03-28-2013 VC WS-M MINUTES OF THE WORKSHOP SESSION
VILLAGE COUNCIL OF NORTH PALM BEACH, FLORIDA
MARCH 28,2013
• Present: William L. Manuel, Mayor
Darryl C. Aubrey, Sc.D., Vice Mayor
Robert A. Gebbia, President Pro Tem
David B. Norris, Councilman
Doug Bush, Councilman
Ed Green, Village Manager
Glen Torcivia, Village Attorney
Melissa Teal, Village Clerk
ROLL CALL •
Mayor Manuel called the meeting to order at 8:40 p.m. All members of Council were present.
FOCUS GROUPS, SURVEYS, AND MARKET ANALYSIS
Mr. Green introduced Erin Carpenter, TWTW Companies, LLC, who gave a presentation on
market research.
Council discussed market research as it pertains to the focus group strategic plan initiative. By
consensus, Council directed that the focus group project be included in the FY 2014 budget. It
was determined that this initiative would be deferred until fall/early winter in order to include
seasonal residents in the project.
COMMERCIAL TEMPORARY SIGNAGE
Mr. Green reported that some commercial properties display sale and rental signs even after the
property is fully occupied as a form of marketing other properties not located within the Village.
Mr. Green noted this practice is misleading as to the number of vacant commercial units and
undermines the economic vitality of the Village's commercial corridors. In order to address
these concerns, Mr. Green reported that the Business Advisory Board recommended
implementing a use permit requirement for temporary "for sale" and "for lease" signs and
establishing minimum standards for sign materials. . Mr. Green advised that the Planning
Commission reviewed this item at its March 12, 2013 meeting, and recommended it unanimously
with minor modifications,which have been incorporated into the draft ordinance.
Discussion took place concerning Section (E)(2)e of the ordinance regarding issuing a use
permit for a one-year period. It was suggested that this time be reduced to six months, which
would correspond to the customary duration of listing agreements. Interim Community
Development Director Jodi Nentwick explained the permit process in which permits will be
cross-checked with business tax receipts to verify unit occupancy.
A concern was expressed regarding Section (C)(1) of the ordinance, which allows use of paper
signs for up to 45 days.
Discussion ensued on requiring signage that is consistent with the building in terms of aesthetics
and colors. It was noted that management companies and leasing agents might have their own
• logos and colors. Mrs. Nentwick will look at color palettes and industry standards and will
request feedback from the Realtors Association.
This item was moved forward to the Regular Session.
Minutes of Village Council Workshop Session held March 28,2013 Page 2 of 2
RECREATION MINI-BUS PURCHASE
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• Mr. Green noted that at its March 14, 2013 Workshop Session, Council discussed the best value
for purchasing a bus would be acquiring a new gas engine mini-bus with ADA capabilities.
Mr. Green presented a cost benefit analysis and a detailed summary of revenues and expenses
for four options: replace the van with a bus; retain the current van; replace the current van with a
new one; retain the current van and acquire a second van. Mr. Green provided bid estimates for
both a new bus and a new van. Mr. Green reviewed the Capital Improvement Plan and available
funding. Parks and Recreation Director Mark Hodgkins discussed keeping the current van to
transport equipment.
Discussion ensued on revenue projections. Council was not in favor of renting the bus to
outside groups. Discussion was held regarding the need for a CDL certified driver:
Consensus of Council was to move forward with the purchase of a mini-bus. This item will be
placed on an upcoming Regular Session agenda once bids are received.
ANCHORAGE PARK MODULAR BUILDINGS DEMOLITION
Mr. Green reported that estimates received for demolition of the Anchorage Park modular
buildings ranged from $14,500 to $25,600 and advised that actual costs would be available after
the project has gone through the bidding process. Mr. Green stated the expense would be
eligible for grant reimbursement. Mr. Green requested guidance on the funding source for
demolition of the buildings.
By consensus,Council agreed to the use of funds from the Recreation budget in anticipation of grant
reimbursement. This item will come back for Council approval of the demolition contract after the
project goes out to bid.
ADJOURNMENT
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With no further business to come before the Council,the meeting adjourned at 9:52 p.m.
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Melissa Teal, CMC, Village Clerk
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