07/29/1991
July 29, 1991
The City Commission of the City of Clearwater met at City Hall with the following members present:
Rita Garvey Mayor/Commissioner
Sue Berfield Vice-Mayor/Commissioner
Lee Regulski Commissioner
William Nunamaker Commissioner
Richard Fitzgerald Commissioner
Also present were:
Michael J. Wright City Manager
M. A. Galbraith, Jr. City Attorney
Cynthia E. Goudeau City Clerk
Three Service Pins were awarded.
The mayor called the meeting to order at 9:05 a.m. and the following items were discussed:
Presentation by the National Estuary Program
Richard Eckenrod, Director, indicated the program has been set up as a partnership of local agencies to protect certain waterways. There are seventeen national estuary programs throughout
the country. The major mission of the program is to develop a comprehensive program for the restoration of Tampa Bay. He indicated once this long range plan has been developed, the
other agencies involved such as SWFWMD, DER and EPA will take over the implementation of the program. Seventy-five percent of the funding for the program comes through the federal EPA.
The remaining twenty-five percent is equally divided between the Basin Boards, counties and cities represented on the Committee.
Mr. Eckenrod indicated that Clearwater, having a seat on the Committee, has some control over how the money is spent. It is proposed this be a four year program to develop the plan
and then the Committee be disbanded.
Discussion ensued regarding the program with concerns being expressed that all communities in Pinellas County are not being asked to contribute to the program and concern that this
agency would duplicate efforts of already existing agencies. Mr. Eckenrod indicated they tried to minimize duplication and this agency is simply to develop a plan in a very limited
term.
It was indicated the federal funding through EPA would not be available to Tampa Bay unless they had the National Estuary program.
Further discussion ensued regarding the purposes of this committee and what authority it would have. It was indicated the committee would come up with the
plan and suggest policies and it would be up to the other agencies to enforce them.
Additional concerns were expressed regarding duplication and that if the City chose not to fund the $9,000 contribution, that it would loose its voting seat on the committee.
Presentation by the Center Foundation
Mark Abdo, Executive Director of The Long Center, distributed a packet of information to the Commission regarding the Center's budget and financial situation. He indicated the Center
has saved $61,000 through the use of volunteers and that 88% of the users of the Center are Clearwater residents.
In response to questions, Mr. Abdo indicated the overhead for the Center consists of seven full-time people and volunteers are used wherever possible. In scheduling use of the facility,
he indicated each quarter the participating agencies, as well as the general public memberships, sit down and schedule the programming at the Center. They are working toward a balance
between instructional and general recreational time. He stated they are also considering three month group and family plan memberships. They currently have over 4,000 public memberships.
He reported they are also considering discount memberships for use during non-prime-time hours.
Jeff Butler, representing the Clearwater Center Foundation, addressed the Foundation's contribution to the operation of the Long Center. He stated this year's contribution appears
to be down because the contribution from last year was from fund raising, not from the endowment. He stated the endowment is giving $120,000 to the Long Center.
A question was raised regarding certain contributions being used for capital improvement rather than going into the endowment and it was indicated those donations were earmarked by
the donator for the capital improvements.
Concerns were expressed that the City is being requested to fund the Center Foundation by $86,000 more than it did last year. It was indicated that the funding formula is based on
the City's usage of the facility.
In response to a question regarding what would happen if the City of Clearwater stopped using the facility, Mr. Abdo indicated that the Center would continue but would have to raise
fees and/or cut programs.
Presentation by the Pinellas Economic Development Council
David Knowlton, President of the Pinellas Economic Development Council (PEDC), stated they work closely with the Tampa Bay Partnership in attempting to attract businesses that will
generate jobs and improve the economy of Pinellas County. He stated they are requesting additional funding in order to reach a funding level equivalent to other economic development
agencies. He emphasized they worked closely with the Chamber of Commerce.
Anne Wilkins, representing the Chamber of Commerce, stated the cooperation between the two organizations is good.
In response to a question regarding the PEDC's relationship with the Pinellas County Industry Council, Mr. Knowlton indicated they work closely together, do not overlap and compliment
each other.
In response to a question, it was indicated they are making presentations to other cities and requesting additional funding from them as well. Written material regarding the council
was distributed to the Commission.
In response to questions regarding relocation of businesses within Pinellas County, they said their efforts in this regard had to do with expansions or when a company was considering
leaving the area. It was indicated the level of activity is increasing and there are alot of inquiries coming from Canada. Of the $541,000 budget, 92% of that comes from private
funding. It was requested that PEDC inform Clearwater of other cities' contributions.
The meeting recessed from 10:35 a.m. to 10:40 a.m.
Banking Services Agreement with Barnett Bank of Pinellas County for a period of three years commencing 10/1/91, for an estimated amount of $73,266 (AS)
Fourteen banks were invited to bid for Clearwater's consolidated banking business. Two banks responded, with Barnett Bank providing the lowest and most responsive and responsible bid
in accordance with specifications.
Barnett Bank has served as the City's primary operating bank for the past fifteen years. The City has been extremely pleased with the quality and timeliness of the service received.
Any problems which have arisen have been quickly and satisfactorily resolved. Barnett has proven they have the necessary resources to effectively meet the City's extensive needs.
The estimated monthly cost of $6,105.50 is approximately 4% more than the current fee structure for the estimated activity.
Dan Deignan, Assistant Administrative Services Director, indicated, most probably, only two responses to this bid were received because municipalities are not a high profit item for
banks. He stated the City has used Barnett for many years and that while there were some problems, they have been worked out.
Concerns were expressed regarding official bank ratings showing there being problems with Barnett Bank. This will be monitored.
A question was raised regarding the lock box service. Mr. Deignan indicated this is in Tampa and is used for the payment of utility bills. The utility bills are mailed to that address
and deposited in the bank that day. A question was raised regarding whether or not it would be reasonable to have all Barnett Bank branches as utility payment drop-off points.
In response to a question regarding whether or not the $73,000 a year was a set price, Mr. Deignan indicated that is the best estimate for the services provided for the year.
First Reading Ord. #5118-91 - allowing for refunding the 1983 Gas System Revenue Bonds (AS)
As a result of favorable market conditions, the City has been investigating the feasibility of refunding the 1983 Gas System Revenue Bonds to generate debt service savings for the system
resulting from current, lower interest rates.
Due to recent discussions regarding expansion of the gas system into Pasco County, staff proposes to use the savings together with funds remaining in the original construction fund,
for system expansion.
Costs of issuance together with estimated underwriters discount and bond insurance premium, have already been considered prior to determination of the projected savings referenced above.
With approval to proceed, the schedule calls for award of the sale of the bonds immediately following second reading of the ordinance on August 15th, with closing scheduled for on or
about September 4, 1991.
Dan Deignan indicated this procedure is analogous to refinancing a mortgage. He explained by refunding the bond issue, we will save debt service costs. There are two options regarding
how we would take that savings; one is to spread the savings equally throughout the life of the refunded bonds, the other is to structure it so that the savings can be placed at any
one time during the issue. Staff is recommending the savings be acquired during the first four years of the bond issue and this money be allocated to expansion of the gas system.
A question was raised regarding how this refunding would affect the Commission's ability to reconsider sale of the gas system. It was indicated that if the gas system were to be sold
prior to the bonds maturity, they would have to be defeased through the proceeds of that sale.
Res. #91-28 - Accepting a franchise (Safety Harbor Res. #91-21) for the purpose of furnishing natural gas within the City of Safety Harbor (GAS)
In 1991, the natural gas franchise with the City of Safety Harbor expires subject to annual renewal until a new franchise is executed. Subsequent negotiations have culminated in Safety
Harbor's execution of a new ten year non exclusive franchise with Clearwater Gas System, effective with the passage of Resolution #91-28 by the Clearwater City Commission.
A summary of the essential differences between the current franchise and the new franchise follows: Terms - the new is for a ten year period, the old was for thirty years; Consent
for sale - the new incorporates a right for Safety Harbor to consent to a sale of the gas system with the option to cancel the franchise agreement if consent is not granted; "Most Favored"
Clause - the new incorporates the right for Safety Harbor to receive any benefit negotiated with another franchisee which they judge to be more favorable; System Expansion - the agreement
provides for a minimum financially feasible expansion formula in determining whether to extend new service lines. The current City policy provides the option to expand services where
the payback period is seven years or less. This franchise agreement establishes a minimum four year payback period. This minimum payback period is more conservative than current policy
and more favorable to the Clearwater Gas System while giving Safety Harbor a reasonable assurance that service will be made available to residents; and Franchise Fee - Franchise fees
on gross receipts increases from the 3.5% in the old agreement to 6% in the new.
It was indicated this agreement contains many of the same terms as in the Dunedin Franchise Agreement.
In response to a question, it was indicated most of the previous gas franchises had a three percent franchise fee but all are going to six percent at this time.
Charles Hunsicker, Acting Gas Manager, indicated industrial customers are exempt in order to give them an incentive to purchase gas from the City.
One-year contract, 10/1/91-9/30/92, to purchase periodical subscriptions and serial standing orders to Ebsco Subscription Services at an estimated amount of $69,000 (LIB)
The City employs Ebsco Subscription Services to maintain the Library System's 600 periodical subscriptions and 275 annual and semi-annual reference serials. Approximately $69,000 in
expenditures are anticipated during FY91/92.
The service includes all interactions that normally transpire between publisher and subscriber; i.e. orders, renewals, payments, problem solving, and reports on subscription lapses
and other changes. Ebsco contacts individual
publishers and negotiates the best available prices. The City payments are distributed to many publishers, eliminating the necessity for the Library and Finance Departments to process
approximately 300 additional purchase orders and associated invoices which result from direct transactions with publishers.
Ebsco is included on the State of Florida approved vendor list.
It was indicated we have been using this service for five to six years and is on a state contract and therefore not bid in the traditional way. A question was raised regarding how
much of the cost was actually for the service and it was indicated the $69,000 price does include the three percent fee. It was requested that in the future, the service cost be separated
from the product cost.
Lease Agreement with Edward M. and Ursula M. Metallo, d/b/a Marina Restaurant, for a 5 year period, 10/1/91-9/30/96, for the total sum of $78,000 plus 10% of the annual gross sales revenues
exceeding $144,000 (MR)
Mr. and Mrs. Metallo have operated the Marina Restaurant since April 10, 1990. Their lease agreement with the City expires on September 30, 1991. They have made improvements to the
restaurant during the past year.
Under the terms of the lease agreement, the lessee will pay $15,600 per year at the rate of $1,300 per month, plus 10% of the annual gross revenues exceeding $144,000 for a five year
period. The lessee will be allowed to sell cigarettes and promotional items such as T-shirts.
Questions were raised regarding Section 3 not being clear as to what is being allowed to take place in the restaurant. This language will be clarified prior to Thursday night's meeting.
A question was also raised regarding whether or not it would be undue competition to allow the restaurant to sell T-shirts. Bill Held, Harbormaster, indicated that many establishments
are selling T-shirts that promote their business only and this is the type of T-shirts that will be sold at the restaurant.
Lease Agreement for marina building rooms #31 and #32 to Carter Communications, Inc., for a 5 year period, 8/1/91-7/31/96, for the total sum of $18,000 (MR)
Marina building rooms 31 and 32 have been vacant since January 1991. The rooms were bid out for rent by the City in February 1991, with no proposals received.
Recently, the City received three proposals for the rental of the rooms. Proposals were received by Carter Communications Inc., Mr. Larry R. Beard, CPA, and Dr. David Petrik, dentist.
All three proposals were reviewed with the Marine Advisory Board on the July 9, 1991. The Board recommended Carter Communications, Inc., doing business as a newspaper publisher (Beach
Views) for the vacant rooms.
Under the terms of the lease agreement, the lessee will pay $3,600 per year at the rate of $300 per month for a five year period.
It was reported the CPA withdrew his bid when he found that the marina was asking $300 a month for each room rather than $300 for both rooms. The dentist's proposal would have required
major renovations, including an air compressor being placed on top of the building. Therefore, Carter Communications was chosen as the best bid for the leasing of this space.
Three year contract for hydrogen sulfide control to Peroxidation System Inc., Orlando, FL, for the period 6/16/91-6/15/94, at an estimated 3 year total cost of $1,017,035 (PW)
It is essential to provide continuous hydrogen sulfide control for the sanitary sewer system since. The use of a hydrogen peroxide turnkey system for this purpose has proven to be
very successful and cost effective leading the City to restrict the bid specs to this chemical and feed arrangement.
The contract with Peroxidation Sytems would be for the third, fourth and fifth years of a five year contract which was originally approved for one year in 1989 and in 1990 for the second
year of the contract. The Water Pollution Control Division staff of Public Works believes this to be the most desirable form of contract for this service. Costs for succeeding years
will be adjusted according to the chemical marketing reporter index as specified in the bid.
A question was raised regarding whether or not signs indicating hazardous materials at locations where this material is stored was causing undue alarm. It was indicated the purpose
of the signs was to deter people from disturbing the material. Consensus of the Commission was to not change the signs at this time.
Ranking of prospective consulting engineers to prepare a Citywide Stormwater & Watershed Management Master Plan and authorize negotiations with the selected firms (PW)
The water quality issue has been brought close to home by the recent United States Environmental Protection Agency's National Pollution Discharge Elimination System (NPDES), Permit
Application Regulations for Stormwater Discharges. Hundreds of municipalities and private owners must now obtain permits for stormwater discharges that can be as small as construction
activities on a five acre site or runoff from a service station. Stormwater management programs must be developed to include both structural and non-structural best management practices
(BMP), to meet both flooding and water quality requirements. A comprehensive Stormwater and Watershed Management Master Plan will be necessary to describe conditions in Clearwater,
identify needs, list and prioritize Capital Improvement Projects to meet water quality and quantity needs, develop pollution-abatement programs of a non-structural nature, address the
EPA NPDES requirements, and form the overall strategy for a healthier Tampa Bay and Clearwater Harbor.
Bill Baker, Public Works Director, indicated permits are needed in order for the City of Clearwater to use its water system and a lot has been accomplished already in that we have our
financial element in place. EPA permitting will have some timeframes which will need to be met. It was indicated the plan would be coordinated with the County and surrounding municipalities.
In response to a question, it was indicated this particular contract would not be funded through the stormwater fee as it had already been included in the budget prior to the fee being
established.
Clearwater representative on PSTA - 1 appointment (CLK)
The term of one of the two City of Clearwater appointments to the PSTA Board of Directors expires 9/28/91. Mr. Donald Williams is the current appointee serving this term. There is
no statutory barrier for reappointment if the City should desire to do so. Terms on this board are for three years. Mayor Garvey is the other City representative on the Authority.
Questions were raised regarding whether or not there should be some limitation on the length of time people serve on this type of non-city board as a city representative. It was the
consensus of the Commission to establish some policy regarding this issue and that Mr. Williams should be informed that due to the Commission wishing to limit the time, this could be
his last appointment to this committee.
Public Hearing & First Reading Ord. #5107-91 - LDCTA - creating Div. 23A within Chapter 135, Code of Ordinances, establishing a new Research, Development and Office Park District (PLD)
The proposed new zoning district has been developed to accommodate less intensive manufacturing and research and development type uses than those permitted in the Limited Industrial
zoning district. Such a zoning district will provide greater flexibility in addressing the need for industrial development in the City of Clearwater.
Staff proposes using this district in cases such as the Gerald Rehm property on Lakeview Avenue and the proposed conversion of a portion of the Park Place development on Gulf-to-Bay
Boulevard from an office development to a research and development project. These sites are located in areas near residential neighborhoods and are therefore unsuitable for unrestricted
industrial development.
The permitted and conditional uses proposed for establishment in the Research, Development and Office Park (RD) District, will be significantly more compatible with residential, office
and light commercial development than many of those allowed in the Limited Industrial District. Consequently, once the new district is in place, the Commission will have greater flexibility
in balancing Clearwater's economic development and neighborhood preservation needs.
The following changes have been recommended by staff as a result of discussions with potential users of the proposed district, the Planning and Zoning Board and the Commission: 1)
Two permitted uses (in Section 135.1523) have been modified: a) "Business offices not principally dealing with the general public" has been changed to read: "Business and professional
offices other than medical offices and clinics." b) "Processing or compounding of drugs ...." has been revised to read "Processing, manufacturing or compounding of drugs ..."; 2) Three
proposed conditional use standards for manufacturing uses have been moved from that section to the Use Limitations section (Section 135.1525) so that these standards will apply to all
permitted and conditional uses, rather than just the manufacturing use. Clarification of what is meant by outdoor storage is also made. These changes are listed as follows: (6) No
operations or activities associated with the use shall be conducted outside any enclosed structures. (7) Any emissions into the atmosphere associated with any use shall be odorless
and colorless, and pose no risk to the health and safety of persons in the vicinity of the use. (8) No outdoor storage of any materials, products, or wastes shall occur, other than
occasional (not more than weekly) temporary (24 hours or less) storage of items received as or prepared for shipment; and 3) The proposed conditional use standard concerning limitation
in size of delivery vehicles has been deleted.
Jim Polatty, Planning and Development Director, indicated the lot sizes for the Park Place Development will be addressed through the amendments to their Development of Regional Impact
Statements. It was indicated that this amendment would take care of the concerns of the Rehm Development.
Concerns were raised that two acres is too small of a land area to establish this type of district. Concerns were also expressed that the minimum lot sizes were too small. Consensus
of the Commission was to change the minimum district size from two acres to four acres and to address the lot size issue after additional information could be provided. It was also
suggested that alternatives to addressing the Rehm Development be considered.
(Cont. from 7/18/91) Variance to Sign Regulations for property (Clearwater Collection) located at 21684 US19N, Clearwater Collection, Second Replat, Lots 2 & 3 (Clearwater Collection
Associates Ltd. SV91-13)(PLD)
The applicant is requesting revision to a Sign Variance granted by the Development Code Adjustment Board (DCAB) on October 11, 1990 so that the signs authorized at that meeting may
be permitted to remain after October 13, 1992.
There are presently two pole signs for the shopping center on US19. One pole sign is primarily for Silverburg Jewelry Company with a smaller signage for Home Style Buffet. The surface
area of this sign is approximately 56 square feet. The sign survey did not cite this sign as being in noncompliance. The second pole sign on US19 is the sign in question. It is shown
as having a sign surface area of 128 square feet and a height of 30 feet. The applicants content that being limited to the signage size allowed in the Commercial Planned Development
(CPD) zoning (64 sq.ft.) places them at a disadvantage with other shopping centers along US19. It appears that in granting the previous variance for the size of property identification
signage the DCAB utilized CC and CH zoning signage criteria. In considering the actual use of the property and the general intent of the Sign Regulations, signage based on the requirements
for CC and CH Districts appears appropriate for this site. ( The Commission has directed the Planning and Development Department to prepare draft amendments to the Sign Regulations
to address cases like this.) However, this still leaves the questions of height of the existing pole sign, and the second pole sign on US19 for Silverburg Jewelry Company.
The present signage does not appear to be excessive for the given site conditions, and the limiting of the center to two pole signs rather than one for each of the four lots is in keeping
with the intent of the Sign Regulation. Two signs also appear appropriate as there are two entrances in to the center from US19. If the Commission agrees to permit the existing sign
to continue, then it should be specified that such signage is for the whole center, and that additional pole or ground signs along US19 will not be permitted for new or future tenants.
According to Sec. 134.012(1)d., a pole sign which is permitted in a sign area in excess of 150 sq.ft. shall be permitted a height of twenty-four feet. Due to the pole sign in question
being located in a depression and having its elevation of 30 feet measured from the ground surface at the base of the sign which is roughly five feet below the crown of US19 and three
feet below the grade of the Clearwater Collection parking lot, the existing sign does not appear oversized or too high for the area. The additional height of this sign is due to the
man made topography to accommodate the drainage lagoon for the shopping center.
To simplify review of future signage for the Clearwater Collection site, it is proposed that a variance be granted for the site specifying that the development is authorized two pole
signs on US19 as currently exist. Any alteration or replacement of these signs, other than face changes, shall require a variance; and all internal signage shall be in accordance with
the requirements of Sec. 134.010(2) except that no signage on any wall may exceed 1.5 sq.ft. per lineal foot of wall.
A question was raised regarding whether or not this issue would have to be readdressed for Home Depot which is being constructed in the center at this time. It was indicated that the
variances for Home Depot would involve wall signs, not pole signs.
Revalidation of Certified Site Plan for Clearwater 19 Industrial Park located on the E side of US19 approx. 1,300' N of Drew St., Sec. 8-29-16, M&B 32.02 (Kunnen)(PLD)
The owner is requesting a revalidation period of three years. Previously, this site has been the subject of numerous site plan amendments and revalidations dating back to September
16, 1982. Staff suggests that due to numerous extensions granted that this revalidation period be eighteen months.
Final Commission action on this original Final Site Plan for this property requires that the Commission approve all amendments/revalidation to the site plan.
This property is the subject of property condemnation for highway improvements by the FDOT. However, this should have no bearing on the decision by the Commission for the revalidation
of the site plan.
A question was raised regarding whether or not this was the time to request changes in the site plan. It was indicated that at this time, there is only one building left to build and
that is why the recommendation is to grant an eighteen month revalidation as opposed to the three year revalidation requested. It was also indicated that if the improvement to US19
are done, one of the buildings would be lost.
Proposed amendment of the Lot Clearing Ordinance (PLD)
This ordinance has been prepared in order to streamline the process for lot clearing violations. Staff identifies the following problems with the existing process: 1) all lot clearing
voilations are required to be forwarded to the Municipal Code Enforcement Board (MCEB), whether the property owner contests the violation or not, 2) the process takes too long; all lot
clearing violations must be posted a minimum of 21 days before the MCEB hearing, 3) inoperative vehicles are allowed to be stored on residential properties for up to 30 days, and 4)
administrative costs normally exceed the $150.00 fee charged.
This ordinance would address these problems in the following manner: 1) The MCEB would hear only those cases in which property owners elect to appeal the
otice of violation; 2) The minimum time required for posting of lot clearing violations would be reduced from 21 days to 10 days. Within the 10 day period, the property owner would
be required to either clear the property or file a notice of appeal to the MCEB. If the owner fails to do either, then the City Manager may authorize entry upon property and take action
necessary to remedy the violation at the owner's expense. In addition, the owner would be responsible for the payment of an administrative fee to offset staff costs for inspections,
notices, case preparation, communications, photographs, billings, and certified mailings; 3) The 30 day grace period for storage of inoperative vehicles on residential properties would
be eliminated; and 4) The administrative costs have been increased to $200.00 reflecting present actual costs.
John Richter, Code Enforcement Administrator, reviewed the current lot clearing process and indicated this ordinance is an attempt to streamline that process.
A question was raised regarding a code enforcement problem with the fireworks establishment on Gulf-to-Bay. The City Clerk reported that they have requested a rehearing of their code
enforcement board case.
A question was raised regarding how it is determined that a vehicle is abandoned. Mr. Richter indicated that if there is no current tag or if the vehicle is inoperable, it is considered
abandoned. He reported the ordinance is including an increase in the administrative fee.
Other City Attorney Items
The City Attorney reported that an official decision from the Ethics Commission regarding what constitutes a gift has been received. He stated they do say official travel is not a
gift but they have added a disclaimer at the end.
Second Reading Ordinances
Ordinance #5109-91 - Annexation for property located in Blackburn Sub., parts of Lots 8 & 9 (Baker, et al. A91-02)
Jim Polatty, Planning and Development Director, reported this is the annexation of the Celebration Station site. He indicated they have requested an opinion from the Department of
Community Affairs regarding the land being reduced to under three acres in order to not cross the threshold which would require state review.
Verbal Reports
1992 Legislative Package
Elizabeth Deptula, Assistant City Manager, indicated this is a very preliminary draft and it was hoped to finalize this and get it to the legislative delegation in time for them to
be able to review it prior to beginning their session.
A question was raised regarding under new issues, a item being added called "Qualification of Appointees". Consensus of the Commission was this was not within the Commission's jurisdiction
and it was requested this item be removed.
A question was raised regarding an item regarding a recent attorney general's opinion that candidates forums were under the Sunshine Law and therefore, minutes must be taken. The City
Clerk would like to have an amendment proposed which would exempt candidates forums from this requirement. Consensus of the Commission was to change that item to propose an amendment
regarding this issue.
Concerns were expressed that the item regarding supporting legislation for alternative fuels, particularly compressed natural gas, should be to "encourage" legislation. Consensus of
the Commission was to do so.
Ms. Deptula indicated that Jim Massie, the City's lobbyist, was requesting input regarding the Kenton Bill. Consensus of the Commission was to add this.
A question was raised regarding a proposal for front and back license plates. It was indicated that it was felt there was very little support for this.
A question was also raised regarding legislation prohibiting a person acting as a church and giving themselves a non-profit tax exempt status.
Ms. Deptula indicated she would make the changes requested by the Commission and bring the package to the Commission for formal action at their August 15, 1991 meeting.
The City Manager reported the Phillies have requested that monies budgeted for roof repairs at Jack Russell Stadium be provided to them and they would then build an entirely new clubhouse.
Staff is negotiating this. A concern was raised regarding maintenance of the field and it was requested that this be checked.
The City Attorney reported he had sent out a memo regarding the status of the Pope lawsuit.
Other Commission Action
Mayor Garvey questioned whether or not the Commission wished to support the Southwest Florida Water Management District in its proposal for year round water restrictions. It was reported
the City would be considering an ordinance of its own. It was requested this wait until SWFWMD has made its decisions on its restrictions. The Mayor questioned whether or not an additional
report would be received as a follow up to the interim report on purchasing and it was indicated this would be done. She reported that in talking to St. Petersburg, regarding the Florida
Orchestra, that while they have not made a cash contribution, they have forgiven $25,000 in debt for the orchestra. The Mayor proposed that a task
force be formed to study possible uses of the Maas Brothers site. This task force would gather information and input from the community. There was no general consensus at this time.
Commissioner Fitzgerald questioned why there were no signs indicating that the Countryside Boulevard widening project was a Penny for Pinellas project. Staff will investigate.
The meeting adjourned at 1:05 p.m.