09/05/2000
CITY COMMISSION WORKSESSION
CITY OF CLEARWATER
September 5, 2000
Present: Brian J. Aungst Mayor/Commissioner
J. B. Johnson Vice-Mayor/Commissioner
Ed Hooper Commissioner
Robert Clark Commissioner
Ed Hart Commissioner
Also present: William B. Horne II Interim City Manager
Garry Brumback Acting Assistant City Manager
Bob Keller Assistant City Manager
Pamela K. Akin City Attorney
Cynthia E. Goudeau City Clerk
Patricia O. Sullivan Board Reporter
The meeting was called to order at 9:05 a.m. at City Hall following a meeting of the
Pension Trustees.
PUR PURCHASING
books & library materialsLIB
Book Wholesalers Inc., , 10/1/00-9/30/01, estimated $81,000 ()
subscription services
Ebsco Subscription Services, , 10/1/00-9/30/01, estimated $93,000
LIB
()
books & library materials
Ingram Library Services, , 10/1/00-9/30/01, estimated $260,000
LIB
()
books & library materialsLIB
The Booksource, , 10/1/00-9/30/01, estimated $39,000 ()
video tapesLIB
Distribution Video and Audio, , 10/1/00-9/30/01, estimated $35,000 ()
books & library materialsLIB
The Gale Group, , 10/1/00-9/30/01, estimated $29,000 ()
hardware maintenance & software license
Gaylord Bros, for computer equipment used at all
LIB
library branches, 10/1/00-9/30/01, estimated $45,000 ()
legal services
Thompson, Goodis, Thompson, Croseclose & Richardson, P.A., , estimated
CA
$40,000 ()
one OPTIMA 2000 IPC instrumentPW
Perkin-Elmer LLC, , $75,493 ()
one 2001 Ford F-450
Altec Industries Inc., with Altec AT35G aerial lift, replacement, $65,250;
GS
financing to be provided under City's Master Lease-Purchase Agreement ()
two 2001 Ford E-350
Altec Industries Inc., with Altec AT200V aerial lift, replacement,
GS
$107,498; financing to be provided under City's Master Lease-Purchase Agreement ()
one Ford F-450 cab & chassis
World Industrial Equipment Inc., with utility body and Sighalier
SLT28 aerial platform, replacement, $65,293; financing to be provided under City's Master
GS
Lease-Purchase Agreement ()
Library Director John Szabo said library purchases are impractical to bid. In addition to
cost, staff considers availability and delivery times. Purchasing Director George McKibben
said staff shops all vendors for best pricing. The City Attorney stated legal services relate to
the 1993 Crouch case, which is expected to go to trial next year.
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BU BUDGET
Public Hearing - Fiscal Year 2000-2001 Budget
In her August 29, 2000 memorandum, Budget Director Tina Wilson reviewed budget
Ordinance #6607-00
ordinances: 1) establishes millage for FY (fiscal year) 2000/01 at the City
Ordinance #6608-00
Manager’s proposed rate of 5.5032 mills and 2) establishes operating
budgets for FY 2000/01.
Changes from preliminary budget: a) General Fund - budgeted revenues &
expenditures - $140,720 to develop SPJC (St. Petersburg Junior College) field site; b) General
Fund - budgeted revenues - additional $115,220 of ad valorem proceeds based upon Pinellas
County final preliminary figures, of which $50,000 is designated for CHIP (Clearwater
Homeless Intervention Program) and $65,220 remains available; and d) Water & Sewer Fund -
budgeted revenues & expenditures - reflects adopted rate increase.
Ordinance #6609-00
Based on City Commission direction on August 29, 2000, , which
establishes the operating budget for the Capital Improvement Budget for FY 2000/01,
eliminates $2.8-million Memorial Civic Center project and reappropriates those funds: 1)
$820,260 - Police beach substation; 2) $820,260 - Sand Key Fire Station; and 3) $120,440
increase in unallocated Penny for Pinellas funds. Budgeted revenues and expenditures reflect
additional $7,710 of ad valorem proceeds based on final preliminary figures furnished by
Pinellas County. These funds are to be allocated to Street Resurfacing.
Ms. Wilson said staff will distribute a list of City Commission changes to Penny for
Pinellas projects. Fiscal Administrator Margie Simmons said staff is preparing a memorandum
on alternate funding sources to increase fire services. While Penny for Pinellas funds can
cover a small portion of Fire Task Force recommendations, operating expenses far exceed
capital costs. A funding stream must be identified. She reviewed funding options related to
general obligation and revenue bonds, stating with bonds, those who use projects pay for
them.
Discussion re Fiscal Review Committee
In her August 28, 2000 memorandum, Budget Director Tina Wilson reviewed the history
of the FRC (Fiscal Review Committee). Years ago, the BAC (Budget Advisory Committee) was
formed to review the budget and make recommendations to the City Commission. Members
often questioned if the Commission considered their efforts and requested specific direction.
In 1996, the Commission replaced the BAC with the FRC. Each Commissioner appointed one
person to the 5-member committee for a term concurrent with the appointing Commissioner’s
term. The basic scope of the Committee remained unchanged. The FRC has 3 members.
Last fall, staff requested Commission guidance regarding the committee. Ms. Wilson
indicated the Committee often struggles with its role and meetings often are canceled due to a
lack of quorum. It is difficult to involve the FRC in budget decisions when they meet only twice
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a month during the budget process. Members wish greater roles in the development of the
Preliminary, or City Manager’s Recommended Budget.
Election years also affect committee appointments. New City Commissioners usually
appoint FRC members near the end of the budget process. The Committee requires
significant staff time. Demands for materials usually coincide with staff preparation of the City
Manager’s budget, and compiling mid-year and third-quarter budget reports. Ms. Wilson
recommended the City Commission appoint committees only to deal with single specific issues
over a period of time, similar to the Fire Task Force. She said the FRC was successful when
tasked to review: 1) Clearwater Gas System’s Strategic Plan and Gas Rates; 2) Business
Plans for the City Marina and Pier 60; and 3) proposal on Clearwater Solid Waste Roll-Off
Service.
Ms. Wilson said the two-hour meeting length is inadequate to cover budget issues.
Member frustration at absenteeism rates was noted. It was felt the committee needs a clearly
defined role.
Consensus was to disband the FRC.
It was requested that staff advise FRC members that the City Commission will vote on
this issue on Thursday. It was requested that his issue be agendaed for reconsideration prior
to the March election.
ED ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Brownfields Area Environmental Justice Action Agenda
Approve City of Clearwater
Economic Development Program Manager Miles Ballogg reported the EPA
Environmental Protection Agency) defines Environmental Justice as “The fair treatment for
people of all races, cultures, and incomes, regarding the development of environmental laws,
regulations, and policies." The City’s Brownfields Area Environmental Justice Action Agenda,
developed as a nationwide model, is designed to respond to resident concerns, focus on
resident priorities, review Brownfields work plans, and adhere to the law. Environmental
Justice Action Agenda partners include the Community, EPA, ICMA (International City and
County Managers Association), USF (University of South Florida), FAMU (Florida Agricultural &
Mechanical University), and City staff.
The Action Agenda’s goal is to clean up and redevelop Brownfields sites. The Action
Agenda provides a framework to work with community residents and other concerned citizens
to achieve that goal. The community was involved in the plan’s development through surveys,
neighborhood forums, brainstorming sessions, forums with City officials, and joint workshops
with the community and staff. The Environmental Justice Action Agenda is a central
component of the Federal and State Brownfields work plans.
Implementation of the Action Agenda will not be limited to: 1) develop Brownfields
Module to explain, in layman terms, Brownfields redevelopment concepts and increase
awareness of Brownfields; 2) assist area residents & groups to apply for funds to develop a
Brownfields newsletter; 3) serve as mediator among area residents & agencies that handle
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Brownfields redevelopment issues; 4) assist City in developing grant proposals; 5) delegate
responsibility for Stevenson Creek restoration issues to the Environmental Advisory Board; and
6) partner with Pinellas County Health Department to assess environmental contaminant
exposure.
The current Environmental Justice Action Agenda does not address ways to fund
implementation efforts. The Action Agenda’s next phase will identify, analyze, and pursue
funding sources. Implementation efforts will: 1) explain strategy, reach out to, and inform the
community; 2) develop web site and newsletter; 3) engage community early in process; 4)
focus on redevelopment; 5) communicate health risks to community; and 6) apply for grant
funding. The plan requests no funding from the City’s General Fund.
Mr. Ballogg said outreach efforts were successful. Some workshops attracted more
than 50 participants. Between 35 and 40 brainstorming sessions were held in residences.
Funds are available for business incubation efforts. Also, staff has applied for a $70,000
economic development grant and is working with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and
legislators regarding Stevenson Creek. Clearwater’s Brownfields project, considered a
national model, was the first in the nation to develop an environmental strategy and has
completed more assessments and projects than any other program in Florida. Assistant City
Manager Bob Keller said the program is considered the premier Brownfields project in the
Southeast.
The City Commission commended the community, staff, University of South Florida and
Florida A&M University staff and representatives for their hard work.
FN FINANCE
property, casualty, liability, workers' compensation, emergency
Approve purchase of
medical services (EMS), fuel tank, & flood insurance coverage
for Fiscal Year 2000-2001,
amount not to exceed $860,000
Risk Management purchases insurance coverage for the City related to property,
casualty, liability, workers’ compensation, EMS (Emergency Medical Services), fuel tanks, and
flood. Total premiums are estimated to cost $836,533.
Excess Property
, Agent – Insurance & Risk Management Services, Inc., Naples,
Florida - $100-million coverage includes Sand Key Bridge, total premiums $408,723: 1)
Lexington Insurance Co. - $190,823; 2) Royal Surplus Lines Insurance Co. - $88,000; 3)
Westchester Insurance Co. - $80,000; and 4) Royal Surplus Lines Insurance Co. - $50,000.
Miscellaneous Coverage
, Agent – AJ Gallagher & Co., Tampa Bay, Florida – total
premiums $46,880: 1) Boiler & Machinery – Hartford Steam Boiler - $6,248; 2) Marina
Operators Legal Liability – ITT/Hartford Insurance Co. - $17,500; 3) Underground Fuel Tank
Liability – Commerce & Industry - $7,757; and 4) Flood Insurance for specific properties
(premiums estimated for all properties) – Bankers Insurance Group - $15,375.
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Miscellaneous Coverage
, Agent – Acordia Southeast, Clearwater, Florida – total
premiums $380,830: 1) Crime & Dishonesty – Travelers Casualty - $5,162 premium; 2) Excess
Liability - $5-million – North River Insurance Co. - $238,000; 3) Excess Liability - $5-million –
New Coverage – Market America Insurance Co. - $20,000; 4) EMS Liability (reimbursable)
Florida, Professional, & EMS – Underwriters at Lloyds/GL - $56,000; 5) Business Auto –
National indemnity Co. - $31,668; and 6) Excess GL/Professional/Auto/EMS Liability -
$30,000.
The City’s contract with Pinellas County requires the City to purchase EMS liability
coverage. The County reimburses this expense.
Staff recommends purchasing these insurance policies. Premiums and coverage are
similar to last year, except the property insurance premium has increased substantially, even
with a higher self-insured retention and without the City having any claim losses exceeding its
current self-insured retention.
All property risks are covered at levels and rates, which represent a reasonable and
conservative insurance program. Recommended purchases are for one year beginning
October 1, 2000. Flood insurance and underground storage tank policies have different
effective dates. Staff recommends increasing the self-insured retention for property insurance
to $500,000 so the self-insured retention for property insurance, civil liability insurance, and
workers’ compensation insurance is the same.
Staff recommends purchasing another layer of $5-million excess liability insurance, and
requests authorization to spend $20,000 for that purchase. The difference between the
$860,000 request for insurance premiums and the anticipated $836,533 expenditure will allow
changes during the year, mostly related to City property acquisition, construction, or leasing
new facilities.
The FY 2000/01 budget includes $520,000 for insurance premiums. EMS Liability of
$117,668 is reimbursable. The difference, of up to $199,000, will be provided at first Quarter
from unappropriated retained earnings of the Central Insurance Fund.
According to cost comparisons, coverage for Excess Property coverage increased from
$187,388 in FY 1998/99 and 1999/00 to $408,823 for next year. In FY 1996/97, the City paid
$427,500 for coverage. Total premiums will increase from $589,693 last year to $836,533.
Risk Manager Leo Schrader reported while property insurance premiums for coastal
communities have increased substantially, other rates have declined. Staff recommends
increasing per event self-coverage from $250,000 to $500,000, the same level as workers
compensation and liability claim coverage. In the past decade, no City loss has been greater
than $250,000.
Concern was expressed this recommendation may not be wise. Mr. Schrader said
some recommended policies provide coverage only after primary policy limits are reached.
Staff will report why flood insurance rates decreased. Staff had not anticipated the significant
increase in property insurance rates. Ms. Simmons said a first quarter amendment to the FY
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2000/01 budget is preferable to amending the budget now. The self-insurance fund has a
healthy balance.
The majority agreed to make the related budget amendment at first quarter FY
2000/01.
Mr. Schrader said one vendor no longer provides coverage. Ms. Simmons will review
the actuary report to be certain all costs are covered. She recommended added liability
coverage.
SBS STRATEGIC BUSINESS SERVICES
installation of gas mains, service lines, &
Contract to Mastec North America, Inc., for
exterior underground house piping
, for $955,185
Mastec North America, Inc., was the lowest responsive bidder. Of the four bidders,
Heuer Utility provided the lowest bid but failed to submit the required Bid Bond as requested.
After consulting with Purchasing and Legal, it was determined that Heuer utility did not meet
bid requirements and was disqualified.
Mastec North America, Inc.’s current contract with the City expires on September 30,
2000. The firm’s work has been satisfactory. The new contract will extend from October 1,
2000 to September 30, 2001. The firm will install gas mains, service lines, and underground
exterior house piping to meet commercial and residential customer requirements in support of
gas sales and operations. Materials will be withdrawn from inventory and charged to the
project.
Clearwater Gas System Managing Director Chuck Warrington said a competing firm,
familiar with the City’s bidding process, discontinued its services last year. The firm reentered
the field but failed to comply with bid requirements.
GS GENERAL SUPPORT SERVICES
Approve Term Sheet with Philadelphia Phillies
General Support Administrator Keith Ashby requested more time to complete
negotiations with the Phillies. He will present the term sheet to the City Commission on
Thursday. The draft distributed on September 1, 2000, was updated on August 31, 2000.
PD POLICE
acceptance of 2nd year grant funding
Approve from State of Florida, Office of Attorney
General, 2000/01 Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) Grant Program, $34,910
The Police Department has been awarded a $34,910 VOCA (Victims of Crime Act)
grant to continue funding an additional victim advocate position. The department used last
year’s VOCA grant to provide crisis counseling to more crime victims, follow-up contact,
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information and referral, criminal justice support/advocacy, emergency financial assistance,
and assistance in filing compensation claims. This program, which includes volunteer
assistance, provides all services 24 hours a day. The additional victim advocate position
minimizes negative impacts on services due to vacation and sick days.
The grant will cover: 1) $33,715 - salary and benefits; 2) $290 – mileage; 3) $100 –
postage; 4) $276 - cell phone service; 5) $29 - beeper service; and 6) $500 - training. A
percentage of the current victim advocate’s salary and benefits will cover the required $8,728
match. The City is not required to retain the position at the end of the grant period.
VOCA program guidelines require all grant recipients to utilize volunteers in victim
advocacy programs. The Police Department has been successful in recruiting outstanding
volunteers for this program. The department provides volunteers with screening, training,
office space, equipment, and free parking.
Police Chief Sid Klein said the department will continue the program as long as grants
are available. Volunteers were encouraged to contact the department.
PR PARKS AND RECREATION
Florida Recreation Development Assistance Program (FRDAP) project grant agreement with
East West Recreational Trail
FDEP for , $150,000
The City was awarded a $150,000 FRDAP (Florida Recreation Development
Assistance Program) grant to construct a recreation trail, three footbridges, and other support
facilities through Cliff Stephens Park and Carpenter Field between Old Coachman Road and
Fairwood Avenue. The City’s $150,000 match is budgeted as a Capital Improvement Project.
The six-month project should be completed by August 1, 2001. The project will not require
additional staffing or ongoing resources.
Parks & Recreation Director Peter Dunbar said this project covers 5,600 linear feet.
The existing 6-foot wide concrete trail does not meet current standards and will be replaced by
a 10-foot wide trail. The trail already extends under US 19N.
PW PUBLIC WORKS
Ord. #6587-00
First Reading - providing for metering of reclaimed water service to multi-family
dwelling units, changing commercial rate structure, and adding reclaimed water restrictions
This ordinance proposes to: 1) meter reclaimed water to multi-family dwelling units at a
rate of $9/monthly plus $0.30 per 1,000 gallons. The current rate ranges from $20/monthly to
$70/monthly, depending on the number of units. All multi-family structures now will be charged
the same availability fee plus a usage rate based on consumption. The estimated 34 Island
Estates accounts will be converted as quickly as possible. Staff already has notified
customers regarding the change; 2) change commercial/industrial rate for reclaimed water
from $1.50/HCF (hundred cubic feet) to $0.30/1,000 gallons. As service is requested on north
Clearwater beach, commercial and multi-family accounts will be established. Meter Installation
for current multi-family and commercial/industrial customers will cost approximately $5,000.
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Sufficient funds are available; and 3) restrict reclaimed water use and prohibit use between
10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.
Public Utilities Director Kevin Becotte said the reclaimed water availability fee is
$9/month per property. The fee covers capital costs related to installation of the pipe in front
of each property. A high-rise building is considered one property.
Chinaberry Drive / Grovewood Avenue Drainage
Contract to Kloote Contracting, Inc., for
Improvements
, for $25,052.94
This project will reconstruct approximately 650 linear feet of drainage swale within the
rear property easement of homes bounded by Chinaberry Drive and Grovewood Avenue. The
current swale, filled with silt and sand from stormwater runoff, has lost its ability to direct
stormwater runoff away from the homes. Restoring the swales is necessary maintenance and
will alleviate area-flooding problems.
Public Works Administrator Mahshid Arasteh said the project will reroute stormwater.
The swale will be altered to minimize future silt deposits.
Agreement
with FDOT, for Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) work to be performed by
Res. #00-16approve
FDOT along SR 60 & US 19N; - authorizing execution of agreement;
funding
of project to FDOT of not to exceed $1.1 million with additional contingency of up to
$350,000 to be sent to FDOT in the event bid prices exceed the estimate
The City has been awarded a Federal grant worth approximately $2.7-million for ITS
(Intelligent Transportation Systems) along SR 60 (Gulf-to-Bay Boulevard) and US 19N. The
grant requires a local match. ITS will enhance traffic flow, disseminate real time parking
information to motorists, and aid police, fire, and emergency responses along Gulf-to-Bay
Boulevard and US 19N. The project includes Dynamic Message Signs, upgraded traffic
software, Closed Circuit Television, and Traffic Operation Center modifications. The City has
entered into an agreement with the MPO (Metropolitan Planning Organization) to share the
cost of the match. The MPO will fund $1.6-million and the City will fund $1.1-million.
The JPA (Joint Participation Agreement) with FDOT (Florida Department of
Transportation) also requires up to $350,000 additional from the City should bid prices exceed
estimates. Upon City approval, FDOT will enter into a partnership agreement with FHWA to
ensure their $2.7-million contribution. Payment of the match is due to FDOT before a design
consultant is hired, in approximately 5 months. FDOT has agreed to design and construct the
project with City and MPO input.
Ms. Arasteh estimated the total project will cost $5.4-million, plus a contingency fee.
Phase I will cover Gulf-to-Bay Boulevard between US 19N and Highland Avenue and then US
19N between Gulf-to-Bay Boulevard and Haines Bayshore. Installation on McMullen-Booth
Road is planned during the next phase. Staff will distribute a diagram of project routes. City
funding will come from the Gulf-to-Bay Boulevard improvement project fund which has a
balance of approximately $5-million.
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Clearwater Beach Entryway Advisory Committee
Finalize Mission Statement for ; appoint 2
alternates
The proposed Mission Statement is, “The Clearwater Beach Entryway Advisory
Committee will advise the City Commission on recommended solutions to make the Clearwater
Beach Entryway (roundabout) safe, efficient, and friendly for all stakeholders and users. It is
proposed the Clearwater Beach Entryway Advisory Committee will meet twice monthly for
several months, and then monthly thereafter, or at a frequency to permit timely review of staff
and consultant plans and designs.
It is proposed that the purpose of the Clearwater Beach Entryway Advisory Committee
will be to: a) interpret and serve as liaison between citizens who developed the vision at the
July 27 and 31 charettes and staff to carry out these changes; b) review and provide details to
the engineering analysis and propose immediate and short term geometric, operations, and
maintenance solutions; c) retain, as much as practicable, the community vision as expressed
in charettes documents and reports; d) work toward solving immediate and short-term issues;
e) identify educational, informational, and enforcement measures; f) determine measurements
to assure the entryway meets its objectives to become safer, more efficient, and friendly for all
users; g) review these measures and report on the progress and effects of changes; and h)
review, monitor, and oversee development of long-range topics that the City needs to consider.
These measures will be addressed if immediate and short-term measures fail to fully meet
their intended objectives.
The Interim City Manager reported the first committee meeting is scheduled for
September 13, 2000, at 3:00 p.m. It was recommended Purpose “h” be amended to limit the
scope from all long-range topics. Regarding Purpose “b,” concern was expressed that
members lack engineering training. Non-voting staff members will be present to answer
questions. City Engineer Mike Quillen anticipated the committee will provide input regarding
bollards, etc., not technical advise. Staff will revise document language.
A time line was recommended. Ms. Arasteh anticipated costs for short-term fixes
recommended by the Crown report will be available in October. It was felt it is important that
committee efforts not just rubber stamp staff plans. Mr. Quillen recommended completing
short-term enhancements before Spring Break. It was felt sufficient time is needed to consider
community concerns and input. Concern was expressed the project not be bogged down by
minutia. It was noted the Crown report had analyzed more than 70 suggestions.
The Interim City Manager said the project will be brought back to the City Commission
in October, with sufficient time to change the roundabout prior to Spring Break. It was
recommended the committee focus on long-term plans to improve the roundabout and limit
accidents. Ms. Arasteh said the project could meet its fast track construction schedule if the
committee meets weekly. It was recommended that Mission Statement approval be delayed
until after committee reviews and comments. City Clerk Cyndie Goudeau will distribute the
original list of nominees.
The Commission recessed from 11:02 to 11:16 a.m.
PRESENTATIONS
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Beach Master Plan - Charlie Siemon
Charlie Siemon, of Siemon & Larsen, said the City was unsuccessful in acquiring the
Days Inn to construct the Pier 60 plus parking garage. He will continue to pursue the location
and recommended an alternative Third Street location for a resort and parking garage. He
said Cheezum project traffic now will be insufficient to support a parking garage at Pelican
Walk without a $300,000 to $500,000 City subsidy during the first five years. He said the
garage would be a catalyst for development.
Mr. Siemon presented a preliminary design for Clearwater beach and design
guidelines, “Beach by Design.” He suggested the City either limit beach access by vehicles,
not people, or erode the beach’s character by constructing more roads and garages. As the
beach’s capacity is limited, he said this decision is key in determining the beach’s future
character. More than 200 citizens provided plan input. Current problems include heavy traffic,
pedestrian mobility issues, a lack of parking, and the City’s identity and image. He
recommended the City initiate strategies, work with property owners, developers, and citizens
to realize plan objectives, and strike a balance for all users without penalizing one group.
Mr. Siemon reviewed various beach land use districts. The Clearwater Pass area
features tourism and hotel uses. The City should retain the unique old Florida character north
of Rockaway beach. He recommended developing marina residential properties east of
Poinsettia with medium intensity and mid-rise construction on the waterfront. Pier 60 will
remain a public attraction and provide a point of arrival and departure. A grand promenade, or
“Beachwalk,” should replace parking and extend from Pier 60 to the Adams Mark Hotel. Small
motels can fill in the backside along Coronado and Hamlin.
Mr. Siemon reviewed strategies to address mobility issues: 1) improve roads: 2)
improve pedestrian and bicycle ways; 3) provide intra-beach transit system; 4) provide
transportation to/from downtown during peak periods; 5) ration access during peak periods;
and 6) widen Coronado to 3-lanes with reversible center lane. It is important to balance the
beach’s character with the level of needed services. He suggested widening Hamden to
provide an unbalanced one-way pair with Coronado. Routing traffic away from Gulfview is
important.
Mr. Siemon recommended North Mandalay feature a retail street character with two
wide traffic lanes, 2 lanes for parallel parking, and 15-foot sidewalks. Two lanes for day time
through traffic could be converted to parallel parking spaces at night. Safe havens would
encourage pedestrian movement during peak traffic movement. A parking garage at Pelican
Walk would be a primary investment in future revitalization.
While visitors to other beach destinations often enjoy renting and riding bicycles,
Clearwater beach is not pedestrian or bicycle friendly. It would be desirable for people to walk
and bike rather than drive. A continuous sidewalk system is important. He recommended
planting trees and constructing a sidewalk along one side of Coronado, as space is too narrow
for sidewalks on both sides of the road.
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He suggested Gulfview be realigned to curve and provide sidewalk space for outdoor
cafés and street activities and a pedestrian way to the west lined with trees. In addition to two
traffic lanes, a 15-foot wide pathway for bicycles and rollerblades would minimize pedestrian
conflict. He recommended encouraging pedestrian movement with an intra-beach transit
system connecting the Adams Mark Hotel with the Rockaway beach parking lot. All potential
parking would border the transit route. He said the system, whether narrow gauge rail or
rubber wheeled, could be a tourist attraction. The vehicle would travel between 6 and 10 mph.
Federal funding may be available. He also recommended the City provide a transit link
between downtown and the beach during peak times. Regularly scheduled service would
encourage use.
Parking is needed at Pelican Walk, Beach Walk, and in the Clearwater Pass area. A
lack of sufficient parking is an obstacle to attracting a high caliber hotel property. He
recommended the City amend its comprehensive plan under PPC (Pinellas Planning Council)
rules to designate Primary Activity Centers and create a limited pool of hotel units that sunset
in areas where the City is encouraging high quality development. The current system favors
residential construction, which creates more traffic and complicates hurricane evacuations.
Hotel standards would be required: 1) minimum 200 rooms; 2) full range facilities/amenities; 3)
internal corridors to rooms; 4) national or international flag; 5) trip generation program limiting
private automobile use by providing guests with transportation to airport and restaurants; 6)
close and evacuate during all hurricane watches; 7) a maximum 10% of rooms with kitchen
facilities; 8) maximum tenancies of 30 days; 9) exceptional architectural design; and 10) at
least one acre in size. He suggested the City could construct a parking garage for off street
parking through a public/private partnership.
Mr. Siemon said south beach is one of the world’s greatest beaches in a major
metropolitan area. He discussed methods to limit vehicle access during peak days. He
estimated road improvements and construction of Beach Walk would cost $10.5- to $15-
million. Project benefits will increase property values and property taxes. Public investment
will encourage private investment. He said a transit system would require no more than five
vehicles. A single track would be sufficient with enough lay-bys. The Rockaway beach area
will not meet central beach visitor parking needs until a transit system is constructed. He said
a south beach parking garage should be constructed first. A parking garage at Pelican Walk
will enhance retail efforts on Mandalay Avenue. He said Rockaway beach is less desirable for
a parking garage. The farther a parking garage is from the beach, the less use it will receive.
Mr. Siemon recommended staff review the master plan document and schedule a City
Commission workshop to discuss an agenda of issues. Once the Commission is comfortable,
he recommended inviting community debate, scheduling charettes, and developing a
public/private investment strategy. He suggested the City could charge beach residents and
hotels a $50 to $100 special assessment for all to share fairly in the cost of renovations.
Planning Director Ralph Stone said a Primary Activity Center designation would require
Commission, County, and State approval. Staff will propose a schedule of meetings to discuss
the proposal.
Mr. Siemon said federal grants for a transportation system should be available in four
years. It was stated that a beach parking garage must be constructed before the Memorial
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Causeway Bridge is completed. Mr. Siemon said the City Commission had asked staff only to
pursue the Pier 60 plus site for a parking garage. The property owner is not cooperative. He
will present a proposal for beach parking garages before the end of the year. Mr. Siemon
expressed confidence that a beach parking garage would be completed before the new bridge.
CLK CITY CLERK
Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority - 1 appointment
Commissioner Clark’s current term on the Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority Board of
Directors expires September 30, 2000. The board meets on the fourth Wednesday of the
month at 9:00 a.m.
Consensus was to reappoint Commissioner Clark to serve on the Pinellas Suncoast
Transit Authority Board of Directors for the term October 1, 2000 to September 30, 2003.
Long Center Board of Directors - 1 appointment
Commissioner Hooper’s current term on the Long Center Board of Directors expires
September 30, 2000. Scott Tyler is the City’s other representative on this board. City
representatives are not required to be commission members. The board meets on the fourth
Tuesday, every other month, at 7:30 a.m.
Consensus was to reappoint Commissioner Hooper to the Long Center Board of
Directors for the term October 1, 2000 to September 30, 2003.
Long Center Foundation Board of Trustees - 1 appointment
Commissioner Johnson’s current term on the Long Center Foundation Board of
Trustees expires September 30, 2000. Candace Gardner is the City’s other representative on
this board. City representatives are not required to be commission members. The board
meets on the fourth Thursday, every other month, at 4:30 p.m.
Consensus was to reappoint Commissioner Johnson to the Long Center Foundation
Board of Trustees for the term October 1, 2000 to September 30, 2003.
CA LEGAL DEPARTMENT
Second Reading Ordinances
Ord. #6595-00
- Amendments to Community Development Code
Assistant Planning Director Cyndi Hardin reviewed proposed amendments related to
monument signs, temporary yard signs, and parking on the grass. A separate section
addresses political signs. The CDB (Community Development Board) recommended allowing
parking for one vehicle or boat adjacent to the driveway with access via the driveway, with
neighbors or CRT (Community Response Team) members reporting problems. As parking on
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the grass destroys ground cover, Development Services Director Jeff Kronschnabl
recommended requiring installation of appropriate ground cover. He supported CDB
recommendations. Staff will provide brochures when educating neighborhoods.
Consensus was to accept CDB recommendations related to parking on the grass.
Agreements, Deeds and Easements
General Warranty Deed - conveying E18 feet of Bluff View Court, Lots 1, 7, 9, 11, 13, 15, 17,
Morton Plant
19, & 20, for additional right-of-way for Reynolds Avenue to widen roadway (
Hospital Association, Inc.
)
The City Attorney will report on the proposed use of the expansion.
Other City Attorney Items
American Infoage LLC
In her September 5, 2000 memorandum, the City Attorney reported the City had
received the Final Order regarding American Infoage, LLC vs. the City – DOAH Case 00-0999.
The order reverses the CDB’s decision to deny approval for a telecommunications tower at
505 Virginia Lane. The decision approved the application and did not impose any conditions
recommended by staff or adopted by the board. The City could file a Petition for Certiorari in
Circuit Court within 30 days. The Circuit court would conduct a review of the record.
Consensus was to appeal the ruling.
Other Commission Action
Commissioner Hooper questioned the cost of the downtown pond. Ms. Arasteh
estimated the project will cost $10-million.
Commissioner Johnson said Luby’s on Gulf-to-Bay Boulevard is closing do to a lack of
access and the City did not cooperate with the business regarding this issue.
Mayor Aungst requested staff report on the roundabout accident rate for August 2000.
Adjourn
The meeting adjourned at 12:49 p.m.
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