08/12/1991 (2)
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WORKSESSION
City Commission Worksession Minutes
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CITY COMMISSION WORK SESSION
August 12, 1991
The City Commission of the City of Clearwater met at City Hall with the following
members present:
Rita Garvey
Sue Barfield
Richard Fitzgerald
Lee Regulski
William Nunamaker
Mayor/Commissioner
Vice-Mayor/Commissioner
Commissioner
Commissioner
Commissioner
Also present:
Michael J. Wright
M.A. Galbraith, Jr.
Cynthia E. Goudeau
City Manager
City Attorney
City Clerk
The meeting was called to order at 1 :00 p.m.
Service Pin Awards - Two service awards were presented to City employees.
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Presentation bv Camo Dresser ~ McKee reqardinQ desion considerations for Pier 60
renovation (WSO)
Tom Burke, representing Camp Dresser & McKee (COM), indicated an attempt has
been made to accommodate the winning pier design which includes 18 structures
consisting of portals, sitting areas and a bait house. The proposed construction is wood
with old-time lighting. The current pier's structure is in poor shape and he recommended
replacing it. He estimated the basic structure will cost between $1. 2-million and $1.4-
million. An additional $750,000to $950,000 will be needed for the 18 additional
structures, He said a shopping list is being proposed today and the Commission can add
as many amenities as they wish.
In response to a question, the City Manager recommended the City Commission
reach a decision now regarding what amenities they want on the pier and not build it in
stages. In response to a question, it was indicated walking onto the pier is free. Going
beyond the bait house will cost $0.50. In response to a question, Mr. Burke reported
permits will be required from the Department of Natural Resources (DNR). He said the
existing groin piles allowed accumulation of the beach. Current thinking is to enclose the
old groin piles and top them with concrete. Beyond that, wood or concrete construction
has not been determined. Mr. Burke indicated COM can design the basic structure to
accommodate add ons and the Commission can pick and choose what they want. Mr.
Wright said the Commission will see this again before the bid goes out. In response to a
question, it was indicated an observation deck has been proposed for the end of the
structure.
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1 991/92 Budget: a) First Rj3adina Ord. # 511 5-91/ Millage: b) First Readina Ord. #511 6-91
I Ooeratina: and c) First Readina Ord. #5117-91/ C&oitallmorovement (ASl
Discussion ensued regarding the three-year forecast predicting a $1. 6-million
shortfall or need to increase taxes for Fiscal Year (FY) 1992/93. It was suggested
$800,000 be removed from the proposed budget. Various options were discussed.
Suggestions were made to send a redundant employee at Ross Norton to the Sailing Center
versus the Long Center and to reduce overtime by 10% across the board. Extensive
discussion ensued regarding the need to balance the budget and the impact of drastic cuts
at this time. It was also suggested to cap the number of employees at the current level
and to look at the pension plan's funding.
The majority of the Commission thought the rollback rate should be the target for
this year's budget. Extensive discussion ensued with concerns expressed regarding the
need to make cuts and how to save money without reducing services.
Consensus of the Commission was for the City Manager to bring back a budget at
the rollback rate with options for cuts and options to reduce the budget beyond the
rollback rate.
Contract for roof enqineerina and design services for seven City facilities to Professional
Service Industries. Inc., Clearwater, FL, at an estimated cost of $35,500 (GS)
I,:::)
On October 18, 1990, the City Commission authorized staff to negotiate a contract
with Professional Service Industriesl Inc. (PSI) for roofing consultant services and to
establish a roof maintenance and replacement schedule for various City facilities. On
April 4, 1991, the City Commission authorized a contract to survey the roofs of 12 major
facilities believed to be in need of major repair or total replacement.
PSI completed its survey and designated seven facilities as having roofing surfaces
that need replacement or major repairs. These facilities' are: the City Marina, the
Clearwater Shuffleboard Center, Fire Station Nos. 1 and 4, Memorial Civic Center, the Main
Library, and Moccasin Lake Park. The total fee for roof engineering and design services for
these facilities is estimated at $35,500.
PSI proposes to provide the following roof engineering and design services: al
Conduct an investigative analysis of available roof systems to determine the most
compatible system for the required performance criteria of the building; to provide a
complete roof system design with specifications and detailed drawings, tailored to each
specific project; to review all documents with the City; b) Conduct contractor qualifications
analysis for bidder selection and solicit competitive bids from a minimum of three qualified
roofing contracting firms; c) Conduct a pre-bid conference at the job site with contractors
to review plans, specifications and field conditions; and d) Review all bids with City staff
for contractor selection and make recommendations for contract award.
In response to a question, Floyd Carter, General Services Director, indicated a
determination has been made regarding the roofs that need to be replaced. He said this
contract is for the design work. It was questioned if Moccasin lake was removed from the
list. Mr. Carter indicated this is a major repair and that project has no funding for design.
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-..... Contract for the burglar and fire alarm service and monitorina for one vear to Maire Co.,
Clearwater, FL, at an estimated cost of $17,964 (GSl
The Maire Company has installed alarm systems in 27 City facilities; the alarm
systems remain the property of this company. After providing this service for several
years, the Maire Company has agreed to continue the service at current pricing. Staff
recommends this company continue providing burglar and fire alarm service and
monitoring. If put out to bid, responding companies would include a charge for installing
new alarm systems. The estimated charge represents the annual fee for servicing and
monitoring burglar and fire alarms for City facilities.
The City Manager indicated this is being reviewed to see if all monitoring is needed.
It was questioned if City staff could monitor the alarms. It was indicated the alarm is tied
into the City's telephone Jines.
Consensus of the Commission was to pull this item from the agenda
Purchase Order Contract to Smith Fence Comoanv to install new uDQraded backstoo and
wing fencing on the two ball fields at Frank Tack Park for $32,238 (P&RJ
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During the April 25, 1991 storm, the Frank Tack Park backstop and wing fencing
were severely damaged and removed. Smith Fence Company, according to the current
contract with Pine lias County, supplied the City with two quotations: 1 J a $22,212 bid to
repla'ce the fencing with the same materials specified when it was installed in 1972 and 2)
a $32,238 bid to replace/upgrade the fencing to current standards including larger diameter
fence posts, heavier duty fence fabric, and welding of joints rather than nuts and bolts.
Staff recommends upgraded fencing due to frequent repairs roquired for the original lighter-
weight fencing.
In response to a question regarding the proposed upgrades, the City Manager
indicated the changes will reduce labor costs.
ICont'd from 07/18/91) Public Hearing & First Reading Ord. #5105-91 - Creating Sec.
136.031, adopting standards and specifications for stormwater detention facilities;
amending Sec. 137.010, relating to site plans and storm water detention requirements for
development projects requiring site plan approval (PW)
For the past years, property undergoing development in the City has been subject to
storm water detention and treatment requirements based upon the development's impact.
Property, not subject to stormwater requirements when originally developed, often is
extensively paved or otherwise impervious. The impact of redevelopment often provides
improvement to the storm water situation and the developer avoids having to provide
storm water facilities. In the Comprehensive Plan, the City pledged to eliminate this
inequity by adopting new retrofit standards relating to storm water requirements.
Redevelopers have been subject to standards established by the City Engineer in January
1991. The subject ordinance specifically ordains the City Engineer's actions.
On July 2, 1991, the Planning & Zoning Board unanimously approved the ordinance
as written.
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Through the Chamber of Commerce, downtown interests have requested that the
Urban Center zoning area be exempt from code requirements relating to storm water
detention. While the ordinance has not been brought forward with any exclusionary
language, staff has no problem with such an exemption inasmuch as the downtown area
already receives special considerations designed to encourage redevelopment. Language is
available for consideration should the Commission choose to exclude the downtown area
from this ordinance's requirements.
In response to a question, William Baker, Public Works Director, indicated a
threshold could be included in the ordinance. Currently, stormwater detention is required
for the first square foot of redevelopment. Concerns were expressed that the ordinance
would discourage development. The City Manager pointed out the ordinance does not
effect rehabilitation within a building's existing footprint. Mr. Baker indicated an option
favors developers because the requirement is proportional to the change. He reported,
however, the Environmental Advisory Board, recommends full detention if a property is
changed beyond a certain extent. Mr. Baker also reported the downtown area has
requested to be exempt. He said staff has not brought forward these considerations. If
the stormwater utility applies to all, he suggested some of those funds could be used to
build something to address the downtown area. Extensive discussion ensued regarding the
impact of the ordinance on redevelopment.
Consensus of the Commission was for the ordinance to provide more leeway for
redevelopment.
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The meeting recessed from 3:00 to 3: 1 0 p.m.
Ranking of prospective consulting engineers to crepare a PD&E study for the widening of
Drew Street (PW)
In cooperation with the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), the City
proposes to widen Drew Street from west of Ft. Harrison Ave. to east of NE Coachman
Rd. The City has agreed with FOOT to prepare preliminary design reports and construction
contract documents including construction plans and specifications in conformance with
FOOT and Federal Highway Administration requirements.
The City has allocated $4 million to begin preliminary work. The initial work
contemplated in this agreement is the preparation of a preliminary design report known as
a Project, Development and Environmental (PD&E) Study. Future contemplated work is the
preparation of construction contract documents including construction plans and
specifications, right-of-way maps, easement and property descriptions, FOOT Joint Project
Agreements for the relocation of utilities, permit applications, record drawings for utility
relocations, certifications and other professional services that may be necessary for the
successful completion of this project in coordination with FDOT. When such services are
desired by Clearwater, the City and Engineer will negotiate amendments to this agreement
for these professional services.
The City has advertised its need for a consulting firm to prepare the PD&E Study.
From ten firms responding to the City's advertisement, the Consultant Selection Committee
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selected three. Each made a one-hour presentation on their qualifications and was ranked:
1) Post, Buckley, Schuh & Jernigan; 2) Wade-Trim, Inc.; and 3) Parsons, Brinkerhoff,
Quade & Douglas, Inc. It is recommended that the Commission approve the Selection
Committee's ranking and authorize negotiations for contractual services in order of the
ranking.
In response to Questions, it was indicated the current work is to improve the
intersection at Saturn Avenue. The widening of Drew Street will require the purchase of
some property.
Ught Poles on SR 60
The City has received requests to bury the power lines for the street lights along SR
60. Mr. BakC3r indicated the City does not need to address the lights on the north side of
the road because they have already been addressed. He said, however, the wire could be
buried in some places on the south side. He said it would cost $10,000 to bury the wires
strung between 11 poles from the fire station to the Causeway. The City Manager
reported it will cost $57,000 to bury the lines on the north side from the sewer plant to
the first light. He said the results from the pending test bores will be presented to the
Commission. He questioned if the Commission wished to add the $10,000 project.
Concern was expressed that eliminating one wire did not justify the expenditure.
This item will be added to the September 5, 1991 agenda.
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It was announced the storm water ordinance will be on the August 29, 1991
agenda.
Interlocal agreement with Pinel/as County extendinQ the local ootion gas tax to
AUQust 31 . 2007 {PWJ
Pinellas County originally adopted a $0.04 per gallon gas tax effective 09/01/85-
08/31/95. Effective 09/01/87, Pinellas County raised the $0.04 cent tax to $0.06 and
extended the collection period from 09/01/95 to 08/31/97.
Pinellas County now proposes to extend the $0.06 gas tax for an additional period
of ten years, from 09/01/97 to 08/31/07. This action is proposed to avoid placing a toll
on the new Bayside Bridge and existing 78th Ave. Bridge and to provide more
transportation funds for road improvements.
In addition to providing a time extension of the gas tax, the proposed interlacal
agreement also suggests a new distribution formula to determine the division of the gas tax
among the County and municipalities beginning in January 1992. Under the existing
formula, PineUas County receives 75% of the total local option gas tax proceeds and cities
receive 25%. The unincorporated area of the County is considered a city and shares in the
city portion of the proce.eds. Under the new proposal, the County would receive 75% of
the tax proceeds and the unincorporated area would not share in the percentage allocated
municipalities. Each municipality's share of the tax would increase slightly. This change
will also provide an increased share of funds for the municipalities as the old formula
originally was to extend to 08/31/97.
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Under the present plan that expires August 31, 1997, Clearwater is estimated to
receive $3,016,000. Using the new formula far the same time period, Clearwater will
receive $5,072,000. If the tax is approved far ten additional years, it is estimated
Clearwater will receive an additional $9,088,000.
A major restriction in the proposed interlacal agreement requires that projects
constructed with total local option gas tax revenues be limited to those contained in the
lon9.range 2010 Transportation Plan adopted by Pine lias County Metropolitan Planning
Organization on October 26, 1984. While this plan includes most major thoroughfares, the
agreement would preclude using funds on City streets and other City projects not covered
by the plan.
Clearwater will participate on a percentage basis and projected dollar figures are
based on Florida Department of Revenue (DCR) estimates. Based on the first five years,
actual cash received has been approximately 91 % of DOR estimates.
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Cecil Henderson. Assistant Public Works Director, explained the changes indicating
the new agreement will be better for the City as Clearwater will receive $11.million more
than planned. The City Manager recommended support of the agreement, saying projects
earmarked for projects using Penny far Pinellas monies could be funded by this source and
the Penny for Pinellas funds could be used elsewhere.
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Purchase of a Traacs 800 Random Access Automated Chemical System for the Water
Pollution CantrolLaboratories from Bran & Luebbe AnalvzinQ TechnoloQies, Inc., Elmsford,
NY, for $49,716 (PW)
State and Federal regulatory agencies require the Water Pollution Control Division to
run daily nutrient tests on each treatment plant. Effective August 1, 1991, this workload
increased 25 % with the requirement to complete daily tests of the combined
East/Northeast effluent. Operating and discharge permits set maximum levels far each
test, four nitrogen species and two phosphorus species. The City is liable for fines if
maximums are exceeded. Additional nutrient tests a're run for monthly environmental
assessments and process control evaluation. Storm water discharge monitoring will be
required soon.
Commercial laboratories cannot provide daily sample results within required time
constraints. Turn-around times of two to four weeks from sampling date to report of
results are not uncommon. Results must be available in time to make process
adjustments, change chemical dosages, show trends in time for corrective action, and to
avoid permit violation fines.
The existing auto analyzer, in daily use for seven years, does not have the capacity
or speed to keep up with the increased sampling requirements. It is imperative to augment
its capability with an additional dual channel instrument. The combined performance will
enable more frequent batch runs, adequate response time for corrective action, and back-
up equipment during downtime.
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Staff is specifying sole source purchasing for the new unit from the present
system's manufacturer to maintain a consistent methodology to provide complete
redundancy in case of downtime, interchangeable parts where possible, standardization of
consumable materials, and the benefit of laboratory technicians' prior training and
experience.
In response to questions, it was indicated this was used in the water treatment
plant as the discharge permit provides that nitrogen cannot exceed certain levels. Bill
Baker said the City was fined $500 a day for 30 days when the plant did not meet
requirements for two days. He said this equipment is being requested for the lab to
provide a quicker turn around time.
A question was raised regarding how asphalt is purchased for paving. Mr. Baker
indicated the City usually purchases it by the ton. Concern was expressed that too much
asphalt is being used. It was requested that a recap of tonnage versus square yards be
provided to the City Commission.
1992 Legislative packsoe (eM)
General Issues of support or concern include: billboards/outdoor advertising/sign
regulation; impact fees; local government mandates; affordable housing - doc stamp
surtax; presumption of disability benefits for Police; occupational license reform; and
recapture Kenton penalty.
,"""~'\ Specific proposals an matters affecting land and water management include:
'-.......) regional activity center concept for retail and industrial developments; equitable annexation
of enclave areas; substantial improvement; and Pinellas County Planning Council
legislation.
General issues of support or concern include: volunteer protection; Sunshine Law -
applicability to Candidate's Night; services tax; and compressed natural gas.
Matters affecting general law include: inclusion of statutory notice requirements for
the adoption of ordinances; trip and fall on public sidewalk; electric utility tax base;
regulation of ucruisingU on the public streets; and amendments to the Comprehensive Plan.
In response to a question, it was indicated it is necessary to pursue the substantial
improvement ordinance.
Public Hearing & First Reading Ord. 1151 24-91 - Relatina to flood orotection; amending Sec.
146.004, COA, revising definitions of llsubstantial improvement" and "market value of the
structure" (PL&O)
The City Attorney and staff have identified a need to revise the definition for
'.substantial improvement" in the flood protection ordinance to provide consistent
treatment of properties on Clearwater Beach, Sand Key, and Island Estates. These areas
share similar characteristics regarding flood activity and should be treated similarly under
all regulations.
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State and Federal laws differ on how these areas Bre described and regulated.
Federal requirements (FEMA) define Clearwater Beach and Island Estates as "areas of
special flood hazard." The State defines only Clearwater Beach and Sand Key as areas
within the "coastal building zone."
Because of these distinctions, City code currently provides dissimilar treatment of
these areas. Regarding the definition of "substantial improvement, Tt Clearwater Beach and
Sand Key are governed by a "cumulative total" State rule limiting improvements to a
structure to 50% of the value of the structure cumulative over the life of the structure,
before full compliance with flood protection requirements must be achieved.
Island Estates, however, is governed by a Federal rule which states that local
governments may establish regulations which reflect appropriate time periods for what
constitutes "substantial improvements." In this case, the City has established a definition
of iisubstantial improvement" that limits structural improvements to 50% of the value of
the structure cumulative over a one year period before full compliance with flood protection
requirements must be achieved.
Legal research has revealed that the State rule is based solely on an informal staff
opinion from the Florida Department of Community Affairs, Consequently, since no formal
rule has been established as required under the Administrative Procedures Act (Chapter
120, Florida Statutes), the Stato rule is not binding on the City.
The proposed change to the definition of "substantial improvement" consolidates
.. F'.,,\ flood protection requirements for Clearwater Beach, Sand Key and Island Estates to reflect
-J current City regulations relating to Federal requirements; improvements to a structure are
limited to 50 % of the value of the structure cumulative over a one year period before full
compliance with flood protection requirements must be achieved.
The proposed change to the definition of "market value of the structure is made to
eliminate inconsistencies associated with changes to the definition of "substantial
improvement. II
On August 13, 1991, the Planning & Zoning Board unanimously recommended
approval of the code amendment. The Board further indicated it supports the City
Commission's efforts to amend State law concerning "cumulative improvementsll on
barrier islands.
It was noted the rules need to be consistent throughout the State.
Public Hearina & First Readino Ord. #5113-91 & #5114-91 - Land Use Plan Amendment to
Industrial and RD ZoninQ for Parcel A and B: Parcel A located in Sec. 17-29-16, M&B
21.00, less and except those lands zoned ALII, Parcel 8 located in Sec. 17-29-16, M&8
24.03, less and except those lands zoned ALII (Building Operation Holding Co., LUP91-04,
291-01) (Pl&DJ
It was indicated the Planning & Zoning Board (P&Z) has recommended approval of
the Land Use Plan Amendment and zoning change. Jim Polatty, Planning Director, said an
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associated ordinance establishing the zoning category has been changed to now require
four acres as a minimum lot size. He reported the P&Z recommended leaving the minimum
lot size at two acres. The City Manager indicated the ordinance is not needed in this case
as Park Place is controlled by a Development of Regional Impact. It was indicated, with
the larger lot size, the new zoning district cannot apply to the Rehm property.
The Commission did not wish to change their previous direction.
(Cont'd from 07/18/91) Alcoholic Beveraae Distance Saoaretlon Variance for Penguin
Palace Restaurant located at 7 Rockaway St., Miller's Replat, lot 2 & vacated beach drive
an West and Lot 3 (Alexiou, AB91-15) (PL&D)
This request is for an alcoholic beverage separation distance variance for a 4COP-
SRX establishment known as Penguin Palace. The subject property is located in a CR-28
zoning district which automatically establishes a requirement for a separation variance
since the CR-28 district is regarded as a residential district and alcoholic beverage uses are
required to be separated from residential districts.
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On April 2, 1991, the Planning & Zoning Board (P&Z) granted a conditional use
permit to allow an ownership change for the establishment, and to permit expansion of the
outdoor seating area on the property's west side. The approval was sublect to the
following conditions: 1) the requisite occupational license shall be obtained within one
year from the date of the public hearing; 2) the applicant shall obtain the required variances
from the Development Code Adjustment Board (DCAB); the applicant shall obtain the
required variances from the City Commission; and 4) the applicant shall obtain the requisite
permits from the Florida Department of Natural Resources (DNR).
The applicant must obtain the following variances from DCAB: 1) a variance of 15
feet to permit a deck zero'feet from a street right of way; 2) a variance of 55.5 feet to
permit extension of a structure across the Coastal Construction Control Line (CCCL); and
3) a variance of seven parking spaces to permit a 1,338 square foot deck.
On July 11, 1991, DCAB denied an associated variance. A variance of 7.65 feet to
permit a deck 7.35 feet from a rear property line, and continued the variances listed above
until the August 8, 1991 meeting. Staff will provide the Commission with a written report
on DCAB's action concerning the variance requests.
Staff recommends denial of the parking variance associated with the deck
expansion. The existing deck has been the subject of protracted code enforcement action.
Most recently, on January 8, 1991, the Municipal Code Enforcement Board (MCEB) heard
a code violation case based of the deck's location west of the CCCL, over the City right.of-
way, and the fact that City and ON R permits were never issued. 0 n April 11, 1991, an
Affidavit of Non-Compliance was submitted to MCEB and a $100 per day fine is being
assessed. The applicant has submitted an application for a permit to DNR. MCEB provided
the applicant with 90 days to comply with City and State requirements. To legitimize the
existing deck and allow its expansion, the separation variance request is a required
approval.
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Delayed in the pursuit of required approvals was due to the withdrawal of an offer
to purchase the facility. On August 13, 1991, P&Z will consider a conditional use permit
for change in business ownership.
The Planning Director indicated DCAB denied expansion but did approve the existing
deck, which essentially legitimizes the existing structure. It was indicated that approval
from the Department of Natural Resources is needed.
The City Manager questioned whether the City Commission can restrict alcoholic
beverages to inside the building. The City Attorney indicated they could but it would be
difficult to enforce. He said any conditions placed on approval would need to be
reasonable.
Alcoholic Beveraae Distance Seoaration Variance for Stinoer's located at 18443 and
18449 US 19N, Levitz Plaza, Units 4-6, Sec. 20-29-16, M&Bs 33.02 & 33.021 (Home
Shopping Network Realty, Inc. AB91-17) (PL&D)
The applicant is requesting an alcoholic beverage separation distance variance for a
new 4COP alcoholic beverage license designation to permit on premise consumption of
beer, wine and liquor. The proposed establishment, a nightclub, is to be located at the
Granes Plaza Shopping Center. According to the applicant, the proposed club will be an
upscale dance club catering to the social needs of people in their late twenties to early
fifties. The applicant plans to provide recorded music videos and live bands with musicians
and vocalists as on premise entertainment.
! ':) The applicant previously requested a site plan modification and alcoholic beverage
distance separation variance to locate this establishment in the Jersey Jim Towers
Shopping Center.
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This property is in an area presently zoned commercial center. The proposed
establishment will use an indoor seating capacity of 200 seats with no outdoor seating. A
balcony with 4,500 square feet of interior floor area is also proposed. The Fire Marshal
has determined the allowable seating capacity to be 200 seats. The shopping center is set
back from US 19N and has adequate parking spaces. Proposed hours of operation are 12
noon to 2 a.m. Mondays through Saturdays, and 1 p.m. to 2 8.m. on Sundays.
The nearest residentially zoned property is directly to the east of the shopping
center and zoned RPD-10 by Pinellas County. The nearest City zoned residential property
is approximately 400 feet north of the establishment.
The Planning Director indicated the Planning & Zoning Board had continued the
conditional use for this establishment until its August 13, 1991 meeting. He said parking
will be one of the issues.
Variance to Si9n Reaulations for oroosrtv (Atrium at Clearwater Sauare) located at 601
Cleveland St., Gould & Ewing 2nd Addn., Blk. 13, Lots '-4 & vacated alley &
unsubmerged land to E (Maria Real Estate, Inc. SV91-16) (PL&D)
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The applicant is requesting a variance to permit construction of additional signage
for identification of the Sun Bank building (to be known as Atrium at Clearwater Square)
and of the businesses within this nine-story building. The requested signage is primarily to
assist pedestrians in locating the building, and the businesses therein. The City's sign
survey found the existing signage meets the sign regulations,
The sign regulations restrict signage to business identification in the Urban Code
District [Sec. 1 34. 1 01 (3)]. This section appears to be designed to control signage for
developments of one or two stories with businesses side by side rather than above each
other in multi-story office buildings. There are no provisions for building identification signs
or property identification signs in the Urban Center Cord district. The sign regulations do
provide for such signs in other commercial and office districts.
Presently, the Sun Bank has two approved business identification signs at the top of
the applicant's building that are too high to assist pedestrians in identifying the building.
The applicant is requesting a building identification sign at street level to enable pedestrians
to more readily identify the building. The directory portion of the proposed sign is to assist
pedestrians in identifying businesses occupying the building without having to enter the
building to find a directory.
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The total area of the proposed signage could be considered as a single sign, or as
two signs, (a building identification sign and a directory sign). However, a building is not a
business establishment, and therefore, not entitled to a business identification sign, or any
signage, under current code requirements. This seems too restrictive and contrary to the
general intent of the sign regulations that includes in its purpose: "to enable the
identification of places or residence and business, and allow for the communication of
information for the conduct of commerce," The proposed request, appears to be aimed at
meeting these purposes. It seems appropriate to consider the portion of the proposed sign
identifying the building as a business identification sign for the property owners although
they do not have offices in the building. If this is done, the remainder of the proposed sign
is appropriately classified as a directory sign.
Business identification signs are permitted to be up to 48 square feet in the Core
Subdistrict. The surface area of the portion of the proposed sign identifying the building is
34.71 square feet, which is less than the maximum surface area allowed for a business
identification sign. For comparison purposes, the sign regulations allow building
identification signs up to 40 square feet in other commercial and office districts. The
portion of the proposed signage attributed to building identification appears to be
reasonable.
In the Core Subdistrict, one sign is permitted in proximity to any building entry to
identify the names and addresses of individual business establishments or occupants. This
signage is in addition to the business identification signage, but is limited to two square
feet per establishment or occupant, and to an overall area of six square feet. This
requirement hardly seems meant to deal with a multistory office building with many
occupants. The applicant is requesting four square feet of signage per business occupant
for up to ten occupants. He is proposing to use six-inch high letters to identify the
businesses. As the sign is aimed at pedestrians, this letter height seems excessive. It
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seems that letters three inches or less in height would be adequate for the intended
purpose. The overall dimensions of the directory portion of the proposed sign are 15'10"
X 6', giving an area of 95 square feet, or an average area of 9.5 square feet per occupant
rather than the four square feet requested in the application. (The application appears to
have blocked out each individual business name.) It is the staff's recommendation that if
the directory portion of the proposed signage is permitted, it should be reduced in area,
and that an overall limit be placed on the size of the directory sign and the size of the
letters; this would result in signage having a maximum of three-inch high letters and an
overall Brea of 56 square feet (approximately 13' X 4'3").
Concern was expressed regarding some of the sidewalk being contracted. It was
indicated this was a trade off as the added landscaping would be an enhancement.
Amendment to Sec. 72.15 concerning the Sale or Service of Alcoholic Beveraaes (PL&D)
The City Police Department has identified a practice concerning the service and
consumption of alcoholic beverages which, in effect "gets around" City regulations
concerning alcoholic beverages. Some restaurants complete the sale of alcoholic
beverages by 2:00 a.m. as required by City code but continue to allow customers to
consume these beverages after 2:00 a.m. The proposed ordinance would simply impose
the same conditions for alcoholic beverage service and consumption as are currently
imposed for alcoholic beverage sales.
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The City Attorney indicated this will not prevent alcoholic beverages from being
given away.
Aareement to enter the Infill Housina Proaram (PL&DJ
The Infill Housing Program is the constructing component of the "Challenge 2000"
partnership joining the City, lending institutions, and Clearwater Neighborhood Housing
Services (CNHS). The Agreement to Enter has been prepared to establish the rights and
responsibilities of the City, CNHS, and clients who will purchase the new homes. The Infill
Housing Program is highly individualized, with the house and lot selection tailored to the
client's wishes and financial capabilities. The purpose of the Agreement is to formalize the
steps that will lead to home ownership before any substantial funds are spent. Clients will
be screened for eligibility before the Agreement is presented, and only those who have
been approved by the CNHS loan committee will be invited to enter.
It is expected all seven clients presently enrolled in budgeting and home
maintenance classes will soon be ready to formally enter the program.
Concerns were expressed that some clients find it difficult to attend the courses
scheduled during working hours. Mr. Polatty indicated this would be investigated.
City Manaaer Verbal Reoorts
The City Manager reported the Center Foundation needs four Clearwater
representatives.
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He reported a draft mission statement for the Maas Brothers Task Force will be
available for the September 5, 1991 meeting.
The City Manager said it was time to schedule evaluations for the City Attorney and
the City Manager. The evaluations will be scheduled at Thursday night's meeting.
Qth~r Commission Action
Commissioner Fitzaerald reported at today's Tampa Bay Regional Planning Council
(TBRPC) meeting, a list of proposals was submitted. TBRPC is requesting comment from
all of the communities. He has given the list to the City Manager and indicated he will
come back to the City Commission for input.
Commis~ioner Nunamaker questioned the implications if the lower part of the Maas
Brothers property is used for a park and parking is removed.
Commissioner Fitzgerald reported a move was afoot to impose a retransmission
charge to networks by cable operators. Betty Deptula. Assistant City Manager, is to
provide more information.
Adiournment
The work session adjourned at 4:45 p.m.
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