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Community Redevelopment Agency

Thursday, January 30, 2025 · Government meeting record

The 30-second read

Recorded outcome

The Naples Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) met to discuss a proposed 'Design Walk' pilot project, which aims to transform alleyways in the Design District into a pedestrian-friendly commercial hub. The project includes new paving, lighting, and landscaping, with an estimated cost between $1.68 million and $1.73 million. No final vote was taken, as members requested more information on infrastructure coordination and project costs.

Why it matters

The proposed project would commit between $1.68 million and $1.73 million in public funds to renovate alleyways in the Design District, with potential impacts on local infrastructure, pedestrian access, and future commercial development.

What happens next

No later meeting or follow-up date is stated in the reviewed record.

An official outcome record - an action agenda or minutes - is published for this meeting.

Record text

No transcript is held for this meeting. Recording: Watch video

City of Naples City Council Chamber 735 Eighth Street South Naples, Florida 34102 Community Redevelopment Agency Meeting – January 30, 2025 – 8:30 a.m. It is noted for the record that all documentation electronically appended hereto is also contained in the file for this meeting with the City Clerk’s Office. 1) ROLL CALL CRA Members Present: Berne Barton Ray Christman, Chair Teresa Heitmann, Mayor (arrived 8:35 a.m.) Linda Penniman, Vice Chair Terry Hutchison, Vice Mayor Bill Kramer Beth Petrunoff Staff Present: Jay Boodheshwar, City Manager Mari Gallet, Deputy City Manager Andrew Dickman, Assistant City Attorney Gary Young, CFO/ Deputy City Manager Anita Jenkins, CRA Administrator Robert Middleton, Public Works Director Ralf Brookes, Assistant City Attorney David Horton, Executive Assistant Petitioners/Presenters Present: Dan O’Berski Xavier Iglesias Others Present: Keith Choff Elizabeth Kurtz Isbell Stuart Rothman Mike Mahigel Amy Block Lauren Batlle 2) PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Chair Christman led in the Pledge of Allegiance. 3) SET AGENDA MOTION by Hutchison to SET the Agenda; seconded by Petrunoff and unanimously carried, all Members present and voting (Barton-yes, Heitmann- yes, Hutchison-yes, Kramer-yes, Penniman-yes, Petrunoff-yes, Christman- yes) 4) PUBLIC COMMENT Keith Choff, a River Park East resident, spoke in opposition to the City’s potential purchase of the Stillwater Cove Apartments, arguing that more urgent infrastructure needs, such as canal dredging, should take priority. 5) MINUTES 5.A) Approval of the January 9, 2025 Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) Special Meeting Minutes. MOTION by Penniman to APPROVE the January 9, 2025 Special Meeting Minutes; seconded by Petrunoff and unanimously carried, all Members

Community Redevelopment Agency Meeting – January 30, 2025 – 8:30 a.m. 2 present and voting (Barton-yes, Heitmann-yes, Hutchison-yes, Kramer-yes, Penniman-yes, Petrunoff-yes, Christman-yes). Agenda Memorandum January 9, 2025 Special Meeting Minutes 5.B) Approved CRA Advisory Board Minutes - None None. 6) ANNOUNCEMENTS AND PRESENTATIONS - None None. 7) OLD BUSINESS 7.A) Discussion and Direction on the Design Walk Pilot Project. CRA Administrator Anita Jenkins utilized an electronic presentation providing an overview of the Design District Master Plan, the Design Walk's history, and the related Pilot Project. Xavier Iglesias, Senior Project Manager at DPZ CoDesign, whose firm originally created the 5th Avenue South Master Plan, stated that the Design District has the potential to become Naples’ third major commercial hub. He discussed efforts initiated in 2023 to launch the Alley Activation phase of the project, which aims to create a north-south connector through the Design District by utilizing business alleyways and parking lots. He then provided details on the Pilot Project, focusing on the block between 1st Avenue South and Central Avenue. He explained that improvements to the space would include new permeable pavers, fresh building paint, removable panel art, signage, and enhanced lighting and landscaping. Project Manager Iglesias also highlighted potential uses for key areas within the Pilot Project, suggesting that the notch area in the alley could serve as an outdoor café, while the Hill Yard could be transformed into a gathering lawn featuring an event stage and LED screen. He provided a rough cost estimate for the Pilot Project, ranging between $1,680,000 and $1,730,000. Public Comments: Elizabeth Kurtz Isbell, volunteer President of the Naples Design District, expressed support for the proposed Design Walk Pilot Project plans, noting that enhanced lighting will improve pedestrian safety. Stuart Rothman, owner of the commercial building located at 1- 99 9th Street South, said he was proud to be a partner in the public-private partnership to activate the alleys behind his building. He said the pedestrian experience and the proposed outdoor café would benefit tenants in his building. Member Petrunoff raised concerns about flooding in the Pilot Project area. In response, Ms. Kurtz Isbell expressed optimism that the permeable pavers would help mitigate the issue. CRA Administrator Jenkins stated that private property owners would sign maintenance agreements requiring them to upkeep the paved areas on their property. Project Manager Iglesias noted that the Pilot Project's paver area covers approximately 20,000 square feet. In response to Mayor Heitmann, CRA Administrator Jenkins assured that alley service areas would remain undisturbed, and parking would not be reduced. CRA Administrator Jenkins provided an update on the infrastructure project for 10th Street, 1st Avenue South, 12th Street, and Goodlette-Frank Road, stating that it is currently in the design phase, with construction anticipated to begin in 2026. Chair Christman outlined the four priority areas of the Design District Master Plan: 1) infrastructure improvements, 2) parking, 3) affordable workforce housing, and 4) the Design Walk. He noted that infrastructure, parking, and affordable housing had been addressed in previous CRA meetings and that the discussion that day should remain focused on the Design Walk Pilot Project. Mayor Heitmann stated that she had anticipated receiving more details on the Pilot Project and expressed hesitation about proceeding without additional information. CRA Administrator Jenkins clarified that the presentation that day focused solely on pavement removal, paver installation, and landscaping enhancements. Chair Christman expressed interest in completing the Pilot Project first to evaluate its feasibility for similar projects north of the block. Vice Chair Penniman stated that the number one priority should be resiliency. Vice Mayor Hutchison supported moving forward with the Pilot Project,

Community Redevelopment Agency Meeting – January 30, 2025 – 8:30 a.m. 3 stressing the need to prioritize infrastructure. He also underscored the importance of planning for the Design District’s future development and considering multi-story buildings and potential Code changes. Additionally, he inquired about the process for establishing appropriate art guidelines. Members Kramer and Barton expressed support for the Pilot Project but stressed that infrastructure work must be completed first to avoid the need to remove and reinstall pavers later. Member Barton added that it was essential to understand the full costs of the Pilot Project before committing to moving forward. Public Comments: Mike Mahigel highlighted the influx of high-end designers into the Design District and the opportunity to position the area as a premier destination for visitors flying into Naples to design their homes. He also emphasized the importance of pedestrian safety in the District. Amy Block expressed support for beautification of the area, and shared concerns regarding infrastructure and parking. Chair Christman noted that questions remained regarding costs and the details of the Pilot Project's public-private partnership agreements. In response, CFO/Deputy City Manager Gary Young recommended first receiving an update from Public Works Director Robert Middleton on the infrastructure progress. He also suggested drafting a Request for Proposal (RFP) to ensure continued progress on the Pilot Project. Assistant City Attorney Andrew Dickman said he would prepare public/private agreement templates. Council Member Kramer expressed concern regarding the amount of staff time needed to prepare for the Pilot Project. In addition, he stated that the Design Walk is an investment that will increase tax revenues for the City. Responding to Members' concerns about pedestrian safety, CRA Administrator Jenkins noted that the Design District Master Plan includes plans for improved crosswalks on U.S. 41. However, she clarified that these improvements are not part of the Pilot Project. CRA Administrator Jenkins stated that efforts are being made to coordinate infrastructure work on 1st Avenue South with the Pilot Project, ensuring that above-ground improvements will not begin until underground work is completed. Chair Christman estimated that, based on the construction timeline for the infrastructure work, the Pilot Project would likely begin in a few years. Vice Mayor Hutchison proffered a motion in an attempt to address three issues. MOTION by Hutchison to: 1) direct the City Manager to present to the CRA a detailed cost estimate of executing the Pilot Project as described by DPZ CoDesign for alley surfaces, lighting, landscaping, wall paint, wall art and Design Walk sculpture signs; 2) direct the City Manager and City Attorney to provide details regarding a public/private partnership within the Pilot Project; 3) direct the City Manager to task the appropriate staff with evaluating infrastructure improvements along with cost estimates, either before, concurrently or at an appropriate timeframe to properly protect the interests of all stakeholders in or around the project; and 4) direct the City Manager, and the City Attorney to consider how policy overlays with the Pilot Project and any friction points or obstacles associated with it; seconded by Kramer and unanimously carried, all Members present and voting (Barton-yes, Heitmann-yes, Hutchison-yes, Kramer-yes, Penniman-yes, Petrunoff-yes, Christman-yes). Agenda Memorandum Presentation Recess: 10:18 a.m. to 10:31 a.m. It is noted for the record that the same Members were present when the meeting reconvened. 8) NEW BUSINESS

Community Redevelopment Agency Meeting – January 30, 2025 – 8:30 a.m. 4 8.A) RESOLUTION 2025-0094 A RESOLUTION OF THE COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY (CRA) FOR THE PURPOSE OF APPROVING TASK ORDER NO. 4 WITH CBRE, INC. FOR PROFESSIONAL REAL ESTATE SERVICES IN AN AMOUNT NOT- TO-EXCEED $30,000 TO IDENTIFY, LIST AND SEEK OUT PUBLIC PRIVATE OPPORTUNITIES FOR DEVELOPMENT OF AFFORDABLE WORKFORCE HOUSING ON SPECIFIC PROPERTIES AS DIRECTED BY THE CRA; AUTHORIZING THE CRA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR TO EXECUTE TASK ORDER NO. 4; AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE. Assistant City Attorney Andrew Dickman read the title of the Resolution. CRA Administrator Anita Jenkins clarified that the item sought approval of a Task Order, not to exceed $30,000, for professional real estate services. The funding would support efforts to address questions raised during the January 9, 2025, CRA meeting regarding the potential purchase of the Stillwater Cove property or other properties suitable for affordable housing. Dan O’Berski, Partner at Trinity Commercial Group LLC, in collaboration with CBRE, provided an update on his efforts to identify and secure real estate for affordable housing development or redevelopment. He noted that he recently had a follow-up conversation with Corridor Ventures, the owners of Stillwater Cove, along with its multiple investors. He stated that the owners intend to sell the property and are open to further discussions to determine a potential selling price. Regarding Task Order Number 4, he said he had proposals on the majority of the work requested and anticipated its completion within 30 to 45 days. Chair Christman asked if the work and his responses would be ready before the next scheduled CRA meeting on April 3, 2025, to which Mr. O’Berski responded affirmatively. Mr. O’Berski added that he was seeking CRA approval to initiate negotiations with Corridor Ventures regarding the price of the property at the same time appraisals were being conducted. In response to Member Petrunoff, Mr. O’Berski explained that the Task Order includes assessing concerns and opportunities for improving seawalls, water flow, and other potential infrastructure issues in and around the property. Member Petrunoff asked whether it was typical for a municipality to consider purchasing affordable housing in a flood zone. Mr. O’Berski responded that nearly all real estate in Southwest Florida falls within flood zones. In response to Mayor Heitmann, CRA Administrator Jenkins stated that while Mr. O’Berski would explore other properties for affordable housing, he would only initiate discussions with property owners under the CRA’s direction. Vice Chair Penniman inquired about flood risks. Mr. O’Berski confirmed that he would assess the risks associated with the Stillwater Cove property and propose mitigation measures. Chair Christman urged Mr. O’Berski to work with relevant staff who use the Adaptation of Coastal Urban and Natural Ecosystems (ACUNE) tool that predicts flood risks throughout the City and who can develop cost estimates of seawall improvements. Mr. O’Berski clarified that while the land from the nearby Charlie C. Anthony Park could be factored into zoning considerations to potentially allow for additional units at Stillwater Cove, there are no plans to alter the park in any way. Assistant City Attorney Dickman advised that property management for Stillwater Cove should be handled separately from any real estate negotiations with Corridor Ventures and recommended issuing a distinct Request for Proposal (RFP) for the property management role. MOTION by Kramer to APPROVE RESOLUTION 2025-0094; seconded by Barton and unanimously carried, all Members present and voting (Barton- yes, Heitmann-yes, Hutchison-yes, Kramer-yes, Penniman-yes, Petrunoff- yes, Christman-yes). Consensus to allow Mr. O’Berski to negotiate the purchase and price of the Stillwater Cove property.

Community Redevelopment Agency Meeting – January 30, 2025 – 8:30 a.m. 5 Public Comment: Lauren Batlle, a River Park East resident, expressed opposition to the possible purchase of Stillwater Cove, citing flooding issues in her neighborhood. Agenda Memorandum Resolution CBRE Task Order No. 4 CBRE Task Order No. 4 Exhibit A Scope of Services 8.B) Discussion and Adoption of New Reporting Requirements for Special Districts per Section 189.0694 F.S. CRA Administrator Anita Jenkins introduced the item and provided a brief overview of the Community Redevelopment Agency Advisory Board’s (CRAAB) recommendations, which are designed to align with the statutory goals, objectives, and performance measures outlined in Florida Statutes 189.0694. She asked the CRA to adopt the recommendations, with revisions if needed, that day. CRA Administrator Jenkins utilized an electronic presentation highlighting two additional goals absent from the CRAAB’s recommendations: exploring alternative transportation methods and identifying additional parking opportunities. In response to Mayor Heitmann, CRA Administrator Jenkins stated that while the CRA has been complying with the recommendations, the document would serve as a transparent tool to systematically track and confirm adherence to the requirements. MOTION by Penniman to ADOPT the recommendations as required by Florida Statutes 189, with the addition of goals 3.4, exploring alternative transportation methods, and 3.5, identifying additional parking opportunities; seconded by Kramer and unanimously carried, all Members present and voting (Barton-yes, Heitmann-yes, Hutchison-yes, Kramer-yes, Penniman-yes, Petrunoff-yes, Christman-yes). Agenda Memorandum CRA Goals and Performance Measurements 2025 Chapter 189 - 2024 Florida Statutes Uniform Special District Accountability Act 8.C) Appointment of CRA Executive Director. Gary Young, CFO/ Deputy City Manager, noted that historically the City Manager has also served as the Executive Director of the CRA. MOTION by Kramer to APPOINT the City Manager to serve as the Executive Director of the CRA; seconded by Petrunoff and unanimously carried, all Members present and voting (Barton-yes, Heitmann-yes, Hutchison-yes, Kramer-yes, Penniman-yes, Petrunoff-yes, Christman-yes). Agenda Memorandum 9) CRA ADMINISTRATOR’S and STAFF REPORTS 9.A) Quarterly Update on the 1st Ave South Public Parking Garage. Public Works Director Robert Middleton offered a review of the First Avenue South Parking Garage project, specifically efforts related to the sitework, interior work, and exterior work. He noted that the date of the Temporary Certificate of Occupancy (TCO) has been delayed until March 17, 2025. He asserted that the following factors are the main causes for the TCO delay: 1) submittal of the private provider inspection documents to the Building Department; 2) installation and inspection of the decorative perforated aluminum panels; 3) revision of the pavement marking plan for parking; and 4) revision of the garage signs. A discussion followed regarding the Valet Parking Plan, during which Gary Young, CFO/ Deputy City Manager stated that the item is scheduled on the City Council Agenda on February 20, 2025. Agenda Memorandum Photos Schedule 9.B) CRA Administrator’s Report, January 2025.

Community Redevelopment Agency Meeting – January 30, 2025 – 8:30 a.m. 6 CRA Administrator Anita Jenkins stated that the Public Works Department is coordinating with Florida Power and Light (FPL) to establish parking on 3rd Avenue North, adjacent to the FPL station. She noted that the Community Redevelopment Agency Advisory Board (CRAAB) has considered a potential route, service hours, and operations for micro transit services within the CRA. She added that the estimated cost of $800,000 for the service would exceed the budgeted $500,000 amount. She said a discussion on the item will be included on a future CRA agenda. Members expressed the opinion that due to the cost, micro transit should be a low priority at that time. CRA Administrator Jenkins noted that five applications for the FY 2024 Residential Improvement Program are in process. She said the CRAAB recommended that the annual budget for the program be increased from $200,000 annually to $400,000 and the amount available to individuals be increased from $20,000 annually to $40,000. She said the CRAAB offered a list of additional improvements that would be eligible under the Program. In addition, she stated that the CRAAB suggested that the Program be expanded to all single-family homes within the CRA that meet the same income requirements and are Homesteaded. She said the item will be included on a future CRA agenda. CRA Administrator Jenkins provided an update on the 1st Avenue South, 12th Street South, and 10th Street Streetscape Design Project, noting that Q. Grady Minor & Associates, LLC (GradyMinor) is progressing with the 60 percent design phase. She stated that a proposed roundabout at 10th Street and 1st Avenue South was deemed unfeasible due to the presence of a pump station at the site. She said the 60 percent design will be presented to the CRA in April, 2025. Gary Young, CFO/ Deputy City Manager, said he would look into complaints regarding flashing lights at the Central Avenue roundabout and the malfunctioning fountains at the Naples Square roundabout. CRA Administrator Jenkins announced that the CRAAB and staff conducted a tour of 5th Avenue South and Sugden Plaza to assess necessary infrastructure and landscaping improvements. Once the assessments are complete, she stated that a report would be presented to the CRA. Regarding the City-owned property at 170 10th Street North, CRA Administrator Jenkins stated that it is currently being marketed for a short-term lease and that letters of interest are being accepted. Additionally, she said two appraisals have been initiated for the Stillwater Cove property. CRA Administrator Jenkins noted three current vacancies on the CRAAB and emphasized the need for more City residents on the Board, as the Code requires a majority of its seven members and one alternate to be City residents. She noted that the CRAAB is currently permitted to meet, however, only City residents will be considered to fill the vacancies. Member Petrunoff suggested that scheduling evening CRAAB meetings could help attract more candidates who work during the day. Member Kramer suggested reaching out to candidates who were previously not selected for other boards to fill the CRAAB vacancies. Agenda Memorandum 10) PUBLIC COMMENT None. 11) COMMUNICATIONS FROM CRA CHAIR, MEMBERS AND STAFF Member Kramer proposed selling the City-owned property at 170 10th Street North to help offset the cost of purchasing the Stillwater Cove property. Member Barton clarified that there are no plans to convert Charlie C. Anthony Park into residential space. Instead, he suggested using the park’s land mass to recalculate the allowable number of units on the Stillwater Cove parcel. In response to Mayor Heitmann, CRA Administrator Anita Jenkins stated that the Naples Police compile crime updates within the CRA and can include them in future Staff Reports upon request. In addition, CRA Administrator Jenkins said she would provide CRA-area landscape updates.

Community Redevelopment Agency Meeting – January 30, 2025 – 8:30 a.m. 7 Vice Mayor Hutchison cautioned that if the City were allowed to use public space to increase density for a City-sponsored project, it could set a precedent for other entities to do the same. Vice Chair Penniman recalled previously requesting the City Attorney to draft an ordinance or statement prohibiting the use of City park land for redevelopment. Member Petrunoff expressed concern about investing in affordable housing in flood prone areas and suggested focusing on resiliency efforts first. 12) ADJOURN 12:22 p.m. ____________________________ Raymond Christman, Chair ________________________________ Patricia L. Rambosk, City Clerk Meeting clerked by: ________________________________ David Horton, Executive Assistant Minutes prepared by: David Horton, Executive Assistant Minutes Approved: 4-3-25.

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