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04/17/1997 (2) I. ... ~._ _ .~"_... _.....~.. " . " ' . 'I, I' , . ''',\'., : , .." ~ . ~ . " , , , , " , , . . ' .j,. ,.... ":.". , ' " . '. ".. I . '.' " .. . ~ , .." . , '" :,': '" ::. :.'.~ ':,' " '!.<":~f\" , , " ',', c',' " , . ~ \ .., . . , ' " :<!. ., '. . :'.>':::"~:':~":",<'~'r~~'~,'.,,,...:~~:::', ,'.. , .. ",..',., I" .' n. ... .r., '_1'" ...."..., .., ~." <.' .~.".' .,. ,.'. c .' . , .,.' . . COMMISSION <", , ,. ~, City Commission Minutes \.' . 'd ." .' j. A pr'l ) 11 I 10CJ 1 I ",,' ' Date " '" ." f . ,.,.j. , . ..: , . , , , ... It, . " , , ~c;} ~ '. .: ~ ' '. . i" . , . '. , , . " . ".Ic . " " . ..~._~~.-..... 11'... ...., _...,....,.'. ...... '~.--"""'..r"""'r"'.""., ., . . ..~ _'~_"'~''''''''_''''L.....n .~.......,""","_~,.~ ,. .OTC"" .. ,'...""_" ", ,..'.... .' ,"<,\"":,,,'.,;',2.,.:.,' ", .,' II , . ' . .' " " '" 'e' , ..... " "I ,,' fd ' . "', ' , ' ,.,.J" '.. . ' '. " , " , , ,I' . , ,', ,~ , '. . i' . ....... " " ___. ,.... l..-., 'oJ ~ ',", ' ..' '.' ~ ~ '., ',' ., ,'!}},:::"g.';:~),:;..;;> . I,', ' .' . ., . .' -- CITY COMMISSION MEETING CITY OF CLEARWATER April 17, 1997 Present: Rita Garvey J. B. Johnson Robert Clark Ed Hooper Karen Seel Elizabeth M. Deptula Kathy S. Rice Bob Keller Pamela K. Akin Scott Shuford Cynthia E. Goudeau Patricia O. Sullivan Mayor/Commissioner Vice-Mayor/Commissioner Commissioner Commissioner Commissioner City Manager Deputy City Manager Assistant City Manager- City Attorney Central Permitting Director City Clerk Boa(d Reporter The Mayor caiied the meeting to order at 6:01 p.m. at City Hall. The invocation was offered by Commissioner Johnson. The Mayor led the Pledge of Allegiance. To provide continuity for research. items are in agenda order although not necessarily discussed in that order. ITEM #3 - Service Awards ~". f, 'C"! One service award was presented to a City employee. ITEM #4 ~ Introductions and Awards Proclamations: Arbor Day - April 26, 1 997 Professional Secretaries Week -' April 20 - 26, 1997 Professional Secretaries Day - April 23, 1997 National YWCA Day of Commitment to Eliminate Racism - April 30, 1997 ITEM #5 ~ Presentations A pilot program on new Scientologist uniforms was presented. ,ITEM #6 - Aooroval of Minutes Commissioner Seel moved to approve the minutes of the regular meeting of April 3, 1997, as recorded and submitted in written summation by the City Clerk to each . Commissioner. The motion was duly seconded and carried unanimously. ITEM #7 - Citizens to be heard re items not on the AQenda '0 mcc04b97.doc ~ .. ': ' . \ :~..- ."\ '. . I' . ',~ I' . 1 04/17/97 ~ '. ~. ~ " , " ~ Rov Cadwell recommended Commissioners handle the City's money with the same care they use with personal finances. Mrs. Uhlfers said constructing new City buildings wastes money. She said the tax base should be increased. Pat Wilson recommended the Land Development Code rewrite require soup kitchens to obtain conditional use approvals at public hearings. Marv Lou Marino said the new Scientologist uniforms are absurd. John Doran, of the Clearwater Beach Chamber of Commerce, said the Police had done a good job during the busy Spring tourist season. Lois Cormier welcomed the Commission back to Chambers. She complimented the new Police Headquarters and praised the staff. She expressed concerns regarding crime problems in South Greenwood, noting the importance of the community substation. She said the Police Q~dget should not be cut. Frank Ott suggested using the Annex site for a park. PUBLIC HEARINGS f;~ ITEM #8 - Public Hearino & First Readino Ord. #6141-97 - Vacating east/west alley between Lots 6-13, Blk 10, Milton Park Sub. (Word of Faith Church of God, Inc., V97-02) (EN) The applicant is requesting to vacate the 16-foot alley lying North of Lots 10-13 and South of Lots 6-9, Block 10, Milton Park Subdivision as recorded Plat Book 1, Page 69 of the Public Records of Pinellas County, Florida. The applicant proposes to use this portion of the alley, along with Lots 6 through 12, to construct a professional office development. Vacation of the alley and development of the professional office complex will enhance the City's tax base and support desired economic activities. The Alley is paved and open to vehicular traffic between Myrtle and Prospect Avenue. Both ends of the alley have been posted with signs advertising the portion to be vacated. The City's sanitary sewer line, located within the portion of the alley to be vacated, must be relocated and a new easement provided prior to being adopted. Florida Power, GTE, GTE Americast, and Time Warner did not object to the vacation. City Departments/Divisions concerned with easement vacation requests have reviewed the petition. Engineering Services has no objection provided the applicant pays all costs to relocate the sanitary sewer line, provides a 1 a-foot drainage and utility easement over the new line, and provides for any drainage requirements to maintain the remaining portion of the existing alley. The City Engineer recommends approval. Richard Uline, representative for the church, said the property has been on the market for 6 years. The vacation is needed to develop the site with a professional office building. o mcc04b97.doc 2 04/17/97 "Nays": None. f~ Mrs. Uhlfers opposed the vacation, stating she owns Lots 2 and 3 and uses the subject alley all the time. She expressed concern emergency vehicles will be delayed. Mr. Uline said 81 % of the neighborhood had signed his petition supporting the vacation. The City Attorney and Mrs. Uhlfers requested a copy of the petition. Commissioner Clark moved to approve the request to vacate the 1 6-foot alley in Milton Park Subdivision subject to the applicant relocating an existing sanitary sewer main, providing a 10-foot drainage and utilities easement over the relocated sewer main and that the appropriate officials be authorized to execute same. The motion was duly seconded and carried unanimously. The City Attorney presented Ordinance #6141-97 for first reading and read it by title only. Commissioner Clark moved to pass Ordinance #6141-97 on first reading. The motion was duly seconded and upon roll call, the vote was: IIAyes": Johnson, Clark, Hooper, Seel and Garvey. ITEM #9 - Public Hearina & First Readina Ord. #6139-97 - OPD Zoning for property located at 804 Pinellas St., Milton Park Sub., Blk 10, lots 10-12 (Word of Faith Church of God, Inc. and Francis & Kristin Ferraro, Z97-02) ICP) f~\ ,~~~ This joined rezoning application request is from the Word of Faith Church of God, Inc. and Francis J. and Kristin R. Ferraro. The church owns Lots 10 and 12 and the Ferraros own Lot 11. The applicants wish to rezone the three lots at the Northeast corner of Myrtle Avenue and Pinel1as Street. Thompson Executive Center Partnership has a contract to purchase the lots and intends to develop them for professional offices use. The lots are zoned Limited Office (Ol), and have a Land Use Plan Classification of Residential/Office General. It is proposed to rezone the properties Office Planned Development (OPD). The Future Land Use Plan Classification of Residential/Office General will not be changed. On March 4,1997, the Planning & Zoning Board unanimously endorsed a request to rezone the church's Lots 6,7.8, and 9 at 1233 S. Myrtle Avenue from Public/Semi-Public (P/SP) to Office Planned Development (OPD), and a Future Land Use Plan amendment from Institutional to Residential/Office General. On March 20, 1997, the City Commission unanimously approved the rezoning and land use plan amendments request. It was noted the owner of Lot 11 had submitted rezoning applications to bring Lots 10, 11, & 12 under the same OPD zoning district. Staff did not include the present request with the former items because the previous items involved a land use plan amendment which is a lengthy process. The combined lots equal 0.48 acres, under the 4-acres required to establish a new Planned Development district. The proposed amendments, however, would expand the church properties North to include Lots 6, 7, 8, and 9 which currently are on process to be rezoned o mcc04b97.doc 3 04/17/97 " , J ~ OPD with a land use plan amendment to Residential/Office General. The combined lots for the entire process total 1.13 acres. The rezoning request is consistent with surrounding land use patterns and in character with the neighborhood. Rezoning will foster a consolidated professional office corridor for a full spectrum of limited uses within the area. OPD zoning will provide the applicant and prospective developer more flexibility to accommodate buildings with exceptional setback requirements and allow a development project that will contribute to the City's redevelopment. The purchase agreement for the subject properties is contingent upon approval of the Zoning Atlas Amendment to ensure the lots are usable for their intended use, On April 1, 1997, the Planning & Zoning Board unanimously endorsed the request. Commissioner Hooper moved to approve the Petition for Zoning Atlas Amendment from Limited Office (Ol) ~o Office Planned Development (OPD) for Milton Park Subdivision, Block 10, lots 10, 11, & 12 and that the appropriate officials be authorized to execute same. The motion was duly seconded and carried unanimously. The City Attorney presented Ordinance #6139-97 for first reading and read it by title only. Commissioner Hooper moved to pass Ordinance #6139-97 on first reading. The motion was duly seconded and upon roll call, the vote was: "Ayesll: Johnson, Clark, Hooper, Seel and Garvey. f~~ "Nays": None. ITEM #10- (Cont'd from 04/03/97) Variance(s) to Sian Requlations for property located at 923 McMullen-Booth Rd., Sec. 9-29-16, M&B 31.01 together with Del Oro Gardens, lots 33-36, 44-46, 51 and part of 52 IKapok Pavilion, Inc., SV96-26) (CPI On April 3, 1997, this variance application was continued because the applicant was not present due to lack of notice of hearing. The property, on the East side of McMullen-Booth Road, is North of San Bernadino Street and is zoned General Commercial. The applicant requests variances: 1) a 3D-square foot area variance from the permitted 64-square feet to allow a 94-square foot freestanding sign; 2) a 3-foot height variance to allow a 23-foot high freestanding sign; and 3) a 96-square foot area variance from the permitted 64-square feet to allow 160 square feet of attached signs, The neon window signs are not considered attached signage as these signs will be removed and replaced on 3D-day intervals to meet the temporary sign provisions of the code. The applicant is permitted one 54-square foot primary sign and one 32-square foot auxiliary sign. Considering the road, building, and site conditions, staff feels it is reasonable to Iltrade.off" the auxiliary sign for a larger-than-permitted primary sign. McMullen-Booth Road is a fast-moving. 6-lane divided road with turn lanes. The property has a large building and right- of-way. The proposed freestanding sign will be in scale with this development. The height variance is requested to allow the sign to be seen above columns South of the sign. The attached sign variance is requested to allow a 96-square foot sign on the building1s South wall o mcc04b97.doc 4 04/17/97 . ,.'.,' 1'\ '{'~."'. .'..,. . ..._..~_~,:",_,,_..__..L' ,......... .','. .'.'" " 'I,. . " . .~. . " i~ to identify the entrance and discourage customers from entering the residential neighborhood by mistake. Staff feels a smaller sign can serve this purpose and recommends limiting the sign to 64-square feet. Pamela Karis, representative for the applicant, verified photographs of the property presented her by Central Permitting Director Scott. Shuford. She said the building has more than 630-feet of frontage along McMullen-Booth Road and the freestanding sign will reflect the building's architecture. She agreed the sign proposed for the building's South wall should be 64-square feet. She said the palm tree is not an issue as the height variance relates to the columns. In response to a concern, Mr. Shuford said some businesses, such as convenience stores, continuously change out temporary window signs. Ms. Karis said neon signs displayed in the windows are for sale and are moved regularly. If the signs do not sell, the store will stop handling that merchandise. In response to a question, Ms. Karis stated the sign over the canopy is permitted. Commissioner Johnson moved to deny an 96-square foot area variance from the permitted 64-square feet to allow 160-square feet of attached signs, on property identified as Sec. 9-29-16, M&B 31.01, together with DelOra Gardens, Lots 33,34,35,36,44,45,46,51, and part of 52, for failure to meet Sec. 45.24, Standards for Approval, items (1 )-(4). The motion was duly seconded and carried unanimously. (.:> Commissioner Hooper moved to approve the following variances: 1) a 30-square foot area variance from the permitted 64-square feet to allow a 94-square foot freestanding sign; 2} a 3-foot height variance to allow a 23-foot freestanding sign; and 3) a 54-square foot area variance from the permitted 64 square feet to allow 1 28-square feet of attached signs, on property identified as Sec. 9-29-16, M&B 31.01, together with DelOra Gardens, Lots 33t 34, 35, 36t 44. 45, 46, 51, and part of 52 for meeting Sec. 45.24, Standards for Approval, items (1 )-(4), subject to the following condition: No auxiliary sign shall be permitted on this property and that the appropriate officials be authorized to execute same. The motion was duly seconded and carried unanimously. Public Hearing - Second ReadinQ Ordinances ITEM #11 - Ord. #6112-97 - Annexation for property located at 2121 Calumet St., Clearwater Industrial Park, part of Lot 17 together with abutting r-o-w of Calumet St. (Buettner & Kinkead, A96-28) The City Attorney presented Ordinance #6112-97 for second reading and read it by title only. Commissioner Johnson moved to pass and adopt Ordinance #6112-97 on second and final reading. The motion was duly seconded and upon roll call, the vote was: "Ayes": Johnson, Clark, Hooper, Seel and Garvey. "Nays": None. o mcc04b97.doc 5 04/17/97 I . . ':,," ",."" ",,' . " ,', ',.' I >, :', '. : :', ,< ,', : .':' ':, ""'::"':'.1"(:;'. .: .:"< ::,:,~~ ,',t,:: ,J ~ ,,' .",:-" ".' \ " ",'. ~~',' :,' , : ",' :">: ,'~ ,.':;.'.. ", < ",:;--..,< "" :' ':':,: "'<.:" '::~:" '.'. _.'" ,n",'",',' ," ,'.,' "~n'; '~""'EI"" ", ,., ,'.',.,, , "':,' " , ",' .... '.:.:, ;., " :" \:' ..' ::', I:'. .' ~:,': ;'~:, :,1;'''''---' :,:'''.,:.- ,:.::1 '" ;' , ';', ".' ~\, \, . :,:" '''.' '.' >'....: ',' :', ,; ',< ...,'.'.,' ;"',:'; r~ (;:) (; ~ ~,c ~<,~ >' " . c. ~ . . ITEM #12 - Ord. #6113-97 - IL Zoning for property located at 2121 Calumet St., Clearwater Industrial Park, part of Lot 17 together with abutting r-o-w of Calumet St. (Buettner &. Kinkead, A96-28) The City Attorney presented Ordinance #6113-97 for second reading and read it by title only. Commissioner Seel moved to pass and adopt Ordinance #6113-97 on second and final reading. The motion was duly seconded and upon roll call, the vote was: HAyes": Johnson, Clark, Hooper. Seel and Garvey. "Nays": None. ITEM #13 - Ord. #6140-97 - Vacating 42' railroad easement, 43.45' railroad easement and 5' drainage &' utility easements bordering 42' railroad easement lying in Clearwater Industrial Park and Clearwater Industrial Park Replat between Hercules Ave. & Belcher Rd. (Simpson & McCracken, V97-01) The City Attorney presented Ordinance #6140-97 for second reading and read it by title only. Commissioner Hooper moved to pass and adopt Ordinance #6140-97 on second and final reading. The motion was duly seconded and upon roll call, the vote was: "Ayes": Johnson, Clark. Hooper. Seel and Garvey. "Nays": None. CITY MANAGER REPORTS CONSENT AGENDA (Items # 14-22) - Approved as submitted ITEM #14 - Approval of Purchases per 04/03/97 memorandum: Replace two Kubota M5400DT Industrial Tractors, utilize on Clearwater beach by Parks & Recreation, Bridges Equipment Company, Inc., $55,798, funding to be provided under City's master lease-purchase agreement (GS) Two 1997 Ford Ranger compact pickup trucks, utilize throughout City by Clearwater Gas System, Don Reid Ford, $25,300, funding for 1 truck to be provided under City's master lease-purchase agreement, 2nd truck by cash (GS) , ITEM #15 - Purchase of gas meters & reaulators: The Avanti Company, estimated $4,000; Equipment Controls Company, estimated $40,409.66; M. T. Deason Company, Inc., estimated $146,978; National Meter Parts Inc., estimated $46,428.50, during 04/18/97 - 04/17/98, total estimated $237,825.16 (GAS) ITEM #16 - AQreement with School Board of Pinellas Countv for City to utilize Pinellas County School buses, 06/01/97 -05/31/98, estimated $10,500 (PR) mcc04b97.doc 6 04/17/97 y..~l'i~L;"":~:~'~f. ~." I'~.'.!i. "',' \, :.'("J/ll::tttt~ ~1); , . . . , . . . L " '. . <~ '.' , . . , I'., ~ . ~ . r . . .~. ~: I ' . , , , .'. . j ~ ',' ITEM #17 - Reservoir #3 Mec ReDlacoment Contract to C.E.M. Enterorises. Inc.. $215.000 (PS) ITEM #18 ~ 1997 Sidewalk Contract to Purvis Curb's Corp.. Laroo, FL. for $447.883 (EN) ITEM # 19 - Aoreement for Bindino Cost Estimate with Florida Power to provide a binding cost estimate for Island Estates Overhead to Underground Utmtles Conversion Project. $9,000 to be set by mid-year budget amendment (eM) ITEM #20 - Reappoint Commissioner Johnson as Vice-Mavor (eLK) ITEM #21 ~ ADDointment of Commission members to ReQional & Miscellaneous Boards (ClK) ~ Garvev: Florida League of Cities Board of Directors, Emergency Medical Services Advisory Council, Mayor's Council of Pinellas County, Chi Chi Rodriguez Youth Foundation, Tampa Bay Partnership Policy Board, St. Petersburg/Clearwater Economic Development Council, & Pension Advisory Committee - Johnson: Tampa Bay Regional Planning Council, Pinellas Sports Authority, & Pension, Advisory Committee - Clark: Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority, Metropolitan Planning Organization, & Pension Advisory Committee - Hooper: Jolley Trolley Transportation of Clearwater, Inc., Board of Directors, Homeless Task Force. & Long Center Board of Directors - Seel: Performing Arts Center & Theater Board of Directors, & Pinellas Planning Council. All to rotate serving on Suncoast League of Municipalities Board of Directors ~:> ' . .~.." ITEM #22 - DrainaQe & Utilitv Easements for Stevenson's Creek Proiect (CA) a) Patricia H. Comtois (100 Hillcrest Ave.) b) Earl F. Schreiner (1017 Chester Dr.) c) Joseph A. and Alicia Devlin (1353 Lotus Path) d) Janice A. Furst (1349 Lotus Path) e) Sally A. Craig f/k/a Sally A. Nasta (1101 Evergreen Ave.) f} Terence l. & Cheryl A. Henry (1324 Jeffords St.) g) Donzel L. Morrison (1334 Jeffords St.) Commissioner Johnson moved to approve the Consent Agenda as submitted and that the appropriate officials be authorized to execute same. The motion was duly seconded and carried unanimously. OTHER lTEMS ON ClTY MANAGER REPORT ITEM #23 - Res. #97~29 - to strengthen economic development activities of the consolidated plan (ED} The City Attorney presented Resolution #97-29 and read it by title only. Commissioner Johnson moved to pass and adopt Resolution #97 ~29 and authorize the appropriate officials to execute same. The motion was duly seconded and upon roll call, the vote was: "Ayes": Johnson, Clark, Hooper, Seel and Garvey. v mcc04b97.doc 7 04/17/97 ~ "Nays": None. ., . ITEM #24 - Res. #97-' 0 - authorizing execution of agreement with FDOT to update Clearwater Airpark Master Plan (EN) FDOT (Florida Department of Transportation) has agreed to provide 50% reimbursable funding for the Clearwater Airpark Master Plan update project, estimated to cost $100,000. The City must pay project costs up front before reimbursement from FDOT. To provide funding on a timely basis, FOOT programmed $50,000 in Florida's FY (fiscal year) 1996/97 budget which ends June 30, 1997. Execution of this JPA (Joint Participation Agreement) encumbers FY 1996/97 State funds and initiates the project. State funding will not be available for this project if this JPA is not executed before June 30, 1997. In 1988, Greiner, Inc. prepared the existing Airpark Master Plan and the City Commission adopted it in 1989. FDOT's aviation group has recommended updating airport master plans on 5 year intervals. Updating the master plan is important as recently solicited FBO (Fixed Base Operator) proposals were based on the City's projected 5-year Airpark development plan. The Plan must be approved and include proposed improvements for the City to remain eligible for FDOT or Federal Aviation Administration funding. This project is included in the City's FY 1997/98 CIP budget. ,.~ ..+~rtI Approval of this JPA establishes the mechanism for 50% State reimbursement of project costs and does not constitute Commission approval of the project. A work order from the City's consulting engineering firm, Post, Buckley, Schuh & Jernigan, Inc., will be brought forward for Commission approval. Commissioner Clark moved to authorize the execution of a Joint Participation Agreement between the City and FDOT to update the Clearwater Airpark Master Plan and that the appropriate officials be authorized to execute same. The motion was duly seconded and carried unanimously. The City Attorney presented Resolution #97-10 and read it by title only. Commissioner Clark moved to pass and adopt Resolution #97-10 and authorize the appropriate officials to execute same. The motion was duly seconded and upon roll call, the vote was: "Ayes": Johnson, Clark, Hooper, Seel and Garvey. "Naystl: None. ITEM #25 - Island Estates Reclaimed Water System Contract No. 1 - Transmission and Distribution System to Kimmins Contracting Corp., Tampa, FL, for $3,658,295 (EN) The Island Estates Reclaimed Water System is planned in two phases. This contract award is part of Phase I and will install pipes from the Marshall Street AWT (Advanced Water Treatment) Plant to serve portions of Clearwater beach, Island Estates, Jack Russell Stadium, Memorial Causeway, Pier 60 Park, and Coachman Park with reclaimed water for irrigation. o mcc04b97.doc 8 04/17/97 ,~ (.~ it1'f,~ ! ,) .! ',' '\'~.H..'. :'J~~ , ' , ~ ' ., < ,c .' ., The project also includes potable water main replacement in cul-de-sac areas of Island Estates. On May 6, 1997, bids are due for Phase II, construction of a storage and pumping facility at the Marshall Street AWT. Bids were received for 2 construction methods. The base bid option requires directional drilling techniques be used for distribution pipe sizes (4~inches to 8-inches) to minimize property disruption. Utility industries are adopting methods that limit the amount of required excavation. The lowest bid for this option is $3,658,295. Option 2 combines boring under streets and driveways with traditional excavation methods in open space areas. This option will require more repairs to residents' yards, landscaping, and sprinkler systems, The lowest bid for this option is $3,467,435. Kimmins Contracting Corp. submitted the lowest bidder for both options. Staff recommends awarding the base bid option to minimize disruption. The base bid is $190,860 higher than the alternative bid. The 12" to 20" diameter pipe in the contract is for the reclaim transmission system from Clearwater Country Club ta Rockaway Park on Clearwater beach. With shallow installation, transmission pipe diameters are too large far directional drilling installation and must be installed via traditional excavation methods. Total construction contract costs for both construction phases are estimated at $6,995,500. Engineering construction management services for the construction phase of the Island Estates project were included in a previous work order to McKim and Creed. Engineering construction phase services for the extension to Clearwater beach and additional costs for quality control testing materials will be included in a future work order. McKim and Creed's work is estimated to cost $80,000. Award of this contract is subject to approval of the Cooperative Funding Agreement with SWFWMD (Southwest Florida Water Management District). This agreement is detailed on a separate agenda item approved by the Commission on April 3, 1997. A May 1997 start depends on the manufacture's ability to deliver pipe materials. Completion is scheduled within 540 days. Island Estates work should be completed within 330 days. The Contractor anticipates using multiple construction crews to meet the schedule and plans to construct the distribution and transmission pipe systems simultaneously. Commissioner Johnson moved to award the Island Estates Reclaimed Water System Contract No. 1 ~ Transmission and Distribution System (97-10) to Kimmins Contracting Corporation of Tampa, for $3,658,295 which is the lowest responsible bid received in accordance with the plans and specifications, and that the appropriate officials be authorized to execute same. The motion was duly seconded and ca'rried unanimously. ITEM #26 - Approval of P4S and P4A as the preferred alianments for Memorial Causeway Brldge with direction to finalize Project Development and Environment Study thereby carrying these 2 alignments forward through public hearings (EN) mcc04b97.doc 9 04/17/97 , ,'",', ',,: .. ".~ .:y' ';1/: ,..:',,;' ". '~, , : "l. ", ";':., .;' ":>",.', ) :':<\ '~'.,':' ,"<"'.. . ,'\, ,:<" :,' ':: " " " .";, : ;".","~":'~~': " ' ' " , \' ..-'., , .... " " .,.. " '," ..,.',,', " "'" ':,'/, ,'.",' ,,',,:.' "..',:..." , ,,"','~: ';'".,::,',",,',:', ":. ,',"':" " .,.' ~.. . '." , .' ..' ~ The delay of this project until after the vote to renew the Penny for Pinellas and pending FOOT clarifying legislation regarding joint projects has raised concerns related to uncommitted FOOT work program funds. . Establishing a Memorial Causeway Bridge work program project requires coordination with FDOT, Pinellas County, and the MPO (Metropolitan Planning Organization). These steps are predicated upon selection of an alignment and execution of a JPA with FOOT. The City Manager soon will bring forward an engineering related item containing the JPA. The project, originally conceived as a bridge replacement study, has evolved and now encompasses more than transportation issues. Staff's recommendation reflects an emphasis on the bluff, identified in the 1995 referendum as one of Clearwater's principal assets. The project, will be a cornerstone for redevelopment and affect the City's future quality of life. The 34-year-old bridge is functionally obsolete. Its design and openings/malfunctions restrict the safe conveyance of motorists from the mainland to the beaches, the City's prime tourist attraction. The bridge opens approximately 14 times per weekday and 25 times per weekend, causing 1 to 2 mile backups through downtown during peak season. Annual motorists' costs related to backups are estimated at $1-million. Public safety is ,compromised: 1) lack of emergency lanes/substandard lane widths; 2) lack of medians/barrier walls to separate opposing traffic; 3) lack of sidewalk barriers to separate vehicles/pedestrians; 4} metal leaf spans offer low skid resistance; and 5) bridge inhibits conveyance of emergency evacuation traffic. c, ~.~ Since embarking on a design process In Fall 1 994, staff has held approximately 26 public forums to' elicit community comment including mainland/barrier island civic associations, Commission-appointed advisory boards, the DDB (Downtown Development Board ), Chamber groups, and L1G (Local Interest Group) meetings. The process evaluated 3 primary bridge routes, 14 bridge alignments off Pierce Boulevard, Cleveland Street, and Drew Street, structural options, and lane configuration concepts. An evaluation matrix resulted (listed in order of highest importancel: 1) effect on downtown mobility; 2) effect on goal for downtown and economic development; 3) bridge construction costs; 4) pedestrian and bridge safety; 5) encourage new uses of waterfront/ bluff; 6) effect on environment; 71 effect on causeway; 8) effect on vistas from important locations; 9) effect on navigation; and 10) enhancements to Pierce 100. Staff recommends eliminating: 1) C4 WS - most expensive, high environmental impacts, could obligate long-term channel dredging costs, inconsistent with Downtown Redevelopment Plan goals; 2) P4 NE- least expensive, adversely affects view from bluff, consumes valuable land below bluff, lowers property values along bluff, noise/visual effects on park, limits options for downtown redevelopment in bluff area; and 3) P4A North - inhibits further recreational/open space uses of bluff, drastically impacts view from bluff, bifurcates waterfront, most detrimental alignment, most northerly, poses greatest noise/visual impacts. Staff recommends further evaluation of P4A: 1) approximately $5-million less than P4S; 2) minimizes overall environmental impacts as closely follows existing bridge alignmentl approaches; 3) noise levels barely perceptible; 4) eliminates noise from metal bridge grate o mcc04b97.doc 10 04/17/97 Subtotal $2.75M $ 6.00M $2.00 M Open Included $3.00M 43.75M . , ' " :. ' :. ,'+'... /J reverberations; 5) requires relocation of radio station; 6) affects view from bluff; 7) uses valuable waterfront property for bridge footings; and 8) requires extensive temporary pavement to maintain Pierce Boulevard traffic during construction. Staff feels the best alternative for the downtown and community's future is P4S: 1) improved bluff vistas; 2) future expansion potential of Coachman Park; 3) maximum flexibility for downtown redevelopment; 4) broader community support than P4A - endorsements from DOB and many advisory boards/committees; 5) maintaining traffic during construction easier as "footprint" is mostly outside Pierce Boulevard roadway; 6) impacts views from Pierce 100 and Prelude 80; 7) requires relocation or demolition of Arts Council building (structure being investigated for National Register inclusion); 8) possible need to relocate minor navigational channel running South of and parallel to causeway; 9) allows eRA (Community Redevelopment Agency) to achieve "Traditional Town Center," and People, Movement, Activity, Amenity, and Opportunity Goals; and 9) can mitigate minor impacts on Cleveland Street businesses by economic incentive package, increased parking, and highly visible SR 60 sign age. Staff recommends a vertical navigational clearance height of 74 feet, based on U.S. Coast Guard input. The final determination will be made when the bridge permit application is submitted to the U.S. Coast Guard during the project's design phase. A 74.foot height will add approximately $2-million to the cost of construction. t'~ 't~ Staff feels P4S is most consistent with engineering, economic development, and public safety issues. Funding could be made available by $1 a-million in Penny for Pinellas proceeds from both Pinellas County and the City with FOOT pledging approximately $1 2 - $13-million. Costs are estimates: Basic bridge structure (inclusive of connector road) Upgraded structure for concrete segmental beams Amenities - upscale lighting, benches, outlook perches, etc. Tangentially related projects - Ft. Harrison/Myrtle Avenues, bluff park, Normal construction contingency Design TOTAL To be determined By the end of April, staff will request direction regarding the alignment and vertical navigational clearance 50 the project sequence is not disrupted. Although the PD&E (Project Development & Environmental Study) phase is within budget, staff projects an additional $1 50,000 will be needed to cover the cost of numerous public meetings and analysis of five alternatives. A normal PD&E Study yields one or two alternatives. This extra involvement was not anticipated when costs were negotiated, The approved Penny for Pinellas future project listing contains $ 1 .5-million for a harbor bluff/bayfront expanded park and approximately $300,000 is set aside within this current o mcc04b97.doc 1 1 04/17/97 Dan Leiter said the State should repair the current structure. He threatened litigation by Pierce 100 residents if alignment P4S is chosen. Albert Rowback said the State should pay all costs for upgrades to this State Road. I~ capital project budget for improvements of the bluff. This $1 .S-million couhJ fund many of .' the expanded park amenities. Mary Louise Marino supported a new high span bridge and Northern alignment. Madeline Lawson supported a new bridge. John Hayes recommended the new bridge be built above the current span. Sarah Brown Caudell supported P4A but opposed P4S, stating the concerns of nearby residents need to be considered. Anne Garris, of the EAB (Environmental Advisory Board), Desmond Buzel1, Russell Burn, Bob Sudalnik, of the Beautification Committee, and Roger Woodruff, of the DDB, favored alignment P4S, stating staff has worked diligently on the plan, construction should be expedited, and many successful downtowns do not have major highways through them, Carl Barron, Pinellas County Director of General Services, noted the bridge's impact on the County's Clearwater campus. He appreciated the opportunity to work with staff regarding this project. Concerns were expressed regarding traffic flow on the beach when the beach route is unimpeded. Investment in public transportation was recommended. C~ Commissioner Clark moved to confirm the City's desire to construct a bridge with a 74-foot high span. The motion was duly seconded. It was noted the new bridge has been considered for 2 years. The City Commission had indicated a new bridge would be built if the Penny for Pinellas extensiori was approved. It was felt the P4A alignment accomplishes established goals. Limiting approval to one alignment was recommended. It was suggested infrastructure needs, such as a beach parking garage, should be included in the bridge package. Concern was expressed the package not include redesigning the City. Support for P4S was noted, indicating the design is future oriented and opens the whole bayfront for festive activities. It was noted beach traffic tie-ups will occur if no infrastructure changes are made on the beach. It was felt a beach parking garage should be constructed prior to completion of the bridge. Upon the vote being taken, the motion carried unanimously. It was noted the establishment of a beach CRA is in process. It was felt that issue will be resolved. Concern was expressed the bridge not dead end on the beach. Commissioner Johnson moved to approve P4A as the preferred alignment and direct staff to finalize the Project Development and Environment Study and carrying this alignment forward through public hearings. The motion was duly seconded o mcc04b97.doc 12 04/1 7197 Upon the vote being takent Commissioners Johnsont Clarkt Hoopert and Seel voted IIAye"; Mayor Garvey voted "Nay/t Motion carried. ~ Inclusion of the beach parking garage In the motion was recommended. It was felt beach infrastructure issues should be addressed separately. It was noted P4A cuts into parkland I while P4S opens parkland. Concern was expressed finding the extra funding needed to construct P4S will be difficult. It was noted P4A is more environmentally friendlYt allows expansion of Coachman Parkl and addresses all downtown issues. It was felt P4A is the only alignment that allows future flexibility. It was noted other alignments also permit flexibility. It was felt while P4S may be favored, it is the most expensive option. It was stated the bayfront is not the only issue to consider. By August 1, 1997 t staff will forward suggestions to the Commission that include specific dates and schedule Work Sessions to discuss traffic circulation at both ends of the bridget parking considerationst alternatives to the Memorial Civic Center, and beach CRA issues. When the bridge is being designed I the Commission will have specific plans to resolve other infrastructure issues. ITEM #27 - Municipal Code Enforcement Board ~ 1 appointment (eLK) Commissioner Seel moved to appoint David Allbritton. The motion was duly seconded and carried unanimously. () ITEM #28 - Other PendinCl Matters - None. CITY ATTORNEY REPORTS ITEM #29 - Resolutions a) Res. #97-24 - Demolition Lien - 1578 S. Washington Ave.t Carolina Terrace Annext Lot 35 (Janelli) The City Attorney presented Resolution #97-24and read it by title only. Commissioner Clark moved to pass and adopt Resolution #97-24and authorize the appropriate officials to execute same. The motion was duly seconded and upon roll cal11 the vote was: I1Ayes": Johnson, Clark, Hooper, Seel and GaNey. tlNays": None. b) Res. #97-25 - Abatement Lien - 1406 N. Greenwood Ave.t Cartert Honaker & Barets Lincoln Place Addition to Clearwatert Blk 1 t Lots 5 & 6 (Southern Emmanuel Tabernacle Church) The City Attorney presented Resolution #97-25 and read it by title only. Commissioner Hooper moved to pass and adopt Resolution #97-25 and authorize the appropriate officials to execute same. The motion was duly seconded and upon roll call, the vote was: \~ mcc04b97.doc 13 04/17/97 - ~ n. ..~ t>.c" d' ... ..... '~"""'."'~'H ,.~_. "~ ''''_'_Ii. . .. t-;,r,It1i.'...u.i~''''~''''i..~ ...c....~:.:.. :.;.. '. ... I,' '::\":.....;,">',:,,;:;':::;;: ~):: :', . .. ~ ; ~ . IIAyesll: Johnson, Clark, Hooper, Seel and Garvey. rJ . ,. "Ayesll: Johnson, Clark, Hooper, Seel and Garvey. IINays": None. cJ Res. #97-26 - Demolition Lien - 1016 N. Greenwood Ave.. Palm Park Addition to Clearwater, part of Lot 32, less r-o-w (Tinsley) The City Attorney presented Resolution #97-26 and read it by title only. Commissioner Johnson moved to pass and adopt Resolution #97-26 and authorize the appropriate officials to execute same. The motion was duly seconded and upon roll call, the vote was: "Nays": None. d) Res. #97-27 - Abatement Lien - 1310 N. Ft. Harrison Ave., First Addition to Enghurst Sub, part of Lots 39 & 40 (lrle) The City Attorney presented Resolution #97-27 and read it by title only. Commissioner Seel moved to pass and adopt Resolution #97-27 and authorize the appropriate officials to execute same.' The motion was duly seconded and upon roll call, the vote was: o "Ayesll: Johnson, Clark, Hooper, Seel and Garvey. "Nays": None. e) Res. #97-28 - Demolition Lien - 800 Pennsylvania Ave., Pine Crest Sub, Blk 5, Lot 6 (Lewis) The City Attorney presented Resolution #97-28 and read it by title only. Commissioner Hooper moved to pass and adopt Resolution #97-28 and authorize the appropriate officials to execute same. The motion was duly seconded and upon roll call, the vote was: "Ayes": Johnson, Clark, Hooper; Seel and Garvey. "Naystt: None. ITEM #30 - Other City Attornev Items A Special Meeting was scheduled to hear an appeal of the Planning & Zoning Board's denial of a conditional use permit to transfer a liquor license for Planet Bubba on May 14, 1997, at 7:00 p.m. ITEM #31 - City ManaQer Verbal ReDorts Bargaining Se~slon o mcc04b97.doc 14 04/17/97 . . .. . ., . . . ........ ,.-, , . . . """ .' . . . .' '., \' .. . .' , " l~, -. , ' . ,.' , " ': , " " ; . II ,-' .,', "'. ' , " . ',,' \"" ',' 1 ""'.':' " '-.' "," , ' )1 ' , /~, . .: ',', .' " , '., ' ..' '..... . ~ ". ,., I' f' '., '. ".' ~ , ,I, . . ~ . "~' ',' I .' , ~ \ .,.... ,j' . : I, ':' j' . Another budget meeting was scheduled for May 22, 1997, at 10:00 a.m. " I ~ '0: '.; ;. >, i:' .' :: ~ '.... . ~. t :'.~ '::'r ,+ ' ,'} A closed-door bargaining session was scheduled for immediately after the April 28, 1997, Work Session. Budget Meeting Airpark Open House The Airpark Authority invited the Commission to attend an Open House/Dedication ceremony for new hangars on May 17, 1997. Proposal re commercial property on Island Estates Consensus was to listen to a proposal regarding City-owned commercial property on Island Estates. It was noted commercial areas are poor locations for playgrounds. Staff was directed to look for an Island Estates playground site. Legislative issues (~ ~J CGS (Clearwater Gas System) Managing Director Chuck Warrington expressed concern a pending telecommunications bill may result in future taxes on other City utilities. He said the proposal would require payment of ad valorem taxes by Clearwater to other governmental entities. It was stated public and private entities should compete on a "level playing field." It was felt the City should provide services at lower cost to residents when possible. It was noted the telecommunications issue does not affect the City. No consensus was reached. Individual Commissioners will respond if they choose. ITEM #32 - Other Commission Action Commissioner Johnson expressed interest in a program in Syracuse where "slum" signs are erected when owners do not bring property up to code. Commissioner HooDer commended City staff for repairs to the Seminole Boat Dock and City Hall completed under budget. Commissioner HooDer said the DDS is identifying areas needing cleanup on the Pinellas Trail. Commissioner HODDer referred to complaints regarding difficulty in disconnecting from GTE Americast. Staff will respond. Commissioner Hoooer referred to a request to fund substitutes while teachers visit Nagano. The Mayor said this is not being considered for City funding. o mcc04b97.doc 15 04/17/97 /,", , . .() .' , ., ATIllST: r;~k Z.}L .~~CL . ~itY Clerk c;;>..' .. . , . . . ,,:ri~~,;": i:,:" >:: j',' i:jW:'';:fi~:~1!~::WVr::. :;:,:: ':\ :," :": " :" '"" , " : ~c . '", ',-, , Commissioner Clark 'expressed concern proposed legislation would increase tuition costs for non-degree seeking students. Staff to provide more information. Mavor Garvev reported informational materials and magazines are available in the City Manager's office for Commission perusal. Mavor Garvev said residents may contact (813) 562-5644 to report malfunctioning street lights. Mavor Garvev invited people to the downtown Farmers Market on Saturday mornings. ITEM #33 - Adiournment The meeting adjourned at 8:37 p.m. " "'0 '. mcc04b97.doc . 16 04/17/97 , , , :::'~~~< ;:}:",i,{;::,;' {:;;:;:ifI'!:: ',';\ ,~~