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03/11/1992 (2) .' .. \." " .: .' ..' . . '. ., .' . . ..... ~.. ' , . ' . " ~ / ,. ( L"J . 'I~ \l" ,) /i., (.:,. \~ - .... (i.- - 'I' ~ ' .. f ~ .',. . ~{~~.' .,~' EAC A.genda CITY OF CLLEARWATER ENVIRONMENTAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE " " March 1Ir 1992 @ 4PM I . Routine Agenda... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . _. . . Hunt 1. Minutes Approval 2. Confirm Agenda II. Public Works Agenda 1. ROll tine Items.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . Miller a. Commission Actions b. Cliff Stevens Park c. Waste Oil Contamination Event d. Wetland Clearing Issue . . 2. Special Items a. Recycling Discussion... ..... ..p.. .Rice b, TBNEP Eco-Neighborhood progran..Niller III . Subcommittee St?-'tus Reports 1. Wa stewa ter Reuse. , . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . _ . . Davis 2. Watershed Management... ....DeB~a~er!Mil1er 3. Publicity. .... ..... .... ..... ..... ...Garris 4. Regulatory & Enforcement.... ..... ... .Foley 5. Organization/Budget. . . . . . . . . . . . . . ... Jonson IV. Old Business 1. Hembership Vacancy............... ..... .Rice 2. Six Month Agenda Authorization... ..... .Hunt V. New Business 1. Subcommittee Volunteers 2. Other VI. Adjourn @ 6:30pm. . '):, " Aiii,~" ~~i ~C'. 1:' " i' I I { , ENVIRONMENTAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE Meeting Date: In o/l,.vlu (I ( I r f:L Attendees: . GTu r?.. ;t-S pc . ,1J;hM-4 ~~ I31/;z5ObdeJ~ ~~ ( k;#/<< / A.~ tf7.ft--t< L 2~<.A/. c::2b- ~ P L r L!J' <.. Ie l/ TiC, ((, fr ~" '. ) -,1\.- J f 7~fJ1fltl B,ay /J II J ~-h JJI1.?ll 7'5 f; ( /.i /(" I f-Ir:nr~ CU7Y/ C t ,'-( 0 F C L. G 1117.. r.,J /-) -, 6 Je fJ d f3LI c.. W 0 I?.J<.S } - .a<:JJ7 (~ -.Ul1"'E) ~ /J~- ./C,t-~t-<-'~~'_1V' ,a! MJtvv (~~.'t.t!-t-L''L'-- ..J.-/' G _V'-'\.-'o CiJ.........~~~t- / " '. I,' ..'~ : ~ ..) .' J ','. '. . . '. ..: . .' . , ". ,:' .;)/.~~...~~,::.... ";:"'~.~;~~.~:;:\:." .{..:.~~::'>.(t"l',(.~"~ij:~:~/ ~".;:.t'~~' ~~l.,'''~ .;-.. .d ~'-' f\' 1'>"4... 1':-., " 1/.. -, 1 l \ " Minutes ENVIRONMENTAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE February 12, 1992 Members Present: Chairman Mr. Hunt, Ms. Donovan, Ms. Garris, Messrs. Jonson, DeBlaker, Foley, Reuter, Davis IrI. Member Absent: Mr. Perry Also Present: T. H. Miller, Assistant Director / Environmental; I<athy Rice, Deputy City Manager; Mark Roether, Nursery Supt., Parks & Recreation; Wes Clarke, resident and Viola Wasilewski Recording Secretary. The meeting was called to order at 4:00 P.M. by the Chairman, Mr. Hunt, in Conference Room B at the City Hall Annex on February 8, 1992. I . ROlJTrNE AGENDA A. REVIEW MINUTES FOR APPROVAL Motion made by Mr. Davis to approve minutes of January 8, 1991 as submitted. Motion was seconded and unanimously approved. B. CONFrRMING AGENDA. As no corrections or additions were made to the agenda, it was accepted as presented. II. PUBLIC WORKS AGENDA A. ROUTINE ITEMS Mr. Miller informed cornmi ttee members that the Environmental Reinspection Program has been initiated. An outline of this program appeared in the St. Petersburg Times. Commercial property owners of Clearwater in "Phase A" have received their letters. " ~..'.,'..., "'. . :" 'o", .... ;. '..' . '. . :.. '.' " ..'..... .' .: .','. ." . ,,'.... ' : ..:. .',~ l ....: "., " t.. ~~... Mr. Hunt inquired as to the present status of Stevenson Creek in Phase I. Mr. Miller informed the members that Phase I permitting has been completed and construction has begun. Work is presently underway at Cleveland Bridge and in the mi tigation area. Some problems had occurred at the onset of construction, due in large part to the former contractor; but conditions are presently under proper supervision, and minimum difficulties expected with the new contractor. Phase II Stevenson Creek permits have been submitted, and Mr. Miller explained some of the delays that are presently being experienced and reasons for such delays. A draft response to the Florida Department of Environmental Regulation's 30 day letter is now being reviewed by staff. B. WEED REMOVAJ~ Mr. Miller described the water system of Cliff Stevenson Park. He explained that the main purpose of the weed control program is not to kill emergent or planted vegetation, but to control floating vegetation to insure proper drainage. Citizen concern's have been expressed over the inadvertent elimination of native shore line vegetation. This area is usually sprayed on a regular basis, but because of citizens concern, no chemical applications were applied since the first of September, and as a result had become overgrown. Mr. Miller explained that precautions are used by the spraying crew. Mr. Mark Roether, City Nursery Superintendent also gave some detail as to why the present conditions exists and expressed his views on the situation. The county has mechanical harvesting equipment, and stated that they would be willing to come in on a one time basis to assist with this problem. A cost comparison was presented to the committee members on mechanical versus chemical weed removal, emphasizing that the fee was only for removal of present weed problems. A discussion ensued as to other possible means of removal and problems that could be encountered. Some discussion was held on re-vegetating this area. Mr. Wes Clarke, recommendations and had received from a this system. Mr. Clarke emphasized that the effect on the environment at the present time and in the future must be taken into consideration. Mr. Roether suggested that a system be eventually looked into that would totally reduce or lower chemical usage by an aquascape planting program to eliminate herbicide use. a resident of the area, presented his options. Mr. Clarke shared the information he mechanical contractor and the capabilities of Following lengthy discussion on this subject, motion was made by Mr. Foley that the City Staff take steps to maintain aquatics in Cliff Stevens park in a way that will reduce or eliminate chemical spraying and ~m the ecology. Ms. Donovan seconded motion. 11"\ P1(,JJ if. .. ~ I . # .::,.. .,:........, ,:: ..,:..... .:.'..;..:.<:...... :':0\ '::.", '.: ..':..'...:.....'.:..::.... -;.:,' ,.<:"<.:..' ,.'., ." ,:...:....,:. ,~.; .<:~..,: ,'.'.... :...,.': ',' '...... ,.:'..... . ." '. ~, 1 .: , ,~ '. . '. '. . 'I I .' . . . , '. , . . . . . .~, .' , . .' ' , .' '.,', dUiY .~'J. ~- ' (' , Five in favor, three against, motion carried. III. SUBCOMMITTEE STATUS REPORTS A. Wastewater Reuse Mr. Davis stated that a meeting was held by the subcommittee with Mr. Torn Burke of Camp Dresser & McKee, where the plan was explained to them. Call to action was that an amendment was needed subject to public review at this point to take advantage of financial benef its presently available. The Environmental Advisory Committee (EAC) subcommittee recommended that the City proceed with the plan to expand the reclaimed water system as proposed. Mr. Davis gave a brief review of some of the concerns, such as fees, advantages and marketability. Recycled water used for irrigation purposes would addresses about 35% of water usage in Pinellas County. A short discussion followed. Motion was to accept Mr. Davis' memo to Commissioners, as submitted to the committee, with the exception of changing subcommittee to read Environmental Advisory Committee. Motion seconded by Ann Garris. Motion passed unanimously. B. Watershed Management Subcommittee Mr. Hunt distributed information related to this agenda item, and stated that the Watershed Subcommittee had conducted meetings. The City Commission had asked if the EAC endorsed the remainder of the Comprehensive Watershed Management Contract. The motion presented by Mr. Hunt was that the EAC recommends that the City Commission approve the remainder of the Watershed Management Contract. Mr. Hunt stated that Mr. DeBlaker, as a member of the Subcommittee, recommended that the City go forward with the contract, and Mr. Hunt concurred. A discussion followed and the motion passed unanimously. c. Organization Mr. Jonson stated there was no status report on organization. IV. OLD BUSINESS A. Membership Vacancy Mr. Miller stated that the City Clerk's office indicated that since the resigned member was appointed by the. Mayor, the Mayor would make that decision. Ms. Rice advised that the Mayor has been out of town and is presently working upon selecting a member for that position. 3 . . .'.. ' " " . " .' ,.,', . . ,. . ",'" ,. ',,' ," . r filiii;' ~..,: f;' . B. EAC Action Plan for FY 1992 Mr. Hunt referenced the draft letter attached to the January minutes. Mr. Hunt stated that the Committee needed to develop an Action Plan for FY 1992, in an effort to improve the usefulness of an Environmental Advisory Committee. The draft letter outlined three primary objectives. The first objective proposed was presented as a statement that the City of Clearwater's Environmental program was well directed and that the Environmental Advisory Committee should assist in increasing public awareness. The Motion was made by Mr. Hunt, and seconded by Ms. Garris to enhance the committee's publicity contributions. Ms. Garris volunteered to advance this effort. Motion passed unanimously and Ms. Garris's offer was acknowledged. The second objective proposed active committee involvement in the implementation of Environmental project work efforts. Mr. Hunt commented that if this were to be acceptable to all members as a new work area, he would expect a volunteer to oversee this activity. The volunteer would be expected to oversee the implementation and successful conclusion of the activity. Discussion followed with at least one committee member questioning the focus of the effort as being outside the focus of the committee. It was the general consensus of the Committee that time would be better spent by raising environmental awareness among City residents. (Objective 1) ThiJ:dly, the Committee v'lill continue to provide administrative oversight of City environmental programs. Mr. Hunt also requested that everyone, including City Staff consider additional projects that might be undertaken by the EAC for the next meeting as well, I. , v. NEW BUSINESS Recommendations were made for commission consideration (see attached February 15 memo) confirming subcommittee recommendations. Wa'tershed Management contract reconnnenda tions Wastewater Recommendations C. Long 'l'erm Agenda Discussion followed regarding Long Range Projects. Members to be prepared at next meeting to submit additional suggestions. 4 "' ./....' 1 "", , . ~; . ':'.: <'l~.~i-; .: .;.,:.~\..t a ~] dr' ~t' . Mr. Foley stated he believes the EAC should be aware of what is occurring on the Bluff issue. Inquiring was made as to tree removal on median. Mr. Miller stated he would look into the matter. The next meeting was scheduled for March 11, 1992 at 4:00 PM. Motion was made for adjournment at 6:30 by Mr. Hunt, Ms. A. Garris seconded motion. Respectfully submitted by Viola Wasilewski, Staff Assistant II. EAC29.env I . . . " . . \ . '. .,...... " . .. ',' . 'I . . . :. . . , .' .' .". . " ..'.' ' . ',.' ~,.." cP., l}t~ ...;:.t, #'. ~. 15 February 1'3'32 Page 1 Of 3 " TO: Clearwater City Commission via: T. H. Miller, Asst.Director PW/Environmental FROM: Env:il".;'.mrnmntal ?klvisory Committee CEAC) SUBJECT: EAC actions at 12 Feb 92 meeting. 1. Thp- E(~C rc~c(:.,n(flr?nd5 that -the City Cotntnissil:ln apprl:,ve the I" ema:i rldl:~l" Q f t t-)c.:~ Comp)' l~h (?on s i ve Wat el~ 5 hed Management Master Plan contractual authorization. 10 2. The EAC: l"E~conHnG:~ncls that the City of CleaY"\>.1ater pY"clI:eed \oJ i .\; II t 11 f:? 111 i::\ n s toe :q) and the )" eel a i 1m:? d \oJ ate r s y s t em t 1:1 reI i.r.~Vf~ thf';) irnp(~nding severe prc,blerns assclI: iated wi.th p LIInp i n 9 IN a t P-l" '=' lxl; 0 f t 1.1 e un d fo? r 9 r .:. Ll n d a q Lli f e 1'" . 3 . T h .2 E () C I" fE! (; 0:. If\ rn e n tI s t h c:\ t the C i t Y t a k est e pst 1:1 m a i n t a i n aquatics in Cliff Stevens Park in a manner other than I: h e III i .: i:.i 1 5 P I" [). Y i n 9 an cI n .:' t h arm f Lll t '=1 the e.: 1:.1.:1 9 y . 4. The EAC plans to inC)'f:?aSf? its efforts 'tCI raise the environmental B\>.1areness of the community. 5. The EAC endorses recent Commission initiation of the Environmental Re-lnspection Regulatory Enforcement Program and adoption of watering restrictions. 6. The EAC is reviewing its near term agenda emphasis plans and (~Ill: ,:,ur ag(?s t 11 E~ C: it y Cornm is!:; i ,:.n t;o i dent if Y spel: i f i I: areas of concern in which EAC review may be beneficial to Cornmission assessments and decisions. 7. Supportive summary information appears in attachment A. Subst"ntial details .:"n lJe P~l~ Har ,:11 d W. Hunt EAC: Ch a i I" man Atta.:hment 15 Feb 1 '3'32 P ag e 2 .:. f 3 JJ.&.".. , \;,~.:'; l~" ATTACHMENT A 1. The EAC recommends that the City Commission approve the remainder of the Compyehensive Watershed Management Master Plan contractual authoriza~ion_ The EAC has reviewed the Comprehensive Storm Water and Watershed Management Master Plan proposal submitted by the KEA/Weston Team and compayed that plan with the City of Clearwater Comprehensive Plan. The EAC has concluded that the Comprehensive Stoym ~ater and Watershed Management Mastel" Plan propo~i<3.l t:ove1"S all l"elev<"::'\Ilt elements of the City compl"(.:!hensive F'li::\II. The r~AC ha~.> been assured that City Staff will perform as many elements of the NPDES contract as 'fe'~<:::ible tl-'lc:>l"E.~I'')v ]"')('.1lr i r'CI ,'.,',t::tc: 't,." I-:ity ta'lrJaypys Simil :.\1" <:;\ :;:) , ,-_ _ ._ J ~ I~. Y h.. .. I ~':': _._ _.,...':} _... c; ., ,_ _ . \ .. c: City Stt:\ff 1~evie',.,I~5 ~.;ill be cc,nducted on the balance of th~ ': clnt 1" .:\.: t . 2. The EAC recommends that the City of Clearwater proceed with the plans to expand the reclaimed yater system to relieve the impending severe problems associated with pumping water aut of the underground aquifer. There are financial benefits to proceeding now because of D.E.R. low interest loan approvals and S.W.F.W.M.D. Grants in place for this fiscal year. The E(~C Lll'"gef5 the Comrnif::,f:"i:i.oners to fami lc=tl" ize thems;elves with St. Petersbuyg Beach1s plans to implement their system. The EAC believes the St. Petersburg approach effectively r;Ul::.:;wel' ~5 t h (.;.? may h;?t in 9 P rob 1 em~"5 0 f 1" el: I aimed wa t ey and l"esolves thf?:l 1If!lI::tndato1ry Ol~ volunta1ry" question. 3. The EAC recommends that the City take steps to maintain aquatics in Cliff Stevens Park in a manner other than chemical spraying and not harmful to the ecology. The EAC envisions an opportunity for the City of Clearwater to establ ish a model program demonstrating the application of environmentally suitable procedures for the benefit of its citizens. The problem of controlling undesirable aquatic g~owth will arise at many of the City' 5 retention ponds and creeks. A solution to this widespread problem .is needed. Advantage should be taken of the no-cost offer by the county to perform an initial clean-up of the current pl'oblem. The additional cost of manual weed removal (vs chemical) in thf? futU1....f::? ~~;hoLlld be establ ished and weighed in the light of environmental enhancement. Commission authorization of Clearwater City Staff leadership in addressing this problem is encouraged. Cliff Stevens Park can be returned to a scenic and enjoyable attraction. 15 Feb 1':3'32 Page 3 .:. f 3 to/;.., l ,... 4. The EAC plans to increase its efforts to raise the environmenta1 awareness of the community. The EAC believes the City of Clearwater Environmental Program is well directed and that its continued effective- ness can be further enhanced through increased public awareness. Accordingly, the EAC will strive to assist in publicizing these excellent ongoing efforts in order to achieve increased community participation in city sponsored activities and support for required funding actions. The EAC will participate in and support City sponsored programs and public meetings directed at increased community awareness of environmental programs such as the watershed management i:\ncl 1'. t")C 1 aimed '..oJat f:!l~ i ~;Sl~les l~ e.: ant I y I'" BV i ewed. The EAC proposes to stress provision of news articles' and similar widely distributed information channels (utility bills, city activity reports etc.) to enhance publicity. Commendable, recent, city staff activities to cite include: -The recently adopted environmental reinspect ion plan. -Inclusion of environmental considerations in building and impr .:.vernf.~nt p (=rfn it Yl:?qu i r ement s. -Currently applicable rules on tyimming mangroves. -Pursuit of compensation from violators of regulations. -Satisfactory City/Developer tree replacement accomodation. -Accomodation of identified/funded County needs to resolv~ Lake Chataqua contamination problems as applicable. The E A C (= ~/~ P e C t s t c. ': on tin I.Jr~ t c. p r c. v ide ad m i n i s t rat i ve oversight of objectives/approaches and budgets of City environmental programs. '. 1\1. c. 1~) ApY" 13 May 1 (I ,-Tun 15 SLll 12 (-~Llg .:) ~3 e p 14 Oct 1:\. N.:,v tl' t"'. 1 5 r e b r Ll a r y 1 '3':;1 2 LONG TERM AGENDA (7 Mos).... . Candidates???? County/City NPDES Effort Coordination Community awareness enhancement plans..? Beautification/StY"eet trees/Billboards.? C 1 eaY" wa t er HI3, r bor ',,' (Clean-up/Causeway Flush/Dunedin Pass/) Regulatory Enforcement Recommendations..? compliance actions/building code actions Watershed Management Status update.. .....7 (AlIens Creek / Alligator Creek) Reclaimed water status update...? QLlest i.:.nail"e for EAC: accompl ishments/plans (Response due by 25 Sept) Student participation plan. ....?, i Accomplishments Review / Prelim '32/93 Plans Nominations for '92/93 Officers Election of OfficeY"s/Confirm continuation/emphasis Membership....term extensions/replacements. ..? ; ....,': ,I.. . . ..~' ,:1,' .. r~' \ , /' ( :J--/'L_~ 2. r I j I TO: , EAC Members ~~eclaimed Water Subco~ittee ,{V(r G. Davis III Chairman Meeting with camp Dresser & McKee Thursday January 30, 1992 IN ATTENDANCE: Mssrs. Davis, Perry, Rueter, Hunt & Ms. Donovan of EAC. Mssrs. Miller & Henderson of City staff. Mr. Burke of CMD FROM: SUBJECT: 11" l',.t,/ \ t \ IV The ~committee recommends that the City of Clearwater proceed with the plans to expand the reclaimed water system to relieve the impending severe problems associated with pumping water out of the underground aquifer.(( There are financial benefits to proceed now because of D.E.R. low interest loan approvals and S.W.F.W.M.D. Grants in place for. this fiscal year. We urge the Commissioners to familiarize th.emselves with sf. Petersburg Beach's plans to rollout their system. We feel it effectively answers th.e marketing problems of reclaimed water and resolves the "mandatory or voluntary" question. /V . , . I , .'. 'f ~':' ...1', I '. ~ : .' . . .': .,: " ,\.. . . , ......~. . . t. .' , t, '" . . . . ,;'. r' /' i ENVIRONMENTAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE Meeting Date: J~rt I .!.., /79' V Attendees: //7 r / I ~ ..... >" )A ;L )~ I' / ( " ~L.-'~ ---. . I (i/)7 ) JUt:. /~.J ~a2i.1 /~~e'. I ~>/ , ~~ ~~d~ "".', ~: ( .7 It.:,./ 5---' .' March 10, 1992 TO: Harold Hunt, Chairman Environmental Advisory Committee FROM: William C. Jonson SUBJECT: Organization Sub-Committee The Organization Sub-Committee of the Clearwater Environmental Advisory Committee met March 10, 1992 (Ann Garris, Tom Miller, and Bill Jonson). That meeting included the following discussions: 1. Committee focus and communication: There is apparently several different opinions relating to the purpose and scope of the committee. Several observations were made relating to this issue, but no conclusions were determined. The committee decided to met again March 31 and invite the committee Chairman and other members to this meeting. 2. Motions: There is concern that committee motions may not be clearly understood by all committee members. To insure this does not happen, we suggest that an overhead be tried to write the motions and project them fv:' all to see. 3. Minutes: Recommend all resolutions be incorporate in the official copy of the minutes or in an attachment distributed there with, ?"). " ,,'L . ~ C I T Y OF CLEARWATER . . Interdcpartment Correspondence Sheet TO: Mmk nocthcr, Nursery Superintendent FROM: ;;fJ/;Aom Millor, ^sst. Director of Public Works/Environmental cOPIEL7' Beam Wilson, Director of Parks & necrcCltion; William C. Bnker, Director Works; James Seymour, Pesticide Supervisor DATE: August 2f3, 1991 of Public i ~~'I SUfJJECT: Weed Control SprClY Proortlm EnvironnlCntal Hevicw and Recommendations By memorandum of July 22, 1991, YOll requested that Environmental Managenlent reviow the current weed control Sf Hay program and recommend .1l1Y Clppropriatc corrections thnt mtlY be necessary to abide by State Quidelines, You will recall tl1a t your need fOf our review was the rcst.llt or () citizen complaint, received on or <IbOllt July 15,1991, that criticized tile present City weed spray program associated witli the lake [It Cliff Stevens Park. I have completed a cursory review of the Parks and l1ecreation Departrnent Weed Control Spray Program and have found the program to be cOlIsis tent with State {Juidelines, policies, and federal chemical use guidelines, In addition, I h.lVe iderltified through discussions with you and other staff in I the program, a consistent opcratio/l<ll lInproach that is based in concern for the safely of City spniv crews as well as concern for the rrotection of City natural resources. I have not reviewed the program for consistency with appropriate trainin\l or licensure requirernents that may be imposed by state or federal agencies. That is an intern<ll matter morc appropriately reviewed by Departrnent management. BACKGROUND: The Environmental Protection Agency {[PAl docs flat have a specific program to regulate the use of chemicals in natural systems. Regulation in that reO<lrtl is left to individual sta,tos. However, the EPA does regulate the research anti developrnen t of chemicals for certain use to ensure that specific chemical products and their us()ge will not cause, either alone or in combination with other chemicals under normal or usual circumstances, any effect that might cause environmental pollution. The EPA provides specific use constraints on all chemical product labels. Correct application and use of these chemicals requires that trained personnel follow the chcmicallClbels for the products that are being ()pplied in natt/ral systems. ,The administration of a state aquiltic plant control program is authorized by the Florida Aquiltic Weed Control Act (Section 309.20, f..S.) and the r=lolida Nonindigenous Aquatic Plant Control Act (Section 369.22, F.S.). These Acts esttlblisll the right of the Florida Deptlrtrnent of Natural Resources to develop rules to administer a stote aquatic weed control program. The r10rida Dep<Jrtment of Natural Resources currentlv administers the AqUiltic F'lant Control Program through Chaptor 16C-20, F,A.C. rules and <In associated permit process. A ttClchcd is the rnost current copy of the FDNH rules for the administrlltioll of this prograrn for YOllf use (Exhibit Al. loypR) '. 4. Exhibit Care additionJI Emergent Vegotation Guidelines that should also be incorporated into the City spray program if not nlreuuy being considered, .. I Aquatic Weed Spray Program August 28, 1991 Page 2 FINDINGS AND RECOMMEN,DATIONS: . There are essentially two criteria that the city proor,lIn needs to remnin sensitive to when administering our weed spray control program: 1. the size of the water body where weed control sprayinn is required. 2. the location of the w<Jter body where weed control spraying is required, Present state guidelines require permits for any weed control operation in waters greater than 10 acres in size. Activities less than 10 acres are generally exempt from permit requiremonts, with certain exceptions. There are only two lakes within City of Clearwater jurisdiction that arc 10 acres or greater and have an active aquatic spray control program: Lake 8clleview and L(1ke Weschester. Both of these lakes had the required permits to operCJle a weed control spray program (Permit No. IISG-90~266). However, that permit expired on AUGlIst 1, 1991 C1nd will rOClllirc renew(l1 before tho next regularly scheduled spraying may occur. All other lakes within the City of Clearwater arc exempt from state permitting requirements, including tile lake at Cliff Stevens Park, " Present state guidelines ~Iso require permits for any sprllY activity that connects to an Outstanding Florida Water. Pinellas County is designated an aquatic preserve by Chapter 258 of the Florida Statutes. Accordingly, tho Florida Department of Environmental Hegullltion has established portions of Tampa Bay within "Old Tampa Bay" as Class II waters and all other waters of the state within the aquatic preserve as "Outstanding Florida Waters." Therefore, those Outstanding Florida Waters that may be affected by weed control operations will require permits, regC1rdless of size. As a result of the Environmental Mllnngement Group's evaluation of your program, I respectfully offer the following recommendations for your consideration: I 1. Commence permit renewal procedures for Permit No. tlSG-90-266 before commencing any weed control operations in Lake Belleview and lake Weschcster. 2.. locate on a mop all spray ofJcrations in canals, ditches or other natural or manmade conveyance systems that discharge or potentially could discharge into Outstanding Florida Wa tors. Request FONn review the map to ensure that permits to spray in these areas are not required. Although DNH has verbally 'assured me that' permits are not required in our conveyance systems, I am getting conflicting remarks from them about what constitutes a "connection to Outst<Jflding Florida Waters." This leads me to presume this to be an areL1 of exposure for the Cily that needs to be dealt with. Requesting DNR roview of our conveyance system spray siles would. place the burden back on DNf1 where it belong s to determine if permits are required or not. 3, Attached as Exhibit 13 are "Non-Rule Policies" that the locClI DNR office considers before approving or denying all application to iJpply chemicals into niJtural or potable systems. Please consider these "Non-rule Policies" be foro any decisions are made regarding the use of certain chemicals or spray locations. ..~ ...~.. ! (' .~~ '. Aquatic Weed Spray Program August 28, 1 991 Page 3 ~ In response to your other quC!stions, I rocornn\(Jnu that you provide the public with any requested information as you deem appropriate to help them resolve concerns or problems that they may have with any of our operations. Environmental Management has not been contacted by the public to report any fish kills or other spray related activities that might have caused an adverse environmental response. However, concerns far the City spray program were raised by Mike Foley at my last Environmental Advisory Comm ittee for considcra tion a t their next regularly scheduled meeting on September 18, 1991 at It :OOPM. ^ t that time, we need to be prepared to address this issue for their review. I will be pleased to work with you to develop a presentation to address this and suggest we get together as soon as possibl e to develop our raspons e. I hope this information is helpful to you as YOll address these citizlJlls complaints. Please let me know if I may be of further t1ssistclllcc Dr if mlditiollnl information is nooded from this offico. Attachments TlfMI srn^Y.EtN " , , . ' . '. . . I' ... '. . . . . '.' c' , '. " ' " " " . ". II '.. :..' . '. 1'....'. f. /;.<' I, 3, /1, q '2.-J ClrI'Y o l~ CLEARWATER , POST OFFICE BOX 4748 C LEA R W ATE R, F LOR I D A 3 4 6 1 8. 4 7 4 B { February 27, 1992 Mr. Edward Mazur, Jr., P.E., Prcsidcnt King Engineering Associatcs, Inc. 24945 U.S, Highway 19 North Clearwater, FL 34623 Rc: NPDES Contract \York EITorl Authorization Effective Date: Fcbnlm"y 14, 1992 Dear Mr. Mazur: - Thank you for your recent information need letters and invoice (iI=CL-5787) dated February 24, 1992. The invoice is presently being processed [or payment. The additional information which you provided substantially summarized our recent discussions relatcd to the impact of Pinellas County's efforts on our contract, as the result of the County NPDES meeting on February 14, 1992. The purpose for this lettcr is to provide you with c1car direction to proceed on those clements that we expect King Engineering Associates, Inc. to continlle to develop and further define the assistance that we anticipate providing. NPDES Contract Work Elements 011 Permanent Hold: These elements are on permanent hold because it is anticipated that either Pinellas County or the City of Clearwater will develop the rcquircd information. If the City of Clearwater expects to develop certain information necessary to completc a specific contract work clement, you should anticipate incorporating that information into the final product that will be sent to thc USEr A. Those clements that will be done by City staff are designated below with an asterisk C). 1. Section Al.e - Literature Search 2. Section ALE - Land Usage Inventory 3. Section Al.F.L - Topography 4. Section AI.F.2. - Cro~sing Structures 5. Section ALF.3. - Outfall Structures 6. Section AI.F.4. - Water Bodies 7. Section ALF.5. - GIS Date Base 8. Section A - Reimbur:mblcs *9, Section l3I.A - General Information *10. Section B.I.B - Source IdcntHication 11, Section BLC.2. - Discharge Information *12. Section BI.C.4. - Field Screening "'13. Section l3I.D - Characterization Plan *14. Section BLF - Pinancial Rcvi~\v * = Will require KEA to incorporate into tinal City submittal to USE? A. () ilnd ^fflrrnntive ^ction :\ ( (' Mr. E. Muzur, J 1'" P .E., Pl'csi dent Feb~unry 27, 1992 Page 2 ( , NPDES Contrm:t \Vork Effort 011 Temporary Hold: 1. 2, 3, 4, Section AI,D - Pending Completion of Part I Submittal to EP A. Section BI.H - Pending Determination by Pincllas County of Their Role. All Sectio11S BII - Pending Completion of Part I Submittal to EPA. All Sections D - Pending Completion of Pml I Submittal lo EP A. 1 NPDES Contract Work Effort Completed to Dale: 1. Section E " NPDES Contract Work Effort COIJsidered by the City of Clearwater as Active and to be Completed bv King Engineering Associates, Inc. in its Entirety: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. Secti 011 ALA Secti 011 ALB Sectioll BLC.l Section BI.C.3 Section B1.E Section BLG Section BI Section CI - Work Program Coordinatiol1 - Project Coordination Meetings - Rainfall Information - Receiving \1.' ater In [ormation - Management Program - Preparalion of Part I Application - Reirnbursablcs - All 'Work Elements CI.A - CI.G and Reimbursablcs A financial impact Stlmmary is provided as attachment A. We recognize that this summary is only complete to the extent that the information provided by you is complcte and does not include the outstanding invoice requirements through February 14, 1992 still outstanding from Roy F, Weston, Jnc: Thank you for furthcr summarizing the filIancial dctails related to contract clements BI.C.!, BI.C.3, BI.E, and BLG, We recognize that the contract is a "Not To Exceed" Contract and as work proceeds, sub-element costs may be greater or less th<lrl originally estimated. We appreciate bei.ng kept informed of these deviations because they help us to be informcd of work requirements and further assist us to effectively manage this contract. Please continue to provide llS with level of information as it becomes known. ~ (" /'" i Mr. E. Mazur, Jr., P.E. President February 27, 1992 Page 3 '. " I would like to further discuss with you the anticipated work efforts related to Contract Element 13I.E, Existing Management Program. I am concerned that were I to provide a written evaluation of many of the tasks requested in your February 24, 1992 letter to the extent that I believe is necessary, t1tere would be no need for KEA to do this. We need to further discuss this to help me better understand our shared roles in completing this element as staff time to complete this effort is limited. I will call you to discuss this matter further. Sincerel~ d. -./ .' '-/~ ~ Terry Fin~ Environmental Program Supervisor - - TF Attach. cc. W. C. Baker, Public Works Director T. Miller, Assistant Public \Vorks Dircctor/Environmental .' " ., . ~ . . .' ~ .. ' '. .' . , '.' . '. J' , . - '. . . . . .' . ..' f': '" . .' '. '. .... . 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Z . 0 ~~ p...~ Z O~ 0 Zc4 t:::~ ti~~ ~ ~~ ~~ ~ g~CI) ~Ut::: -< 1:::' ~~ ~~ ~ .~ z~~ a u~ u I~ CI)~ UU o ~ ~ z~ z~ ~:=E o~1ii ~~~ (/) ~~ c4 ~~ ~(/)~ < ~g: o d ~~~ P4 U ~ (/) (1") &') < ..... ~ ..... ~ J:Q u Q ~ . ".' ...,: '. '.'/ .'" ','f,' ,'_ .. .. .., t. . . "I' ...,.." '. " .'- ".',.. .... "IRR-II -1 992 15: 08 FROt-1 C I T',' OF CLEHR&JHT ER TO F'UBL I C lIlORI<S P.04 ... .. 4. { , I " REpORT to HAROLD W. lIUNf, E~C Cllt\.mMAN REGARDINQ EAC ACTIONS AT FEBRUARY 12, 1992, MEE1WG 1. 1'h~, E~C recommends that the City Commission approve the remainder of the Comprehensive watershed management Master Plan contractual authorizatiOiL AllSwer: The City has applied to Pinellas AnclQte Basin Board to have theln fund this project. 'Part I,NPDES application'is due and will be submitted in May of 1992. Part II NPDES application ~s required ill May of 1993 and this submission may affect the comprehensive plan., . , 2. The SAC recommends that the City of Clearwater proceed with the plans to expand the r~laimed water system to relieve the impending severe problems associated with pumping water out of the underground aquifer. Answer: The City Commission reviewed the funding for this project and has opted for a sl()wet but more market oriented approach. Funding for a n'1ajor tronk line from the Marshall street plant was app.rove<! at the fIrst Commission meeting in March. (A copy of the agenda i tern is attached wit 110 U t b i. d tab u 1 a t ion a t t a c h men t ) . 3. The SAC recommends that the City take steps to maintain aquatics in Cliff Stevens Park ina manner other than chemical spraying and not harmful to the ecology. Answer: After final infonnation is submitted from the county or a contractor on the full cost of the mechanical weeding, careful consideration will be given to this issue. 4. The RAe plans to increase its efforts to raise the environmental awareness of the community. Answer: City staff will work with you to provide information that will be helpful in this endeavor. 5. The EAC endorses recent Commission initiation of the Environmenta1. Reinspection Regulatory J?nforcement Program and adoption of watering restrictions. Answer: The City Commission has reviewed! and or passed the measures endorsed by the Environmental Advisory Ccmmittee. 6. The EAC is reviewing its near term agenda emphasis plans and encourages the City Commission to identify specific areas of concern in which RAe review may be beneficial to Commission assessments and decisions. Answer: The Commission received a copy of your report. Thank you very much. Attachment . or,. " . .. " " " . '. ...'.. ".;'. ' . . : ' '. . . '. " ~. . '. . . , ' .. " . " .' 'j j',,~. .' .' . . . :'. , .,:'. '. '. l'lAR-'~ 1-1992 15:08 FRO/1 C J TY OF CLEARWATEf~ TO PUBL Ie I,JORI<S F' . 05 ... .' l":i ,. ;"" . . ll.~11 If CL~ARWATER ~IT~ COMMISSION Agend~6~!ENfmorandum , \II t.f Meeting Date SUBJECT: 'Marshall stre~t S~\1.tb Interceptor sewer :R~placement and Reolaimed water' Supply (92-11) RECOMMSNDA'1'!ON/KOTION: Award a contract fa'r the Marshall street South Interceptor Sewer Replacement and Reclaimed Water Supply to Kamminga and Roodvoets, Ino. of Tampa, Florida for the sum of $2,764,610.00 which is the lowest most responsive bid submitted in accordance with the plans and specifications. 00 And that the, appropriate officia~ be, autho'rized to execute same. .J "l I" IJ BACKGROUND: The purpose of this contract is to provide for the const1;7uetion of Phase 1 of the Marshall Street South Interceptor Sewer R~placement and the constructiort ofa portion of the primary distribution system for the water reuse utility. The existinq Marshall street south interceptor is approximately 40 to 60 years old 'and needs replace~ent due to its deteriorated condition ~nd being undersized to acool\Ul\oda"te present flow demands. The entire intercept.or is proposed to be replaoed or restored in three phases. The first phase of the work will be the :replacement of the interceptor from the Marshall street Advanced Pollu.tion control Facility to Cleveland Street. The work in phase 1 will generally follow the route of the existing interceptor and runs through the middle of the Clearwater Country Club golf course. Phase 3 is currently being restored in a . separate contxact using the Insituform process. Phase 2, from Cleveland street to Missouri, is scheduled for construction next fiscal year. In addition to the replacement of the interceptor, a portion of the water reuse system is also proposed for installation. This 3011 diameter distribution main of the reuse system is proposed for construction at this time so as to avoid greatly increased restoration costs if this facility were to be installed at a later date. An added benefit for installation at this time will be the immediate availability of reuse water to the Clearwater country Club. The proj ect includes a temporary pumping faoili ty at the Marshall APCF for this purpose. The work has been coordinated with the Country Club and they have plans for the installation of storage ponds on the golf course to store the reuse, water for irrigat.ion purposes. The Country Club has sought this ability fo~ many years. The,.design continued: 1 I . I . I . I I I I I Reviewed by: I Originating Dept. Costs; S2~764.670.00 I coamission ActiM I Leg~ l N/A I I t , w4I- , I I !PUb(;O 1I0rk/Ensit1rC*' I I I (Current FY) I Approved I I I 4., v I I . I I . I" I I I Sud9~t ~: j ;7 Funding Source; I Approv~d : User Dept. , . , I I 7 I I I I w/condltions _____ I I I I 1 : Purchasln9 N/^ I C3pt. tfll). )( I I I I I I I I Denied I I Risk Hgmt.. I I I I ".L~ I AdvertiG~: Operating I i ~ I I t I I " I , I Cont'd to I I 01$ ilIA loate: P1l10/~2 & 01/13L~~ I Other I I I I . I J I ACH N.LA !paper:~~. Peters~rQ Times' I I I , ">~\ I Not requl red Approp~lation Code(s) t A tuchl!K!nts:. I I Other N1A I I I I 'I_J,' , . 315-1.66~7'638/535 i Sid Tabul~tion I I su ' I lIlod_ t I Afftct~ parties I I . I notified. 1 1 , , I I I C1 I Not r~ui red I I I I I I recfelm, \9j .I I ':.. ~!( .. - .. -. ---. ,. .... ,. -. , . - -_ . __ .........., \1 \...... , .....,...... paqe' 2 co~t:i.n\ted : - (" Karch 5, 1992 Commission MeGtinq Re: Marsball street South J:n1:eroept.or Sewer SupPlY (92-11) r \ Replacetnen't anQ Reclai1\\ed wa~eJ:' was p~eparad by Camp'Dresser & McRee.. A pre-bid conferenoe was held on December 29,'~992 and five (5)~bids were received on February 12, ~9~2. The lo~ bidder was l(aII\Il\inqa, and Roodvoets, :Inc:. in the amount of $2,764,670.00 and the engineerts estimate was $3,520,000.00. Approval of the bid award will allow the proj eot to begin in April 1992, and will be co:mplete by February, 199:3. The golf course will remain open for play during construction. ' ... The available balanoe in this project #31S-1-6637, Marshall stree~ Interceptor Sewer Replacement, is sufficient to provide $1,999,500 in funds f.or this contract. The First Quarter, FY 1991/92, Budget Review includes an amendment .to provide the necessary $765,170 'for' this contract plus other related oosts for accomplishinq this project. ' , . " , ' , , , ,. " " , .: .:~ . ~1 ,~ ..'~ :' ," ::-: .l.';;' ~ t. t " ;i" .. r:;. ( .;? .) - II FLORIDA NEIGImORHOODS Draft Prospectus Febroary 18, 1992 .J ( CONCEPT fVlzat is Florida Neighborhoods? Florida Neighborhoods is a program which pairs neighborhood associations with an inter-organi~ational team* of professionals trained to conduct environmental assessments of neighborhoods and advise homeowners on ways to: conserve water and energy; reduce stormwater runoff; transition to a more earth-friendly landscape; preserve and maintain shorelines; reduce and properly manage household waste; and increase backyard wildlife. The objectives of the program are to reduce stormwater pollution from residential areas and improve the environmental quality of neighborhoods, in an effort to protect Tampa Bay. Florida Neighborhoods is based on the concept for ECO Neighborhoods, a program developed by the Marine Resources Council of East Florida. * Proposed professional assessment team: Cooperative Extension Service, FL Native Plant Society, Florida Power corporation, Tampa Electric Company, Southwest Florida Water Management District, Florida Department of Natural Resources, Flor ida Department of Environmental Regulation, City/County representatives Why is tlzis type oj program so impoltallt? Non-point source pollution is one of tbe highest priority water quality issues in Tampa Bay and throughout Florida. In residential areas, stormwater runoff carries lawn fertilizers, pesticides, toxins and debris to neighborhood storm drains which empty into nearby streams and rivers, Ultimately leading to the bay. This untreated runoff results in water that is 'eutrophic' or overly rich in nutrients. Eutrophication can spark excessive growths of algae, depleting the water of oxygen needed for fish and plants. How serious is the problem? Experts believe that non-point source pollution is the leading cause of water pollution in Florida. And the price-tag associated with future stormwater management improvements by local governments surrounding Tampa Bay may reach into the billions. 2 ',' . , " , " . ' . .. ~.. ..., ,.' : ' ',~.' ..". ' ,.' ;', ,'J ,. .':. . .' " '. '.. ., r. (' '" Florida Neighborhoods is predicated on the belief that we must focus our resources on combatting stormwater pollution and other environmental impacts at the source. The program also recognizes that issues like water conservation and water pollution are inter-related, and are addressed most effectively when viewed holistically. The program will assess stormwater and related environmental problems in neighborhoods. Its aim is to establish realistic and challenging neighborhood environmental improvement targets for associations and for individual homeowners. STRUCTURE lYhat will the program efl tail? The Program's assessment team would analyze public common areas and a representative sampling of yards within selected neighborhoods. After conlpleting an on-site inspection and conducting a survey of homeowners, a neighborhood plan would be developed. The plan would contain specif ie, measurable goals related to water and energy conservation; envi:ronmental landscaping; stormwater runoff; shorelines; household waste; and backyard wildlife. Residents would receive a 'how-to' resource guide with practical tips and instruction on topics covered in the plan. Workshops would be scheduled periodically to reenforce concepts and offer hands-on support. A group of residents would be trained to provide local support on topics like xeriscaping and composting i other residents would be targeted to host demonstration projects. How long will the progranl run ill each neighborhood? Each Neighborhood program could extend up to 18 months from start (application and homeowner survey) through goals assessment (at conclusion of the formal program). At minimum, associations will have a full year to act on recommendations in their environmental plan, but it is important they be provided with 'next step' guidance at the at the end of the year so that they can continue to make improvements. While it is not :realistic to expect that dramatic structural changes will be made within a year's time, important steps can be initiated. A year is long enough to make significant progress, and short enough to hold people's attention and enthusiasm. 3 , ..; .,,": . '.. ,~,... ,. .. . ( '. . . . ,.' ,', ~~' .:.','. ""..' '. . .... ;':' ,,' '. :' ',' ,'.,,, .':'.' '. "~'. ,.",' ", . . .:, ,:" " .,~~",..".. .~.':' " '.' h~. ' ':'.'.. ".,: ", , '., ' . . ',' '" . .' ~', ~ . . '. \' . , . ,'. .', , " , ". '.,. . I.". ..' . ....,.,. ",,- . \';. r" I The program is centered arol/nd all assessment of a neighborhood's environmental quality. lVllat would that assessment c01lsist of? Three parts: a survey mailed to homeowners, a neighborhood profile completed by the association, and an on-site inspection of neighborhood common areas and yards. The survey will help the resource team understand general landscaping and household management practices in the neighborhood. Realistically, we might get a 20 percent return from the survey. To get a more accurate picture, we will combine information from the survey with a neighborhood profile that the association will be asked to complete as a condition for acceptance into the program. The walk-through will allow the team to make a visual assessnent of the area and complete an audit checklist. In combination, these assessment tools will help us develop recommendations for the neighborhood action plan. lJaw would the program progress from stalt to finish? After a neighborhood is selected, a questionnaire would be mailed to homeowners to obtain basic background information. Information from the questionnaire and association application would be used to develop a neighborhood profile for distribution to appropriate eco- team members. A walkthrough of the neighborhood would then be conducted using a comprehensive checklist. The next step would be to develop the written neighborhood action plan, and distribute the plan and resource materials to the association and its homeowners. A timetable for neighborhood improvement projects would be established by the team and the association at this point. Association meetings would be held at the beginning of the program, after the environmental plan is distributed, and at the end of the program. Neighborhood volunteers could be trained to serve as local resources on xeriscaping, composting, and water conservation. Demonstration workshops also could be scheduled throughout the year. At the conclusion of the program, the neighborhood would be assessed on the basis of how well it met the goals outlined in its environmental action plan. If there is 80 percent or greater compliance, the neighborhood becomes a Florida Neighborhood. Florida Neighborhoods would receive a sandblasted sign publicizing their status, and other special rewards. * Neighbors would be honored at a post-program picnic at which a 'next step' neighborhood improvement plan would be distributed. 4 . . '. '. .", ",:. _...' '...... :,.. .: ':,'".':,, '. ~.' ,: :... ".. :..,' ... ..', .. :""i. .... '....' .': ..... :'.; .',. . .,~.'. ' ......,' " ."..:' '.. .....::." ., . . . *' "., .,' . ~ , :.. . .':'. . t.' _.'~'. . .. ~. . . . '. . . . ' . ' . ,. tf:.: . w '. i; ~Vllat types of recommendations or goals might be established for a neighborhood? Neighborhood goals could include: Removing exotic vegetation Increasing the amount and species of native plants Establishing a xeriscape demonstration project and wildlife garden Changing irrigation and fertilization practices Constructing swales and berms Reducing household ~aste through initiation or expansion of recycling Establishing a neighborhood compost program, and a semi- annual hazardous ~aste pick-up day Stenciling storm drains to discourage dumping Individual homeowners might be asked to: Complete a home energy audit Complete a Water Checkup provided by SWFWMD Install low-flow conservation showerheads and faucet devices (group purchases could be arranged) Increase native plants Reduce and/or alter fertilization and pesticide application practices Recycle ** For added flexibility, ~e will establish two levels of goals or targets ~ithin a neighborhood, driven by a progressive set of incentives: an achievement level and an outstanding achievement level. 110 w will the program be manage(l? P/lure will it be hOl/sed? The National Estuary progran has agreed to contribute funds for a full-time project coordinator to manage the project, but we feel it is vitally important that this person be housed and managed outside our offices, within an organization active on the assessment team. After investigating several options, the County Cooperative Extension Service, which currently administers an environmental. / landscape management program, was selected as the ideal candidate. ~ We felt strongly, from the start, that this type of program could not succeed unless it becomes the property of the individuals and organizations who will be directly involved in the neighborhood assessment. Having the program housed and managed within the Cooperative Extension Service provides this critical foundation. The Extension Service will be responsible for hiring and managing the project coordinator, who will serve the three counties participating in the progran. 5 , . '.':. ' ' . ~ ~ f ", '~ .... '" '. .'.,....' . I , . ,'. : '. ' : ..: " ; j . " ". " .. r ,1/.", . t ,.. I The project coordinator would serve as the primary liaison between the neighborhood associations and the assessment team. This person would write the neighborhood environmental plan after reviewing checklists completed by other team members. Ilow do we define a lleighborlzoo((? ~VJrat size is ideal? Initially, we may confine our program to neighborhoods with active homeowners associations, because they offer structure and a means to communicate to residents. (Exceptions will be made in areas where there is a well organi zed core of homeowners that can generate support for the program.) In cases where neighborhood associations do not represent the maj ority of homeowners, the association will be required to I sign up I a percentage of non members to participate as a condition for acceptance into the program. All non association members in a selected neighborhood will'be notified by mail and encouraged to participate. Neighborhoods will be defined by association membership" rather than by legal boundaries. Neighborhoods of more than 250 homes will be broken into smaller groups and addressed in separate phases. Qur preferred neighborhood size ranges from 150-250 homes. Oil what basis willlleiglzborlzoods be selected for tire program? In the first year of the program, before opening the process to application, we will select a pilot site in Hillsborough, Manatee and Pinellas counties, in order to fine tune the program and test our assessment and marketing instruments. Eventually, neighborhoods will apply to the program, and be evaluated on location, demographics, and the level of neighborhood commitment. While waterfront neighborhoods may be a high prior i ty, other factors will be very important: types of housing (single family/multi-family), other demographics (residential/commercial ratio), amount of public common space available, golf course or other high-impact land or waterfront use, and degree of association commitment. lV/wt happens at the end of a neighborhood program? After the final neighborhood assessment, a 'next step' (five year) priority action list will be developed and presented that outlines recommendations and available resources and incentives. 6 . '.".. ~ .~ ., \'... . '. ." '. ..... . .' .'. ' '.' . .. .'. ".:, . '. '.,.', " ..,.. . . . .' ". .' '.' ,. '. . . . . . .... . .... . " . , ;""',.. '.o"': " . ,.. 4,.' . ". '" . . .' ..' .' ", A"'. { I ; '. What kind ofincelltives could be offered to neighborhoods that reach ant! Slllpass their goals? Various levels of incentives could be offered to homeowners by the agencies/governments represented on the professional team, as well as by private businesses who might help sponsor the program. These incentives should be based on hitting targets established in the plan, and reward both neighborhood, block, and individual efforts. Examples include: free native plantst trees or seedlings and expert consultation on neighborhood improvement project free or discounted landscaping, conservation, energy/home improvement items one-time reduction in water or energy bill reduction in stormwater utility fee selection for city tree program park or playground equipment COMMITMENT FROM ASSESSMENT TEAM What staff commitment is required? Team members, with the exception of the staff coordinator, would be asked to devote eight hours a month, or the equivalent of one full work day, to the program. This includes time spent inspecting neighborhoods, completing the environmental checklist, and reviewing the draft plan. Time commitment beyond this level is at the discretion of the government/agency represented on the team, although the local government in which we are working will most likely commit more time. Periodically, if there is sufficient neighborhood demand, participating agencies/organizations might be asked to conduct workshops to provide hands-on support for xeriscaping, composting, water conservation, etc. }VJlat direct costs are associated with the program? See Appendix A ,:::;' ,. ... 7 ,1.1-. ~ ".... . , ,. How do we guard against excessive labor intensity on the part of the professional team working with a,neighborhood? Require a "sweat equity" cOlllmi tment from condition for selection into the program neighborhood commitment) . neighbors as a (see section on Establish paid project coordinator the chief liaison between associations and the assessment team. utilize the Extension Services' 'Master Gardeners' ,.,here appropriate to consult with neighbors and associations on landscaping, composting, etc. Define, to the best of our ability, the specific roles of assessment team members before we go into a neighborhood, and clearly communicate this to the association. Florida Neighborhoods is not a welfare program, partnership. it is a l-Vill every eco-team member he involved irz the oil-site inspectio1l oj the 1leighborhood? No. Each neighborhood will be different and the assessment team will be planned accordingly. Some will be involved in the on-site neighborhood ,.,alkthrough. others will serve only as expert information resources on environmental topics covered. The rule of thumb will be that if an agency/organization has nothing to gain from a visual inspection of public areas, streets, gutters, storm drains or yards, there is no need for them to be part of the actual neighborhood walkthrough. COMMITMENT FROM NEIGlrnORIlOOD What commitment will be required of neighborhoods pal1icipati1lg ill the program? As a condition for adoption into the program, neighborhood associations and homeowners must commit, in writing, to a lninimum amount of "sweat equity" in neighborhood improvement. Requirements might include: five hours contributed by each homeowner to ne ighborhood improvement projects pre sign-up of 70% of association members to actively participate in the program 8 ~r:;}..t!J;.,'ii.. .;..:(: .~.\:,.~: ,,' . .~ . .' : ~. '. . ", ~ . ,..... v:. .' , .' . . . j .' . . ' .,' " ;:~. ';,~ designation of a core team of homeowners (five) who could be trained to serve as local "experts" on recycling I native plants, water conservation, energy conservation cooperation from a core group of homeowners (five) to serve as demonstration sites for xeriscape applications, wildlife, composting, etc. designation of a cross-section of yards (10 percent) that the assessment team will have access to when conducting their onsite inspection commitment from association to switch to recommended fertilization/irrigation practices in common areas These are examples, and the requirements could be modified depending on the area under consideration. But the central point remains: we will weed out residents/associations who are looking for a free consultation, no strings attached--and commit our ourselves and our resources, instead, on behalf of people who are willing to work alongside us in improving their neighborhood. 9 MARKETING 110w do we market the program to neighhors? Message: This program is compelling from"a marketing standpoint because it can be successfully promoted on a variety of levels. The challenge is to find common denominators that appeal to everyone. The underlying message we want to communicate to neighborhoods interested in the program is that Florida Neighborhoods is about: saving money saving the environment and improving the quality of life in your own backyard Logistics and demand: In each county, there are councils of neighborhood associations. In the early stages of the program, these will be the primary vehicles ~e will work through to promote the program and solicit applications. The program and application process also can be publicized through the vast network of organizations/governments represented on Florida Neighborhoods I through garden clubs and schools, and in the media. Controlling demand will be important, early on, until we've tested and refined the program. This will be accomplished through the minimum requirements "partnership agreement" that neighborhoods must agree to as a condition for participation in the program. How do we build homeowner investment in the program, and sustain enthusiasm throughout the program's term? Set challenging, but realistic objectives for homeowners and associations Establish and distribute a calendar for the year, with month- -by month conservation focuses Involve residents and area schools, churches and clubs in neighborhood improvement projects Reward initiative and outstanding efforts Publicize accomplishments Offer incentives for reaching goals Use signage and other visibility tools to build awareness and pride in the program 10 " .:" . , ,':...... t .' < : ..' . -. . ." " " . \ , . , .:' . .,; " ; ..' .: '. , " . ,:' :t~ . ,,-'. .. .. PROGRAM EVALUATION I/ow do measure the results oj the program? If when we evaluate a neighborhood at the beginning of the program, we establish 'measurable' goals or targets for the neighborhood to meet by year end, we will have automatically established a mechanism ror measuring progress when our work is completed. In al~ost every assessment category, there exists an opportunity to conduct pre and post measurements. Either we will have been successful in conserving water in a given area, or we will not have been successful. Either we will have reduced energy consumption in an area or we will not have reduced energy consumption. Either we will have increased native plants in the neighborhood or we will not have had an impact. Either we will have reduced pollution from stormwater runoff or we will not have reduced the pollution. The strength of this type of program is that ~e will know whether or not our investment of time and resources was worthwhile. We will also provide an opportunity for the neighborhood to "tell us how we've done," by asking them to critique the program in the follow-up questionnaire distributed to homeowners. What spill-off opportullities exist? The concept for Florida Neighborhoods can easily be modified and applied to businesses, schools and new residential developments. There are exciting applications for all three which "Will be explored once we have piloted and evaluated the core program. What happens when NEP c01lcludes its lVork in Tampa Bay ;1l199S? Assuming the program is a funding/administrative options Neighborhoods after NEP is gone: success, there are for maintaining several Florida interlocal agreement could be established among Hillsborough, Pinellas and Manatee counties lead agency which houses project coordinator could absorb and fund the program 1.~ ;: \ r (9- , ~'I I . f ~ , '" \ ~... . '1' . . each municipality/county could establish their own Florida Neighborhoods program (the 'primer' for the program will have been developed and tested by this time) team members or lead agency could apply for grant or other special funding 12 ~. '. t !. .' . . '. 9 '.. :' . ".' ,.' ~ <,' " . . .' I' . ..' .' ,.' . " ' ~. ' : ! 1\ppelldix A Budget The National Estuary Program has com~itted up to $40,000 this year to hire and provide benefi ts for a program coordinator. Our estimate for other program-related costs ranges from $15,000- $20,000, and is based on: transportation (mileage rei~bursement for travel in tri-county area) 2,000 mi.month @ .20 4,800 development of identity package for progra~ including logo, stationary, designs for signs and basic promotional materials ~,500 marketing construction of (5) sandblasted signs and series of smaller promotional signs to be placed in neighborhoods to promote program and publicize progress 3,000 promotional items including tee-shirts and refrigerator magnets ~,OOO ~ design! layout of 20 page Homeowners Resource Guide for distribution ~rto residents (1500 copies @ $1) ~,500 printing (5,000 sets stationary, cut doorhangers) (2,500) booklets, and 2,500 die- 7,000 Total estimated costs $18,BOO * This budget assumes that host organization which employs the coordinator will contribute office overhead, and that postage costs will be covered by the city or county which we are working with. tv) lfec..}-\ 1 ~ -- I ~P1f \ ~ /)~tJ / J AGe7JcJes - ~ OtJOo/1! l/ n LI Tl B - 2:>;'00-0 / .eI ~Sa~ ~7J/;sleCfZ.lIv PI 0 7 / N - 1</ if"p I'c> ~ 1f9Ge 13