Margate commissioners address ACE Plaza lease concerns in town hall meeting

Concerns over the future of the historic Ace Hardware Plaza dominated discussions at the Margate CRA Town Hall meeting on April 1, 2025. Local business owners expressed anxiety about potential changes to the plaza, which has served as a community hub for over 60 years. Joey Ruiz, a long-time owner in the plaza, emphasized the emotional and economic significance of the location, stating, "This plaza has been the heart of the city... we became like a family."

Ruiz and other business owners are worried about the impact of ongoing city planning and zoning changes. They fear that if the plaza is redeveloped or demolished, they may not be able to relocate to a new space that accommodates their businesses, particularly those dealing in secondhand goods. Ruiz passionately called for a longer lease agreement, suggesting a 10 to 20-year lease to provide stability for the businesses currently operating in the plaza.

The meeting highlighted a desire for more transparency and communication between city officials and local business owners. Ruiz urged the CRA to place the issue on the agenda for future meetings, advocating for a platform where business owners can voice their concerns and collaborate with city leaders. "We want to see it on the agenda... we are Margate," he declared, underscoring the community's commitment to preserving the plaza's legacy.

City officials acknowledged the concerns but noted that discussions about the plaza's future are still in the early stages. They encouraged business owners to reach out to the CRA chair to formally request the inclusion of their concerns in upcoming meetings. The sentiment among attendees was clear: the survival of the Ace Hardware Plaza is not just about business; it’s about maintaining a cherished community space that has fostered relationships and memories for decades.