01/20/2010
ENVIRONMENTAL ADVISORY BOARD MEETING MINUTES
CITY OF CLEARWATER
January 20, 2010
Present: Anna Fusari Chair
D. Michael Flanery Board Member
Mary Morrow Board Member
Robert Peter Stasis Board Member
Michael Engelmann Board Member
Also Present: Leslie Dougall-Sides Assistant City Attorney – departed 5:03 p.m.
Ed Chesney Environmental Manager
Patricia O. Sullivan Board Reporter
The Chair called the meeting to order at 4:00 p.m. at the Municipal Services Building.
To provide continuity for research, items are in agenda order although not
necessarily discussed in that order.
ADMINISTRATION
1 - Approval of Minutes
– October 21, 2009
Member Stasis moved to approve the minutes of the regular meeting of October 21,
2009, as submitted in written summation to each board member. The motion was duly
seconded and carried unanimously.
2 – Citizen Comments
: None.
ACTION ITEMS
3 – Welcome new EAB members
4 – Follow-up on research of Local Government Sustainability Efforts
It was reported that Dunedin’s sustainability coordinator position, funded by the recycling
program, has no power to make changes, only to bring people together and make suggestions.
It was stated that Clearwater’s “Green Team” is effective; members are knowledgeable about
specific department activities and function as well-versed sustainability coordinators. It was
noted that Pinellas County’s Engineering Department does a life-cycle analysis for purchases.
Consensus was that the City’s “Green Team” handles the duties contemplated for a
sustainability coordinator.
DISCUSSION ITEMS
Environmental Advisory 2010-01-20 1
5 - Education Campaign Topics for 2010
(Sunshine Utility Stuffers, C-View Public Service Announcement, St. Pete Times)
Environmental Manager Ed Chesney said Public Communications has requested PSA
(Public Service Announcement) ideas. Board suggestions included recycling, proper disposal of
electronics, medications, and lawn clippings, new county fertilizer restrictions, bicycle paths,
reclaimed water, parks such as Kapok Park, and information on the City’s green web sites.
ITEMS NOT ON THE AGENDA:
Sand Dunes Protection
Mr. Chesney said Steve West is the State’s only compliance officer for beach restoration
on Florida’s gulf coast. While reported actions that destroyed north beach dunes are illegal, Mr.
West has a difficult time determining how the dunes were affected. The State does little follow-
up on its warning letters. Mr. West said more problems with dune destruction occur on
Clearwater beach than anywhere else along the gulf. Sarasota, Indian Rocks, and St. Pete
Beach have ordinances that address dune protection.
Mr. Chesney said Environmental Technician Brett Gardner mostly responds to
stormwater and watering issues; he is working with a contractor and the State to resolve
damages from a dewatering project that eroded some dunes. Staff can stop destructive
activities they witness but cannot enforce or approve dune restoration. Most infractions occur at
night or on weekends. Assistant City Attorney Leslie Dougall-Sides said Pinellas County is not
delegated by the State to protect sea oats.
It was suggested that attracting media attention to north beach dune problems could be
a catalyst to protecting the dunes. Concern was expressed regarding the outcome if the media
focuses on north beach residents who are damaging sand dunes without permits and risking the
lives and property of nearby residents. It was stated that CBA (Clearwater Beach Association)
members had come to the EAB (Environmental Advisory Board) for relief.
Member Stasis reviewed his research. Sarasota County has a successful
comprehensive ordinance and full authority, as delegated by the State, to manage its natural
resources seaward of the CCCL (Coastal Construction Control Line). The county can charge
offenders with misdemeanors and impose penalties of up to $250/day.
It was recommended that the EAB approach the City Council as State oversight is
insufficient to safeguard City sand dunes and sea oats, which protect the environment and
beach homes from storms. It was stated that the County could coordinate efforts to protect the
dunes. Discussion ensued regarding funding sources. As sand dunes help stop flooding and
act as a filtration system for the harbor, it was suggested that stormwater funds could be used to
protect the City’s dunes.
It was recommended that the City review Sarasota’s ordinance to determine if it could be
adopted by Clearwater or if the County would need to oversee its implementation. It was
suggested that the board respond to the CBA’s (Clearwater Beach Association) visit and share
board research. Consensus was for the Chair to write the letter to the CBA.
Environmental Advisory 2010-01-20 2
INFORMATION ITEMS
6 - Establish Agenda
Revisit sand dune protection and enforcement.
7 - Date of next meeting - April 21, 2010
8 - Adjourn
The meeting adjourned at 5:55 p.m.
Board Reporter
Environmental Advisory 2010-01-20
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Chair
Environmental Advisory Board
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