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11/17/1997CITY COMMISSION WORK SESSION CITY OF CLEARWATER November 17, 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 Cynthia E. Goudeau City Clerk Patricia O. Sullivan Board Reporter The meeting was called to order at 9:00 a.m. at City Hall. Service Awards Six service awards were presented to City employees. The Commission recessed from 9:06 to 9:39 a.m. to meet as the CRA (Community Redevelopment Agency). PUR PURCHASING Voyager Fleet Systems Inc., extension, vehicle fuel, 12/01/97 -12/01/98, estimated $360,000 (GS) Interprint Web and Sheet Fed, publication of The Clearwater Magazine, $105,600 (IM) In response to a question, Purchasing Manager George McKibben said the contract for The Clearwater Magazine was bid for 4 issues. It was noted the cost is under budget. Concern was expressed the magazine will cost almost $200,000, annually. In response to a question, the City Manager said the Harborview Center newsletter will not be included as that information targets a different audience. BU BUDGET Approve reappropriation of $102,130 of General Fund operating savings in Fiscal Year 1996/97 budget to fund specified projects in the current fiscal year In any budget year, some budgeted dollars cannot be spent due to circumstances beyond a department director’s control. Last year, 2 major initiatives budgeted for the Fire Department could not be completed: 1) $15,500 - installation of sprinkler system at Station 50 - project to be rebid and 2) $50,000 - independent management review - funds not spent. Staff requests to reappropriate these funds in the current budget. Last year, 2 budgeted Parks & Recreation Department projects were not accomplished: 1) $8,000 - storage room addition - Kings Highway Recreation Center and 2) $13,000 - flooring repairs - Clearwater Beach Recreation Center. The Public Communications and Marketing programs wants to reappropriate $8,000 of budgeted advertising dollars for professional advertising services not spent last year. At the end of FY (fiscal year) 1996/97, $7,630 of Library Cooperative funds were unspent. As these funds must be spent for cooperative purposes only, the balance will be reappropriated to the FY 1997/98 Library Cooperative program operating balance. Funds for the above items will be provided by a 1st quarter budget amendment reappropriating $102,130 of General Fund savings from the FY 1996/97 operating budgets to the FY 1997/98 operating budgets for Fire, Parks & Recreation, Library and the Public Communications and Marketing program. In response to a question, Finance Director Margie Simmons said the General Fund’s year end figures will be ready in about one month. An accounting of advertising costs was requested. FN FINANCE Additional Services request by PBS&J (Post, Buckley, Schuh & Jernigan) to update & complete Utility Rate Study, $22,174 On July 18, 1996, the Commission approved implementation of this study at a cost of $97,526. Completion was delayed due to changes in the CIP (Capital Improvement Program) and the change in City management. Additional funding is needed to update the study for the 3rd quarter amended budget for FY 1996/97 and the preliminary FY 1997/98 budget. It is anticipated Solid Waste rate changes recommended by the study will be implemented on January 1, 1998. Recommended rate changes for Water/Sewer and Stormwater will be presented in April 1998, with implementation anticipated by July 1998. A first quarter budget amendment will provide additional funding for the study from the unappropriated retained earnings of the utility funds: 1) $13,904 - Water & Sewer; 2) $4,135 - Stormwater; 3) $784 - Gas; and 4) $3,351 - Solid Waste. In response to a question, Ms. Simmons said the study had been stopped. An accounting was requested regarding how much of this request will go to PBS&J and how much will go to the subcontractor. It was recommended the study use final year end figures. In response to a question, Ms. Simmons said the utility fund is financing the study. She indicated the City had requested an estimate for this additional work prior to authorizing it. It was suggested this fee should have been negotiated. Staff did not return to the Commission for additional funds until the approved funding was depleted. The City Manager said staff will be bringing forward a recommendation to have more than one “engineer of record.” This study is reviewing 4 utilities. The additional request for $22,174 will be a change order. Concern was expressed the City has no say regarding which subcontractor PBS&J uses. Ms. Simmons said staff had negotiated with Burton & Associates to lower the fee. In response to a question, the City Manager said the City Commission can reject this request. A request was made for a report on the current retained earnings for each utility. First Reading Ord. #6217-97 - Submitting to the City Electors a proposed amendment to the General Employees Pension Plan; amending Div. 3, Sec. 2.399, establishment and operation of Pension Fund, Subsection (c), Powers and Duties of Trustees, relating to investments; providing for a referendum election The proposed ordinance, containing major changes and minor housekeeping changes to the Employee’s Pension Fund, is based on recommendations by the Investment Committee, Investment Advisor, and Performance Measurement Company and will: 1) lower investment rating for fixed income securities (bonds) from “AA” to “Investment Grade”; 2) allow up to 10% of funds assets to be invested in foreign stock and/or bonds. Currently none is allowed; and 3) increase from 50% to 65%, the amount of fund assets, at cost that can be invested in common stock. Staff will: 1) change fixed income securities to investment quality immediately upon passage by voters. The fixed income portfolio will average “AA” or higher quality rating with some securities rated “A.” The money management companies believe this change will add 0.25 to 0.40 to the Pension Fund’s rate of return on the fixed income portion; 2) not invest in stock or bonds traded on a foreign exchange without Trustee approval; and 3) allow the percentage of the portfolio, at cost, to increase as the market progresses. Staff will not rebalance the portfolio to this higher allowance. These changes all need voter approval. Opposition to any investment in foreign markets was expressed. Foreign investments will be limited to 10% of the Pension Plan. The City is not obligated to invest in foreign market but this change will provide the opportunity. In response to a question, Ms. Simmons said Pension Trustee approval will be required before any City funds are invested in foreign markets. It was noted the City has hired professionals to monitor the Pension Plan’s investments. In response to a question, Cash & Investments Manager Steve Moskun indicated different companies use different rating systems. He reported “investment grade” is “A.” Investments will remain conservative in nature. Noting their responsibility to the Pension Plan, concern was expressed Pension Trustees be covered by general liability coverage. Staff will review this issue. In response to a question, the City Attorney said her representation of the Board of Pension Trustees is based on the wishes of that board. She has hired outside counsel when necessary. Ms. Simmons reported the City’s Pension Plan rated in the top 1% of all pension plans during the last quarter. PD POLICE Contract for educational services, Pinellas County School System/Clearwater Adult Education Center, estimated $92,060 The City has selected the CTAE (Career, Technical & Adult Education) division of the Pinellas County School System/CAEC (Clearwater Adult Education Center) to provide educational services to community residents for the Weed and Seed program. Services include basic education classes, GED preparation assistance, career counseling, instructions on obtaining and maintaining a job, and computer skills instruction. CTAE staff was instrumental in the planning and implementation of the Job Skills Training Center and Computer Learning Lab. The program is a partnership between the Clearwater Police Department, Mt. Carmel Development Corporation, and CTAE. This is the 2nd year of Weed and Seed funding. The City hopes a 3rd year also is funded. It is expected the Job Skills Training Center will flourish and grow. It would be difficult to maintain continuity and consistency to the program if these educational services were re-bid. Staff feels it is impractical to call for bids for educational services required for the Weed and Seed Job Skills Center and Computer Learning Lab. The difficulty of bidding these services was noted. In response to a question, Police Chief Sid Klein said the remaining funding source is by federal grant. The City is eligible to compete for a 3rd year. Continuing the program beyond 3 years would require City financing. PR PARKS AND RECREATION Ratify/Confirm C.O.#1 (close-out) for Clearwater Beach Recreation Center floor repairs, JSS Property Professionals, Inc., for $12,718.60, for total cost $37,606.60 On July 18, 1997, a $24,888 purchase order was awarded to JSS Property Professionals, Inc., to repair the floor in the main room of the Clearwater Beach Recreation Center. Within the first 3 days of removing the old floor and damaged sub-surface, staff and professionals with McCarthy & Associates Engineering discovered additional problems: 1) an interior grade beam below the floor topping allows moisture through the slab; 2) a void area under the slab at the Southwest corner of the room; and 3) additional material and labor needed to remove and install leveling compound were necessary. Staff requested an emergency change order, not to exceed $13,000, based on a requirement for the contractor to complete the work by September 12, 1997, as a wedding reception was booked for September 13, and other rentals and programs were scheduled to resume on September 15, 1997. The City Manager approved the emergency change order, thereby increasing the contract amount above the $25,000, threshold requiring City Commission approval. The floor was completed on time. It was questioned if any legal remedy exists as this property recently had extensive renovations. Parks & Recreation Director Ream Wilson indicated the room’s South wall was an exterior wall before the Pram Fleet addition was constructed. When the renovation plans were completed, no signs of the problem were apparent. The City Attorney said a legal remedy is unlikely. In response to a question, Assistant Parks & Recreation Director Art Kader said there was no indication of any problem with the existing floor. The moisture seeped through after the floors were completed. The problem was more serious than first thought. Several options were considered. The remedy seems to be working. The floor has been sealed. The project has a one-year warranty. PW PUBLIC WORKS ADMINISTRATION Work Order, Post, Buckley, Schuh & Jernigan, development of Pretreatment Ordinance for the City & its implementation, $90,260 By delegation of the USEPA (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency) , the FDEP (Florida Department of Environmental Protection) requires all publicly owned wastewater treatment plants with a design capacity of 5 mgd (million gallons per day) or more to develop and implement an IPP (Industrial Pretreatment Program). All 3 of the City’s AWT (Advanced Water Treatment) facilities are 5 mgd or more. IPPs will focus on protecting the collection system infrastructure, treatment plant equipment, plant processes, employees, and citizens of Clearwater The IPP’s goal is to reduce the pass-through of hazardous materials to the environment by eliminating or reducing hazardous materials from entering the sewage system. The scope of work includes development of an ordinance that complies with FDEP regulations for Commission approval and assistance to staff to implement the IPP. PBS&J (Post, Buckley, Schuh & Jernigan) also will coordinate ordinance preparation and IPP implementation between the City of Clearwater, City of Safety Harbor, and FDEP. In response to a question, Engineering Director Rich Baier said this is the first time such an ordinance has been required by the Federal government. The IPP will be an ongoing process. The City of Safety Harbor will spend approximately $13,000 on this item as their portion of the cost. As part of the scope of work, PBS&J will estimate the cost of implementing the ordinance. Mr. Baier said the ordinance could be self-supporting. Staff will discuss this issue with effected businesses. Mr. Baier said this issue is part of the utility study. Lease Agreement, city owned property known as Clearwater Airpark, 1000 N. Hercules Ave., to Clearwater Aircraft, Inc., operate & provide aviation services, five year with 2 consecutive five year renewal options subject to Commission approval prior to expiration of each term As determined by the RFP selection committee, Clearwater Aircraft, Inc. is the top-ranked candidate to provide aviation services and serve as the FBO (Fixed Base Operator) at Clearwater Airpark. Clearwater Aircraft, Inc., is the current FBO. The City and Clearwater Aircraft, Inc., have negotiated in good faith: 1) monthly rent to increase by $3,400 to $7,450, including net revenue from new airplane T-hangars proportioned 75% to City and 25% to Clearwater Aircraft, Inc., resulting in 84% revenue increase; 2) fuel increase of $0.03 per gallon to $0.06 per gallon for 100% revenue increase; 3) beginning December 1, 1997, Clearwater Aircraft, Inc. to assume Airpark monthly mowing operations for term of lease for $18,700 in annual savings; 4) Clearwater Aircraft, Inc. to comply with ADA (Americans With Disabilities Act) deficiencies at flight operations building; and 5) Clearwater Aircraft, Inc., to provide high level of customer service standards as specified in Lease Agreement. Terms of the proposed Lease Agreement were based, in part, upon data supplied by Hunnicutt/Arnold, Real Estate Appraisal and Consulting Services which completed an appraisal of Clearwater Airpark on November 30, 1995. The Clearwater Airport Authority supports renewing the lease with Clearwater Aircraft, Inc. In response to a question, Engineer Glen Bahnick said the new leases will allow hangers to be solely used for the parking of aircraft. Any on-site businesses would require the authorization of the FBO, etc. In response to a question, Mr. Baier said engineering costs are not charged to the Airpark as it is not an enterprise fund. It was questioned how long the pay back for the hangars will take, when the hangars were completed, and who received the additional revenues since that time. Mr. Baier reported a net 84% increase in the base rent and a 100% increase for fuel. In response to a question, Mr. Bahnick said the contract with the FBO requires an annual financial report. The FBO negotiated down the certified audit required in the RFP. In response to a question, Mr. Baier said the City can decrease the number of requests in a RFP without penalty. The City Manager said the City Commission can require an annual certified audit if one was required by the RFP. Concern was expressed the City be protected financially. It was requested copies of the lease be distributed to Commission members. SW SOLID WASTE First Reading Ord. #6215-97 - Relating to schedule for Solid Waste Collection Rates; amending Appendix A, Art. XXV Public Works Fees, Rates and Charges; Sec. (3)(c) Solid Waste Collection Rates Solid Waste rates have not increased since September 1, 1992. On July 1, 1994, Solid Waste rates were reduced $0.75 per month as Citywide recycling was implemented. Burton & Associates has completed a Solid Waste rate study to cover 5-years of operation. The Burton Rate Study recommends monthly increases: 1) single family residence from $16.30 to $17.29 in 1998, to $18.34 in 1999, to $19.46 in 2000, and to $20.65 in 2001; 2) commercial business or multi-family complexes (3 cubic yards - 2 pickups a week) from $138.66 to $147.12 in 1998, to $156.09 in 1999, to $165.61 in 2000, and to $175.71 in 2001; and 3) large commercial business or multi-family complex (8 cubic yards - 2 pickups a week) from $374.91 to $397.78 in 1998, to $422.04 in 1999, to $447.78 in 2000, and to $475.09 in 2001. Increases are necessary due to the need for a new computer system for Utility Customer Service billing, the dumpster screening program, and anticipated CPI (Consumer Price Index) increases during the next 5 years. Ms. Simmons reviewed the revenue sufficiency analysis. The rate study, begun last year, was delayed due to a change in City management and other questions. She recommended utilities maintain 3 months of cash on hand to cover operational expenses. Solid Waste Director Bob Brumback reported Solid Waste rates have not increased since 1992. Staff recommends 4 consecutive rate increases of 6.1% each. These proposed increases will cover the anticipated CPI (Consumer Price Increase), the new computer billing system, and the new dumpster screening program. The department has increased its productivity while keeping costs down. Mr. Brumback reviewed in-kind services provided by the Solid Waste department. New projects include increased service to Clearwater beach and Downtown, Gulf-to-Bay Boulevard improvements, and the dumpster screening program. Robert Lockridge, consultant, reviewed the process used for setting the recommended rates and reviewed the developed model. Recommended rate increases were established so additional debt is not incurred. He reviewed alternative levels of increase in addition to the 4 recommended 6.1% increases. In response to a question, Mr. Lockridge said the cumulative totals of the models differ slightly. A larger up-front rate increase would lower the cumulative rate increase necessary to meet estimated costs. He suggested uniform increases are preferred but noted the City Commission will make this decision. In response to a concern regarding proposed utility rate increases in the Spring, Mr. Lockridge said a $0.06 decrease in recycling rates is planned. While water and sewer rates will increase, stormwater rates will remain unchanged. Concern was expressed the Commission is being asked for a decision on this rate increase before information is available regarding the recommended level of increases for water and sewer rates. Assistant City Manager Rick Hedrick said each City utility is a separate enterprise fund which must stand on its own. Utility studies consider how each utility can reduce expenses and generate revenue. Funding the Solid Waste program has reached a critical point. Further delay will make future increases more difficult and more expensive. Concern was expressed the effectiveness and efficiency of each utility be reviewed as part of the City Manager’s proposed department reviews. Deputy City Manager Kathy Rice said staff hopes to have a firm on board by January to begin these reviews. In response to a recommendation to wait until those reviews begin, Ms. Simmons reported the Solid Waste department needs a rate increase now. She said future rate increases will be analyzed fiscally before being put into effect. Mr. Hedrick said the Solid Waste Department is well run and operates in a competitive environment. He doubted an audit would recommend a significantly different rate increase. He said delays will compound the department’s problems. It was felt the Commission should consider all utility rate increases at the same time. It was suggested the Commission delay consideration of this issue until after the County reviews all revenue alternatives at a January 1998, meeting. The City Manager said if the increase for Solid Waste rates is delayed, a larger increase will be necessary. He said the time required for the planned management reviews of each department will differ. He reported the Solid Waste Department had brought down costs and increased productivity. It was suggested the dumpster screening program may not be necessary. It was noted the FRC (Fiscal Review Committee) supported the rate increase. It was suggested the Commission review the proposed rate increases each year. The importance of maintaining the level of service was noted. In response to a question, Mr. Brumback said weight based rates will be considered first for commercial customers. He said the technology required to weigh trash needs improvements. A report on the roll-off program was requested. Concern was expressed the 1996 audit for the Solid Waste Department indicated the utility had a positive net operating income of $700,000. Mr. Lockridge said those funds were pulled down to pay for planned capital improvements. He noted 2.9% of the proposed 6.1% increase is for capital projects and reserves. In response to a question, Comptroller Paul Nystrom will report on the draw down amount listed in the FY 1997/98 budget. In response to a question, Ms. Simmons said the current billing system will be affected by the year 2000 issue. It was felt the projection that the number of customers will not increase is too conservative. Ms. Simmons said the City is almost built-out. In response to a question, Mr. Nystrom said the Solid Waste Department had 104 employees in 1992 and has 102 currently. Mr. Brumback projected additional Solid Waste employees will not be necessary during the next 4 years. Mr. Lockridge said some temporary employees may be hired. In response to a question, he said the proposed rate increase assumes a 3% CPI for operating costs, 4% on personnel costs, and 8% for health insurance. The assumption for growth is conservative. The dumpster screening project is planned without adding personnel. In response to a question, the City Manager said the cost of the dumpster screening project was included in the Solid Waste rate study. Concern was expressed the dumpster screening project was included in the rate study before being approved by the Commission. Mr. Lockridge estimated the dumpster screening project would have an impact of 0.4%. It was noted this project will increase Solid Waste costs for businesses. It was recommended the dumpster screening project be delayed. Mr. Baier said the proposed rate increase will not happen automatically each year. If staff review indicates the full increase is not necessary, staff will come back to the Commission with a recommendation for a lower rate increase. In response to a question, Mr. Nystrom said the report on roll-offs is difficult to read due to the number of pulls. The City collects cardboard 2 to 3 times a week from some businesses. In reference to questions regarding privatization, Mr. Hedrick noted Clearwater’s Solid Waste Department does much more than pick up waste. There are costs associated with these extra responsibilities. He said Clearwater citizens seem pleased with the services provided by the Solid Waste Department. It was suggested the services could be billed more equitably. In response to a question, Mr. Lockridge said if rates are increased 10.7% the first year, subsequent increases would be lower. If no increase is approved this year, a 3 year 10.5% annual increase will be necessary. It was recommended this service be cost based in the future. CM ADMINISTRATION Contract for tenant build-out at Harborview Center (Pickles Plus Too), Macre Construction, Inc., $158,400; and approve C.O.#1 which reduces the total contract to $109,898 On July 15, 1997, a Request for Bid for a qualified General Contractor to construct a “deli restaurant” at the Harborview Center was released. Subsequent to receiving a $148,400 sole bid from Macre Construction, the City negotiated to reduce the costs to $109,898. Total budgeted funding necessary includes the contract funding of $109,898, and a 10% contingency of $10,989.80. Concern was expressed poor management of this project in the past has resulted in unreasonable delays. It was felt this restaurant should have been in operation a year ago. It was stated the project must be completed so the City can begin to recoup its investment via the lease. In response to a question, Mr. Hedrick said the $100,000 previously approved by the Commission for this project covered interior improvements. The shell is necessary whether or not Pickles Plus occupies the premises. A $100,000 loan for tenant improvements, equipment, and completion of the shell is recommended. In response to a question, Mr. Hedrick said the shell cost $25,000 more than estimated. First Amendment to Lease with Pickles Plus Too, Inc. On August 15, 1995, the City and Pickles Plus Too, Inc. entered into a Lease Agreement for 2,500 square feet, more or less, of a retail sales area on the first floor of the Harborview Center. The initial term of the lease is for 5 years commencing when the certificate of occupancy and all other required approvals are issued. This amendment incorporates changes: 1) increase retail sales area to 2,800 square feet; 2) increase initial term to 6 years, 3 months; and 3) lessee to reimburse City an amount not to exceed $100,000 for construction costs by paying back 10% annually pro-rated on a monthly basis and payable with the rent. In response to a question, Mr. Hedrick said the cancellation clause is based on the date of the CO (Certificate of Occupancy). The City Manager said the amendment will get this project to completion. In response to a question regarding the payback, Mr. Hedrick said if Pickles Plus Too, Inc. renews its lease, the City will recoup its money. If the lease is not renewed, the City will not be repaid that money. The City Attorney indicated that part of the lease was not changed. In response to a question, she said the tenant will not pay more for the extra space as the City had initiated the subject architectural changes. Approve funding criteria for award of sponsorships and charitable contributions and establish funding for same in the amount $50,000 The FY 1997/98 operating budget includes $105,420 in cash contributions: 1) $34,720 - Fun ‘N Sun Festival; 2) $10,000 - 4th of July Festival; 3) $25,000 - Jazz Holiday; 4) $15,000 - Florida Orchestra; 5) $500 - Partners in Self Sufficiency; 6) $5,500 - Advisory Board Dinner; 7) $1,200 - Sister City Program; 8) $300 - Florida League of Cities; 9) $500 - Delegation Luncheon; 10) $2,000 - Phillies Dinner; 11) $700 - Paint Your Heart Out; and 12) $10,000 - Miscellaneous. New or additional requests for the FY 1997/98 budget year include: 1) Florida Orchestra; 2) Chamber Orchestra; 3) Olympic Sailing Team; 4) Dunedin Arts; 5) Littlest Jazz Band; 6) Bombers; 7) Greenwood Panthers; 8) Saturday in the City; and 9) Greenwood Apartments Free Clinic. Funding of $40,000 will be provided from the $1-million of “vision” funding and $10,000 of miscellaneous funding, for a total of $50,000 for other sponsorships and charitable contributions. Staff recommends the City Commission allocate these funds in January for the projects requesting additional dollars. In December, staff can send a notice to those who have applied and request additional information. To critique and award funding, criteria are suggested: 1) benefit to City - (8 - 10) - entire community, (5 - 7) - sector of community, or (1-4) - specific neighborhood; 2) requested program - (8 - 10) - needs funding for 1-year and will self-support upon completion, (4 - 7) - expands service to Clearwater; or (1-3) - currently serves Clearwater; 3) organization’s proven successes - (8 - 10) - strong history of successful programs, (4 - 7) - limited history of successful programs, or (1-3) - new program or organization; and 4) resulting economic development - (8 - 10) - significant spin off, (4 - 7) - catalyst, or (1-3) - program brings people together. Deputy City Manager Kathy Rice said the plan was developed based on Commission direction. The City has received several requests. It was recommended the community at large be noticed regarding these available funds. In response to a question, Ms. Rice suggested the Commission may want to give more weight to a new program. CA LEGAL DEPARTMENT First Reading Ordinances (Cont’d from 11/06/97) Ord. #6205-97 - referendum ordinance re amending City Charter Sec. 2.01(d)(4)(v) to delete referendum requirement for lease of City property with recreation /open space land use designation The City Attorney distributed a list of affected properties: 1) Chi-Chi Rodriguez - 2987 McMullen-Booth Road; 2) Chi-Chi Rodriguez - 3030 McMullen-Booth Road; 3) Carpenter Field - 651 Old Coachman Road; 4) Long Center - 1501 North Belcher Road; 5) Clearwater Airpark & Golf Course - 640 North Hercules & 1850 Airpark Drive; 6) Glen Oaks Golf Course - 1345 Court Street; 7) Clearwater Country Club - 525 N Betty Lane; 8) Community Pride Day Care Center; 9) Ervin All Americans Center; 10) Fulton Management - 1606-1622 Fulton Avenue; 11) Jack Russell Stadium - 801 Phillies Drive; 12) Head Start - 701 N. Missouri Avenue; 12A) vacant; 13) Stone Buick - 1165 Cleveland Street; 14) Jolley Trolley - 311 S. Madison Avenue; 15) 1435 South Greenwood Avenue; 16) 400 Pierce Avenue; 17) Harborview Center; 18) Drew Street Ferry; 19) 421 Drew Street; 20) 301 Seminole Street; 21) Little Theater - 300 Seminole Street; 22) Beach Diner - 56 Causeway Boulevard; 23) Clearwater Seafood Company - 37 Causeway Boulevard; and 24) South Beach Pavilion - 332 S. Gulfview Boulevard. Properties affected by the referendum leasing restriction include: 1) Carpenter Field; 2) Clearwater Golf Course by Airpark; 3) Glen Oaks Golf Course; 4) Clearwater County Club; 5) Jack Russell Stadium; 6) Head Start; 6a) vacant; 7) 400 Pierce Avenue; 8) 301 Seminole Street; and 9) South Beach Pavilion. In response to a question, she said the City has license agreements, not leases, with the Little Leagues. She said it is difficult to understand why some properties were designated Recreation/Open Space at one time. The proposed Charter amendment will only refer to leases. The bluff will not be affected. In response to a question regarding Coachman Park, the City Attorney said restrictions exist only on the bluff and Recreation/Open Space. In response to a question, she said the previously considered beach tower could be built after the proposed changed. She said the amendment could state leases are allowed only for accessory purposes consistent with Recreation/Open Space use. She suggested the Commission may want to expand leased areas in the future. She stated restrictions similar to those on the bluff could be established for the beach. It was suggested additional limitations on future development of Recreation/Open Space be initiated. The City Attorney suggested in the future, the City Commission may wish to build additional facilities to lease. She suggested changing the effective date to 1986 would drop only two properties off the list; neither is zoned Recreation/Open Space. In response to a question, she said this action would not preclude the City from conveying property to construct the new Memorial Causeway Bridge. Other Commission Action Commissioner Seel expressed concern a $0.25 toll has been proposed for Memorial Highway near Tampa International Airport between I-275 and the Courtney Campbell Causeway. Commissioner Seel expressed interest in scheduling meetings similar to County meetings that address issues. The City Manager said staff is in contact with the County regarding this issue. A 2-year budget is being considered. Commissioner Johnson questioned the purpose of the letter regarding Seltzer. The Mayor said he wanted the letter. Commissioner Johnson expressed concern the proposed Interlocal agreement regarding the NEP (National Estuary Program) will add another expensive layer of bureaucracy by starting a new organization, TBNEP (Tampa Bay National Estuary Program). He said more than $250-million has been spent cleaning up Tampa Bay and felt that is enough. He recommended against signing this agreement. The Mayor said the TBNEP will focus of the Tampa Bay Estuary. The TBRPC (Tampa Bay Regional Planning Council) has responsibilities to the entire region and cannot focus on this issue. Local communities have worked on the NEP project for 6 years. She recommended support on the TBNEP. Up to this point, TBRPC, Bay Management, and the NEP have managed the program. Concern was expressed duplication not occur. The program’s total cost is not known. Municipal contributions are based on population. A major focus of the program will be on plans developed by individual cities. Commissioner Hooper referred to the Commission’s fact-finding trip to the City of Ft. Lauderdale to view that city’s accomplishments. He requested an official letter be sent to the City of Ft. Lauderdale’s staff, thanking them for their time. Commissioner Clark congratulated and thanked all involved with Military Appreciation Day. The Military was thanked for their assistance. Commissioner Clark congratulated Central Permitting Director Scott Shuford for his letter to Editor Chuck Pollick regarding inaccuracies published in the Beach Views. Commissioner Clark noted safety concerns of Shady Oak Farms subdivision residents whose only egress is onto McMullen-Booth Road. He recommended a Northbound egress be designed onto Landmark Drive that does not allow drive-through traffic. Commissioner Clark questioned the Commission’s meeting schedule in January 1998. The City Clerk reported the only meeting is scheduled for January 15, 1998, as the 1st Thursday in January falls on New Year’s Day. Adjourn The meeting adjourned at 12:33 p.m.