12/16/1991 (2)
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WORKSESSION
. City Commission Worksession Minutes
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CITY COMMISSION WORK SESSION
Oecember 16, 1991
The City Commission of the City of Clearwater met at City Hall with the following
members present:
Rita Garvey
Sue Berfield
William Nunamaker
Richard Fitzgerald
Lee Regulski
Also present'were:
Kathy S. Rice
M.A. Galbraith, Jr.
Mary K. Diana
Mayor/Commissioner
Vice-Mayor/Commissioner
Commissioner
Commissioner
Commissioner
Deputy City Manager
City Attorney
Assistant City Clerk
Four service pins were awarded to City employees
The meeting was called to order at 9:00 a.m.
Emplovee of the Month
The December Employee of the Month Award was presented to Konrad McCree,
Maintenance Worker II in the Property Unit of the Police Department.
Presentation - Pier 60 DesiQn bv Camp Dresser & McKee
:. The City Manager stated several months ago Camp I Dresser & McKee (COM) were
given concepts developed by the Clearwater Beach Blue Ribbon Task Force for the
Pier 60 renovation project. He said, if these concepts are approved today, the
City will go out to bid.
Thomas Burke, COM, presented a diagram illustrating what is currently
existing and what is being proposed for Pier 60. He said the two basic divisions
of the project include structural modifications and architectural amenities. The
amenities include an entrance structure, a new baithouse and two-story covered
pavilions. He illustrated how the amenities were adapted into the overall
picture and said a detailed design, is being prepared. Depending on the approach,
the design could be completed in two to three months with permitting controlling
the overall project time frame for construction bids. The details and
organization of the project are in good shape; however, what is to be done and
how much is to be spent remain to be considered. The basic project is estimated
at $1.1 million with the amenities adding approximately $860,000 to the project.
He suggested finishing up the structural design and prioritizing the
architectural amenities for bidding as deductible alternatives. He said the
construction business is presently slow and bids may corne in lower than expected.
The construction period will take about 6 to 8 months. It is hoped the project
will be bid out in Mayor June. The turtle season which starts in September will
need to be considered when this project is being coordinated.
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In response to a question, the Harbormaster indicated the pier brings in
approximately $300,000 a year with September, October and November being the
slowest months. He said it is hoped expenditures will balance with revenues and
that last year there was a surplus of $2,000. Mr. Held indicated that capital
improvement programs for pier replacement and repair have cut into the profits.
It was felt the revenue from the pier should be kept separate, and it was
indicated this money is put into an enterprise fund which can only fund
renovations to the pier and can not be used for other projects.
It was indicated once the bids are received, a determination will be made
as to whether the City or a contractor wi 11 do the work. The City Manager
indicated the Rockaway Pier construction ;s complete and the City has just gone
to bid on the fishing pier with $1.3 million being available for construction.
In response to a question, it was indicated approximately $1.2 million is
available from Penny for Pinellas. There is a probability of increases when the
pier is completed to generate additional revenues.
Discussion ensued in regard to the motif to be used on the lands ide of the
pier. It was indicated wooden rails were being considered and also closing in
the pier on this side with panels. In response to a question, it was indicated
the deck would be of concrete, the balance would be of wood and the benches made
of a recycled plastic material.
It was pointed out that an elaborate baithouse was being proposed and a
question was raised as to what the rate of return will be from that investment.
The City Manager said a look would need to be taken at replacing what is
currently there versus what the enhancements will be. Discussion ensued in
regard to the baithouse design and it was indicated one-half of the area shown
on the diagram would be designated for the ba;thouse with an open space to the
west.
Steve Fowler, member of the Clearwater Beach Blue Ribbon Task Forcet found
the proposal to be a first rate job and commended COM. He said the approach of
bidding the architectural amenities as alternates is a good one and that this
approach was used for the Clearwater Sailing Center.
Consensus was to instruct staff to proceed with project.
Res. #91-44 - EstablishinQ the creation and operation of a City-Wide Wellness
ProQram (AS-l)
Due to increasing medical and insurance costs, many individuals and groups
are engaging in "wellness" programs designed to help individuals increase and
maintain physical health.
An ad hoc City Wellness Committee has been working since Apri 1 of this year
to determine if a wellness program for the City is desirable and feasible. The
long-term benefits of successful wellness programs are improved employee morale,
lower average cost per medical benefit claim and a healthier work force. Many
of the facilities and activities needed to support such a program are available
at low or no cost to City employees.
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Six factors important to the long term success of the program were
ident ified by the Committee: (1) Commission and Management support and
encouragement; (2) a central point of responsibility or coordinator; (3) an on-
going wellness educat ion and pub 1 icity act ivity; (4) a flex time work rule pol icy
to allow fitness activities during the work day; (5) health screening and program
tracking activities; and (6) eventual funding and construction of changing/work-
out facil ities convenient to the workplace. The Committee concluded that a
phased program could be implemented with the first five factors being addressed
immediately.
If the resolution is approved, the staff will develop the initial program
on a volunteer, part-time basis to start in late January.
Discussion ensued in regard to the City having tried this type of program
previously. Administrative Services Systems and Project Manager Val Mahan
indicated the elements of this program are different than in the past. There
will be continuing publicity and a point of responsibility will be assigned.
He said reports will be provided to the Commission on how the program is working.
A question was raised regarding the use of a base fitness scale for those
already participating in physical activities and for first timers. Mr. Mahan
indicated the details will be worked out at a later date. Questions were raised
as to costs associated with the program and how additional time off would be made
up. Concerns were expressed regarding the effect this would have on union
contracts and labor laws. It was indicated the City currently has a policy where
flex time can be used for certain reasons with supervisors' approval.
It was felt Section 4 of the resolution needed clarification regarding the
use of the lunch hour in addition to extra time.
A question was raised as to whether employees were taking advantage of the
counseling program being provided by the City. Deputy City Manager Kathy Rice
indicated over forty employees a month were using this program. Ms. Rice said
employees could use their own HMO doctors for any ongoing treatmentj however, the
details still need to be worked out.
A roval of Claims Service Contract and Revocable Trust A reement with Johns
Eastern Company. Inc. (AS-2
At the Commission meeting on September 27, 1991 the Commission authorized
the purchase of claims service at an estimated cost of $68,225 from Johns Eastern
Company, Inc. for fiscal year October 1, 1991 to October 1, 1992.
The contract incorporates a revocable trust agreement which provides for
the serv i c i ng agent to hold the City I S funds as the Ci ty' s Trustee. Thi s
agreement will provide additional protection to the City if the servicing agent
were to cease business for any reason while holding City funds.
Concern was expressed in regard to these funds being used for other
purposes. A question was raised' regarding what guarantees the City would have
against theft.
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remium bank account with CIGNA Health lan of
On September 27, 1991 the Commission approved the group health insurance
program with CIGNA Healthplan of Florida for calendar year 1992. This group
health ,insurance program requires the City to establish an ulmprest" account at
CIGNA's bank. The City will then be required to wire transfer funds to this
account as claims are paid by CIGNA but no more than once a week. This
arrangement will permit the City to keep the funds longer, rather than paying
them out in the form of insurance premiums.
This resolution wi 11 authorize the Finance Director to implement this
minimum funding program.
In response to a question, it was indicated there is control over these
funds.
Extension of GTE Franchise Term (AS-4)
The franchise agreement with the General Telephone Company (GTE) which
permits GTE to use the City rights-of-way for the placement and operation of its
systems expires January I, 1992. The City receives a 1 percent franchise fee
based on GTE local service revenues. For 1990, that fee base yielded revenues
of $182,888 to the City.
The City has been working with GTE to develop a clear, mutually acceptable
basis for discussions leading to a new franchise. Delays have been experienced
in obtaining all of the information necessary to these discussions. Staff and
GTE agree that discussions are not possible before the first of the year and may
require at least six months to complete. A new franchise can be in place by July
1, 1992, assuming successful negotiations.
The City Manager said the City wants to extend their GTE franchise by six
months. The City has been in contracted negotiations with GTE.
Deputy City Manager Rice said there is some need to extend this franchise
in an expedient manner and let GTE know the City is serious about negotiating.
Aareement with the Community Service Foundation establishinQ the Utilities We
Care Fund (AS-5)
As many people find it difficult to pay for basic services in the event of
,temporary financial emergencies, the Utilities Customer Support Office recommends
the creation of the Clearwater Uti Tities We Care Fund wherein Clearwater
uti 1 ities customers wi 11 be gi ven the opportunity to donate to a financial
assistance fund. If the program is approved, a leaflet will be included with the
Clearwater util ity hi 11 s starting December 20, 1991 offering customers the
opportunity to donate and offering three options. Donations will be mailed by
the customer with the utility bill and forwarded to the Utility Customer Support
Division. '
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The Community Service Foundation will administer the fund as outlined in
the Agreement. Eligible recipients wi 11 receive assistance as one payment
annually in an amount not to exceed $100.00. The City will be responsible for
collecting and forwarding funds to the foundation, publicity and conducting
inspections to assure proper operation of the fund.
The City will contribute $5,000 from miscellaneous social service agency
funding which is budgeted in the 1991/92 General Fund Non-Departmental
Department. A $5 per check admini strat i ve charge for each check issued to
qualified recipients by the Foundation will be charged to the We Care Fund.
There are other miscellaneous expenses of approximately $1,500 necessary for the
establishment of the Fund.
Carole Greiner, Customer Support Manager, said staff feels there is a need
for this type program and the City is proposing to begin a charitable donation
which will show up as a separate service on the utility bill.
Concern was expressed that the $5.00 per check administrative cost is
exceedingly high and it was indicated this amount includes everything from the
initial interview to a formal report whether or not there is an award. It was
felt the item did not reflect this. It was questioned whether the City is really
doing a service if 50 percent of the monies corning in are used for administrative
costs to run the program.
In response to a question, Ms. Greiner indicated the City has received over
$13,000 from various social service agencies. She indicated the City's write-
offs at this point amounted to approximately $59,000 out of about $48 million.
Concern was expressed if the program is started and people do not agree to
back the program the City will have to do so with City funds. It was indicated,
if the program is not successful, it will be discontinued.
East End Pro.iect ReQuest for Oualification for Developer Solicitation (ED-i)
The Request for Qual ificat ions (RFQ) for the IIEast Endll project and
authorization of the Community Redevelopment Agency (eRA) to act as agent for the
City Commission in the review and analysis of the responses to the RFQ represents
a significant benchmark in the downtown revitalization process.
In 1990, the CRA commissioned a downtown market assessment. The Request
for Proposal process which resulted in the selection of Hunter Interests Inc. of
Annapolis, Maryland was accomplished in a public manner with input from
interested downtown groups. In November, 1990, the Downtown Market Assessment
concluded that a mixed use project of 200,000 to 250,000 square feet would be
successful in the downtown which confirmed earlier demographic information.
In January 1991, staff began to assemble land in and around the Annex
property already owned by the City. The objective was to secure more regular
boundaries and to have access to Court Street. The land parcel was expanded from
approximately 15 acres to 20 acres. With the acquisition of the remaining
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parcels which will form a corridor to Court Street, land holdings will reach 25
acres.
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The RFQ is intended as a catalyst to stimulate development in the entire
downtown area and will be more effective than piecemeal activities focusing on
vacant stores as national retailers have demonstrated a preference for the
proximity of other retailers.
Regarding the new municipal complex, the City's space needs study concluded
that 130,000 square feet of space is needed. Should the Commission choose to
locate the camp lex in the East End Project, it would help the project by
injecting a critical mass of people who would support the adjoining retail and
enterta inment fac; 1 Hies. The camp lex wou ld also provide needed cash flow to the
developer and facilitate financing efforts.
The RFQ asks that the prospective developer detail the provisions of a
municipal complex arrangement with the City. When the terms are analyzed, a
determinat ion can be made as to whether such arrangements are financially
beneficial ta the City of if other alternatives are more advantageous. There is
no need for the Commission to endorse or commit to anything other than a
solicitation of proposals and concepts. The CRA acting as agent for the City
will reserve the right to accept or reject any and all proposals. No obligations
for acceptance are inherent in the process.
The CRA should be receptive and objective in evaluating the responses. The
development concept and redevelopment goals contained in the RFQ are designed
solely to solicit interest. There is no promise of subsidy or inducement that
would place the City on the same path taken by other communities. Instead, there
is an emphasis on innovative planning and financial strategies and techniques.
After spending over a year generating interest in this project and allocating DDB
and eRA funds to promote the endeavor, it is time to let the market react.
A question was raised regarding inaccuracies as the item indicates the CRA
owns the land. It was indicated this was incorrect and that the City owns the
land.
Extensive discussion ensued as to whether or not the City should spell out
parameters as to what it expects, whether ~he City should designate a location
for a new City Hall and whether the building of a new City Hall should be
separate from the redevelopment project.
Concern was expressed I if the City does not spe 11 out parameters, many se If
serving proposals would be received. It was indicated that given the current
budget crunch City Hall could not be built without raising taxes and it was
indicated the City has other assets; however, they are in selective properties.
The Commission received this item on Friday and wanted staff input and to have
time to discuss it with them.
Discussion ensued regarding whether a need for consolidation of services
exists. Consensus was there is a need for consolidation of services.
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This item was pulled to schedule public input at a later date. A special
work session will also be scheduled.
Staff was requested to look into lOBs (industrial development bonds).
Purchase of Supervisory Control & Data Acquisition System (SCADA) (GAS-I)
The purchase of the SCADA System will replace the Gas System's existing
telemetry monitor and control equipment that was purchased and installed in 1976.
The existing equipment has been rendered useless because of technological
advancement and the inability to obtain repair parts due to the manufacturer
discontinuance of any support to the system and its components. The SCADA System
will automatically control the gas pressure and flow at the Gas System's three
gate stat ions while monitoring the pressure throughout the system at remote
telemetry terminals. The monitoring and control of the gas flow and pressure are
even more essential now that gas ;s purchased on the spot market, and firm gas
from Florida Gas Transmission.
The C ; ty Manager sa i d parts cannot be obta i ned to keep the ex is t i ng
equipment running.
A question was raised regarding lease purchasing. Dan Deignan indicated
it is always advantageous for the City to lease purchase if it can be done as the
City can borrow at tax exempt rates and invest at taxable rates.
Gas Installation Finance ProQram (GAS-2)
\~~J The Gas Division is in need of a financing program which would allow new
residential gas customers to finance the installation charge for customers' house
piping at zero percent interest. House piping would include gas venting, gas
fitting, galv~nized pipe and copper tubing. This program would apply only to
installation charges incurred from using City work forces, which would be billed
using the normal utilities account billing procedures.
The Gas Division will offer a level line billing of $25.00 per month until
the balance is paid. The $25.00 approximates the monthly saving in energy
charges resulting in switching from electric to gas water heating. Customers who
convert to other gas appliances should realize a saving even while paying the
installments.
Customers who accept this offer would be subject to a credit check and
would be asked to sign our existing appliance contract, modified slightly to
reflect installation charge, legally required filing fees and no interest. The
down payment will be adjusted as necessary so that the balance due is evenly
divisible by $25.00.
Customers who close their account for any reason will be responsible for
paying the entire outstanding balance on their final bill, as is clearly
indicated on the signed contract. Liens will be recorded with the County and
re leased only when the contract is paid in full. The failure to make fu 11
payment will leave the lien in force, subject to collection when the property is
sold.
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This program would provide the needed incentive for connecting new gas
customers to our existing gas mains. The loss of interest and the potential
slight increase in uncollectible accounts appear to be a very modest cost for
what might be a significant marketing and public relation benefit.
In response to a question, it was indicated the cost of an installation in
the Grov~wood area is approximately $600 and would take about 24 months to pay
off. A question was raised as to what the City's upfront costs will be and the
City Manager indicated the City has approximately $1 million in the capital
improvement plan which could be used for working capital. This fund is currently
earning around 7-1/2 percent. The City Manager said money would be made off the
new installations from day one; all the City is doing is financing the capital
to make it more convenient for the customer. The philosophy is to broaden the
customer base as it is hoped gas air conditioning will become more practical in
the future. '
Purchase of GTE Norstar Electronic Telephone Svstem for Librarv Department
(LIB 1)
The Library Department has two separate telephone systems serving its
department which were installed 12 and 5 years ago.
A major purpose of the requested telephone equipment is to facilitate the
information central project which incorporates Action Center calls into Library
reference and referral services. A minimum of 125,000 calls are expected to be
processed through the system during its first year. The system will facilitate
~J~'-h proper call routing to the appropriate individual or department as we 11 as
~~, provide for efficient message management during and after hours.
In response to a question, it was indicated some of the employees from the
Action Center will be moving to the Library to enhance the information referral
center.
Carolyn Moore, Library Division Manager, indicated the two systems the
library presently has are not compatible with each other.
Marina Roof Replacement (G5-1)
The City Commission at its August 15, 1991 meeting awarded a contract to
Professional Services Industries for roof engineering and design consultant
services for the Marina, Fire Stations 1 and 4, the Shuffleboard Club, the Civic
Center, the Main Library, and Moccasin Lake Park.
The City Manager said the marina is a normal replacement item as the roof
is worn out.
Rental fees for SailinQ Center BuildinQ (MR-l)
Resolution 90-49 established the rental fees for certain public buildings
and went into effect on January 1, 1991.
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Due to the fact the Sailing Center building is like no other city building
for rent, city staff recommends the basic' rental fee for private and commercial
usage be increased to $150.00 per use times the number of days. In addition to
the basic rental fee, private and commercial renters would also pay for hourly
charges for utilities and personnel and for equipment usage. A requirement for
an off-duty police officer is necessary. The city rate for the police officer
will be the current overtime rate charged by the Police Department. A cleaning
deposit of $50.00 shall be paid in advance and the deposit to reserve the Sailing
Center building will be increased to $50.00.
In response to a question, it was indicated the off-duty police officer
would be used only for those events that an officer is deemed necessary.
Harbormaster Held said only private and commercial rentals will be affected.
Concern was expressed in regard to usurping the hotels and Mr. Held
indicated we would not be in competition with these hotels as they turn away a
lot of requests. In response to a question, it was indicated rental of this!
center would not adversely impact organizations such as the auxiliaries, etc.
that currently use it. Mr. Held indicated the marine related events would take
precedent over private parties.
Clearwater Ferrv Service. Inc. License and Agreement - Fourth Amendment (MR 2)
On August 2, 1989, the City entered into a license and agreement with
Clearwater ferry Service, Inc. to operate a cornmerci a 1 ferry service in
Clearwater Harbor from the Drew Street dock. Mr. Henderson has requested that
the City provide free ferry service from Drew Street to service points. He
estimated a cost of $37,800 a year to provide this service. Staff is
recommend i ng the serv; ce cant i nue to be pa i d for by the Clearwater Ferry $erv i Ce I
lnc.as part of Mr. Henderson1s license and agreement with the City. The Drew
Street dock ;s presently used by Mr. Henderson for Calades; Island trips, Tarpon
Springs trips, Admiral lunches and Dolphin Encounter trips.
In response to a question, Mr. Held indicated tHe 2:00 p.m. restriction
regarding the origination of passengers departing the marina is due to parking
concerns. Most of the fishing boats are gone by this time.
It was pointed out that concern had been expressed regarding the docking
location of the ferry. Mr. Held suggested that Mr. Henderson dock the ferry boat
in slip 148 which is close to the Admiral location and to have the ferry
passengers wait in that area and not restrict the dock. He felt this would not
be a problem based on current customer usage. Mr. Held said a determination
could be made within a year to see if things are working out.
In response to a question, it was indicated Mr. Henderson does not pay any
rent for the slips he currently uses. Mr. Held said as part of the license
agreement with the City for the ferry boats the parking fund pays for his slips
and this was done with the understanding that Mr. Henderson has spent $200,000
to build the dock in the downtown.
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A question was raised why Harbormaster approval is necessary for groups
boarding all boats with the exception of the Admiral. It was indicated this
amendment was requested by Mr. Henderson and nothing in this agreement would
restrict ordinary traffic riding the ferry; it would be just to control special
events.
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Xerox EQuipment Maintenance Agreement (PIO-l)
Recurr; og maintenance services are required on the copier equipment
purchased from Xerox Corporation. Equipment of this type is usually maintained
by the manufacturer through service technicians. Parts, supplies and technical
expertise are needed to ensure prompt, competent maintenance is performed. Xerox
has consistently provided this.
A question was raised, if the City has cut down on the number of copies
produced, and it was indicated there has been a declining trend.
Resolution 91-46 -Parks and Recreation New Non-resident Fees (PR-2)
On August 18, 1988, the City Commission approved a formula for the purpose
of computing fees non-residents pay for Parks &,Recreation Department programs.
While the Parks and Recreation Department1s budget has increased slightly,
there has also been an increase in budgeted revenue as well as the population
estimates for the City. These factors all contributed to keeping the non-
resident fees constant over the past three years. However, the projections for
FY 1991/92 will result in new fees for non-residents.
The recommended non-resident fee structure is as follows:
Current Proposed Difference
1. Annual Individual Card $ 49.00 $ 51. 00 + $2.00
2. Fall Individual Card $ 30.00 $ 31.00 + $1. 00
3. Annual Family Card $122.50 $127.50 + $5.00
4. Fa 11 Family Card $ 75.00 $ 77. 50 + $2.50
5. Single Season Fee $ 25.00 $ 30.00 + $5.00
It is estimated that these proposed changes will generate an additional
$11,000 in net revenue to the City. The recommended fees will be effective
January 1, 1992.
The City Manager reported the City is looking to raise non-resident fees
about 10 percent. He said an additional item will be brought forth after the
first of the year requesting the non-resident fee list be expanded.
Since the settlement of the Clearwater Pass Bridge in the summer of 1987,
the bridge has been continuously monitored by Kisinger, Campo and Associates
(KCA) and the Public Works Department. A special bay bottom examination ordered
by the City engineer after the wind storm event of April 25, 1991 determined that
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the storm had created additional serious erosion of the piling embediment. This
additional erosion resulted in the consultant's recommendation to install eight
additional steel crutch bents to maintain the safety and stabil ity of the
existing bridge structure. An additional part of the work will be to remove
approximately fifteen existing concrete piles from the original bridge bents
inasmuch as the bay bottom has eroded below the bottom of these pile tips.
It is anticipated the bridge will only be closed to traffic for short periods of
time during placement of beams and jacking operations. Upon approval of this
contract, field work is expected to begin in mid January and the contract time
for construction is 240 days.
In response to a question, Public Works Director Baker indicated the
fifteen piles to be removed are in places that have already been crutched and
they are beginning to dangle and have become a public safety concern. He said
the cost is minor in terms of the risk factor and the City has been advised to
remove them. j I
Purchase of Nine (9) diesel aenerators (PW 5)
long term power outages at traffic signals were a result of the April 25,
1991 storm. It was decided to provide ten (10) emergency generators at
signalized intersections in the event of another long term power outage. The
exact intersections would be determined at the time of the crisis.
The City Manager indicated this equipment would free up manpower when there
are emergency situations.
Police Chief Sid Klein said that Public Works has a maintenance program
whereby they test all the generators. He indicated this purchase will allow for
the best use of personnel in case of emergency situations.
Discussion ensued regarding the use of diesel over gas generators and it
was determined diesels were more preferable and lasted longer.
Water and Sewer Rate Increases (PW-7)
The current water and sewer rates were approved by the City Commission in
July, 1988. Since that time several significant changes as summarized in the
study by Camp Dresser & McKee, Inc. (COM) have occurred:
. Water purchases from Pinellas County have increased from 63% to 80%
of our usage;
. Total water consumption has decreased approximately 13% from 15.48
MGD to 13.45 MGD;
. System debt service has increased form 14% of revenues to 27% of
revenues; these costs have increased from $3,972,675 in 1988 to
$7,334,438 in fiscal 1991 and are primarily related to costs of the
new mandated wastewater treatment plant construction.
. Chemical and electrical costs for wastewater treatn\ent have
increased 34% from $0.315 to $0.422/1000 gallons.
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Current ordinances allow the City to adjust the water rates periodically
to recover any increased costs to supply water due to the changes ;n the
wholesale rate the City pays to the County for water. This IIpass throughl1
procedure resu 1ts ;n changing the actua 1 water rates. Two County~ instigated rate
increases have been "passed throughll to our customers and are not reflected in
our printed Code of Ordinances. The language in the proposed Ordinance 5162-91
includes all changes to date.
The sewer rates which were adopted in 1988 included a phased, multi-year
schedule which provided for annual increases the last of which was effective on
October 1, 1991.
The Water and Sewer Rate Study analyzes two approaches to the increases:
1) a flat increase of approximately 13% for water and approximately 22% for sewer,
effective February 1, 1992 and continue at the same rate through September 30,
1994; and 2) the recommended phased increase as follows:
Water
Sewer
2/1/92
6.6%
7.2%
10/1/92
6.8%
9.5%
10/1/93
7.7%
13.2%
A modification to the existing lawn water rate structure is recommended in
order to encourage further conservation.
Thomas Burke and Diane Kemp from Camp, Dresser & McKee reviewed the rate
study. The recommendation is for a change in the rate structure for lawn
{~~ irrigation customers but continuing with the existing rate structure for water
~~~ and sewer customers but with an adjustment in the rates for those customers.
A question was raised regarding the City of Clearwater's sprinkling
restrict ions. The City Manager indicated a recommendation wou ld be brought
forward for twice a week watering and a recommendat ion for the City to
participate with the county and Southwest Florida Water Management District
(SWFWMD) in installing conservation devices in houses sometime in January.
Mr. Burke said the cost of water for irrigation purposes is higher than for
other purposes. He said a capacity fee was considered; however, was not felt to
be appropriate at this time. He said a new computerized accounting system has
been implemented which will provide better information for consideration of
alternate rate structures.
Discussion ensued in reg~rd to the minimum charge for water and gradually
eliminating this charge over the next couple of years and changing the base
facility charge to cover the costs associated with billing, reading, etc. A
question was raised what other cities in the area charge minimum rates. The
cities of St. Petersburg, Dunedin, Safety Harbor and the County have been
contacted.
It was indicated the City is buying and using more water from the County
than the 10 million gallons per day allocation. It was felt a straight forward
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presentation should be presented for the citizens giving the basic fundamental
detai1s of the study communicating very clearly what the problem is, where the
problem came from and why this solution is being considered to solve the problem.
Ordinance #5142-91 - Park Place DRI
The Commission approved the modification of the Development Order
(Ordinance #5142-91) on first reading at its November 4t 1991 special meeting.
The Commission will be asked to consider the applicant's arguments that the
proposed changes to the Park Place DR! do not constitute a substantial deviation
from the original DRI. At this timet staff feels the proposed changes do DQ1
constitute a substantial deviation since: a) Service impacts are lessened from
the original level of development allowed under the original DRI approval; and
b) The applicant has demonstrated reasonable progress, given market conditions,
in proceeding with the continued development of the site. The ,Planning and
Zoning Board has accepted staff's determination that no substantial deviation is
created by the proposed changes.
The original development order for Park Place permitted a project with a
maximum floor area of 1,253,000 sq.ft. to be developed in three phases, with
build-out in 1991. The applicant now proposes to develop the subject site with
retail, office and industrial uses. The applicant also proposes to change from
three phases to one phase, Phase A, with an extension of build-out date from 1991
to 1996.
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The only infrastructure/service issue of concern for this development is
traff i c generat i on. Other serv ices, i nc 1 ud i ng f ire protect i on, so 1 i d waste
disposal, and water/sewer services are judged adequate for this site. The
applicant maintains the proposed change in land use and floor area is not
substantive with regard to traffic generation because the overall floor area of
the project is reduced and because the traffic generation potential of industrial
uses is less, on a per square foot basis, than office uses. The applicant has
submitted a traffic analysis that supports this claim. The Planning and
Development Department staff generally concur with the applicant in this
assessment and feel that this component of the proposed change does not represent
a substantial deviation.
Regarding build-out datet staff feels reasonable progress has been made
toward completion of the original development order. If the build-out date is
extended, there would be some implications for the off-site improvements required
by the original development order. Certain road improvements have been completed
and others are in construction. The applicant proposes to pay to the City the
total amount required for Phases II and III, together with interest as required
in the development order within 180 days after the effective date of the
amendments to the development order.
Planning & Development Director Polatty said that Attorney Johnson is still
negotiating with the Tampa Bay Regional Planning Council and there will be more
changes corning. Traffic is still a concern.
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Ordinance #5145-91 - Rezoning for Loehmann's Plaza. Lots 1 & 2. located on NW
corner of NE Coachman Rd. and US19N (Wal-Mart Z91-02)
Mr. Polatty stated there is an undeveloped outparcel in the southwest
corner of the site and the owner submitted a conditional application on Friday
asking for a separate curb cut. A motion to amend will be needed to eliminate
the parcel. There will be a city initiated rezoning on this outparcel.
Ordinance 5161-91 - Charter Amendment re Bavfront
Concern was expressed regarding the charter question not having the correct
legal description as it is indicated the land goes from Drew Street to Chestnut
Street and the detailed description stops at Pierce Street; the 28-foot line is
not included. The City Attorney said the state limits the number of words for
ballot questions.
A question arose as to whether the area should be redefined. It was
indicated this item is related to the tennis court amendment and ;s separate from
the 28-foot issue.
Verbal
The City Manager asked direction from the Commission as there was some
concern expressed by the Maas Brothers Task Force as to how detailed a report the
Commission wants. He advised them to provide a conceptual report and the
Commission agreed. The City Manager requested an attendance report of the Maas
Brothers Task Force be provided to the Commission.
Deputy City Manager Kathy Rice presented a memo from Bill Jonson,
Chairperson, Environmental Advisory Committee/recommending the Municipal and
Industrial Permitting NPDES Contracts go forward with certain understandings.
Other Commission Action
Mayor Garvey said Ed Mazur, Chairman of the Maas Brothers Task Force, has
resigned from the Environmental Advisory Committee.
Commi ss ioner Nunamaker expressed concern regarding the Maas Brothers
parking lot being used as a car lot.
Commissioner Regulski asked if there are any plans for landscaping outside
the treatment plant on Gulf-to-Bay Boulevard and it was indicated landscaping is
part of the Causeway project.
Commissioner Fitzgerald spoke in regard to the "PEDC Month" proclamation
and recommended the City prepare. He spoke in support of a resolution objecting
to the revising of the disposition of civil penalty fines.
Commissioner Regulski said questions have been raised from the County that
the City has not made a decision as to where the Pinellas Trail is to go in
Clearwater. The City Manager said he and the Deputy City Manager have met with
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the County Administrator. Mr. Wright said the County Administrator is satisfied
with the City's written recommendation. '
Mayor Garvey said she was disturbed by an editorial on Lake Chautauqua that
the City should clean up the lake. The people that live around the lake did not
pay for the capacity in the City1s sewer system. If the City cleans up the lake,
they are doing it for the community; for the taxpayers. Support was given by the
Commission for the City Manager's position on this issue. .
The work session adjourned at 1:15 p.m.
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