01/25/2011
PARKS & RECREATION BOARD MEETING MINUTES
CITY OF CLEARWATER
January 25, 2011
Present: Ray Shaw Chair
Jonathan R. Wade Vice-Chair – departed 7:40 p.m.
Allen Weatherilt Board Member – arrived 6:39 p.m.
Ron Whitcomb Board Member
Brooks Hammac Board Member
Jason Happe Board Member
Absent: Candace Gardner Board Member
Also Present: Kevin Dunbar Parks & Recreation Dir - departed 8:00 p.m.
Patricia O. Sullivan Board Reporter
The Chair called the meeting to order at 6:33 p.m. at the Long Center.
To provide continuity for research, items are in agenda order although not
necessarily discussed in that order.
2 – Approval of Minutes
– October 26, 2010
Member Wade moved to approve the minutes of the regular Parks & Recreation Board
meeting of October 26, 2010, as recorded and submitted in written summation to each board
member. The motion was duly seconded and carried unanimously.
3 – Unfinished Business
3.1. Capital Projects Update
Parks & Recreation Director Kevin Dunbar reviewed updates to the capital projects list
related to Joe DiMaggio Field restrooms, new field lighting, the Clearwater Harbor Marina public
art component, Morningside tennis courts, trails, and CFY (Clearwater for Youth) efforts. He also
discussed beach concession leases, lifeguard buildings and stations, and Rockaway Beach and
beach access improvements. An ultraviolet system has been installed at the Long Center pool;
the lightning protection system will be installed soon. The City and Pinellas County Schools are
reviewing facility use costs.
In response to questions, Mr. Dunbar said the City is working with FDEP (Florida
Department of Environmental Protection) regarding pollution at Phillip Jones Park. He will check
on installing a water fountain near the Morningside tennis courts.
3.2. Quarterly Meeting Schedule
Parks & Recreation Board meetings are on Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m. at the Long Center.
2011 meetings dates are: January 25, April 26, July 26, and October 25.
Member Happe reported he is moving to South Carolina; his last meeting will be in April.
4 – New Business
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4.1. Enterprise Dog Park LWCF grant
Mr. Dunbar reviewed plans for a boardwalk at the Enterprise Dog Park. The park is
hugely successful, with average stays of almost an hour. The boardwalk will provide an
opportunity to expand the park by creating more walk space. The City is applying to LWCF
(Land & Water Conservation Fund) and the Petsmart Foundation for funding. The boardwalk,
estimated to cost $325,000, will be constructed of composite wood, which requires no
maintenance. A fence will protect the stand of cypress.
Concern was expressed that non residents use the park and sometimes parking is not
sufficient. Mr. Dunbar said the parking lot cannot be expanded, but noted that parking is
available at the nearby trail. Discussion ensued regarding ways to collect funds for the park.
Mr. Dunbar said staff is looking to create a volunteer group to empty trash. He said the park
provides the purest form of social recreation in the City.
Consensus was to support construction of a boardwalk to expand the park, apply for a
LWCF grant, and partner with Petsmart Foundation.
Items not on the Agenda
FRDAP (Florida Recreation Development Assistance Program) grant
Mr. Dunbar said the City’s grant application for the McMullen Tennis Complex had
received the top score. He expressed concern that the program may not be funded and
suggested that board members may want to contact the County’s legislative delegation
regarding the importance of this program.
Member Wade moved for staff to draft a letter to legislative delegates in support of the
FRDAP grant for signature by the Chair. The motion was duly seconded and carried
unanimously.
Member Wade moved to request City Council support the FRDAP grant by contacting its
legislative delegates and lobbyist. The motion was duly seconded and carried unanimously.
Mr. Dunbar reviewed plans to double the number of courts at the McMullen Tennis
Complex.
Ruppel Property
Mr. Dunbar said staff is working with the Trust for Public Land for funding to purchase
the Ruppel property on Union Street to expand Lake Chautauqua Park. The property’s value
has declined since discussions with the owner began.
Budget Reductions
Mr. Dunbar said a 6% reduction in the FY (Fiscal Year) 2011/12 Parks & Recreation
budget would result in the loss of an additional $930,000. He discussed results of past
reductions and plans to address the budget shortfall, including further cuts to staff, operational
th
savings, and the need to seek corporate sponsorship for 4 of July celebration costs, for
example. He said recreation centers would have to be closed if another round of budget cuts
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occurs. Some residents complain these cuts, related to passage of Amendment One, have
resulted in unacceptable service levels, such as reducing lighted tennis courts. Mr. Dunbar
noted that City property taxes cost less than most residents' cell phones.
Concern was expressed that it has gotten too expensive for Clearwater to support the
recreation needs of non residents, who should pay to play.
In response to questions, Mr. Dunbar said maintenance for the Ruppel property would
be contracted. The cities of Pinellas Park and Oldsmar have equestrian facilities. He said
parks provide residents with a quality of life even though they may not provide the highest and
best use of a property.
Councilmember Doran discussed the need to purchase green space while costs are low
and land remains available. He said equestrian operations would be contracted. He said the
Council reads all advisory board meeting minutes. He encouraged board members to address
the Council regarding all issues of concern. Concern was expressed that City libraries and the
park system have taken the brunt of budget cuts. Councilmember Doran said the Police
Department has been asked to budget for 6% cuts. Additional cuts are anticipated for EMS
(Emergency Medical Services). Fire Department efforts were applauded.
It was reported the young girl killed during the Tucson shootings was the granddaughter
of Dallas Green of the Phillies.
5 - Adjourn
The meeting adjourned at 8:15 p.m.
NEXT MEETING - April 26, 2011 at e L tenter
C air
Parks & Recreation Advisory Board
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