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04/15/1996 CITY COMMISSION WORK SESSION CITY OF CLEARWATER April 15, 1996 Present: Rita Garvey Mayor/Commissioner J. B. Johnson Commissioner Robert Clark Commissioner Ed Hooper Commissioner Karen Seel Commissioner Elizabeth M. Deptula City Manager William C. Baker Assistant City Manager Kathy S. Rice Deputy City Manager Pamela K. Akin City Attorney Cynthia E. Goudeau City Clerk Patricia O. Sullivan Board Reporter The meeting was called to order at 9:00 a.m. at City Hall. Service Awards Seven service awards were presented to City employees. The Commission recessed from 9:05 to 9:55 a.m. to meet as the Pension Trustees and Community Redevelopment Agency. Seating Chart Previous direction for Commission seating was for the Vice-Mayor to sit on the Mayor's right; the next senior Commission member in years of services sit on the Mayor's left; next senior to the right of the Vice-Mayor, etc. The Mayor questioned the need for all Commissioners to change their current seat location. Consensus was the only pre-determined seating, other than the Mayor in the center, will be for the Vice-Mayor to sit on the Mayor's right. ED ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Res. #96-25 - Accepting recommendations of the City’s NAHAB (Neighborhood & Affordable Housing Advisory Board) and adopting a Local Housing Assistance Plan for the City in accordance with State of Florida SHIP (State Housing Initiatives Partnership) Program provisions The SHIP (State Housing Initiatives Partnership) Program creates a comprehensive funding package, via a $0.50 documentary stamp tax on deeds, for local affordable housing programs. The State has estimated the City will receive $572,384 for FY (fiscal year) 1996/97 (July 1 - June 30). The City must use at least 75% of the funding for construction, rehabilitation or emergency repair and 65% for home ownership. At least 30% of assisted households must be occupied by very low-income persons and 30% must be occupied by low-income persons. The balance can be spent on moderate-income persons. The City currently meets all State funding requirements. On March 19, 1996, NAHAB (Neighborhood Affordable Housing Advisory Board) unanimously recommended approval of the Local Housing Assistance Plan. This year's Local Housing Assistance Plan does not differ substantially from last year. The funding amount is static but strategies were adjusted to serve a larger number of households. Concern was expressed the City track subsidies. Deputy City Manager Kathy Rice said the City tracks deferred payments as if they were loans. FN FINANCE Agreement with Pinellas County Tax Collector for billing and collection of assessments for the City’s Special Assessment District No. 95-01 (Sand Key Power Line Burial) with reimbursement of Tax Collector costs at $1 per tax bill, not to exceed $9,330 Originally, 2,855 Sand Key properties were assessed. The prepayment was chosen by 1,922 property owners. The Tax Collector will bill 933 property owners annually over a ten-year period. This agreement provides for reimbursement of tax collector costs at the rate of $1 per billing. This cost is not expected to exceed $933 per year for the ten-year billing period. Property owners will reimburse the City for these project costs via assessment billings. In answer to a question, Finance Director Margie Simmons said the project is revenue neutral. The Mayor noted property owners will be reimbursed if they overpay expenses. Res. #96-30 - Authorizing City Officials to execute, by hand or by facximile signature, all checks drawn by the City on City Accounts Due to personnel changes and department realignment, the list of those authorized to sign manual checks needs to be updated: 1) Deleted - Director of Administrative Services Jeff Harper and 2) Added - Assistant Finance Director John Scott and Finance Controller Jay Ravins. It was questioned if this change meets the City's insurance standards. Ms. Simmons stated the City is self-insured. Additional signatures are needed for emergency procedures. She noted every account requires two signatures. Declare obsolete, worn out or excess, articles of furniture & office equipment resulting from move to new facilities, as surplus personal property; authorize disposal through donation to charitable organizations in the local area Furniture and equipment were purchased for the Municipal Services complex. Many items currently used by departments moving to the new facility will no longer be needed. Non-moving departments have selected many serviceable items for redistribution within the City. These departments also will generate surplus when they receive redistribution. All surplus items will be moved to the Annex Auditorium. Departments will have a final opportunity to select items. Used furniture and equipment have little resale value. Staff recommends donating all remaining surplus to charitable organizations as approved by the City Manager. Staff will itemize fixed assets with original values of $500 or more for after action approval and proper accountability. In answer to a question, Ms. Rice said staff will contact the non-profit agencies the City supports with CDBG (Community Development Block Grants) and Social Service grants. Concern was expressed that distribution of the surplus be fair. The City Manager's office will develop a list of suitable non-profits. Any surplus not claimed will be donated to a Goodwill-type organization. PW PUBLIC WORKS Purchase of fire hydrants from U. S. Pipe & Foundry, Birmingham, AL, for the period 05/24/96 -05/23/97, at a total estimated $78,393 Fire hydrants are installed throughout the City's water distribution system to replace damaged/broken hydrants, upgrade substandard hydrants, and to expand the system. They are purchased as needed. Quantity estimates are based on past usage. To minimize inventory or repair parts on hand, Clearwater limits fire hydrants to Kennedy Guardian (K-91A), Mueller Centurion (A-423), and U. S. Pipe Metropolitan. In answer to a question, the City Manager said the City is not penalized by using more than one type of hydrant as a number of manufacturers compete in this market. She will report if the price includes freight costs. EN ENGINEERING Direction re Landmark Drive extension (7:30 p.m. Thursday night) A copy of a letter from the School Board indicating their property south of Lake Chatauqua Park is landbanked for future needs will be distributed to Commission members. Engineering Director Rich Baier said planning maps feature Landmark Drive extending from Enterprise to Union Street. The City has no plans to extend South of Lake Chatauqua Park as further extension would require land acquisition. The road could extend to the school board property without connecting to Union Street. A map will be presented indicating the distance from the Lake Chatauqua Park entrance to the school board property. Mr. Baier said plans for the Landmark Drive extension have been scaled down and do not include access to Marlo Boulevard or Saber Drive. The City Manager said the City Commission had directed the residents in the Marlo Boulevard subdivision be informed regarding alternatives before a decision is made regarding their access to Landmark Drive. The Landmark Drive extension will have a 10 to 15 foot buffer on each side. He reviewed a typical road section featuring an inverted crown so the road acts as a conduit for rain water runoff. He reported a 70 foot width right-of-way is needed to construct bicycle lanes. The City Manager stated staff may come back with ordinances to narrow residential streets to "calm" traffic. It was questioned why plans did not center the road in the 80 foot section and buffer each subdivision equally. Mr. Baier said the roadway design is centered in the City owned right-of-way. The width of that right-of-way narrows as it passes the Vogel property. Concern was expressed about the extension's impact. In answer to a question, the City Manager suggested it may be advantageous for the City to eventually build a driveway to the school board property North from Union Street. Mr. Baier said the most important factors are the park access issue and the permits that may expire. The City Attorney will address the Vogel's rights to access their property. Concern was expressed park traffic could include school buses and disrupt residential neighborhoods. It was suggested the entrance to the park could be via Marlo Boulevard and the exit could be via Parkstream. This issue will be addressed on April 18, 1996. All affected neighborhoods were posted. Res. #96-27 - dedicating certain properties as public rights-of-way and as public utility easements; designating the properties as additional rights-of-way for Highland Avenue (portion of Tract A, Unit 1 of Palm Terrace Sub.) During FY (fiscal year) 1996, the City will undertake an improvement project to widen Highland Avenue between Gulf-to-Bay Boulevard and Union Street as a three-lane neighborhood collector. The road's northbound and southbound lanes will be separated by a continuous left turn lane. Additional right-of-way was acquired to facilitate street alignment and to widen a number of corner radii to 35 feet for improved safety. The project initially identified 21 parcels for acquisition. Of those, 14 were acquired for $6,500 cash, plus improvements to be made to 6 properties during construction at an estimated cost of $2,000. It was determined that 7 parcels were non-essential for the project and efforts to obtain them were terminated. The City-owned parcel on the northwest corner of Highland Avenue and Palmettos Street, along with 14 parcels acquired from private citizens, will provide sufficient right-of-way to meet project specifications. In response to a question, it was indicated no objections have been received regarding this project. Mr. Baier said a new sidewalk also will be installed. The retention pond will be expanding to the East and West. Turning radii will be improved. The road's level of service currently is rated F. The lanes are 14-feet wide. Amendment No. 1 to Agreement for consultant services for development & implementation of a Comprehensive Watershed Management Plan for the Alligator Creek Watershed to Parsons Engineering Science Inc., for design of a wetland mitigation & stormwater treatment project within the Alligator Creek drainage basin, a component of the Del Oro Phase 2 Stormwater Rehabilitation Project, for $106,789 Parsons Engineering Science, Inc. is developing a Watershed Management Plan that will call for capital improvements that require wetland mitigation. This project is part of the Del Oro Phase 2 Stormwater Rehabilitation Project and provides wetland mitigation banking for future projects within the basin, and is supported as an "Early Action Project:" by the Alligator Creek Watershed Management Planning Committee. Separating the project into two components allows the City to proceed with the design and permitting required for the treatment facility while installing pipe and resurfacing the roads. The existing consultant agreement with Parsons Engineering Science, Inc. allows for this additional service. Parsons Engineering Science, Inc.'s performance to date has been excellent. It was questioned if the City of Safety Harbor and SWFWMD (Southwest Florida Water Management District) are sharing the cost of this project. Mr. Baier said that is the case. He will send the Commission a memorandum listing each contribution. In answer to a question, Mr. Baier said the City is amending an existing contract instead of going through the entire bidding process with other entities. He said the current consultants are doing excellent work. Construction of the facility will come to the Commission for approval. Funding for the approximately $125,000 - $150,000 project will come from the stormwater utility fund. (Cont'd from 03/21 & 04/04/96) Public Hearing - Approve City’s request to vacate that portion of the North/South alley lying West of Lots 3-6 and East of Lots 7-10 in Blk 3, Pine Crest Sub., and deny request to vacate the alley West of Lots 1 & 2 and East of Lots 11 & 12 (City, V96-03B) This item was continued to accommodate concerns expressed by adjoining property owners. This City-initiated, neighborhood-wide, alley vacation request is for an area bounded by Drew Street, Myrtle Avenue, Greenwood Avenue and Palmetto Street based on Commission direction. Area residents believe fencing in their part of the vacated alleys would help eliminate pedestrian traffic and illegal activities along the rear of their properties. This vacation will further restrict vehicular and pedestrian access. Ann Capshaw, owner of four lots abutting the subject alley, had written a letter expressing concern regarding activities in and about the alley. She has agreed to a partial vacation to control traffic. Engineering Services reviewed the condition of this alley and agreed the Southerly portion could be vacated. Because the business owner on the West side of the North end of the alley also owns a lot on the East side, he will have room to maneuver a truck to his loading dock. Local utilities have no objections provided utility easements are retained full width over the vacated alleys. The City Engineer concurs with Engineering Services' recommendation that the southerly portion of the alley can be vacated. Mr. Baier said the parties have not reached consensus regarding a proposed agreement. He presented pictures of the 10-foot wide, unpaved alley. Arthonia Godwin wants the alley to remain open in its entirety. Ms. Capshaw wants at least a partial vacation. A request was made for staff to provide the Commission with crime statistics on the alley. It was suggested public safety may outweigh Mr. Godwin's need for easy access several times per week. Mr. Baier said nearby property owners, previously unaware of the issue, have indicated they will submit a petition supporting the vacation. A suggestion was made that Ms. Capshaw construct a fence between her property and the alley. Mr. Baier said it would be confining to have fences line both sides of the alley. He noted long standing City policy against vacating alleys if faced with objection. He said extenuating circumstances may exist in this situation. It was noted trucks and vans can access Mr. Godwin's business if the alley is partially vacated. The City Manager noted a vacation is a permanent action. She suggested the crime problem may be addressed another way. Engineering will review the suggestion to fence the rear of Ms. Capshaw's property. Contract for Traffic Engineering Services Field Operations Complex to Hennessy Construction Services, Corp., for $406,668.15; approve related expenditures of $19,700, for a total of $426,368.15 Bids were solicited and received for the construction of the Traffic Engineering Field Operations Complex at 1163 Gould Street. The proposed complex will consolidate all Traffic Engineering field operations personnel. An alternate bid was solicited to "hurricane harden" a portion of this facility to protect the electrical, signal, and sign maintenance facilities from up to a category 3 hurricane and to provide the Traffic Engineering Division with an emergency recovery center. Hardening would increase the project's cost by $50,358.96. The current Engineering Sign Shop at 410 N. Myrtle Avenue will be renovated to accommodate Engineering Services and Environmental field operations staff and the engineering materials testing lab and environmental field lab. The City's Building and Maintenance Division submitted the lowest bid of $17,300. Staff feels this project will benefit the community by providing for the relocation of vital traffic and engineering services from the City Hall Annex building and by centralizing traffic field operations. Hardening of the structure would serve to speed the recovery of City-wide traffic operations in the event of hurricane damage. Other costs associated with this contract include a $2,400 application fee for the SWFWMD (Southwest Florida Water Management District) stormwater permit. The projected cost for the complete project without "hurricane hardening" is $406,668.15. The contract award amount to Hennessy Construction Services without "hurricane hardening" is $406,668.15. This project is scheduled for completion within 120 calendar days of its planned May 1, 1996, start date. The property's Urban Core (UC) zoning permits construction of government facilities. The City Manager said when City owned properties first were reviewed for this project, only parcels with no other use were considered. After examining the area near the Public Works facility, staff has determined the Traffic Engineering Field Operations Complex could be located at this facility if parking is rearranged. The site will accommodate adequate parking. Mr. Baier said the building's size will remain at 9,000 square feet but construction of a pond and street improvement will not be required, resulting in a projected savings of $200,000. The City Manager said staff will review if it is worth hardening the building and further discuss that on Thursday. Current construction plans are for a concrete block building with glazed windows. It was noted the Municipal Services building was not designed to house field offices. Commission members complimented staff for realizing a substantial savings and locating the operation in an appropriate site. Mr. Baier expected the City would get full use out of the total life of the building. US 19N Intersection Update Don Skelton, representative for the FDOT (Florida Department of Transportation) said right-of-way costs have escalated on US 19N. He reviewed various intersection designs that reduce right-of-way needs. A design with two lanes serving as turn facilitators could be implemented within the current right-of-way but may not be feasible in some areas. All alternatives will be studied in more detail. Mr. Skelton said more information regarding FDOT plans will be presented in June or July 1996. He noted the importance of maintaining US 19N access to Drew Street. In answer to a question, he estimated studies of the Sunset Point, NE Coachman, and Drew Street intersections with US 19N will be completed in a year. He agreed each interchange is unique. The Commission recessed from 11:01 to 11:08 a.m. CP CENTRAL PERMITTING An annual report was requested listing all properties added to the City through annexation and all properties removed from the tax rolls. Staff will work with the property appraiser. It was noted the County has indicated they are not interested in an interlocal agreement to encourage the annexation of enclaves within the City. It was suggested the City write another letter to the County requesting this agreement. Public Hearing & First Reading Ord. #5992-96 - LDCA revising density conversions for nursing homes & residential shelters, and revising parking regulations for nursing homes, residential shelters & group care facilities (LDCA96-05) Staff identified a need to revise the regulations for the density conversion for nursing homes and residential shelters. The new restrictions are consistent with the City's Comprehensive Land Use Plan in conjunction with the Pinellas Planning Council's Countywide Rules. Staff also has reviewed parking regulations for nursing homes, residential shelters and group care facilities, and proposes revisions to more closely reflect actual need. Concern was expressed this revision would permit increased capacity in subject facilities. Central Permitting Director Scott Shuford noted some nursing homes are nonconforming when annexed due to density. These changes will put County and City facilities on equal footing. He said densities could increase. He will provide a definition of the facilities addressed in this ordinance. Discussion - Downtown Plan Zoning Amendments Mr. Shuford said staff is preparing to contact property owners affected by the proposed downtown zoning changes. Urban Core 2, where the tallest buildings would be permitted, has been expanded to both sides of Myrtle Avenue with a zoning line running along Prospect between Chestnut and Drew. He noted concerns regarding unlimited bonus levels. He suggested the most extreme bonus would allow a 6.0 FAR (Floor Area Ratio) and 220 foot height restriction. He suggested few would reach those limitations. He noted the Rome Tower is proposed to be 430 feet. Consensus was to concur with Mr. Shuford's review of proposed zoning amendments. Receipt/Referral - LDCA excluding city-owned property from eligibility for minor variance consideration, excluding any property from minor variance consideration where variances are granted in excess of specified limits, and allowing minor variances for freestanding sign setback up to five feet (LDCA96-10) This code amendment was prepared in response to two areas of concern expressed by the DCAB (Development Code Adjustment Board) regarding the minor variance program. The Board was concerned the minor variance program could result in cumulative variances and cited a case involving a property that previously had received a parking variance. Approval of the requested minor variance for parking exceeded the authorized amount under the minor variance program if the variances were combined. DCAB requested staff develop code changes to eliminate this potential. DCAB recommended excluding City-owned properties from minor variance consideration to avoid an appearance of a conflict of interest. Staff recommended allowing minor variances for freestanding sign setback for the full five feet required. This reflects the Commission's typical approval of sign setback variances. The City Manager expressed concern regarding setbacks of freestanding signs. As some requirements are for five feet only, this recommendation could allow a total variance. It was suggested all sign variances continue to be referred to the City Commission. Mr. Shuford noted staff can attach conditions when granting minor variances. When variances are frequently granted, Mr. Shuford tries to get that issue codified or included in the minor variance program. He indicated staff can stop granting minor variances for signs. Mr. Shuford will provide a summary of the minor variances granted by staff in 1995. He will consider the recommendation that language in the ordinance indicate property owners agree no governmental agency shall be liable for the cost of relocating or removing the sign in the event the property is acquired by eminent domain for road widening or any other public purpose. CM ADMINISTRATION Discussion of direction regarding North Greenwood community meeting issues The summary of issues raised at the recent North Greenwood Community Meeting was reviewed. Concerns regarding Marshall Street (WPC) Water Pollution Control Plant include: 1) recommendation of location alternatives or relocation out of neighborhood; 2) future expansion; 3) alleviation of odor and noise; 4) allegation plant is responsible for lowered property values; 5) assurance that reclaimed and potable water are not mixed; and 6) safety of plant chemicals. Concerns regarding utility rates include: 1) rate levels may vary throughout City; 2) recommendation to lower neighborhood rates due to proximity to Marshall Street WPC; and 3) rate levels are detrimental to businesses. Concerns regarding Stevenson's Creeks include: 1) dredging need; 2) creek odor; and 3) allegation sewage is dumped there. Miscellaneous concerns include: 1) need for additional parking for Greenwood Panthers and other activities; 2) perception North Greenwood community receives things not wanted in other communities; 3) concern City plumbing code conflicts with State Statute; and 4) allegation pipes carry dirty water and sewer rats to toilets. The City Manager noted staff concerns that the reclaimed water project not be delayed. Mr. Baier reported design work is in its 5th month of a one year design project. The City Manager referred to the success of the Clearwater Beach Blue Ribbon Task Force and suggested a similar task force be formed to address all issues of importance to North Greenwood. It was agreed time restrictions regarding when trucks access the water treatment plant should be implemented. It was felt relocating the plant is not feasible due to an estimated cost of $100-million. Mr. Baier is preparing a matrix of evaluation factors regarding the reclaimed water issue. It was noted a pumping station close to the plant will be required. Staff is working on reducing plant odors. Complaints have been received regarding the Northeast Plant which has similarly designed open tanks. It was requested clarification be made that North Greenwood residents are charged the same utility rates as the rest of the City. Staff will determine if property values have decreased as a result of the WPC.. Further discussion of this issue was scheduled for May 2, 1996. EAB (Environmental Advisory Board) actions for Commission consideration The EAB recommended the City Commission actively pursue providing funds to augment private funds being collected, if necessary, to help ensure the purchase of the Camp Soule property. It was indicated once the Boy Scouts indicate their willingness to sell, the City will pursue all avenues for funding the camp's purchase including private fund-raising, grants, etc. It was noted the City will own the camp if the current endeavor is successful. The EAB recommended the City Commission direct staff to include a questionnaire in the water utility bills to determine the level of public interest in having reclaimed water for private or commercial use. It was indicated this tool has proved ineffective for determining public position. Mr. Baier said a survey of the Countryside area has been completed. He reported staff provides petitions to neighborhoods that express interest in reclaimed water, review the process, and compare the benefit to cost. He said walking petitions around neighborhoods is more successful than mailers. Consensus was for staff not to survey residents regarding reclaimed water via utility bills. Direction regarding Hillsborough County property The City Manager reported a request was made to use the City's 400-acre Hillsborough County property for cattle grazing. That person would become the property's caretaker. Mr. Baier indicated the City received revenue from the orange crop this year. The City Manager indicated the sale of the property was put on hold after it was declared surplus due to lowered property values. It was suggested the City market the property again. Staff will return with a current appraisal. Scientologist request to close one southbound lane of Ft. Harrison Ave., between Pierce St. & Franklin St., on May 10, 1996, from 6:00 p.m. to midnight For an annual celebration, the Scientologist request a partial street closure of Ft. Harrison Avenue. They anticipate 3,000 people will attend the event. An application for a Special Event has been filed with the Parks & Recreation Department. Concern was expressed requests for street closures seem to occur every couple of months. It was suggested the number of street closures per year be limited. The City Attorney felt the number of closures could be limited. It was recommended the number of closures be limited to twice a year per organizations. The City Manager noted the City requests more than two street closures a year. It was felt that City-sponsored events can be exempt from these limitations. It was suggested the Special Events Committee review this issue before the Commission takes action. Beach Welcome Center Tourism Director Jean Sherry reported different types of welcome centers are operated along Florida's coast. The Beach Welcome Center, currently run by the Greater Clearwater Chamber of Commerce, employs one full-time and one part-time person and three volunteers. The center offers concierge-type services but represents only members of the Greater of Clearwater Chamber of Commerce. The center serves an average of 70 to 80 persons daily. The City Manager referred to Greater Clearwater Chamber of Commerce Chair Stephen Fowler's April 12, 1996, letter that indicated the Greater Clearwater Chamber of Commerce is willing to support extending operation of the center until the end of May 1996. Beyond that, the Greater Clearwater Chamber of Commerce will charge the City $2,675 per month for providing welcome center services that represent everybody. The Greater Clearwater Chamber of Commerce will provide equipment needed to increase representation. The City Commission will vote on this matter on Thursday. In answer to a question, the City Manager said an RFP (Request for Proposals) for the operation of the Welcome Center will be sent to those on the City's vendor list. Ms. Sherry said staff will contact an association for a list of companies in this type of business. She said the Welcome Center could package vacation tours, including eco-tourism opportunities. Ms. Sherry noted a private firm may charge for brochure rack space as a way to generate general revenues. They also can profit by selling tickets to local tourist attractions. She said managing the center would not be time consuming for her. The City Manager recommended the City compete and submit an application to run the center. She could not estimate the cost as some revenue would be possible. The City will participate in updating the facility no matter who wins the contract. It was noted revenues would be slimmer if the City ran the center. Consensus was to issue a RFP to run the Beach Welcome Center. The City's proposal will be reviewed with the other submissions. City Manager questioned the kind of standards the City Commission wished to establish to determine if the operator is performing well. It was suggested the Tourism Director should not establish the standards if she plans to submit a competitive application. It was suggested establishing hours of operation, experience, liability, financial standing, training, and requiring a performance bond. The City Manager indicated management will define acceptable service. It was suggested staff check the yellow pages when distributing RFPs. It was suggested the center not be used as a substation for a travel agency. The City Attorney indicated the City can limit the activity that takes place at the center. Proposals should indicate the charge for advertising space. Ms. Sherry was congratulated for her many activities. Discussion regarding Homeless Shelter This issue will be addressed Thursday night. CLK CITY CLERK Legislative Update Copies of the mangrove bills were requested. Commissioner Johnson reported on his recent trip to Tallahassee and recommended each Commissioner travel to the capital. CA LEGAL DEPARTMENT Second Reading Ordinances (Cont'd from 03/21/96) Ord. #5972-96 - Amending Secs. 35.11, 40.424, 40.434, 40.444, 40.464, 40.474, 40.503, 40.523 & 41.053 - LDCA establishing “Research and Technology Production Uses” (LDCA96-02) Commissioner Seel reported the PPC (Pinellas Planning Council) will address this issue on Wednesday. Mr. Shuford believed the City can accept proposed language distributed by the Director of the PPC. He said the issue remains on the agenda so staff can provide information to the City Commission as it becomes available. He indicated soon a date for second reading will be established. First Reading Ordinances Ord. #6016-96 - Vacation (City V96-03A) The City Attorney noted the objection to one of the mentioned alley closures. If a change occurs, a new Public Hearing will be advertised. City Manager Verbal Reports Greater Clearwater Chamber of Commerce Resolution supporting the Tampa Bay Bucs The City Commission will address on Thursday a resolution to support allowing Hillsborough County residents to vote on approving a 5% county sales tax on rental cars. Future Focus Reports The City Manager invited the City Commission to join staff for Future Focus Reports on April 16, 1996, at the Harborview Center. Tour of the Municipal Services building Consensus was to tour the Municipal Services building on April 18, 1996, at 4:30 p.m. Suggestion Forms The City Manager questioned if the City Commission wished to continue using current suggestion forms. It was felt people feel better if they can complete a form regarding their concerns. It was recommended the forms be available at locations frequented by citizens. C-View Task Force Concerns The City Manager noted the C-View Task Force has requested the City Commission not schedule meetings outside the Chambers. The City Manager said all will try to be sensitive to that issue, although that is not always possible. Consensus was to hold the May 6, 1996, Special Meeting in Chambers. Confirm sale of surplus Halon gas in City Hall Annex Traffic Computer room The City Manager reported Traffic Engineering is moving their signal computer to the Municipal Services building. One contractor will remove the halon gas. Because of the nature of the gas, the City Manager approved the sale of the surplus. Consensus was to confirm this item on Thursday's Consent Agenda. Commission Discussion Items Budget Advisory Committee request to Commission It was felt the BAC (Budget Advisory Committee) is not effective. In answer to a question, Budget Director Tina Wilson said the BAC had never recommended the committee be abolished. They had expressed concern regarding tasks they should pursue. Ms. Wilson felt the BAC has been effective in the past. It was felt the BAC would be helpful in reviewing specific projects. Ms. Wilson noted the BAC's successful review of the recycling program. The City Manager noted the BAC does not want to meet for more than an hour and a half once a month. She noted in the past, the City Commission has not relied on BAC budget recommendations. Ms. Wilson noted the BAC is capable of doing research. It was suggested the BAC could review the operations of the Welcome Center, once it is running, and the concession stand. Concern was expressed the Committee may be wasting member and staff time without accomplishing anything. Consensus was to address this issue on Thursday. The BAC recommendation to control food services in Clearwater was addressed. It was noted Pasco County is the only county able to rate restaurants according to established health standards. Other Commission Action Commissioner Clark reported on a recent MPO (Metropolitan Planning Organization) meeting he attended. An example of the type of interchange being proposed for US 19N is located at the intersection of Dale Mabry and Hillsborough in Tampa. Hillsborough County Commissioner Turanchik reported on the rail issue. He reported Senate Bill #10 will tighten requirements for handicapped parking. Commissioner Clark will be in Tallahassee on April 22, 1996. Commissioner Hooper noted staff concern the new employee handbook's prohibition of knives not affect pocket knives. Commissioner Hooper referred to Sheila Cole's concern regarding landscaping on the Memorial Causeway. He recommended transplanting the palm trees from the City Hall Annex. Mr. Baker said plans were to plant those trees at the proposed shelter. Commissioner Hooper expressed concern the trees be used. Commissioner Hooper referred to concerns expressed by a business owner in the Harbor Shopping Center that access to incoming eastbound traffic from Sunset Point Road is now blocked. Mr. Baier said the Sunset Point Road and US 19N intersection is one of the City's highest accident locations. He said left turns by eastbound Sunset Point Road traffic were never allowed at that location. The property owner was not interested in FDOT concern regarding this issue when the Checkers was built on an out parcel several years ago. The service station North of Checkers has closed. Access to the shopping center is between the closed service station and Checkers. He noted tenants were aware of the road project and received a break in their rental rates because of that. Commissioner Hooper noted tenants are suffering because the center's entrance is not marked. Staff will review the sign issue. Commissioner Johnson questioned the cost for free tickets provided in the City's recent media promotion in Chicago. Ms. Sherry reported ATA donated the airplane tickets; the Greater Clearwater Chamber of Commerce arranged the remainder of the tour package. Commissioner Johnson questioned if Pier 60 is attracting an unsavory crowd. It was indicated the Police Department's gang task force will address this issue. Mayor Garvey noted an irate property owner expressed concern his property was listed as one with clean up problems. Mr. Baier said the map of the proposed downtown lake lists potential sites of contamination. The City has not performed any coring or sampling. Deputy City Manager Kathy Rice said the map was based on information from the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency). She said the property owner evidently did not report to EPA that they had tested their property and found it to be clean. Staff will investigate this issue further. Adjourn The meeting adjourned at 1:27 p.m.