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West Palm Beach confirms four DDA appointments amid public concern over developer influence
Summary
The City Commission confirmed four Downtown Development Authority appointments July 6, including Jordan Ratliff and Craig Glover, after extensive public comment expressing concern that Related‑affiliated representatives give developers outsized influence on a seven‑member advisory board.
The West Palm Beach City Commission on July 6 confirmed four appointments and reappointments to the Downtown Development Authority (DDA), moving forward despite extended public comments urging greater resident representation and caution about perceived developer influence.
Mayor (chair) introduced nominations that included Craig Glover, Daryl K. Houston (reappointment), Kasia Marcic and Jordan Ratliff, each for three‑year terms ending July 1, 2029. Commissioners debated board composition, appointment timing and whether more slots should be reserved for residents or hospitality representatives.
Commissioner Fox spoke in support of Glover, saying his downtown business ownership and daily presence gave him perspective residents need. Commissioner Warren described Houston as a longtime nonprofit leader who advances inclusion and funding opportunities. The commission confirmed Glover (motion carried 4–1) and reappointed Houston and Marcic unanimously. Ratliff’s nomination prompted the longest public response and passed 4–1, with Commissioner Warren recorded as voting no.
More than a dozen residents and neighborhood groups urged the commission to reject Ratliff’s appointment, saying the DDA already included a second hotel‑linked representative and that the apparent concentration of employees from the same developer—identified in public comment as Related/Related Ross—creates an appearance of imbalance and undermines public trust. Speakers requested clearer public biographies for nominees and earlier notice of appointments so residents could assess whether nominees meet residency or owner‑criteria cited on the DDA website.
Supporters of Ratliff—including several residents and small business advocates—said he has been responsive to neighborhood concerns and partners with the commission and DDA on everyday downtown issues such as events, cleanliness and safety. Commissioners emphasized the DDA’s advisory role (it does not issue development approvals) and noted that conflict‑of‑interest rules and the DDA’s counsel would apply if a voting conflict arose.
Multiple commissioners acknowledged timing concerns and signaled interest in clarifying DDA bylaws or the appointment committee's processes to ensure balance between business, hospitality and resident representation.
The commission’s recorded votes: Craig Glover — confirmed (4–1); Daryl K. Houston — reappointed (unanimous); Kasia Marcic — appointed (unanimous); Jordan Ratliff — confirmed (4–1). Mayor (chair) announced the results after each voice vote. Commissioners who spoke publicly in favor emphasized experience and community engagement; those urging caution emphasized transparency, residency, and perceived concentration of corporate representation.
