Audrey Blackmore, who said she lives at 5540 Southwest 8th in Margate, told the CRA Nov. 12 she attended an open house where she saw conceptual images and displays but did not feel the public had been asked for input on reuse of the former swap‑shop parcel.

"I was here hoping to get a better understanding of what the city of Margate can do with the old swap shop area and to see if, as citizens, if we agree or disagree," Blackmore said. She asked how residents can provide meaningful input as the city and CRA consider options for the site.

The CRA executive director responded that the swap‑shop parcel is one of several city‑owned parcels and described the CRA’s vision to develop a mixed‑use area with restaurants, entertainment and some residential space to attract people to Margate Boulevard. The executive director said CRA staff expect to have Brookfield, the developer partner, present conceptual plans and term sheets at the next CRA meeting so the board and public can review the proposal.

The resident comment and the executive director’s reply were confined to public comment and the ED’s project update; no formal decision or developer agreement was executed at the meeting. Staff said they would follow up with the resident after the meeting and invite Brookfield to present at the next CRA meeting so the board and public can ask questions and provide input.