04/29/1996 (2)
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Present:
Rita Garvey
J. a.Johnson
Robert Clark
Ed Hooper
Karen Seel
Elizabeth M. Deptula
William C. Baker
Kathy S. Rice
Pamela K. Akin
Cynthia E. Goudeau
Patricia O. Sullivan
Mayor/Commissioner
Vice-Mayor /Commissioner
Commissioner
Commissioner
Commissioner
City Manager
Assistant City Manager
Deputy City Manager
City Attorney
City Clerk
Board Reporter
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CITY COMMISSION WORK SESSION
CITY OF CLEARWATER
April 29, 1996
The meeting was called to order at 9:00 a.m. at City Hall.
Service Award~ - None.
EN ENGINEERING
(;)
Authorize work order to Post. Bucklev. Shuh & Jerniaan CPBS&J) for shoo drawina review
for architectural services comoonents associated with Pier 60 Park; approve transfer of
$16,820 to the project code from the unappropriated retained earnings of the General
Fund
Engineering Services could do this project in-house with sufficient personnel and
time. The contractor supplies these shop drawings to conform with the projecfs design
concept and information in the contract documents. PBS&J designed this project and is
the logical choice to review. the shop drawings.
In answer to a question, the City Manager said, in response to the contract coming
in higher than expected, Engineering said this item could be taken out but did not indicate
it would have to be added back in later. She said the work cannot be handled in-house.
Engineering Director Rich Baier said this expenditure will cover fully the cost of the
drawings and will not exceed $16,820. He will check on the multiplier used to calculate
this cost. He said staff is not well versed in HV AC and would have to delay other projects
if they undertook this review.
Consensus was to not routinely include drawings with Agenda items.
In answer to a question, Mr. Baier said staff handles construction management. He
did not foresee additional costs.
The City Manager indicated Sunsets at Pier 60 had requested the City build them a
small $1 ,000 kiosk booth to be located by the promenade where the project manager can
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Concern was expressed an open pond would have to be secured due to the inherent
danger to children. In answer to a question, Mr. Baier said open ponds are expensive to
maintain due to ongoing vegetation infestation and the limited 10-year life span of pond
liners. Closed storage tanks have 45-50 year life-spans and minimal annual maintenance
costs. A reference was made to the pond at Clearwater Country Club constructed from
two ponds. Mr. Baier said the country club pumps water out of that pond. The City would
require a lined pond that is twice as large. The master plan calls for distributing 10-million
gallons a day of reclaimed water. Funding is requested to provide an interconnection
between the Marshall Street and Northeast AWTs (Advanced Wastewater Treatment
Plants). In addition to Island Estates, the neighborhoods of Old Clearwater Bay and Harbor
Oaks have expressed interest in reclaimed water. Residents on Clearwater beach will
initiate a new petition drive for reclaimed water this summer. Reclaimed water can be
used on the Memorial Causeway, Jack Russell Stadium, Coachman Park, and the Panthers
soccer field. Other suggested locations include Carpenter Field and SPJC (St. Petersburg
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sign in participants and distribute information. A card table is currently being used. . Mr.
Baler said the structure would be moveable.
Consensus was to delay consideration of the request until the park is finished. It
was suggested a corner may be found for this need once construction is completed.
Regarding vacation agenda items, consensus was for staff to continue providing
information such as department comments, filing forms, and area maps.
Reclaimed Water - Discussion re boundaries. oarameters & orODosed orocess and timelines
In his April 26, 1996, memorandum, Mr. Baier noted benefits for reclaimed water
include: 1) preservation of the ecosystem; 2) reduction of nitrogen released into water
courses; and 3) reduction of potable water dependency. He said an important issue
concerns the type of s'torage and location for a reclaimed water system that meets the
City's long term needs, as defined in the Comprehensive Growth Plan, and community
/neighborhood needs. Mr. Baier constructed a matrix comparing open storage ponds with
enclosed storage tanks in North Greenwood, downtown, and on Island Estates with
information addressing: 1) the overall system's functionality; 2) aesthetic concerns; 3)
construction issues related to groundwater contamination, the water table, etc.; 4)
annuslized operating and maintenance costs; 5) capital costs inclusive of land purchase(s);
and 6) adjacent land use compatibility.
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Mr. Baier indicated he visited wastewater treatment facilities in Tarpon Springs,
Pinellas County, and Largo. He recommended constructing an enclosed storage facility
adjacent to the Marshall Street facility. He noted the City Manager's recommendation for
a Task Force and suggested the group could provide valuable community input regarding
the proposed facility's appearance, North Greenwood community recreational needs, noise
concerns, Stevenson's Creek dredging/odor issues, etc. Attached to the memorandum
was a list of issues brought forward at the March 26, 1996, meeting at the Martin Luther
King Center attended by the Mayor and Commissioners, staff, and approximately 65
community residents.
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Mr. Baier referred to staff's analysis and pointed out an open pond on Island Estates
is not feasible due to the required amount of land and shallow water table. In answer to a
question, he will provide an estimate of all costs related to locating a storage tank
downtown including piping and lift station construction and maintenance. Additional land
would be required to construct an open pond downtown. He estimated building the
storage tank on Island Estates would add $2.8-million to the project's cost. It was noted
locating the storage tank downtown would remove the property from the tax roll and
prevent economic development, resulting in additional cost. Mr. Baier did not have
information regarding a storage tank's impact on City facilities as an economic study was
not done. The City Commission requested staff provide information regarding the total
cost for each option.
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Junior College), Mr. Baier said the distribution of 2.5-million gallons a day of reclaimed
water will make a significant difference on the aquifer. He anticipated limits to reclaimed
water use will not be instituted for the next decade although not everyone who requests
service will receive it. He said much depends on the cost to extend the service to
interested neighborhoods. He suggested Countryside does not need reclaimed water
service, except for the open space at Eagles Landing.
Mr. Baier reported the City's three AWT plants dump approximately 10.5-million
gallons per day of nitrogen-rich treated wastewater into Tampa Bay and Clearwater
Harbor. The Marshall Street AWT plant's daily capacity is 11-million gallons and the East
plant's daily capacity is 5-million gallons. All treated wastewater can be reclaimed. The
Northeast AWT plant also processes Safety Harbor's wastewater but the agreement does
not address the resulting effluent. In answer to a Question, Mr. Baier said by Clearwater
becoming more self-sufficient regarding water r the City can avoid building moratoriums as
long as permitted capacity is not violated. He predicted the largest commercial use of
reclaimed water would be in the Hercules Road area. As staff has not spoken to
businesses in this section, they have not established estimates nor determined rates for
commercial use. The Island Estates' rate includes a meter rate.
In answer to a question, Mr. Baier estimated the City dumps 1.5 tons of nitrogen
per day into area waters.
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Concern was expressed that large storage tanks have a substantial impact on area
property values. Mr. Baier said a storage tank on a flat grade is difficult to hide. No .
natural contouring surrounds the proposed downtown or Island Estates' sites. The
Marshall Street plant property slopes 12 to 15 feet and ground can be built part way up
the tank's sides. Mr. Baier referred to computer generated pictures of the site. The
majority of the storage tank will be hidden by a terraced berm. Community input would be
sought to determine color or artwork on the storage tank and buffering landscaping. He
recommended locating the storage tank by the Marshall Street plant. He said the land's
topography is important due to its ability to screen part of the tank.
In answer to a Question Mr. Baier said staff is considering enclosing effluent lines
and adding a scrubbing system to eliminate odor at the Marshall Street plant. Staff feels
the majority of odors in that vicinity are emitted from Stevenson1s Creek. He
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Consensus was to reach a decision regarding the location of the storage facility on
May 16, 1996.
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recommended odor control be pursued at all City AWT plants. He recommended new
technologies first .be applied to the Marshall Street plant. He said an interconnect with the
Northeast Plant is necessary because that plant cannot provide all the reclaimed water.
Consensus was to eliminate consideration of an open pond or storage tank on Island
Estates or an open pond at the Marshall Street plant. It was suggested the downtown
location be considered with reserve.
Mr. Baier referred to a list of North Greenwood residents with diverse community
experience who may wish to provide input on a citizen-based task team. The City
Manager recommended the City Commission provide the team with limits, identifying
I which issues are determined by the City Commission. In answer to a question, Mr. Baier
,said the City faces time line restrictions by SWFWMD (Southwest Florida Water
Management District) and must draw down on targeted funding within a year. SWFWMD
has rated the reclaimed water project number one. He expressed concern future projects
may be affected if the City does not follow through within established time limits. The
grant's value is between $1.65-million and $2.25-million, with the City committing
matching funds. It was recommended the City Commission decide the tankts location and
the citizen task force address related issues. Staff will meet with community members
and discuss the reclaimed water storage analysis.
It was questioned if silt testing of Stevenson's Creek had begun. Mr. Baier reported
the test, which costs $20,000, will be performed within two weeks. Results need to be
compared with other BraB water bodies. Information will be available by the end of May
(~~~. 1996. It was suggested staff use testing results from the Tampa Bay estuary project.
It was suggested other alternatives should be considered. Mr. Baier said
information is available regarding storing water on the grounds of Clearwater Country Club.
Concern was expressed a storage tank may lower nearby property values. The City
Manager recommended considering the old motor pool site near the path of the
transmission lines. Staff will review this option. In answer to a question, Mr. Baier said
pumping costs are substantially higher for all storage locations away from the A WT plant.
All costs and issues will be reviewed. Staff will notify North Greenwood associations
regarding the May 16, 1996, meeting.
Memorial Causeway Discussion & Uodate
Mr. Baier indicated the SEIR (State Environmental Impact Report) is at a stage.
where a decision is needed whether to upgrade the document to a formal PD&E (Project
Development and Environment) Study. The City Clerk reported the reimbursement bill was
passed by the legislature and does not require a project be on a road that intersects an
Interstate highway. Mr. Baier said the City Commission had declared replacing the
Memorial Causeway Bridge is the City's number one infrastructure project. To solidify the
City's position, he recommended the City Commission pass a resolution stating the project
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is safety related and identified as the City's most important project. The resolution will be
forwarded to FOOT (Florida Department or Transportation) and MPO (Metropolitan Planning
Organization) for them to place this project on their priority list. In answer to a question,
Mr. Baier said distribution of the $50.mil1ion cap has not been determined. FOOT will
establish limits after they receive a final copy of the bill. On Thursday, HDR will present a
project update. Mr. Baier will address upgrading the SEIR to a PO&E study, providing
current costs and the estimated cost to upgrade.
It was noted Representative Bilirakis had indicated he would pursue Federal funding
for the project. A separate federal level resolution will be issued. It was suggested
County funding also be pursued.
Mayor Garvey noted a mileage information sign on Cleveland Street is concealed by
foliage. Mr. Baier will contact FOOT. Mayor Garvey recommended 1-275 signage heading
North from downtown St. Petersburg include Clearwater.
Commissioner Seel concurred with County Commissioner Seibert's April 17. 1996,
letter encoursging street signs include block number information. She suggested installing
advance signing several blocks before major intersections.
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Commissioner Seel requested an update on the Pinellas Trail. Mr. Baier reported he
is awaiting a copy of correspondence from CSX indicating their willingness to alter the
easement on East Street. Mr. Baier said the Legal Department staff provided key
maneuvering on this issue and deserve thanks.
(Conttd from 03/21 & 04/18/96) Public Hearina & First Reading Ords. #5989.96 & #5990.
96 - Land Use Plan Amendment to Commercial General & CG Zonina for property located
at 401 S. Belcher Rd.. Sec. 18-29~16. M&B 23.11 (Gerry Staring / Natalie Moyles.
Trustee. LUP96~01. Z96-02)
This item was continued for the applicant to provide evidence MHP (Mobile Home
Park) residents affected by this rezoning were notified and that relocation alternatives were
identified for these residents. Six letters of objection from MHP residents were received.
The applicant has satisfied State resident relocation requirements.
The applicant wishes to rezone the 36~unit MHP located in a developed area just
North of Gulf~to~Bay Boulevard and East of Belcher Road. Staff feels it is appropriate to
redevelop the property to provide community and countywide commercial goods and
services. Surrounding properties have mostly commercial uses. with a medium density
residential use to the East. The subject property is zoned Mobile Home Park (MHP) and
has a Land Use Plan Classification of Residential Medium. It is proposed to rezone the
property General Commercial (CG). The applicant has not specified development plans.
Properties to the immediate North are in the County. Staff noted the proposed rezoning
will promote infill development and foster a consolidated commercial corridor.
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Central Permitting Director Scott Shuford said the requested rezoning is speculative
In nature. In answer to a question. he said the land's value would Increase with the
changed zoning. It was noted many of the mobile homes are deteriorated and cannot be
moved. He did not know how the large County enclave next door was created.
Consensus was that rezoning property does not require the submission of a plan.
Purchase of Permit. Plan CS. Permlt.pran Cashier softwaro. 1st vear maintenance &
related services from Tidemark Comouter ~vstem~, Seattle. WA, at an estimated
$105,000; approve estimated expenditure of $42,000 for Digital Equipment Corporation
AXP computer with financing of this to be provided under City's master lease-purchase
agreement
The proposed integrated software package will produce occupational licenses and
building permits, track building inspections and code enforcement activities. combined all
data into one database. and replace obsolete systems developed in the 70s and 80s. The
current system experiences frequent system errors, does not interface, and is not
compatible with Windows 95, the City's new standard PC operating system.
Central Permitting, Community Response, and Information Services participated in
the selection process. The selection team attended system demonstrations, conducted 12
telephone reference checks, and took two site visits to see the Tidemark system operating
in a live environment. A RFQ (request for qualification) was done in June 1995. fallowing
an unsuccessful RFP (request for proposal) in May 1995. RF? results were considered
t~ unsuccessful due to the high bids and limited number of responses. AFO results were
similar. Tidemark was the only responding vendor that offered a state of the art clientl
server based computer system.
Also requested is one Digital Equipment Corporation AX? database server, a state
of the art, Rise based system used to store large database files and handle resource
intensive inquiries and reporting functions. The AXP computer has a one-site 3-year
warranty for all CPU components.
An additional component. an Interactive Voice Response System estimated to cost
$30,000, wiU be supplied by a different vendor and purchased as a separate agenda item.
It was questioned if other bids were close. Concern was expressed repairs include
the expense of accommodations and transporting a repair person from Seattle. Mr.
Shuford said all involved were extremely judicious in reviewing cost and benefits. In
answer to a question, ha said the system has a 5~year lifa span although staff expects to
keep it longer. He hoped this expense would not occur again in five years.
Concern was expressed that funds set aside for the Municipal Services complex
computer system did not include this equipment and software. Mr. Shuford said this
upgrade was planned for a number of years and was not included in funding for the
complex's system. It was noted the payroll system also was a separate item. It was
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The Commission recessed from 10:48 to 11 :01 a.m.
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requested a list of systems proposed for the next three years be forwarded to the
Commission. The City Manager said these needs are addressed in the CIP (Capital
Improvement Budget).
Aocrove Downtown Clearwater Design Guidelines: Res. #96-35 - making findlnas &
adoDting deslpn guidelines for the Urban Center Zonina District; provide direction with
regard to other design review issues
The City Commission estabtished a design review program and created the ORB
(Design Review Board) to create an architectural review process for projects downtown
and in the commercial areas of Clearwater beach and North Greenwood. In accordance
with the City Code and Downtown Redevelopment Plan, the ORB has developed a set of
design guidelines for downtown. As part of their assigned duties, board members will
begin formulating design guidelines for Clearwater beach and North Greenwood.
The proposed design guidelines for downtown will govern the exterior features of
new construction, additions, renovations, signage, and site development. The program is
intended to be expeditious, user-friendly, educational in nature, and provide the regulatory
commitment to coordinate appropriate and compatible architectural design. Staff
recommends approval of the resolution.
,:.e..'~l Mr. Shuford noted the sign code provides sign bonus provisions for certain types of
\:',~J signage downtown. A City staff committee administers this program. Consensus was for
the ORB to administer the program addressing downtown sign code bonus provisions.
Mr. Shuford said appeals to ORB decisions will come before the City Commission.
In answer to a question, he said the ORB will review plans for all exterior work that
requires a permit. Design guidelines apply to commercial and residential property
downtown.
Staff had questioned if guidelines should cover additional areas. Requests have
been received to protect historical resources in the Harbor Oaks, Old Clearwater Bay, and
Bayview neighborhoods. Staff feels design guideline application is the most effective
method to protect these resources and provide neighborhood continuity.
It was suggested downtown guidelines should be in place for a while before other
areas are considered. It was noted Harbor Oaks is on the National Register of Historical
Places. It was felt it would be logical to address the neighborhood with design guidelines.
Consensus was to add Harbor Oaks, but to wait before establishing guidelines for
additional neighborhoods.
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The City and CRA (Community Redevelopment Agency) have limited grant programs
for architectural design assistance. Staff felt it appropriate to assign these pro"grams to
the ORB to administer. It was suggested CRA responsibilities not be modified until the
agency has a director. It was noted no funds currently are available for these programs.
mws04c.96
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'CLK CITY CLERK
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Previously, the CRA Executive Director made these decisions, not the CRA Trustees. It
was felt this responsibility can be changed later.
Mr. Shuford said staff will make a presentation on Thursday night regarding the
design guidelines and how they fit into the economic development plans for Clearwater.
The City Manager noted design review will slow down the permitting process. Mr. Shuford
suggested, with board approval, staff may be able to make decisions on some aspects of
design.
It was questioned how the board intends to enforce the goal of maintaining a
building's historical integrity. Design Planner Don McCarty said the rules do not mandate
incorporating historical features when a building is rehabilitated. The guidelines encourage
property owners to study their buildings' histories to appreciate previous uses. He said the
guidelines include the words "should" and 'fencourage, ,. not "shaW' and "mandate." Mr.
Shuford said the guidelines hope to encourage respect for the older buildings and character
of downtown even though there is no continuity in building design.
Beautification Committee - 2 appointments
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It was suggested the committee's size may be too large. It was recommended
staff request the board consider reducing the committee's size before appointing additional
members. Parks & Recreation Department Director Ream Wilson said the board meets on
Wednesday. He will notify the City Commission on Thursday regarding the board's
decision.
Parks & Recreation Board
a) Direction re Board's recommendation to reduce number of members to 7
Mr. Wilson said the board has lacked candidates for membership. He said the board
welcomed the opportunity to work with a seven member board.
Consensus was to bring back an ordinance to reduce the number of members to 7.
b) 2 appointments
This item will be pulled from Thursday's agenda due to the downsizing of the board.
It was noted advisory boards' scheduled meeting times may preclude citizens from
serving. It was suggested the City Commission consider changing meeting times so more
people, such as educators, can serve. It was suggested residency requirements also be
reviewed. It was felt large business and property owners who do not live in the City but
pay City taxes could provide important input to boards. It was noted these people may
have vested interests that do reflect the needs of those who live in the City. It was stated
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the City Commission is not required to appoint board members if only one candidate is
offered but can continue the item and direct staff to gather additional names.
Reaoooint Dick Evans to St. Petersbura/Clearwater Economic Develooment Council
Information was requested regarding how long Mr. Evans has served.
legislative Uodate
The City Clerk said the City's lobbyist, Jim Massie, is keeping tabs on the bill
concerning pension legislation. The Florida League of Cities has recommended studying
the proposal's impact before it is finalized. Funds for beach renourishment on Sand Key
remain in the budget. Representative Moroni's bill outlawing clandestine videotaping is
being added to the computer pornography bill.
City Manager Verbal Reports
MuniciDal Services buildina
. The City Manager reported the move into the new Municipal Services building has
begun. The Ribbon Cutting ceremony has been tentatively scheduled for June 2, 1996.
She requested a little forbearance from the public while staff becomes familiar with the
new building and telephone system.
Economic Oevelooment Svmoosium
Consensus was to schedule the Economic Development Symposium for June 11,
1996, at 9:00 a.m. The meeting will not be taped by C-View. The meeting's location will
be announced. '
Downtown Develooment Board Meeting
Due to two Commissioners not being able to attend, consensus was to cancel a
planned May 1. 1996, meeting with the DDS (Downtown Development Board).
Commissioner See I offered an outline of issues she felt need to be considered. She
suggested an advisory Task Force, exempt from the residency requirement and lasting two
to three months, may help coordinate the search. It was suggested long range goals, and
plans first need to be addressed.
Opposition was expressed to a suggestion to add an Assistant City Manager'
position, especially one paying more than the City Manager's salary. It was suggested the
City be careful in its pursuit of a candidate. It was felt seeking candidates from large cities
such as Miami is not necessary. Concern was expressed a previous lack of cooperation
between parties caused difficulties.
This issue will be added to the May 13, 1996, eRA agenda.
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Other Commission Action
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The City Manager suggested the City Commission meet with the DDB before filling
the position. She suggested the position be at the Assistant City Manager level for the
position's authority in the City and the respect it receives from other agencies. This
position will work closely with the County.
Consensus was to invite the DDS to the May 13, 1996 CRA meeting.
Federal Action Strike Team
The City Manager noted the Mayor is on the Florida League of Cities' Federal Action
Strike Team. A request has been received requesting the City take a position regarding
unfunded mandates for providing social services.
Consensus was for the Mayor to take a position on the City's behalf.
Commissioner Johnson said he represented the City at a recent Suncoast meeting
in St. Pete Beach.
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Commissioner Johnson referred to a letter from Bill Meany regarding a dangerous
situation on North Jefferson between Drew Street and Cleveland that could result in an
accident. Mr. Meany had recommended installing no parking signs on one side of the
street.
Commissioner Johnson referred to the Focus 2005 and said many staff members
are visionaries. He had read the report and complimented staff for an excellent
presentation. Deputy City Manager Kathy Rice said the, groups will be addressing the
Commission.
Commissioner Seel referred to a memorandum from Police Chief Klein regarding
proposed School Board student conduct code changes. It was suggested the City
Commission not address this issue unless additional details are known. Commissioner Seel
expressed concern expelling between 250 and 300 students may result in added incidents
of crime.
Commissioner Seel said she fully supports lobbyist registration but felt the current
system is cumbersome and difficult. She recommended lobbyists register annually and
suggested initiating a log-in system. It was suggested too many staff members are
addressed by the legislation. The City Attorney suggested lobbyists could be given the
opportunity to register after the fact. In answer to a question, she said Clearwater has the
most cumulatively restrictive rules in the area. The issue will be addressed at the May 13,
1996 Work Session.
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Commissioner HooDer questioned if Mr. Frank's death affectod the golf course
lease. The City Attorney indicated she would check on this situation.
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Mavor Garvev questioned if Commission members were receiving more than one set
of minutes from City boards. The City Clerk indicated the Commission is sent copies of all
minutes marked tiNot Approve.d," at the time they are distributed to board members. If a
substantial error is found, a corrected page will be sent to Commission members. A
second full set should not be sent.
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Commissioner HOODer said he was impressed by a recent letter from a professional.
volleyball player who commended the Mayor for taking more than a casual interest in the
recent tournament.
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Commissioner HOODer expressed concern regarding a letter noting the location of an
undercover police office.
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Commissioner HooDer said he was pleased to receive a recent letter commending
Central Permitting staff.
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Commissioner Clark questioned if staff attended the last START meeting regarding
Red Tide.
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Commissioner Clark said he was glad to have received minutes of the recent PPC
(Pinellas Planning Council). He recommended distributing minutes to City Commission
members from meetings of the MPO, PPC, etc. when discussion addresses Clearwater
concerns.
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Commissioner Clark expressed concern the Development Code Adjustment Board
meets with only three members. It was noted this was because of the Chair's illness and
a death in the family of the newest appointee.
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The Mayor expressed concern regarding variances being granted on Clearwater
beach. She did not think because a structure "has always been there" is justification not
to meet code.
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Mavor Garvev questioned if a Commissioner can attend the Mayorts Council
meeting on May 1, 1996, in her place.
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Mavor Garvev reported she has appointed Carol Warren as her representative on the
Fiscal Review Committee.
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Mavor Garvev questioned when a meeting is scheduled to address parking issues at
the Harborview Center. Ms. Rice hoped the issues had been solved.
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Discussion of Fiscal Year 1996/97 Budget
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The City Manager said the City's current goals are Public Safety, Economic
Development, and Tourism. All departments have formalized goals to support the City's
three main goals. She suggested continuing the current goals. She reported Tourism
Director Jean Sherry took a road show to visit VSI's (Visitor Services, Inc.) offices and is
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mws04c.96
11
04/29/96
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working with both Chambers of Commerce and the CVB (Convention & Visitors Bureau).
The CVB's relocation plans were questioned. It was requested staff look into these plans.
It was notod Ms. Sherry recently hosted a 30-minute show for C-View TV on the
dynamics of tourism. The City Manager felt this is an excellent use of C-View TV. The
show educated residents regarding the importance of tourism. Commissioner Johnson
agreed tourism Is a top priority.
The City Manager reported to address Public Safety, the Fire Department is giving
away smoke detectors and will install them. General Services has established a Good ,
Neighbor program and phone in reports from their vehicles that travel throughout the City.
She said Public Safety also is addressed through Youth programs, an unsafe structure
program, and Community Policing. Economic Development has initiated a neighborhood
partnership program, design guidelines, etc. She questioned if the City Commission wants
to add or establish priorities such as assisting neighborhoods and encouraging user
friendliness which alone has enormous implications.
The Mayor noted the City has received few service complaints during the past
several years. Commissioner Hooper suggested the City Commission delegate more
responsibility to the Central Permitting Director to help Clearwater become a more user .
friendly City. The City Manager said if the Commission agrees to make the City more user
friendly, the budget will reflect that concern. She said communication issues are beginning
to be resolved.
Commissioner Clark agreed the current top goals are most important. He expressed
a willingness to loosen the reins to allow streamlining. Commissioner Johnson said he was
willing to delegate more responsibility. The Mayor recommended revising some ordinances
that may cause more problems than they solve.
The City Manager said staff will bring forward a proposed budget that challenges
staff to address the three goals of Public Safety, Economic Development, and Tourism,
adding streamlining, user friendly, and communication as priorities. StaWs goal is to
present a balanced budget with options. Commissioner Seel hoped streamlining will save
the City money in the long run. Commissioner Clark recommended the Utility Department
and all City departments work to be more user friendly. The City Manager noted these
goals will result in the City changing its hiring goals to attract employees who are team
players with a diversity of skills and service attitudes.
Adjourn
The meeting adjourned at 12:34 p.m.
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12
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