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04/01/1996 CITY COMMISSION WORK SESSION CITY OF CLEARWATER April 1, 1996 Present: Rita Garvey Mayor/Commissioner J. B. Johnson Commissioner Robert Clark Commissioner Karen Seel Commissioner-elect Ed Hooper Commissioner-elect Elizabeth M. Deptula City Manager William C. Baker Assistant City Manager Kathy S. Rice Deputy City Manager Pamela K. Akin City Attorney Mary K. "Sue" Diana Assistant City Clerk Patricia O. Sullivan Board Reporter Absent: Sue A. Berfield Vice-Mayor/Commissioner Fred A. Thomas Commissioner The meeting was called to order at 9:00 a.m. at City Hall. Service Awards - None The Commission recessed from 9:00 to 9:05 a.m. to meet as the Pension Trustees. CRT COMMUNITY RESPONSE TEAM First Reading Ord. #6005-96 - providing for notice by certified mail, return receipt requested, or by personal service within 5 days after real property is posted (re Lot Clearing) Current code requires staff give a property owner a copy of the notice of violation on or before the date a property is posted for a lot clearing violation. Mailing the notice after the property is posted would be more efficient and less time-consuming. All research on real property and/or vehicle ownership must be completed before notice can be mailed. Currently, the inspector must make one extra visit to the property. Under the proposed amendment, the property owner will still have a minimum of 10 days to comply. Lt. Jeff Kronschnabl, Special Assistant to the City Manager/Community Response Team, said the proposed procedure would be more effective. Concern was expressed property owners may not have adequate time to address the problem if the notice is sent five days after the property is posted. Lt. Kronschnabl estimated grass on overgrown lots is 15 inches high when the property is posted. He suggested if extra days are granted, added growth time would attract rodents to the lot. He said a notice of five days has proved sufficient for years and indicated some properties are posted repeatedly. Staff was requested to ensure property owners be provided a reasonable amount of time to comply. GAS GAS SYSTEM Confirm a 20 year Interruptible Transportation Service Agreement with Florida Gas Transmission, Houston, TX, providing for transportation of natural gas on an interruptible basis to the gate stations CGS' (Clearwater Gas System) gas supplier, FGT (Florida Gas Transmission) has terminated all interruptible contracts and tendered updated contracts to supply natural gas to CGS gate stations. FGT did not provide sufficient time to include this item on the City Commission Agenda. The City Manager signed an assent to the Market Area Interruptible Service Agreement subject to City Commission approval. The term of the agreement is for 20 years. Several CGS interruptible customers, such as National Linen and Clearwater Linen, could use this type of service. Referring to interruptible service, Gas System Managing Director Chuck Warrington explained the City has a class of customers who receive service on an interruptible basis and agree to be interrupted for a discounted rate. In answer to a question, Mr. Warrington said interruptible service is available to large users. It was suggested the Interruptible Transportation Service Agreement would be affected by new rate schedules. Mr. Warrington said the agreement allows the City to use the rates if they so choose and protects the City's interests as FGT is Florida's only pipe line supplier. In answer to a question, Mr. Warrington did not think delaying implementation of the agreement would be beneficial. He predicted numerous rate revisions will occur over the years. Approve Clearwater Gas System’s continued participation with the Florida Municipal Natural Gas Association (FMNGA) in the joint municipal representation of Federal and State regulatory issues through use of legal counsels based in Washington, D. C. and Tallahassee, FL, and pay related annual FMNGA shared expenses (04/05/96 -04/04/97), at an estimated $60,000 FMNGA (Florida Municipal Natural Gas Association), an association of 17 municipally owned natural gas utilities, authorities, and districts in Florida, provides joint representation of municipal issues on industry, legislative, regulatory and pipeline issues. FMNGA's primary functions are to represent member utilities before the FERC (Federal Energy Regulatory Commission), FPSC (Florida Public Service Commission), and other Federal and State regulatory agencies, and to monitor State legislative sessions on member utilities' behalf. Sharing expenses lowers overall costs for members. FMNGA also leverages the municipal group's voice. The City has participated in FMNGA joint representation since 1990. FMNGA has retained the Miller, Balis & O'Neil firm as Washington D. C. counsel on Federal issues and William J. Peebles as Tallahassee counsel on State issues. CGS pays a $0.05/meter dues assessment to FMNGA. Federal issues are billed to participating members based on a formula using meter count and pipeline capacity. CGS spent $18,735.20 last year on FMNGA related shared expenses. All changes in FGT's tariff require FERC approval and affects the cost of service to CGS and their customers. FMNGA activities serve to lower the cost of supply gas for CGS' customers. Mr. Warrington estimated membership in FMNGA has lowered CGS legal bills by 80%. The organization represents municipally owned utilities regarding rate cases. In answer to a question, he said the item is budgeted in the administration section of the budget. Most activities of this organization are refundable activities, recoverable directly from CGS customers. He estimated the FMNGA saved the CGS $100,000 in the last rate case. GS GENERAL SERVICES Authorize addition of one Tradesworker I position for the Building & Maintenance Division to assume tasks & duties of the outsourced heating, ventilating & air-conditioning filter replacement program which no longer is cost effective to privatize The HVAC (heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning) filter replacement program was privatized in 1993. Due to increasing costs, outsourcing this program is no longer cost-effective. In April 1993, the initial bid solicitation was $11,950.85. The City experienced poor performance from its vendors. Bids received in 1995 increased to $30,012 and $38,145. Staff estimated labor and associated costs during a 3-month test. Handling the program in-house would result in an estimated annual saving between $10,181 and $14,117 and a possibly higher degree of quality control. It was questioned if benefit costs and projected cost of living adjustments were factored into the estimates. General Services Director William Baird said those costs and labor, materials, and vehicle use expenses were considered. He said the savings would continue for several years. Staff can review this issue in the future. When the program was privatized, the City still provided operating supplies such as filters, etc.. EN ENGINEERING (Cont'd from 03/21/96) Public Hearing - Recommended approval of City’s request to vacate that portion of the North/South alley lying West of Lots 3, 4, 5, and 6 and East of Lots 7, 8, 9, and 10 in Blk 3, Pine Crest Sub. and deny the request to vacate the alley West of Lots 1 and 2 and East of Lots 11 and 12 (City, V96-03B) This item was continued to accommodate stated concerns. 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 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 has 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 has existing utility services within the alleys. The City Engineer concurs with Engineering Services' recommendation to vacate the Southerly portion of the alley. Engineering Director Rich Baier said ballards and stationary reflective barricades will block one end of the alley. It was felt this was a good solution to property owner concern. Public Hearing - Declare surplus for the purpose of granting a Distribution Easement (DE) to Florida Power Corp., Sec. 29-28-16, M&B 22.04, a/k/a Countryside Community Park, and thereupon approve grant of DE to Florida Power Countryside Recreation Center is being constructed in Countryside Community Park. Construction features include site work, parking, and building. Completion is scheduled for August 15, 1996. Florida Power Corporation has requested a blanket Distribution Easement over the park property for the purpose of providing electrical services to the facility. Staff recommends granting the Distribution Easement to allow installation of electrical services to the new facility, and to provide for future services as may be required. In answer to a question, Mr. Baier said he would report on Thursday regarding the City's request to annex this property. The City Manager said Florida Power had indicated they were willing to work with the City to annex Florida Power property to avoid enclave creation. They are not prepared to provide blanket approval. Concern was expressed regarding Florida Power's plans to install additional equipment. Mr. Baier will report on that issue on Thursday. Public Hearing - Declare surplus for the purpose of selling City-owned property, Island Estates of Clearwater, Unit 5, Blk D, Lot 7; authorize it be offered by advertised bid for the price of not less than $213,500 The lot at 205 Windward Passage, zoned Commercial General, was acquired in May 1991 in exchange for 57 acres of City-owned "Sludge Farm" property in Hillsborough County. Each parcel was valued by appraisal at $430,000 at the time of exchange. Staff could not obtain State permits for the planned City-owned marina. Staff feels a marina development is the only practical use for the lot. In January 1996, a developer questioned the City Commission if the lot was available for purchase. A property appraisal was authorized and a sign was posted to ascertain if others might be interested in purchasing the lot. Several additional parties have called for information and indicated their wish to be informed if the property is offered for sale. On March 12, 1996, State Certified Appraiser William H. Caldwell performed the summary appraisal. In his Letter of Transmittal, Mr. Caldwell estimates the lot's current market value is $213,500. If the parcel is declared surplus to City needs, it will be offered for sale to the public by the City's advertised bid process for not less than the current appraised value. It was suggested the City may need the slips in the future. Mr. Baier said the water's high copper content in this basin area precludes the City from obtaining the necessary permits. Paint with a copper base is applied to the bottom of boats to inhibit barnacle growth. Area businesses are permitted to wash scraped particles of copper based paint off their property into the static basin. The appraisal's level was questioned. Mr. Baier said property values recently decreased on Island Estates and assessed values are lower. It was questioned if an overwhelming need to sell this lot exists. It was suggested another appraisal should be ordered. The City Manager noted money from the property's sale would go into the sewer fund. Mr. Baier said a developer has indicated an purchasing interest in three adjoining lots and combining them with Lot 7, but has not stated any plans for the property. The City Manager said the City Commission can set any price on the property. The City Attorney recommended the City obtain additional appraisals if they want to sell above this appraisal. Contract for Traffic Engineering Services Field Operations Complex to Hennessy Construction Services Corp., St. Petersburg, FL, 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. The City Manager said staff has looked for alternative City-owned sites. Concern was expressed the facility could be disruptive for plans to develop the East End property. It was questioned if the building will be compatible with the proposed residential development. Mr. Baier said the project was coordinated with the former executive director of the CRA (Community Redevelopment Agency). The City Manager said staff would prefer to locate the facility in the North Hercules area. The City does not own enough property there and the City Commission had directed staff not to purchase more property. It was suggested the facility could be constructed in the area of the Airpark or near the Solid Waste property. The City Manager referred to Solid Waste plans to develop a fuel farm to refuel vehicles. Mr. Baier said the operation would be quiet, not industrial, and would include parking meter repair, indoor storage of sign materials, etc. In answer to a question, Mr. Baier did not recommend moving the traffic signal computer to this facility. Mr. Baier said the facility will require several acres. The City Manager recommended against hurricane hardening the facility. Mr. Baier said the CRA did not object to the facility because the implementation of the entire downtown plan will not occur in the near future. Even if the facility is eventually affected by the development plan, Mr. Baier felt the City would get good use out of the building in the meantime. Concern was expressed the facility may have a negative impact on a proposed entertainment complex. The City Manager said the operation could remain at the City Hall Annex as long as it is feasible. Personnel would be housed in temporary quarters elsewhere if a good offer is made for the annex property. It was indicated the proposed building would not be movable. Assistant City Manager Bill Baker said the facility may provide an impetus for other property development nearby. It was suggested the property may have a better future use as a parking lot. License Agreement with PCS PrimeCo, L.P., a Delaware Limited Partnership, licensing to its non-exclusive use City communications towers at 3290 SR 580 and 1400 Young Street, and the North Water Tank at 1751 Kings Highway, for the purpose of installing & operating Personal Communications Systems (PCS) equipment for an initial 5 year term, with option to automatically extend for 4 additional terms of 5 years each, unless the City is timely notified to the contrary, providing for initial year lump sum annual rent payment of $37,800 payable upon the License commencement date, increasing 4% annually thereafter, due and payable in single annual installments upon each anniversary of the commencement date PrimeCo (PCS PrimeCo, L P) is a consortium of communications companies: 1) Bell Atlantic PCS, Inc.; 2) NYNEX PCS, Inc.; 3) Airtouch Communications; and 4) U.S. West, Inc. PrimeCo proposes to install PCS equipment on three City structures: 1) communications towers at the Northeast Treatment Plant; 2) communications tower at 1400 Young Street on land under 99-year lease until 2075 to the City by FDOT (Florida Department of Transportation); and 3) the City's North Water Tank at 1751 Kings Highway. Installation at each site will include ground base communications equipment on a concrete pad not to exceed 375 square feet linked by coaxial cable to 9 antennae in 3 arrays at structure elevations of 115 to 120 feet. 24-hour access to the sites is available if PrimeCo coordinates with responsible City departments. The initial 5-year term of the license will begin no later than 60 days following City Commission approval. PrimeCo shall establish the commencement date by providing the City Attorney written notification at least 10 days before it wishes to access the sites to begin construction. The licenses will automatically extend for up to 4 additional 5-year terms unless PrimeCo gives the City written notice to the contrary not less than 30 days prior to expiration of the current term. In answer to a question, it was indicated this agreement would not preclude from allowing other communication antennae. The City Manager recommended funds from this license agreement be deposited in General Services fund revenue and earmarked for the maintenance of these structures. Pinellas Trail Mr. Baier reported meeting with the City Attorney, Mr. Baker and representatives from Pinellas County regarding Pinellas Trail. CSX was concerned the City had allowed them the use of a wide portion of East Street years ago. The railroad has forwarded these concerns to the County during the past several years. A question was raised regarding the point of measurement for the recorded easement. The desired 18-foot separation falls within the 10 foot sidewalk on the West side of East Street. Mr. Baier noted confusion in correspondence regarding the existing use of East Street. He and the Assistant City Attorney will meet with CSX in Jacksonville to explain the current use of the rail line on East Street and see if other features can be included to increase CSX's comfort level regarding pedestrians, etc. He estimated two trains use the tracks daily. Mr. Baier estimated these concerns may delay the completion of the trail for several months. He suggested if staff acts quickly, the trail may be completed by late Fall 1996. In answer to a question, Mr. Baier said the trail ended at Belleview due to Clearwater's segment not being finalized. It was requested the trail be completed in the most expeditious manner. The City Attorney said although there is no intention to change the route, she recommended keeping all options open. The route may need to be altered due to CSX concerns CM ADMINISTRATION Harborview Caterer Contract Deputy City Manager Kathy Rice said the new contract would be distributed to the Commission this afternoon. She referred to the latest available draft, noting the definition of gross receipts on page 2 is unclear and would be changed to reflect all monies collected are part of the gross receipts. GFS (Globe Facility Services, Inc.) General Manager Barry Strafacci referred to page 11 and indicated financial considerations should be paid on an accrual basis. Advance deposits collected should not be considered until the event occurs. Event expenses do not occur until the event takes place. The management fee and commission are not paid until the event occurs. In answer to a question, Mr. Strafacci said there are very few uncollectable accounts. In answer to a question, GFS President Mich Sauers said deposits are not returned when events are canceled. Mr. Strafacci said a credit valid for 12 months is offered. It was recommended that contracts for GFS and the caterer expire at the same time. Ms. Rice said the catering firm is lending the Harborview Center money to purchase equipment. The proposed contract would give them enough time to recoup their investment. Mr. Strafacci said according to industry standards, catering contracts range from 5 to 10 years. Mr. Sauers suggested the City may want the concessionaire to remain past the expiration of the GFS contract so both services do not change at the same time. He said the proposed contract is structured so all parties are motivated to generate revenue and profit. The Boston Group's offer to lend the Harborview Center up to $250,000, with $100,000 interest free was questioned. Mr. Strafacci said no serving equipment had been purchased. The funds are needed for rolling stock, catering equipment, and other things not budgeted. The caterer also may need office space. In answer to a question, Mr. Strafacci said the caterer is not purchasing the equipment because they do not need to own it. Once the equipment is purchased, it is owned by the City. He noted the value of kitchen equipment diminishes quickly. Mr. Sauers said the City is not obligated to use the total loan. A comparison of the City's bottom line according to alternate payment methods prepared by Commissioner-elect Seel was distributed. Ms. Rice stated language from a deleted section of the draft will be reinstated indicating the Boston Group will reimburse any deficit. The cost of utilities also will be addressed. Mr. Strafacci said the caterer will pay for dumpster facilities on a pro rata basis. Ms. Rice said staff will distribute answers to written questions posed by Commissioner Berfield. In answer to a question, Mr. Sauers cautioned outlawing the sale of tobacco would preclude GFS from booking a cigar trade show. The building is smoke-free. A spreadsheet listing similar facilities in the State was requested. Mr. Strafacci said facilities release gross figures, not profits. In answer to a question, Ms. Rice said the records are public but information regarding profits often is difficult to identify. It was suggested that collection costs be considered. Mr. Strafacci said losses are deducted from gross sales. He indicated the Boston Group had suggested the $15,000 administration fee. He predicted this agreement will save the Center $30,000 in expenses. It was recommended the caterer be paid off the net rather than the gross. Mr. Sauers said 55 contracts are pending a decision regarding the caterer. Mr. Strafacci said equipment could be shipped within five days of a contract agreement. Staff will prepare a spread sheet comparing the management fee method with the commission method. Mr. Strafacci believed the City will make more money with a management fee basis agreement. It was noted the Commission wants the Harborview Center to be profitable and not a drain on the City. The meeting recessed from 10:47 to 11:01 a.m. Direction re Memorial Civic Center Welcome Center The City Manager reviewed four alternatives for operating the Beach Welcome Center which serves approximately 50,000 visitors per year. The Clearwater Chamber of Commerce answers questions in response to members who pay a fee for representation. She believed a staff operation would be more equitable and least controversial. It was indicated Tourism Director Jean Sherry would not be unduly burdened by overseeing the center. The Clearwater Chamber of Commerce can continue to operate the center for a short time until the City comes up with a proposal. It was noted those who staff the center should know the business. Concern was expressed a smooth transition occur. Consensus was for the City Manager to send a letter to the Clearwater Chamber of Commerce requesting they continue serving the Memorial Civic Center Welcome Center. The City Manager expressed concern regarding establishing measurable standards in a RFP Prioritize Discussion Items The City Manager reviewed a list of items the City Commission had indicated they wished to discuss. Discussion ensued regarding the prioritization of Commission discussion items. High priority items include Commission rules and policies and City Hall renovation. It was indicated the budget process will be starting for next fiscal year. It was recommended to use the budget as a baseline for accomplishing some priority items. The City Manager said the budget should be completed by the end of April. The City Manager noted the need to be more informed regarding economic development and recommended bringing in outside people such as chamber leaders, university people, etc. to share experiences. Discussion ensued regarding the CRA plan and if it should be revisited. Controversy regarding the plan by affected parties was noted. CRA existence was ranked a top priority by some. The City Manager suggested addressing property purchase, sale and lease during strategic planning. It was suggested, in some instances, to consider community needs instead of the highest use of a property. Some discussion ensued regarding open space/recreation property leases. Changing the election date to the end of March and the non-partisan issue were discussed. The City Manager said suggested agenda format changes will be forthcoming. It was suggested to add page numbers to the bottom of items. It was questioned if some agenda item attachments can be reduced. It was indicated the City uses recycled paper whenever possible. The City Manager said faxing information to the Commission is less expensive than messenger service. It was noted three Commissioners sit on the Pension Advisory Committee and it was questioned if the entire Commission requires attachments to the Pension Trustees’ agenda items. The City Manager expressed concern in meeting the window of opportunity for purchasing vehicles as the agenda process currently requires agenda items to be prepared weeks in advance. Discussion ensued regarding Commission distribution of agenda packets. Consensus was for packets to be delivered to Commissioners no later than the Wednesday before the Monday Work Session. Discussion ensued in regard to PACT (Performing Arts Community Theater) funding. Consensus was to continue funding. The City Manager noted this issue will be addressed as part of the budget process. Discussion ensued regarding beach issues such as redevelopment, tourism, parking, etc. The City Manager said the City has not reached a conclusion regarding many beach issues and recommended bringing the issues back for discussion. In response to a question, it was indicated the beach sidewalk issue involved the West side of Mandalay Avenue and was put on hold until the redevelopment study is completed. Discussion ensued regarding the skateboard ordinance. The City Attorney said it is being prepared and will address private and public property. Discussion ensued regarding department overviews and if they should be started up again. It was suggested these overviews could be a part of the budget process. Consensus was to schedule special work sessions to discuss prioritized items on: 1) Monday, April 8, 1996, from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m.; 2) Tuesday, April 16, 1996, from 10:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.; and 3) Monday, May 6, 1996, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon. It was felt it is urgent for the City Commission to meet with the City's lobbyist, Jim Massie, regarding beach renourishment and the replacement of the Memorial Causeway Bridge. It was noted Mr. Massie has a copy of the City's legislative package and will file a report after the session is completed. For better response to concerns, The City Manager recommended Commissioners travel to Tallahassee and address officials in person. The City Attorney cautioned Commissioners not to lobby together. OTHER CITY ATTORNEY ITEMS Extension Request Regarding Move to City The City Attorney said she has had difficulty selling her house and requested a second six-month extension to the City Attorney's contract requirement that she move to Clearwater. Request will be scheduled for formal action Thursday night. City Manager Verbal Reports Park on Sand Key Parks & Recreation Department Director Ream Wilson said to support beach renourishment, the City purchased property for parking across Gulf Boulevard from the Ultimar development. Sand Key residents have requested the City move forward with plans to develop the park. Staff recommends developing the park in two phases. The first phase may include tennis courts, shuffleboard, a children's playground and a few parking spaces. If needed, the meadow will be developed during Phase II when renourishment requires constructing those parking spaces. PBS&J (Post, Buckley, Schuh, & Jernigan, Inc.) is working on a design that is mindful of nearby condominiums. He said development of the first phase could begin in a few months. As beach renourishment may not occur, he recommended against constructing 70 parking spaces until it is necessary. In answer to a question, Mr. Wilson said money is being moved from next fiscal year for the development's first phase. The City Manager said the park, referred to as the "tombstone" property, needs to be named. Regional and Miscellaneous Boards The City Manager said the Commission generally appoints members to regional and miscellaneous boards during the Commission's second meeting in April. Noting several regional boards plan to discuss important issues before them, she recommended making the following appointments Thursday: Mayor Garvey: Florida League of Cities Board of Directors; Emergency Medical Services Advisory Council; Mayor’s Council of Pinellas County; ex-officio to DDB; Chi Chi Youth Foundation Trustees; Pension Advisory Committee; and St. Petersburg/Clearwater Economic Development Council; Commissioner Johnson: Tampa Bay Regional Planning Council; Pension Advisory Committee and Pinellas Sports Authority; Commissioner Clark: Pension Advisory Committee; Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority; and Metropolitan Planning Organization; Commissioner Seel: Performing Arts Center & Theater Board of Directors and Pinellas Planning Council; Commissioner Hooper: Jolley Trolley Transportation of Clearwater, Inc., Board of Directors and Homeless Task Force. Commission members will rotate attending Suncoast League of Municipalities Board of Directors' meetings. The CRA Vice-Chair (to be appointed) will be the second DDB ex-officio member. The City Attorney will verify if current PAC (Pension Advisory Committee) Commission members or their designees automatically continue on that board. Advisory Board Dinner The City Manager reported the Advisory Board Dinner is scheduled for April 2, 1996. Florida Trend Insert The City Manager referred to the Florida Trend insert that features Clearwater. New utility customers are being forwarded a copy. City hotels, motels, and the Chamber of Commerce have supplies. It was suggested to send the insert to business connections and potential contacts instead of utility customers. The City Manager said new residents often are not aware of the positive aspects of the City. She felt the insert sends a positive message to citizens. It was suggested the inserts should be distributed before they become stale sitting on shelves. Other Commission Action Commissioner Clark noted the C-View schedule was not listed in this week's TV Dial. Assistant Director of Information Management Laura Crook said TV Dial prints C-View's schedules on a space available basis. Commissioner Johnson recommended eliminating preferred parking in front of certain Cleveland Street businesses such as the Harley Davidson shop. The City Manager indicated a request for motorcycle parking had been made. The City issues citations when more than one motorcycle shares a parking space. Staff plans to move the motorcycle spaces away from the front of the motorcycle shop when the Pinellas Trail is built and East Street parking is removed. Commissioner Clark noted the Trail may not be built for a year. He recommended addressing these spaces now. He expressed concern the business had used a parking space to display a sign on a chair. Commissioner Hooper noted owners of expensive motorcycles are concerned about parking their vehicles out of their sight in Station Square Park's lot. The Mayor suggested an ordinance change to permit two motorcycles to park in one parking space in the downtown district only. The City Attorney will review that recommendation. Consensus was to restripe the parking spaces for cars in front of the Harley Davidson shop. Commissioner Johnson suggested the Commission consider merging the CRA and DDB. The City Manager recommended discussing this at the next CRA meeting. She indicated some constraints may exist. Commissioner Johnson referred to problems regarding the installation of holiday decorations this past season and suggested staff handle the work. The City Manager said the City has no remaining decorations since the City determined it is less expensive to contract this work than maintaining and storing expensive decorations. She said the contract was canceled for non performance and another RFP will be issued. Commissioner Seel referred to the proposed extension of Landmark Drive and recommended scheduling a Town Meeting to address this issue. She expressed concern nearby residents do not understand the legal ramifications of alternative choices. The Mayor noted time constraints require the issue be addressed quickly. Commissioner Johnson said the Commission has discussed this issue many times. Commissioner Seel said many residents are misinformed and felt the issue could be explained in one seating. The Mayor said the issue is scheduled for discussion on April 18, 1996. The City Manager said the developer of property on the proposed extension has a legal right of access. The Mayor expressed concern permits will expire if this issue is delayed further. Commissioner Seel noted the last time this item was addressed, residents were emotional and did not listen to the legal issues. Commissioner Seel reported State Representative Larry Crow has indicated a willingness to help locate funding for the proposed Memorial Causeway Bridge replacement. She recommended formally requesting State Congressman Safley and U. S. Congressman Bilirakis to help the City gain funding. Staff will prepare letters for Pinellas Legislative Delegation members and have them ready for Commissioners' signatures on Thursday. Commissioner Seel requested an update on the Municipal Services building. Mr. Baker said the project is on target and within budget. He recommended funds allotted for contingencies be spent on City Hall renovations. The $500,000 allotted in the budget for City Hall will cover moving walls and paint, not expenses related to upgrading Chambers. Commissioner Clark referred to minutes from the last Planning & Zoning Board and questioned the Assistant City Attorney's comments to members that visiting sites is not appropriate. The City Attorney noted some cities consider visiting sites as ex parte communication. She will report back on that issue. Commissioner Clark questioned how the issue regarding high tech industries is proceeding. Central Permitting Director Scott Shuford said PPC (Pinellas Planning Council) staff has developed rules regarding this issue. He indicated the rules appear to accommodate the City. He predicted the County Commission will address the issue in June 1996. Commissioner Clark expressed concern too many copies of certain items are distributed to all Commission members. The Mayor suggested retaining those items in a read file. The City Manager said staff will mark letters identifying who will reply. Commissioner Clark requested comments and suggestions include their source. Mayor Garvey questioned if Mr. Massie is working to see the legislature allocates money for Sand Key beach renourishment. The City Manager will report on this activity. Mayor Garvey reported she has been invited to Chicago to be part of Herb Brown's outgoing ceremony as president of Rotary International. Commissioner Clark said this is a huge honor for Clearwater. Consensus was for the Mayor to attend. Adjourn The meeting adjourned at 1:00 p.m.