02/18/1997 CITY COMMISSION WORK SESSION
CITY OF CLEARWATER
February 18, 1997
Present: Rita Garvey Mayor/Commissioner
J. B. Johnson Vice-Mayor/Commissioner
Robert Clark Commissioner
Ed Hooper Commissioner
Karen Seel Commissioner
Elizabeth M. Deptula City Manager
Kathy S. Rice Deputy City Manager
Bob Keller Assistant City Manager
Pamela K. Akin City Attorney (arrived 10:31 a.m.)
Cynthia E. Goudeau City Clerk
Patricia O. Sullivan Board Reporter
The meeting was called to order at 10:05 a.m. at the Municipal Services Building. Prior to the meeting, the Commission met in attorney/client session regarding Patrick Media vs. the
City and Patrick Media vs. the City of Clearwater Municipal Enforcement Board.
Service Awards
Eight service awards were presented to City employees.
Michael Willis, Marina Department, was presented the February 1997 Employee of the Month award.
The Commission recessed from 10:16 to 10:26 a.m. to meet as the CRA (Community Redevelopment Agency).
PRESENTATIONS
Chi Chi Rodriguez Youth Foundation/Glen Oaks Golf Course
Chi Chi Rodriguez Foundation wishes to renovate the old maintenance building on the grounds of Glen Oaks Golf Course. The agreement between the City and Chi Chi Rodriguez Foundation
requires City approval for any physical changes or for the construction of permanent facilities on the leased property.
George Miller, representative for HCB Contractors, distributed pictures of the maintenance building, noting the structure’s poor condition. Renovation work will be done pro bono.
No concerns were raised against proceeding.
GAS GAS SYSTEM
Joint Project Agreement with FDOT to relocate natural gas mains during widening of SR 586, at an estimated $637,026.10; Res. #97-07 re JPA authorizing execution of agreements for
installation and acceptance of new City facilities and placing of funds with FDOT for completion of utility installation
The FDOT (Florida Department of Transportation) project to widen SR 586 (Curlew Road) from just East of US 19N (69th Street) to SR 584 (Tampa Road) is scheduled to begin September 15,
1997. According to the JPA (Joint Project Agreement), FDOT’s general contractor will relocate gas mains during the project, allowing this work to be done in a timely manner with a minimum
of conflict and traffic interruption and releasing CGS (Clearwater Gas System) from potential penalty payments due to project delays. All restoration costs also are saved as the general
contractor is responsible for these costs under the Agreement. The JPA provides for labor only at an estimated cost to CGS of $637,026.10, which includes replacement of the subaquous
crossing of the Lake Tarpon Outflow Canal which is in conflict with the new bridge. CGS will provide materials for this project from existing inventory at an estimated cost of $60,900.
The City Manager indicated the project will not impact other City utilities. Staff will report on sidewalk construction plans. CGS Managing Director Chuck Warrington said costs are
estimated as work may not occur for 18 months. FDOT will identify line-by-line expenses after the project is bid. Additional costs to the City for design preparation and engineering
surveys were noted.
EN ENGINEERING
Public Hearing & First Reading Ord. #6125-97 - Vacating W 2.5’ of S 45’ of 5’ North/South Utility Easement lying in Lot 17, Blk I, Northwood Estates Tract F, less Southerly 5’(Bill and
Stephany Broome, V96-16)
The applicants propose to install a screen enclosure around an existing swimming pool and concrete deck that encroach into the easement. The City has no existing or proposed utilities
within the subject easement. Public utilities have reviewed the request and have no objections. City departments concerned with vacations have reviewed the application and have stated
no objections. The City Engineer recommends approval.
In response to a question, Engineering Director Rich Baier said swimming pools and decks occasionally encroach into City easements by one or two feet. This lot has a pond piped behind
it but this request refers to a different easement.
Contract for 1997 Tennis Court Resurfacing to Welch Tennis Courts, Inc., St. Petersburg, FL, for $30,971
The Parks & Recreation Department has a rotating schedule for resurfacing tennis courts. FY (fiscal year) 1996/97 plans include resurfacing and patching 11 tennis courts: 1) 8 courts
at McMullen Tennis Complex, 1000 Edenville Avenue and 2) 3 courts at the Martin Luther Complex, 1201 Martin Luther King Avenue. Resurfacing will restore playability to original condition.
Concern was expressed only two firms responded to the bidding process. It was felt this is a continuing problem. Mr. Baier said the project’s specifications are high and require some
specialized work.
Agreement with Pinellas County for utility installation by roadway contractor, construction of Union Street, from Soule Rd. to McMullen Booth Rd., for estimated $275,400
Pinellas County has designed the project to widen Union Street between Soule and McMullen-Booth Roads. Construction is expected to be completed this summer to serve the new Pinellas
County school this fall. The project will require relocation or adjustment of the City’s water and sanitary sewer mains and appurtenances. The Engineering Department has worked with
Pinellas County to coordinate the design for these utility accommodations. Pinellas County will accept competitive bids for the road widening and utility relocation work and award a
contract to the lower bidder. Estimated costs are $226,584 for the water line relocation and $48,816 for the sanitary utility relocation. Exact expenses will be determined by the contractor’s
bid.
It was recommended staff consider all future service needs at this time. Mr. Baier will verify the project includes sidewalks. MPO (Metropolitan Planning Organization) policy to construct
roads wide enough to accommodate bicycles is not State law. Union Street is a County road but the City is responsible for moving its utilities. In response to a question, Mr. Baier
said sewer lines cost less to relocate as water lines are governed by more rigorous requirements.
Modification to Work Order to Post, Buckley, Schuh & Jernigan, Inc., for additional FDOT Design Requirements for Drew Street Widening Project, from Highland Ave. to NE Coachman Rd.,
increasing the amount $59,065
On July 20, 1995, the Commission approved a Work Order for PBS&J (Post, Buckley, Schuh & Jernigan, Inc.) for project design to widen Drew Street between Highland Avenue and NE Coachman
Road. The proposed design will widen Drew Street to five lanes with a continuous turn lane and necessary improvements at major intersections. On June 1, 1995, the Commission approved
a Letter of Understanding with FDOT (Florida Department of Transportation) to define responsibilities and funding for the project’s design. The project design, approximately 60% complete,
is in FDOT’s quality review process.
FDOT has established additional standard design steps to all projects and requested design additions for this project: 1) extend survey on NE Coachman Road; 2) extend Right-of-way Control
Survey and revise right-of-way maps on NE Coachman Road; 3) construct Vehicular Counting and Classification Station; 4) erect school zone advance warning signs and flashing lights;
5) design temporary traffic signal; 6) estimate engineer’s cost; 7) analyze Groundwater Zone of Influence; and 8) extend Geotechnical Subsurface Investigations, testing, and analysis
on NE Coachman Road.
A FDOT team negotiated the fee of $59,065 for the additional design services. According to the schedule, final plans will be completed in August 1997, right-of-way acquisition will
begin in October 1997, and the project will be let for bid in August 2000.
It was questioned why FDOT is requiring two left turn lanes off Drew Street onto NE Coachman Road which has only one Eastbound lane. Oliver Perdomo, of FDOT District VII, said the
design plans for the future. He said a single turn lane would result in considerable back-up. Without the changes, the road would have a failing LOS (Level of Service). The State
considers these additions part of the project. The County project to widen Drew Street begins East of the NE Coachman Road intersection. Mr. Perdomo said the project always included
plans for two turn lanes onto NE Coachman Road. Design changes are needed to taper the two lanes on NE Coachman Road to one. Concern was expressed the design will cause hazardous conditions.
In response to a question, Mr. Baier said the project has not exceeded the approximately $4-million budget the Commission had committed but noted these changes are outside the project’s
original scope. He said staff could address FDOT regarding items of concern to the Commission. Mr. Perdomo said according to the agreement with FDOT, the City agreed to finance the
project’s design in hopes of advancing the project. He reported the State has not purchased right-of-way for this project. He said the Vehicular Counting and Classification Station,
to be installed under the road, has been a State requirement for 5 years but was omitted by error from the original scope of work. Mr. Baier said this station will be advantageous to
the City.
In response to a question, PBS&J Project Manager Kevin Coughlin said the project always included a traffic signal at the Drew Street/NE Coachman Road intersection. He said 300 meters
is adequate for two lanes to merge. Mr. Baier stated the letter of understanding was conceptual and did not contract specific items. The City had agreed to provide design services
for this project. The City Manager said this request modifies the contract with PBS&J, not the State. Staff was requested to report how much the City had committed to this project
and how much had been spent. It was felt the City should have the ability to reject this bid.
In response to a question, Mr. Perdomo said the school zone advance warning signs and flashing lights also were omitted from the original scope. It was suggested the State should pay
for design changes instituted in the past year. Mr. Baier said he can try to renegotiate with the consultant and discuss the City’s burden with FDOT. He recommended constructing a
Vehicular Counting and Classification Station and erecting school zone advance warning signs and flashing lights, regardless of State funding. The City is responsible for relocating
City utilities. The project is slated to begin in 2000, 10 years earlier that previously planned. It was requested that FDOT assure the City no more design changes will be requested.
Beach Parking Discussion
a) Parking Feasibility Overview
Mr. Baier said the Kimberly-Horn and Associates, Inc. July 1996, parking feasibility study for Clearwater beach considered current deficits and redevelopment issues. The study indicates
current conditions do not justify a parking garage. The Civic Center property is the recommended site when one is justified. The study found additional parking is needed approximately
30 days per year. Parking is largely adequate during the remainder of the year, although locating a space instantly is not always possible. Future development/redevelopment could result
in a 300 space parking shortfall during 65 to 70 days per year.
Parking Facilities Manager Tracey Bruch reported staff had instituted some recommendations 1) signed Civic Center lot to “allow” Marina patrons, ½ meters - 1 hour limit, ½ meters -
5 hour limit; 2) installed change machine at Marina; 3) as leases expire, eliminating Marina lease provision for reserved spaces; 4) determined appropriate time limits for business and
beach district; 5) installed trailblazing signs; and 6) Police Department agreed to increase meter enforcement.
Staff is in the process of instituting some recommendations: 1) restriping where possible to meet code by redesigning Civic Center lot. Aisle width of Pier 60 and South Gulfview lots
inadequate for conversion to 90( parking; 2) sent request letter to FDOT in October 1996, to install crosswalk between Civic Center and Marina. Expected resolution pending; and 3) shifting
enforcement to the Parking System under consideration.
Staff is evaluating some recommendations: 1) install changeable message sign on West end of Causeway; 2) identify short and long term parking meters with color-coded housings. Ordered
for small section of Marina; and 3) future development and redevelopment plans to be addressed as element of proposed beach CRA.
Staff is not pursuing recommendations: 1) park and ride system. Will reevaluate when new bridge plans are firm; 2) Civic Center property parking garage. Redevelopment plans could
change feasibility; 3) meter installation on Mandalay Avenue between Juanita and Royal Ways. East side currently metered adjacent to McKay Field. West side is residential without turnover
problem; 4) oppose northbound left turns into Parking Lot 32 North due to conflicts related to large number of pedestrians.
In response to a question, Ms. Bruch said the Coast Guard’s contract includes parking spaces in the Civic Center. A bicycle plan is being considered. The Mandalay streetscape plan
includes bicycle racks. Downtown Tampa’s program that provides orange-painted bicycles for public use will be tracked and considered for the beach. Current parking shortfalls during
the 30 annual days of inadequate parking was questioned.
b) Pelican Walk Parking Garage
Mr. Baier and Assistant City Manager Bob Keller are actively discussing a private/ public partnership with Pelican Walk. Mr. Keller said Pelican Walk originally proposed to build a
parking facility and have the City lease and operate it. The proposal is not cost free to the City.
c) Volunteer Handicapped Parking Enforcement Unit - City of St. Petersburg
The City Manager said a decision regarding shifting enforcement from the Police Department to the Parking System should be reached within a week. Mr. Baier said the City Attorney is
reviewing liability issues and the selection of equipment and volunteers. The MPO is working to standardize training County-wide. A cost and revenue analysis was requested. It was
noted St. Petersburg’s program currently makes a profit. Staff is researching data on other community programs.
Warnings in lieu of parking tickets
The City Manager said the Commission’s decision last year to provide 15 minute warnings instead of parking tickets on Clearwater beach is costing the City $0.25-million in potential
general fund revenue from fines. Mr. Baier said it is hard to quantify the monetary value of the resulting good will. The greatest number of warnings is issued to vehicles with Pinellas
County tags. The City Manager expressed concern people have learned how to abuse the system, noting a huge data base would be needed to track license tags.
Consensus was to discuss this issue after Spring Break and to ticket chronic misuses.
Flagler Drive
Mr. Baier said staff has met with the community to discuss Flagler Drive and neighborhood traffic patterns. Concern had been expressed regarding stop signs at every intersection along
Wood Drive. He noted hazardous conditions at the Flagler Drive/Bonair Street/Highland Avenue intersection are related to the railroad tracks and Flagler’s acute angle which will be
exacerbated by the Highland Avenue widening. He suggested Flagler Drive could be one-way with access limited to Northbound traffic off Highland Avenue. Staff will present illustrations
of the recommendations on Thursday. Mr. Baier will address concerns that Flagler Drive not be used as a raceway.
Hampton Request for Pedestrian Crossing
The PSTA (Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority) has requested City assistance in addressing Hampton residents’ requests for a pedestrian crossing at the bus stop on McMullen-Booth Road,
an arterial road, at Ruth Eckerd Hall. Mr. Baier said, based on traffic counts, the intersection does not merit a signal as it does not meet one MUTCD (Manual of Uniform Traffic Control
Devices) standard. He suggested a flashing sign could be installed or the Commission could direct staff or a consultant to weave together a justification for a signal. He recommended
consulting with the County Traffic Engineer regarding the possibility of a signal during peak times.
East End Property
In response to a question, Mr. Baier said the Fire Department sprayed the East End property to dampen dust being kicked up by recent high winds. Weekend rains helped the situation.
It was requested staff monitor the property.
Railroad Crossings
It was noted railroad crossings in Largo are smooth while many crossings in the City are not. Mr. Baier said next year’s budget will address several crossings. Although maintenance
of crossings is the railroad’s responsibility, the City must finance repairs if it ranks this as a priority issue. Staff will research the financing of Largo’s railroad crossings.
Garden Avenue Parking Garage
In response to a question, Mr. Baier said staff has begun design work on expanding the Garden Avenue Parking Garage. The two-story expansion is estimated to cost more than $3-million.
The cost of the original structure was requested. Concern was expressed the facility already requires an extensive upgrade. It was questioned if maintenance costs are normal. Mr.
Baier noted budget constraints affected the facility’s original design. He will report on the number of spaces in the proposed expansion and provide information on income from current
leases.
NE Coachman/Old Coachman Roads Intersection
In response to a question regarding the February 12, 1997, letter from Pinellas County, Mr. Baier will follow-up regarding a tri-party agreement to install sidewalk at the intersection
of NE Coachman Road, Old Coachman Road, and the railroad tracks and report on the proposed construction date.
The Commission recessed from 11:50 a.m. to 1:51 p.m. At 1:00 p.m., the City Commission attended the Grand Opening of the new Police Department Headquarters.
CP CENTRAL PERMITTING
Public Hearing & First Reading Ord. #6133-97 & #6134-97 - Annexation & RM-8 Zoning for property located at 2995 Union St., Sec. 5-29-16, M&B 11.01 (Attention Home, Inc., A96-23)
The applicant has requested annexation and proposed zoning of Multiple-Family Residential "Eight" (RM-8) for 2995 Union Street to obtain sewer service. On February 4, 1997, the Planning
& Zoning Board unanimously endorsed the request.
The subject property, approximately 655 feet North of Abby Lake Road, is an existing Group Home for abused and neglected boys licensed by the State as a “Youth Attention” facility with
a maximum of 12 beds/persons. It is proposed to assign the property a zoning classification of Multiple-Family Residential "Eight" (RM-8). Under City Code, this property will be considered
a Level III Group Care facility. Level III Group Care is not a permitted or conditional use in the RM-8 Zoning district. Therefore, this use is non-conforming. On June 8, 1995, the
Pinellas County Board of Adjustment approved the applicant’s request to permit a Category II Group Home as a “Special Exception.” Based on the existing 12 beds, the subject property
and its density will be “grandfathered” as a legally non-conforming facility with the City. The annexation request is processed in conformity with this density.
In response to a question, Central Permitting Director Scott Shuford said the City is honoring the County’s zoning. A nearby property on Sunset Point Road could not claim County zoning
because the subject fence was permitted and built after the property’s annexation into the City.
Public Hearing & First Reading Ord. #6123-97 & #6124-97 - Annexation & RM-8 Zoning for property located at 1300 Idlewild Dr., Brooklawn Sub., Blk F, Lots 7, 8, 14-16 & part 6 (Douglas
D. Rosenbaum, A97-02) (Staff recommending RS-8 Zoning)
The applicant has requested annexation and proposed zoning of Single-Family Residential "Eight" (RS-8) for 1300 Idlewild Drive to obtain sewer service. On February 4, 1997, the Planning
& Zoning Board unanimously endorsed the request. CNHS (Clearwater Neighborhood Housing Services) has a contract to purchase the vacant lots contingent upon the annexation. CNHS proposes
to construct single family residences.
In response to a question, Mr. Shuford said plans are to construct in-fill housing. Staff’s recommendation for single-family zoning conforms with the surrounding zoning pattern.
Status Report re Land Development Code Revision
The City Manager reviewed the aggressive schedule to approve the Land Development Code revision. The draft will be available next week for Commission review and agendaed for receipt
and referral in March.
CM ADMINISTRATION
Clearwater Festivals Status
Parks & Recreation Director Ream Wilson attached Terry Schmidt’s letter of resignation from Clearwater Festivals to his February 7, 1997, memorandum. Mr. Wilson recommended: 1) the
Commission approve cash contributions to the Fun ‘N Sun Festival, 4th of July Celebration, Jazz Holiday, and Saturdays in the City. He suggested a committee representing the Legal,
Finance, and Parks & Recreation departments develop “financial requirements” for special event sponsors receiving cash donations from the City; 2) the City release $34,720 budgeted for
the Fun ‘N Sun Festival and $10,000 budgeted for the 4th of July Celebration to David Everett who was elected President of Clearwater Festivals on February 5, 1997. According to minutes
of that meeting, Clearwater Festivals took appropriate action to eliminate shortcomings, including the retention of a CPA to handle Festival books and file all appropriate forms; and
3) allow Mr. Schmidt to continue working with Clearwater Festivals as City liaison. Mr. Wilson indicated Clearwater Festivals, Inc. is an extremely valuable community resource with
volunteers dedicated to the sole purpose of contributing toward outstanding special events in Clearwater.
In response to a question, Mr. Wilson said no City employees serve as Clearwater Festival board members. Staff is taking action to correct City issues. He reported plans for the Fun
‘N Sun Festival are underway. He said it would be difficult for Parks & Recreation to manage the funds due to purchasing constraints and the number of last minute purchases. Mr. Everett
was invited to attend the next Work Session.
In response to a question, Mr. Wilson reviewed Clearwater Festivals’ history. The organization is composed of volunteers interested in Special Events. Although Mr. Schmidt served
as president, Clearwater Festivals was never a City organization. Mr. Wilson said concern had been expressed regarding potential confusion with Mr. Schmidt “wearing two hats.” Mr.
Schmidt resigned from the committee to eliminate all perceptions that a conflict of interest may exist. Mr. Wilson expressed confidence no wrong doing had occurred.
Special Events
The City Manager recommended developing a Special Events committee representing City departments and the public to develop regulations regarding special event sponsors that receive
cash donations from the City. She reported committee work had begun. In response to a question, Mr. Wilson said the ordinance defines Special Events. Staff is considering ways to
streamline the process. The City Manager noted budgeting deadlines are approaching. In response to a question, Recreation Superintendent Steve Miller said the City sponsors many events.
Mr. Wilson said staff will inventory City support, noting many big events do not impact City staff. In response to a question, he suggested committee members could represent Parks
& Recreation, the Police, Traffic Engineering, the Marina, and Risk Management departments. Events will dictate if Public Service and Fire Department representation is recommended.
The City Manager said staff is working to define holes in the schedule. It was noted sporting events are responsible for 45,060 room nights.
Events at Pier 60
The City Manager recommended hiring a half-time position to begin in March 1997, to program more events at Pier 60 Park. Mr. Miller said staff has met with Sunsets at Pier 60 regarding
this issue. Sunsets at Pier 60 wants to expand its events to 7 days a week. but lacks a logistical person to coordinate events. In response to a question, Mr. Miller said a City employee
works as a sound technician for Coachman and Station Square Parks. It was suggested that person also handle the beach. It was noted the Farmers Market needs a coordinator to survive.
The City Manager said the City does not have the personnel needed to coordinate all current events. Mr. Wilson said programming for the Pavilion at Pier 60 Park requires pulling staff
from recreation centers. He reported beach organizations have recommended against private rentals of the Pavilion so the facility is always available for public use. It was suggested
usage be measured during a calendar year before reaching a decision regarding that issue.
In response to a question, Mr. Wilson indicated Sunsets at Pier 60 requested some assistance from the City when it was formed by volunteers several years ago. He said this recommendation
does not relate to those activities. A staff person is needed primarily to coordinate events at the Pavilion. Funds would be used for a 20-hour employee, equipment such as tables and
chairs, and professional services. He indicated private sponsorship of concerts is desirable. It was suggested a full-time person coordinate all events. Mr. Wilson said two employees
already work on City activities and Mr. Schmidt is hiring a half time assistant.
Consensus was to table this issue until everything related to Special Events is reviewed and an overall plan is developed.
Mr. Wilson recommended the City budget for last-minute activities requiring tents, portalets, etc.
CLK CITY CLERK
Direction re Beach Funding Legislation
The City Clerk questioned if the Commission wished to adopt a resolution in support of a bill to provide continuous funding for beach renourishment. She stated other countries charge
cruise ship passengers a head tax. No similar tax exists in Florida. It was felt cruise ship passengers are more closely linked to tourism than beach renourishment. The City Clerk
said maintaining navigational channels causes some beach erosion. A copy of the bill was requested.
Donor State Legislation
The City Clerk reported Senator Bob Graham is supporting Federal legislation to correct the detrimental formula that requires Florida to donate more transportation money than it receives.
Fast growing states are forming a coalition to address this issue.
OTHER CITY ATTORNEY ITEMS
FDOT Rule Process Participation
The City Attorney requested Commission approval to participate in the FDOT rule making process regarding billboards. She indicated proposed language is confusing and needs to be addressed.
Consensus was to approve the City Attorney’s participation.
City Manager Verbal Reports
Information re meeting and special activities
The City Manager gave a reminder regarding the Welcome Phillies activities on February 26, 1997, at 6:00 p.m. at the Harborview Center and the Clearwater beach Aquatic Meeting on March
10, 1997. Two Commissioners indicated March 10, was not a good date for them. March 17, 1997, will be scheduled.
Annual FLC (Florida League of Cities) Legislative Action Day
The City Manager requested Commissioners contact staff for reservations if they plan to attend the FLC Legislative Action Day in Tallahassee on April 9, 1997.
Economic Development Visions
The City Manager said an interdepartmental committee is working to establish economic development priorities. Mr. Keller recommended a quick response team be made up of the City Attorney,
Engineering Director, Central Permitting Director, and Community Development Director.
Mr. Keller reported the Economic Development position will be filled shortly. He recommended establishing interdepartmental cooperation instead of a permanent bureaucracy. He suggested
this group, composed of the Central Permitting Manager, a Loan Officer, and an Environmental Specialist Supervisor, work with Economic Development staff. He indicated these positions
have expertise in land development, loan packages, and Brownfields. He suggested reviewing the team every 6 months regarding current needs. Flexibility will encourage interdepartmental
cooperation. Team members who are no longer needed will be permitted to return to their previous positions.
Vision Statement Schedule
The City Manager requested the Commission review the schedule and sign up for meetings where additional Commission participation is needed.
Ft. Lauderdale Field Trip
The City Commission trip to Ft. Lauderdale to review its CRA district was scheduled for May 8, 1997, all day.
Commission Discussion Items
Direction re TBRPC’s Resolution No. 97-1
Activities of the Area Agency on Aging were questioned. It was noted the organization works closely with the Elder Links program. Concern was expressed regarding plans to transfer
this program to a northern county. It was stated the organization does a good job assisting the aged.
Consensus was to support a resolution regarding this issue.
Other Commission Action
Commissioner Seel said she had discussed policy related to the Penny for Pinellas with Fred Marquis and the Pinellas County Commission and reported the County is looking to Clearwater
to set a standard. She recommended an ordinance requiring public hearings for all changes to the Penny for Pinellas list which are greater than $500,000. It was noted the City Commission
already reviews all changes. It was felt this proposal has no cost, is a safeguard, and may encourage people to support the tax’s extension.
The majority directed the City Attorney to prepare an ordinance.
Commissioner Clark said the MPO had opposed the proposal to maintain Gandy Bridge as a fishing pier, noting the cost would be enormous.
Commissioner Clark referred to a resolution made by a citizen’s advisory committee related to downtown parking. He expressed concern a misunderstanding may exist regarding County control
over parking near its facilities. Mr. Baier said staff is discussing this issue with the County.
Commissioner Clark questioned when Pickles Plus will open in the Harborview Center. Staff will report regarding the restaurant on Thursday.
Mayor Garvey indicated she had received the Slavin Management Report. The City Manager said staff had contacted Mr. Slavin regarding errors in the document but has not received the
revised report.
Mayor Garvey distributed information from the Convention and Visitors Bureau indicating the importance of the travel industry.
Mayor Garvey questioned the purpose of the report from the Pension Advisory Board. The City Manager said the report included data regarding disability pensions.
Mayor Garvey reported Sandy Mortham, Florida Secretary of State, had invited the Commission to attend International Day in Tallahassee on March 12, 1997.
Mayor Garvey questioned progress related to the 4-acre Bayview property. The City Manager said staff is working with a group interested in applying for a grant to obtain this property.
She noted the property does not reach the water.
Mayor Garvey invited everyone to attend the Downtown Farmers Market at Station Square Park on Saturday from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Adjourn
The Commission adjourned at 3:10 p.m.