgeted for this fiscal year, and no money has been spent. An independent fiscal analysis by PFM (consultant) is underway and will be made public when the project scope is finalized. - City Attorney Kaler stated that Terra Frisbee complied with all legal requirements in the RFP process, including disclosure of litigation history, and that the council has full discretion to continue with the project. - Council Discussion on Recreation Relocation: Councilmember Thompson proposed pausing all preliminary work on moving recreation (e.g., softball fields) to Sugar Sand Park until after the March 2026 referendum. He argued that the city should not be doing surveys or site work before voters decide. Other council members (Wigder, Naklicki, Drucker, Mayor Singer) disagreed, stating that preliminary surveys are necessary to gather facts, inform the public, and comply with the interlocal agreement with the Beach and Park District. The consensus was to continue non-invasive surveys and environmental assessments, but not to proceed with any construction until after the referendum. - Councilmember Wigder presented photos of King Tide flooding at Wildflower Park and the boat ramp, and suggested the city conduct a seawall survey. He also showed the police station site (currently a staging area with existing roads and parking) to counter claims that it is an urban forest. Key Outcomes - No vote was taken on the interim agreement extension with Terra Frisbee; the council will hear a revised proposal at the Oct 27 workshop and Oct 28 meeting. - The city attorney confirmed that the Save Boca charter amendment and identical ordinance will be presented to the council at the Oct 28 meeting, with the charter amendment to appear on the March 10, 2026 ballot per the Supervisor of Elections. - The council will proceed with environmental surveys and tree assessments at Sugar Sand Park and the police station site, but will not undertake any physical construction or relocation of recreation until after the March 2026 vote. - Staff will obtain a commercial market value appraisal of the land parcels involved in the proposed development (both the full 31 acres and the smaller 7-acre footprint). - The city reiterated its commitment to tree preservation and replacement, noting that 8,000 trees were planted last year and that policy will continue regardless of the project outcome. - The council agreed to improve communication with affected neighborhoods, particularly the Coach Houses community near Sugar Sand Park.

The Boca Raton Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) held a regular meeting on October 14, 2025, at 10:02 AM. The primary agenda item was a quasi-judicial public hearing for an amendment to the Camino Square Phase 2 Individual Development Approval (IDA), which would replace previously approved retail with 394 residential units and reduced retail. After hearing public testimony and deliberating, the board voted to postpone the item to allow for further design discussions and a revised traffic study. Consent Calendar - Unanimously approved the minutes of the regular meeting of September 22, 2025. Public Comments & Testimony - Dr. Brian Kritchman (155 East Boca Raton Road) raised concerns about structural issues at a nearby building (Tower 155) and asked for a halt to projects with the same architect/developer, as well as an external investigation of city building inspections. Chair Wigder directed comments to the current project. - John Perlman (498 Northeast Eighth Street, founder of Save Boca) opposed the project, arguing that the developer had promised commercial space in Phase 1 and was now reducing it by over 75%. He also criticized ex-parte communications. - Les Wilson (649 Southwest 14th Street) expressed concerns about pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure between the site and retail across Camino Real, noting a narrow six-foot sidewalk and unsafe crossing conditions. - Mike Liebelson (398 Northeast Third Court) questioned the extent of ex-parte negotiations and asked whether the city had an independent traffic consultant. - Martha Parker (64 Northwest 7th Street) argued the retail reduction undermines walkability for surrounding single-family neighborhoods and noted East Boca already lacks retail. - Pam Pashki (341 Southwest 2nd Street) objected to the eight-story building heights on Third Avenue, traffic impacts, and the inadequacy of proposed pocket parks. - Betsy Nieporte (404 Southwest 7th Terrace) raised concerns about traffic on Third Avenue, stating it is already dangerous and the pocket park attracts homeless individuals. - Richard Warner (1322 Southwest 9th Terrace) said Phase 1 was terrible and Phase 2 is worse, urging the board to reject the project and preserve the original shopping center. - Maria Blair (1072 9th Terrace) said Camino Real has become a freeway, making walking/biking dangerous. - Judy Morrow (1305 Northeast Fifth Avenue) expressed nostalgia for Kmart and wished the city would return to a four-story height limit. Discussion Items - Staff Presentation: Susan Lesser (Senior Planner) and Brian Shad (Development Services Director) outlined the request: 394 residential units, 8,632 sq ft of retail (with a technical deviation to reduce driveway width by one foot), abandonment of two utility easements, and a transfer of 60,255 sq ft of office equivalent development from Subarea D to Subarea G. Staff noted the project reduces traffic by 1,153 daily trips compared to the approved plan and recommended approval. The Community Appearance Board (5-0) and Planning & Zoning Board (5-1) had both recommended approval. - Applicant Presentation: Ellie Zacharitis (attorney for FCI and Kimco) argued that retail at the site is not viable due to lack of visibility and inability to secure an anchor tenant. She noted that Phase 1 invested over $3 million in off-site traffic improvements. The applicant offered to convert eight ground-floor residential units to 8,300 sq ft of additional retail (totaling about 17,000 sq ft of retail plus 3,000 sq ft of office) and pledged 5% workforce housing in Phase 2 voluntarily. The applicant stated the project meets all code requirements. - Commissioner Questions and Concerns: - Chair Wigder voiced significant concerns: the amount of retail remains too low (even with the offered increase), the design lacks integration with the street, the OE transfer seems inappropriate for Subarea G, and the traffic data should be independently reviewed. He noted a personal observation of a dangerous driving incident at the intersection. - Commissioner Drucker agreed with the retail concerns and wanted to see Les Wilson’s pedestrian safety video and more data on intersection accidents. - Commissioner Nachlas questioned whether the project meets the downtown vision (Ordinance 5581) and noted the retail reduction remains about 55-56% of what was approved. She also welcomed the workforce housing offer but felt it came late. - Commissioner Thomson highlighted Phase 1’s positive impact in eliminating blight and sober homes, and supported working further with the applicant. - Mayor Singer appreciated the applicant’s willingness to add retail but wanted more clarity on how it would be integrated to create a compelling reason to visit. He noted the applicant’s good faith in past traffic improvements. Key Outcomes - Motion to Postpone: Commissioner Wigder moved to postpone the matter indefinitely, with the proviso that the applicant meet with staff within 30 days to present revised plans addressing the board’s concerns. Commissioner Drucker seconded. The motion passed unanimously (5-0). The CRA will receive a status update at the November 17, 2025 meeting. If no substantive progress is made, the application may be considered withdrawn and would require a new filing. - Next Steps: The applicant is to work with staff and bring forward a plan with additional commercial/retail space, possibly with modified unit mix and improved street activation. A revised traffic study and any additional data on pedestrian/bike safety will also be reviewed. Note: Public comments on the downtown campus were deferred to the subsequent workshop meeting.

The Boca Raton City Council held a regular meeting on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, from 4:04 PM to 5:01 PM. The council approved the consent agenda (with one item removed), adopted a resolution extending the downtown campus interim agreement, introduced an ordinance regarding affordable housing regulations, and heard public comments on the downtown project and other matters. Consent Calendar - Approved the consent agenda as amended, removing Item 9G (Resolution No. 156-2025 recommending BioStem Technologies, Inc. for incentives) at the request of the applicant for further review. The remaining items were approved unanimously (5-0). Items included: intergovernmental purchases for electrical MRO supplies and vehicles; sole source software renewals for public safety and administrative systems; resolutions for professional engineering services, recreational program providers, legal services extension, election announcement, architectural design services, and a grant for a National Battle of the Bands event; and board appointments to the Executive Employees’ Retirement Plan. Public Comments & Testimony - Downtown Campus Project (Resolution 155-2025): Several residents spoke during the public hearing on the resolution to extend the interim agreement with Terra/Frisbie. - John Perlman (498 NE A St.) expressed skepticism about the project, requesting that the extension include prohibitions on campaign contributions, require disclosure of Terra’s litigation history (specifically the Surfside lawsuit), and allow several months for public review of studies before a vote. He also questioned why the council would still vote on the project if it is going to a referendum. - Joe Majors (254 NE 5th St.) echoed concerns, arguing that the project is “a square peg in a round hole” and that the city should fund the campus itself rather than use a private developer. He noted that traffic is already congested downtown. - Pam Pashki (341 SW 2nd St.) warned of public anger over public land deals, citing a recent Miami-Dade controversy. - Brianna Hanquist (5710A Coach House Circle) opposed the Sugar Sand Park surveys, alleging destruction of urban forest and wildlife habitat, and requested a halt to preliminary work pending the referendum. - Jonathan Unjin (6501 Congress Ave.) supported the developer’s revised plan (preserving the park and building only on the east side) and urged the community to work with the developer to improve the plan. - Richard Warner (1322 SW 9th Terrace) expressed distrust of the ballot language and the city’s promotion of the project, arguing that the city should be neutral. He advocated for terminating the partnership. - Public Requests: After the resolution vote, additional public comments were made. - Jonathan Unjin urged the city to expedite the referendum to restore trust, noting that the county’s claim that the next available election is March 2026 is upsetting. - John Perlman alleged that the city violated state law by advertising the One Boca project on its website and via Facebook ads after agreeing to put the project to a vote. He requested the city attorney respond in writing and asked that the city also promote SaveBoca.org to balance the messaging. - Richard Warner reiterated that the city’s promotional efforts are adversarial and alienating residents, and called for a complete halt to all work on the project until the vote. Discussion Items - Resolution 155-2025 – Extension of Interim Agreement with Terra/Frisbie: The council considered a resolution to extend the interim agreement for the Downtown Campus Redevelopment Project from October 31, 2025, to May 1, 2026, to allow for a referendum at the March 10, 2026, election. City Manager Lucasic explained that the extension is needed because the project timeline has shifted due to public feedback and evolving plans. The resolution does not change any other terms or create new obligations. City Attorney Kaler confirmed that ballot language must be submitted to the Supervisor of Elections by December 5, 2025, and depends on the final plan. The council heard public comments (see above). - Councilmember Thompson reiterated his opposition to the plan but supported the extension as a way to ensure transparency and a public vote. He again called for terminating the project entirely, but received no support. Mayor Singer and others argued that terminating would lead to stagnation and that the extension allows for continued public input and due diligence. - The council voted 5-0 to adopt the resolution. - Introduction of Ordinance 5753: The council introduced an ordinance amending Chapter 28 (Zoning) to allow a combination of on-site and off-site non-residential uses to satisfy the CIMD requirement for including office, restaurant, or retail within 1/4 mile of the development, and to correct a scrivener’s error. No public comment was taken on introduction. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda Approved (5-0) with Item 9G removed. - Resolution 155-2025 Adopted (5-0): Extends the interim agreement with Terra/Frisbie to May 1, 2026, to allow a referendum on the downtown campus project. - Ordinance 5753 Introduced for future consideration. - Public Requests: The mayor clarified that the city has not spent taxpayer money on social media advertising for One Boca. City Attorney Kaler explained that the city is bound by the Palm Beach County Supervisor of Elections schedule; the next available election is March 10, 2026, because the December 9, 2025, special election ballot was already locked when the charter amendment was certified on October 2, 2025. - Council Reports: Councilmember Drucker reminded residents of Brightline schedule expansions and Florida League of Cities legislative activities. Deputy Mayor Nachlas noted upcoming League of Cities committees on CRAs, ADUs, and the Live Local Act. No other reports were made.

The City Council held a final budget hearing on Thursday, September 25, 2025 at 6:00 p.m. to adopt millage rates and the FY 2025/26 budget, approve capital improvement program, and consider council-proposed amendments. The meeting opened with the Pledge of Allegiance and roll call (all five members present). Staff presented rebudgeting from FY 2024–25 and recommended amendments. The public had opportunity to comment. Council voted unanimously (5-0) on all three items after discussion and minor adjustments. Consent Calendar - None separately identified; the rebudgeting items (exhibits 1–3) were presented as staff recommendations and later included in the budget ordnances. Public Comments & Testimony - John Perlman (address provided): Expressed concern that the budget includes costs related to the Government Campus Redevelopment project, which he argued should not be funded until voters approve in March 2026. He also alleged $400 million excess in utility and public works spending and requested transparency on all line items. He made formal public records requests. - Don Huber (resident 30+ years): Urged council to reduce expenses, citing personal cost pressures. He praised national cost-cutting efforts and asked what the city has done to reduce costs. He later heard staff response about a $2 million operating budget decrease. Discussion Items - Rebudgeting of FY 2024-25 Appropriations (Exhibits 1-3): - Staff (Jim Zervis, CFO and Deputy City Mgr; Mike Middleman, Sr. Budget Analyst) presented four exhibits: - Exhibit 1: Amendments affecting fund balance (e.g., Tree Legacy Program +$135,000; retirement sustainability fund +$490,500; Spanish River Maintenance Facility reduction -$130,000 from Capital Improvement Fund and -$70,000 from Beach & Park District). Total: $425,500. - Exhibit 2: Operating rebudgets (no fund balance impact) totaling $4,742,300, including CDBG, SHIP, centennial activities, etc. - Exhibit 3: CIP rebudgets (capital projects pushed forward) totaling $48,679,200 across various funds (water/sewer $33.8M, IT $3.2M, etc.). These were staff-recommended. - Exhibit 4: Council-proposed amendents (not staff-recommended) for deliberation. - Council questions: Councilmember Wigder queried about $3.2 million SHIP carryover; staff explained timing of affordable housing assistance. - Public Hearing on Millage and Budget: Mayor opened hearing; clerk read ordinances. Public comments (see above). Staff responded: Millerate is decreasing (8th year), city has lowest full-service tax rate in Florida. Chief Financial Officer Zervis noted $9.5 million in operating cuts achieved to reduce tax burden; net operating expenses decreased $2 million. No funds budgeted for Government Campus project because no final development agreement exists. Mr. Brown (City Manager) addressed tree survey at Sugar Sand Park as informational, not removal. - Council Amendments (Exhibit 4): - Deputy Mayor Nachlas proposed $200,000 for two attendants at Silver Palm boat ramp to address illegal charter activity. Discussion ensued; staff recommended first gathering data and enforcing existing code. Council agreed to study (no amendment adopted now). - Councilmember Wigder proposed several items: 1. Public safety: police department consultant on workplace culture/recruiting – staff said funding exists in budget. 2. Fire truck specialist technician salary gaps – staff said upcoming compensation study will address, no need for budget amendment now. 3. AI initiatives and virtual inspections – staff reported already testing AI in public works and doing some virtual inspections; no additional funding needed; no reduction of building inspectors or code compliance officers accepted. 4. Parks master plan outreach – funding already available. 5. Comprehensive plan research consultant – staff noted ongoing work but larger policy discussion for strategic planning. 6. New positions: special events permit (approved) and SHIP housing planner (succession planning). Council generally supportive. 7. Economic development: fee relief for local businesses – staff said existing economic development funds could be used. After debate, no position reductions were adopted; staff will continue operational improvements. - Nonprofit Funding: Mayor noted process review needed. By consensus, council agreed to allocate $1,000 each to eight organizations (including Bobcat Robotics, Garden Club, Greening Corp, Edwith Tech, Generation Hope, National Society for Arts & Letters, Showering Love, Warrior Golf Academy) and reduce overall nonprofit funding by $9,000 from prior year. Key Outomes - Ordinance 5751 (final millage rates): Adopted 5-0. Total millage rate: 3.6649 mills (3.6476 operational + 0.0173 debt service). Percentage over rolled-back rate: 4.42%. - Ordinance 5752 (final budget appropriations for FY 2025-2026): Adopted 5-0 with adjustments: included exhibits 1-3 (rebudgeting) and nonprofit allocations as discussed (net -$9,000). No further amendments. - Resoution 142-2025 (Capital Improvements Program FY 2025/26-2030/31): Adopted 5-0, incorporating CIP rebudgets from exhibit 3. - Directives: Staff to study Silver Palm boat ramp issues and report back; continue with compensation study; provide detail on SHIP carryover; enforce existing code against commercial charters. - Next Steps: Budget becomes effective October 1, 2025. Mayor thanked staff and outgoing City Manager George Brown for nearly 50 years of service; presented key to the city. Meeting adjourned at 7:29 p.m.

The City Council held a workshop on September 22, 2025, beginning at 10:50 AM (agenda time 11:00 AM). The meeting covered a proclamation for Hispanic Heritage Month, a major presentation and public comment on the proposed Government Campus Redevelopment Partnership with Terra Frisbee, and a detailed presentation on a public safety bond referendum for a new police headquarters. Council also discussed the 2026 meeting schedule and addressed numerous public comments on both items. Proclamations/Presentations - Hispanic Heritage Month Proclamation: Mayor Singer recognized community leaders including Dr. Neilis Luna (FAU dean), Clara Bennett (Boca Raton Airport Authority), Douglas Heiser (Boca Raton Tribune), and a representative from Hispanic Entrepreneurship Initiative. Councilmember Drucker, a first-generation Cuban American, spoke about the importance of the month. The proclamation was read and adopted. Public Comments & Testimony - Government Campus Redevelopment: A large majority of speakers expressed opposition to the plan, raising concerns about loss of green space, traffic, preservation of Memorial Park (a World War II memorial), and the privatization of public land. Key points: - John Perlman (Save Boca) stated that over 5,000 signatures were submitted for a citizen initiative to protect public land and criticized the city for not certifying the petition within the charter-required 20 days (city clerk noted the process was underway with the supervisor of elections). - Michael Liebelson questioned the financial projections, alleging that transferring 31 acres to a private developer for 99 years at a net present value of $228 million (as presented) would be a bad deal, and noted a pending billion-dollar litigation against Terra regarding the Surfside collapse (city attorney said disclosures are governed by state law). - Martha Parker expressed frustration over the loss of green space from a prior 2020 agreement and called planned green space numbers misleading. - Ellie Gascoigne (student) argued the park is the actual World War II memorial and that developing it dishonors veterans; she urged the council to scrap the plan. - Ken Harrington raised traffic concerns in Meadows Park and its single access road. - Several speakers (Darlene Ward, Michelle Grow, Joe Magis) called for the city to fund improvements itself rather than partner with a developer. - A few speakers (Nancy Joe Feinberg, one unnamed) supported the plan, citing the need for facility upgrades and the developer's willingness to listen. - Public Safety Bond: No public comments were taken during the workshop; the item was presented for discussion only. Discussion Items - Government Campus Redevelopment Partnership Opportunity: - Terra Frisbee presented a revised master plan reducing residential density from 850 to 740 units, office space reduced, hotel removed, and retail scaled back. Changes included preserving all banyan trees, removing a residential building west of 2nd Avenue, adding a multipurpose field, eight tennis courts (with two potentially covered), a new memorial/monument, children's playground, reopening the Children's Museum (relocating historic Singing Pines building), and a new city hall with a mobility hub. The developer stated the plan now creates more usable green space (8 acres vs. 7.5 existing) and over 99 years would generate $2 billion in total revenues ($228 million net present value). - Council discussion: Councilmembers raised questions about the number of tennis courts, the Singing Pines building, the Rickards House (non-historic), and the need for a recreation master plan. Councilmember Wigder suggested combining city hall and community center, using city-owned workforce housing, and called for more community input before finalizing plans. Mayor Singer clarified that the city would retain fee simple ownership of all public spaces and buildings; only the private development parcels would be leased. Council agreed to continue public outreach with two upcoming charrettes (Sept 29 at Meisner Park, Oct 6 at 6500 Building) and slow down the process. No vote was taken on the campus plan. - Council confirmed that the public would have the final say via a referendum on the downtown campus project. - Public Safety Bond Referendum: - CFO Jim Zervas presented a 25-year history of the need for a new police headquarters, currently housed in a 39-year-old, 35,000 sq ft facility that is undersized, non-hurricane-rated, and non-conforming. The proposed site is at Spanish River Boulevard (city-owned), central to the city's geographic growth. The project would build a 153,000 sq ft facility (expandable to 163,000 sq ft in a shell) at an estimated cost of $190.2 million (including contingencies and escalation). - Financing: Staff recommended a $175 million general obligation bond with a $15.2 million general fund contribution, keeping the city's AAA bond rating intact. The Financial Advisory Board (FAB) recommended a $125 million bond with $65 million cash (split vote 4-3; dissenting members wanted a higher bond amount). The difference for an average homeowner would be about $35.34 per year. - Council discussion: Councilmember Wigder, Drucker, and others supported the staff recommendation, citing the need to maintain reserve funds for other purposes. They also noted that even with a $175 million bond, the city's millage rate would remain below comparable cities. The police chief confirmed that patrol services would not be affected by moving the headquarters to a more central location; a 10,000 sq ft substation would remain downtown. - Council indicated support for placing the $175 million bond referendum on the March 10, 2026 ballot. - 2026 City Council Meeting Schedule: Council approved the schedule as presented, with meetings on January 6 and January 20 (both starting at 10:00 AM) to be consistent with CRA meetings. Key Outcomes - Government Campus Redevelopment: Council agreed to continue community engagement through two public charrettes (Sept 29 and Oct 6) and to finalize a plan that will ultimately be subject to a public referendum. No formal decisions were made; further discussions on tennis court numbers, Singing Pines relocation, and other details will occur after community input. - Public Safety Bond Referendum: Council stated intent to approve a resolution later that day to place a $175 million general obligation bond question on the March 10, 2026 ballot. Staff's financing recommendation was favored, with the understanding that the project will be delivered through a traditional design-bid-build model. - 2026 Meeting Schedule: Approved unanimously. - Public Petition: The city noted that it has transmitted the citizen initiative petition to the Palm Beach County Supervisor of Elections and is awaiting verification; the charter process is ongoing.

The Boca Raton Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) held its regular meeting on Monday, September 22, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. The meeting was rescheduled to an earlier time due to the Jewish holiday that evening. The CRA approved its fiscal year 2025-2026 budget and the 2026 meeting schedule, heard public comments on downtown issues, and received updates from staff and commissioners. Consent Calendar - Minutes of the regular meetings of August 25, 2025, and September 8, 2025, were approved unanimously without correction. Public Comments & Testimony - John Perlman (498 NE A Street, founder of Save Boca) spoke during public requests, criticizing the city’s reliance on Brightline, citing its financial decline (missed bond payment, junk bond rating, $549 million loss in 2024), increasing fatalities, and a lawsuit by Florida East Coast Railway. He urged the CRA to stop investing in the Brightline station. - Mac Johnson spoke in support of the referendum petition on parks, arguing that the city should not sign away parkland for development, referencing the successful 1973 preservation of Red Reef Park. - Barbara Powers (192 NE Spanish Trail) expressed support for renovating City Hall, community center, and police department downtown but opposed private partnerships that reduce parkland. - Joe Graubart (120 SE Fifth Avenue) asked whether the CRA would hire an executive director with a vision for a more pedestrian-friendly downtown and noted the lack of continuous sidewalks and comfortable bus stops. He also observed the parking lot was full. - During the public hearing on the CRA budget, John Perlman again spoke, alleging that $80 million in capital outlay and redevelopment projects lacked line-item transparency and that funds would primarily benefit developers like Terra and Frisbee. He requested detailed line items be posted online. Discussion Items - FY2025-2026 CRA Budget (Resolution 2025-08-CRA): Stephen Timberlake of Financial Services presented the budget. Key points: - Total revenue projected at $31 million, with $26.75 million from tax increment financing (TIF). - Total expenditures budgeted at $70 million, including $54 million in operating costs and $15 million held over for multi-year projects. - Capital projects include transit-oriented community development, sidewalk improvements, Meisner Park upgrades, downtown traffic lights, Palmetto Park Road connectivity, parking analysis, amphitheater roof replacement, and support for Brightline station. - Three new positions funded: a customer service representative, a police officer, and a cultural/community programs administrator. - Commissioners discussed TIF mechanics, fund reserves, and the importance of spending CRA funds on downtown infrastructure to avoid reversion to the county. - Commissioner Drucker noted Brightline’s safety investments and called for public education on train safety. She also mentioned the countywide transportation master plan. - Chair Wigder emphasized that downtown investments should stand on their own regardless of Brightline’s future. - 2026 Meeting Schedule (Resolution 2025-09-CRA): Mr. Brown presented the annual calendar, adjusting meeting dates for elections, holidays, and legislative session needs. The schedule was approved as amended. Key Outcomes - Resolution 2025-08-CRA (FY2025-2026 Budget) passed unanimously (5-0). - Resolution 2025-09-CRA (2026 Meeting Schedule) passed unanimously (5-0) with amendments proposed by Mr. Brown. - The CRA director and commissioners offered final remarks. Commissioner Nachlas recognized a “parking day” event at Meisner Park. Chair Wigder thanked outgoing CRA Executive Director Mr. Brown for his service and urged collaboration on downtown improvements while noting legislative threats to CRA funding in Tallahassee. - The meeting adjourned at 10:43 a.m.

The City Council met on Monday, September 22, 2025, at 4:00 PM (transcript indicates 3:58 PM) for a regular meeting. The agenda included consent items, a government campus redevelopment partnership opportunity, quasi-judicial public hearings, regular public hearings, and public requests. The meeting adjourned at 4:54 PM. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approved: Seven sets of minutes from August 25, 2025 (workshop and executive session), August 26, 2025, September 8, 2025 (special meeting, workshop, tentative budget hearing), and September 9, 2025 (regular meeting) were approved unanimously. - Resolution No. 145-2025 (Meeting Schedule Changes): Adopted by a 5-0 vote, as amended to adjust meeting weeks in January as discussed at the prior workshop and CRA meeting. The amendment responded to public concern about meetings scheduled during holiday weeks. - Consent Items (A–I): All other consent agenda items (including procurement contracts, sole source agreements, bond referendum resolution, disaster debris removal agreement, Palm Tran bus service funding, board resignations, and board minutes) were approved unanimously without removal, except Resolution 145-2025 as noted. Public Comments & Testimony - Government Campus Redevelopment (Item 10): Multiple speakers expressed strong opposition to the proposed public-private partnership (P3) with Terra Frisbee for redeveloping public land. Key points: - Martha Parker (64 NW 7th St) criticized the lack of public trust, the absence of a public vote, and the timing of land appraisals. She urged council members to return campaign contributions from Terra Frisbee. - John Perlman (498 NE A St) accused the city of using the citywide email database to promote the developer’s project while ignoring citizen opposition. He noted that over 70 speakers at the previous meeting and approximately 40 at this meeting were all opposed except one. - Jonathan Unjin (6501 Congress Ave) acknowledged the city’s intent but said the community was not included early enough. He urged the city and developer to engage in constructive charrettes to win over more residents. - Alexandra Avelo (498 W 12th Terrace) reported knocking on doors and hearing widespread dissatisfaction, stating the council has lost the trust of the people. - Resolution 147-2025 (Telxius Cable Rights-of-Way): John Perlman questioned the benefit of the cable to Boca Raton residents, stating the only benefit was financial ($2.6 million) and that the cable serves Caribbean infrastructure. Jonathan Unjin supported the revenue but urged expedited payment timelines. Discussion Items - Government Campus Redevelopment Partnership Opportunity (Item 10): No staff presentation was made. Public comment was heard. City Manager Brown clarified that the appraisal of the conveyed land cannot occur until the final plan is tied down, and that the acreage potentially conveyed is less than earlier estimates (31 or 18 acres). Mayor Singer noted the city’s email said “interest” not “support” for the project. - Quasi-Judicial Hearing – Resolution 141-2025 (Conditional Use – 104 NW 20th St): The applicant sought conditional use approval for approximately 10,560 sq ft of retail (AutoZone) in an existing building in the M-2 General Industrial district. Staff reported that the existing building was nonconforming for parking, but the new use does not increase parking requirements. The applicant proposed landscaping improvements, including added palms, removal of an asphalt driveway, new canopy trees, and a dumpster enclosure. The Planning and Zoning Board voted 6-0 to recommend approval, and the Community Appearance Board provided favorable preliminary review. The Council approved the resolution unanimously (5-0). - Regular Public Hearing – Ordinance 5750 (General Employees Pension Lump Sum Payment): The ordinance provides a one-time lump sum payment to retirees: 5% for those who retired before October 1, 2015, and 3% for those who retired between October 1, 2015 and October 1, 2020. Total cost is $490,465, funded by the pension plan with a city contribution of the same amount, resulting in no net impact on the unfunded liability. The ordinance was approved unanimously (5-0). - Regular Public Hearing – Resolution 147-2025 (Telxius Cable Rights-of-Way): Staff (PWE Director Zach Beer) explained that the agreement updates an existing right-of-way use agreement for Telxius Cable’s existing conduits, increasing the annual per-linear-foot fee. The cable is part of a transcontinental system that lands at Spanish River Park via horizontal directional drilling, with environmental permits from the Army Corps and Governor’s office. The city receives $65,000 per year for the right-of-way, plus an easement payment of $2.6 million (already wired). The resolution was approved unanimously (5-0). - Council Member Reports: - Council Member Wigder raised the issue of delayed construction projects, citing structural and life safety risks. He sought consensus to direct staff to develop an ordinance requiring enhanced inspections and compliance for significantly delayed projects. City Manager Brown confirmed staff is already evaluating the issue and will bring a recommendation. - Council Member Drucker provided updates on Tri-Rail funding (state reinstatement of $27 million), the countywide transportation master plan (pbcmoves.com), and congratulations to colleagues appointed to Florida League of Cities policy committees. - Deputy Mayor Nachlas thanked the public for attending and reiterated her openness to meetings. She noted the Police Department’s 100-year anniversary celebration. Key Outcomes - Postponement Granted: Items 11 B.1 and B.2 (Congress Avenue school conditional use and CIMD amendment) were postponed to November 18, 2025, by unanimous vote. - Resolution 141-2025 Adopted: Unanimous (5-0) approval of conditional use for retail at 104 NW 20th St. - Ordinance 5750 Adopted: Unanimous (5-0) approval of one-time lump sum pension payments. - Resolution 147-2025 Adopted: Unanimous (5-0) approval of telecommunications rights-of-way agreement with Telxius Cable. - Consent Agenda Adopted: All items approved unanimously, with Resolution 145-2025 amended as discussed. - Next Steps on Government Campus: The city and developer will hold charrettes (sessions announced via city email) to gather community input. A public vote on the proposed bond referendum ($175 million for a new police headquarters) is scheduled for March 10, 2026, contingent on approval of Resolution 148-2025 (adopted under consent).

The Boca Raton City Council met on Tuesday, September 9, 2025, at 6:00 PM for a Regular Meeting. The lengthy session, running over 5 hours, was dominated by a highly contentious public hearing and discussion on the proposed Government Campus Redevelopment Partnership with Terra Frisbee. A clear majority of the dozens of public speakers opposed the project, citing concerns over the privatization of Memorial Park, traffic, financial projections, and process. The Council ultimately postponed the planned October 28 final vote and directed the City Attorney to draft a ballot question subjecting any final council approval to a public referendum. The Council also unanimously passed several routine consent agenda items and ordinances, including zoning changes, franchise agreements, and a clarification of a historic designation. Consent Calendar The Council unanimously adopted the Consent Agenda (Items 9A through 9L). Key items approved included: - Sole source contracts for pump repairs and wastewater services totaling over $1.69 million. - Resolution 115-2025 designating Fire Rescue Station 3 as "Kerry Koen Fire Rescue Station 3". - Easement deeds for utility access on Jeffery Street and Kingsbridge Street. - Resolution 128-2025 for an agreement with the Boca Raton Housing Authority for operations at the Lois Martin Community Center. - Resolution 134-2025 establishing a neighborhood tree and beautification program. - Resolutions 135 and 136-2025 formalizing the City Manager transition, extending George S. Brown's contract temporarily and appointing Mark D. Sohaney. - Pay and classification plan updates and a compensation study implementation (Resolutions 137 and 138-2025). - Contracts for wastewater treatment facility aeration upgrades and lime sludge removal (Resolutions 139 and 140-2025). Public Comments & Testimony (Item 10 - Government Campus) Over 30 residents provided public testimony on the Government Campus proposal, representing the most extensive public comment portion of the meeting. - Overwhelming Opposition (approx. 25 speakers): A clear majority of speakers voiced strong opposition. - Memorial Park / Veterans: Numerous speakers, including veterans (Frank Patton, Steve Griffith), firmly stated that the entire 17-acre Memorial Park constitutes a living WWII memorial and that the city's plan to develop it represents a "desecration" and a "betrayal." They argued the park itself is the monument. - Trust and Process: Many residents (John Pearlman, Ludmilla Perlman, Yvonne Zumtobel) expressed deep mistrust in the council and developer, arguing the process was rushed, the timeline accelerated to avoid scrutiny, and the plan changed so radically in two weeks it could not be trusted. They demanded a public vote. - Financial Transparency: Speakers (CPA Michelle Grau, Steve Zumtobel) heavily criticized the financial projections. Grau identified a $650 million discrepancy in the net present value of the ground lease, called the 99-year forecast "speculative," and noted the 4.5% discount rate was well below common industry standards. Others questioned the lack of an independent land appraisal and conflicts of interest involving CBRE. - Specific Objections: Testimony criticized the reduction of tennis courts (10 to 8), the removal of the skate park, the relocation of softball fields (damaging wildlife and increasing traffic at Sugar Sand Park), and the privatization of land for condos and offices. The potential for developer changes under a 99-year lease was a frequent concern. - Ethics: A speaker called for restoring high ethical standards to the interim agreement, specifically a prohibition on campaign contributions from the developer. - Minority Support (2-3 speakers): A small number of speakers (Alex D'Angelis, Josh Rosenfeld) supported the project, arguing for the need to create a vibrant, transit-oriented downtown around the Brightline station to attract young people and remain competitive. - Youth Testimony: Several young residents (Colin, Ariana Curia, Ellie Gascoigne) spoke against the development, emphasizing their desire to keep their parks and fields close to home. Discussion Items 1. Government Campus Redevelopment Partnership Opportunity (Item 10A) - Developer Presentation: Terra Frisbee (David Martin, Rob Frisbee) presented a significantly revised plan. Key changes included: - Removal of a proposed hotel. - Reduction of residential units from 1,100 to 740. - Removal of an office building on a triangular lot, replaced with an expansion of Memorial Park and a dedicated veterans' monument. - Preservation of all six banyan trees. - Addition of an 8-acre multi-purpose field, a shaded children's playground, and at least eight clay tennis courts. - Inclusion of a mobility hub for transit options, a post office, and a grocery store. - Commitment to exploring a pedestrian bridge to Mizner Park and contributing $10 million towards it. - Total projected revenue to the city over the 99-year lease: approximately $2 billion ($228 million NPV). - Developer explicitly stated their full support for a public referendum on the final plan. - Council Discussion: - Councilmember Thompson: Praised the timeline postponement and the developer's commitment to a referendum. He stressed the need for thorough traffic studies and public workshops before proceeding. - Councilmember Drucker: Defended the selection of Terra Frisbee as the partner that demonstrated the greatest willingness to listen and iterate. She highlighted the plan's potential for connectivity and activation, and confirmed the developer's commitment to a $10 million pedestrian bridge contribution and inclusion of a grocery/post office. - Mayor Singer: Corrected public misinformation (the Mayor's Ball is not his fundraiser, financial analysis oversight by independent consultant PFM). He defended the initiative as fulfilling long-standing city plans for a transit-oriented downtown and asserted the park was never formally dedicated as a war memorial, a condition the new plan would rectify. - City Manager/Staff: Confirmed an independent appraisal would be conducted and the city's fiscal consultant (PFM) was reviewing all projections. They confirmed a full traffic study would be performed. - Outcome: No vote was taken on the project itself. Council consensus was reached to: 1. Postpone the final vote (previously scheduled for October 28). 2. Direct the City Attorney to draft ballot language for a referendum making final council approval contingent on voter approval. 3. Schedule public workshops on September 29 and October 6. 4. Continue due diligence on traffic, appraisal, and financials. 5. Place the relocation of Singing Pines Children's Museum to Meadows Park on hold. 2. Ordinance 5741 - R-5 Zoning Height Increase - Public hearing for a text amendment to allow buildings up to 100 feet (from 85 feet) in the R-5 multifamily district, restricted to properties of at least 100 acres with an approved master plan. The Planning and Zoning Board recommended approval. The Council adopted the ordinance unanimously (5-0). 3. Ordinance 5747 - Singing Pines Children's Museum Historical Designation - Public hearing to clarify that the historic designation for the Singing Pines structure applies to the building itself, not the underlying land, facilitating potential relocation while preserving its historic status. The Council adopted the ordinance unanimously (5-0). Manager Brown noted the relocation to Meadows Park is on hold pending the outcome of the overall campus plan. 4. Ordinance 5749 - Spanish River Park Telecom Easement - Public hearing for the sale of an underground telecommunications easement within Spanish River Park to Telxius Cable USA for approximately $2.6 million. The easement allows an undersea fiber optic cable to connect to existing city infrastructure. Public testimony raised concerns about zoning compliance, potential impacts on adjacent private property, and the need for environmental permitting. City staff and the City Attorney confirmed the use is permitted under code and subject to state and city permitting. The Council adopted the ordinance 4-1 (Councilmember Thompson dissenting, citing unanswered questions about the definition of a utility). Key Outcomes - Government Campus: The October 28 vote was officially abandoned. The council directed the City Attorney to prepare a resolution for a public referendum on any final plan. - Terra Frisbee Workshops: The developer committed to public workshops on September 29 and October 6 to present and receive feedback on the revised plan. - Board Appointments: Brian Feist (Citizens' Pedestrian/Bikeway Advisory Board), Christian Carabia (Community Advisory Panel), Jose Jaramillo, Paula Morales, Ronka Margolina (Community Appearance Board), and Brian Isro (Sustainability Advisory Board) were appointed. - Zoning Code: Adopted Ordinance 5741, increasing maximum building height in the R-5 district to 100 feet for qualifying large master-planned properties. - Franchise Agreements: Approved non-exclusive franchise agreements for construction/demolition debris and commercial solid waste collection with Waste Management, Panzarella, All County Waste, and FCC Environmental. - Historic Preservation: Adopted Ordinance 5747 clarifying the historic designation of Singing Pines applies solely to the structure. Relocation of the structure is paused. - Downtown Plan: Adopted Ordinance 5748 amending the downtown redevelopment plan to allocate excess TIF funds. - Telecom Easement: Approved the sale of a telecom easement in Spanish River Park (4-1 vote).

The Boca Raton City Council held a special meeting on Monday, September 8, 2025, at 2:04 PM to conduct a public hearing on Resolution No. 129-2025, which equalizes and adopts the annual assessment for the Downtown Special Assessment District (Downtown SAD) for fiscal year 2026. The meeting included a staff presentation, no public comments, and a unanimous vote to approve the resolution. Discussion Items - Resolution No. 129-2025 – Downtown Special Assessment Adoption Staff presented the annual adoption of the downtown special assessment, which funds debt service and administrative costs for special assessment revenue bonds. The total assessment amount is fixed, and only per-parcel shares may be adjusted. The 2026 assessment was calculated using the latest certified tax roll (2024 from Palm Beach County Property Appraiser). Key figures: - Assessment rate: 0.00100 (a reduction of slightly over 5.5% from 2025). - Overall property values in the district increased by approximately 6.5% year-over-year. - For an average home valued at $500,000 in the downtown special district, the 2026 assessment is $50 (down from $58 in 2024 and $53 in 2023). - One bond remains, retiring in 2030; the assessment rate has decreased significantly since 2022 after a prior bond was retired. - Staff noted that for the sixth consecutive year, no objection letters were received from property owners. - Councilmembers asked no questions, and the public hearing was opened and closed with no speakers. Key Outcomes - Motion and Vote: Councilmember Wigder moved to adopt Resolution No. 129-2025; Deputy Mayor Nachlas seconded. The motion passed unanimously, 5-0 (Council members Drucker, Nachlas, Thomson, Wigder, and Mayor Singer all voting yes). - Next Steps: The resolution directs the City Clerk to record the assessments in the improvement lien book and establishes the priority of the lien. The assessment is due on or before January 1, 2026. - Adjournment: The special meeting adjourned at 2:09 PM, followed immediately by the regularly scheduled council workshop.