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10/13/1997CITY COMMISSION WORK SESSION CITY OF CLEARWATER October 13, 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 Pamela K. Akin City Attorney Cynthia E. Goudeau City Clerk Patricia O. Sullivan Board Reporter The meeting was called to order at 1:01 p.m. at City Hall. Service Awards Eleven service awards were presented to City employees. Glenn Daniel, Public Services Department, was presented the September 1997 Employee of the Month award. CRT COMMUNITY RESPONSE TEAM Public Hearing - determine whether a public nuisance exists on the following property, 1970 Rainbow Drive (Viorel Caba) The City Attorney said the Commission will determine, during a quasi-judicial hearing on October 16, 1997, if a public nuisance exists at 1970 Rainbow Drive and, if so, direct the Legal Department to petition the Circuit Court for abatement of the nuisance. Although the process is lengthy, other methods tried by the City and County to encourage compliance have proved fruitless. In response to a question, Code Enforcement Inspector Janice King said the property owner historically does not retrieve his certified mail from the Post Office nor answer his door when she knocks. She reported stapling notice of this meeting to a post in the property owner’s front yard and photographing it. In response to a question, the City Attorney said the Tampa property infested by rodents was addressed through the Health Department’s successful intervention. FD FIRE Approve 10 year Emergency Medical Services First Responder Agreement with Pinellas County EMS (Emergency Medical Services) Authority The Pinellas County EMS (Emergency Medical Services) Authority, composed of the Board of County Commissioners, has proposed a 10-year agreement for the City to continue providing first-responder EMS within Clearwater’s EMS District. The City can terminate the agreement by providing 6-months notice. Previous 10-year contract funding was determined by annual County analysis of “marginal costs,” expenses the City actually incurred in accomplishing EMS functions beyond the normal cost of accomplishing fire protection services. The proposed contract is a “fixed-price” agreement that uses previous marginal costs as the base, and also funds identified costs for medical malpractice, oxygen, vehicle liability, firefighter overtime, and taxicab costs for returns from hospitals. Annual adjustments to the funding will be no less that 3%, and no greater than 5.5%, as determined by the Municipal Price Index. For FY (fiscal year) 1997/98 the County will fund the City $2,389,953, which includes a 3% increase to the FY 1996/97 base. The City Manager indicated a series of negotiations with the County were necessary to address staff concerns regarding the length of the proposed contract. On October 10, 1997, the County response clarified proposed reimbursements which staff feels are close to City costs. The contract allows the City to readdress the contract regarding additional units and fire stations. The County has requested an immediate reply. In response to a question, the City Manager said the County’s response had addressed all staff questions. It was noted St. Petersburg is providing EMS services outside their city under court order and without a County contract. It was recommended Fire Chiefs be provided legal counsel to negotiate these types of contracts. GS GENERAL SERVICES Purchase one 1997 Elgin Eagle Series F Mechanical Street Sweeper, Vantage Equipment, $121,720; funding to be provided under City’s master lease-purchase agreement in the amount of $121,720 The Stormwater Utility program will use this unit to sweep residential streets and reduce catch basin clogging. On May 13, 1997, an RFP (Request for Proposals) was distributed. Bids were received: 1) $119,970 - Florida Municipal Equipment; 2) $116,150 - Jim Hardee Equipment; and 3) $121,720 - Vantage Equipment. Jim Hardee Equipment was excluded from evaluation after failing to respond to verbal and written requests for a demonstration Florida Municipal Equipment units performed unsatisfactorily; 1) failed to pickup all debris; 2) hydrostatic drive difficult to control; 3) squeegee design elevator caused cab vibration; 4) failed to meet conveyer belt system specification; 5) failed to meet variable side load dump specification; and 6) failed to comply with automatic broom lift specification. Equipment will be lease purchased. Concern was expressed the grass clippings City crews blow into streets end up in City storm sewers, undermining street sweeping efforts. Staff will report on this issue. In response to a question, the City Manager said the additional unit will sweep 10,000 miles of residential streets annually. In response to a question, General Services Director Bill Baird said the proposed unit performed satisfactorily in all categories where Florida Municipal Equipment units failed. It was requested a City crew sweep up broken glass on Yelvington Avenue. Increase unleaded fuel contract with Louis Dreyfus Energy Corporation by estimated $37,500, for new total $137,500 Due to recent fuel price increases and expanded use of City fuel sites by Public Services, Solid Waste, and Fire departments, the contracted fuel amount allocated to Louis Dreyfus Energy Corporations soon will be exhausted. Departments using City fuel sites find them more convenient than Voyager Fleet vendors. The current Dreyfus contract expires in December 1997. Assuming no dramatic fuel price increases occur, the amount due Voyager Fleet Systems should be reduced. In response to a question, Mr. Baird said the City has joined the County consortium and purchases fuel at market price, which can change daily. Current prices are lower than last quarter. It was questioned if increased use of City fuel is offset by lower Voyager Fleet fuel purchases. Staff will provide an analysis of fuel use. In response to a question, Mr. Baird reported the City is rebated regularly for taxes paid on fuel purchased through Voyager Fleet. A total fuel consumption comparison with last year was requested. HU HOUSING & URBAN DEVELOPMENT Agreement with NDC (National Development Council), $40,500 which includes City’s investment of $100,000 into the Grow Clearwater Fund; and declare surplus property and authorize sale to NDC of a $45,000 CDBG financed economic development loan The NDC (National Development Council), a national non-profit organization, provides housing, community, and economic development services to more than 200 American communities. Through their Grow America Fund and Housing and Economic Development Corporation, NDC provides low cost financing for business and housing development in participating communities. For the City to participate, CHUD (Clearwater Department of Housing and Urban Development) requests the Commission: 1) authorize to declare $45,000 in economic development loans, funded through the CDBG (Community Development Block Grant) program, as surplus; 2) authorize selling these loans to NDC with proceeds paying NDC’s $40,500 annual contract fee; and 3) authorize $100,000 investment from unreserved fund balance in the Rehabilitation Loan Non-Expendable Trust Fund in the Grow Clearwater Fund. NDC will match the City’s $100,000 investment. This investment will enable the City to finance up to $1-million in small business loans guaranteed through the SBA (Small Business Administration) 7-A Program. The NDC contract permits the City to issue USHUD (U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development) Section 203(k) insure mortgages. The Section 203(k) program provides home-ownership opportunities for eligible people to purchase and renovate existing housing units with one mortgage. Conventional lending programs require the renovation of housing units with minor or major deficiencies prior to receiving a mortgage. NDC also will provide training in financing related to principles, development structuring, affordable housing, and other programs. Housing & Urban Development Director Alan Ferri reported 61% of small businesses indicate they are undercapitalized. It is difficult for residents with fixed incomes to maintain their aging homes. He said the proposed agreement will help generate additional resources to address these issues. He reviewed the opportunities available through the NDC contract, including technical support for staff. In response to a question, the City Attorney said a technicality requires declaring the loans surplus. The City will receive the full principal value of the loans. In response to a question, Mr. Ferri said the contract price provides access to all NDC services, many of which cannot be replicated by a CDC (Community Development Corporation). The proposed municipal fund would be under City direction. Collateral requirements will differ from current ones. The NDC’s successful program has a $23-million pool. The NDC is not part of the Federal government but holds a non-profit lending license and treasury certification. He said the program is not a “middle-man” but provides direction to the secondary market. Mr. Ferri reported he has been familiar with the NDC since the 1970s. Mr. Ferri and his staff were congratulated for finding an innovative means to meet redevelopment and housing goals. MR MARINE Agreement with Clearwater Bay Marina, Inc., 12/01/97 -12/01/02, for collection of daily launch fees at Seminole Launching Ramps, for 25% of daily fees collected On October 1, 1986, the City established an Agreement with Clearwater Bay Marine Ways, Inc., F/K/A Clearwater Bay Marina Ways, Inc., to collect daily launch fees at the Seminole Street Launching Ramps. The current agreement expires on December 1, 1997. To cover collection costs, Clearwater Bay Marina, Inc., retains 25% of collected fees. The City retains 75% of daily launch frees, and 100% of monthly and yearly launch fees, which only are sold at City facilities. Current launch fees are: 1) $3 - daily; 2) $10 - monthly resident; 3) $15 - monthly non-resident; 4) $100 - yearly resident; and 5) $150 - yearly non-resident. No fee increase is recommended. Clearwater Bay Marina, Inc., has met all terms and conditions of the current contract and have agreed to meet ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) requirements for launch permit sales. Staff recommends extending the agreement for 5 years with the same terms. In response to a question, Harbormaster Bill Held said Clearwater Bay Marine Ways, Inc., owns the building where they operate. Of daily launch fees collected by Clearwater Bay Marine Ways last year, the company retained approximately $12,000 and the City received approximately $40,000. The agreement saves the City from having to provide staffing. In response to a question, Mr. Held reported the signs at the facility were restored when the ramps were refurbished. The success of the recent Pier 60 “Make a Difference Fishing Tournament” was praised. PR PARKS AND RECREATION Confirm co-sponsorship & waiver of City fees for special events including Jazz Holiday, Fun ‘n Sun, Fourth of July, Family Holiday Traditions & Parade, Turkey Trot, North Greenwood Street Festival, Martin Luther King Jr. Parade, Memorial Day, Clearwater Pass Bridge Run, Saturday in the City, and 1 new event, Military Appreciation Day, estimated total $188,396 ($69,720 cash contributions & $118,676 in-kind contributions); and authorize event sponsors to approve vendors This item responds to City Commission policy regarding special events. Should additional money be requested beyond “cash” contributions approved in the budget, Commission approval will be requested. As specific costs are not known until after events occur, “in-kind” contributions are estimates. The City’s FY 1997/98 operating budget includes a $69,720 cash contribution under “non-departmental expenses.” The operating budgets of various departments include in-kind contributions such as police officers, park employees, electricians, etc. Budgeted contributions for City sponsored and co-sponsored events for FY 1997/98: 1) Fun ‘n Sun - $34,720 cash /$14,319 in-kind; 2) Fourth of July - $10,000 cash/$31,920 in-kind; 3) Jazz Holiday - $25,000 cash/$31,305 in-kind; 3) Jazz Holiday - $25,000 cash/$31,305 in-kind; 4) Family Holiday Traditions and Parade - $8,827 in-kind; 5) Turkey Trot - $7,199 in-kind; 6) North Greenwood Street Festival - $1,676 in-kind; 7) Martin Luther King Jr. Parade - $4,540 in-kind; 8) Saturday in the City - $1,164 in-kind; 9) Memorial Day Event - $5,370 in-kind; 10) Clearwater Pass Bridge Run - $3,606 in-kind; and 11) Military Appreciation Day - $8,750 in-kind. It was recommended the City reduce its cash contribution to Jazz Holiday and redistribute those funds to Saturday in the City and Military Appreciation Day. It was recommended a $5,000 cash contribution be given to Saturday in the City. Deputy City Manager Kathy Rice said recommendations will be provided at the next meeting on funding that event and Military Appreciation Day. It was reported Military Appreciation Day had not received as many private donations as was anticipated. The City Manager said planning for the event is going well. A report regarding the shortfall was requested. In response to a question, Ms. Rice said historically, the City gives the Jazz Holiday its contribution in October. Although it begins on Thursday, the City has not yet presented this year’s check. In response to a question, Parks & Recreation Director Ream Wilson said the insurance requirements are waived for all City sponsored and co-sponsored events. In-kind contributions cover expenses for Police, pubic services, and nursery. EN ENGINEERING Contract for 1997 Storm Sliplining Repair Project, Suncoast Excavating & Utilities, Inc., $489,917, and approve $48,991.70 for 10% contingency fee Approximately 9,193 feet of small diameter storm sewers need repair. Leaks permit subsurface soils to penetrate the system and has caused the loss and/or settlement of private property. This project will insert high density polyethylene slipliner into the deteriorated storm lines. A 10% contingency fee is proposed. In response to a question, Engineering Director Rich Baier reported slipliners have a life expectancy between 25 and 30 years. The tabulation of which pipes need repair was based on available data. Second Amendment to lease agreement dated 02/22/96 with Dimmitt Car Leasing, Inc., extending term to 01/31/98, renewable monthly thereafter at City option, Magnolia Park Sub., Blk 1, for MSB/PS temporary parking facilities Pending completion of the Municipal Services Complex parking garage, the City leases from Dimmitt Car Leasing, Inc. a vacant lot in the 800 block of Cleveland Street with space for more than 45 vehicles, The 2nd Amendment to Lease Agreement extends the lease through January 31, 1998, and can be terminated with 30 days written notice by either party. This extension conforms with similar extensions granted by The Times Publishing Company and Clearwater Newspapers, Inc., for all other Municipal Services Complex temporary parking facilities. The $430 monthly rent, all other terms, and conditions of the lease remain unchanged and in full force and effect. Concern was expressed regarding the source of funding. Staff will verify funds are budgeted under the Municipal Services Complex project. Contract through purchase order for removal of Brazilian Pepper along Stevenson’s Creek, between Betty Lane & Alternate US 19, to Stan Cisilski, Inc., for $45,000 In December 1996, the City established the North Greenwood Action Plan through the efforts of the North Greenwood Task Team in cooperation with City Management. As part of the plan, Clearwater committed to cleaning up and improving the lower reach of Stevenson’s Creek, including removal of undesirable plants such as Brazilian Pepper. In June 1997, City crews began removal activities on City-owned property adjacent to the creek. This contract will complete the removal and initial spray activities along approximately 5,000-feet of the creek channel between Betty Lane and Alternate US 19. Remaining plants are on privately owned property adjacent to the creek. Considering the quantity of trees, the difficulty in accessing the area, and licensing requirements for spraying, it is impractical for area residents to conduct this work. Staff has received written permission from individual property owners to access private property, remove Brazilian Pepper trees, and maintain the area. Pinellas County Administrator Fred Marquis authorized removal activities at 13 County enclave properties. Pinellas County donated a significant quantity of chemicals to support the eradication effort. Removal activities will take approximately 40 days. Concern was expressed the City again is proposing to clean up private property. Mr. Baier said residents were unable to meet staff requests to contribute to eradication costs. In response to a question, he said sufficient time had not elapsed to determine if eradication efforts at Cooper’s Point had been successful. In response to a concern, Ms. Rice said a team has been assigned to maintain the eradication efforts. Fourth Amendment to lease agreement dated 12/2/94 with Times Publishing Company, extending term to 01/31/98, renewable monthly thereafter at City option, Magnolia Park Sub., Blk 8, for MSB/PS temporary parking facilities The City’s lease with The Times Publishing Company is for property at the Southeast corner of East Avenue and Pierce Street for interim parking during construction of the Municipal Services Complex. Monthly rent remains $1,038. On May 1, 1996, the Lessor agreed to add approximately 13,515 square feet without additional rent. This amendment will continue the lease on a month-to-month basis should the premises be required beyond December 31 1997. Either party can terminate the agreement with 30 days written notice to the other party. All other terms and conditions of the lease remain unchanged and in full force and effect. In response to a question, Mr. Baier reported the City is contemplating a long term lease for this property. The City Manager said a variety of options being considered for relocation of City Hall will be brought forward within the year. Approve C.O.#1 for active remediation of former City Hall Annex / Montgomery Wards Site to Post, Buckley, Schuh & Jernigan, Inc., increasing amount by $282,450 for new total $442,240; and approve 30 day time extension Remediation and development of the Annex site is important to redevelop and revitalize downtown. Developers and potential end users have made numerous inquiries regarding site development. Development of this site will establish the Central Business District’s eastern anchor. The site’s size and location are well suited to job-producing industries. On April 22, 1974, the City purchased the property. Previous site owners who deposited, caused to be deposited, or transported contamination to the site are potentially liable to the City or enforcement agencies, such as the USEPA (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency), for cleanup costs under statutory provisions of law. Whether the City can actually recover damages from such persons or entities will depend on the time frame of actions, available evidence, contractual provisions, available defenses, etc. Staff is investigating all avenues to recoup site remediation costs. On August 7, 1997, the City Commission approved the original $160,000 work order to PBS&J (Post, Buckley, Schuh and Jernigan, Inc.) to excavate, load, transport, and incinerate approximately 2,458 tons of contaminated soils, and to capture, treat, and dispose of contaminated groundwater. On September 29, 1997, active remediation began. Based upon the best available data from the State-approved CAR (Contamination Assessment Report), the first of 2 areas was expected to have 2,208 tons of excessively contaminated soils approximately 8 - 12 feet below the land surface. The CAR estimated the second remediation site, where work has not begun, contains 250 tons of excessively contaminated soils. Upon commencement, it was discovered the extent of excessively contaminated soils is significantly greater than originally anticipated, extending 12 - 16 feet below the land surface and possibly into the confining layer, estimated to be 25 feet below the land surface. As a result, the anticipated total tonnage of soils needing removal was reached after only a portion of the total remediation was completed. It is estimated the total excavation tonnage will exceed an additional 6,000 tons. A change order is necessary to advance the remediation process. The additional work is estimated to cost $282,450, increasing the project’s total to $442,450. The City Engineer of Record Consultant and Remediation Contractors believe continuation of the project as planned is the most timely and economical method. There remains a probability that additional contamination may be identified during field activities. Project closure is imperative to public health and safety. Continued remediation of this site is essential to the timely development of the property. Failure or delay in completing the remediation project may result in lost development opportunities during a strong economy. The City Manager reported staff is discussing other options to determine if a less expensive method is feasible. In response to a question, Assistant Director of Engineering/ Environmental Tom Miller said contaminated soil is transported to the County’s thermal treatment center where it is burned and later returned as clean soil. In response to a question, the City Attorney said staff is investigating options to enforce Montgomery Ward’s liability for expensive recovery efforts. In response to a question, Assistant City Manager Bob Keller said Brownfields funding would change clean-up criteria. In response to a question, Mr. Miller said the estimate assumes the worst case for both sites. The level of contamination is much greater and deeper than anticipated. Mr. Baier said the majority of contamination was caused by diesel fuel which is more difficult to clean than regular gasoline. This contamination resulted from Montgomery Wards’ underground fuel tanks. CP CENTRAL PERMITTING Public Hearing & First Reading Ords. #6201-97 & #6202-97 - Annexation & RS-8 Zoning for property located at 1487 Otten St., Terra Alto Subdivision, Lot 2 (Brenda Evans, A97-11) 3. (Cont. from 10/2/97) Authorize City Attorney to execute a contract with Siemon, Larsen & Marsh to prepare a comprehensive revision to the City Land Development Code for $234,450 The applicant has requested annexation and proposed zoning of Single-Family Residential "Eight" for 1487 Otten Street to obtain trash pickup. The applicant currently receives and is billed for City Water and Sewer services. There is no evidence the City ever approved the connection or any indication that former owners entered into an Agreement to Annex this property with the City. According to Utilities Department records, previous residents received City Water and Sewer services since 1988. The applicant began payment for these services on August 15, 1997. The Engineering Department will conduct further investigation at this site to determine if other buildings receive services without City approval. Staff will report to the City Commission when the investigation is complete. On October 7, 1997, the Planning & Zoning Board unanimously endorsed the request. In response to a concern, staff will report on how the property was connected to City water and sewer without City knowledge and provide recommendations on avoiding a repetition of this type of incident. It was questioned if the property had been assessed for impact fees. CM ADMINISTRATION Presentation - Brownfields Project Update Environmental Specialist Supervisor Miles Ballogg said Clearwater’s Brownfields Pilot Project - Economic, County and Environmental Redevelopment Partnership will benefit the CBA (Clearwater Brownfields Area): 1) economy: a) Federal tax credits to redevelop contaminated properties; b) tax credits for job creation; and c) removal of uncertainty and liability associated with contamination; 2) community: a) job training and b) employment; and 3) environment: a) contamination removal; b) improved stormwater treatment; c) increased landscaping; and d) pollution prevention efforts provided by sustainable redevelopment. Federal resources also will be sought to address other environmental issues. The Clearwater Economic Development Team has initiated many concurrent initiatives for the CBA through intensive communication with appropriate Federal agencies and contact with partners such as USEPA (U. S. Environmental Protection Agency), U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Economic Development Administration, VHA (Veterans Health Administration), USHUD (U. S. Department of Housing & Urban Renewal), etc. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and VHA have expressed interest in a Brownfields Demonstration Project in Clearwater. Developers also have expressed interest in City Brownfields sites due to State and Federal tax incentives. The team has made presentations to the management of Foundation Village Neighborhood Community Center and North Greenwood Community Family Center. Dialogs are beginning with citizens regarding redevelopment opportunities. A series of community meetings are scheduled, including one at the Martin Luther King Center on October 28, 1997. Community representation on the CBAB (Clearwater Brownfields Advisory Board) will ensure community involvement in the redevelopment process. The team also is forging local partnerships, including realtors to identify and market sites and lenders to participate in a guaranteed loan clean-up program. The International City Managers Association has offered to partner with Clearwater in an environmental justice program. The Suncoast Manufacturing Technology Center is willing to assist new industry in pollution prevention measures in the CBA. USF’s (University of South Florida) Environmental Policy, Economic Development, and Philosophy departments also are partnering with the City for economic development research, job training programs, and environmental justice guidance. Many Brownfields program issues overlap with Federal, State, and local programs. Staff will coordinate with other programs to encourage cooperation and avoid duplication. On November 3 - 4, 1997, Clearwater will host the 1st Brownfields Project meeting at the Harborview Center in cooperation with FDEP (Florida Department of Environmental Protection) and the Governor’s Office of Tourism Trade and Economic Development. Necessary future steps include: 1) Commission approval of resolution to designate the City’s State Brownfields Area which mirrors the EPA designated area; 2) Commission approval of 6 environmental consulting firms to provide environmental audit, risk assessment, and remedial services for the City and recipients of City incentives; 3) Commission approval of the CBAB as required by State law. The Commission will select the 9 board members: a) 3 CBA residents; b) 3 owners of CBA businesses; and c) 3 representatives from Federal, State, or local agencies involved in the Brownfields process; and 4) City Commission approval of the State Brownfields Redevelopment Work Plan outlining intended uses of the $500,000 State grant: a) $100,000 - Phase I and II environmental assessments; b) $100.000 - regarding Brownfields legislation, implement redevelopment economic incentives including job creation and linking redevelopment with job training and employment for CBA residents; c) $200,000 - guaranteed loan fund for remediation through local lending associations. The guarantee may leverage more than $100-million in remedial funding; and d) $100,000 - research and data collection including economic development market study. Funding will continue USF’s Center for Economic Management Research cost benefit research and be used to research other grant and funding opportunities. In response to a question, Mr. Ballogg said development of projects and sites will be market based, determined by “first come, first served.” Approve ranking of: 1) Malcolm Pirnie, Inc., 2) IT Corp., 3) Dames & Moore, 4) PBS&J, 5) Westinghouse Remediation Services, Inc., and 6) Geraghty & Miller, Inc., to provide environmental audit, risk assessment & remedial services for the Clearwater Brownfields Area; and authorize negotiation with each In June 1996, the City received the designation from the USEPA as a federally designated Brownfields Pilot. As a result, a Brownfields Pilot Work Plan was developed and approved in October 1996. As a plan element, a RFQ (Request for Qualifications) was developed to select 6 environmental firms to provide environmental audits, risk assessments, and remedial services for projects initiated by the City and/or projects initiated by recipients of Federal and State grant funding administered by the City. Evaluations were based on: 1) 25% - background company qualifications, financial strength; 2) 25% - corporate & team experience; 3) 20% - technical experience with successful assessment & remediation; 4) 10% - demonstrated ability to produce Risked Based Corrective Actions; 5) 5% - minority business; and 6) 10% - presentation. Individual contracts of the 6 approved firms will be brought forward in the future. In response to a question, the City Manager indicated individual businesses involved in Brownfields area redevelopment can contract with any of the environmental consulting firms on the approved list to qualify for City reimbursement. In response to a question, Mr. Ballogg said a list with 6 firms will provide developers with a large selection. Approve the State Brownfields Redevelopment Work Plan and recommended use of Brownfields Redevelopment Grant Funding The 1997 legislature passed the Brownfields Redevelopment Act, enacted as Chapter 97-276, Laws of Florida. Pursuant to Section 12, the City is eligible for a $0.5-million Brownfields Redevelopment Grant administered by the OTED (Governor’s Office of Tourism and Economic Development). This grant may be used to implement, enhance, or expand the Federal Brownfields pilot project or to implement additional Brownfields projects. The Clearwater Work Plan outlines a detailed description of activities, performance standards, measurable outcomes, and the proposed budget for the use of State grant funding. Proposed uses for grant funding outlined in the State Work Plan: 1) $100,000 for Phase I and II environmental assessments in the CBA (Clearwater Brownfields Area); 2) $100,000 to establish an Economic Development Stabilization Fund to provide Brownfields redevelopment economic incentives as outlined in Section 376.84 Florida Statutes to include partial payment of impact fees for redevelopment sites within the CBA, etc.; 3) $200,000 to provide loan guarantees for remediation of sites in the CBA; and 4) $100,000 to establish a Brownfields Data Collection/Research Professional Services Fund for data collection and research initiatives such as a comprehensive CBA Market Study with a Job Training Market Analysis, continued funding of a Brownfields redevelopment Cost/Benefit Analysis being performed by USF (University of South Florida), research to identify additional grant and funding resources, purchase of Brownfields GIS (Geographic Information System) software and data collection, etc. The State Brownfields Redevelopment Work Plan will become part of the grant funding contract to be brought upon receipt before the Commission for approval. Funding and activities outlined in the State Work Plan directly support objectives outlined in the Federal EPA Brownfields Work Plan. First quarter budget amendments will establish projects necessary to monitor the phases and/or conditions of the grant. In response to a question, Mr. Keller said the City’s administrative costs had not been estimated. Based on legislative history, he recommended against charging those expenses to the project. The City can absorb those costs. In response to a question, he said incentives are not being offered to new industries. He felt incentives should be used to stimulate a business not stabilize weak companies. He noted start-up businesses are the most risky. In response to a question, Mr. Keller said certain income or job levels are not being required due to the difficulty of passing incentives through the property owner to the business. Grants are discretionary. The City is not required to approve all applications. The City is looking for job creation that pays at least 150% of the minimum wage. Staff will look at defining sharper criteria. In response to a question, Mr. Keller said staff is trying to develop a multi-level incentive program that would permit business owners to qualify for several programs. In response to a question, Mr. Ballogg felt professionals will volunteer to serve the CBAB at no charge. The City Manager said names will be brought forward for consideration. In response to a question, Mr. Ballogg said the Brownfields legislation listed 20 redevelopment economic incentives, including the partial waiver of impact fees. Staff intends to use State money to determine the effectiveness of various incentives. Participating businesses are required to follow all laws not listed as an incentive. He estimated USF’s preliminary report will be available in 8 months. The Commission recessed from 2:44 to 2:58 p.m. Commission Discussion Items City Attorney evaluation AND City Manager evaluation The City Attorney reviewed past City Commission practices used to evaluate the performances of the City Manager and City Attorney: 1) both complete brief self-evaluations; 2) both meet individually with City Commissioners; and 3) Commissioners discuss their individual evaluations at a public meeting. The City Charter requires this process be accomplished each October. Discussion re Annexation Issue The City Manager said he had met with the consortium and city managers from Dunedin and Largo regarding legislation to allow annexation of enclaves that are 3 acres or less. The proposed legislation would not waive impact fees but split the costs 50/50 between the property owner and subject municipality. The legislation also would sunset the use of septic tanks by a date certain. Consensus was to support this recommendation. The City Manager said a resolution of support is requested. The city managers are scheduled to address the legislative delegation regarding this issue at a public hearing on October 27, 1997. He said septic tanks are hazardous to the aquifer. He noted the importance of local cities providing a united front regarding this issue. Bargaining Session A bargaining session was scheduled after the Work Session on November 3, 1997. Other Commission Action Commissioner Clark questioned if the City can facilitate Beautification Committee Member Baldwin’s recommendation to launch clean-up programs in City neighborhoods. It was noted the beach community sponsors a clean-up and helps coordinate City staff. It was suggested interested communities contact the City Manager’s office. The City Manager said ideas for block parties encouraging neighborhood participation will be brought forward. It was suggested the City challenge communities to clean-up their neighborhoods. Commissioner Clark suggested the City Commission review the City Manager’s 15 proposed projects when discussing prioritizing Penny for Pinellas projects. The City Manager will bring forward recommendations. Commissioner Clark congratulated downtown for the tremendous job done during the recent clean-up day. It was noted 50,000 tons of trash were collected. Commissioner Seel questioned the status of the Atrium Hotel. The City Manager said discussions are taking place. Staff is examining issues such as possible code deficiencies, etc. Commissioner Seel questioned the status of a recent letter received from the Clearwater Bombers. Ms. Rice said the issue will be brought forward. It was noted the Smokers team may have folded. Commissioner Seel noted multi-rack newsracks have been installed in Largo. Staff is compiling a list of cities who are installing them. Mayor Garvey noted her request for travel expenses to attend the 1998 Winter Olympics in Nagano, Japan as a representative for the City. Concern was expressed citizens have objected to the City spending any more money on the Olympics than the $25,000 already committed. In response to a question, the Mayor indicated she has visited Japan once since 1994. It was noted this Sister City event has become quite expensive for the City in funds and staff time. The Mayor noted the rarity of a Florida city having the opportunity to participate in a Winter Olympics. The City has been provided special treatment and will get back much more than it invests. The issue was agendaed for Thursday. It was felt it would be an affront to Nagano if Clearwater does not send the Mayor. Adjourn The meeting adjourned at 3:30 p.m.