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05/15/1995 CITY COMMISSION WORK SESSION May 15, 1995 The City Commission of the City of Clearwater met at City Hall with the following members present: Rita Garvey Mayor/Commissioner Fred A. Thomas Commissioner J. B. Johnson Commissioner Absent: Sue A. Berfield Vice-Mayor/Commissioner Michael R. Dallmann Commissioner Also present: Elizabeth M. Deptula City Manager William C. Baker Assistant City Manager Kathy S. Rice Deputy City Manager Pamela K. Akin City Attorney Scott Shuford Central Permitting Director Cynthia E. Goudeau City Clerk Patricia Sullivan Board Reporter The meeting was called to order at 9:04 a.m. Service Awards Five service awards were presented to City employees. O’Neal Larkin Jr., Parks & Recreation Department, was presented the May 1995 Employee of the Month award. The Mayor read a letter, dated May 15, 1995, from Commissioner Michael R. Dallmann announcing his resignation of his Commission seat due to deep personal considerations, effective this date. Commissioner Dallmann said the decision disappointed him. He thanked his supporters and apologized for any inconveniences his actions may cause the City. The Commission recessed to meet as the Community Redevelopment Agency and Pension Trustees at 9:16 a.m. and reconvened at 11:09 a.m. The City Manager recommended postponing the Capital Improvement Budget (CIP) meeting until May 30, 1995 and rescheduling the Strategic Planning Meeting to June 12, 1995. Consensus was to reschedule the meetings as recommended by the City Manager. PRESENTATIONS - None. ED ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT “North Greenwood Commercial District & Economic Development Opportunities," and "North/South Greenwood Residential Infill Study" James A. Moore, Director of the Florida Center for Community Design + Research (FCCDR), said FCCDR, associated with the University of South Florida’s School of Architecture, prepared two studies for the City, “North Greenwood Commercial District & Economic Development Opportunities” - September 1994 and “North/South Greenwood Residential Infill Study” - February 1995. Dr. Moore said redeveloping Greenwood Avenue, which flanks downtown, will strengthen downtown. Both areas are underutilized. As a problem every city faces, Dr. Moore said government can smooth the path toward economic potentials in the inner city. With no incentive, the area is on the edge of collapse. Dr. Moore believed the neighborhoods could be brought back and suggested types of housing that could be established. He noted entrepreneurial development is beginning in North Greenwood. He stated downtown is too big and its edges are deteriorating. The redevelopment of downtown and its neighbors should be complementary. Dr. Moore reported the 450 potential sites available for home construction, could represent an increased tax structure and audience for commercial and entrepreneurial development. He recommended providing incentives to developers and addressing design challenges associated with small lots. He said an approach is summarized in the reports. He recommended removing impediments to redevelopment by addressing the zoning and Land Use Plan. Alan Ferri, Director of Economic Development, said the studies will provide background material for future issues. He suggested the district parking plan recommendation could be addressed and funds requested at the CIP meeting. Concern was expressed that removing impediments would not address the condition of buildings in disrepair. Dr. Moore agreed. He said the present Infill Housing project meets code regulations. It was noted that suburban developers are discouraged from working with small lots. Dr. Moore said changes might induce private sector development. He noted removing impediments alone would not resolve the need for other incentives. He agreed to provide some suggestions. A request was made for a list of proposed incentives. Concern was expressed that the residential issues thrive. A suggestion for a farmers’ market in the commercial district was supported. Appointment of members to NAHAB The SHIP (State Housing Initiatives Partnership) Program requires the City to establish an Affordable Housing Advisory Committee to review and monitor the annual Local Housing Assistance Plan and the Affordable Housing Incentive Plan. As part of a consolidated plan to address local housing, community and economic development needs, the US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) requires the City to adopt a Citizen Participation Plan. The proposed membership of the new Neighborhood and Affordable Housing Advisory Board (NAHAB) meets the requirements of both federal and state mandates. NAHAB will be an integral part of the City’s effort to inform citizens and solicit participation in these programs. The newly constituted board will comply with term limits and general advisory board code stipulations. It was suggested that the candidates’ names be listed by category along with the number of appointments that must be made from each category. PD POLICE Contract for a police computer system & system integration services to PSI International, Inc., Fairfax, VA, at an amount not to exceed $3,335,0000; authorize a 5-year lease purchase through Barnett Bank for the hardware, at an estimated $2,201,100; authorize a 5-year internal loan for software & installation costs, for $910,000 from the Central Insurance Fund, bearing interest at the cash pool rate, to be repaid from the Administrative Services Fund Components of the system include: 1) Computer Aided Dispatch with integrated mapping; 2) Records management systems including: a) Case management; b) Crime analysis; c) Management reporting; d) Personnel tracking; and e) Traffic Management; 3) Field reporting on pen-based computers; 4) City-standard office automation; 5) Local and wide area networking; 6) Document imaging; 7) Automatic parking tickets; 8) Interfacing with 911, NCIC/FCIC, Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office, Pinellas County Justice Information System, and all City Departments; and 9) Automatic Vehicle Location system (AVL). The proposed system will: 1) provide the Police Department with systematic, real time retrieval capability necessary for efficient and effective operation; 2) eliminate redundance of data elements, data files, data entry and paper reports; 3) improve coordinated efforts of Police Department units including satellite offices; 4) satisfy electronically the State-mandated automated reporting requirements of the Uniform Crime Reports; and 5) provide for long term growth, development and maintenance as department needs dictate. PSI’s proposal includes on-site training courses for Police Department staff for the computer-aided dispatch system, records management system, field accident and incident reporting, automated parking ticket system, case management and crime analysis systems. The proposal also includes training for computer systems support staff and network managers. A dramatic reduction in the department’s dependence on paper reports is expected to result in a consolidation of duties and potentially a reduction in assigned staff. After system implementation, the Human Resources Department will conduct a job audit to identify needed changes. The contract with PSI will include hardware and software maintenance agreements at an annual cost of $262,134. Maintenance costs are contractually fixed for a five year period. The contract does not include internal cabling and related hardware in the new Police Headquarters building which will be part of the building project. Otherwise, this is a complete, turn-key system with nothing remaining to be purchased or supplied by the City. Cost of the Hardware and Software and Services totals $3,335,000. The Fiscal Year 1994/95 budget impact is estimated at $398,540. Future years budget impact estimated at $986,294 includes the annual maintenance costs. A total of $1,133,900 is necessary to fund the software purchase. Funding of $69,750 is available through the Police Computer Network and $150,000 is available in the debt service savings in the Police Department’s current operating budget. The balance of $910,000 will be provided by an internal loan from the Central Insurance Fund to the Administrative Services fund to provide the remaining funds. In response to a question, Deputy Chief Dewey Williams said software upgrades and mandatory State and Federal upgrades are included and guaranteed for five years. Deputy Chief Williams indicated PSI is the integrator that will pull together all the sub-contractors. He said installation will begin within two weeks of the contract’s signing. The system will be implemented on an incremental basis. He indicated AVL is included in the package. It was requested that staff make a simple presentation at the May 18, 1995 meeting explaining what will happen because of this City expenditure. PR PARKS AND RECREATION Bombers - funding request Over the past years, the City has made annual, $10,000 cash contributions to the Clearwater Bombers. For the past two years, the City has offered an additional “grant program” whereby the City contributed $1 for every $10 raised by the Bombers as donations from the private sector, not to exceed $10,000. Clearwater awarded grants of $4,789.67 in 1993 and $6,306 in 1994. In his April 10, 1995 letter, Clearwater Bombers Chair Bruce Kaufmann listed in-kind and cash donations of $74,974 and requested a $7,497.40 match. Mr. Kaufmann indicated the donations of $26,000 worth of advertising from the Beacon Leader Bee and $15,000 worth of tickets from Empress Cruise Lines are in-kind contributions while the remainders are cash. Mr. Kaufmann requested the City’s matching grant relate to “in-kind” and “cash” contributions. Staff concurred that this grant program should relate to cash contributions received by the Bombers, but only to in-kind contributions defined as “essential and necessary services, materials, or equipment donated to the Clearwater Bombers that the Bombers need and would otherwise be willing and required to purchase.” Staff opposed including the in-kind contributions from the Beacon Leader Bee and Empress Cruise Lines. If deducted from the request, the revised contribution total would equal $33,974 and qualify for a $3,397.40 City match. Staff recommends the City continue to match contributions, up to a maximum of $10,000, during the current fiscal year. Ream Wilson, Parks & Recreation Director, recommended essential and necessary in-kind contributions would include airline tickets, uniforms, etc. Consensus was to accept staff’s recommendation regarding matching in-kind contributions, to approve qualifying requests, up to $10,000, and to discuss the grant program yearly. Chi Chi Rodriguez Sublease On November 12, 1985, the City entered into an agreement with the Chi Chi Rodriguez Youth Foundation, Inc. to lease City property on McMullen-Booth Road to the Foundation for educational purposes and the construction and operation of a public golf course. On the same date, a “Lease” was entered into between the Chi Chi Rodriguez Youth Foundation, Inc. and the PGA Tour Associates-I, Ltd., to sublease a portion of the land on the east side of McMullen-Booth Road for the construction and operation of a golf driving range (Family Golf Center). The agreement’s initial term was for 15 years to November 12, 2000. Automatic extensions have added 10 years to the term, now running to 2010. PGA Tour Associates-I, Ltd. may not assign their interest under the lease to another party without the written approval of the City and Chi Chi Rodriguez Youth Foundation In his April 25, 1995 letter, Beryl Artz, Vice President of CCA Golf Center-Clearwater, Inc., has requested the City approve the assignment of the lease to MJM Golf Enterprises, Inc. In his April 24, 1995 letter, John J. Murphy of MJM Golf Enterprises, Inc. provided information regarding his corporation and planned improvements to the “Golf Center.” An April 27, 1995 letter from Polly Bateman indicated the Chi Chi Rodriguez Foundation supports assignment of the lease. Commissioner Thomas requested this item be delayed another two weeks. He noted he may take independent legal action against the City if his attorney indicates the agreement violated the City Charter although the City Attorney has opined otherwise. It was noted the City Attorney is qualified to render an opinion and it should be respected. This item will be pulled from the agenda until the June 1, 1995 meeting. CP CENTRAL PERMITTING Public Hearing & First Reading Ords. #5836-95, #5837-95 & #5838-95 - LDCA's revising receipt and referral and other related code requirements (LDCA95-05) Staff has advised the Commission and advisory boards of the time intensive and complex code requirements involving “Receipt and Referral.” Pursuant to Commission direction, board comments, and recommendations of the Code Enforcement Review Task Force (CERTaF) and the Affordable Housing Advisory Committee (AHAC), three ordinances were prepared for consideration. Ordinance #5836-95 does the following: 1) Eliminates the receipt and referral of certain sized properties for site plan and subdivision plat review; 2) Eliminates receipt and referral of land use plan, annexation, and rezoning requests. These requests would go immediately to public hearings before the Planning & Zoning Board (P&Z) and City Commission; 3) Requires additional public notice for site plans and plats; 4) Eliminates the preliminary and final site plan concept as all technical information is required to be shown on site plans at the initial submittal stage; 5) Clarifies and revises submittal requirements for land development concept plans, conditional use permits’ site plans and variance site plans; It also specifies when a change to a conditional use permit site plan would require reconsideration of the conditional use permit by the P&Z; 6) Clarifies the Development Review Committee role as a City staff board; 7) Allows site plan certification by the Central Permitting Department instead of the City Clerk, saving time in the certification process; The City Clerk still would keep a copy of the certified site plan as an official City record; and 8) Authorizes the City Manager to determine the land or cash issue for the Parks & Recreation Impact Fee for sites not reviewed by the City Commission. Ordinance #5837-95 transfers review of sign variances from the City Commission to the Development Code Adjustment Board. Ordinance #5838-95 allows the Planning & Zoning Board to hear variance requests when variances are associated with conditional use permits to streamline board review. A request was made that prior to Thursday, staff prepare a page defining which powers are proposed to be transferred from the City Commission to City boards and staff. Concern was expressed that the Commission had agreed not to allow the Planning & Zoning Board to hear variance requests when variances are associated with conditional use permits. The City Clerk concurred. The City Clerk is to check the record and if variances connected to Conditional Uses are not to go to the Planning & Zoning Board, Ordinance #5838-95 will be pulled from the May 18, 1995 agenda. Second Reading Ord. #5817-95 - LDCA re Design Review Board (LDCA 95-01); Res. #95-44 - Dissolving North Greenwood Design Review Committee; appointments to DRB On May 4, 1995, The City Commission approved on first reading an ordinance establishing a Design Review Board (DRB) for design reviews of nonresidential sections of Clearwater beach, downtown and the North Greenwood commercial district. This item involves the second reading of the ordinance. The DRB, created by this ordinance, will replace the North Greenwood Design Review Committee, besides performing several other functions. It is necessary to pass a resolution thanking current and past Committee members for their service to the City and dissolving the North Greenwood Design Review Committee. It is necessary to appoint the DRB membership. Staff recommends that priority be given to those who have served on the following groups: 1) North Greenwood Design Review Committee; 2) Downtown Partnership Design Group; 3) Clearwater Beach Association/Chamber of Commerce Tropical Seascape design Committee; 4) City Beautification Committee; and 5) City Historic Preservation Board. One member must own property or operate a business in each of the regulated areas for a total of three members. Two members must be design professionals and two members are to be selected at large. Concern was expressed that an ordinance and resolution were required to dissolve the North Greenwood Design Review Committee. Central Planning Director Scott Shuford indicated the resolution provides a good way to thank the members of the North Greenwood Design Review Committee. It was requested that the candidates’ names be listed by category along with the number of appointments that must be made from each category. A concern was expressed regarding possible conflicts of interest among DRB members who are contractors. It was noted that the required categories balance the board. CM ADMINISTRATION (Cont’d from 03/13 & 04/17/95) Synopsis of Beach discussion items The City Manager noted this discussion has been postponed for two months. She said staff is requesting Commission direction regarding: 1) What role is most appropriate for the City to take in marketing Clearwater and its attractions; 2) How many funds will be allocated for this purpose and from what source; 3) What should be done concerning a feasibility study on a conference center; 4) What should be done concerning a feasibility study on parking; 5) City Commission direction concerning staff developed questions to survey beach residents and business owners; and 6) Whether the City Commission wants to take the small, medium, or large scale redevelopment path. Mr. Shuford reported staff is working on information kiosks. It was recommended that a special meeting be scheduled regarding the beach because of the complex issues that need to be addressed. It was suggested that more issues should be brought to the table and a recommendation was made for the City to request $6-million from the Convention & Visitors’ Bureau (CVB) for the Harborview Center. It was noted that the City could market Clearwater at the Florida Welcome Centers. It was suggested that the City should not be marketing hotels and motels. Another Commissioner disagreed and suggested the City should market hotels and motels because the CVB is not doing an adequate marketing job for Clearwater beach. Concern was expressed that beach parking must be addressed. The City Manager said before recommendations could be made regarding parking garages, an expert would need to perform a feasibility study. She noted the beach sidewalk projects have been delayed until direction regarding redevelopment is given. A date for the special meeting will be set at Thursday night’s meeting. Discussion - Downtown Lake (WSO) A properly designed downtown lake could be a City asset and would function as an aesthetic downtown feature with multi-family, institutional or other development on its perimeter. The lake also would be available to serve as stormwater detention for redevelopment in the downtown area. If the lake can be constructed on both sides of Court Street via acquisition of property lying in a triangle formed by Court and Chestnut Streets and Prospect Avenue, the aesthetics and visual impact can be enhanced at minimum cost. The current downtown study includes the lake as a desirable feature. Assistant City Manager William Baker presented slides including a lake in downtown Orlando. He reported the total value of property considered for the lake is approximately $10-million and the estimated value of the lakeside property after construction of the lake is $10-million. He recommended constructing residences on three sides of the lake and Court Street “dividing” part of the lake. It was suggested that an island be added to the center of the lake. Mr. Baker stated the proposed lake will cover only 17 acres. It was suggested that the lake and pond on both sides of Court Street be linked to encourage water circulation. Mr. Baker said that would be expensive but indicated an underwater weir will be constructed and chemicals will be used to balance the lakes' Ph. Mr. Baker requested the Commission withdraw the Utilities building from the market as it is located on the proposed lake site. He said staff is negotiating with the bank regarding the adjoining Texaco property that is in the bank’s hands. Staff is trying to negotiate a fair price for the sliver of land between the gasoline station and City property. He estimated the City could construct this portion of the lake for $200,000. As the development of the lake is for a public purpose, it was recommended the City use its condemnation powers if necessary so individual landowners cannot hold out and ruin the project. The majority of the Commission recommended proceeding with the whole project for both lakes. Mr. Baker noted staff’s proposed lake differs slightly from the one recommended by the CRA’s planning consultants. The City Manager noted financing the project created a stumbling block. Consensus was to have staff take the Utility building off the market, negotiate for the purchase of the Texaco property and the “sliver” in between, and begin development of new road plans for Court Street. Pier 60 Park The City Commission instructed staff to remove all structures and features on the three-acre tract at the foot of Pier 60 on Clearwater beach. Plans once included a possible tower restaurant as a site focal point. The Commission noted its desire to remove the landscaped entrance mound and indicated the proposed pavilion should be located in the three-acre tract and have a “beach aura.” Mr. Baker noted City Commission direction indicated the only commercial activity that should occur on the tract is a concession stand. He noted two additional parties have expressed interest in developing the site. It was noted that the land is very valuable. The Consensus was to leave the plan as it is. The City Manager reported that Mr. Alexander is not willing to run his ice cream stand until a new one can be constructed. She recommended razing the whole site and allowing a civic club or social services agency to set up a temporary portable unit to dispense cold drinks, chips and ice cream until a new concession stand can be built. Consensus was to permit this temporary arrangement. Mr. Baker reported a wall will be built to separate visitors from the construction. He noted art work will decorate the construction wall. A question was raised regarding whether this project had been funded. A recommendation was made that a professional mural of a whale be painted on the Cleveland side of the Harborview Center. No support for the suggestion was indicated. CA LEGAL DEPARTMENT First Reading Ordinances Ord. #5840-95 - amending Ord. #5815-95 The City Attorney reported the amendments to this ordinance define the powers and responsibilities of the agency approved by the City Commission. She agreed the ordinance puts the City back in control. OTHER CITY ATTORNEY ITEMS The City Attorney reported the Florida Legislature passed legislation this session addressing private property rights, permitting compensation for laws that cause substantial impact. She will distribute additional information as it becomes available. City Manager Verbal Reports The City Attorney reported the Chamber of Commerce has approached the City again regarding the purchase of their building for $385,000. The Chamber has delayed commencement of renovations until the Commission again addresses the issue. Approval of purchasing the building at the staff’s suggested price of $250,000 was recommended. It was noted the property may be needed for construction of the proposed high span bridge to Clearwater beach. Consensus was to add this item to the May 18, 1995 agenda. Commission Discussion Items Commissioner Johnson referred to a proposal for a downtown sign design. The City Manager indicated this issue is more the purview of the CRA. She said the recommendation is to design a sign to identify downtown. It was noted that additional designs would be requested. Staff will bring this item back for discussion in two to three months. Commissioner Johnson recommended the Executive Director of the CRA should answer to the City Manager. Another Commissioner offered a “philosophical difference of opinion.” It was noted that this is the first time the CRA has had an identity. Concern was expressed that Commission members are not always apprised of CRA actions and proposals. Commissioner Johnson requested information on Roy Cadwell’s complaint. Concern was expressed that the City may be taking away citizen freedoms. The City Manager said she will work with the City Attorney and distribute a chronology of events regarding Mr. Cadwell’s rental property. The City Attorney noted Mr. Cadwell’s complaint concerns the establishment of minimum standards. It was noted the City has the right to establish standards. Other Commission Action Commissioner Thomas noted long term problems with “Battle Lake,” the retention pond at the corner of Pierce and Prospect. Mr. Baker said the aerators are working. The water becomes foul every year at this time when no rain falls. He stated the City is not permitted to utilize chemicals that would remove the algae because the water eventually flows into the Gulf. He noted a recommendation to plant water lilies. Commissioner Thomas recommended something be done now before the lake project is started. He suggested planting water lilies if that will solve the problem. Adjourn The Commission adjourned at 1:14 p.m.