03/18/2013 WORK SESSION MEETING MINUTES
CITY OF CLEARWATER
March 18, 2013
Present: Mayor George N. Cretekos, Vice Mayor Paul Gibson, Councilmember
Doreen Hock-DiPolito (Departed 2:36 p.m.), Councilmember Bill
Jonson, and Councilmember Jay E. Polglaze.
Also Present: William B. Horne II - City Manager, Jill S. Silverboard - Assistant City
Manager, Rod Irwin - Assistant City Manager, Pamela K. Akin - City
Attorney, Rosemarie Call - City Clerk, and Nicole Sprague - Official
Records and Legislative Services Coordinator.
To provide continuity for research, items are listed in agenda order although not
necessarily discussed in that order.
Mayor George N. Cretekos called the meeting to order at 1:00 p.m. at City Hall.
It was stated that Councilmember Doreen Hock-DiPolito would be leaving the work
session early to attend the Advisory Committee for Pinellas Transportation meeting.
1. Presentations
1.1 Service Awards
Four service awards were presented to city employees. The February 2013 Employee
of the Month award was presented to Shaun Beasley, Parks and Recreation. The
February 2013 Team of the Month award was to Harold Sanders and Eddie Marry, Solid
Waste.
The Council recessed from 1:11 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. to meet as the Community
Redevelopment Agency and the Pension Trustees.
1.2 Police Recruits Swearing In
The City Clerk administered the Oath of Office to Jeremy Fletcher, Curvan Daniel,
Christopher Marscher, and Scott Steven Penna.
2. Office of Management and Budget
2.1 Amend the City's fiscal year 2012/13 Operating and Capital Improvement
Budgets at first quarter and pass Ordinances 8387-13 and 8388-13 on first
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reading.
The fiscal year 2012/13 Operating and Capital Improvement Budgets were
adopted in September 2012 by Ordinances 8356-12 and 8357-12. Section 2.521
of the City's Code of Ordinances requires the City Manager to prepare a quarterly
report detailing income, expenditure estimates, collections, the explanation of
significant variances, as well as the financial status of all capital improvement
projects. The memorandum and the accompanying report provide this information
and outline the issues at first quarter that require amendment.
Budget Director Tina Wilson said the major reason for the overall General Fund
expenditure increase is due to the increase of$738,290 in major medical insurance
across all departments to fund the self insurance program for health insurance and the
Cigna contract for plan administration for the calendar year 2013. This increase is offset
by an allocation of Central Insurance Fund reserves. Appropriations of General Fund
retained earnings total $510,050 at first quarter which include the following: $200,000
for Pier 60 Park Repair and Improvements and $250,000 for Natural Gas Vehicles,
$18,450 to fund the wage increases for the City Manager and City Attorney, $14,000 for
landscape improvements at Island Way, $5,600 for an increase in funding to the
Homeless Leadership Board, and $22,000 to fund the increase for the new federal
lobbyist contract; all of which were previously approved by Council.
At first quarter, general fund revenue amendments reflect an increase of$400,000 and
Police program expenditures reflect an increase of$181,760 to establish the red light
program, which includes the funding of a previously approved part-time position and
related contractual service costs.
First quarter budget amendments to the Garage Fund reflect a net increase of
$103,082. Amendments include an allocation of Garage Fund reserves for $79,225 to
fund the purchase of a replacement generator for Bright House Field as previously
approved by Council. Major medical insurance is increased by $23,857 to fund the 2013
Cigna contract with offsetting revenues from the Central Insurance Fund.
Staff was directed to provide the current balance for the parking fund.
2.2 Provide direction for the final budget public hearing dates in September for the
adoption of the 2013/14 Annual Operating and Capital Improvement Budget.
(WSO)
In response to a suggestion, the City Clerk said the budget hearing may not be
scheduled before 6:00 p.m.
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There was consensus to schedule a work session on September 3, 2013 at 3:00 p.m.
and a special budget hearing following the work session at 6:00 p.m.
3. Financial Services
3.1 Approve the purchase of property insurance policies from April 1, 2013 through
April 1, 2014, at the level of insurance listed, at an amount not to exceed
$2,011,238, and authorize the appropriate officials to execute same. (consent)
The Risk Management Division of the Finance Department requested Arthur J.
Gallagher and Co. (Florida) to obtain quotes for the property insurance program
expiring April 1, 2013. Per the quotes obtained, Risk Management is
recommending that the City maintain its current coverage of$50 million wind limit
with a $50 million/$30 million Flood sub-limit to (depending on property location).
The self-insured retention would remain at $100,000 per occurrence, with a 5% or
$500,000 SIR (whichever is greater) for named storms. Risk Management is
recommending the City maintain the stand-alone policy through Zurich that it
obtained last year to insure City-owned bridges. This program would continue to
incorporate a self-insured retention of$100,000 per occurrence, with a $500,000
SIR for named storms, and provide the City with an additional $47 million of
aggregate windstorm/flood/terrorism capacity for the City's program. When this
stand-alone policy was initiated last year, it resulted in a 60% reduction from the
2011-2012 rate and provided a three-year rate guarantee.
Additionally, Risk Management recommends that the City renew its Equipment
Breakdown policy with Travelers. Last year the City saw a 10.2% decrease from
the 2011-2012 rate. This year's rate is essentially unchanged from last year's
decreased rate. With the $50 million wind limit, the total premium is estimated at
$1,911,238, which represents an increase of approximately $40,492, or 2%, over
the prior year. The agenda item also includes a $100,000 contingency for
additional insurance needs during the coming year.
Risk Management believes that should the coverage as recommended be placed,
the City's property risks are covered at levels and rates which, when taken
together as a whole, represent a reasonable insurance program for the City.
In response to a question, Risk Manager Linda Klasing said staff received a revised
rate; staff recommends pursuing the $60 million wind limit. The additional coverage will
not exceed $2,134,056.
Staff was directed to amend the agenda and take Item 3.1 off the Consent Agenda.
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3.2 Confirm a Property claim made by the Phillies not to exceed $109,000 and
authorize the appropriate officials to execute same. (consent)
On June 24, 2012, the Brighthouse Stadium complex suffered wind damage and
flooding of the field and bottom floor of the Phillies complex. The Phillies' personal
property suffered flood and wind damage. The amount claimed represents
reimbursement to the Phillies for those items damaged. The Risk Management
Division/Finance Department is seeking confirmation of a settlement not to
exceed $109,000. The City's Risk Management Division and Claims Committee
recommend this confirmation. Funding for the payment of this settlement is
available in the budget for claims expense in the Central Insurance Fund.
4. Marine and Aviation
4.1 Approve transferring $100,000 from the Special Program Fund to Pier 60 Capital
Improvement project 315-93417, Pier 60 Refurbishment, to purchase new
benches, trash receptacles, fish cleaning tables, LED lights, storage containers
and underwater lights. (consent)
On December 20, 2012, the City Council approved the contract by Construction
Manager at Risk Biltmore Construction Co., Inc. of Belleair, for the refurbishment
of Pier 60, which included all labor and materials to complete concrete deck and
support repairs, railing replacement and installation of a catwalk for the bait house
at a cost of$498,096.00. The bid came in high and there were insufficient funds to
purchase new benches, trash receptacles, fish cleaning tables, LED lights,
storage containers and underwater lights.
An additional $100,000 is needed to increase capital project 315-93417, Pier 60
Refurbishment to provide funds for these amenities. A mid-year budget
amendment will transfer$100,000 from the Special Program Fund to provide
funding for these items.
5. Public Utilities
5.1 Ratify and confirm additional contract work by GML Coatings of Lakewood
Ranch, FL, for additional sandblastinq and coating of interior pipes in the 5
million gallon storage tank at Water Treatment Plant 3, which increases the
contract amount by $36,525.00 for a new total contract amount of$158,215.00.
consent
In March of 2008, Underwater Solutions (UWS) conducted an inspection and
cleaning of the East 5-million gallon concrete water storage tank at water
Work Session 2013-03-18 4
treatment plant 3. The purpose of this cleaning and inspection was to meet a 5-
year regulatory requirement and to provide information regarding the overall
condition and integrity of this structure. The opinion of UWS was that the storage
tank appeared generally sound and without leakage.
The following item is noted as a recommendation made by UWS: The baffle wall
surface should be coated using an A.N.S.I / N.S.F.61 approved coating for use in
structures containing potable water.
It was also noted that the wall was coated with a non-uniform protective coating
having good adhesion value.
Based upon the recommendation of UWS, Public Utilities moved to address the
issue by creating a capital improvement project for the Fiscal Year 2012-2013.
GML Coatings was chosen as the vendor for this project based on the quality of
their coating and that they have performed similar coatings on other water
treatment structures for the City.
On December 6, 2012, Council approved funds in the amount of$121,690.00 for
the repair of the concrete baffle wall and the application of a liner to the baffle wall
in the 5 million gallon storage tank at Water Treatment Plant 3, performed by GML
Coatings.
GML was scheduled to begin work on January 28, 2013. The work to be
performed consisted of pressure washing the baffle wall and recoating. The work
was expected to last between 2 to 3 weeks. While pressure washing the wall,
GML noted that the old non-uniform coating was not being removed effectively by
pressure washing and would need to be removed by sandblasting. Concurrently,
City Water Supply staff was conducting a cleaning and tank inspection and noted
a large amount of corrosion on metal pipes that transmit water within the
structure. This corrosion was also noted in the 2008 report from UWS, but was not
recommended as an item for repair. Upon inspection, it appears that the corrosion
is getting worse and should be addressed and incorporated into the baffle wall
coating.
GML was asked to provide a quote for the additional sand blasting and coating of
interior pipes.
The additional, necessary contract work includes: sandblasting price to remove
the lining from both sides of the baffle wall surface area (approximately 9,916 sq.
ft.), taking into account that GML Coatings' equipment is already on site, and
coating all pipes that are parallel to the top of the baffle wall and below. The
increase in costs is for the following: additional materials, fuel, and labor.
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Sufficient budget and funding is available in Utility R and R revenue in 0327-
96721, System R and R to fund this project.
6. Engineering
6.1 Award a contract to Steve's Excavating and Paving, Dunedin, Florida, in the
amount of$179,410.00 for the 2013 Stormwater Repairs (12-0040-EN) and
authorize the appropriate officials to execute same. (consent)
Four locations have been identified for the 2013 Stormwater Repair Contract as
follows: Rehabilitate a total of approximately 1470 linear feet of existing
stormwater conveyance swales at two locations; Landmark Woods of Countryside
and Eagles Landing.
An existing corrugated metal pipe located at Spring Lake South is deteriorated
and in need of replacement. This degradation has caused erosion and structural
impacts to the adjacent seawall. In additions to the replacement of the failing pipe,
a secondary seawall cap will be constructed to rehabilitate the structure of the
seawall.
An abandoned 12-inch reinforced concrete stormwater pipe located on Skyview
Avenue will be grouted to preserve the structural integrity of the roadway
surface.Steve's Excavating and Paving is the lowest responsible bidder. There
were two other bidders.
The City of Clearwater's Stormwater Maintenance Division is responsible for
operating, inspecting, and maintaining the storm systems. The repairs listed in this
contract will improve the stormwater capacity, reduce flooding and erosion
concerns of our citizens, reduce the frequency of maintenance requests, and
provide the appropriate structural integrity of our infrastructure. Sufficient funding
is available in Capital Improvement Program project 0315-96124, Storm Pipe
System Improvements.
6.2 Approve Engineer of Record (EOR) design Work Order to Interflow Engineering,
Inc., of Tampa, FL, in the amount of$285,098; approve a Cooperative Funding
Agreement with Southwest Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD), in
the amount of$550,000 for design of Magnolia Drive Outfall Storm Drainage and
Water Quality Improvements project (12-0023-EM and authorize the appropriate
officials to execute same. (consent)
The Magnolia Drive Outfall Storm Drainage and Water Quality Improvements
project will provide a new and larger outfall for approximately 45 acres. The
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project begins at South Ft. Harrison Avenue near Druid Road and outfalls at the
west end of Magnolia Street at the seawall.
Construction of this project includes installation of approximately 5,230 LF of pipe
of various sizes, 45 curb inlets and 20 manholes.
This project will also include installation of a stormwater treatment device to
collect pollutants and improve the quality of water discharging into Clearwater
Harbor.
The project will be cooperatively funded by SWFWMD at 50 percent of design and
construction cost up to a maximum of$550,000.
The project also includes replacement of 1,540 LF of sanitary sewer main. This
portion of the project is not cooperatively funded by the SFWMD.
The project also includes design and replacement of a deteriorating flume,
approximately 100 LF long, located in Forest Run Park. This portion of the project
is not cooperatively funded by the SWFWMD.
Midyear amendments will establish Capital improvement Program (CIP) project
0315-96184, Magnolia Drive Outfall with SWFWMD budget only in the amount of
$550,000 and transfer $550,000 from CIP 0315-96170, Coastal Basins Project, to
match the grant, which provides $263,078 for the Magnolia Dr portion of the
design work order.
Sufficient funding in the amounts of$10,023 is available in CIP 0315-96124,
Storm Pipe System Improvement to fund Forest Run Park Flume and $11,997 in
0327-96634, Sanitary Utility Relocation Accommodation, to fund the Gravity
Sanitary Sewer Main Replacement for funding of the work order in the amount of
285,098 and total project funding of Magnolia Dr Outfall in the amount of
$1,100,000.
6.3 Award a contract to Southeast Drilling Services, Inc. of Tampa, Florida for the
construction of the Treatment Plant 2 Contract 1: Remote Well Facilities
Expansion Project in the amount of$2,335,845.60, which is the lowest
responsible bid in accordance with plans and specifications; and authorize the
appropriate officials to execute same. (consent)
The City of Clearwater currently operates one Reverse Osmosis (RO) Water
Treatment Plant and is preparing to build a second RO plant located at 21133 N.
US Hwy 19 within the City of Clearwater.
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A cooperative funding agreement (CFA) between the Southwest Florida Water
Management District (SWFWMD) and the City of Clearwater provides for the
design, permitting and construction of a brackish reverse osmosis (RO) facility at
Water Treatment Plant (WTP) 2. SWFWMD and the City of Clearwater both
anticipate that the total cost of the project will be $30,433,780, and SWFWMD will
reimburse up to 50% of all costs associated with this project (up to and not to
exceed $15,216,890.). There is no cost to the City associated with the SWFWMD
Agreement.
This project is one of many components that are being completed for the City to
construct the second RO plant at WTP 2. One component was approved by the
City Council, and the other components are out for bid and will be brought forward
at future City Council meetings.
The Work to be completed is construction of the pumping and controls equipment
for twelve new brackish well facilities and replacement of four remote fresh well
facilities at various locations throughout the City. The well drilling contract for
these wells were bid and awarded previously to Southeast Drilling Services, Inc.
at the December 6, 2012 Council meeting.
The City is utilizing Owner's Direct Purchase (ODP) option for selected
equipment, and the tax savings is estimated at $20,468.The contract period for
construction is 365 consecutive calendar days estimated to start in May 2013 and
finish in May 2014.The Public Utilities Department shall own and maintain the
proposed improvements included in this contract.
Resolution 12-12 was passed on November 1, 2012, establishing the City's intent
to reimburse certain Water and Sewer Utility project costs incurred with future tax-
exempt financing. The projects identified with 2014 revenue bonds as a funding
source were included in the project list associated with Resolution 12-12.A
midyear amendment will increase budget only by SWFWMD funding in the
amount of$1,167,922.80 in Capital Improvement Program project 0315-96767,
Reverse Osmosis Plant at Reservoir 2.Sufficient budget for interim financing or
funding with 2014 Water and Sewer Revenue Bonds will be available when issued
in the amount of$1,167,922.80 in 0381-96767, Reverse Osmosis Plant at
Reservoir 2 for total in the amount of$2,335,845.60.
6.4 Award a contract to Young's Communications, Inc. of Melbourne, Florida, for the
construction of Treatment Plant 2 Contract 2: Raw Water Transmission Main
US19 Crossing Project in the amount of$934,611.70, which is the lowest
responsible bid in accordance with plans and specifications; and authorize the
appropriate officials to execute same. (consent)
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The City of Clearwater currently operates one Reverse Osmosis (RO) Water
Treatment Plant, and is preparing to build a second RO plant located at 21133 N.
US Hwy 19 within the City of Clearwater.
A cooperative funding agreement (CFA) between the Southwest Florida Water
Management District (SWFWMD) and the City of Clearwater provides for the
design, permitting and construction of a brackish reverse osmosis (RO) facility at
Water Treatment Plant (WTP) 2. SWFWMD and the City of Clearwater both
anticipate that the total cost of the project will be $30,433,780, and SWFWMD will
reimburse up to 50% of all costs associated with this project (up to and not to
exceed $15,216,890.). There is no cost to the City associated with the SWFWMD
Agreement.
This project is one of many components that are being completed for the City to
construct the second RO plant at WTP 2. One component was approved by the
City Council, and the other components are out for bid and will be brought forward
at future City Council meetings.
The subject contract is for the construction of the raw water supply system from
US 19 to the water treatment plant site. It includes approximately 2,000 linear feet
of 8-inch raw water transmission main piping; 2,000 linear feet of 12-inch raw
water transmission main piping; 3,700 linear feet of 8-inch concentrate water
piping; 3,600 linear feet of 6-inch backwash water piping; 900 linear feet of 6-inch
sanitary force main piping; and 3,600 linear feet of 3-inch communication conduit
piping. In addition, the contractor will perform modifications to the existing city
potable water system associated with the new raw water transmission mains.
The contract period for construction is 270 consecutive calendar days estimated
to start in May 2013 and finish in January 2014.The Public Utilities Department
shall own and maintain the proposed improvements included in this contract.
Resolution 12-12 was passed on November 1, 2012, establishing the City's intent
to reimburse certain Water and Sewer Utility project costs incurred with future tax-
exempt financing. The projects identified with 2014 revenue bonds as a funding
source were included in the project list associated with Resolution 12-12.A
midyear amendment will increase budget only for SWFWMD grant funding in the
amount of$467,305.85 Capital Improvement Program project 0315-96767,
Reverse Osmosis Plant at Reservoir.
Sufficient budget for interim financing or funding with 2014 Water and Sewer
Revenue Bonds will be available when issued in the amount of$467,305.85 in
0381-96767, Reverse Osmosis Plant at Reservoir 2.
Work Session 2013-03-18 9
7. Planning
7.1 Approve the Annexation of a portion of the road right-of-way located at the
intersection of Sunset Point Road and Hercules Avenue (consisting of a portion
of Section 1, Township 29 South, Range 15 East, abutting real property whose
post office address is 1990 Sunset Point Road); and pass Ordinances 8374-13,
8384-13, and 8385-13 on first reading. (ANX2012-12006)
This annexation petition involves 0.042 acres of a portion of the right-of-way
located on the northwest corner of the intersection of Sunset Point Road and
Hercules Avenue. The City of Clearwater is requesting this annexation in order to
ensure that the entire right-of-way at this intersection is within the city's
jurisdiction. The property is contiguous to existing City boundaries to the north,
south, east, and west. It is proposed that the property be assigned a Future Land
Use Map designation of Commercial General (CG) and a Zoning Atlas
designation of Commercial (C).
The Planning and Development Department determined that the proposed
annexation is consistent with the provisions of Community Development Code
Section 4-604.E as follows:
The proposed annexation will not have an adverse effect on public facilities and
their levels of service; and
The proposed annexation is consistent with and promotes the following objective
of the Clearwater Comprehensive Plan:
Objective A.6.4: Due to the built-out character of the City of Clearwater, compact
urban development within the urban service area shall be promoted through
application of the Clearwater Community Development Code.
The proposed annexation is consistent with the Countywide Plan and the City's
Comprehensive Plan and Community Development Code; and
The property proposed for annexation is contiguous to existing City boundaries to
the north, south, east and west; therefore the annexation is consistent with Florida
Statutes Chapter 171.044.
In response to a question, Planner Lauren Matzke said the right-of-way being annexed
belongs to Pinellas County.
7.2 Approve the Annexation, Initial Land Use Plan Designation of Residential Low
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(RL) and Initial Zoninq Atlas Designation of Low Medium Density Residential
(LMDR) District for 1705 Evans Drive (Lots 28 and 29, Block 6, Virginia Grove
Terrace Fourth Addition in Section 5, Township 29 South, Range 16 East); and
pass Ordinances 8376-13, 8377-13 and 8378-13 on first reading. (ANX2013-
01001)
This voluntary annexation petition involves a 0.386-acre property consisting of
one parcel of land occupied by a single-family dwelling. It is located on the east
side of Evans Drive, approximately 151 feet north of SR 590. The applicant is
requesting this annexation in order to receive sanitary sewer and solid waste
service from the City. The property is located within an enclave and is contiguous
to existing city boundaries to the north and west. It is proposed that the property
be assigned a Future Land Use Plan designation of Residential Low (RL) and a
zoning category of Low Medium Density Residential (LMDR).
The Planning and Development Department determined that the proposed
annexation is consistent with the provisions of Community Development Code
Section 4-604.E as follows:
The property currently receives water service from Pinellas County. The closest
sanitary sewer line is located in the adjacent Evans Drive right-of-way.
The applicant has not paid the City's sewer impact and assessment fees and is
aware of the additional costs to extend city sewer service to this property.
Collection of solid waste will be provided by the City of Clearwater. The property is
located within Police District II and service will be administered through the district
headquarters located at 645 Pierce Street. Fire and emergency medical services
will be provided to this property by Station 48 located at 1700 N. Belcher Road.
The City has adequate capacity to serve this property with sanitary sewer, solid
waste, police, fire and EMS service.
The proposed annexation will not have an adverse effect on public facilities and
their levels of service; and The proposed annexation is consistent with and
promotes the following objective of the Clearwater Comprehensive Plan:
Objective A.6.4 Due to the built-out character of the City of Clearwater, compact
urban development within the urban service area shall be promoted through
application of the Clearwater Community Development Code.
Objective A.7.2 Diversify and expand the City's tax base through the annexation
of a variety of land uses located within the Clearwater Planning Area.
Work Session 2013-03-18 11
Policy A.7.2.3 Continue to process voluntary annexations for single-family
residential properties upon request.
The proposed RL Future Land Use Plan category is consistent with the current
Countywide Plan designation of this property. This designation primarily permits
residential uses at a density of five units per acre. The proposed zoning district to
be assigned to the property is the Low Medium Density Residential (LMDR)
District. The use of the subject property is consistent with the uses allowed in the
District and the property exceeds the District's minimum dimensional
requirements. The proposed annexation is therefore consistent with the
Countywide Plan and the City's Comprehensive Plan and Community
Development Code; and the property proposed for annexation is contiguous to
existing City boundaries to the north and west; therefore the annexation is
consistent with Florida Statutes Chapter 171.044.
7.3 Approve the annexation, initial Future Land Use Map designation of Residential
Urban (RU) and initial Zoning Atlas designation of Low Medium Density
Residential (LMDR) District for 1200 Aloha Lane (Lot 1, Block 3, Sunset Knoll in
Section 3, Township 29 South, Range 15 East) together with the abutting right-
of-way of Douglas Avenue; and pass Ordinances 8379-13, 8380-13 and 8381-13
on first reading. (ANX2012-12007)
This voluntary annexation petition involves a 0.164-acre property consisting of
one parcel of land occupied by a single-family dwelling. It is located on the
northeast corner of Aloha Lane and Douglas Avenue. The applicant is requesting
this annexation in order to receive solid waste service from the City, and will
connect to city sewer when it is available in the future, as part of the City's
Idlewild/The Mall Septic-to-Sewer Project. The Planning and Development
Department is requesting that the 0.083-acres of abutting Douglas Avenue right-
of-way not currently within the city limits also be annexed. The property is
contiguous to existing City boundaries to the north and west. It is proposed that
the property be assigned a Future Land Use Map designation of Residential
Urban (RU) and a Zoning Atlas designation of Low Medium Density Residential
(LMDR).
The Planning and Development Department determined that the proposed
annexation is consistent with the provisions of Clearwater Community
Development Code Section 4-604.E as follows:
The property currently receives water service from the City. Collection of solid
waste service will be provided to the property by the City. The applicant will
connect to the city's sanitary sewer service when it is available, and is aware of
the fee that must be paid in order to connect and the financial incentives available.
Work Session 2013-03-18 12
The property is located within Police District 11 and service will be administered
through the district headquarters located at 645 Pierce Street. Fire and
emergency medical services will be provided to this property by Station 51 located
at 1720 Overbrook Avenue. The City has adequate capacity to serve this property
with sanitary sewer, solid waste, police, fire and EMS service. The proposed
annexation will not have an adverse effect on public facilities and their levels of
service; and
The proposed annexation is consistent with and promotes the following objective
of the Clearwater Comprehensive Plan:
Objective A.6.4 Due to the built-out character of the City of Clearwater, compact
urban development within the urban service area shall be promoted through
application of the Clearwater Community Development Code.
Objective A.7.2 Diversify and expand the City's tax base through the annexation
of a variety of land uses located within the Clearwater Planning Area.
Policy A.7.2.3 Continue to process voluntary annexations for single-family
residential properties upon request.
The proposed Residential Urban (RU) Future Land Use Map category is
consistent with the current Countywide Plan designation of this property. This
designation primarily permits residential uses at a density of 7.5 units per acre.
The proposed zoning district to be assigned to the property is the Low Medium
Density Residential (LMDR) District. The use of the subject property is consistent
with the uses allowed in the district and the property exceeds the district's
minimum dimensional requirements. The proposed annexation is therefore
consistent with the Countywide Plan and the City's Comprehensive Plan and
Community Development Code; and
The property proposed for annexation is contiguous to existing City boundaries to
the north and west; therefore, the annexation is consistent with Florida Statutes
Chapter 171.044.
7.4 Provide City Council the Business Task Force's recommendation regarding a
revised Development Agreement review process.
At City Council's direction, the Planning and Development Department and City
Attorney's office met with the Executive Committee of the Business Task Force on
March 1, 2013 to discuss options for a revised Development Agreement process.
Option 1
Work Session 2013-03-18 13
The Business Task Force is recommending that the process and requirements be
revised to start with the applicant submitting a development agreement and a
conceptual plan to City Council for approval. A conceptual plan would only
include the building footprint and information regarding building height, density
and number of rooms to be requested for the hotel density reserve (if applicable).
If approved by City Council the applicant would then go through the site plan
approval process. It is proposed that the City Council would have no role after the
site plan process unless the terms of the Development Agreement need be
revised. City Council approval would be at the first public hearing with the
conceptual plan and the final site plan would be contingent upon the Community
Development Board (or staff's) final approval. The City Attorney's office has
concerns with this option as it is unclear if having the Board/Staff issue final
approval would fulfill the intent of Florida Statues.
Option 2
If the above option is not acceptable, the Business Task Force would ask Council
to consider revising the Code to provide the applicant with the option to present a
conceptual plan that shows the building footprint, height, density and rooms to be
requested from the hotel density reserve, along with the development agreement
prior to submitting plans to the Community Development Board. The Council
would vote to authorize the applicant to start the CDB process. Once the site plan
is approved by staff/CDB, the Council would retain its discretion to approve or
reject the development agreement at the end of the process (final public hearing).
This modified process would give the applicant an indication of Council's support
at the beginning of the process; however, it would not be binding upon final
review.
Option 3
If Council is interested in a process that would allow for a conceptual site plan to
be submitted before a final one is prepared such as discussed in the first
paragraph above, staff would recommend that the process start with the applicant
submitting the development agreement and conceptual plan to the Community
Development Board (first public hearing) and then submit to City Council (final
public hearing) which would be approved by resolution contingent upon a final site
plan approved by the Community Development Board/Staff as required by Code.
In response to questions, Assistant City Attorney Leslie Dougall-Sides said the
Business Task Force Executive Committee reviewed several examples. The City of
Key West uses a receipt and referral process; the local governing body would receive
the application, which is referred to staff in order to negotiate the development
agreement with the developer before returning to the local governing body for the final
approval. Ms. Dougall-Sides said the city of Dunedin uses a similar process.
Work Session 2013-03-18 14
Business Task Force Executive Committee Chair Brian Aungst, Jr. reviewed Option 1
and said the major concern raised by the Committee is the upfront cost for full site
plans, engineering and architectural plan requirements. Option 1 backloads the most
expensive portion of the plan requirements; staff can determine if the engineering is up
to code. Option 1 addresses the Committee's concern.
The City Attorney said Council only reviews the level 3 approvals, projects requiring a
development agreement. Development agreements typically allow for a longer term of
approval; on the Beach it is typically used for density units.
Staff was directed to provide information regarding Pinellas County's development
agreement process.
7.5 Update regarding enforcement of the City's new sidewalk provisions adopted on
August 16, 2012. (WSO)
City Council approved Ordinance 8343-12, which allowed sidewalk signs for all
primary permitted retail and restaurant uses 42 in. in height and 24 in. in width
provided certain locational and design criteria were met and a permit obtained.
When the ordinance was passed, City Council directed the Planning and
Development Department to provide City Council an update on compliance with
the new provisions.
Code Compliance staff started enforcement efforts on Clearwater Beach, the
Downtown District and then Ft. Harrison and Gulf to Bay by walking door-to-door
and educating businesses on the new provisions. They provided informational
materials and issued courtesy notices. Door to door education became extremely
time consuming and failed to bring about the desired results so the usual method
of code compliance began for the remainder of the city.
As of January 28, 20137 53 code compliance cases had been opened. Of those,
seven properties came into compliance after a courtesy notice was issued and
seven were resolved after a Notice of Violation was issued; the remainder are in
various stages of the enforcement process. To date, a total of 12 permits for
sidewalk signs have been issued. Approximately half of those were a result of
door to door contact while four were the result of code enforcement action (notice
of violation).
Staff has encountered a variety of responses from business owners. Some seem
happy to have the opportunity to use a sidewalk sign while others have been
unhappy with the requirements that have to be met. One of the main complaints
has been that the sign has to be two feet from the business building as most want
Work Session 2013-03-18 15
to use the sign to attract the driving public. Others have voiced frustrations that
they have to buy a new sign.
In response to questions, Planning and Development Assistant Director Gina Clayton
said there are currently 71 code cases involving sidewalk signs. Sign Inspector Mary Jo
Weaver said 30 of the cases have complied by removing the sidewalk signs. The
issues on Clearwater Beach have begun since Spring Break. Assistant City Manager
Jill Silverboard said code compliance enforcement is ongoing; the process does not
have an end.
Staff was directed to report status of dog friendly restaurants at a future work session.
The Council recessed from 2:59 p.m. to 3:05 p.m.
8. Legal
8.1 Adopt Ordinance 8382-13 on second reading, vacating portions of both Third
Avenue North and Fourth Avenue North, both properties lying east of First Street
East in Section A, Chautauqua on the Lake as recorded in Plat Book 9, Page 52
of the public records of Pinellas county, Florida contingent upon the city retaining
a drainage and utility easement over the vacated portion of Third Avenue North.
8.2 Adopt Ordinance 8386-13 on second reading, imposing a temporary abatement
on the operation and use of simulated gaming devices for the use by the public
in any premises.
9. City Manager Verbal Reports
9.1 Strategic Visioning - John Streitmatter, Leadership Research Institute, Inc.
Consultant John Streitmatter reviewed the draft vision, mission, and strategic direction.
The meeting with community business representatives will be on April 29 at the
Clearwater Main Library from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Mr. Streitmatter said he is working
with staff regarding an online public engagement component for those who are unable
to attend the public meeting and scheduling a meeting with the
community/neighborhood leaders.
In response to questions, Mr. Streitmatter said he will synthesize the feedback received
at the public meetings and online engagement into a working draft in order to present
Council with a final version.
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Council directed staff to create a fourth box for developing community/neighborhood
character in the strategic direction that ties into economic development for further
consideration.
9.2 New City Hall
The City Manager said Environmental Manager Ed Chesney will be managing the new
city hall project.
In response to a concern, Mr. Chesney said the Main Library could be reconfigured to
accommodate space for council chambers on the first floor and most of the employees
currently housed in City Hall would be relocated to the second floor; library staff would
be shifted to the third floor. Equity Services and Economic Development and Housing
departments could be housed elsewhere. Additional parking spaces and overflow
parking spaces would be needed at the library site.
Discussion ensued with concerns expressed regarding the limited access a combined
City Hall/Library would have on the public. It was also stated that a combined library
and city hall facility should not have a common entrance due to the different hours of
operation; city hall should be a focal point for the community.
The City Manager said the Memorandum of Understanding with the Clearwater Marine
Aquarium (CMA) will include the date CMA will need the current City Hall site. Initial
conversations indicate that construction may begin in 2015, requiring a temporary city
hall location. Assistant City Manager Jill Silverboard said there is no funding budgeted
for the new city hall; the line item in Penny for Pinellas was eliminated when the roof
and elevators were replaced and energy efficiency upgrades were implemented. It was
believed the improvements would provide sufficient time to set funds aside for a new
city hall.
Mr. Chesney said the new Dunedin City Hall had a $268 per square foot cost; total
construction cost was $5.1 million. Engineering Director Mike Quillen said if the new
city hall undertakes a design-build effort, the design/permitting process will take one
year and eighteen months for constructions. The new city hall would be completed in
early 2016. The City Attorney said the CMA has indicated their design process will take
twenty-two months.
Staff was directed to provide council with location alternatives, to include the city owned
parcel across the Municipal Services Building, and funding plan at a future work
session.
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10. Council Discussion Items
10.1 100 year celebration - Mayor Cretekos
Mayor George N. Cretekos said Council should provide direction regarding how to
approach the year-round celebratory activities.
The City Manager said council direction regarding extent of city-sponsored activities and
proposed budget is needed in order for staff to begin the planning process. Artist
Christopher Sills has expressed an interest to create a commemorative painting that
could be incorporated into the celebration. Legal Office Administrator Gina DeWitt will
be the point of contact for the event.
Staff was directed to provide Council with list of proposed ideas and estimated costs at
a future work session.
It was suggested that staff contact Chamber of Commerce consultant Anita Treiser for
assistance.
10.2 Proclamations - Mayor Cretekos
Mayor George N. Cretekos requested consideration to amend Council Policy to allow
proclamations be issued to religious institutions for a significant anniversary event.
Discussion ensued with consensus to amend the policy to read, "The City of Clearwater
will consider issuing proclamations from all segments of the community without regard
to gender, race, ethnicity or handicap. Proclamations will not be issued to individuals,
companies, "for profit" organizations, profit making agencies, political organizations or
religious organizations, except for significant anniversary events of 50 years or 100
years
The City Clerk said the amendment will be presented to Council at the April 1, 2013
work session.
10.3 Crestlake Park Restrooms - Mayor Cretekos
Mayor George N. Cretekos requested consideration to renovate Crest Lake Park, a
neighborhood park, into a signature city park.
Parks and Recreation Director Kevin Dunbar said there is $1.5 million available in
Penny for Pinellas funds for the park renovations; the funding will be available during
fiscal years 2017 and 2018.
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Discussion ensued with concerns expressed with time lapse before restroom facilities
become available again. It was stated that if restrooms were demolished, a redesigned
park should be expedited.
In response to questions, Mr. Dunbar said restroom facilities at Del Oro Park and
Bayfront Park have been removed. The restrooms at Countryside Community Park
were removed and replaced at the Little League fields, which are open only during little
league activities. The restrooms facilities at Woodgate Park are closed, but not
removed. Mr. Dunbar said the restrooms at Cherry Harris Park are closed, but could
open for special events. Community parks or specialized parks attract individuals from
farther distances who do not have the opportunity to go home to use restrooms. These
restrooms are maintained by the City; staff opens/closes and clean the facilities. Pocket
parks attract individuals who live nearby and can return home to use the restroom.
Coachman Park does not have restroom facilities; portalets are rented for special
events.
Community Development Manager Ekaterini Gerakios said the restrooms facilities in
Crest Lake Park were closed due to lack of funding for restroom maintenance and
increased police resources to address illegal activities.
11. Closing Comments by Mayor— None.
12. Adjourn
The meeting adjourned at 5:14 p.m.
Work Session 2013-03-18 19