Margate CRA members, residents press developer to follow formal entitlement process

Concerns over developer conduct and the entitlement process dominated board comments at the Margate Community Redevelopment Agency’s Jan. 14 meeting.

Antonio, a board member, said representatives from Brookfield had contacted CRA members and suggested seeking entitlements in advance of the full process. "Either go through the process the way it's laid out now or see you later," Antonio said, adding he was not opposed to the project but insisted the developer follow standard procedures.

Another board member raised allegations about an outside developer and its affiliates, saying the firm had been in default on a large loan and faced multiple lawsuits, and criticized efforts that might push entitlements before a developer agreement is finalized. That board member said the proposed project would include about 900 apartments and urged the CRA to protect local businesses and seek local control over outcomes.

Board members also discussed using plaza spaces as incubators for local businesses and suggested protections such as multi-year agreements or rent concessions to give small businesses security ahead of redevelopment. Several board members and staff reiterated that they would not grant entitlements outside the formal review and approval process.

The meeting record shows no formal vote on any entitlements. Members urged developers to follow the established review process and indicated any developer agreements or entitlements would be considered only after the proper procedural steps and negotiations were complete.