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08/04/1997CITY COMMISSION WORK SESSION CITY OF CLEARWATER August 4, 1997 Present: Rita Garvey Mayor/Commissioner J. B. Johnson Vice-Mayor/Commissioner Robert Clark Commissioner Ed Hooper Commissioner Karen Seel Commissioner Michael J. Roberto City Manager Kathy S. Rice Deputy City Manager Bob Keller Assistant City Manager Richard L. Hedrick Assistant City Manager Pamela K. Akin City Attorney Mary K. “Sue” Diana Assistant City Clerk Patricia O. Sullivan Board Reporter The meeting was called to order at 9:00 a.m. at City Hall. The Commission recessed from 9:00 to 9:03 a.m. to meet as the Pension Trustees. PUR PURCHASING Extension, library subscription service, EBSCO Subscription Services, 10/01/97 -09/30/98, estimated $80,000 (LIB) Estimated 5,000 tons of DOT approved concrete sand, Florida Rock Industries, 08/08/97 -08/07/00, estimated $46,000 (PS) Miscellaneous water and sewer pipes & other parts, Hughes Supply, 08/30/97 -08/29/98, estimated $100,000 (PS) 37 desktop computers, Dell Computer Corp., $113,146, to be purchased under City’s master lease-purchase agreement (IM) Declare equipment surplus to City needs; authorize disposal through Tampa Machinery Auction Buyer Michael Murray reviewed the purchasing requests. In response to a question regarding the library subscription service, he said staff had come back for additional funds above the $70,000 budgeted in FY (fiscal year) 1996/97. The entire library system is served. The service provides the lowest cost subscriptions available to the library. In response to a question regarding the computer purchases, Mr. Murray said the Parks & Recreation Department proposes to use them at outlying facilities. Most are for new uses. Replacements will upgrade 286 models. In response to a question, he said surplus computers are donated to charities when possible. Computers which cannot be used due to outdated technology are auctioned. In response to a question regarding equipment surplus, Fleet Administrator Vern Bales said the chain saw in question is old. Its replacement will cost approximately $750. Over its lifetime, the City has spent $3,000 on its repair. It was suggested the City replace equipment when repair costs exceed their value. It was noted the City used the industrial type chain saw extensively. It was recommended the auction list identify equipment which is beyond its cost effectiveness. In response to a question regarding equipment surplus, Mr. Bales did not know how long the pallet of drain cleaner and grease dissolver, listed as a pallet of chemicals, had been in stock. Deputy City Manager Kathy Rice indicated staff will contact all departments regarding possible uses for this material. FN FINANCE Public Hearing - Res. #97-45 - authorizing placement of liens on properties for unpaid utility bills Subject utility accounts are more than 90 days delinquent and owe more than $100 each. Utility Customer Service has notified the owners regarding their indebtedness. The City Clerk has advertised this public hearing. In response to a question, Assistant Director of Finance/Utility Customer Service John Scott said the City turns off the water when accounts are delinquent. Subject property owners were notified of this proposed action by certified letter. In response to a question, he said two bills are large due to unrepaired leaks. GAS GAS SYSTEM Purchase Order for One Call Underground Utility Notification System, One Number Information Systems of Florida, Inc., 08/08/97 -08/07/98, estimated $30,000 State law requires contractors to notify the One Call Underground Utility Notification Center 48 hours before using power equipment to dig in the right-of-way. Rules of RSPA (Research & Special Programs Administration, a division of the U.S. Department of Transportation, allow a natural gas system operator to perform all Damage Prevention Program requirements by subscribing to a “one-call” system. Recent State legislation requires CGS’ membership in the system. During the past 8 months, CGS (Clearwater Gas System) received 23,374 requests for gas line locations in its 270 square mile service area. Due to expansion in Pasco County, staff estimates requests will increase to 33,000 next year. “Sunshine State One Call” maintains all records concerning utility line location requests, provides a 24-hour notification center and fax service, and charges CGS $0.85 per request. CGS investigates each request and paints and flags gas line locations. One Number Informational Systems of Florida, Inc. is the sole source provider of this service in Florida. In response to a question, CGS Managing Director Chuck Warrington indicated this proposal will cover the estimated cost for gas line location requests. It was suggested CGS charge contractors for this fee as a “cost of doing business.” Mr. Warrington indicated CGS is responsible for contacting the system. Before digging in rights-of-way, the contractor is required to obtain permits from the appropriate government agency. It was suggested the permit process recover this cost. Mr. Warrington said much CGS work is done outside the City. CGS users are charged for this expense. Affirm City Manager’s 60-day extension of original period (06/21/96 -06/20/97); further extend for period 08/20/97 -10/20/97 for installation of polyethylene gas mains and services, Heuer Utility Contractors, Inc. To continue prompt installation of new gas mains and services for new customer connections without increasing staff, CGS proposes to extend the contract period with Heuer Utility Contractors, Inc., with no increase in the previously authorized funding level. This extension will complete the use of approved funding under this purchase order. Under City purchasing guidelines, a contract can be extended twice. Authorization to extend the contract is contained in the original specifications. This contract has been extended once. Approximately $222,797 remains of the original authorized purchase order amount of $867,750. This year, CGS installed fewer long gas main extensions than in previous years and funds were not spent as quickly as anticipated. The Manager of Gas Operations will supervise this work which will meet new customer requests in northern Pinellas County. The contractor will supply all labor, equipment, sod, asphalt, concrete, and curb replacements. CGS will supply all gas related materials which were approved previously as inventory purchases. In response to a question, Mr. Warrington stated all funds budgeted for installation had not been used. This proposal extends the time period to use those funds. In response to a question, he indicated CGS is on track regarding all strategic goals. Contract for installation of polyethylene gas mains for Pasco County Gas Expansion - Phase V, on Madison Street from School Road, North to Massachusetts Avenue, then East on Massachusetts to Congress Street, Mueller Distribution Contractors, Inc., estimated $229,928 For timely installation of new gas mains for CGS’ 5th phase of expansion in Southwest Pasco County, CGS proposes a contract with Mueller Distribution Contractors, Inc. to install 4-inch polyethylene gas mains and associated materials along Madison Street North from School Road to Massachusetts Avenue and along Massachusetts Avenue East from Madison Street to Congress Street. The project also includes an 8-inch directional drill of the Pithlachascotee River. This phase will install approximately 3.7 miles of gas truck line main and can serve 20 commercial accounts and 170 residential customers. The Manager of Gas Operations-Pasco will supervise this work. The contractor will supply all labor, equipment, sod, asphalt, concrete, and curb replacements. CGS will supply gas-related materials which are projected to cost $46,852.76 and already have been approved. Mr. Warrington said construction in the commercial area in New Port Richey will be completed in this phase. The project is funded by current bonds. In response to a question, Mr. Warrington indicated the contractors are bonded. He said some customers in the new distribution area already use propane. CGS has worked diligently on area sales. It was suggested before the pipes are installed, CGS should sign up enough customers to make the expansion worthwhile. A request was made for the estimated “pay back” for this phase. Staff to respond. HM HUMAN RELATIONS Fiscal Year 1997/98 Social Services Grants - approve recommendations made by TRC for allocation of City social services funds in the amount $100,000; approve funding contract form Staff mailed grant applications and instructions to 56 area social services agencies which had expressed an interest or had participated in the program previously. Requests were limited to $10,000. Agencies could submit one application per project. The City received 35 applications requesting $267,068.45. On June 13, 1997, the TRC (Technical Review Committee) reviewed the applications and made recommendations. TRC members included: 1) Kathy Boculac - Florida Department of Children & Families; 2) David Morgan - Pinellas County Department of Social Services; 3) Gabriel Cazares - former Clearwater Mayor/former Pinellas County Commissioner; 4) Dorothy Whitlock - JWB (Juvenile Welfare Board); and 5) Lolita Brown - SPJC (St. Petersburg Junior College). The United Way and Morton Plant Meese Hospital Social Services Department were unable to provide staff members to the TRC due to special projects. Social services grant funding of $100,000 is included in the City Manager’s recommended budget for FY (fiscal year) 1997/98. TRC recommended funding: 1) AIDS Service Association of Pinellas, Inc. - $8,779; 2) Community Pride Child Care, Inc. - $8,356; 3) Coordinated Child Care of Pinellas, Inc. - $10,000; 4) Greenwood Community Health Resource Center - $6,920 - 5) Head Start, Pinellas County - $10,000; 6) Neighborly Senior Services, Inc. - $4,988; 7) Pinellas Animal Foundation, Inc. - $7,178; 8) Pinellas Opportunity Council, Inc. - Emergency Assistance Program - $5,000; 9) Pinellas Opportunity Council, Inc. - Skills Training Program - $2,500; 10) Quality Child Care Center, Inc. - $4,420; 11) Quest Inn, Inc. - $8,420; 12) RCS (Religious Community Services, Inc.) - Emergency Housing Program - $5,020; 13) RCS - Food Pantry - $8,419; and 14) RCS - The Haven Transitional Living Program - $10,000. It was suggested the City advise social service agencies to contact area banks if they need furniture or educational supplies. It was felt this grant should not cover salaries. It was stated agencies need paid personnel to facilitate programs. In response to a question, Human Relations Director Eleanor Breland indicated if funding is not noted for last year, none was received. Coordinated Child Care of Pinellas, Inc. was congratulated for their plan to use the City grant to match Federal and State dollars at a ratio of $1 of City money to $11.50 of outside support. In response to a question, Ms. Breland indicated Greenwood Community Health Resource Center receives no other funding from the City. Ms. Rice indicated the agency’s request for the City to pay rent for an additional apartment was not funded. In response to a question, Ms. Breland said she will provide information regarding the estimated ratio of matching funds for RCS. Concern was expressed representatives from Morton Plant Hospital and the United Way had not participated in the TRC recommendation. It was suggested a procedure be developed that guarantees representation by these major organizations or backup agencies if they cannot participate. Ms. Breland indicated United Way has a limited staff and was involved in a special project. Next year, the meeting will be scheduled far in advance. This is the first year Morton Plant Hospital did not participate. It was felt considerable input is necessary In response to a question regarding Head Start, Ms. Breland said substitute teachers are needed to maintain teacher child ratios as required by JWB. It was recommended Head Start contact other child care centers which are able to cover this need without hiring substitute teachers. Ms. Rice stated Head Start has stricter ratios requiring higher staffing levels mandated by the Federal government. Ms. Breland will discuss this issue with them. In response to a question, Ms. Rice said Head Start’s match ratio for in-kind services and cash is 1:5. It was recommended staff track match ratios for City-funded programs. Concern was expressed regarding the recommendation to fund RCS - Emergency Housing Program for renovation to comply with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act). Ms. Breland will report if funds are to be used for recently completed construction projects. She indicated many program buildings still do not meet federal guidelines. In response to a question regarding Pinellas Animal Foundation, Inc., Ms. Breland stated the program is designed to bring together seniors, disadvantaged youth, and pet animals. Concern was expressed other program requests may have been more beneficial. Ms. Breland said the committee felt this program is worthwhile and innovative. She noted these funds should encourage new ways to address old problems. It was felt this program will enrich youth and the elderly. PD POLICE First Reading Ord. #6149-97 - Creating new section 21.17 relating to begging by intimidation; providing definitions; prohibiting begging with intent to intimidate Individuals begging for money, goods, or services, while engaged in conduct intended to intimidate citizens into assenting to the beggar’s demands, is adverse to the health, safety, and welfare of Clearwater citizens. This ordinance is not intended to infringe upon constitutionally protected free speech, but is intended to prohibit conduct that would cause a person to be fearful of imminent harm to his or her person or property. The ordinance defines the terms, “beg” and “intimidate,” and is modeled after an ordinance which has withstood a constitutional test in Roulette v. City of Seattle. If adopted, officers charged with enforcement will be provided a training bulletin and instructions regarding its application, ensuring it is constitutionally applied. Police Chief Sid Klein said the problem of begging by intimidation is increasing across the City. He said this ordinance will put necessary controls in place for the future, particularly after the homeless shelter opens. Staff was congratulated for developing the ordinance. PS PUBLIC SERVICES Ratify/Confirm amendment to P.O.9142, relating to repairs & upgrades to ground storage (water) tanks, The Crom Corporation, increasing the amount by $34,090 for new total of $105,989 This Purchase Order involves upgrades and repairs to four 5-million gallon tanks in the City Water System. All work related to the original purchase order and recommended amendment has been completed. After the tank at Reservoir #1 was drained and while the contractor was sealing the interior joints, a Water Division crew worked on water distribution mains at the site. The Water Division crews’ work apparently caused a check valve in the pump house to swing open. When the Water Division crew finished their work and water was turned on, the partially open valve failed to close and allowed water to flow into the tank before the joint sealer had dried. Work on the reservoir’s interior was redone at an additional cost of $31,990. In response to a question, Ms. Rice stated Public Works director Gardner Smith had indicated the check valve was closed before water was added to the tank but the check valve had failed. It was suggested similar projects should be done in steps. Ms. Rice said staff tries to complete these types of projects all at one time. In the future, staff will double check the check valves. CP CENTRAL PERMITTING (Cont’d 07/17/97) Public Hearing & First Reading Ord. #6166-97 - relating to occupational license fees; amending Appendix A, Schedule of Fees, Rates and Charges by 5% increase in fees and amending administrative fees charges In 1995, under guidelines established in State Statute 205.013 and amended in 1993, the Commission adopted an ordinance that restructured and increased the City’s Occupational License fees. Municipalities can increase their Occupational License fees up to 5% every other year after adopting an ordinance reclassifying and revising the rate structure. This agenda item and associated ordinance increases almost all fees and revises the administrative fee for delinquent occupational license fees to a more equitable system. During budget hearings, the City Commission had directed staff to bring forward this amendment increasing fees. The increase will generate approximately $60,000 in additional revenue. In addition, staff proposes to add a category to address an equity concern: 070.110 - Hardware Store or Lumber Yard with stock value less than $100,000 - $200 fee. In response to a question, Central Permitting Assistant Director Vic Chodora stated hardware stores with stock valued at more than $100,000 on October 1 would be classified as a merchant. The recommended change relates to smaller lumber yards. In response to a suggestion, the City Manager said if the word “stock” is not from State language, it can be changed to “inventory.” In response to a question, Mr. Chodora said this proposed category only addresses hardware stores and lumber yards. Small merchants always have had a separate category. Occupational license renewal notices were mailed on August 1, 1997. Proposed increases will be effective on October 1, 1998. It was noted the Task Force was frustrated and limited by State law when they reviewed these fees. It was noted the proposed new category will address the previous inequity. EN ENGINEERING Agreement with FDEP for Covenant Running with Land for wetland mitigation activities (Arcturas Pond) located along Allen’s Creek, from Drew Street north to Harding Street This agreement concerns the City’s obligation under a FDEP (Florida Department of Environmental Protection) Permit to provide wetland mitigation to offset dredge and fill activities at Arcturas Pond and improve stormwater drainage. FDEP deemed the original mitigation project to be a failure when plants died due to high sedimentation rates in Allen’s Creek. The City is required to select and plant an alternative mitigation site to compensate for mitigation at Arcturas Pond. The Covenant Running with Land similarly commits the City to establish a successful mitigation project, as determined by the criteria outlined in the original permit, at the alternative mitigation site. Upon establishing a successful mitigation planting site, FDEP will execute a recordable release form to terminate the City’s mitigation obligations under this permit. In response to a question, Assistant Director of Engineering/Environmental Tom Miller said the failed pond was bounded by Gulf-to-Bay Boulevard and Corona and Arcturas Avenues. The City has discussed the plan with nearby neighbors on Harding Street, who have voiced no objections. C.O.#2 to Landmark Drive Extension Contract, adjusting completion date to 07/07/97, for total time extension of 115 days Change Order #2 extends the 180-day Landmark Drive Extension Contract 115 days, adjusting the completion date to July 7, 1997. Additional time was needed due to: 1) contractor started construction prior to execution of City’s Development Agreement with the Vogels in October 1996, which provided for use of the right-of-way adjacent to the Vogel property. Underground appurtenances and roadway grading could not be installed in this area until the agreement was executed; 2) after public meetings, the City modified roadway grades, alignment, and cross sections which delayed construction efforts south of Mullet Creek. Modifications included a new alignment, revised roadway cross section, removal of Saber Drive pavement connections, and removal of connection to Marlo Boulevard; and 3) heavy rain caused construction delays for the precast box culvert and retaining walls for the Mullet Creek crossing. The delay caused no additional contract costs and the contractor is not being assessed a penalty. It was noted the project was completed within budget although it suffered some delays. In response to a question regarding access to Landmark Drive from the Marlo Boulevard neighborhood, Ms. Rice said the issue will be revisited 6 months after the road is open. Contract for North Greenwood District Parking Lot #2, T.A. Cummings Construction Corp., for $35,888; approve $6,598 for materials for irrigation, landscaping & lighting to be installed by Parks & Rec Dept., for total of $42,486; and approve contingency fee of $4,250 (10%) On February 19, 1997, the City purchased this vacant parcel to develop a second district parking lot in North Greenwood. T. A. Cummings Construction submitted the low bid, $35,888. The Parks & Recreation Department will install landscaping and irrigation at an estimated cost of $4,598 and parking lot lighting at an estimated cost of $2,000. The total project cost, estimated at $42,486, will add 22 parking spaces to the North Greenwood Business District. It was questioned how much the City had paid for the parcel. It was requested that staff report on the total cost of this project and track all City investment in the area. Ms. Rice stated the parking lot will help North Greenwood businesses prosper and grow. Work Order ANX-040397, Post Buckley Schuh & Jernigan, remedial action at the Annex / Former Montgomery Ward Fueling Facility, $160,000 In August 1994, the North end of the Annex property, site of a former Montgomery Ward Fueling Facility, was accepted into the State Abandoned Tank Restoration program. On December 12, 1995, FDEP approved the CAR (Contamination Assessment Report) and required the development of a Remedial Action Plan. On April 5, 1996, the City contracted with PBS&J (Post, Buckley, Schuh & Jernigan), to develop the Remedial Action Plan due to the moratorium on State funded cleanup of petroleum contaminated sites and the City’s desire to expedite the cleanup and promote redevelopment opportunities. In December 1996, the plan was submitted to FDEP, and modified on February 20, 1997. The CAR revealed the petroleum plume below the fueling site had contaminated approximately 2,458 tons of soil and an undetermined quantity of groundwater. This project’s scope of work includes the excavation, treatment, and disposal of excessively contaminated soil, and treatment of contaminated groundwater to State Standards. It was questioned if Brownfield funds could be used for this project. Assistant City Manager Bob Keller said those funds had been budgeted for other projects. In response to a question, Mr. Miller said the City’s fuel site on the South end of the property has not been remediated although contaminated soil has been removed. Some nominal contamination was discovered when the tanks were removed. He said the cleanup should be minor and not expensive. It was suggested the City address both contaminated sites at the same time. Mr. Miller expressed concern the proposed project is ready and should not be delayed due to the potential migration of the petroleum plume. It was suggested the cleanup of this property be considered an emergency and both sites of contamination be addressed simultaneously. Mr. Miller said the City currently is negotiating with the State regarding the cleanup of the City’s fuel site. That cost has not been determined. He recommended proceeding with this proposal. A report was requested listing City costs to prepare the entire annex site for redevelopment. Concern was expressed the contract calls for a short term permit. Mr. Miller said the permit will cover dewatering activities whereby wells are installed to treat the water. This is not a long term activity. After treatment, the water will be discharged into the stormwater system, which is common practice in Florida. Chief Engineer Terry Jennings said most of the pollutants will evaporate. When the project is complete, the site will be clean. It was questioned if Montgomery Wards can be held responsible for any cleanup costs. It was indicated the City had purchased the property in the mid-1970s before the law identified parties responsible for cleaning up pollution. Joint Project Agreement with Pinellas County for utility installation by roadway contractor for construction of Sunset Point Road, from US 19N to McMullen Booth Road, estimated $370,757.75 Pinellas County has designed the project to widen Sunset Point Road between US 19N and McMullen-Booth Road. Construction is scheduled between October 1997 and September 1998. Widening the roadway necessitates relocating or adjusting the City’s water, sanitary sewer, and natural gas mains and appurtenances within the project limits. The Engineering Department and CGS have coordinated the design for these utility accommodations with the County. Pinellas County will receive bids for the widening and utility relocation work and award the project to the low bidder. The cost is estimated. Exact costs will be determined by the contractor’s bid. The City will be advised of the contract bid and can reject an excessive bid. This is unlikely as the City will not have to pay for restoration, traffic control, surveying, and construction management, which will be covered by the County. In response to a question, Mr. Jennings said the contract item indicating the City will reimburse the county for actual costs contains normal language. In response to a question, he said the road will have 5 lanes, 2 in each direction and a turn lane. CM ADMINISTRATION First Reading Ord. #6180-97 - establishing a money purchase pension defined contribution plan for certain employees who are employed by the City on or after 06/23/97 The City Manager’s contract requires a 15% contribution into an ICMA 401A Money Purchase Pension Plan. Staff drafted the plan with the help of Kalish and Ward. Staff recommends two classes of management employees: 1) City Manager and City Attorney for whom the City will put 15% into the plan, effective June 23, 1997, the date of Michael Roberto’s hire and 2) unclassified employees with signed employment agreements with the City Manager who are not in the Pension Plan. The City’s contribution for these employees will be 6%. The City already contributes 6% into a 457 plan for these employees. It is proposed this part of the plan begin October 1, 1997, to provide time to stop the 457 contribution and begin the 401A contribution. This change will save the City approximately $9,000 a year as Social Security payments will not be paid on the 6% contribution to a pension plan. The City currently pays Social Security on deferred compensation. The plan document includes: 1) normal retirement defined at age 55; 2) plan qualifies under IRS rules; 3) ICMARC shall be plan Trustees; 4) participants may direct investments; 5) ICMA allows deferral beyond termination for distribution of funds; and 6) plan allows in-service withdrawal. Ms. Rice said the Commission will be provided copies of this proposal. It was recommended this item be continued to give Commission members the opportunity to review the document. Ms. Rice requested it be considered on Thursday due to the time it will take to establish the plan. The City Attorney, Finance Director, and Deputy City Manager worked to be certain the plan meets City needs. It was felt related savings will offset the larger contributions to retirement accounts for the City Manager and City Attorney. The language is standard. Ms. Rice requested the Commission contact her with questions before Thursday. In response to a question, Ms. Rice said the 457 plan allows participants to invest up to $7,500 in deferred compensation. A 401A does not allow added contributions by the employee. The City currently contributes 6% for unclassified employees with signed employment agreements who are not in the Pension fund. Exceptions are the Police Chief Finance Director. It was noted the $7,500 maximum will be indexed for inflation at a rate not to exceed $500 every two years. Approve application for submittal of USEPA Sustainable Challenge Grant to fund Economic Buy-In Model for Town Pond Project; approve $7,000 appropriation of City matching funds The SDCG (Sustainable Development Challenge Grant) program, a competitive USDEP (U.S. Department of Environmental Protection) grant initiative, invites communities to form partnerships to invest in their own sustainable future through projects which improve the environment and spur economic development while maintaining a sense of community well-being. The City will apply to fund an interactive buy-in model to establish a public/private partnership to construct a regional retention facility downtown. The goal is to establish the town pond as a facility that provides collective stormwater retention, attenuation, and treatment, resulting in cleaner water flowing into Clearwater Harbor. The pond also will improve the area’s economic climate by allowing surrounding businesses to use more of their land for development and expansion. The grant application will request $35,000 for a consultant’s study to determine the financial feasibility of a regional retention pond funding program and to develop a model to calculate all program financial parameters. The grant includes a challenge for applicants to provide a 20% match. The City’s required match will be $7,000. The City has received letters of commitment for $5,000 from private partners and is confident letters of commitment will be in hand by August 15, for the remainder of the match. The City may need to fund a portion of the match. It was pointed out the City has received commitments from the private sector for this project. Mr. Keller said the private sector has committed $5,000 of the $7,000 cost. He said the response indicates enthusiasm for the project and a new willingness for public participation. OTHER CITY ATTORNEY ITEMS New Lawsuit - Lois Maroon vs City of Clearwater, et al. Lois Maroon, a City employee and Pension Plan participant, brought this action seeking declaratory judgment clarifying her rights under the Pension Fund and City code. Ms. Maroon was employed on September 27, 1978, resigned, withdrew her resignation, and was reinstated. The PAC (Pension Advisory Committee) voted to allow her to buy back her pension service credit for September 27, 1978, to January 4, 1985. Ms. Maroon alleges the City has refused to credit her for her service from July 1985, to November 1989. The City Attorney reported this case will be assigned to outside counsel, Thompson, Sizemore & Gonzalez, which handled the previous AARP litigation. This case is similar but not identical. Ms. Maroon did not participate in the AARP settlement. It was noted Ms. Maroon had attempted resolution through the PAC (Pension Advisory Committee). City Manager Verbal Reports July meeting rule (Mayor’s memorandum) The Mayor referred to the 1998 schedule of Commission meetings and questioned if a Commission meeting will be scheduled the first week of July due to the 4th of July holiday. Concern was expressed regarding the large number of issues presented at the first meeting in December 1996 when the second December meeting was canceled. It was felt the current schedule works well. It was noted the January meetings will need to be rescheduled as January 1, 1998, falls on a Thursday. Consensus was to not meet on July 4, 1998. Reschedule August 14, 1997 meeting The August 14, 1997, meeting scheduled to prioritize Penny for Pinellas projects has been canceled. The discussion will take place on August 28, 1997, at 9:00 a.m. during a previously scheduled meeting. A second meeting was scheduled for September 16, 1997, at 9:00 a.m. Locations will be announced. DDB meeting Mr. Keller reported at their August 6, 1997, meeting, the DDB (Downtown Development Board) possibly will discuss a proposed agreement among the DDB, CRA (Community Redevelopment Agency), and City. He did not anticipate a vote will be taken. Other Commission Action Commissioner Johnson said the settlement regarding the Atrium garage has generated concerns regarding downtown parking needs. In response to a question, Ms. Rice said Director of Solid Waste Bob Brumback had offered alternative solutions for placement of the trash container. The City plans to construct a more attractive enclosure. She reported 18 additional parking spaces South of the parking garage will be metered. Some Atrium tenants have parking concerns. Area construction has aggravated the situation. The City Attorney reported the owner of the Atrium had determined hourly parking will be continued in the parking garage. Commissioner Johnson noted letters had been sent on behalf of the Commission without discussion. It was noted the letters had been written on behalf of FAST (Federal Action Strike Team) to address issues of importance to citizens which require a quick response to the federal level. Commissioners had been provided a draft of the letters for input. Commissioner Johnson questioned whether the City is going to pursue the Department of Community Affairs for coastal management funds. Ms. Rice believed this issue probably will be discussed at the next Commission meeting. The City is actively pursuing this issue. Commissioner Hooper said construction of the Pinellas Trail through Clearwater is nearing completion. Recently, presentations by 56 artists for murals to decorate 20 large blank walls along the trail were judged. The 2 artists who scored highest will be given wall preference and be requested to present illustrations of proposed murals for approval. Private money to offset the costs is being sought. Donors will be recognized in various ways. Acrylic paint will be used so the murals last 5 years. The murals will adhere to City sign regulations. Mayor Garvey noted work appeared to be taking place at the Ice House. Mr. Keller believed the business may be making progress on the cleanup of the property. Commissioner Hooper noted the flattering and exciting article in the Maddux Report on “Sparkling” downtown Clearwater. The City Manager said the article is an outstanding publicity piece and will be mass produced. The Mayor requested copies for distribution. Commissioner Clark questioned if a portion of the Pinellas Trail through Clearwater would be tinted as previously indicated. It was noted the previous City Manager had determined it to be too expensive. Commissioner Clark questioned if the City considered using the Station Square Park parking lot to address downtown parking problems. Mr. Keller said staff is investigating. Mayor Garvey requested Commissioners advise staff if they are interested in attending the National League of Cities meeting in Philadelphia, December 2 to 6, 1997. Commissioner Clark thanked the Phillies organization for their hospitality. Adjourn The meeting adjourned at 10:45 a.m. A closed bargaining session was convened.