Loading...
03/02/1992 CITY COMMISSION WORK SESSION March 2, 1992 The City Commission of the City of Clearwater met at City Hall with the following members present: Rita Garvey Mayor/Commissioner Sue A. 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 The Mayor called the meeting to order and the following items were discussed. Four Service Pins were awarded. Dries Vandenburg, Public Works Department, was recognized for 35 years of service and presented with a retirement gift. Interfund Property Swap of 9.99 acres currently owned by Solid Waste Fund known as "Airpark School Board Site" for 9.52 acres currently owned by Garage Fund known as "Campbell Property"; Solid Waste Fund to assume the remaining $192,000 debt on the Campbell Property; authorize capital contribution of $1,646 from Solid Waste to Garage to complete transfer at cost in lieu of requiring any current interfund cash transfer (AS) In 1984 the Garage Fund purchased a 9.52 acre parcel, known as "Campbell Property", which was intended for use as a site for the "new" City garage. When the property on Grand Avenue became available at an attractive price, the City Commission elected to locate the garage there instead. In 1989, the Sanitation Fund purchased 9.99 acres, known as the "Airpark School Board Site", which was intended as a site for constructing a new Solid Waste and recycling complex. Environmental concerns have required us to seek alternate locations for the Solid Waste complex, the most attractive of which seems to be the vacant Campbell Property site owned by the Garage Fund. Even though the City will retain title to both parcels, it is important that ownership of the Campbell property be officially transferred to the Solid Waste Fund to ensure proper Enterprise Fund accounting for the new Solid Waste complex. Since Solid Waste does not have sufficient cash to buy the Campbell property outright, the land swap is proposed. The City Manager stated the Airport Authority has asked for the "school board" property, and this action will not preclude considering their request at a later date. In response to questions, he stated whether the Solid Waste Division needs all of the Campbell property would be determined after the recycling test program period of six months to one year. Contract for burglar and fire alarm service and monitoring for 1 year to Maire Company, Clearwater, FL, at an est. cost of $13,140 with an option to renew for an additional year at the same pricing (GS) Bids were solicited, and the Maire Company was the only response to the bid request. National Guardian Security Services Corp. of Palm Harbor submitted a letter protesting the bid award. However, since they did not bid, it is not considered a formal bid protest. A survey of all alarm locations was conducted to determine if renewal of the contract was necessary. Based on the survey, reasons for maintaining the services are: previous burglaries, fire code requirements, the presence of money and/or costly equipment, etc. The Maire Company currently has its alarm systems installed in 30 City facilities. They are familiar with the City's buildings and have provided excellent customized service to each location. The estimated annual charge represents the fee for the servicing and monitoring of burglar and fire alarms. A concern was expressed regarding not considering a protest from a non-bidder a formal protest. It was stated it is difficult to bid against someone already in as a new company would have to invest approximately $250,000 to replace the existing equipment. Contract for roof replacement at Fire Station #4 located at 1700 N Belcher Rd., to The Dean Company, Clearwater, FL, for $19,081 (GS) The City Commission at its August 15, 1991, meeting awarded a contract to Professional Services Industries (PSI) for roof engineering and design consultant services for seven City facilities including Fire Station No. 4. Bids were solicited and received for the roof replacement at Fire Station No. 4., 1700 N. Belcher Road. PSI and City staff reviewed the bids submitted and qualifications of the contractors. PSI recommends and City staff concurs that the bid be awarded to The Dean Company. In response to a question regarding the age of the fire station, it was stated it is at least 15 years old. Concern was expressed regarding an indication from someone at the Lawn Bowling Club that their roof will not be done until September although the contract has been awarded. Staff will investigate. Purchase of five front-end loading sanitation vehicles to Crane Carrier Co., Tulsa, OK, for $656,935; financing to be provided under City's master least-purchase agreement with AT&T Credit Corp. (GS) Bids were solicited and three proposals were received: Solid Waste and Recovery (ABC) -$590,280, Metro-Tech Equipment Corp. (Leach) - $646,150, and Crane Carrier Company (CCC) -$656,935. In evaluating the bids, the following criteria were used in addition to deviations from specifications and price: 1) quality of supplies offered; 2) ability, capacity, and skill of the bidder to perform the contract or provide the supplies or services required; 3) sufficiency of the bidder's financial resources and the effect on his ability to perform the contract or provide the supplies or services, and 4) ability of the bidder to provide future maintenance and service where such maintenance and service is essential. These replacement purchases were approved by the City Commission - two units in 1989/90, two units in 1990/91, and one unit in 1991/92, and are listed on the approved Replacement of Motorized Equipment listings. In response to a question, Floyd Carter, General Services Manager, stated there are 13 of these vehicles currently on hand. Their life expectancy is five to eight years. Purchase of 20 Plastic Shower Columns for Clearwater Beach public showers from Rotocast Plastic Products, Inc., for $20,380 (PR) The City provides public outdoor showers at 16 locations on Clearwater Beach. The existing showers consist of a concrete pole with one shower head per pole. They do not provide handicapped accessibility, and do not meet the needs of beach users. Since 13 of the locations are seaward of the Coastal Construction Control Line, Department of Natural Resources (DNR) permits were required for the shower renovations. These permits have been secured. The plastic column designs appear to be the best option since the new "space age" polymer is guaranteed no to chip, crack, fade, or break for ten years. They are lightweight, easy to maintain, attractive and easy to work with. Other materials considered included stainless steel, concrete, wood and block. Bids were solicited from fourteen vendors with seven responses received, six of which were no bid and one acceptable bid. A concern was raised regarding a turtle protection plan being needed in order for the City to be able to resume beach cleaning. Ream Wilson, Parks and Recreation Director, indicated a plan is being developed and we are currently operating under temporary permits. In response to questions regarding the shower heads, Mr. Wilson stated extra units are being ordered to have on hand in case of breakage, and the new units will be easier to maintain than the existing ones. He stated the showers will be situated closer to parking, and the handicap accessible showers will be located at Mandalay, Pier 60 and South Beach Pavilion. Presentation regarding Highland Avenue Widening Project from HDR, Inc. - Retention requirements (WSO)(PW) The Southwest Florida Water Management District regulations require that storm water detention and treatment be accomplished for all impervious areas added in any road widening project. Further, the regulations now require that where any existing storm water mixes or co-mingles with storm water runoff from new pavement, all of the storm water must receive treatment. Otherwise, the project design must intercept the existing water and have this water bypass the storm water treatment areas for the new pavement and thereby not co-mingle with the new storm water runoff. At the Highland Avenue widening project the co-mingle regulation creates difficulties because large areas east of the corridor drain to and across Highland Avenue toward various portions of Stevenson's Creek. This means that in the construction of the project the City will either have to intercept the off-site storm water or provide substantial additional treatment for this off-site water. If the City chooses to intercept the water, then two separate storm collection systems will need to be constructed. If the City chooses the other alternative to treat all or a significant portion of the storm water from the drainage areas adjacent to the Highland corridor, then much larger treatment areas must be acquired for the construction of treatment facilities. Kirk Stoehl, of HDR Engineering, stated Highland is being widened from Gulf-to-Bay Boulevard to Union Street. This is an important arterial roadway, as other streets are not continuous north/south roadways. It will bring about improved safety on Highland Avenue, pull traffic from residential streets and assist future growth. Mr. Stoehl stated this is a good opportunity to rebuild older utilities and reduce flooding conditions of low areas in the corridor. To accommodate the storm water treatment requirement before discharge into the natural waterway, pollutants such as tire dust, grease, oils and sediments must be removed. This is done by constructing wet and/or dry retention ponds. A dry pond is where the water table and soils are such that the pond is dry except right after a storm event; the water percolates into the soil, and in between storms you have a mowed grassy area. A wet pond would have standing water most of the time, and uses specially selected plants in the water that actually cleanse it as the water passes through the pond, downstream into Stevenson Creek. Mr. Stoehl reviewed the criteria used in establishing the best possible locations for the storm water treatment ponds. He stated because of the rolling terrain, the project area divides up into three distinct drainage basins. He explained a treatment technique to resolve the co-mingling issue which is satisfactory to Pinellas County, who is acting on behalf of SWFWMD. Mr. Stoehl reviewed the pond site alternatives for the south, middle, and north basins, stating the recommended alternatives minimize costs using vacant and city-owned property wherever possible. The City Manager indicated that at one point it looked as though neighborhoods would have to be purchased in order to accommodate this requirement; but through negotiations, land needed has been reduced to an absolute minimum. South basin: Gulf-to-Bay (SR 60) to Palmetto Street - a pond on the Maple Street park site would allow the water to flow from Stevenson Creek in pipes with a stop at Maple Street preventing a lot of water from flowing to the low spot, which would improve the flooding conditions in this corridor. Glenwood Street property is city owned, but with the high water table and terrain, a depth of ponding could not be developed, and there would not be much capacity out of it. The recommended alternative is the expansion of the golf course pond, which would not really affect the play of the hole. The water would be piped straight down into Stevenson's Creek. Concerns were expressed regarding the impact this may have on the golf course. Discussion ensued regarding whether there might a better alternative. In response to a question, it was stated the driving range would not be suitable for co-mingling, and it would impact the golf course tremendously. In response to a question, Mr. Stoehl stated this is the best site for engineering and cost efficient purposes. Consensus was that more options regarding use of the golf course be explored, without destroying the use of the course. A concern was expressed that the effect on the homeowners in the area be considered, stating that neighborhood communities are an important factor, and the park is used by the neighborhood. Middle basin: Palmetto Street to Greenlea Street - the Overlea Street pond site, with minor expansion, modifications and added vegetation, could handle all the treatment needed for the middle basin. A concern was expressed regarding the effect on the adjacent properties of the added vegetation, as the pond is currently well manicured. Mr. Stoehl stated Flagler Drive right-of-way could be developed into a series of ponds, but it would have a dramatically higher cost than the other alternatives. He stated the five-way intersection will be made safer when Highland Avenue is rebuilt. North basin: Greenlea Street to Union Street - the vacant site on Kings Highway does not require removal of large trees or the purchase of homes, which would be required for use of sites east and west on Highland Avenue. In response to questions, Mr. Stoehl stated the ponds serve two purposes -treatment and attenuation; the attenuation intended to control the flow to pre-development conditions. He stated they are ready for the permitting process once a decision is made. Consensus was for staff to pursue attaining the home for sale regarding the Overlea Street pond site in the middle basin, and the vacant residential site in the north basin. For the south basin, it was requested greater use of the golf course be investigated in order to eliminate the need for the Maple Street park site. Contract for East Plant Outfall Project to Inter-Bay Marine Construction Co., Largo, FL, for $660,305 (PW) The existing East Plant Outfall line is a 36-inch concrete pipe that extends approximately 700 linear feet from the Old Tampa Bay shoreline. The discharge elevation is at approximately elevation minus 2.5 feet. During low tide the existing outfall line and headwall are visible. The new line will be 48-inch ductile iron boltless restrained joint outfall pipe extending approximately 1,400 linear feet from the Old Tampa Bay shoreline. The pipe will be installed with two feet of cover and, at the end of the pipe, the discharge elevation will be eight feet below mean sea level. In response to a question, it was stated the eight feet below sea level is required to address environmental concerns regarding discharge. Contract for Marshall Street South Interceptor Sewer Replacement and Reclaimed Water Supply to Kamminga and Roodvoets, Inc., Tampa, FL, for $2,764,670 (PW) The purpose of this contract is to provide for the construction of Phase 1 of the Marshall Street South Interceptor Sewer Replacement and the construction of a portion of the primary distribution system for the water reuse utility. The existing Marshall Street plant is approximately 40 to 60 years old and needs replacement due to its deteriorated condition and being undersized to accommodate present flow demands. The entire interceptor is proposed to be replaced or restored in three phases. Installation of the system for water reuse provides an added benefit in that installation at this time will create the immediate availability of reuse water to the Clearwater Country Club. The project includes a temporary pumping facility at the Marshall Street plant for this purpose. The work has been coordinated with the Country Club and they have plans for the installation of ponds on the golf course to store the reuse water for irrigation purposes. The Country Club has sought this ability for many years. The design was prepared by Camp Dresser & McKee. A pre-bid conference was held on December 29, 1991 and five bids were received on February 12, 1992. The low bidder was Kamminga and Roodvoets, Inc. Approval of the bid award will allow the project to begin in April 1992 and will be completed by February, 1993. The golf course will remain open for play during construction. The City Manager requested some direction regarding the reclaimed water portion of this project. He indicated he feels it is time to consider charging for reclaimed water if the City is going to install a reclaimed water utility in the future. Tom Burke, of Camp, Dresser & McKee, indicated it was economical to include the reclaimed water line in this bid, and this line will be needed if the decision is made to provide reclaimed water to the Beach. The City Manager indicated he will request the development of reclaimed water rates to be implemented in the future. In response to questions, the City Manager indicated the planning is not far enough along to make decisions regarding making the use of reclaimed water mandatory. C.O. #5 for Stevenson's Creek Channel Improvements Phase I to Kimmins Contracting Corp., Tampa, FL increasing the amount by $55,565 for a new total of $1,339,330,42 PW Additional quantities are needed for concrete and sod restoration for areas including Cleveland Street, Clearwater Country Club and Palmetto Street. New contract items 41-45 have been added to cover additional costs. Item 41 is for 65 cubic yards of miscellaneous reinforced concrete needed to accommodate necessary engineering field changes. Items 42-45 are for asphaltic concrete necessary to meet permit requirements for the restoration of Cleveland Street. The original design based on the initial permit issue by the FDOT included limerock base and sub-base materials. The revised permit issued received from the FDOT in early February requires that full depth asphaltic concrete be used for both the base and sub-base and that a special FDOT asphaltic concrete mix for skid resistance be used for the surface course. In response to questions regarding Mr. Keene's seawall. Mr. Baker, Public Works Director stated it will be repaired by Kimmins Contractor to Mr. Keene's satisfaction. A question was raised regarding the use of 14" asphalt, and Mr. Baker stated Florida Department of Transportation is requiring full depth asphalt. The City Manager questioned when Cleveland Street will be complete. Beach traffic operations - examine and consider various suggestions and give direction as to implementation of any Commission choices regarding alternatives (PW) In September, 1990, the Commission instructed staff to explore means by which the specially devised Police plan for Beach Traffic Control could be effected by electronic equipment and eliminate Police Aide expenses in future years. This task was assigned to Wade-Trim, Inc., Traffic Engineering Consultants, who had recently been hired to perform traffic engineering designs. Wade-Trim interfaced with the Commission appointed Clearwater Beach Blue Ribbon Task Force in this research. Wade-Trim determined an electronically operated system which would operate with significantly less Police Aides was unavailable as a practical matter, but did determine the Police Aide traffic scheme could be effected with fewer Police Aides by using a one-way traffic plan on the beach. For this reason, and because a one-way traffic plan was believed to be compatible with certain Beach Task Force goals, the Wade-Trim report essentially became a study of three alternate plans for a one-way traffic plan for Clearwater Beach. Peter Yauch, Traffic Engineer, reviewed the current Police Aide program which uses 16 to 14 people depending on the traffic. He reported the Clearwater Beach Blue Ribbon Task Force recommends creating a "resort zone" with a 15 mph speed limit on S. Gulfview and converting Coronado to one-way south and Hamden to one-way north. Wade-Trim developed three options, one, very similar to the Task Forces's recommendation and the other two converting S. Gulfview to a one-way street. It was indicated the Task Force's recommendation to create a resort zone on S. Gulfview could be accomplished without converting the other streets to one-way. Discussion ensued regarding the impact of converting Coronado and Hamden to one-way streets with concern being expressed that those streets would not be able to handle the shifted traffic. The construction of sidewalks on Hamden and Coronado was also discussed with it being indicated there is not enough space for this. Mr. Yauch indicated that if the decision is made to establish the resort zone on S. Gulfview, the one-way pair of Hamden and Coronado would be the best alternative, however leaving them as two way streets would work. Further discussion ensued regarding the impact of implementing these changes. In response to a question it was indicated the one-way plan would reduce the number of Police Aides to 14; if the sidewalk on the west side of S. Gulfview is removed that number could be reduced to 10. Discussion ensued regarding the proposal to reduce the speed limit to 15 mph on S.Gulfview with concerns being expressed that it would be difficult to enforce and may be more appropriate on one of the back streets. Mr. Yauch indicated he is recommending only addressing the south beach at this time. He also indicated additional and better guide signing is needed. A request was made for statistics re the accident rate on the south beach. Waiver of Lawn Meter Removal Fee for 90 days retroactive to 2/1/92 (PW) Ordinance 5162-91, approved in January 1992, increased water and sewer rates, including lawn water rates. Also included was an increase in the cost of lawn meter removal. Many customers were highly upset with the rate increase and elected to have their lawn meter removed. They became more angry when they discovered the removal rate had increased. This has created a very difficult time for Utility Customer Support Division personnel. It is recommended a 90 day grace period be granted in which a customer could have their lawn meter removed at no cost. As long as the request for removal was made within the 90 day period the customer would not be charged, though it may take staff longer to schedule removal. The customer would, however, be responsible for the increase in the water use charges. Customers who have already paid to have their meter removed will have their account credited. In response to questions, it was stated this would give people a chance to go to a smaller meter as the rate increases with meter size. It was stated this would result in refunds to some customers. The meeting recessed from 12:13 to 12:45 p.m. Consider various alternatives and rate structures for parking on Clearwater Beach and the elimination of the subsidy from the Parking Fund to the Bridge Fund effective 10/1/91 (CM) The City currently has 2,436 parking spaces on Clearwater Beach, of which 1,739 are 50 cents per hour metered spaces, 447 are 20 cents/30 cents per hour metered spaces and 250 are cashier spaces at 75 cents per hour. Various options and recommendations are suggested for consideration: 1) Clearwater Beach Lots - Attendant compared to metered parking and hourly rate considerations; 2) Other Clearwater Beach meters - Increase rates to 50 cents per hour; and 3) Clearwater Pass Bridge Subsidy - Discontinue the annual subsidy in the current fiscal year (effective 10/1/91). Regarding the Pier 60 Lot, South Gulfview and Rockaway Lots, Pier 60 (250 spaces) was converted to attendant parking in April, 1990 and the hourly fees were increased from 50 to 75 cents per hour. The City currently has a contract with Republic Parking Systems to operate the Pier 60 lot as attendant parking 18 hours a day, seven days a week. The Police Department has requested the Pier 60 Lot remain open as attendant parking after 7 p.m. Three options for these lots are: 1) Convert these lots to metered parking and change the rates to 75 cents per hour for all lots. (Pier 60 would remain flat fee attendant parking at night); 2) Convert these lots to attendant parking with a rate of $1 per hour; and 3) Convert the lots to either metered or attendant parking at $1 per hour and allow some sort of City resident parking permit/pass. Regarding marina parking, parking permits currently sell for 50 cents per half day, $1 per day, $10 per month and $100 per year for the Marina and Civic Center lots. These rates have not been increased since 1983 and it is recommended these fees be increased to $1 per half day, $2 per day, $15 per month and $120 per year. Parking passes/permits issued under option 3 above would not be valid in the Marina or Civic Center lots. Regarding other Clearwater Beach meters, it is recommended that current meters set at either 20 or 30 cents per hour be increased to 50 cents per hour. These meters are located primarily on street right-of-ways and small parking lots not directly adjacent to the beach. Regarding the Clearwater Pass Bridge Subsidy, the City collects the money from the 662 parking meters on the lots at the County owned Sand Key Park. Through its interlocal agreement with Pinellas County, the City remits 40% of the revenues to the County, retaining 60% for the City. During fiscal 88/89 the Commission approved the transfer of the City's share of the Sand Key Lot revenues to the Bridge Fund to enable timely defeasance of the outstanding Bridge Revenue Bonds and the elimination of the Bridge toll concurrent with the opening of the new federal/state funded bridge. Recent analysis of the Bridge Fund operating results by Dan Deignan, Finance Director, indicates the actual results of operation of the Bridge Fund have exceeded his earlier projections allowing earlier than originally anticipated defeasance of the Bonds. The subsidy from the Parking Fund is no longer needed to liquidate the debt. Elizabeth Deptula, Assistant City Manager, reported the parking fund made money from an operating point of view but due to Commission authorized transfers the Parking Fund is in a negative cash position. Discussion ensued regarding parking revenues subsidizing other programs. It was stated the parking funds are not dedicated to any expenditure other than paying off the bonds. Nothing prohibits transfers of the revenues not needed for that purpose to other programs at the discretion of the Commission. The City Manager reported rate increases would be needed whether the transfers had taken place or not. He stated a decision also needs to be made regarding whether to continue attendant parking or to go back to all meters. Discussion ensued regarding metered vs. attendant parking. Some opinions expressed were that although attendant parking is more expensive it is more convenient for the citizens. Others felt that attendant parking would be difficult at the times when the lots empty all at once, such as during a thunderstorm. It was stated attendant parking helps alleviate the problem of people cruising through the lots. Questions were raised regarding redesigning the lots and possibly making the spaces 90 degree as opposed to angle parking. It was stated this will be investigated when the lot needs to be resurfaced. In response to a question it was indicated amending the rates in other facilities was not considered at this time. Discussion returned to attendant vs. metered parking. It was felt it would be difficult to have lots attended at some times and metered at others. It was stated attendant parking would allow the use of resident passes and there would be not parking tickets issued. It was felt the major disadvantage would be when everyone wants to leave the lot at the same time. Consensus was for Pier 60 to remain and S. Gulfview be converted to attendant parking with $1.00/hr. fee; fees for all other lots be increased to $.75/hr.; all other meters be increased to $.50/hr; increase the Marina fees as recommended and that provision for annual and semi-annual passes be made for residents. It was indicated it will take several months to have the complete program in place. It was stated all redesign of the parking lots will be in accordance to City Code. Questions were raised regarding whether or not the attendants would be contract or city employees. Consensus was for this to be decided at a later date as it will be several months before attendant parking can be fully implemented. Request for Qualification for the East End Project (CM) The Request for Qualification (RFQ) for the East End Project represents a significant benchmark in the downtown revitalization process. Some years ago, City officials raised the prospect of using city owned property at the Annex site for development purposes. Over the past two years, staff has explored, analyzed and refined this idea. In 1990, the CRA made the decision to commission a market assessment of downtown by Hunter Interests Inc. of Annapolis, Maryland. In November, 1990, the Downtown Market Assessment was completed. This impartial study concluded that a mixed use project of 200,000 to 250,000 square feet would be successful in the downtown. The Market Assessment confirmed earlier demographic information. In January, 1991, staff began to assemble land in and around the Annex property already owned by the City. The objective was to secure more regular boundaries and to have access to Court Street. The land parcel was expanded from approximately 15 acres to 20 acres. With the acquisition of the remaining parcels which will form a corridor to Court Street, land holdings will reach 25 acres. The idea behind the RFQ is to generate interest in a "catalyst" project. A project of this nature has the potential of stimulating other development not only on the east end of the downtown but in the core and the western perimeter of the area. The project would be modest in size but, more effective in stimulating downtown growth than piecemeal activities that focus on vacant stores. National retailers have demonstrated a preference for being located in proximity to other retailers in an environment that has amenities and will attract people with a desirable product mix. There is no need for the Commission to endorse or commit to anything other than a solicitation of qualifications and later proposals and concepts. the CRA, acting as agent for the City, will reserve the right to accept or reject any and all proposals, either in whole or in part with or without cause or cancel the RFQ. Clearly, no obligations for acceptance are inherent in the process. The redevelopment goals contained in the RFQ are designed solely to solicit interest. There is no promise of subsidy or inducement. Instead, there is an emphasis on innovative planning and financial strategies and techniques. In response to a question, the City Manager stated the land is owned by the City with the CRA (Community Redevelopment Agency) acting as the City's agent. They act as promoter of the property and will spend CRA funds to bring forth developers. Concern was expressed about plans including a new City Hall. The City Manager stated every available option would be presented prior to a decision for development of the property. Discussion ensued regarding the need to acquire additional property, and the cost of the property. It is believed purchases were made at fair market value. A concern was expressed that it may be more feasible to wait two to three years. The City Manager stated the retail market is looking for good downtown properties. It will only cost a few hundred dollars to proceed with the RFQ (request for qualification), and the CRA has already spent $50,000 in advertising. He stated if the responses are unsatisfactory, the City is under no pressure to continue the process. Letter of Support for the CHA purchase of the Hamptons located at 1099 McMullen-Booth Road (PLD) The Clearwater Housing Authority is attempting to purchase the referenced property as a cost effective way to increase the number of public housing units in Clearwater. Fifty-five very low income units are proposed. They propose that an existing Housing Authority affiliated private non-profit entity own and manage the facility after purchase. The letter of support mandates no legally binding financial commitments at this time. The Housing Authority will possibly need a guarantee of the bond or mortgage by the City to finance the acquisition of this property. The waiver of payment in lieu of taxes for the first five years is also another possible request to be presented at a later date. Concern was expressed that the Hamptons is a luxury apartment complex, and it was questioned whether it is appropriate for low income housing. It was stated it would be more cost efficient to purchase this than build. In response to a question, it was stated bids will be accepted until March 6th, and the top three bidders will bid again. RTC (Resolution Trust Corp.) gives preference to non-profit organizations. If the CHA bid is chosen, there will be further negotiations with RTC. Concerns were expressed regarding the current tenants, and it was indicated they would be allowed to remain. Ms. Vincent stated a City guarantee would bring higher bond rates and a tax break. She stated she would update the Commission at the first Commission meeting in April. Clearwater Bombers' Request for $20,000 funding (CM) Staff recommends the funds be drawn from the General Fund Surplus should the City Commission approve the request. It was also stated the Bomber's may ask the City for a tarpaulin. Public Hearing & First Reading Ord. #5181-92 - Proposed Comprehensive Text Plan Amendments A-G (PLD) Several text amendments to the Comprehensive Plan are needed to reflect changes which have occurred over the past year. First, increased development densities on Clearwater Beach have been recommended for consideration as an incentive for redevelopment in accordance with FEMA and state and local standards by the Clearwater Beach Blue Ribbon Task Force. Second, the Downtown Development Plan has been moved up in schedule due to recent, unforeseen property acquisitions; this necessitates adjusting several project schedules within the Plan, as well as making some amendments associated with the Downtown Development District Comprehensive Plan classification. Third, clarification of the intent behind Policy 19.1.1 (relating to the Coastal Construction Control Line) has been developed by staff. Fourth, adjustments to the Capital Improvements Element are necessary to reflect the current City Capital Improvement Program. Concern was raised re our policy for transfer of development rights landward of the CCCL not being in compliance with PPC's. The Planning and Development Director will clarify. Alcoholic Beverage Separation Distance Variance for property (PharMor) located at 1200 S. Missouri Avenue, Store #200, Sunshine Mall, Sec. 15-29-15, M&B 34.01 and Sec. 22-29-15, M&Bs 21.01, 21.02 & 21.12 (Taylor/Fusco Corp. AB 92-06) PLD The applicant is opening a discount drug store at the south end of Sunshine Mall and, as in other PharMor stores, wishes to sell beer and wine as a convenience to the customers. The applicant has been approved for a conditional use for operation of a liquor store 139 feet north of the drugstore. There are no other package sales establishments within the mall. There are three restaurants in the mall which serve alcoholic beverages on premise. The applicant's drug store is within 45 feet of Belleair Elementary School grounds, and requires a variance to the separation requirement of 300 feet. The school is separated from the mall by two six foot fences. Neither the police department nor other staff have made any objections to the request. The Planning and Zoning Board granted a conditional use permit for package beer and wine sales. A question was raised whether conditions could be imposed regarding sales of refrigerated alcoholic beverages. The City Attorney stated it would have to be a citywide imposition. Other factors, including to whom it should apply, grandfathering, and a time frame for compliance need to be investigated. An objective and purpose would be need; the condition could not be placed only on a particular property. The concept would be adopted in an ordinance, not controlled by conditional use requests. In response to a question regarding regulating consumption on rights of way, in cars, etc., the City Attorney stated it would be applicable to all. (Cont. from 2/20/92) Second Reading, Ord. #5178-92 - Amending Chi Chi Rodriguez Youth Foundation agreement - authorizing the City to incur contingent liabilities of an amount not to exceed $1,000,000. A concern was raised regarding whether or not the school board cuts affected the education program proposed. OTHER COMMISSION ACTION The Mayor questioned if the Commission wanted an item on the agenda regarding the Jaycee's request to have bungee jumping on Clearwater Beach. Consensus was there should be no item. She reported on a letter from Oldsmar stating they would assist in the causeway beautification project if we would assist with their Sunshine Playground. She requested a copy of the responses to Mr. Boland's complaint. The Mayor questioned if the Commission wanted to have a resolution supporting funding of Preservation 2000. Consensus was for her to write a letter supporting the concept. She questioned whether the City should take over Seville Boulevard as it is in terrible condition. No consensus. Commissioner Fitzgerald expressed concern regarding the timing of Vision Cable's letter notifying us of a proposed rate increase. OTHER CITY ATTORNEY ITEMS The City Manager reported there is a movement to allow roller skating on Beach Streets. The City Attorney stated those streets would have to be designated as play streets per State Statute. The City Attorney stated he recommends approval of the proposed settlement in the case of the City v. Stowell. He stated it is a complex, time consuming case. In response to concerns expressed, the City Attorney stated the other alternative of condemning the property would be more expensive with additional attorney's fees, and the process would take in excess of 90 days. He stated the court would decide how much we would pay through imminent domain; either way, we will pay his lawyers fee. The meeting adjourned at 2:25 p.m.