The CRA’s annual report detailed its role in funding property improvements, the installation of artistic elements like mosaics and murals, tree planting, and the support of the local tram system. Key projects discussed included the downtown undergrounding project, Riverside Improvement project, and the Dixie Highway streetscape improvement project. The report also provided updates on ongoing endeavors and future plans that entail grant applications, design completions, and budget allocations.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the advancement of the downtown undergrounding project. The proposal for this project was a topic of discussion, as well as improvements to the mini Park, and the acknowledgment of unsuccessful grant applications aimed at drainage improvements in the neighborhood.

Further, the Federal Highway Street planting program and master plan, adopted in October 2023, was presented. The program was promoted through postcards sent to property owners and coordinated site visits. Additionally, the agency is tackling the wrapping of traffic control boxes within the CRA boundaries, with necessary amendments to the maintenance agreement underway. The prohibition of advertising on traffic control boxes along US1 was noted, emphasizing the program’s restriction to the CRA zone.

The CRA’s financial achievements included the reception of a $750,000 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) for housing rehabilitation, with six of the top 11 applications having cleared environmental reviews and commenced construction. The remaining five applications are in the process of bidding and environmental clearance. Furthermore, a $4.79 million CDBG COVID grant was allocated for the acquisition, demolition, and new construction of a job training center. Collaboration with Project LIFT is set to provide services at the new facility.

The agency’s partnership with Main Street to promote the downtown area was highlighted, along with grant applications aimed at updating the historic property survey report and designating the downtown core as a historic district on the national register of historic places. The TIF revenue for fiscal year 2023, amounting to $4.2 million, was deposited into the CRA trust fund and utilized for various activities. An unaudited financial report for the fiscal year was presented with a commitment to publish the audited report on the agency’s website within 45 days after completion.

Discussions during the meeting touched upon the appreciation of the taxable value increase and the CRA’s influential role in this growth. The focus was brought to the triangle district, with commissioners considering the area’s potential for improvements and redevelopment. The city manager provided historical context and discussed strategies for collaboration with property owners, pedestrian-friendly access, and activities to attract businesses and create visibility. The potential expansion of Main Street into the triangle district and the importance of events and improvements to enhance the area’s profile were acknowledged.

The meeting also addressed concerns regarding pedestrian safety and potential enhancements on Ocean Boulevard. Insights into redevelopment opportunities and a forthcoming presentation from the public works and engineering department related to confusion corner and quiet zones were provided by the city manager.

In the context of city planning, the meeting sparked a debate on the implementation of form-based codes, especially in the Triangle district and other areas. The discussion revolved around the balance between advance code creation and case-by-case commission applications, considering the diverse businesses and activities on either side of the tracks. The implications of heavy traffic on US1 and the potential impact of road closures and property sales in the area were also scrutinized.

Concluding the meeting, the board voted on a budget amendment for the Riverside Park neighborhood improvements and the real estate development accelerator program. The budget amendment was approved.