COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY ANNUAL REPORT FY 2010-2011 community a enc
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CITY OF CLEARWATER
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fir- , • �: ^0
go" lit Annual Report
Fy 2010-2011 Prepared for:
Pinellas County Board of Commissioners
March 2012 ..
oPrepared by: V earwater
CRA Staff/Economic Development&Housing Department
Visioning Ths Fut r
Annual Rep orgy
FY 2010 -2011
Clearwater
COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY ANNUAL REPORT FY2010-2011
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 10-11
and includes the year's financial statements.
In FY 10-11,the CRA concentrated on the construction of the Cleveland
Street Streetscape Phase II project,the purchase of strategic parcels of land for
redevelopment,the development of a vision plan for the East Gateway District,the
overview of the CRA Redevelopment Progress Analysis Report and the ongoing
marketing strategy for the Cleveland Street District.
The CRA worked closely with developers,the DDB,property owners,the
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 10-11 was $2,770,400.
B. New Activity
Ruth Eckerd Hall, Inc. Memorandum of Agreement
On Nov. 29, 2010,the CRA approved a Memorandum of Agreement with Ruth
Eckerd Hall,Inc. for the provision of an expanded and enhanced schedule of
programming at the Capitol Theatre in the Cleveland Street District until facility
renovations begin.
The CRA's objectives are to support existing retail business vitality in a period
of economic downturn by creating larger crowds to create dining and retail
demand for businesses in the District,provide retail recruitment efforts with a
better customer base to encourage new retailers/restaurateurs with the confidence
v),
COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY ANNUAL REPORT FY2010-2011
to locate in the District during the economic downturn, and expose additional
potential restaurant/retail customers and investors to the District through
attendance at District events.
Ruth Eckerd Hall objectives are to increase exposure, customer base and interest
in the facility as they approach the requisite fundraising campaign for capital
and endowment funds to support future operations at the renovated facility.
Additionally, development of a strong customer base during the pre-renovation
period will help attendance at the renovated facility.
Ruth Eckerd Hall proposed an increase of performances from 36 performances
annually to 100 performances annually,with 52 of them live, self-presented events
and the remaining 48 performances either films or third party rentals.
The CRA allocated$148,000 for fiscal years 2010-2011, 2011-2012 and 2012-
2013, or until renovations commence,whichever comes first and$5,000 in
one-time funds for projection equipment necessary for film showings from its
Redevelopment line item.
In order to maintain sufficient Redevelopment Fund balances over the next several
years, and to cushion the fund balances against any further drop in tax receipts
during that period,the current CRA funding commitment of$1,000,000 for
the Capitol Theatre renovations was restructured to reduce$148,000 from the
commitment in each year that the temporary funding is utilized and the balance
rolled forward. This would continue until the entire$1,000,000 is contributed to
the renovation project. Payment would likely be completed in three fiscal years
rather than two fiscal years.
Proceeds from the Sale of Voluntary Clean-Up Tax Credits by the City of
Clearwater for the Clearwater Automotive Property
On May 5,2011, the City of Clearwater entered into a tax service agency agreement
with Clocktower Tax Credits, LLC to manage the sale and transfer of ownership
of Voluntary Clean-Up Tax Credits (VCTC). The Florida Department of
Environmental Protection (FDEP) issued the tax credit awards based on approved
FDEP costs incurred for environmental remediation work at the Clearwater
Automotive property,located at 205 South Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue. The
VCTCs are in the form of four certificates received in fiscal years 2007, 2008, 2009
and 2011 for a cumulative total of$516,943.70. The original intent for the use of
the VCTCs was to incentivize a redevelopment project on the property. Due to the
economic downturn, a project has yet to come to fruition.
COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY ANNU1 'ORT FY2O10-•mi
The VCTCs had a one-time, transferable limitation and could be sold or allocated to
outside investors subject to certain conditions. The City had a five-year time frame,
from the issue date on the original certificate, to transfer the certificates to an entity
that had a Florida corporate income tax liability. When the transfer occurred,the
five year clock restarted and the transferee received a certificate with a new issue
date. The transferee will have five years from the date of issue to use the certificate.
The certificate is not eligible to be sold once the new certificate was issued.
Transferable tax credits were priced with a cents-per-dollar of credit purchase price.
The price paid was $0.85 per dollar of each credit. The sale of the City's certificates
yielded$439,402.55. Clocktower Tax Credits,LLC referral fee was capped at$0.05
for each dollar of credit purchased by its client, or$25,847.21. After the referral fee
was paid,the City received$0.80 per dollar for each credit totaling$413,355.96. On
May 31, 2011,the City agreed to transfer the$413,355.96 to the CRA to deposit in
its Downtown Redevelopment line item. The money transferred could be used to
repay the loan for the remediation of the property.
CRA Redevelopment Progress Analysis Update (2004-2011)
On Aug. 15, 2011, staff presented a review of the CRA redevelopment program
strategy and program and financial performance. The CRA Board members
requested a review of the Downtown, Retail/Restaurant Strategy and East Gateway
progress to assist in clarifying exactly where the CRA was on redevelopment efforts
and provide the Board with an opportunity to redirect policy and/or strategy if
desired.
The results of the review indicated that there had been significant and quantifiable
project and program accomplishments in the Downtown CRA and the Retail/
Restaurant Strategy as follows:
• The Retail/Restaurant strategy developed with ERA had been successful in
attracting the"niche" destination and established restaurants that can anchor
further expansion and be sustainable during a difficult recessionary period;
• From a taxable value standpoint, the increase in the Downtown CRA totaled
35.5% since 2004, compared to a 2.0% increase Citywide. Taxable value
increased by$63,357,917 in the Downtown CRA during the period;
COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY ANNUAL REPORT FY2010-2011
• With respect to ratio of private-to-public investment,the Downtown CRA has
realized a healthy$5.1 to 1 ratio;
• With respect to retail/restaurant grants,the ratio of private-to-public investment
realized a healthy$6.2 to 1,with the Downtown CRA receiving$2,036,246 in
private investment for a public commitment of$330,077;
• The East Gateway CRA showed a loss of taxable value (7%) consistent with
the early stage of the CRA intervention (2007),and a modest private-to-public
investment ratio of$1.83 to 1. The results indicate both a movement in the right
direction with respect to leveraging private investment, and, at the same time,
clearly indicating the"downside" risk and inevitable result of failure to engage
in redevelopment areas in a sustained, robust manner. Continued attention and
funding will be necessary to assure program and financial results.
C. Multi-year Projects LI Commitments
Purchase of Real Property- 1274 Cleveland Street [Economy Inn Motel]
and Surrounding Parcels
On Sept. 7, 2010,the CRA approved the purchase of real property comprising the
bulk of the East Gateway block bounded by Cleveland Street,North Betty Lane,
Grove Street and North Lincoln Avenue. The parcels include the Economy Inn Motel;
former Royal Palm Motel;Viva Mexico restaurant;two duplexes; and one owner-
occupied single family residence for a total of 2.2 acres. Prior to the purchase of the
property, Phase I and Phase II Environmental Site Assessments were completed.
The properties had become a major,
continuing source of blight and
magnet for inappropriate activity. The
magnitude of the issues far exceeded _ r
other properties in the East Gateway `:fi .- ', •1
area. Police records indicated that calls r'A
for service/complaints to the Economy -
Inn Motel alone during the last twelve p "
months of the reporting period totaled
421,more than one call per day.
qfy
NCY ANNUAL REPORT FY2010-2011
On April 28,2011,a ceremony took
place on site to celebrate the start of
demolition. Once demolition was Ny 1
completed, the site was sodded and (4/11-
fenced. After the creation of an East
Gateway Vision Plan and once the
economy improves, the property will be Yti � '' 01.
promoted for redevelopment - -a '"' f >
The CRA established the Economy Inn/
MNEK line item to accept a$1,900,000
loan from the City's Central Insurance Economy Inn Demolition
Fund to cover the acquisition, closing
costs and demolition/stabilization of the
site. The loan is interest only for FY 2011 and FY 2012; and principal and interest
through FY 2018. If the property is sold prior to the loan being satisfied,the sale
proceeds will go to pay off the loan.
Environmental Remediation of the CarPro Site - 1359 Cleveland Street
In December 2009, the CRA identified the CarPro Site as a candidate for
participation in the City's Brownfields Program given the site's environmental
issues,the non-conforming land use, the potential future redevelopment, and the
availability of funding for environmental remediation.
At least four different phases of environmental site assessments were conducted
prior to May 2007. The investigations identified adverse environmental conditions
within the property boundaries of the site and two adjacent properties to the west.
Given the location and redevelopment opportunities for the site,the CRA
purchased the property on Aug. 5, 2010. Demolition of CarPro was completed
in September 2010. Assessment of the site continued with the placement of
monitoring wells to delineate the extent of the groundwater contamination. The
assessment portion of the estimate, up to $190,000, will be covered by the 2009
American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) assessment funds and existing
Brownfields grants.
On Oct. 13,2010,a draft Brownfields Site Rehabilitation Agreement (BSRA) and a
COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY ANNUAL REPORT FY2010-2011
summary of environmental findings and recommendations were presented to the
Brownfields Advisory Board. The draft was also submitted to the FDEP for review
and was accepted.
On Aug. 29,2011,the CRA entered into an Interlocal Agreement with the City that
outlined the responsibilities for the environmental cleanup of the site. The cleanup
is currently estimated to cost$325,440,confirmed by an engineer's estimate. The
remediation portion of the estimate will be funded through the Brownfields
Cleanup Revolving Loan Fund (BCRLF). The BCRLF was structured to provide
low-interest loans to parties interested in the redevelopment of environmentally
impaired properties.
The BCRLF allows government
entities to loan to other
government agencies and also r
allows the City to discount up to .11141k
30% of the principal amount of
the loan,provided that the total
amount of the principal forgiven
does not exceed$200,000. `�'' '•
The agreement allows the City, `
through its Brownfields program
or other sources,or the CRA ..
to cover any additional costs of
remediation or preparation of
the site for redevelopment. The
funds will have a zero interest rate and will be repaid either from amounts repaid
to the City or the CRA from a private developer or other party the CRA conveys
the site to,TIF funds,the General Fund of the City through budget appropriations
or other legal means approved by the EPA. The repayment term is five years from
the completion of the environmental cleanup of the site as indicated by a Site
Rehabilitation Completion Order (SRCO).
The CRA established the CarPro Site line item to accept$325,000 from the
Redevelopment line item already established to cover the property purchase,closing
costs and demolition of the site. The CRA also accepted a$325,440 loan from the
City's BCRLF to cover remediation costs.
' e • ENT AGENCY ANNUAL REPORT FY2010-2011
East Gateway District Five-Year Action Program
On May 13,2008, the C
approved the East Gateway Five-Year Action Program.
The Action Program was created to engage the comm
achieve Action neighborhood Pr m stability;was created gam
reinvestment in ivate The community in its implementation;
establish a unique and positive identity;
safety and securit • b property. action items focus on five central themes:
tract
y, business environment;neighborhood a
growth and housing;and Hispanic community integration.
Pearance;economic
gratio
The Action Program calls for periodic monitoring and
ensure that the neighborhood vision is continually strived for
assets are protected and enhanced. Staffpresented evaluation of progress to
taffpresented the first annual progress rre neighborhood
in April 2009. On Aug. 15,2011, staff
Progress Report. The report included accomplishments Gateway P t
is over the last fiscal r
and is available at wwt,�,myclearwater.com/eastgatewa .
y years
The following reflects the accomplishments:
• Engaged consultants for the development
coordinated and conducted three focus grow p a neighborhood vision plan,
community workshops; meetings and two charrette/
• Finalized plans/drawings for the Gulf to Bay Boulevar d and Highland Avenue
Intersection Improvements Project and awarded construction
• Completed construction of two façade projects, contract;
additional facade project, and continued coordi coordination ed loan closing for one
approvals with other interested ro
perty for project develo Pment
P owners;
• Completed the De Leon Street sidewalk project, identified
projects for FY 11-12 and coordinated with the Florida De
Transportation for the FY 12-13 Drew three new sidewalk
ew Street resurfacing Department of
g and sidewalk project;
• Provided a more visible community
policing presence within the East Gateway
neighborhood that has improved safety and sense of security;
• Organized the East Gateway Hispanic Festival with an estimated 800 attendees
at Glen Oaks Park;
• Coordinated meetings of the East Gateway Stakeholder
and participated in the East Gateway Business &Nei Advisor y Group (SAG)
h
g bors Association (BNA)
meetings that have provided greater opportunities for community engagement
and grassroots problem solving;
• Coordinated with Code Compliance for a code sweep of the eastern portion of
the East Gateway District on April 2011;
• Provided quarterly briefings to staff in the Planning department and members
of the Building Plans Review Committee (BPRC);
• Conducted regular business visits to offer timely advocacy and other assistance
for business expansion and assistance;
• Partnered with several Hispanic organizations and the Clearwater Regional
Chamber of Commerce to connect non-Hispanic businesses and consumers
with the Hispanic market.
East Gateway District Vision Plan
In June 2009, the SAG,the Steering Committee for the East Gateway Five-Year
Action Program, suggested that the CRA engage the community in redefining a
vision for future development and community character in the District.
In January 2010,the CRA agreed
to the proposal as a multi- CAM i` �r` -,
'1
phase project to include vision �+''
development and implementation r' Y
based on vision plan outcomes as -0 ,. rh,.04
an optional subsequent phase. , '
On March 8, 2011,the CRA t
sought proposals from qualified X14
firms to develop a comprehensive
P _
and collaborative neighborhood East Gatway District Vision Plan
vision plan that addressed three
main areas. The first area was
a neighborhood market/economic analysis that defined the economic base for
market-supportable revitalization efforts; the second area was community outreach
and stakeholder involvement culminating in a Community Design Charette that
provided a strong, clear vision of the area and responded to current and future
market opportunities; and lastly, a concept plan and policy framework that
identified specific implementation actions and tools needed to achieve the vision
over a 20-year horizon.
if 8
COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY ANNUAL REPORT FY2O10-2011
On April 15,2011,the Evaluation/Selection Committee met and narrowed down the
choices to the top five firms for oral presentations. Oral presentations took place on
April 25,2011 and April 28, 2011. On May 3,2011, Gensler of Tampa, Florida,with
Social Compact as the Market Consultant,was selected as the
top-ranked firm.
On June 6, 2011, a kick-off meeting was held with the consultant and a data exchange
process was initiated including a tour of the East Gateway area. The Vision Plan
Steering Committee was formed to serve as the conduit to the planning team and the
greater community that they represent to channel information and set for integration.
The Steering Committee included members of the BNA,the SAG, and prominent
businesses in the District. Three Focus Group meetings took place on Aug. 16,Aug.
17 and Aug. 30, 2011. Two charrette/community workshops were held on Sept. 21
and Sept. 22, 2011. The Plan is estimated to be completed by early 2012.
The CRA allocated$68,000 from its East Gateway line item.
East Gateway District Community Engagement
Community engagement and empowerment continues in the East Gateway District
with active input from various stakeholders. The SAG met regularly to provide
guidance on the Five-Year Action Program implementation. Its members also
participated in the Vision Plan Steering Committee.
Community input was sought out for the
selection of new sidewalk projects and
staff continued working with the Hispanic
Leadership Council,a committee whose
Ns u �� `.
main goals are community outreach and
the integration of the Hispanic immigrant
population.
The BNA met monthly to discuss
neighborhood concerns and updates.
Meeting attendance continued to be strong,
with BNA members quickly moving from
' s issue identification to problem-solving
mode. CRA staff, as well as staff from
Hislianic Festival the Police and Public Communications
departments, attended meetings and
provided updates.
'1 \,?
The CRA initiative to stabilize the District employs community events as
opportunities for community-building among area residents and businesses,
many of which are Hispanic. To this end,the CRA partnered with the Clearwater
Regional Chamber of Commerce and put together the East Gateway Hispanic
Festival. The event took place on May 22,2011 at Glen Oaks Park and attracted
approximately 800 people. It featured cultural entertainment,business and services
information for the community, food and beverages and free activities for children.
The CRA allocated$5,000 from its East Gateway Project line item.
East Gateway District Community Policing Interlocal Agreement
The CRA approved the East Gateway District Five-Year Action Program on May 13,
2008. The Action Program responded to public input on issues concerning drug
dealing,prostitution and street crime by including an action item for increased
police presence and crime reduction within the District.
An allowable funding source of this action item is the use of CRA Tax Increment
Financing(TIF) funds. Florida Statutes allows for this use of TIF funds for
"community policing innovations"in Community Redevelopment Areas.
The CRA and Clearwater Police Department reached an agreement on a proposed
scope of services and terms as delineated in the Interlocal Agreement. Included
in the scope are specific, measurable crime reduction targets by which to monitor
the success of the initiative as well as providing clear language required by statute
assuring that the resources are applied to the CRA/East Gateway. The term of the
agreement was from Oct. 1, 2010 through Sept. 30, 2011.
On May 16,2011,the CRA approved an amendment to the existing Interlocal
Agreement by modifying the goals and outcome measures. Rather than aiming to
increase activities by 25% each year,the revised goals state that 100% of all crimes
and violations will result in an arrest, citation or an FIR/Report being taken. Also, a
revision was made to allow greater flexibility in the two officers'work schedule due
to the new Anti-Crime Team working during the evening hours. The need for more
police presence during the daytime was more practical. There were no additional
costs associated with the revisions.
The CRA allocated$140,422.36 from its East Gateway Project line.
�'� 10
COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENC', NNUAL REPORT FY2010-207
East Gateway District Façade and Building Lot Improvement Program
In March 2009, the East Gateway District Facade &Building Lot Improvement
Program was approved. The program provides incentives for private reinvestment
within aging commercial corridors in the District.
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, 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 federal and City funds for neighborhood revitalization and
economic development by encouraging private investment in facade and building
lot improvements.
Project funding assistance of up to $35,000 is available to eligible commercial
property owners to help offset costs to include permits,building materials, and
construction services. A total of$180,000 in U.S. Department of Housing and
Urban Development (HUD) Community Development Block Grant - Recovery
(CDBG-R) funds has been allocated for project construction.
During this reporting period, three loans were closed and two projects located
at 1390 Gulf to Bay Blvd. and 1454 Gulf to Bay Blvd. were completed. Four new
applications were received and staff continued coordination for project development
approvals with other interested property owners.
a
q.
�l �` I F
IIR 13 r
1454 Gulf to Bay Blvd.Before 1454 Gulf to Bay Blvd. After
11 � �
Gulf to Bay Boulevard (State Road 60) and Highland Avenue Intersection
Improvements
The community continued to express concern about decreased traffic volumes and
business activity in the East Gateway associated with the rerouting of beach traffic
onto Court Street in conjunction with the opening of the new Memorial Causeway
Bridge. In an effort to create an inviting entryway to the District and address the lack
of pedestrian walkways in this intersection, an attention grabbing entryway feature
at the intersection of Gulf to Bay Boulevard, Highland Avenue and Court Street was
proposed. The feature will cue motorists,pedestrians and cyclists that something
special lays ahead. The intersection improvements will maximize views and vistas
into the District from Gulf to Bay Boulevard, reinforce community identity, and
increase safety at this large-scale,five-legged intersection.
The conceptual plans were presented and supported by both the BNA and the SAG
with the City's Engineering Department developing and finalizing the construction
documents.
t
� L L
Gulf To Bay ft Highland Intersection Improvement
On June 30,2011,the project was advertised with two contractors submitting bids.
On Sept. 1,2011,the City Council awarded Gibbs and Register, Inc. of Winter
Garden, Florida the project with a bid of$340,265.20. The proposed mast arm
signals for the intersection will be installed by a signalization contractor under a
separate contract of$261,967 through the City's Traffic Operations.
The source of funds for this project is Penny for Pinellas II.
\4'? 12
COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY ANNUAL REPORT FY2010-2011
Country Club Townhomes
To increase the supply of owner-occupied,workforce-housing units in the East
Gateway District,the City provided a$700,000 loan, utilizing CDBG funds, for the
purchase of the property to construct a 31-unit townhouse project located at Drew
Street and North Betty Lane.
The loan has a three-percent interest
rate on the outstanding principal
balance with deferred payment of
-
principal and interest for five years. _
Economic Development and Housing = ,
staff recommended a mortgage ----
modification to extend the timeframes
for an additional five years. The
City Council approved the loan =
modification on Nov 17,2009. This
extension allowed the Developer time
to complete the site plan approval Country Club Townhomes
process.
On July 20, 2010, the Community Development Board (CDB) approved the site
plan with eleven conditions. After discussions took place with Progress Energy to
satisfy a condition of the approval,the burying of overhead lines, it was determined
by Progress Energy to be impractical to accomplish. The Developer appeared before
the CDB on Nov 16, 2010 and was granted permission to delete this condition of the
approved site plan.
On July 22, 2011, a construction loan of$1,500,000 was approved by the HUD
Neighborhood Stabilization Program 2 (NSP2) consortium. In August 2011,the site
plan was approved,foundation permits were issued and construction commenced.
The project is expected to be completed in late 2012.
Cleveland Street Streetscape - Phase II
Phase II of the Cleveland Street Streetscape project is the next phase of the streetscape
program developed by Bellomo-Herbert and Company in August 2002. With the
development of The Strand at Clearwater Centre and the availability of the Prospect
Lake Redevelopment Site, Phase II is a critical infrastructure project that will
continue to encourage and facilitate the City and CRA's redevelopment goals.
13 \!I
COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY ANNUAL REPORT FY2010-2011
The construction drawings for Phase II continue the look and feel of the first phase
of the Cleveland Street Streetscape project,but with a less intense, and therefore
less expensive,treatment. The project features include earthwork,grading,paving,
underground utilities,lighting, site furnishings, mast arms, and public art.
The CRA approved the conceptual plan at their Nov 3,2008 meeting. Certified
letters were sent to property owners and tenants discussing the project and inviting
them to one of two public meetings that were held on May 13 and May 21, 2010.
The City Council approved the final conceptual design on May 17, 2010. The
construction documents were finalized in September 2010 with the Engineering
Department releasing the documents for bid in October 2010.
On Nov. 29, 2010, MTM Contractors of
Pinellas Park, Florida were awarded the
contract bidding$2,940,906.83,which 9+ !
was the lowest responsible bid received in
accordance with the plans and specifications. s
Construction commenced in January 2011 "
and is to be completed in two phases over _:.. �' • ,i+
a twelve month span. The first phase,
from Missouri Avenue westward through
the intersection of Martin Luther King Jr.
Avenue is completed. Phase two is in the
construction process and is from the west
side of Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue to
Myrtle Avenue. Cleveland Street Streetscape Phase II
The CRA allocated$1,799,927.37 from its
Cleveland Street Phase II Construction line item.
Downtown Boat Slips
On March 13, 2007, Clearwater residents approved,by referendum,the Downtown
Boat Slips project. The project consists of 126 boat slips, docks,a boardwalk,
a promenade and related facilities located on the downtown waterfront near
Coachman Park.
A RFP was released on Dec. 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.
\of
14
COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY ANNUAL REPORT FY2010-2011
The CRA established the Downtown
Boat Slips line item to accept a
$1,500,000 loan from the City's Central ' `"" _ '. rill
._
Insurance Fund to cover the capital ,,. .�V_—
aleV,•
expenses necessary for construction ' ' "•' x .
and maintenance. The loan was paid -�. I •
back over a three year period. The -' •
DDB also committed $500,000, $50,000 > �
a year over a ten year period, from its e, . r
Downtown Boat Slips line item. ; rid -41NZ
''
The project was completed in August
2010 with a Grand Opening celebration Downtown Boat Slips
taking place on Sept. 2, 2010.
Cleveland Street and Prospect Lake Park Site (Brownfields)
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 City completed the environmental remediation of the property in August 2004.
On Sept. 6, 2006, the City received a Comfort Letter from FDEP and on Dec. 18,
2009 the City received a Site Rehabilitation Completion Order (SRCO),without
conditions.
It is the intention of the CRA to release a RFP to interested developers once the
economic climate improves.
The Strand at Clearwater Centre, LLC 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 streetscape and landscape improvements in a total amount not
to exceed the lesser of$500,000, or the amount of funds remaining in the project
15 ‘,?
account after payment of the impact fees and utility relocation. The total payments
by the CRA shall not exceed$1,040,000.
On May 15, 2007,the CRA approved an assignment of the Development Agreement
from the original Developer, Clearwater Centre, LLC to Clearwater Espacio
Development, LLC.
In early 2010, the General Contractor left the project. A new General Contractor
was hired in September 2010. The CRA approved an extension of the required
completion date to Oct. 31, 2012 and a change in the form of the Security for
Developer's Performance from a Performance Mortgage to a Letter of Credit.
In Sept. 2011,the owners placed the project in a"slow-down" mode due to the
saturation of condominiums in the area. The owners anticipate they will resume
normal scheduling in 2012.
Cleveland Street District and Marketing Website
In early 2010,the CRA released a RFP for development of a Cleveland Street
District arts and entertainment website to support the overall strategy for
downtown revitalization and bolster the Downtown's image as a destination.
The CRA retained Blenderbox,Inc. of Brooklyn,
New York to design an informative, easy-
to-navigate site, copyright and train staff in
�..�.....,��. maintaining the website that was successfully
LEVELAND
s r r r e t evens dimme aMpyiry Fume ncu-.
launched April 2011.
r;; The website marketing strategy focused on
District Living at its Finest! „
announcing the new web address to local and
'" r- regional markets through multiple media sources
Wdcoma to Clearwater Flortdi a NEW Downtown-the Cleveland Street District,
and tourism partners.
m,.w �mrro ern
The tracking/analytics feature of the site allow for
°Cleveland Street ,,w.rwr, , . continuous monitoring and adjustment to further
promote the site Analytics tracked that between
„� April 2011 and September 2011, the site received
nearly 9,000 visitors, 36,000 page views and each
visitor spent more than two minutes on the site.
Video Gallery
The Cleveland Street District Website,
Cleveland Street District Websile www•ClevelandStreetDistrict.com, received the
1‘1141,11 16
ICOMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY ANNUAL REPORT FY2010-2011
Outstanding Achievement Award in the Government category from New York's
Interactive Media Awards (IMA).The Outstanding Achievement award is the
second highest honor bestowed by the IMA. The website won for excelling in all
areas of the organization's judging criteria and for representing a very high standard
of planning, execution and overall professionalism. The website was one of 105
entries in the category.
Blenderbox was recognized by The Web Marketing Association for Outstanding
Achievement in Web Development, Best Regional Website for its design of
the Cleveland Street District website.The Web Marketing Association's annual
WebAward Competition has been setting the standard of excellence for website
development since 1997. Independent expert judges from around the world review
sites in 96 industries. The WebAward Competition is the premier award recognition
program for web developers and marketers worldwide.
The CRA allocated$100,000 from its Retail Attraction/Assistance line item.
Clearwater Downtown Events, Inc. Memorandum of Understanding and
Interlocal Agreement
On July 13,2010,the CRA approved a Memorandum of Agreement with Clearwater
Downtown Events,Inc. for the provision of an expanded and enhanced schedule of
Blast Friday events in the Cleveland Street District.
The CRA's objectives are to support existing businesses in a period of economic
downturn by drawing larger crowds to the District; provide a better customer base
to encourage new retailers and restaurants to locate into the District;and"expose"
potential investors to the District through events.
The Blast Friday Volunteer Group created a not-for-profit organization,Downtown
Events, Inc.,to receive/manage funds and administer the program.The $75,000
seed money is to partially fund the $250,000 Business Plan. It is anticipated that the
seed money will only be needed during the first one or two years of the process.
The CRA allocated$75,000 from its Redevelopment line item. The DDB allocated
$50,000 from their Blast Friday line item and the remaining$125,000 came from
private fund raising efforts.
On Aug. 29, 2011,the CRA and Clearwater Downtown Events,Inc. entered into a
Grant Funding Agreement for the provision of a revised and enhanced schedule of
17 \I;
COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY ANNUAL REPORT FY2010-2011
Blast Friday events in the Cleveland Street District.
Clearwater Downtown Events, Inc.proposed a
business concept to restructure and enhance their
• program operations, including a management and
production agreement with Ruth Eckerd Hall,
It 't
1 1 - _G.. with a financing plan based upon, in part, a CRA
,
4 --. t grant of$75,000 and a Downtown Development
4, * " ' . Board grant of$50,000. The remainder of the
S A t. costs would be through sponsorships and/or Ruth•t ' Hall Eckerd Ha participation. The intent is to leverage
1•.
•
the production and marketing expertise and
capacity of Ruth Eckerd Hall to materially enhance
the quality and attendance at events.
The CRA allocated$75,000 from its
BI,isl Friday Redevelopment line item. The DDB allocated
$50,000 from their Blast Friday line item to
partially fund the $181,878 budget.
Cleveland Street District Facade Improvement Program
On Sept.4,2007,the CRA approved the Cleveland Street District Façade Improvement
Program. The program provides architectural design assistance,to be provided by
the CRA and funded by the DDB via contracts with local architects and two financial
incentives. The financial incentives are a$10,000 matching grant and a$25,000 zero
interest loan.
No property owners took advantage of the grant during this fiscal year. As new business
owners relocate to downtown,staff informs them of the program and meetings are held
with those who express an interest.
Sidewalk Café Furniture Grant Program
On Jan. 14, 2008, the CRA approved the Sidewalk Café Furniture Grant Program.
The grant provides financial assistance to eligible applicants seeking to furnish an
approved sidewalk café 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 program is funded by the DDB and administered by the
CRA. During this reporting period Chiang Mai Thai and Sushi Bar,located at 415
Cleveland Street, received a$1,269.33 grant.
18
COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY ANNUAL REPORT FY2010-2011
Retail Recruitment and Marketing Services
The Retail Strategy and Implementation Program was adopted by the CRA in 2008.
The program guides CRA staff in recruiting unique,destination retail and restaurants. The
program's philosophy is to provide a unique merchandise/dining mix,with one-of-a-kind
retailers and restaurants. The approach to accomplishing this is through a dedicated retail
recruiter whose primary responsibility is generating retail/restaurant prospects.
The Downtown Manager,acting as the retail/restaurant recruiter,has been actively
recruiting since adoption of the program. Hundreds of establishments in the region have
been visited to qualify a select group as potential prospects.These prospects are engaged in
dialogue to inform them of the opportunities and activities occurring in the District that
makes it a prime location for their business.
Continually managing a relationship with prospects and
engaging them with new information about the District
is an ongoing process that will continue into perpetuity
as the District,like most other downtowns,experience
r a`e e ' rt'' expected turnover.
; stro Bar
-" New establishments in the District include a fine-dining
French restaurant;a restaurant that offers a wide variety
a ''► .,b of menu selections and flavors,including traditional,
Mexican,Italian,Jamaican and Caribbean;a unique
boutique that carries designer fashion apparel;a bistro
I and bar serving American cuisine;a tapas bar and café;
a café serving sandwiches,salads,wraps and smoothies;
a produce store;and a specialty boutique that showcases
a mix of modern,vintage,and organically inspired
elements.
N
w; Businesses categorized as Living,Shopping or Dining
and are located within the District are featured on
---.001111110 the Cleveland Street District website.As part of this
Krave Bistro and Bar promotion effort,a monthly newsletter is distributed
to over 2,000 email addresses guiding readers to the
website where detailed information can be found about
businesses and events happening in the District.
COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY ANNUAL REPORT FY2010-201
Retail and Restaurant Recruitment Grant Program
The Retail and Restaurant Recruitment Grant Program,funded by the DDB,is offered to
established retailers and restaurants relocating from outside the Cleveland Street District
to,or opening new locations on,the street level of that portion of Cleveland Street located
between Osceola and Myrtle Avenues. It is believed that once Cleveland Street is healthy,
success will radiate to the periphery streets.
To advance recruitment and marketability,the grant provides an incentive to improve the
interior appearance and utility of street level storefronts. The premise is that an attractive
interior building design will attract retail and restaurant owners and draw customers. The
grant offers a maximum cumulative amount not to exceed$35,000 for retail tenants and
$50,000 for restaurant tenants.
Downtown Clearwater Farmer's Market
The Downtown Clearwater Farmer's
Market celebrated their sixteenth year
in operation. Located on the 500 block
of Cleveland Street,the market had a
successful year with increased pedestrian ,4
traffic and an increase in the number of - � \
vendors that participated. The market
continues to operate on Wednesdays
from October through May. �,
*k
The market continues to be known as a
green market and holds several special • r,n . 0-
events during the season.It attracts 1(
weekly visitors to the area and creates i�1 R 1 1 r.
I
a unique place to visit for downtown
workers,City residents and area tourists.
This year,volunteers assisted the market
with their 16th Anniversary celebration.
Farmer's Market
The CRA allocated$6,000 and the DDB
allocated$13,200 from its Downtown
Market line item.
11
COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY ANNUAL REPORT FY2010-2011
CRA and DDB Intergovernmental Relationship
The CRA,the DDB and City of Clearwater Economic Development and Housing
Department staff work well together through an Interlocal Agreement,currently in its
eleventh year.The CRAB administration fee for the fiscal year was$62,170.
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 the 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 continues to support the boat slips by
agreeing to a 10-year funding schedule in the
f r" amount of$50,000 per year for construction
,� and maintenance. The DDB funded inserts for
+ the e Streetsca p Directory Kiosks and a Jolley
, Trolley loop from Clearwater Beach along with
the cities of Dunedin,Palm Harbor and Tarpon
111 Springs.
.
The DDB is active in supporting Clearwater's
illiannual events to include the Sea Blues Festival,
''' the world renowned Clearwater Jazz Holiday
Festival,the Miles for Hope event,the Super
Boat Championships,the Clearwater Film
Festival,the Annual Deaf&Hard of Hearing
Pet Festival Day,Clearwater Art&Fashion Week,
Operation Five Star/Veterans Event,the 2nd
Annual Achieva Box Car Rally and the Star Spectacular concert. The DDB funded its own
events to include the 6th Annual Pet Festival,a Wreath Decorating Contest and the 2nd
Annual Book and Wine Festival.
The DDB financially supports the labor and materials to light the trees and building rooftops
on Cleveland Street from Osceola to Myrtle Avenues.This year,the DDB voted to keep
the palm trees lighted to create visual interest on Cleveland Street. The official holiday
tree lighting ceremony is sponsored,in part,by the DDB in cooperation with the City of
Clearwater.A lighting ceremony,with elected officials,was held as part of the Blast Friday
Miracle on Cleveland Street event.
Attendees participated in the 3rd Annual DDB Wreath Decorating Contest,hearing live
music performed by the Clearwater Academy's children's choir,a toboggan run with 20 tons
21 \,?
of snow and visits with Santa Claus. Radio Disney participated for the second year and
gave the opportunity for children to participate in the interactive games organized by
Radio Disney staff.
The DDB continues its leadership role in funding$50,000 for Blast Friday,a monthly event
coordinated by the Clearwater Downtown Partnership(CDP).These events are just a few
of the many events celebrated and enjoyed by our residents and visitors from around the
world.
DDB Promotion and Business Visitation Committee
When the DDB established the
Business Visitation Committee and the
Promotion Committee in 2009,staff
realized the crossover of duties between
the two. Staff recommended that the
committees merge into one with a DDB
j -1111
member to serve as a co-chairperson.
The DDB agreed and voted to combine
the two committees.
Committee members act as merchant ,
liaisons to new and existing businesses.
Members distribute event materials,
promote the Parking Validation Miracle on Cleveland Street
Program and solicit information on
issues and needs to report back to the
DDB and staff.
Committee members were involved in a host of activities during this reporting period to
include coordinating the Spring Clean-up in conjunction with Keep Pinellas Beautiful,
the Holiday Lighting Ceremony,the 6th Annual Spring Pet Festival,Wreath Decorating
Contest,and the 2nd Annual Book and Wine Festival.
The Downtown Programs Coordinator alerted downtown merchants about marketing
opportunities through the Clearwater City Employees Vendor Discount Program and
Healthy Choices for a Healthy Clearwater Program. The Coordinator also assisted
merchants with various issues,questions and concerns and attended the Florida Main
Street Annual Conference.
‘P )1
COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY ANNUAL REPORT FY2010-2011
Downtown Coordination Committee
Created in 2010,the Downtown Coordination Committee is made up of the Executive
Director of the CRA,the President/CEO of the Clearwater Regional Chamber of
Commerce,the Chair of the DDB,and the Chair of the Clearwater Downtown
Partnership. The committee met monthly to discuss current/future activities,programs
and issues and how these impact Downtown.
Facade Improvement Grant
The Facade/Storefront Improvement Grant is a$5,000 matching grant offered to new and
existing businesses that are located outside of the Cleveland Street District boundaries,but
within the existing CRA boundaries.The grant encourages aesthetic improvements.
No property owners took advantage of the grant during this fiscal year. As new business
owners relocate to the CRA,staff informs them of the program and meetings are held with
those who express an interest.
Cleveland Street Maintenance
The CRA provided for the general maintenance of planters,bricks,street furniture,and
the updating of planter flowers twice this reporting period. Parks and Beautification staff
handled daily trash removal on the sidewalks. The CRA and DDB alternately fund the
pressure washing of the sidewalks every six months or as needed.
The CRA allocated$10,000 from its Cleveland Street Maintenance line item.
Z3
COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY ANNUAL RFPnnT T`' 'n l 0--n 1 1
City of Clearwater, Florida
Community Redevelopment Agency
Governmental Balance Sheet
for the year ended September 30, 2011
General Capital Total
Projects Govemnmental
Funds
Assets
Cash on Hand and in Banks $ 1,213,771 $ 4,232,450 $ 5,446,221
Interest Receivable 33,953 - 33,953
Other Receivables 23,545 1,000 24,545
Land Held for Resale 4,618,670 - 4,618,670
Total Assets $ 5,889,939 $ 4,233,450 $ 10,123,389
Liabilities
Accounts and Contracts Payable $ 43,608 $ 359,752 $ 403,360
Due to Other Government Entities 48,000 - 48,000
Advances from Other Funds 2,874,267 - 2,874,267
Deferred Revenue 23,545 - 23,545
Total Liabiliities ' $ 2,989,420 $ 359,752 $ 3,349,172
Fund Balances
Nonspendable $ 1,718,151 $ - $ 1,718,151
Restricted 2,900,519 3,858,737 6,759,256
Committed - - -
Assigned - 14,961 14,961
Unassigned (1,718,151) - (1,718,151)
Total Fund Balances $ 2,900,519 $ 3,873,698 $ 6,774,217
Total Liabilities and Fund Balances $ 5,889,939 $ 4,233,450 $ 10,123,389
COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY ANNUAL REPORT FY2010-2011
City of Clearwater, Florida
Community Redevelopment Agency
Schedule of Revenues, Expenditures and Changes in Fund Balance -
Budgetary Comparison Schedule - General Fund
u for the year ended September 30, 2011
r
Budgeted Amounts
Original Final GAAP Variance with
Basis Actual Final Budget
Amounts Positive
(Negative)
Revenues
Intergovernmental - Local $ 1,013,627 $ 1,191,035 $ 982,879 $ (208,156)
Investment Earnings 100,000 150,000 163,348 13,348
Miscellaneous 70,018 71,394 70,508 (886)
Total Revenues 1,183,645 1,412,429 1,216,735 (195,694)
Expenditures
Current- Economic
Environment $ 280,002 $ 569,502 $ 397,615 $ 171,887
Excess of Revenues of
Expenditures 903,643 842,927 -: 1 23,807
Other Financing Sources(Uses)
Transfers In $ 900,538 $ 871,244 $ 2,612,756 $ 1,741,512
Transfers Out (1,804,181) (1,714,171) (2,453,166) (738,995)
Total Other Financing
Sources (Uses) (903,643) (842,927) 159,590 1,002,517
Net Change in Fund Balances - - 978,710 978,710
Fund Balance, Beginning of Year $ 1,921,809 $ 1,921,809 $ 1,921,809 $
Fund Balance, End of Year $ 1,921,809 $ 1,921,809 $ 2,900,519 $ 978,710
COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY ANNUAL REPORT FY2010-2011
‘'' ,
ill ,i.
, ,
,. --
.,
, ,
A.,,,, ,
Community Redevelopment Agency Board
George N. Cretekos, Mayor
Paul F. Gibson, Councilmember
Bill Jonson, Councilmember
Doreen Hock-DiPolito, Councilmember
Jay Polglaze, Councilmember
Executive Director of the Community Redevelopment Agency
and Assistant City Manager
Rod Irwin
Director of Economic Development and Housing
Geraldine Campos Lopez
•