04/14/2008
COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY
AGENDA
Location: Council Chambers - City Hall
Date: 4/14/2008- 1 :30 PM
1. Call to Order
2. Approval of Minutes
2.1 Approve the minutes of the March 17, 2008 CRA meeting as submitted in written summation by the City
Clerk.
~ Attachments
3. CRA Items
3.1 Approve the East Gateway District Five-Year Action Program and FY 07-09 Implementation Work Plan.
~ Attachments
4. Other Business
5. Adjourn
Meeting Date:4/14/2008
Community Redevelopment
Agency Agenda
Council Chambers - City Hall
SUBJECT / RECOMMENDATION:
Approve the minutes of the March 17, 2008 CRA meeting as submitted in written summation by the City Clerk.
SUMMARY:
Review Approval: 1) Clerk
Cover Memo
Item # 1
Attachment number 1
Page 1 of 3
COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY MEETING MINUTES
CITY OF CLEARWATER
March 17, 2008
unapproved
Present:
Frank Hibbard
Carlen Petersen
John Doran
George N. Cretekos
Paul Gibson
Also present:
William B. Horne II
Jill S. Silverboard
Rod Irwin
Pamela K. Akin
Cynthia E. Goudeau
Patricia O. Sullivan
Chair/CRA Trustee
CRA Trustee
CRA Trustee
CRA Trustee
CRA Trustee
City Manager
Assistant City Manager
Assistant City Manager/CRA Executive Director
City Attorney
City Clerk
Board Reporter
The Chair called the meeting to order at 1 :31 p.m. at City Hall.
To provide continuity for research, items are in agenda order although not
necessarily discussed in that order.
2 - Approval of Minutes
2.1 Approve the minutes of the March 3, 2008 CRA meetinQ as submitted in written summation
bv the City Clerk.
Trustee Petersen moved to approve the minutes of the Community Redevelopment
Agency meeting of March 3, 2008, as recorded and submitted in written summation by the City
Clerk to each Trustee. The motion was duly seconded and carried unanimously.
3 - Community Redevelopment Agency Items:
3.1 Pursuant to CRA RFP 10-08, and the recommendation of the Selection Committee, award a
contract for Retail Recruitment and MarketinQ Services for Downtown Clearwater to
ERA/Downtown Works of WashinQton, D.C. in the amount of $ 145,000, plus out-of-pocket
expenses not to exceed $20,000, and authorize the Executive Director to execute the Contract
for Services on behalf of the CRA.
On January 14, 2008, the Clearwater CRA (Community Redevelopment Agency)
approved the release of a RFP (Request for Proposals) for retail recruitment and marketing
services for the Cleveland Street District. The objective of these services is to support and
enhance the existing retail base within the Cleveland Street District.
Specifically, the RFP delineates the following services to be provided by the consultant:
1) Develop a Strategy for Retail Recruitment and Repopulation of the retail spaces in the
Cleveland Street District, consistent with the "Cafe Society" vision and market characteristics; 2)
Develop a marketing and leasing plan to implement the retail strategy; and 3) Assist and
counsel the CRA with retail contacts and negotiations with property owners/retail prospects.
Community Redevelopment Agency 2008-03-17
1
Item # 1
Attachment number 1
Page 2 of 3
These services will support the overall strategy for downtown revitalization, which is: 1)
implement infrastructure improvements; 2) attract residential development; and 3) create a
"destination." The RFP marks the next step in the CRA's program for downtown revitalization
which to-date has included the Downtown Market Study, Fayade Design Analysis creating the
"Cafe Society," revised Fayade Improvement Program and Sidewalk Furniture Grant Program,
and Downtown Branding.
Proposals were sought from qualified firms with relevant expertise within downtown/
urban revitalization districts. Approximately 20 such firms were mailed the RFP, as well as the
RFP being posted on the International Downtown Association's Web site on January 23,2008,
and the City of Clearwater's Web site on January 15, 2008. In addition, the RFP was advertised
in the St. Petersburg Times on January 21, 2008.
By the February 13, 2008, RFP deadline, seven firms responded: 1) Thomas Point
Associates, Inc. (Annapolis, Maryland); 2) Urban Marketing Collaborative (Toronto, Ontario); 3)
ERA/Downtown Works (Washington, D.C.); 4) Strategonomic Global Network (Frederick, MD);
5) H. Blount Hunter (Norfolk, VA); 6) Buxton Community 10 (Fort Worth, TX); and 7) Talbot
(Toronto, Ontario).
On February 22,2008, a Selection Committee met to assess the written proposals to
select the firms that most closely met the objectives of the CRA as delineated in the RFP. The
selection criteria used were the following: 1) Understanding of issues and approach sought in
the Cleveland Street engagement and 2) Directly related qualifications and experience in the
type of retail services delineated in the RFP, and particularly, in urban redevelopment
environments. The Selection Committee consisted of: 1) Rod Irwin, CRA Executive Director; 2)
Geraldine Campos Lopez, Director, Economic Development and Housing; 3) Courtney Orr,
Downtown Manager; and 4) Carol Warren, Director, Commercial Sales, Colliers Arnold.
The Selection Committee short-listed three proposals, which best met the selection
criteria, based upon response to the RFP. The selected firms were invited for oral presentations
on March 6, 2008, to further demonstrate their qualifications to the Selection Committee. The
firms invited included: 1) Economics Research Associates/UrbanWorks, Washington, D. C.; 2)
Thomas Point Associates, Inc., Annapolis, Md.; and 3) Urban Marketing Collaborative, Toronto,
Ontario, Canada. Subsequent to the interviews, and after further due diligence and clarification,
the Selection Committee recommended that the CRA award a contract to ERA/UrbanWorks,
subject to successful negotiation of a contract for services consistent with their proposal.
The major determinants of the decision were: 1 Strong, current and successful
experience with the type of downtown retail strategy and recruitment effort envisioned for the
Cleveland Street District; 2) A practical, "hands on" approach to the engagement that minimizes
duplication of work already completed by the CRA; and 3) A strong emphasis on developing in-
house capacity for the client to facilitate continuation of a successful recruitment effort after the
conclusion of the consultant engagement. Staff recommends the CRA approve the
recommendation of the Selection Committee.
CRA (Community Redevelopment Agency) Executive Director Rod Irwin said the
company will use existing CRA research. ERA/Downtown Works' fee was reduced by $5,000,
as Downtown Manager Courtney Orr will serve as the project's recruitment coordinator.
Community Redevelopment Agency 2008-03-17
2
Item # 1
Attachment number 1
Page 3 of 3
Midge McCauley, principal of ERA/Downtown Works, said she will perform two-thirds of
the work on this contract, with her assistant and staff handling the rest. One staff member is
experienced with the historic tax credit process.
She reported the forgivable loan program, which worked well in downtown St. Louis, is
helpful in getting early deals done. Of more than 90 new downtown St. Louis businesses, no
more than eight received forgivable loans. She said the process is lengthy and could take a
year or two before the first deal is made. She said the location of parking should encourage
people to walk from one place to another.
Ms. McCauley said ERA/Downtown Works will determine which downtown property
owners support the program and then work with those landlords to populate stores. Others will
get on board once progress is evident. She said the optimal retail mix would be great local
tenants and a few national brands, with one-fourth to one-third being unique restaurants. She
said once people come to dine, other retail will come. Retail needs include home furnishings
and accessories, apparel, and services. She said a movie theater would not bring shoppers,
but may attract some diners. She said people are looking for small pedestrian-friendly streets.
She said a department store is an attribute for downtown. She said redevelopment of the
Harborview Center property could be tied in if it features street front uses.
Carol Warren was thanked for her efforts.
Trustee Doran moved that pursuant to CRA RFP 10-08, and the recommendation of the
Selection Committee, to award a contract for Retail Recruitment and Marketing Services for
Downtown Clearwater to ERA/Downtown Works of Washington, D.C. in the amount of
$145,000, plus out-of-pocket expenses not to exceed $20,000, and authorize the Executive
Director to execute the Contract for Services on behalf of the CRA. The motion was duly
seconded and carried unanimously.
4 - Other Business
5 - Adjourn
The meeting adjourned at 1 :58 p.m.
Chair
Community Redevelopment Agency
Attest:
City Clerk
Community Redevelopment Agency 2008-03-17
3
Item # 1
Meeting Date:4/14/2008
Community Redevelopment
Agency Agenda
Council Chambers - City Hall
SUBJECT / RECOMMENDATION:
Approve the East Gateway District Five-Year Action Program and FY 07-09 Implementation Work Plan.
SUMMARY:
The East Gateway District was established as part of the Community Redevelopment Area in 2002. In 2004, the East Gateway
Character District was created through amendments to the Clearwater Downtown Redevelopment Plan. In late 2005, the East Gateway
Task Force was formed to identify strategies to effect positive change in the neighborhood. The Task Force is comprised of City staff
from an array of departments. In 2006, the CRA initiated a neighborhood planning effort for the East Gateway District to create a
comprehensive, community-based action program.
With the help of a consultant, the Task Force convened focus groups and held neighborhood meetings in 2006 to solicit input from
residents, business owners, community leaders and social services organizations on neighborhood needs, values and preferences.
Through the process, goal statements and action items were formulated and serve as the basis for the East Gateway District Five-Year
Action Program.
The overarching goals of the program are to engage the community in its implementation; achieve neighborhood stability; establish a
unique and positive identity; and attract reinvestment in private property. The action items focus on five central themes that emerged
during public process-Safety and Security; Business Environment; Neighborhood Appearance; Economic Growth and Housing; and
Hispanic Community Integration.
In 2007, a neighborhood meeting was held to obtain feedback on the draft East Gateway District Five-Year Action Program. The
program's action items were refined based on further public and Task Force input.
The final step in the development of the program involved Task Force assessment of the action items relative to implementation (e.g.,
fiscal/operational impacts and timeframe for completion). The action items were then organized under one of two timeframes over the
five-year program period - Years 1 and 2 or Years 3, 4 and 5 - based primarily on neighborhood priorities, staff resources and funding
resources.
Relative to funding commitments for the East Gateway District Five- Year Action Program, this CRA action addresses resource
allocations for FY 07/08 and FY 08/09 action items only. Resource allocations for latter year action items (FY 09110 and FY 11/12) will
be addressed by the CRA on an annual basis in conjunction with the CRA budgeting process (beginning next fiscal year).
In most cases, the action items will be accomplished with existing operational resources and department budgets (see details in the
Impact Assessment & Tracking report). However, the following action items represent key cost items:
. Action Item S.l:Supplemental Police patrols (funding not identified)
. Action Item S.4:Streetlights (funding identified)
. Action Item N.2:Fa<.;ade and Building Lot Improvement Program (funding identified)
. Action Item N.6:"Five Points" Gateway Feature (funding identified)
. Action Item H.7:Multi-cultural Celebrations (funding identified)
Type:
Current Year Budget?:
Other
Yes
Budget Adjustment:
None
Budget Adjustment Comments:
Cover Memo
Current Year Cost:
Not to Exceed:
$31,500
Annual Operating Cost:
Total Cost:
o
$31,500
Item # 2
For Fiscal Year:
2007 to 2008
Appropration Code
0388-94849
Amount
$31,500
Appropriation Comment
Review Approval: 1) Office of Management and Budget 2) Legal 3) Clerk 4) City Manager 5) Clerk 6) City Manager 7) Clerk
Cover Memo
Item # 2
'" East Gateway District '"
Five-Year Action Program
FY 07108 -11/12
Community Redevelopment Agency
April 14, 2008 (Draft)
[This page intentionally left blank.]
Item # 2
East Gateway District Five-Year Action Program
7
OVERVIEW
EAST GATEWAY DiSTRiCT...............................................................................................................................................
History........................................................................................................................ ..............................................
Context .............................................................................................................................. ......................................
Challenges.................................................................................................................... ...........................................
Vision........................................................................................................................................................................
Guiding Principles..................................................................................................................... ...............................
ORGANiZATION.................................................................................................................. .............................................
Areas of Emphasis...................................................................................................................................................
Program Phases........................................................................................................................ ...............................
IMPLEMENTATION.............................................................................................................. ..............................................
Implementation Methods....................................................................................................... ...................................
Champions & Partners.............................................................................................................................................
Monitoring & Evaluation...........................................................................................................................................
SAFETY & SECURITY
BACKGROUND.................................................................................................................... .............................................
ACTION ITEMS......................................................................................................................... ........................................
BUSINESS ENVIRONMENT
BACKGROUND.................................................................................................................... .............................................
ACTION ITEMS......................................................................................................................... ........................................
NEIGHBORHOOD APPEARANCE
BACKGROUND.................................................................................................................... .............................................
ACTION ITEMS......................................................................................................................... ........................................
ECONOMIC GROWTH & HOUSING
Background..................................................................................................................... ..............................................
Action Items......................................................................................................................... .........................................
HISPANIC COMMUNITY INTEGRATION
Background..................................................................................................................... ..............................................
Action Items......................................................................................................................... .........................................
FUNDING
Schedule of Capital & Operational Costs (FY 07/08 - FY 11/12) .................................................................................
Apri/14, 2008 (DRAFT)
Item # 2
East Gateway District Five-Year Action Program
7
[This page intentionally left blank.]
Apri/14, 2008 (DRAFT)
Item # 2
East Gateway District Five-Year Action Program
EAST GATEWAY DISTRICT
In 2006, the City of Clearwater Community
Redevelopment Agency (CRA) initiated a
neighborhood planning effort for the East
Gateway District to create a comprehen-
sive, community development action
program. The overarching goals of the
action program are to:
· Engage residents, businesses and
other neighborhood interests in the
creation and implementation of the
action program;
· Achieve neighborhood stability by
addressing the social, economic and
physical issues that plague the area;
· Establish a unique and positive identity
that instills neighborhood pride and
sense of ownership; and
· Revitalize the neighborhood to attract
reinvestment in private property.
With significant input from neighborhood
residents, community leaders, business
owners and social services organizations,
the East Gateway Task Force developed
the East Gateway District Five- Year Action
Program.
HISTORY
In 2002, the 260-acre Clearwater CRA
District was expanded to encompass 201
acres that included the East Gateway
District, a distressed area that serves as
the primary gateway to Clearwater's
central business district and beaches. The
expansion was viewed as a strategic
approach to revitalizing the gateway,
leveraging public-private partnerships for
economic development and housing,
achieving stability in residential and
business areas and increasing
redevelopment potential.
Amendments to the Clearwater Downtown
Redevelopment Plan in 2004 established
Downtown Character Districts. The East
Gateway Character District sets forth the
vision and policies to govern new develop-
ment and redevelopment in the neighbor-
hood.
In late 2005, the East Gateway Task Force
was formed to identify a series of stra-
tegies to effect positive change in the
neighborhood. The Task Force is com-
prised of the staff from an array of City
departments.
A series of focus group meetings and
neighborhood events were held in 2006 to
gain an understanding of neighborhood
issues, values and preferences. Input
received from the public was documented
in a consultant's report in early 2007,
along with recommendations for an action
program.
The Task Force vetted the recommended
actions and developed the East Gateway
District Five- Year Action Program. The
Action Program was adopted by the CRA
at a public meeting on April _' 2008. A
community mee1
2008, to inform (
Action Program
The City of Clea
community in thE
enjoys diverse n
business district:
town, which ser\
business and cu
as a world-class
The East Gatew
located within CI
first-tier neighbo
shown in Figure
neighborhood is
land use pattern
interspersed witt
maintained prop
rentals, and und
strip commercial
scale profession
Catholic School
of East Gateway
and restaurant i~
the neighborhoo
The population (
persons (2000 (
races within the
(49%) and Slack
(10%). The Hisp
comprises roug~
population (up fr
Apri/14, 2008 (DRAFT)
Item # 2
East Gateway District Five-Year Action Program
Approximately 20% of the population is
under age 18 and 11 % are age 65 or
older. The age 22 to 49 range represents
50% of the total population. Of the neigh-
borhood's 1,264 occupied housing units,
approximately 77% are renter-occupied.
CHALLENGES
East Gateway's commercial sector is
burdened with a declining business base,
deteriorating infrastructure, a mismatch of
uses and vacant storefronts. Platting and
development practices from an earlier era
are nonconforming to current regulations,
creating widespread impediments to
redevelopment in the neighborhood.
Additional struggles stem from a negative
image associated with crime, problematic
uses that attract loitering and illicit
activities and a chronically homeless
population.
VISION
The East Gateway District is envisioned as
a vibrant, diverse neighborhood defined by
its unique mix of businesses, residential
areas and cultural backgrounds. Redeve-
lopment shall be compatible with the
established patterns, intensities and scale
of residential, retail and office land uses.
New institutional uses shall remain pri-
marily south of Cleveland Street. Urban
design, pedestrian-oriented development
and context-sensitive infrastructure shall
foster walkability and a sense of place.
GUIDING PRINCIPLES
· Build on neighborhood strengths -
repair, reconnect, regenerate
· "It takes a village" - Create synergies
through strategic partnerships
· Promote socio-economic diversity
through a mix of housing - both market
rate and affordable
· Value residences, shops and active
uses over automobile parking
· Make streets safe and attractive
places to walk, bike and meet
· Build cultural capacity to establish and
nurture a creative economy
· Value the triple bottom line - consider
the economy, environment and social
fabric in decision-making
ORGANIZATION
AREAS OF EMPHASIS
The Action Program is organized
according to the key themes that emerged
during community meetings in East
Gateway. These areas of emphasis are:
. Safety & Security
. Business Environment
. Neighborhood Appearance
. Economic Growth & Housing
. Hispanic Community Integration
Action items ha\i
two timeframes 1
the five-year pro
. Years 1 -2: F
. Years 3 - 5: F
For action items
challenging issul
or are highly de~
(real estate marl
achieve the desi
beyond the prog
rences will be a~
during the monit
process.
On an annual be
City budgeting p
the outer years (
to into Years 1-2
feasible.
IMPLEMENTA
Generally, the al
mentted in one (
ways:
· Project progra
Year Plan, Cit
Improvement~
· Project propm
CRA Six-Year
Apri/14, 2008 (DRAFT)
Item # 2
East Gateway District Five-Year Action Program
Capital Improvements Plan or City
budget
· Implementation of an existing or
proposed regulation, procedure or
program (including partnerships).
· Investigation that results in documented
findings, recommendations for
subsequent action(s) and cost
estimates, as appropriate.
A method of implementation has been
assigned to each action item as denoted
by the symbology defined in the
Implementation Methods box (right).
Cost and funding year for action items with
identified capital and/or operational costs
are shown in the Schedule of Capital &
Operational Costs on page 13.
Programming for the remaining action
items, as well as projects arising from
action items, will be determined in
conjunction with the City/CRA budgeting
process for FY 09/10- FY 11/12.
CHAMPIONS & PARTNERS
The East Gateway Task Force will
continue to provide leadership in the
implementation of the Action Program.
Task Force members are responsible for
the development of work plans for each
action item that their department will lead.
At minimum, these work plans will identify:
. Action item coordinator
. Methodology for completion
. Timeframe for completion
. Funding needs
. Funding source(s)
A method of accelerating the accomplish-
ment of East Gateway projects and pro-
grams involves establishing relationships
between neighborhood interests and the
City. Neighborhood interests may include
residents, property owners, fraternal
organizations, schools, religious organi-
zations and businesses. The assembled
talents of neighborhood volunteers and
City staff can go further toward improving
conditions in the neighborhood while
developing stronger relational foundations
integral to neighborhood success.
MONITORING & EVALUATION
Periodic monitoring and evaluation of the
East Gateway District Five-Year Action
Program will ensure that the neighborhood
vision is continually strived for and
neighborhood assets are protected and
enhanced. The CRA and East Gateway
Task Force will work to implement the
action items in a timely and efficient
manner, contingent upon funding
availability.
Action Program progress will be gauged
through the evaluation of performance
measures in an annual report to the CRA.
Mid-year progress will also be reported.
Apri/14, 2008 (DRAFT)
Item # 2
East Gateway District Five-Year Action Program
Figure 1
East Gateway Dis1
Apri/14, 2008 (DRAFT)
Item # 2
East Gateway District Five-Year Action Program
l
,
BACKGROUND
ISSUES
. Drugs
. Prostitution
. Trespassing
· Theft
. Speeding
. Littering
EXISTING PROGRAMS/AcCOMPLISHMENTS
. CHIP & Downtown Bike Team Patrols
(PO)
· Supplementary patrols in parks (PO)
. Monthly prostitution details (PO)
. Security training for businesses (PO)
. Streetlight inventory (ENG)
. Sidewalk inventory (ENG)
· Public outreach on BLUELlNE (PO)
DESIRED OUTCOMES BY 2012
. Sense of safety and security by all
members and visitors of the
neighborhood.
· Resident and business organizations
that promote awareness and activism
in solving neighborhood security
issues.
PERFORMANCE MEASURES
· Change in property values
. Change in ratio of owner-occupied to
renter-occupied dwellings
ACTION ITEMS
YEARS 1 - 2
IS)'11 To increase police presence, explore
the feasibility of supplemental police
patrols in East Gateway.
Lead Entity: PO
S.2 Add a Spanish response option to
the Police Department's automated non-
emergency phone line to increase
Spanish-speaking resident accessibility to
information and services.
Lead Entity: PO / PC
Is.1 Identify ways to resolve security and
traffic concerns voiced by residents on
Park Street.
Lead Entity: ONS / PO / ENG
r:IJ Install street lighting to eliminate
identified dark spots in East Gateway.
Lead Entity: ENG
S.5 Explore interest in a business crime
watch organization in East Gateway.
Lead Entities: PO / EOH
S.6 Develop a strategy to address the
incompatibility of the soup kitchen with
residential and business uses in East
Gateway (e.g., potential relocation).
Lead Entity: EOH
S.7 Review ne
infrastructure pn
relative to Crime
Environmental [
to promote safe
criminal activity.
Lead Entity: I
S.8 Identify be
crime watch org.
community inten
East Gateway.
Lead Entity: I
Is.1 Identify a ~
East Gateway P
highly visible ani
in the CHIP agrE
needs and poter
Lead Entity: I
CHIP Bike Team Pa
Apri/14, 2008 (DRAFT)
Item # 2
East Gateway District Five-Year Action Program
Busin
BACKGROUND
ISSUES
. Perception that City is "business
unfriendly" based on:
- Complicated/lengthy permitting
process
- Stringent sign, outdoor display and
parking regulations and code
enforcement
EXISTING PROGRAMS/ACCOMPLISHMENTS
. Doing Business in Clearwater guide
. Business-related counseling and
seminars (Library)
. Local meetings of Consejo Mexicano
of Tampa Bay (HOC)
People's Law Schoo/landlord/tenant
law seminar (Clearwater Bar Association)
DESIRED OUTCOMES BY 2012
. Elimination of barriers to quality
redevelopment
. Broader understanding of code
requirements by the community
. Public-private partnerships that
leverage resources to produce
catalysts for revitalization
PERFORMANCE MEASURES
. New approved site plans
. New business organizations
. Change in annual Code violations
ACTION ITEMS
YEARS 1 - 2
B.1.a Research the feasibility of assigning
a resource person in the Building Division
to assist applicants with projects in East
Gateway through the permitting process.
Lead Entity: DNS
B.1.b Provide quarterly briefings to "front
line" staff of the Planning Department and
Building Division and members of the
Building Plans Review Committee (BPRC)
to increase awareness of the East Gate-
way vision and forge effective partnerships
in the revitalization effort.
Lead Entities: EDH / PLN / DNS
B.2 Create and distribute an informa-
tional guide to navigating the City's sign
regulations.
Lead Entity: PLN / PC
B.3 Identify Code-related impediments to
redevelopment activity in East Gateway
(e.g., "25 percent rule," change of use
regulations, permitting process) and
remedies for eliminating impediments.
Lead Entity: PLN
B.4 Conduct regular business visits to
maintain a pulse on the East Gateway
business environment, and to offer timely
advocacy and other assistance for
business expansions and improvements.
Lead Entity: I
B.5 Partner wit
Association and
ganizations to h(
on landlords/ten
screening, renta
related-topics of
Lead Entity: I
B.6 Hold edUCe
standards and rE
oriented to the b
Lead Entity: I
B.7 Assist busi
establishment 01
Lead Entity: I
Business visit to PI
Gulf to Bay Boulev.
Apri/14, 2008 (DRAFT)
Item # 2
East Gateway District Five-Year Action Program
NeighbortJ
BACKGROUND
ISSUES
Unkempt business and residential
properties
Littering and trespassing
Lack of landscaping
Gaps in street lighting
Residents and businesses lack
understanding of City codes
Time required to resolve Code
violations
Constant presence of homeless in
the neighborhood
EXISTING PROGRAMS/AcCOMPLISHMENTS
· Code requirement for rental property
registration
. Code requirement for vacant building
appearance
. A 10- Year Plan to End Homelessness
in Pinellas County
· Environmental assessment of Car-Pro
DESIRED OUTCOMES BY 2012
. Positive identity that instills sense of
neighborhood pride and ownership
. Private investment in residential and
business areas
PERFORMANCE MEASURES
. Change in number of code violations
per year
ACTION ITEMS
YEARS 1 - 2
N.1 Develop an awareness campaign on
the availability of black barrels and
recycling bins to City solid waste
customers in East Gateway.
Lead Entity: SW / PC
~ Develop and promote a fagade and
building lot improvement program that
offers design and financial assistance to
eligible commercial properties in East
Gateway.
Lead Entity: EDH
N.3 Identify policies and programs
implemented in other communities that
have been successful in improving
aesthetic conditions in business and
residential areas.
Lead Entity: EDH
NA Enforce existing code requirements
that pertain to the appearance of vacant
buildings (e.g., prohibited coverings on
windows).
Lead Entity: DNS
m Install trash receptacles in the public
right-of-way in locations where littering is a
recurring problem.
Lead Entity: SW
m Design an(
gateway feature
intersection (Gul
Avenue and Cm
the identity of thl
Cleveland Stree"
Lead Entities
Unscreened dumps
Vacant storefront 11\
Inappropriate color
Apri/14, 2008 (DRAFT)
Item # 2
East Gateway District Five-Year Action Program
NeighbortJ
N.7 Coordinate with organizations that
provide services to the chronically
homeless to develop strategies to reduce
the significant physical impacts of this
population on residential and business
areas in East Gateway (e.g., task force).
Lead Entity: EDH / PD
N.B Identify the need for recreational
facilities in East Gateway or ways to make
playgrounds near East Gateway more
accessible to users.
Lead Entity: PR / ENG
Identify opportunities and costs for
creating more green space in East
Gateway (e.g., street rights-of-way,
community garden).
Lead Entities: PR / ENG
YEARS 3 - 5
N.10 Assist residents in establishing a
neighborhood association.
Lead Entity: DNS
~ Leverage funding to facilitate the
redevelopment of underutilized, blighted or
problematic properties in East Gateway to
end-uses that contribute to the East
Gateway vision.
Lead Entities: EDH / PLN
N.12 Identify opportunities for use of the
landscaped, triangular-shaped property
bounded by Gulf-to-Bay Drive and Hillcrest
Avenue.
Lead Entities: PR / EDH
Design Phase 3 of the Cleveland
Street Streetscape Project within East
Gateway.
Lead Entities: ENG / EDH / PR
Install a bus shelter on Gulf to Bay
Drive in East Gateway.
Lead Entities: ENG / EDH
Apri/14, 2008 (DRAFT)
Item # 2
East Gateway District Five-Year Action Program
Economic G
BACKGROUND
ISSUES
. Loss of businesses
· Decreased traffic volumes
· No new businesses opening in the
area
. Lack of affordable housing
. Unaccountable, absentee landlords
. Need for City to encourage new types
of businesses (e.g., retail, restaurants)
. Businesses and social services that
attract homeless to the area
EXISTING PROGRAMS/AcCOMPLISHMENTS
· Coordination with Clearwater Chamber
to target small business needs
. Residential rentals regulations (Code)
. Sought Low Income Tax Credits to
leverage affordable housing project
DESIRED OUTCOMES BY 2012
· Stabilized business/residential areas
. Elimination of problematic properties
. Public-private partnerships that
leverage resources to produce
catalysts for revitalization
PERFORMANCE MEASURES
. New jobs created
. New businesses opened
. New housing units built/rehabilitated
· Growth in property values
ACTION ITEMS
YEARS 1 - 2
E.1 Create and maintain an inventory of
vacant, underutilized and for-sale
properties in East Gateway for use in
identifying and promoting opportunities for
redevelopment (e.g., land assembly).
Lead Entity: EDH
E.2 Identify opportunities and constraints
relative to redevelopment in East Gateway
and develop recommendations to resolve
issues and capitalize on assets.
Lead Entities: EDH / PLN
E.3 Create and distribute brochure on
business-related programs available to
East Gateway businesses (also see H.1).
Lead Entity: EDH
EA Develop an outreach and
communications strategy to increase
resident, business and organization
involvement in the revitalization effort (to
include regular community meetings).
Lead Entities: EDH / DNS / PC
E.5 Prepare a comparative analysis of
code violations from 1999 to present and
identify methods to resolve issues (e.g.,
AbandonedNacant/Foreclosure Properties
Pilot Program).
Lead Entity: DNS
E.6 Create anc
brochure explair
to East Gateway
Lead Entity: I
E. 7 Explore the.
East Gateway fc
U.S. Green Builc
Neighborhood D
which recognize
that successfully
overall health, ni
quality of life of c
Lead Entity: I
Vacant, for-sale prc
Falfade improveme
1 Leadership in E
Design.
Apri/14, 2008 (DRAFT)
Item # 2
East Gateway District Five-Year Action Program
Economic G
E. 8 Publicize and encourage use of the
City's housing assistance programs to
increase the rate of homeownership in
East Gateway.
Lead Entities: EDH
YEARS 3 - 5
Conduct a district-wide parking study
to identify existing and long-term parking
needs and methods for accommodating
parking demand (e.g., centralized parking
and payment in lieu of program).
Lead Entities: EDH / PLN / ENG
fD Leverage funding to acquire and
rehabilitate apartment complexes in need
of repair for affordable housing.
Lead Entities: EDH / PLN
fD Explore the feasibility of a CRA low-
interest loan program to assist East
Gateway businesses with a variety of
desired activities.
Lead Entity: EDH
E.12 Establish partnerships with local
banks to facilitate conventional loans to
East Gateway businesses.
Lead Entities: EDH
E.13 Identify location(s) for catalytic,
mixed-use development on Cleveland
Street or Gulf to Bay Drive in East
Gateway.
Lead Entities: EDH
fD Develop a marketable image for East
Gateway that conveys the neighborhood's
cultural, creative and green character and
interests.
Lead Entities: EDH / PC
Conduct a market analysis that
identifies a viable business mix to support
resident and business needs in East
Gateway and the overall CRA District.
Develop an action and funding strategy for
business recruitment.
Lead Entities: EDH / PLN
E.16 Identify opportunities for
public/private partnerships and the
leveraging of organizational funds and
grants to attract arts/cultural groups to
East Gateway.
Lead Entities: EDH / PR
Apri/14, 2008 (DRAFT)
Item # 2
East Gateway District Five-Year Action Program
Hispanic Camm
BACKGROUND
ISSUES
. Real or perceived barriers to
integration into community life due to:
- Residency status
- Language
- Culture
EXISTING PROGRAMS/AcCOMPLISHMENTS
· Spanish communications on City
programs, services and events (PC)
. Spanish computer classes (Library)
. Business assistance outreach to
Hispanic businesses and interpreter
services (HOC)
DESIRED OUTCOMES BY 2012
. All segments of the East Gateway
population are encouraged to fully
participate in the duties and benefits of
neighborhood life
. Reservoirs of human potential, social
capital and distinct local cultures are
brought to bear in the neighborhood
revitalization effort.
PERFORMANCE MEASURES
. Community events of interest to
Hispanic community
. Programs serving needs of Hispanic
workforce
. Proarams oriented to Hisoanic families
ACTION ITEMS
YEARS 1 - 2
H.1 Coordinate with local and regional
Hispanic business organizations to identify
partnering opportunities that serve to
connect non-Hispanic businesses and
consumers with the Hispanic market.
Lead Entities: EDH
H.2 Translate the business programs
brochure (also see E.3) in Spanish and
distribute to Hispanic businesses.
Lead Entity: PC / EDH
H.3 Include the Hispanic media (print
and broadcast) as part of the public out-
reach and communications strategy for the
East Gateway revitalization effort (also see
EA).
Lead Entities: PC / EDH
HA Continue regular coordination with
East Gateway stakeholder organizations
active, such as YWCA Hispanic Outreach
Center, CHIP and religious organizations,
to promote broad and effective
participation in the revitalization effort.
Lead Entities: DNS / EDH
H.5 Continue to publicize Library
programs oriented to Hispanic adults, such
as computer classes and reading clubs, in
existing City Spanish publications and on
community bulletin boards.
Lead Entity: I
H.6 Continue tl
Instructor Progrc
Parks and RecrE
existing City Spc
community bulle
program offering
residents.
Lead Entity: I
IH.~ Hold multic
other special eVE
long-time East (
as newcomers t<
Lead Entities
H.B Assist the'
Center in relocaj
improve the accl
its client base.
Lead Entity: I
H.9 Hold ~
requirements ar
and Spanish.
Lead Entity: I
IH.1q Install a kic
high level of ped
stop/shelter) tha
mati on on currer
Lead Entity: I
Apri/14, 2008 (DRAFT)
Item # 2
East Gateway District Five-Year Action Program
[This page intentionally left blank.]
Apri/14, 2008 (DRAFT)
Item # 2
East Gateway District Five-Year Action Program
*
Schedule of Capital & Operational Costs (FY 07/08 - FY 11/12)
East Gateway District Five-Year Action Program
Emphasis Area Cost by Fiscal Year
Short Description (Escalated by 0.05 per year) TOI
/ Action Item FY 07/08 FY 08/09 FY 09/10 FY 10/11 FY 11/12
S~~f New Officers (2) - $127,444 $118,852 $124,794 $131,034 $f
5 5.3 Park St Solutions - - - - -
, Street Lighting $25,623 $6,552 $6,880 $6,224 $7,585 $
5.9 PO Substation - - - - -
B : Sign Regs Guide $500 - - - -
: Seminar Flyer - $1,050 - - -
SW Awareness Flyer $1,000
Fa98de Program $95,000 - - - - $
Trash Receptacles $600 - - - -
. Gateway Feature $1,500,000 - - - - $1,f
N N.9 Add Green Elements - - - - -
N.11 Problematic Motels - - - - -
N.13 Cleveland Streetscape - - - - -
N.14 Bus Shelter - - - - -
Business Brochure $500
, Meeting Flyers $1,000 $1,050 $1,103 $1,158 $1,216
E.9 Parking Strategy - - - - -
E E.10 Apartment Rehab - - - - -
E.11 Low Interest Loans - - - - -
E.14 Marketable Image - - - - -
E.15 Market Analysis - - - - -
mI~ Community Events $5,000 $5,150 $5,305 $5,464 $5,628 $
H H.10 Information Kiosk - - - - -
Total $1,629,223 $141,346 $132,346 $138,964 $145,912 $2,1
Emphasis Areas:
S - Safety & Security
B - Business Environment
N - Neighborhood Appearance
E - Economic Development & Housing
H - Hispanic Community Integration
Action Item Leqend:
. Programmed FY 07/08-FY 08/09 action item
FY 07/08-FY 08/09 action item not yet programmed
D FY 09/10- FY 11/12 action item to be addressed in
future budget year (cost & funding source).
* Notes:
- Schedule does not list action item
existing staff resources.
- Schedule reflects costs for FY 07,
subsequent year costs identified to
be vetted by the City/CRA for progl
Apri/14, 2008 (DRAFT)
Item # 2
East Gateway District Five-Year Action Program
[This page intentionally left blank.]
Apri/14, 2008 (DRAFT)
Item # 2
Impact Asses~
To increase police presence, explore the
feasibility of additional police patrols in Two additional officers on bicycle
East Gateway. Chief Klein PD YES patrol with varying schedules TBD
(new hires)
Add a Spanish response option to the
Police Department's automated non- PD Spanish language option on PD's
8.2 emergency phone line to increase Sgt. Greg Stewart PC NO non-emergency phone line CompletE
Spanish-speaking resident accessibility to (562-4252)
information and services.
Identify ways to resolve security and traffic
concerns voiced by residents on Park DNS Memorandum reporting findings,
Street. Paul Bertels ENG NO recommendations, fiscal impact and TBD
PD funding source, as applicable.
Install street lighting to eliminate identified
dark spots in East Gateway. Lighting inventory, cost estimate
Paul Bertels ENG YES and installation 4th Qtr C
Explore interest in a business crime watch
organization in East Gateway.
PD Meet with businesses to gauge
8.5 Sgt. Greg Stewart NO interest. With sufficient interest, TBD
EDH hold an organizational meeting.
Develop a strategy to address the Identify Pinellas organizations that
incompatibility of the soup kitchen with address/serve the homeless in 2nd Qtr (
residential and business uses in East Clearwater and attend at least of 3rd Qtr C
8.6 Gateway (e.g., potential relocation). Tammy Vrana EDH NO one organizational meeting per 4th Qtr C
quarter. Develop partnerships for 2009
strategy development and
implementation.
Review new development and
infrastructure projects in East Gateway
relative to Crime Prevention through
Environmental Design (CPTED) Gina Clayton PLN Establish procedure to ensure
guidelines to promote safe places that private and public projects are
8.7 discourage criminal activity. Mike Quillen ENG NO reviewed by City staff with CPTED 3rd Qtr C
Sgt. Stewart PD training.
April 14, 2008 (Draft)
Impact Asses~
ID# Action Item Action Item Participating Work Plan Deliverable Completi
Coordinator De artments Pre ared? Timefran
Research the feasibility of assigning a
resource person in the Building Division to Dedicated building division staff that
B.1 (a) assist applicants with projects in East James Wagner DNS NO will help potential East Gateway CompletE
Gateway through the permitting process. applicants in navigating the
permitting process.
Provide quarterly briefings to "front line"
staff of the Planning Department and
Building Division and members of the 2nd Qtr (
B.1 (b) Building Plans Review Committee (BPRC) Tammy Vrana EDH NO Quarterly briefings at staff and 3rd Qtr (
~ to Increase awareness of the East BPRC meetings 4th Qtr C
Gateway vision and forge effective 2009
partnerships in the revitalization effort.
Create and distribute an informational Brochure distributed at the Planning
guide to navigating the City's sign
regulations. PLN counter, BPRC meetings, with
B.2 Gina Clayton PC NO Business License applications and 4th Qtr C
during business visits for the fa<;ade
program.
Identify Code-related impediments to
redevelopment activity in East Gateway Memorandum reporting policy
B.3 (e.g., "25 percent rule," change of use Gina Clayton PLN NO implications, recommendations, 2nd Qtr (
regulations, permitting process) and fiscal impact and funding source, as
remedies for eliminating impediments. applicable.
Conduct regular business visits to
maintain a pulse on the East Gateway
B.4 business environment, and to offer timely Tammy Vrana EDH NO Four business visits per month Ongoin!
advocacy and other assistance for
business expansions and improvements.
Partner with the Clearwater Bar
Association and other non-profit legal
organizations to hold educational EDH Conduct one seminar per year as a
B.5 seminars on landlords/tenant rights, Tammy Vrana PC NO "stand alone" or in conjunction with 2nd Qtr (
tenant screening, rental contracts and regular community meetings.
other related-topics of interest.
Hold educational seminars on Code Conduct two seminars per year in
standards and regulations and programs DNS
B.6 oriented to the business community. Kevin Garriott EDH NO conjunction with regular community 4th Qtr C
meetings.
Item # 2
April 14, 2008 (Draft)
Impact Asses~
ID# Action Item Action Item Participating Work Plan Deliverable Completi
Coordinator De artments Pre ared? Timefran
Develop an awareness campaign on the
availability of black barrels and recycling SW Awareness campaign using door
N.1 bins to City solid waste customers in East Earl Gloster PC NO hangers or flyers distributed to East JUN 08
Gateway. Gateway homes and businesses.
Develop and promote a fa<;ade and Program Guide / Application / AlE
building lot improvement program that
offers design and financial assistance to Tammy Vrana EDH YES Design Services Solicitation / APR OE
eligible commercial properties in East Brochure / Business Visits
Identify policies and programs
implemented in other communities that White paper with findings,
N.3 have been successful in improving Tammy Vrana EDH NO recommendations, fiscal impact and AUGm
aesthetic conditions in business and funding source, as applicable.
residential areas.
Enforce existing code requirements that Ongoin!
pertain to the appearance of vacant Code enforcement activities + Enforceme
N.4 buildings (e.g., prohibited coverings on Dan Bates DNS NO sweep of East Gateway MAym
windows). (Sweep
Install trash receptacles in the public right-
of-way in locations where littering is a Earl Gloster SW NO Additional trash receptacles in litter FEB 08
recurring problem. hot spots.
Design and build a distinctive gateway
feature at the "Five Points" intersection Design Charrette JUN 08
(Gulf-to-Bay Drive, Highland Avenue and EDH Design Plans NOVm
Court Street) that celebrates the identity of Tammy Vrana ENG NO Construction Documents FEB OS
the East Gateway and Cleveland Street PR Construction NOV 1(
districts of the CRA.
Coordinate with organizations that provide Identify Pinellas organizations that
services to the chronically homeless to address/serve the homeless in 1st Qtr 0
develop strategies to reduce the EDH Clearwater and attend at least of 2nd Qtr (
N.7 significant physical impacts of this Tammy Vrana PD NO one organizational meeting each 3rd Qtr (
population on residential and business quarter. Develop partnerships for 4th Qtr C
areas in East Gateway. strategy development and 2009
implementation.
Identify the need for recreational facilities
in East Gateway or ways to make Analysis, findings and
N.8 playgrounds near East Gateway more Felicia Leonard PR NO recommendations including fiscal 3rd Qtr C
accessible to users. ENG impact and funding source, as
applicable.
Identify opportunities and costs for Analysis, findings and
creating more green space in East Felicia Leonard PR NO recommendations including fiscal 2nd Qtr (
Gateway (e.g., street rights-of-way, ENG impact and funding source, as
community garden). app
April 14, 2008 (Draft)
Impact Asses~
ID# Action Item Action Item Participating Work Plan Deliverable Completi
Coordinator De artments Pre ared? Timefran
Create and maintain an inventory of
vacant, underutilized and for-sale List of candidate properties for
E.1 properties in East Gateway for use in Justyna Buszewski EDH NO acquisition / assembly / On-goin
identifying and promoting opportunities for redevelopment potential
redevelopment (e.g., land assembly).
Identify opportunities and constraints
relative to redevelopment in East Gateway Assessment with findings,
E.2 and develop recommendations to resolve Tammy Vrana EDH NO recommendations, fiscal impact and 3rd Qtr C
issues and capitalize on assets. PLN funding source, as applicable.
Create and distribute brochure on
business-related programs available to
E.3 East Gateway businesses (also see H.1). Justyna Buszewski EDH NO Business programs brochure 3rd Qtr C
Develop an outreach and communications Strategy to identify community
strategy to increase resident, business EDH contacts, methods of outreach (e.g.,
E.4 and organization involvement in the Justyna Buszewski DNS YES newsletters) and frequency of public 3rd Qtr C
revitalization effort. PC meetings (2 per year).
Prepare a comparative analysis of code Assessment of code violation trends
violations from 1999 to present and and recommendations to resolve
E.5 identify methods to resolve issues (e.g., Dan Bates DNS NO issues, including costs and funding 4th Qtr C
Abandoned/Vacant/ Foreclosure
Properties Pilot Program). source.
Create and distribute a bilingual brochure Bilingual brochure distributed at
explaining landlord/tenant laws to East community meetings, during
E.6 Gateway residents and landlords. Tammy Vrana EDH NO Community Response Team visits, 1st Qtr 0
at EDH office and prior to related
seminars.
Explore the feasibility of positioning East
Gateway for certification under the U.S. Assessment of program
Green Building Council LEED for
Neighborhood Development program Gina Clayton PLN requirements as related to East
E.7 which recognizes development projects Ed Chesney ENG NO Gateway character and potential, 1st Qtr 0
that successfully protect and enhance the Tammy Vrana EDH including operational/hard costs and
overall health, natural environment and funding source, as appropriate.
quality of life of communities.
Publicize and encourage use of the City's
housing assistance programs to increase Distribution of existing City housing
E.8 the rate of homeownership in East Mike Holmes EDH NO brochure and one housing On-goin!
Gateway. presentation per year in conjunction 2nd Qtr (
with regular community meetings.
Item # 2
April 14, 2008 (Draft)
Impact Asses~
ID# Action Item Action Item Participating Work Plan Deliverable Completi
Coordinator De artments Pre ared? Timefran
Coordinate with local and regional
Hispanic business organizations to identify Identify organizations with chapters 3rd Qtr C
H.1 partnering opportunities that serve to Tammy Vrana EDH NO in Pinellas and attend one 4th Qtr C
connect non-Hispanic businesses and organizational meeting every 2009
consumers with the Hispanic market. quarter.
Translate the business programs brochure EDH
H.2 (referred to in E.3) in Spanish and Justyna Buszewski PC NO See E.3 deliverable 3rd Qtr C
distribute to Hispanic businesses.
Include the Hispanic media (print and
broadcast) as part of the public outreach PC
H.3 and communications strategy for the Joelle Castelli EDH NO See E.4 deliverable 3rd Qtr C
neighborhood revitalization effort (also see
E.4).
Continue regular coordination with East 1st Qtr 0
Gateway stakeholder organizations, such
as YWCA Hispanic Outreach Center, Becky Melendez DNS Attend CHIP Meetings 2nd Qtr (
H.4 CHIP and religious organizations, to Tammy Vrana EDH NO Meet with HOC Director quarterly 3rd Qtr C
promote broad and effective participation 4th Qtr C
in the revitalization effort. 2009
Continue to publicize Library programs Advertisement for programs in
oriented to Hispanic adults, such as 1st Qtr 0
computer classes, home buying seminars City's Hispanic newsletter Guia de 3rd Qtr C
H.5 and reading clubs, in existing City Spanish Joelle Castelli PC NO ~iversion and posted on 1st Qtr 0
publications and on community bulletin community bulletin boards in East 3rd Qtr C
boards. Gateway.
Publicize the Contract Instructor Program Advertisement of Contract Instructor
administered by the Parks and Recreation 1st Qtr 0
Department in existing City Spanish PR Program in City's Hispanic 3rd Qtr C
H.6 publications and on community bulletin Felicia Leonard PC NO newsletter Guia de ~iversion and 1st Qtr 0
boards to expand program offerings of posted on community bulletin 3rd Qtr C
interest to Hispanic residents. boards in East Gateway.
Hold multicultural celebrations and other
special events that strive to include long- EDH Organize and hold at least one 2008
time East Gateway residents as well as Tammy Vrana PR NO event per year 2009
newcomers to the neighborhood. DNS
Assist the YWCA Hispanic Outreach Regular communications wI
H.8 Center in relocating to East Gateway to Tammy Vrana EDH NO property owners, businesses & 2009
improve the accessibility of the Center to organizations to identify
its client base. opportunities.
Provide information to the Hispanic Brochure distributed during
business community on Code EDH business visits, at community
H.9 requirements. Tammy Vrana DNS NO meetings and in the Planning 1st Qtr 0
PD (HOC) Department and Building Division.
April 14, 2008 (Draft)
Impact Asses~
Item # 2
April 14, 2008 (Draft)