Residents press CRA on government campus, tennis courts and transparency

Dozens of residents addressed the Community Redevelopment Agency on July 14 with questions and objections about the proposed downtown government campus, the future of the Boca Raton Tennis Center and the pace of city decision‑making.

John Perlman, organizer of the Save Boca movement, told the board that required independent analyses for public‑private projects had not been completed. “Neither the independent cost‑effectiveness analysis nor the independent public benefit analysis have been done, as required by the statute,” he said, urging officials to publish the studies and follow statutory steps before land transfers or sales are approved.

Several speakers, including Judy Morrow and Rita Head, warned that demolition or repurposing of the existing downtown tennis courts should not proceed before a completed plan and funding for replacement courts. Morrow asked for a written commitment and a cost estimate for moving the courts to Meadows Park and said the community expected replacement courts to be under construction before any downtown courts are removed.

Mayor Singer and other city officials responded that much work remains and that staff has posted an overview and frequently asked questions on the city project website; officials said additional studies and an upcoming workshop will provide more detailed information. The mayor urged residents to consult the city’s website and attend the follow‑up workshop and other scheduled meetings.

Speakers also raised questions about appraisals, the terms of potential land sales or leases, and whether statutory public‑benefit requirements for P3s had been satisfied. City staff and the mayor said those analyses are part of ongoing due diligence and pledged to publish answers and respond at subsequent public meetings.