06/05/1995 (2)
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CITY COMMISSION SPECIAL MEETING
Beach Redevelopment Issues
June 5, 1995
The City Commission of the City of Clearwater met in special session at City Hall,
Monday, June 5. 1995 at 7:00 p.m., with the following members present:
Rita Garvey
Sue A. Berfield
Fred A. Thomas
J. B. Johnson
Mayor ICommissioner
Vice-Mayor ICommissioner
Commissioner
Commissioner
Also present:
Elizabeth M. Deptula
Kathy S. Rice
William C. Baker
Pamela K. Akin
Scott Shuford
Rich Baier
Cynthia E. Goudeau
Patricia Sullivan
City Manager
Deputy City Manager
Assistant City Manager
City Attorney
Central Permitting Director
City Engineer
City Clerk
Board Reporter
The purpose of the meeting is to discuss identified beach issues.
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The Mayor called the meeting to order.
City Manager Elizabeth Deptula said during the last six months, the City
Commission has reviewed beach issues: 1) tourism promotion; 2) parking meter fees. fines,
and times; 3) parking structures; 4) special taxing options; and 5) redevelopment. Actions
taken include: 1) Part one of the surveys commissioned with Bordner Research. Inc. to see
if Clearwater's tourist profile is the same as the County's distributed to the City
Commission on March 3, 1995; 2) Visitor comment cards scheduled after completion of
Bordner study phase 2; 3) Convention and Visitors' Bureau (CVB) FY 1994/95 budget
distributed to City Commission during week of February 21. 1995; 4) City has received
preliminary approval from FDOT to put additional signage on SR 60 and US 19N
northbound and southbound where they intersect; 5) Staff's copy of State's study found
no standard set of international symbols; 6) Staff is revising nine signs with prohibition
slash through automobile to indicate oversize spaces and five signs with motorcycle
symbol to indicate motorcycle spaces; 7) Staff developed first draft concept of slick
brochure listing aI/local activities and is reviewing it with Graphics; 8) Staff met with
Chamber of Commerce to coordinate efforts to include City brochure in next year's
Chamber booklet; 9) Completed video promoting Clearwater to be distributed through the
Chamber of Commerce and the CVB; 10) Meetings held with beach parking enforcement
officers and police service technicians to discuss and seek solutions to negative image of
City's parking enforcement. Basics of customer relations also discussed. Appropriate staff
members to be scheduled for public relations training; 11) Parking enforcement personnel
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given discretion to issue written warning instead of parking ticket for minor violation and
authorized to void parking ticket under certain conditions, i.e., when a violator approaches
whUe ticket is being written; 12) Appointment being scheduled with Information Station
Express vendor for State of Florida Welcome Centers; 13) Sunsets at Pier 60 celebration
organized as a special event similar to daily sunset celebration at Key West; 14) Sign
inventory completed. 20% of all City signage on the beach (including Island Estates)
changed out; 15) Staff obtained quotes for decals to affix to parking meters showing cost
and hours of enforcement; 1 6) Staff communicated with parking consultants, Larry
Donoghue Associates, Inc., to discuss Clearwater's beach parking situation; and 17) Staff
met with representatives of Robotic Parking.
Ms. Deptula reported when the bridge to Sand Key closes, now scheduled for the
week of August 6, 1995, a ferry service, free to residents and tourists, will sail between a
temporary dock at the Sailing Center and the Marina. The ferry service, which will be
addressed on next week's City Commission agenda, will cost $965 per day. The Design
Review board has been established to foster the tropical seascape theme on Clearwater
beach. The board will develop guidelines to be approved by the Commission.
Central Permitting Director Scott Shuford said much has been accomplished in the
regulatory area. Two redevelopment plans have been prepared and many physical
improvements have taken place. The Jolley Trolley is operating. An ordinance requiring
retail on the first floor of any parking structure has been drafted. Costs to acquire and
develop a waterfront park site on the north side of Papaya Street are estimated at
$750,000.
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The tourism video produced by C-View staff was presented. Ms. Deptula said the
tape will be available for distribution. She hoped it would be sent throughout the country.
The Chamber of Commerce has inqicated they will present it at travel shows they attend.
Carol Ketterhagen. Executive Director of the Convention and Visitor's Bureau, is
enthusiastic about the video.
Commissioner Thomas requested staff provide the Commission with a short list of
projects that would provide the Ubiggest bang for the buck" on the beach. He also
requested staff to recommend a list of mid and long range projects.
The City Manager referred to complaints regarding high fines and inadequate beach
parking. She said use of beach parking lots decreases between winter, spring and summer
crowds. Ms. Deptula suggested halving parking rates during the approximately five
months of low tourism levels to encourage visits by local residents. The City Manager also
suggested parking enforcement officers could provide minimal extra time for vehicles
parked at expired meters and advertise this consideration with notes under windshield
wipers. Ms. Deptula felt parking fines should be a penalty and opposed reducing them. If
the fines were reduced, she suggested continuing to fund school crossing guards with $5
from each fine. She stated resident decals need to be promoted and suggested the rate
could be reduced. She said the City has tried to address complaints regarding the attitude
of parking enforcement officers.
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The Mayor noted the costs of these ideas had not been calculated. She agreed
fines should not be lowered. Commissioner Johnson agreed reduced off.season parking
rates may be a reasonable proposition.
Commissioner Thomas questioned if staff had investigated electronic parking meters
that accept credit cards. Deputy City Manager Kathy Rice said those meters are expensive
and noted questions regarding their efficient operation under beach conditions.
Commissioner Thomas said parking is the most important issue on the beach. He felt
discounting parking fees during off season makes sense as a short term goal. He suggested
the grace period not exceed 15 minutes and said staff should not be provided cash for this
purpose.
Commissioner Thomas recommended not reducing the parking decal rate until decals
are promoted. He said they would be a viable product if they permitted free parking at all City
parking lots and meters except at the downtown garages. The Mayor noted City parking
meters only are located downtown and on Clearwater beach. Commissioner Thomas
suggested allowing decals to be purchased through the mail for Clearwater residents and lower
rates during the slow season. He noted decals will not guarantee the bearer a parking space.
Consensus was to investigate the issuance of parking decals valid City-wide with
variable rates depending on the season.
The City Manager agreed decals will not guarantee parking spaces.
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Consensus was against lowering the rate of parking fines.
The City Manager suggested leaving a timed and dated card that includes a City
greeting and refers to the grace period provided for parking. Commissioner Berfield
recommended using perforated cards so the City can retain records of this activity and prove
cooperation. The City Manager said the State and tag number could be noted.
Consensus was to pursue pre-printing perforated cards to provide a 1 5 minute grace
period for cars parked at expired meters.
The City Manager said it would be easiest to reduce rates at beach attendant lots as
recalibrating meters would require many staff hours. The Mayor suggested a pilot program
could be implemented in the attendant lots. She questioned staff's suggestion to reduce rates
during certain times of the year. The City Manager said half-priced parking could cost $0.25,
$0.35, and $0.50 per hour.
Commissioner Thomas expressed concern regarding the variable rates and hours of
parking enforcement on the beach. He recommended installing signs on posts that can be
read at night and list the cost and hours of enforcement. The City Manager said a black and
yellow decal has been designed for placement on the parking meter windows. Commissioner
Thomas recommended standardizing the parking meter rate on the beach. The Mayor noted
the Commission had agreed previously that the rates and times should not be changed.
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Commissioner Thomas expressed concern that parking rates differ on opposite sides
of the street. The Mayor noted, after a recent discussion, the Commission had decided to
leave the rates and times of enforcement in place. Commissioner Thomas felt the subject
should be addressed again. He suggested motorists do not park on the side of the street with
the more expensive meters.
Commissioner Barfield questioned why parking times differ between meters. The City
Manager said the variable times were established by the City Commission based on area
merchant concerns and the Police Chief's proposals to regulate certain activities.
Commissioner Berfield suggested extending parking hours late enough to meet all merchant
concerns. She questioned if reducing rates would help merchants. The City Manager said she
would ask the Police Chief for recommendations. Commissioner Thomas requested staff
consider establishing a uniform parking time.
Anne Garris said one reason parking times differ is to reduce activities next to motels
that might keep visitors awake. She noted Mandalay Avenue restaurants depend on parking
and recommended discontinuing enforcement at 6:00 p.m. 50 diners are not interrupted.
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Marysia Coates said she owns several beach businesses and lives on Island Estates.
She felt additional beach parking is not needed. She said during season, many tourists stay
off the beaches because they are filled with day visitors who bring hampers and do not
patronize beach stores. Ms. Coates recommended the City encourage more tourist trade on
the beach. She felt lowering parking fees would not help the beach economy and noted day
visitors drive from as far away as Orlando. She said too many parking spaces, which attract
day visitors, already exist on the beach.
David Uttle noted improvement in the way parking enforcement officers treat people.
He said traffic at the south beach parking lot often backs up as motorists try to enter the Pier
60 lot. He suggested reversing the point of entry would encourage drivers to use the south
beach parking lot. Mr. Little recommended promoting Clearwater beach's parking and that the
lots are open at night. He spoke in favor of establishing a warning period for parking
violations.
Kaz Rolweski said the main problem on the beach is a Jack of tourism. He suggested
the City increase advertising instead of dropping parking rates. He recommended increasing
parking fees to use for advertising.
Kenneth Rosenow noted this meeting was scheduled to discuss ways to improve
tourism on Clearwater beach and questioned if visitors from Tampa, Orlando, etc. are
considered tourists. He said day visitors do not support beach businesses. He opposed
lowering parking fees and recommended Clearwater residents receive free decals. He felt
Clearwater residents would patronize beach businesses more if the beach wasn't crowded
with out of town day visitors. He stated out of town day visitors should be charged more to
park on the beach. He noted tourists have no parking problems because motels provide space
for them. Tourists should be encouraged to visit. He said people from Tampa and Pasco
County use Clearwater's beach without paying for it.
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The Mayor questioned why tourists would be upset if day trippers use Clearwater's
parking lots. Dr. Rosenow said tourists are unable to move around on the beach because of
heavy congestion. He said the City's beach parking lots draw day visitors and should charge
day visitors a premium.
Commissioner Thomas said he had no interest in establishing a special fee for day
trippers. Dr. Rosenow felt many people avoid Clearwater beach due to congestion.
Commissioner Thomas questioned why day visitors from Tampa would not support beach
merchants while Clearwater residents would. Dr. Rosenow said Clearwater residents own the
beach and day trippers taka the beach away from residents.
Commissioner Thomas felt providing parking passes would be greatly beneficial for
Clearwater residents. He said Clearwater does not want to act biased against out of town
visitors. Dr. Rosenow said he wanted beach businesses to improve and noted as a
metropolitan area grows, the closest beach attracts metropolitan residents, not tourists. The
Mayor suggested many visitors from Tampa and Lakeland recommend Clearwater beach to
their friends and relatives. Dr. Rosenow noted many day visitors are from Tampa. He
suggested if they had been recommending Clearwater beach, beach business would have
improved.
Commissioner Berfield questioned how many day trippers are hotel guests on
Clearwater's mainland. Dr. Rosenow agreed some are. Commissioner Berfield questioned if
a recommendation had been made to provide parking permits for guests of mainland hotels.
Dr. Rosenow said day trippers do not replace the income from tourists who stay for eight
nights. He said parking is not the problem.
.,..,.1 Commissioner Thomas recommended instituting common fates and times on beach
parking meters. He suggested instead of reducing parking rates. the City should invest half
of the beach parking revenues in advertising. He supported providing parking passes to City
residents. Commissioner Thomas recommended installing change machines in various places
around the parking lots. Mr. Shuford said the City has installed change machines in the north
lot and on Sand Key. The City Manager questioned if the Commission felt the uniform rate
should be $1 an hour. Commissioner Thomas said he did and indicated he also supported
parking passes. The City Manager expressed concern that businesses on Mandalay Avenue
may be negatively affected with $1 an hour parking rates. Commissioner Thomas suggested
installing change machines in the Mandalay Avenue vicinity.
Chuck Pollick said the Tourism Council has addressed tourism problems on Clearwater
beach. He said some newspapers have written that the City does not treat visitors well. He
said parking concerns blend with other tourism issues. He noted more sophisticated parking
meters are available. He recommended the parking fees remain at their present level and part
of the revenues be used for promotion.
Commissioner Thomas recommended parking at two or three spaces in front of the
marina Post Office should be free and limited to five or ten minutes to meet the needs of
postal patrons. Commissioner Serfield expressed concern other marina users would park
there. Commissioner Thomas agreed the parking should not be free. The Mayor noted marina
businesses can purchase half and full day parking permits. Mr. Pollick expressed concern
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regarding abuse of half day parking passes sold for fishing fleet patrons. When the abuse was
discovered, a procedure was instituted to make certain the permit holder boards a boat.
Commissioner Berfield questioned if marina merchants could purchase parking stickers
for their staff. The City Manager noted resident decals could not be valid for parking in the
marina lot because of the limited space there.
David Little spoke against limiting parking permits to Clearwater residents and
suggested those who work in the City also should qualify for a permit. Commissioner Thomas
agreed business owners want to provide employee parking. He requested staff investigate the
possibility of issuing business employee parking passes for certain areas of the beach. Mr.
Little suggested permits could be limited by season and parking lot.
Commissioner Thomas reiterated his recommendation to establish uniform fees and
times for beach parking. He suggested parking fees could be used to promote tourism on the
beach.
The Mayor requested more time to consider the proposal. Commissioner Johnson
Questioned why the present hours should be changed if they work. He said people do not
seem to want change. Commissioner Thomas said nothing regarding cars. works on the
beach. The Mayor said the system works well when there are no crowds. She agreed traffic
flow breaks down when there are crowds. Commissioner Thomas recommended establishing
a transportation system that uses downtown parking spaces.
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The Mayor said nothing would be accomplished by establishing uniform parking times
and fees. She said the reasons for the variations already have been established. She pointed
out less frequently used spaces, further from the beach, cost less. Commissioner Barfield
questioned why fees of $0.50 and $0.75 exist on the same block. Commissioner Thomas
agreed that was not logical. The Mayor noted the Commission spent several hours discussing
beach parking fees six months ago. Commissioner Thomas reiterated that uniform costs and
enforcement times should be established for beach parking and suggested using the revenues
to promote the beach. The Mayor pointed out that she and Commissioner Johnson opposed
those changes. Commissioner Berfield said she would like the issue to be reviewed and noted
the City Manager has indicated she will discuss this matter with the Police Chief. She said
the Commission needs to direct staff to look at using parking revenues to promote the beach.
Commissioner Thomas said if the City can make it easier for residents to get a parking
pass, it Is a giant leap forward for citizens. He said establishment of a uniform parking rate
would not impact the resident decal issue. Mayor Garvey said motorists with resident decals
Bre not guaranteed parking spaces. Commissioner Thomas suggested decal parking be valid
for all City lots and meters.
Mayor Garvey questioned what would be accomplished by using parking revenues to
increase the advertising budget. Commissioner Berfield questioned if parking rates were
increased, how much would be dedicated to promotion. She said Chief Klein needs to report
on the time issue. Commissioner Thomas suggested revenues generated by increasing all
rates to $1 an hour could be set aside for promotion. He questioned if parking revenues have
declined since attendant parking was initiated. The Mayor said attendant parking was initiated
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as a trial program before the City justified the expenditure of making permanent changes to
the lots. Commissioner Thomas said attendant lots are morB user friendly. Commissioner
Berfield said before parking fines were increased, many all day visitors found the cost of a
ticket was less than feeding the meter.
The City Manager reviewed Commission requests for staff to address the following
issues: 1) ways to market residential decals; 2) establishment of a 1 5 minute grace period; 3)
possibility of uniform hours and fees, including the reason for the present policy; and 4) an
analysis of attendant parking. Commissioner Thomas requested staff look at using parking
revenues to promote Clearwater beach. Commissioner Berfield noted the positive comment
made regarding the improvement in the parking enforcement officers' attitude.
Commissioner Thomas requested staff present a long term solution to parking needs
on the beach. Mr. Shuford explained no staff members have the expertise or time to conduct
a long range parking needs study. He reported Pelican Walk has proposed a shared project
for a parking garage. He recommended contracting a consultant to review beach parking
issues. The Mayor questioned if Pelican Walk would continue the project without City
support. Mr. Shuford said the Pelican Walk project could be included in the study. The City
needs an analysis of where additional parking should be located and if it is needed. He noted
lots generally fill to only 30% to 40% of capacity during most of the year. Mr. Shuford
recommended planning around tourist peaks. He suggested tieing any new parking facility to
the surrounding environment. He agreed current parking is convenient for day trippers. Mr.
Shuford noted a need for traffic movement past beach shops and restaurants and suggested
a parking garage site a short distance from the beach would direct pedestrian traffic by shops.
Commissioner Thomas questioned if experts in the field of parking could make
I'!:~~,:) recommendations and estimate costs. Mr. Shuford said they could. City Engineer Rich Baier
reported he had worked previously with Donoghue and Associates, consultants in this area
of expertise. He estimated the study would cost between $20,000 and $40,000 and take
four to six months. Mayor Garvey questioned which areas would be reviewed. Mr. Baier said
all parking issues need to be reviewed and suggested the study encompass Downtown. He
said a parking study by Donoghue and Associates completed for the downtown garage project
would provide some baseline data.
Commissioner Thomas felt a study of downtown and beach parking would be
worthwhile. He pointed out that downtown garages are almost empty on weekends and the
Jolley Trolley cannot reach the beach due to heavy traffic. He suggested designing a route
for the Trolley to bypass traffic when travelling between the downtown garages and beach.
He recommended the study address all downtown and beach parking. The Mayor requested
taking a beach garage off the table if the study indicates one is not feasible. Mr. Baier said
a quick feasibility study completed by staff to review revenues indicated a one story garage
on the beach was reasonable, but further study is needed.
Commissioner Johnson questioned if the City should commission a parking feasibility
study. Mr. Shuford said if the City is considering removing some back out parking, a
consultant's study would be necessary to review possibilities. Commissioner Thomas said he
did not think back out parking should be eliminated. The Mayor agreed some should remain.
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Consensus was that some back out parking should remain.
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Commissioner Thomas questioned if a Request for Proposals (RFQ) would be necessary
for the study. Mr. Baier suggested the City would need to issue either an RFP or a Request
for Qualifications (RFQ).
Anne Garris said the way to rescue beach tourism is to have less parking. She urged
the Commission to meet with Keith Crawford regarding a mechanism that could stop
Causeway traffic to allow the Trolley to enter or exit the access road. She objected to the
City spending between $20,000 and $40,000 to be told where to build a parking garage on
the beach. She said the Commission should limit beach parking and increase public
transportation. Ms. Garris recommended transforming current beach parking lots into grassy
areas. She noted no automobile traffic is allowed on Caledesi island, a beautiful destination,
and recommended similar limits on Clearwater beach.
Steve Fowler. architect far Pelican Walk, indicated they are prepared to construct a
garage that will hold 450 cars. He said Pelican Walk is ready to negotiate with the City to
build the garage and lease it to the City. Commissioner Thomas requested Pelican Walk bring
their proposal forward. Mr. Fowler indicated they want to meet with staff. The Mayor
suggested that may be a plausible alternative and noted the proposed site is vacant. Mr.
Fowler expressed concerns the study may reject plans for a beach parking garage.
Consensus was for Pelican Walk to proceed to work with staff.
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eill Sykes said a solution needs to be realized. He said until now, hotel/motel owners
were responsible for the care, custody and control of backout parking in front of their
properties. He said spaces are assigned by number to guests. Commissioner Thomas said
no one can rent space on City land. The Mayor said the appropriate staff member will address
Mr. Sykes' concern.
Dr. Rosenow questioned who has the authority to tow a vehicle parked illegally in a
motel's numbered space. He indicated motels feel they have lost the ability to call a wrecking
service regarding such vehicles.
John Doran said he no longer supports a beach parking garage. He said the number
of current spaces should not be reduced and encouraged proceeding with the study.
Commissioner Thomas suggested the study also address Sunshine Mall to consider
mass transportation solutions to alleviate parking pressures on the beach and downtown. He
said the study should encompass everything about parking. The Mayor expressed concern
that the City may not be ready to address a study that large. She said addressing mass
transportation needs would require more money and time. Commissioner Thomas suggested
the Jolley Trolley could be used. The City Manager said adding variables will increase the
study's cost. Mr. Baier indicated remote locations were not included in the estimate.
Commissioner Thomas said including the lowest cost parking in the downtown vicinity and
mass transit in the study was more important than considering a proper location for a beach
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parking garage. The Mayor recommended limiting the study's scope. Commissioner Barfield
questioned the cost and added time that would result from extending the study's area. Mr.
Baier said he would provide that information.
The Commission recessed from 9:00 to 9:11 p.m.
Mr. Shuford stated five potential short term projects have been identified for beach
redevelopment. He recommended assigning two projects to sources other than City staff.
He suggested the beach area identification design could include a tropical seascape logo that
decorates banners, is imbedded in sidewalks or appears on information kiosks that provide
information on nearby shops. He suggested the Clearwater Beach Association and the
Beaches and Tourism Council provide input on its creation. The Mayor requested beach
groups interested in this project contact Mr. Shuford. Mr. Shuford suggested groups could
also help design a brochure to promote beach businesses andlor the beach in general.
Mr. Sykes distributed photographs incorporating ideas that could be used locally. Mr.
Shuford thanked Mr. Sykes and noted most of the examples included pedestrian streetscape
themes that make streets more attractive to pedestrians.
Mr. Shuford said three pilot projects have been presented for Commission consideration
and noted some opposition exists to each proposal. He suggested establishing a temporary
pedestrian area on Papaya Street one block east and west of Mandalay Avenue where arts,
crafts, and other shows could be scheduled. Mr. Shuford predicted the demonstration project
would attract pedestrians to the heart of Clearwater beach and indicated spin off shows from
the Sunsets at Pier 60 could occur.
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Mr. Shuford said a streetscape project on Baymont Street could provide a tangible
example of a streetscape effect without impacting other streets. He said the Commission
needs to decide whether to streetscape Mandalay Avenue. He requested if the Commission
prefers more dramatic landscaping; they should provide that direction now. He did not want
staff to install a modest streetscape now and have to remove it in two years. He noted
options include two-lanes with parking, four~lanes without parking and variable parking. He
suggested the Commission may want to delay a decision until the parking study is completed.
Mr. Shuford said no suggestions offer a quick fix for the East Shore Drive area. He suggested
a feasibility study address major redevelopment there.
Mayor Garvey questioned if variable parking on Mandalay Avenue would impact the
parking study. Mr. Shuford did not think that proposal was practical as all four lanes will be
needed to handle traffic year round.
Commissioner Thomas said Pelican Walk's offer to construct 450 parking spaces will
more than make up for any parking spaces removed. After review of some examples of
suggested major streetscape improvements, Commissioner Thomas expressed concern that
the stores on the west side of Mandalay Avenue are not attractive and property owners should
be pressured to upgrade those storefronts. Mr. Shuford said the best staff can do is force
compliance with minimum maintenance standards.
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Commissioner Thomas voiced his support for widened sidewalks but suggested the
stocking of stores be permitted during certain hours. He reiterated that removal of parking
spaces should cause no problems as long as the Pelican Walk garage is constructed. Mr.
Shuford said various things can be done to permit loading and offered to return with
schematics.
Commissioner Johnson questioned if the water tank could be beautified. Mr. Shuford
indicated staff had not addressed the suggestion to paint it.
The Mayor expressed frustration at how 9reat the pictures look without street light
poles and power lines. Mr. Shuford referred to staff plans to bury the lines. Commissioner
Thomas agreed that action would result in a massive improvement. The Mayor suggested
delaying removal of parking spaces until after the Pelican Walk parking garage is complete.
Commissioner Thomas suggested both projects be done simultaneously. He said chaos would
result if current parking is removed before it is replaced. Commissioner Johnson agreed with
proceeding with the joint project to construct the Pelican Walk parking garage. The City
Manager expressed concern the proposed streetscape plan would cause a loss of parking
spaces on Mandalay Avenue.
Mr. Shuford said none of the short term issues he mentioned will interfere with major
redevelopment plans. He said a firm redevelopment area has not been established, just
sketched. '
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Commissioner Thomas indicated he had no interest in pursuing short term projects on
Baymont or Papaya Streets. Commissioner Berfield agreed any streetscape project on
Mandalay Avenue should be part of a joint agreement to construct the parking garage at
Pelican Walk.
Sue Boshen said the streetscape plan for Mandalay Avenue would kill a few businesses
and questioned if the drainage issue had been addressed. The Mayor stated it would be. Ms.
Boshen noted the plan calls for a great deal of landscaping and she has worked with staff
regarding her concern about upkeep requirements. She said removal of parking spaces will
be detrimental and pointed out how hard downtown merchants worked to get street parking
reestablished on Cleveland Street. She agreed the area needs wider sidewalks but said taking
away parking will be harmful. Commissioner Thomas agreed Ms. Boshen made a valid point.
Mayor Garvey noted consensus was to go forward and approve the streetscaping of
Mandalay Avenue only in conjunction with the construction of the parking garage.
John Doran referred to the Clearwater Seach Association's plan, the result of a special
Beach Association committee that met last year with Scott Shuford and property owners on
East Shore Drive. The Association approved the concept of a redevelopment plan that
included what was already there. He indicated the plan envisions more sidewalks and green
space and fewer motels.
Anne Garris said there are not enough service businesses on Clearwater beach and
suggested more relocate there. She recommended redevelopment plans include features that
already exist. She suggested installing a boardwalk to extend from the new fishing pier
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beneath the bridge to connect the marina with East Shore Drive. She recommended the City
purchase the King Cole Motel, when it becomes available, for use as a passive park. She
opposed turning Saymont and Papaya Streets into pedestrian malls and suggested making the
sidewalks more attractive instead. She said removing parking spaces would be detrimental
to businesses. Ms. Garris indicated a need exists for better recreation opportunities for motel
guests. She recommended establishing zoning that would permit indoor or outside recreation.
She noted establishment of a planned development, which is not strictly bound by zoning
rules, could make it possible for property owners to market their properties together. She
agreed Clearwater should establish a harborfront park at the end of Papaya Street with an
observation dock from which to view the dolphins and manatees. She noted large scale
development has shown no interest in available Gulf front property and questioned how the
City would successfully market less attractive harborfront property. She suggested moving
more slowly and recommended decisions regarding beach redevelopment be made by property
owners and the beach association.
The Mayor questioned if there is any parking on the west side of East Shore Drive. Ms.
Garris indicated little exists. Commissioner Thomas questioned her preference for two-way
traffic or one-way pairs on East Shore Drive. Ms. Garris said there is no good way.
Ms. Garris recommended the City purchase three lots on East Shore Drive. The Mayor
que~tioned the total number of property owners who have indicated they are interested in
selling. Mr. Shuford said the entire area, except Heilman's, has an appraised value of $16-
million. He distributed a map of the subject area.
Commissioner Thomas noted the property on East Shore Drive is valued at $2.5-million.
Mayor Garvey recommended looking at the whole redevelopment area. Commissioner Berfield
noted Ms. Garris had recommended the City purchase the first property on the block and at
the end of Papaya Street to create open space. Mayor Garvey expressed concern that the
property owner next door would want to sell to Clearwater as soon as the City purchased any
property. Commissioner Berfield noted additional purchases would be a City option. She
questioned where cross over to parking would be designated. Ms. Boshen did not remember
anything that would stand in the way of sidewalks. Commissioner Thomas questioned the
size of the sidewalks Ms. Garris had proposed. Ms. Garris indicated they are four-feet wide.
Commissioner Thomas questioned if Ms. Garris objected to Mr. Shuford's plan for one-
way pairs on East Shore Drive and Poinsettia Street. Ms. Garris indicated her group's plan
included two-way streets.
Commissioner Thomas questioned if illustrative slides had been developed for the East
Shore Drive or Poinsettia Street proposals. Mr. Shuford indicated the slides only display
possible streetscapes.
Greg Shutzendorf said the beautification recommendations look good but expressed
concern regarding the proposal to reduce parking. He said his hardware store needs parking
for customers and space for trucks. He suggested traffic will form a loop if one-way pairs are
established.
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John Piemididas said something needs to be done in the Poinsettia Street area but
suggested the only problem there is the parking. He preferred something be done to create
a more attractive area. Mr. Piemididas said if parking is removed from Poinsettia Street, his
business will still require space for parking. Mr. Shuford said staff has considered establishing
district parking in that area if the goal is to promote those area businesses.
Mayor Garvey noted hardware store customers want to get in and get out quickly. Mr.
Shuford said service type businesses can request that specific meters limit parking time and
signs establish a particular use. He stated the hardware store has many problems related to
the parking patterns of patrons of nearby restaurants. The Mayor questioned if hardware store
employees park in those spaces. Commissioner Thomas noted parking passes could destroy
businesses such as the hardware store. He agreed a sign would be needed to designate
parking. The Mayor agreed the Commission had not discussed this side issue.
Gil Shutzendorf said his hardware store has, adequate parking for his employees and
tenants. The Mayor expressed concern that employees of other businesses park in spaces in
front of the hardware store. Mr. Shutzendorf agreed that was another problem. He said that
business location has had a long history of parking problems. He expressed concern that
minimum parking requirements for restaurants are not enforced.
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Commissioner Thomas questioned if Mr. Shutzendorf could offer any solutions. Mr.
Shutzendorf recommended limiting parking in the zone in front of the hardware store to 30
minutes and that signs restrict some spaces for beauty salon patrons. He indicated his
business is only attractive to customers who can access his front door. He noted two spaces
on the north side of the building are designated as a 30 minute loading zone. Commissioner
Thomas questioned if a 15 minute limit would be adequate. Mr. Shutzendorf said that Jimit
would be adequate for most customers.
Commissioner Thomas questioned if the signs limiting parking to 60 minutes could be
changed to a 30 minute limit. Mayor Garvey agreed that could be done if the Commission
deems such action appropriate. Commissioner Thomas questioned if the spaces can be limited
to business parking only. The City Attorney said that cannot be done. Mr. Baier indicated
parking in the public right-of-way cannot be limited to one business but times can be limited.
Commissioner Johnson questioned if Mr. Shutzendorf was satisfied with limiting parking in
front of his hardware store to 30 minutes. Mr. Shutzendorf indicated he was.
Sue Boshen noted Poinsettia Street is not a beach related area and is attempting to
attract service businesses that do not depend on tourists. She said If traffic is limited to one-
way and parking is removed, service businesses will be unable to operate there. She
questioned if business owners could lease parking spaces on City property and Install a towing
sign. The City Attorney indicated they can. Ms. Boshen expressed an interest in seeing the
area grow.
Commissioner Berfield questioned if Mr. Shutzendorf would lease parking spaces for
his business and allow him to install a sign. Mr. Shutzendorf requested time to think about
the proposal. Commissioner Thomas questioned if one- way pairs would impact the hardware
store. Mr. Shuford said parking could be located directly in front of the hardware store even
if one-way pairs are established.
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Mayor Garvey questioned if the Commission was interested in establishing one-way
streets. Commissioner Berfield said she was not interested in one-way streets. Commissioner
Thomas expressed an interest in increased landscaping. The Mayor indicated sha would not
support landscaping that depends on one-way pairs. Commissioner Thomas felt one-way pairs
may be necessary. Mr. Shuford agreed the number of spaces would be reduced unless one~
way pairs are established. Commissioner Johnson said people do not want one-way streets.
The Mayor agreed that was a particularly difficult area. Commissioner Thomas said it was
important to choose the most attractive and efficient traffic system. He encouraged the
development of a plan that would beautify the streets and keep two-way traffic and current
levels of parking.
Mr. Shutzendorf said the streetscape plan will remove a great deal of parking and
indicated parallel parking is the least attractive to business owners. The Mayor noted Mr.
Shuford submitted these plans at the Commission's request.
Les Snovak said his situation is similar to the hardware store. Without parking, his
business would be dead. He indicated if customers cannot park close to the door of his Pac
iN Send, he will probably lose the business. He said people cannot carry heavy packages
across the street. He questioned the good of beautification if no businesses remain.
Tom Sehlhorst suggested building a monorail instead of spending money on these
plans.
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John Doran agreed with Dr. Rosenow that attractions would bring people to the beach.
He suggested families would want to visit something similar to Celebration Station and felt
there was enough room on the beach to build a modest facility. Mr. Doran said the code
needs to be changed to allow outdoor recreation on the beach. He recommended granting
height variances to hotels willing to include green space and other amenities. The Mayor
favored working with what is there
Bill Sykes indicated other beach issues need to be discussed. The Mayor said this is
just the beginning. She noted the Commission has already discussed a wide range of beach
issues at five previous meetings. Mr. Sykes said there are items that the Commission has not
even addressed: the police situation; a boardwalk along the Gulf; and where the City stands
regarding tourist tax dollars. Commissioner Thomas indicated the Commission will discuss
those items at another meeting. Commissioner Barfield requested others to jot down
additional ideas and give them to the City Clerk or City Manager. Mr. Sykes expressed
concern that Clearwater is ignored on 1-75 signage. The Mayor indicated the City already is
addressing that concern. Mr. Baier reported the Florida Department of Transportation (FOOT)
has approverf four signs on US 19 and one on SR 60. Mr. Sykes said a sign should be erected
on 1-75 near its split with the Turnpike. He understood research is being done regarding signs
on the interstate. He expressed concern that Clearwater, as a destination, has not been
included. Commissioner Thomas said Mr. Baier is trying to address that. Mayor Garvey hoped
Mr. Sykes talked to the Police Department regarding police issues.
Dr. Rosenow said he recently returned from a trip through Georgia and noted the new
video system is now working at Florida's Welcome Centers. He questioned if the City has
decided to participate in the video systems. He said the video produced by C-View 35 and
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presented at tonight's meeting is excellent. Ms. Rice indicated participation in the new video
system at Florida Welcome Centers is in the City's marketing plan. She said staff has talked
to the video system organizer and is gathering information. Commissioner Thomas indicated
staff has been assigned to come back with a proposal.
Commissioner Thomas said, based on what he heard tonight, two-way streets would
remain on the beach and business owners would be permitted to lease street parking. He
questioned if the streets could be beautified. Mr. Shuford said It is difficult to accommodate
many different competing interests in a 60-foot right-of-way. The Mayor suggested installing
sidewalks in some areas will be tremendous improvement.
Commissioner Thomas requested future computer models reflect current conditions and
include as much beautification as possible and the estimated cost. He recommended
budgeting for the acquisition of the King Cole motel to establish a park at the entrance to the
beach. He liked the suggestions for a boardwalk and Mr. Doran's recommendation regarding
the zoning issue although, he said, the Commission would need to control the zoning issue.
Mayor Garvey suggested, at this point, to improve what is there.
Commissioner Johnson said he was impressed with what he saw and heard tonight.
He supported protecting businesses and the taxpayers.
Commissioner Berfield referred to comments regarding rundown City property. Mr.
Shuford indicated the adjacent property owner is required to maintain the City's right-of-way.
Commissioner Berfield suggested the Community Response Team address this matter. The
City Manager indicated an education effort would be initiated.
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J "'_"! Mayor Garvey questioned if staff was comfortable with the Commission's direction.
The City Manager indicated there is much to do.
Commissioner Thomas recommended installing a concrete walk with benches and gas
lanterns between Pier 60 the Adams Mark Hotel. He noted some people like to walk along the
beach but cannot walk in sand. He recommended including a 20-foot concrete ribbon in
conjunction with the new Pier 60 park. Mr. Shuford recommended the walk be located along
Gulfview Boulevard and not away from businesses. Commissioner Thomas said one thing
people discussed was the ability to walk along the beach and rest on conveniently placed
benches. Mr. Baier said he would review the suggestion and noted the sidewalk would have
to be landward of the Coastal Construction Control Line. He pointed out the sidewalk could
create a tripping hazard. Commissioner Thomas agreed the walk would have to be swept
daily. He noted California keeps similar walks clean.
Mayor Garvey did not think Commissioner Thomas' recommendation should be a
priority. Commissioner Johnson agreed. Commissioner Berfield said she would like the
suggestion reviewed. No action was directed.
The meeting arlj~urn~d at 10:51 p.m.
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ATTEST: ('1. ~~ C. 1-i~~L.
mSP06a.~~----CltY Clerk
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