12/15/2008
CITY COUNCIL SPECIAL WORK SESSION MINUTES
Review of Vision Statement and Strategic Priorities
CITY OF CLEARWATER
December 15, 2008
Present: Frank Hibbard Mayor
George N. Cretekos Vice-Mayor
John Doran Councilmember
Carlen Petersen Councilmember
Paul Gibson Councilmember
Also present: William B. Horne City Manager
Jill Silverboard Assistant City Manager
Rod Irwin Assistant City Manager
Pamela K. Akin City Attorney
Cynthia E. Goudeau City Clerk
The Mayor called the meeting to order at 3:03 p.m.
The City Manager stated the purpose of this meeting is to assure the Mission Statement,
Vision Statement and Strategic Priorities, are still in alignment with Council philosophy. They
were last reviewed in 2005 with a final report issued in January 2006.
2 – Review of Mission and Vision Statements
The current Mission Statement reads: The Mission of the City of Clearwater is to provide
cost effective municipal services and infrastructure necessary for a high quality of life for all our
citizens.
The current Vision Statement reads: Sparkling Clearwater is a uniquely beautiful and
vibrant waterfront community that is socially and economically diverse, that reinvests in itself,
and is a wonderful place to live, learn, work and play.
Discussion ensued. It was noted that cost was not considered when the Vision
Statement was developed. It was also pointed out that the economic climate is dramatically
different now than in 2005. Concerns were expressed that while citizens have indicated their
desire to have parks, libraries and other quality of life facilities, they seem to lack an
understanding of the cost for these facilities. If was agreed that a balance needs to be found to
provide public safety and infrastructure without diminishing Clearwater’s quality of life to where it
is no longer a desirable place to be. The Vision Statement still reflects was is desired for the
City.
Consensus was to add “and affordable” to the Mission Statement and the Vision
Statement remain the same.
Council Special Work Session 2008-12-15 1
3. Review of Strategic Priorities
There are 13 unranked Strategic Priorities: 1) a safe clean green Environment, 2) safe
comfortable walkable neighborhoods, 3) well-maintained housing stock in all markets, 4) high
quality education, 5) economic vitality and reinvestment, 6) diverse high paying jobs, 7) a variety
of cultural and recreational offerings, 8) well-maintained infrastructure, 9) efficient responsive
services, 10) efficient transportation systems, 11) communication, 12) a quality beach
environment and 13) a vibrant downtown that is mindful of its heritage
Discussion ensued. It was noted the priorities are not ranked because they are all
intertwined. Cultural and recreational offerings will impact economic development as those
quality of life efforts attract businesses and residents. Concerns were expressed regarding how
effective the City can be in maintaining the housing stock. It was noted that no one predicted
the decline in the economy.
The City Manager pointed out the City’s budget had not grown more than 3% over the
last ten years. It stated the priorities guide the staff when evaluating new projects. Upcoming
budget decisions will be difficult and council direction is needed. Discussion continued with
concerns regarding not wanting to change the character of the City over the long term but
realizing cuts will have to be made.
Consensus was to make no changes to the Strategic Priorities and that they remain
unranked.
Tina Wilson, Budget Director, stated the property values and sales tax revenues will be
down and the upcoming budget year will be a difficult one. Concerns regarding staff morale
were expressed. In response to a question regarding whether the Council should hold a
meeting with employees to talk about the future, concerns were raised regarding the need for a
clear message and that the employee groups have divergent interest. Concerns were
expressed that many citizens believe the same level of service can be maintained or increased
even though resources are less.
The meeting adjourned at 5:08 p.m.
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