Craig Ehrnst

The meeting focused on reviewing and seeking approval for a formal agreement document following feedback received from the previous Wednesday's session. Key revisions involved adding a fictitious name affidavit exhibit to legally link Southern Hills and the responding proposer, Nick Price, ensuring the proposal was submitted by the correct party. The document incorporated both proposals and the district's competitive solicitation by reference, establishing a clear hierarchy in case of conflict. Significant contractual changes included the removal of provisions regarding interest payments for late fees and the addition of a termination option allowing the district to end the agreement without cause after Phase 2 design completion. Furthermore, language was added to require that all consultant employees and subcontractors must be legally eligible to work in the United States. The records section was updated to include an audit provision granting unfettered access for inspection and auditing purposes. Clarifications were made to the assignment clause, allowing the district to assign rights to an entity under common interest or to the city without consent. Exhibit D, the consultant list, was updated by removing Pro Links from the sub-consultant team.

The meeting commenced with a public request read aloud concerning the outstanding performance of Sugar Sand staff during a charity pickleball tournament, noting that nearly four thousand dollars was raised for the Boca Raton Firefighter and Paramedic Benevolent Fund. Key discussion points involved authorizing negotiation of an amendment to the existing agreement with the YMCA to facilitate future programming, including overflow programs (such as karate and gymnastics), winter/spring break camps, and evaluation of the facility as a potential site for licensed aftercare programs due to school capacity limitations. The board also discussed the City's Capital Improvement Program (CIP) requests, focusing on the budget for recreation projects, including improvements to the tower at Donald Limbo and the future Victory Nourishment Project. Specific concerns were raised regarding the urgent need for maintenance and potential replacement of light towers at the beaches. Discussions also covered the allocation of responsibility for chiller maintenance at Sugar Sand Park. Finally, the board approved payroll invoices and received an update on the Master Plan, noting a public hearing scheduled for September 6th, and discussed the application for the Florida Recreation Development Assistance Program (FRDAP) grant for the Patrick Park Pickleball Project.

The board meeting covered several significant topics related to park usage and property management. A commissioner provided historical context on the Beach Park District's establishment in 1973 and highlighted past land acquisitions, including Broken Sound property and the 16 acres on the ocean. Public commentary focused heavily on proposed development plans, specifically concerning Patrick Park and a potential alternative location at the former Hidden Valley Golf Course. Residents expressed strong concerns regarding commercialization of public parks, traffic implications from proposed developments, and adherence to existing lease agreements that mandate public recreational use. The board was urged to cease negotiations with one private entity and to explore joint solutions with the City Council regarding the Hidden Valley property, while also considering input from golf course experts regarding proposed golf course redesigns for the existing course.

The Board of Commissioners meeting included significant public comment regarding the proposed North Park Skate Park, with many residents expressing support for the project, citing benefits like physical activity and community building, while others voiced concerns over cost, location proximity to residences, and transparency. Key business items included the unanimous approval of the conceptual design for the North Park Skatepark and Pump Track, authorizing the preparation of construction documents and permitting. The Board also approved an agreement for the design, permitting, and bidding services for lighting on the remaining six unlit tennis courts at the Swim & Racquet Center (Phase 2). Furthermore, agreements were approved for two traveling exhibits at the Children's Science Explorium: 'Life on the Edge' and 'TreeHouses: Look Who's Living in the Trees!'. Finally, the Board adopted a Use and Pricing Policy for the new EV Charging Stations at Patch Reef Park Paddle & Racquet Club, setting initial rates.

The meeting included public requests concerning the North Park project bids, where a concern was raised about the cancellation of bids due to exceeding the budget and the lack of a revised proposal. The Board proceeded with the Election of Officers, electing Commissioner Rollins as Chair, Commissioner Wright as Vice Chair, and Commissioner Ehrnst as Secretary-Treasurer for 2026. State Representative Peggy Gossett-Seidman provided an overview of the upcoming legislative session, discussing state appropriations and sponsored bills. The Board approved a routine structural inspection of the pedestrian bridge at the Swim & Racquet Center and approved renovations for the Patch Reef Park Community Center, including ADA-accessible restrooms and lighting upgrades. Reports indicated progress on the Sugar Sand Park roof project, with roller rink cover bids due soon. Commissioners discussed exploring partnership opportunities regarding the former Mizner Country Club Golf Course property and the need to update the District's enabling legislation.