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COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY-ANNUAL REPORT FY2007-2008 community redevelopment agency ~-,--~-"~ .-- '!i11 ._ .. .. I. iI ;i i t ... H: ;J . . I......". .......' . . 1Il11111 . -- ... -- . ~'. I . .' _H_ ! """" . Prepared for: Pinellas County Board of County Commissioners March 2009 Prepared by: CRA Staff/Economic Development and Housing Department ~ Clearwater o A. Introduction The Florida Community Redevelopment Act of 1969 (Florida Statutes: Title XI, Chapter 163, Part III) provides a vehicle for local communities to form a Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) and create a Redevelopment Trust Fund through Tax Increment Financing (TIF) for financing improvements within a target area. The City of Clearwater established its CRA in FY 81-82. The CRA was expanded in 2004 and a new redevelopment plan was approved in February 2004. Pursuant to Chapter 163.356(3)(c) of the Florida Statutes, a progress report of the year's redevelopment activities, including a complete financial statement of assets, liabilities, income and expenses, is due March 31 of each year. This annual report briefly summarizes the redevelopment activities conducted by the CRA in FY 07 -08 and includes the year's financial statements. In FY 07-08, the CRA concentrated on the completion of the Cleveland Street Streetscape Phase I project, the ongoing construction of Station Square Park and the planning of the Cleveland Streets cape Phase II project. To better serve the needs of a revitalizing downtown, the CRA hired a Downtown Manager to spearhead retail recruitment efforts and oversee the creation of a district web site, the implementation of numerous programs and the coordination of marketing with the Downtown Development Board (DDB). Other initiatives included the development of a "brand" for downtown; hiring of a retail recruitment firm to assist in the development of a strategy for retail recruitment and repopulation of the retail spaces in the district; preparation of a marketing and leasing plan to implement the retail strategy and assist with the negotiations between retail contacts and property owners. The CRA worked closely with developers, the DDB, Main Street Program, property owners, Clearwater Regional Chamber of Commerce, and other stakeholders to coordinate projects that impact Downtown and spur catalytic development within the CRA district. The CRA's budget for FY 07-08 was $2,746,487. B. New Activity \Vater's Edge Development Agreement On Dee. 12,2006, a Development Agreement was approved between the CRA and OPUS South Development, LLC concerning Water's Edge located on Cleveland Street. Water's Edge has 157 condominium units and 10,000 square feet of retail space. 1~ The Development Agreement outlines the general terms and incentives for this project. The CRA will reimburse impact fees not to exceed $535,000 and reimburse sidewalk and site improvements following the Osceola Streets cape Conceptual Design not to exceed $500,000. Starting in the fiscal year in which tax increments are expected to be generated (2009), the CRA will budget for the anticipated reimbursement to the developer, and budget thereafter until the reimbursement is paid in full. The total payments by the CRA shall not exceed $1,035,000. The construction of Water's Edge was completed in September 2008. \V /\T E R'S E lJ r; E The Strand at Clearwater Centre Development Agreement On Jan. 16,2007, a Development Agreement was approved between the CRA and Clearwater Centre, LLC concerning the Strand at Clearwater Centre located on Cleveland Street. The Strand at Clearwater Centre will have 71 tower residences, 17 city homes and 21,000 square feet of retail! restaurant space. The Development Agreement outlines the general terms and incentives for this project. The CRA will reimburse impact fees not to exceed $425,000 as they become due, and certain water and utility relocation costs not to exceed $260,000. The CRA also agreed to make streets cape and landscape improvements in a total amount not to exceed the lesser of $500,000, or the amount of funds remaining in the project account after payment of the impact fees and utility relocation upon completion. The total payments by the CRA shall not exceed $1,040,000. .-.~.",~.. TH E STRANU I\T (:LEl\RWi\TER Construction is on schedule and expected to be completed in summer 2010. C E NTH E iY\arriott Residence Inn Development Agreement On May 15, 2007, a Development Agreement was approved between the CRA and Clearwater Hospitality Properties, LLC. The Marriott Residence Inn has 115 hotel units to include studios, one-bedroom and two-bedroom suites. ~2 The Development Agreement outlines the general terms and incentives for this project. The CRA will reimburse impact and permit fees not to exceed $178,000, payable upon receipt of a Certificate of Occupancy. The CRA will also reimburse the City- only portion of the TIF to offset extraordinary costs associated with the amenity package required by the Marriott Corporation, and to allow the project to meet minimum rates of return necessary to construct the project. The total reimbursement under the City's portion of TIF shall not exceed $400,000. The construction of the Marriott Residence Inn was completed in September 2008. i'v\ARRI DTT RES! U ENeE I Ni'.j Cleveland Street and Prospect Lake Park Site On May 8,2007, a Request For Proposals/Qualifications (RFP/Q) was released to select a qualified Development Team to successfully purchase and develop the 4.13+/- acre site located on Cleveland Street and Prospect Avenue (formerly known as Mediterranean Village). The CRA desired a residential infill project with a commercial component. The deadline for submissions was June 29, 2007. On July 18,2007 a Selection Committee, made up of the CRA Executive Director and City staff, evaluated the written proposals and identified three finalists who most closely met the objectives of the CRA. The three finalists were invited to make formal, detailed in-person presentations to the Selection Committee on August 1 and 2, 2007. After deliberation and discussion, the Selection Committee unanimously selected Miles Development Partners of Atlanta, Georgia as the Preferred Developer. On Sept. 17, 2007, the CRA approved a 90-day period of Exclusive Negotiation during which the CRA Executive Director was authorized to negotiate a Development and Purchase Agreement. On Dee. 17,2007, the CRA approved an additional 90-day period of exclusive negotiation to allow orderly completion of negotiations. On Feb. 19,2008, a Development Agreement was approved with Miles Development Partners for the purchase and development of 200-249 residential multi-family dwelling units and up to 16,000 square feet of retail space. Due to the current market and economic circumstances, Miles Development terminated the Development Agreement with the CRA effective July 24, 2008. The CRA will continue to market this site for redevelopment. 3'2 Cleveland Street and Prospect Lake Park Site - Environmental On March 7, 2002, the City Commission approved an Interlocal Agreement between the City and the CRA regarding the Brownfields site initially known as Dimmitt Chevrolet Property B to facilitate the proposed redevelopment of the site. The CRA purchased the land. The City committed to certain environmental remediation on the property pursuant to the BSRA entered into between the City and FDEP on July 26,2001. The City completed the environmental remediation of the property in August 2004. On Aug. 15,2005, the CRA accepted title to a 2,317.46-square-foot portion of the former south half right-of-way of Park Street, vacated by the City on Aug. 4, 2005. The City requested a letter from the FDEP confirming that the City had completed rehabilitation of contaminated soils at the site and would address the site's remaining groundwater contamination through an approved plan for natural attenuation with monitoring. A memo dated May 25, 2005 stated that the FDEP Department Office of Counsel had the Restrictive Covenant Agreement for groundwater under review. However, the time frame to obtain this document from FDEP involved many months and involved the City's legal counsel. A Restrictive Covenant agreement was approved by FDEP on Aug. 29, 2006 to prevent the use of groundwater at the site, to reduce or eliminate the risk of exposure of the contaminants to the environment and to users or occupants of the property, and to reduce or eliminate the threat of migration of the contaminants. The City received the Comfort Letter on Sept. 6, 2006. The only environmental issue remaining is the monitoring of the groundwater. FDEP approved a Groundwater Monitoring Plan (MOP) for this site in June 2004. Following well installation, groundwater monitoring will continue until four quarterly monitoring events show that Residential Groundwater Cleanup Target levels (GCTTs) are acceptable. A Groundwater Monitoring Report will be submitted to FDEP in October 2008 that presents the findings of groundwater monitoring for the first half of the first year. The report includes site background, a description of field activities, an evaluation of the data, conclusions and recommendations. Parking Agreement With COllllllunication Service for the Deaf-Video Relay Services! LLC (CSDVRS) The Economic Development and Housing staff successfully worked with CSDVRS to relocate their headquarters from South Dakota to Downtown Clearwater. CSDVRS is the world's first ~4 nationwide video relay service provider. The company forecasted the creation of 45 jobs by Dee. 31,2008 and an additional 17 by Dec. 31, 2009 with an average wage of $69,666. To help induce the creation of these fulltime jobs, the State's Qualified Target Industry Tax Refund Incentive (QTI) was approved by the City Council, Pin ell as County and the State of Florida. CSDVRS is leasing space at the Bank of America building located at 600 Cleveland St. The lease includes only 15 paid parking spaces. CSDVRS requested economic assistance from the CRA for additional parking spaces needed for their employees. On Feb. 4, 2008 the CRA approved a grant effective March 1,2008 to pay the cost of 15 parking spaces in the Garden Avenue Garage for 24 months. The CRA allocated $16,200 from its Economic Development Incentive line item. East Gateway District Five-Year Action Program The community-endorsed East Gateway District Five-Year Action Program was approved by the CRA on May 13, 2008. Based on input from residents, businesses and community organizations, the Action Program aims to: 1) engage the neighborhood's diverse interests in the revitalization effort; 2) achieve stability by addressing social, economic and physical issues; 3) establish a unique and positive identity for East Gateway; and 4) attract new investment in both residential and business sectors. Part of the Action Program involves in-depth examination of the area's physical and economic opportunities and challenges. Planning, regulatory and economic strategies coupled with strategic partnerships will be used to address neighborhood issues and capitalize on existing assets. The program's approach is to address complex issues from many different angles by employing technical expertise in public policy, public health and safety, planning, engineering, communications and neighborhood relations. - EiI$l Ga!C'.....Jy Oistncl - Five-Year Action Program Clrarh ;11~! ~ ""--- '_.........-"'--' .~:-.-.--.......... ... ,,-j"'-'-- .~-~ "*,.~ ..... The CRA allocated $50,000 to fund a variety of activities, including advertising and supplies needed to implement communications and neighborhood relations. ACTION PLAN 5\2 I: f I ',~ ," :', i : If Ii r i I [ \ [ I !' P ,'" \ f ;, I ,\ i; I r\ !: y .'\ ~j N II :\ I R r i) [1 H: I Y :! : j I:: ;; I, ! I : 1 East Gateway Task Force In late 2005, the East Gateway Task Force was formed to identify strategies to effect positive change in the East Gateway District. The Task Force is comprised of staff from Development & Neighborhood Services, Economic Development & Housing, Engineering, Parks & Recreation, Planning, Police, Public Communications and Solid Waste departments. The Task Force provides leadership in the implementation of the Action Program and its members develop work plans for action items led by their respective department. Task Force meetings are held bi- monthly or more frequently, as needed. East GatewayStakeholder Ad'/isory Gruup Because change is inherent to the community revitalization process, meaningful public involvement is critical to successful implementation of an Action Program. As such, the empowerment of stakeholders is envisioned by the Five-Year Action Program. Furthermore, an Action Program guiding principle is to "value the triple bottom line" when assessing and deciding East Gateway projects and initiatives. By illuminating positive and negative impacts of proposals on the economy, environment and social fabric, community input can help achieve balanced outcomes. Established in 2008, the East Gateway Stakeholder Advisory Group (SAG) brings unique knowledge and opinions to complement the knowledge and skills of the Task Force and City/CRA decision-makers to guide Action Program implementation. 1be intent of the SAG is to: 1) provide first-hand information regarding neighborhood issues; 2) flag potential controversies; 3) provide fresh perspectives; 4) provide solutions that best meet East Gateway needs, preferences and values; 5) identify the public that needs to be involved and the kinds of input needed; and 6) suggest ways to increase community involvement. SAG meetings are held bi-monthly or more frequently, as needed, and are open to the public. ;\IJV1SllRY r;l{flliP East Gateway Community N\eetill~s and Events A community meeting was held on June 24, 2008, to present the newly adopted East Gateway District Five- Year Action Program and solicit interest in various forms of community organizations (e.g., crime watches, neighborhood associations). ~6 : Il I~'\ ',' ! t l 1 v j\ I I. '. i 1 J I) 1\" ! N I f~:~ t ~,~ \: \( i\ ~< ~11 :; 'l! t f ~! (j i~! : ,{ / {J fl I ') {1 fl fl On Aug. 2, 2008, an estimated 300 people turned out for the East Gateway Neighborhood "Back to School" Celebration to enjoy activities, food and the company of other East Gateway residents. The YWCA Hispanic Outreach Center, Clearwater Police Department, Galactics Clearwater International, FC, and other community partners attended the event to bring greater awareness of services offered to residents. Although fun was reason enough for the celebration, the greater mission was community building-which is important to revitalizing neighborhoods like East Gateway. By increasing "social capital:' the East Gateway community improves its potential to achieve neighborhood goals. East Gateway Community Policing Innovation The East Gateway District Five-Year Action Program responds to community input relative to drug dealing, prostitution and street crimes through a directive to increase police presence and crime reduction within East Gateway. The CRA and Police Department entered into an interlocal agreement providing for a higher level of police service in the CRA redevelopment area. The agreement enabled two additional police officers to patrol East Gateway, particularly during peak crime periods and at peak crime locations. The CRA approved the Interlocal Agreement on Aug. 18, 2008. The term of the agreement is from Oct.!, 2008 through Sept. 30,2009. B/\l:K Tfl SCHIJilL EVE~JT BIKE P/\TfUJL The CRA, in FY08/09, will allocate $134,023.46 from its East Gateway Project line item to fund the interlocal agreement. East Gateway District FaGade and Building Lot Improvement Program Because strong commercial districts have a stabilizing influence on neighborhoods, the East Gateway District Fa~ade & Building Lot Improvement Program was proposed. The program would provide incentives for private reinvestment within aging commercial corridors as a way of enhancing the physical environment and, in turn, the economic and social viability of the area. 7}i The program objectives are to: 1) stabilize existing businesses and stimulate new business activity by improving the overall visual quality of existing buildings; 2) improve the view from the street by focusing on improvements most visible to customers, neighboring merchants and residents, and pass-by traffic; 3) establish a positive neighborhood image and a "sense of place" that are vital to the economic revitalization of the area; 4) promote green building and Crime Prevention through Environmental Design (CPTED) techniques applicable to building facade and site design; and 5) leverage City funds for neighborhood revitalization and economic development by encouraging private investment in facade and building lot improvements. Funding for the program would be derived from the CRA East Gateway Project line item ($20,000 for design services) and u.s. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds ($75,000 for project construction) . The Stakeholder Advisory Group has indicated support for the proposed program. It is anticipated that the CRA will consider program approval in 2009. East Gateway DowntO\f/ll/Beach Gateway Improvements During development of the Action Program, the business community expressed concern about the relocation of SR 60 in conjunction with the new Memorial Causeway Bridge and the associated reductions in East Gateway traffic volumes. The community asked for an attention grabbing entryway feature at the intersection of Gulf to Bay Boulevard, Highland Avenue and Court Street that would convey a sense of arrival to motorists, pedestrians and cyclists and reinforce community identity in East Gateway. Safety at the intersection was also a concern. City staff developed preliminary design concepts including landscaping, public art and roadway enhancements. The Project would maximize views and vistas into the East Gateway District from SR 60. The City previously allocated $1,500,000 from Penny for Pinellas 2 funds, but more recently requested staff to generate designs for a lower cost project. Country Club TO\f/nhomes To increase the supply of owner- occupied, workforce-housing units in the East Gateway District, the City provided a $700,000 loan through ~8 CCJtINTf<.Y CLUB TUWNHON\ES CDBG funds for the purchase of property for a 36-unit townhouse project located at Drew Street and N. Betty Lane. A site plan for the proposed residential development will be submitted to the City in October 200S. The Developer held discussions with the CRA to investigate possible incentives for this project. Cleveland Street District FaGade Improvement Program The CRA approved the Scope of Work for the team of Wallis Murphey Boyington Architects, Wilson Miller, and Swan Development Advisors in response to a Request For Proposals (RFP) for the Cleveland Street Fa~ade Design Analysis at the April IS, 2005 CRA meeting. The three goals outlined were: 1) identify opportunities for fa~ade improvements along Cleveland Street, from Osceola to Myrtle Avenues in downtown Clearwater; 2) prepare illustrative concepts of fa~ade improvements to selected buildings; and 3) establish a vision for building design, reflective of Clearwater's unique character. The team proposed that the City provide grants and loans to property owners whose intended renovations and improvements contributed to the Cafe Society or Sidewalk Cafe District. On Feb. 2, 2007, a Request For Qualifications (RFQ) for the development of the Fa~ade Improvement Program guidelines was sent out and Swan Development .. Advisors, Ine. along with Market Knowledge were selected. The program developed several tools to include..-.. architectural design assistance to be provided by the CRA and funded by the DDB via contracts with local architects and two financial incentives: (1) up to $10,000 of matching grant funding and (2) up to $25,000 of zero interest loan funds. On Sept. 4, 2007, the CRA approved the Cleveland Street District Fa~ade Improvement Program. F!\ C;\ [] ElM P R lJ V E E ~l T The Cleveland Street District Fa~ade Improvement Program guidelines were sent to the property owners and business owners on Cleveland Street. Follow-up phone calls were made and meetings were held with eight property owners to further discuss the elements of the program. Seven property owners have taken advantage of architectural design services for 11 buildings. Two property owners have taken the next step to enhance their storefronts with grant assistance in the amount of $20,000. As new business owners come to downtown, staff ensures that they are aware of the program and meetings are held with those who express interest. The marketing of this program will continue throughout the next fiscal year. 9~ Sidewalk Cafe Furniture Grant Program '':... -.J II Ji In April 2005, the CRA initiated a Fayade Design Analysis;~ -11 for Cleveland Street within the Cleveland Street District. --- Recommendations from the analysis called for changes to the CRA's existing Fayade Improvement Program and pursuit of a unifying concept under which efforts and resources could be prioritized and allocated. The unifying concept chosen was the Cleveland Street Cafe District, which promotes a sidewalk cafe environment. On Jan. 14, 2008, the CRA approved the Sidewalk Cafe Furniture Grant Program. The grant provides financial assistance to eligible applicants seeking to furnish an approved sidewalk cafe area within the Cleveland Street District. This one-time grant funds up to 75 percent of the total project cost, to a maximum of $2,500 per grant award. This project is funded by the DDB and administered by the CRA. An applicant must meet certain standards set forth by the CRA and funds are disbursed as a reimbursement upon final CRA staff inspection of the furniture installation. Three merchants were approved for the grant, although only one has submitted for reimbursement. Downtown tv\arketinfj and Implementation Plan The public relations and marketing firm of Vaughn Wedeen Creative submitted their report that included a strategy to establish a clear identity for downtown Clearwater and the DDB. The DDB allocated $20,000 for professional services to undertake this project. A draft report was developed outlining a preliminary strategy, message, budget, implementation plan and timeline and was presented to the DDB at a special meeting on Aug. 30,2006. In late September 2006, Vaughn Wedeen Creative, Inc., with direction from the board, finalized the report including draft designs of proposed materials, budget for material development, printing and fabrication. Vaughn Wedeen recommended the City create a communications and promotion plan that focused on Cleveland Street. The plan would help to better define potential development and create a positive image for Downtown. The report was the basis for the CRA's strategy for branding and promoting the "Cleveland Street Districf' The report also included specific recommendations and a budget for implementing the branding program. Upon review of the report, the DDB retained Vaughn Wedeen to develop several logos for consideration. The DDB chose a logo to forward to the CRA for their review and comment. ~1O t: (] M M 1I N I r Y R [ IJ E V [ I fl P M [ N TAr; ENe Y ANN 11 i\ I R f P [] R r f Y ! () () 7 2 (] () 8 To ensure that the new logo was consistent with the image of a revitalized downtown Clearwater, the CRA requested several additional logos in April 2007 from Vaughn Wedeen that could be market tested. Those that participated in the testing were likely users of new downtown amenities. Vaughn Wedeen developed a total of four logos that represented a range of options from traditional to modern/edgy. The options were intended to help reposition downtown Clearwater and brand the "Cleveland Street District" as the new up-and-coming destination. The Cleveland Street District is defined as the area from Osceola to Myrtle avenues and Pierce to Drew streets. Geographically, this corresponds with the Downtown Fa~ade Improvement Program and Sidewalk Cafe District approved by the CRA on Sept. 4, 2007. I) S i\ I r: r ili i d On Dee. 3,2007, the CRA approved, after a yearlong collaborative process with the public, the DDB, Public Communications and Economic Development, a new brand identity for downtown Clearwater. The "Cleveland Street District" brand and logo reflects a new energy that captures the improvements accomplished in downtown and the positive direction for the district. As a follow-up to the approval, Economic Development and Public Communications provided guidelines for the use and application of the new brand. On Feb. 19,2008, the CRA approved the Cleveland Street District Logo Guidelines entitled "Cleveland Street Branding and Style Guide:' The new logo is used on various media to include the Cleveland Street District Streetscene newsletter and bi-weekly update; a Cleveland Street District postcard directing recipients to signup for the district newsletter; a DDB sponsored eco-friendly reusable bag that is distributed at events; and in event advertisements within the district. Retail Recruitment and N\arketil1~j Sel-vices On Jan. 14,2008, the CRA released a RFP for Retail Recruitment and Marketing Services with the objective being to support and enhance the existing retail base within the Cleveland Street District. On Feb. 22, 2008, a five-member selection committee short-listed three proposals that best met the selection criteria. On March 6,2008, the short-listed firms made oral presentations to further justify their qualifications. On March 3, 2008, the CRA retained Economics Research/ Downtown Works of Washington nc. to evaluate retail conditions in the Cleveland Street District and to create a Retail Strategy and Implementation Program. 11 'fl r: ~, ;y \ \,\ :! ~j i ! '{ I,; r I: t V I i 11 P !\ \ I '. j i\ (; ! ~\ I: Y i\ N ~~ : I 1\ I i!. I ! I ~ i I{: ; 'v 'r: I; I /: I 11 H The Retail Strategy and Implementation Program was adopted by the CRA in August 2008. The program guides CRA staff in recruiting unique, destination retail and restaurants. Their philosophy is if people are provided a unique merchandise mix with one-of-a-kind retailers and restaurants they will visit the district because of its interesting tenant mix. The consultant's approach to accomplishing this is through a dedicated retail recruiter whose primary responsibility is generating retail prospects. The Downtown Manager acts as the retail recruiter. The approach is hands-on with more emphasis on action, on-the-ground retail recruitment. The retail recruiter has been actively recruiting since adoption of the program. Though the consultant's contract will end in the spring of 2009, the recruitment process will continue to ensure that qualified tenants are establishing themselves in the district and are furthering the destination downtown concept. The CRA allocated $165,000 from its Retail Attraction/Assistance and Downtown Redevelopment line items. C I cl vel and S t r e e t 0 is t ri c t Ban il e r Pro fJ rCllll Elll d G LJ ide I i n e s To further embrace the Cleveland Street District logo, the DDB funded almost $10,000 for the initial district logo banners and brackets that were installed on the Progress Energy light poles. To advance the CRA's vision to develop downtown Clearwater as a vibrant destination for commerce, culture and tourism, the CRA proposed to display street pole banners bearing artists' work. The aim is to further enhance the image of the Cleveland Street District as an "Outdoor Gallery:' The program will build upon and complement the Cleveland Street District's art -related efforts, such as the Cleveland Street District Rotating Sculptures Exhibition-Sculpture360. The CRA will assist with management of the program in concert with the City's Cultural Affairs Division. The CRA approved the program at their July 14, 2008 meeting. The DDB allocated $4,000 from its Downtown Marketing Plan Implementation line item for the production of the fall banner program, Clearwater Gets Jazzed. There will be two banner programs per calendar year. Local artists will submit all artwork. ~ 12 IllSTRICT BANNER Harborview Redevelopment Process, Timetable and Developer Query f'{\aterial On April 16, 2007, the CRA discussed their development priorities for the next several years, with the intent of determining the Board's priorities and establishing an appropriate Work Program. At the conclusion of that discussion, the Board determined that commencement of a process for the redevelopment of the Harborview Center should be the first priority and instructed staff to prepare a proposed redevelopment process, timetable and materials. On March 3, 2008 staff presented the CRA with a redevelopment process/strategy that reflected a significant degree of market reality, including front -end input from the development community that would heighten the likelihood that an RFP would lead to successful development. Many questions developed over the course of the analysis with further discussion needed. The CRA is continuing to analyze the redevelopment potential for the Harborview site at this time. c. Multi-year Projects and Commitments Cleveland StreelscElj]e -- Phase I Construction As the City's traditional downtown main street, it was important that Cleveland Street offer a pedestrian - friendly environment that attracts residential and destination development, especially restaurant and retail activity. The project was a central element in the City's downtown revitalization strategy. The contract was awarded to Gibbs & Register on April 17, 2006, and construction began on June 12,2006. The $10.4 million construction cost was funded from Penny for Pinellas (sales tax), the CRA trust fund, a Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) grant and utility funds. The Scope of Work included demolition, earthwork, grading, paving, drainage, utilities, electrical, lighting, site furnishings, special features, signage, landscaping and irrigation. The contractor was given 548 consecutive calendar days to complete the project. Coordinated communication between City staff, the contractor and merchants was a key contributor to the project's success. Twice-monthly progress meetings were held with the 13 '2 contractor, construction division, utility companies and various city departments to address issues, concerns, project progress and the next two-week construction schedule. These meetings facilitated effective coordination and communication between all parties involved. The staffs of the Public Communications and Economic Development departments created a Communications Plan to keep the public well informed at each stage of the construction process. The plan included: a "Toolkit" resource binder with information about the project and public relations and marketing ideas (prepared by the City's Main Street Program volunteers); monthly "Hard Hat" meetings held in restaurants within the project area to provide merchants with information on activities planned for the month ahead; a monthly newsletter; a downtown web site; e-mail lists; post cards with the rendering of the streets cape for merchants to mail out with upcoming sales; displays in 10 downtown locations with brochure and newsletter racks; a business assistance brochure listing available resources; signage directing customers to two hours of free parking at the Garden Avenue Garage; banners at key intersections with "Under Construction and Open 4 Business" theme that included names of downtown businesses'; and sandwich board signs at street corners to promote businesses. As each block was completed, a block opening celebration was held to encourage visitors to view the work in progress. The streets cape project was completed in Dee. 2007. A streetscape completion ceremony took place on Dec.14, 2007 with elected officials from the City and County, representatives from Bellomo- Herbert (the team that created the Master Streetscape and Wayfinding Design) and Gibbs and Register (the construction company that built the project). Station Square Park Construction The Station Square Park project was initially part of the Cleveland Street Streets cape Project Phase I, but was removed from the project due to budget constraints and increased construction costs at the time. In the interim, the site was used as a staging area for the Station Square Condominiums project located on the adjacent property to the east. In March 2006, Station Square Park demolition began with the removal of tables, seating and trees deemed substandard by the City's Arborist. Two Station Square Park food vendors were relocated to the western edge of the park and Biltmore Construction fenced in the staging area. In early June ~ 14 STATION SOU/\RE PARK 2008, Station Square Condominiums no longer required the park site for construction staging and cleared the site of all their equipment and materials. The City advertised the plans for Station Square Park and received several bids. Angle & Schmid, Ine. was selected as the preferred contractor and the CRA approved the selection at their June 16,2008 meeting. The park will be used by downtown workers and as a venue for city events. The Scope of Work includes new pavers, a decorative archway entrance, entertainment stage, movable site furniture (tables, chairs, umbrellas), lighting, a clock, decorative fence and landscaping. Project completion is scheduled for February 2009. The CRA allocated $800,000 from its Capital Improvement/Station Square line item to assist in funding this project. Cleveland Streetscape - Phase II Phase II is the next phase of the streetscape program that was developed by Bellomo- Herbert and Company in August 2002. With the development of The Strand at Clearwater Centre, the Development Agreement with IMR/CGI, and the availability of the Prospect Lake Redevelopment Site, Phase II of the Cleveland Street Streetscape project is a critical infrastructure project that will continue to encourage and facilitate the City and CRA's redevelopment goals. # ,~f .~ ~ . !':""" '~~,- (lnU~HP H~m H~m~(~p{ PlUll{ II CO"({P! Pl~" :' ;'HV'"'' "'~~.'~," The conceptual plan for Phase II contains the look and feel of the first phase of the Cleveland Street Streetscape, but with a less intense, and therefore less expensive, treatment. The features will include earthwork, grading, paving, underground utilities, lighting, site furnishings, mast arms, and public art. It is anticipated that the CRA will approve the conceptual plan at their Nov. 3, 2008 meeting. PHASE II The CRA has allocated $1,574,000 from its Downtown Streetscape line item and will allocate an additional $1,622,925 as the funds become available over the next two to three fiscal years to assist in funding this project. 15 '.2 Downtown Boat Slips The DDB and the CRA, recognizing the economic impact that boat slips would bring to Clearwater, agreed to contribute a total of $2 million (CRA's commitment of$1.5 million and DDB's commitment of $500,000), over a ten year period, to fund the capital expenses necessary for construction and maintenance of as many as 140 boats slips, docks, boardwalk, promenade and related facilities on the downtown waterfront near Coachman Park. On March 13,2007, Clearwater residents approved, by referendum, the boat slips project. A RFP was released B II AT S L II) S on Dee. 19,2007 for design build services. On Feb. 8,2008 bids were received, and on April 17, 2008 the City Council approved Misener Marine Construction, Inc. as the preferred contractor. A Notice To Proceed was issued on May 23, 2008. Environmental permitting is anticipated to be completed by March 2009 with construction lasting approximately six months. Cleanvater Automotive Salvage Yard Long an impediment to the future redevelopment around the Prospect Lake area, an automotive junkyard was acquired by the City in October 2003 through an exchange of real property between the City and Clearwater Mall, LLC. The land value of the exchange was $1.2 million. This exchange contract resulted in a remnant parcel (Miller Property) that the CRA acquired, with a $48,000 loan from the DDB, which consolidates the block into a potential redevelopment site. Given the prior uses of the site as a foundry and an automotive scrap yard, the City hired Tampa Bay Engineering (TBE) to assist with site demolition, environmental assessment and remediation activities. TBE prepared the approved Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) Brownfields Site Rehabilitation Agreement (BSRA). In order to prepare the site for an official groundbreaking and cleanup, a fence was installed and the property was cleared of vegetation. A Groundbreaking Demolition Party was held March 1, 2006 celebrating the beginning of a new face for this downtown eyesore. The program covered the importance of Brownfields redevelopment in downtown, acquisition of the property, the Brownfields process, funding for remediation, and environmental issues. ~ 16 In attendance were residents, businesses, city, state, county and federal government officials. Site-wide delineation sampling of exposed soils was completed and followed with a contract to demolish six commercial structures awarded to Cross Environmental Services on Feb. 15, 2006. The structures were removed and a Waste Disposal and Volume Summary Report was sent to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). In order to continue to prepare the site for redevelopment, the CRA accepted title from the City of Clearwater for the Clearwater Automotive Salvage Yard and the former Miller property on July 18,2006. On July 18, 2006 a partnership between the City and the CRA was established through an Interlocal Agreement to jointly complete the environmental remediation. A $350,000 intergovernmental loan to the CRA was approved from the City's Brownfields Revolving Loan Cleanup Fund. Repayment of the loan is required upon redevelopment! disposal of the property. In September 2006, Jamson Environmental was contracted for the excavation and offsite disposal of building foundations and sub-grade structures (including tanks/sumps), excavation, staging and offsite disposal of contaminated debris. Total costs incurred were $218,491.26. Phase I-II - III delineation samples were collected from November 2006 through January 2007. In January/February 2007, more than 1,131 tons of contaminated soil was excavated and disposed of. From March 2007 through October 2007 delineation continued of off-site soil impacts. Final soil excavation and removal, both on-site and off-site, will be performed pending FDEP approval of the Brownfields Site Assessment Report Addendum and Interim Source Removal Plan to be submitted to FDEP. In order to obtain a Site Rehabilitation Completion Order (SRCO) from FDEP for the Clearwater Auto site, the City is obligated to address off-site contamination related to the Clearwater Auto site. The presence of foundry sands/slag material at depths of between two and six feet below land surface was documented in soil borings at the Ron's AAMCO site. This material historically ties Clearwater Auto activities to the adjacent Ron's AAMCO property. As a result, this material must be delineated and evaluated for potential remediation as part of the Clearwater Auto site assessment. The delineation has been completed and remediation is the next step. On June 2, 2008 the CRA approved additional monies, in the form of a loan, in the amount not to exceed $350,000 to complete the remediation of the Clearwater Auto site and to address off-site environmental impacts (AAMCO site). It is anticipated that Jamson will have completed soil excavation and confirmation sampling by October 2008. Once completed, an Interim Source Removal Completion Report will be submitted to FDEP. Contractors will prepare final cleanup work at the site, which will include additional fill material, grading, fence repairs, seeding and debris removal. 17 ~ Station Square Parking Lot Redevelopment Project In order to spur catalytic redevelopment in the downtown core, the CRA made one of its prime real estate sites, the Station Square Parking Lot site, available for mixed-use redevelopment to include new urban housing and retail in the Downtown core. The CRA owned the 35,968+/- square-foot site, which was used as a public surface parking lot. The CRA issued a RFPQ in May 2003 for the redevelopment of the Station Square Parking Lot Site on Cleveland Street as a retaillresidential infill development. In July 2003, the CRA selected Beck, LLC as the developer for the project and authorized the negotiation of a Development Agreement. "".... :"1. ~. Sl/\TIDN SUllARE C D ~~ I] U N\ I N III :\\ S The Development Agreement was approved in February 2004. The project contains 126 residential condominiums, 12,000 square feet of restaurant/retail space and 326 parking spaces, of which 100 will be publie. The developer, once financing was obtained, paid fair market value for the Station Square Parking Lot property for $720,000 plus accrued interest at 4 percent. The Developer agreed to sell to the City 100 parking spaces, $12,500 per space for a total of $1,250,000. The CRA also agreed to pay for the developer's impact fees once the building is completed. The CRA allocated $460,000 from the City's portion of the TIF granted by the project to pay for the impact fees over a two-year period, one year after the project receives its Certificate of Completion. On May 2, 2005, the CRA agreed to amendments to the Development Agreement which: changed the name to properly reflect the new Owner/Developer; revised the square footage of retail required to 10,000 square feet; amended the number of parking spaces to 296; reflected the actual closing date of Aug. 25, 2004; requested an extension of time to commence construction; and requested an extension of 540 days after closing before the CRA can exercise its option to repurchase the site, if the Developer did not commence construction on time. The Development Agreement allowed the use of Station Square Park, a passive urban park to the west of the project, as a construction staging area. Construction commenced on Dee. 11,2006. A "Topping Off" Ceremony was held on Dee. 21,2007 with the project scheduled for completion in early 2009. ~ 18 IN\R/CGI Landscaping Fund According to the IMR/CGI Development Agreement, the CRA made a multi-year commitment to allocate the TIF generated from this project in a fund to pay for streets cape or landscaping improvements around the immediate site. The CRA made its final commitment in FY 02-03. It is anticipated that the CRA will approve the Cleveland Street Streetscape Phase II conceptual plan at their Nov. 3,2008 meeting. Once the plans are approved and bids received for the project, the $302,401 allocated from the IMR/CGI Development Agreement will be used to assist in the financing of Phase II of the Streets cape project. Downtown Clearwater Farmer's N\arket The Downtown Clearwater Farmer's Market celebrated their twelfth year in operation and their third year running in front of City Hall. The Market operates annually from November through April each Wednesday. The Market opens only one day a month during the summer and fall. The Farmer's Market has evolved into a green market t and holds several special events during the season. It. attracts weekly visitors to the area and creates a unique place to visit for downtown workers, city residents and F:\ R E H ' S :\ R K E T area tourists. This year, Main Street Program volunteers assisted the market with the Ice Cream Social, the Annual Super Soups Event and their 12th Anniversary celebration. The CRA allocated $6,000 to the Farmer's Market and the DDB allocated $15,000. eRA and DDB Intergovernmental Relationship The CRA, the DDB and City of Clearwater Economic Development and Housing Department staff works well together through an Interlocal Agreement, currently in its ninth year. The CRA and Administration Fee for this fiscal year is $57,480. 19 ~ Embracing the same mission and goals, the DDB and the CRA have provided for a process that strengthens communication, leading to many downtown development projects, infrastructure improvements, merchant retail promotion and a redevelopment plan that has enticed the private sector to invest. In a spirit of cooperation with the CRA, the DDB has invested in the future of downtown by providing funding for several research studies currently being implemented to create the framework for a destination downtown. The DDB supported the Boat Slip Referendum and agreed to a lO-year funding schedule in the amount of $50,000 per year for construction and maintenance of the boat slips. The referendum passed and once boat slips are constructed, the active, dynamic waterfront will become a destination for visitors cruising the Florida coastline and for locals out for a day of fun. The DDB revamped the Relocation and Expansion Grant and renamed it the Retail & Restaurant Recruitment Grant Program; funded the Streetscape Directory Kiosks and their inserts; and promoted the Merchant Parking Validation Program. The Downtown Computer Model, funded by the DDB in last year's budget, was highlighted on the City's website and Economic Development website pages and was provided to Water's Edge, Station Square Condominiums and the Strand at Clearwater Centre project managers for their websites. The DDB is active in supporting Clearwater's annual events in Coachman Park and at the Harborview Center. The Fun 'n Sun Festival, the Sea Blues Festival, the world renowned Clearwater Jazz Holiday Festival, the yearly Festival of Trees fundraiser for the Upper Pinellas County Association for Retarded Citizens, the Fourth of July Clearwater Celebrates America event in Coachman Park, and Main Street events such as the Spring Pet Fair and Cleveland Street Poetry Walk. These events are just a few of the many events celebrated and enjoyed by our residents and visitors from around the world. Main Street Program The Economic Development and Housing Department administers the City's Main Street Program through a full-time Main Street Coordinator and four standing committees: the Joint Venture Committee, the Promotion Committee, the Design Committee, and the Economic Development Committee. The Economic Development Director, as CRA Representative, chairs the Joint Venture Committee containing representatives from each of the Main Street committees, the DDB, and the CRA Board. ~20 In the fall of 2007, a reorganization of the Economic Development and Housing Department and the CRA took place to better serve the needs of a revitalizing downtown. As part of this process, a Downtown Manager was hired to spearhead the downtown efforts full-time. A decision was made to put the Main Street Design and Economic Development Committees on hold until after the Downtown Manager was hired. The Main Street Promotion Committee was active and coordinated the Third Annual Spring Pet Fair and the Cleveland Street Poetry Walk. For the fourth year in a row, the Clearwater Main Street Program has been recognized with awards from the State of Florida Main Street Program at the Main Street Annual Conference held in September 2008 in Venice, Florida. The awards received were: an Honor Award for the Cleveland Street Streetscape Project in the Outstanding Florida Main Street Public Improvement category and a Merit Award to Tony's Pizzeria and Ristorante in the Outstanding Florida Main Street Business of the Year Category. Committee members were involved in a host of activities during the year including revising the Downtown Clearwater Dining & Shopping Guide; coordinating the Fall and Spring Cleanups in conjunction with Keep Pinellas Beautiful; coordinating the holiday lighting of the buildings and landscaping and the holiday lighting ceremony; coordinating the 3rd Annual Spring Pet Fair and the Cleveland Street Poetry Walk. The Program Coordinator attended the Florida Main Street quarterly meetings, the Annual Conference and the ICSC Conference held in August 2008. The Main Street Program Coordinator alerted downtown merchants about marketing opportunities through the Clearwater City Employees Vendor Discount Program and Healthy Choices for a Healthy Clearwater Program, and assisted merchants with questions regarding revisions to the Sandwich Board Sign Ordinance. FaGade Improvement Grant The CRA continues to offer a Fa~ade/Storefront Improvement Grant to attract new businesses and to retain existing businesses outside of the Cleveland Street District and within the existing CRA boundaries. The Fa~ade Improvement Grant encourages aesthetic improvements and retention of character in the urban design district. The grant currently offers a maximum of $5,000 per building owner or tenant. The funding formula is a 50/50 split between the applicant and CRA. One property owner was approved and received a $5,000 grant this year. 21 '2 Clevelund Street N\ElintellullCC The CRA provided for the general maintenance of planters, bricks, street furniture, and updating the planter flowers twice a year. Parks and Beautification staff handled daily trash removal on the sidewalks. The DDB allocated $6,000 to pressure wash the sidewalks in July 2008. The CRA allocated $10,000 from its Cleveland Street Maintenance line item. Holiday Lighting The DDB is actively involved with Main Street activities and financially supports the Main Street Program. The official lighting ceremony is one of the festive events sponsored, in part, by the DDB in cooperation with the Main Street Program and the City of Clearwater. This year, with the near completion of the Cleveland Street streetscape, holiday lighting will be installed on the new landscaping along Cleveland Street and on building rooftops. A lighting ceremony is anticipated with elected officials in front of the historic Royalty Theatre. Attendees at this year's holiday tree lighting will, . enjoy live music from a jazz trio, refreshments and a free screening of a holiday movie classic. II 11 LI [Ji\ Y LlI; H TIN I ; ~ 22 CITY OF CLEARWATER FLORIDA communit rec eve 0 Jment (I( enc I GOVERNMENTAL BALANCE SHEET FORTHEYEARENOEO SEPTEMBER 30, 2008 General Assets: Cash on Hand and in Banks Other Receivables Land Held for Resale $ 749,622 47,089 1,914,050 $ 2,710,761 Liabilities: Accounts and Contracts Payable Due to Other Government Entities Advances from Other Funds Deferred Revenue $ 1,622 48,000 700,000 47,089 Total Liabilities 796,711 Fund Balances: Reserved for Land Held for Resale 1,914,050 Unreserved, Reported in Capital Projects Fund Total fund balances 1,914,050 Total Liabilities and Fund Balances $ 2,710,761 Capital Projects Total Governmental Funds $ 5,615,533 $ 6,365,155 47,089 1,914,050 $ 5,615,533 $ 8,326,294 $ 191,332 $ 192,954 48,000 700,000 47,089 988,043 191,332 5,424,201 5,424,201 1,914,050 5,424,201 7,338,251 $ 5,615,533 $ 8,326,294 23 ~ CITY OF CLEARWATER, FLORIDA Gommunit re( eve onment (l( enc' SCHEDULE OF REVENUES, EXPENDITURES AND CHANGES IN FUND BALANCE - BUDGETARY COMPARISON SCHEDULE - GENERAL FUND FORTHEYEAR ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2008 Budgeted Amounts GAAP Basis Variance with Actual Final Budget Original Final Amounts Positive (Negative) Revenues: Intergovernmental - Local S 1,216,808 $ 1,215,917 $ 1,215,917 $ Investment Earnings 100,000 100,000 33,718 (66,282 ) Miscellaneous 63,117 67,236 67,236 Total Revenues 1,379,925 1,383,153 1,316,871 (66,282 ) Expenditures: Current - Economic Environment 295,671 298,815 193,599 105,216 Excess of Revenues Over Expenditures 1,084,254 1,084,338 1,123,272 38,934 Other Financing Sources (uses): Transfers In 1,014,085 1,363,334 1,013,334 (350,000) Transfers Out (2,098,339) (2,447,672) (2,139,606) 308,066 Total Other Financing Sources (uses) ( 1,084,254) (1,084,338) (1,126,272) (41,934) Net Change in Fund Balances (3,000) (3,000) Fund Balance, Beginning of Year 1,917,050 1,917,050 1,917,050 Fund Balance, End of Year $ 1,917,050 $ 1,917,050 $ 1,917,050 $ (3,000) ~ 24 ~ Clearwater - '___/:"~. ~/~__~r,.~ ()~~~::::; Community Redevelopment Agency Board Frank Hibbard, Mayor George N. Cretekos, Vice-Mayor John Doran, Councilmember Paul F. Gibson, Councilmember Carlen A. Petersen, Councilmember Executive Director of the Community Redevelopment Agency and Assistant City Manager Rod Irwin Director of Economic Development & Housing Geraldine Campos Lopez