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02/19/2002CITY COMMISSION WORK SESSION CITY OF CLEARWATER February 19, 2002 Present: Brian J. Aungst Mayor/Commissioner Ed Hart Vice-Mayor/Commissioner Whitney Gray Commissioner Hoyt P. Hamilton Commissioner William C. Jonson Commissioner Also present: William B. Horne II City Manager Garry Brumback Assistant City Manager Ralph Stone Assistant City Manager Pamela K. Akin City Attorney Sue Diana Assistant City Clerk Patricia O. Sullivan Board Reporter The meeting was called to order at 9:00 a.m. at City Hall. Service Awards Four service awards were presented to City employees. Mark J. Behring, Police Department, was presented the February 2002 Employee of the Month award. Network Support Groups was presented the Team Award for January – February 2002. PUR PURCHASING 1) Purchase to replace two and one addition - three (3) Chevrolet Silverado 3500 cab and chassis from Maroone Chevrolet for $68,698 (GSS/Fleet) 2) Purchase to replace two (2) Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD cab and chassis with utility body from Maroone Chevrolet for $58,177 (GSS/Fleet) 3) Purchase equipment corrosion control (prep and paint), Gemini, Inc. for $98,000 (PW) 4) Purchase contract -April 1, 2002 through March 31, 2003 for gas material - steel pipe and fittings from M.T. Deason Co., Inc. for $68,000 (CGS) 5) Purchase to replace two (2) - 2002 John Deere tractors from John Deere Company for $61,357.50 (GSS/Fleet) In response to a question regarding Item #3, Purchasing Manager George McKibben said the material will be used to degrease and repaint all equipment at the Water Treatment Control Plant. DS DEVELOPMENT SERVICES Adopt City Commission Policy Statement to establish criteria for Waiver/Reduction of Lot Clearing and Nuisance Abatement/Demolition Liens. On January 18, 2001, the City Commission forgave $2,000 of $2,367.77 in principal and interest on liens placed on a property for lot clearing violations, due to poor maintenance by the previous owner. The new property owner was keeping the property well maintained, and although aware of the lien prior to purchasing the property, he requested a reduction based on improvements he had made. The Commission approved waiving $2,000 of the costs, and directed staff to standardize guidelines for future reviews of such requests. For example, when a property owner does not clean up a site or demolish an unsafe structure, the City must hire a contractor to do the work. All costs incurred by the City for these projects are billed to the property owner. If not paid in a timely manner, the City places a lien against the property. Currently, 279 lot clearing liens totaling $92,000, 36 code enforcement liens totaling $1,569,520, and 47 minimum housing code/demolition liens totaling $203,280, are in place against properties in the City. To encourage redevelopment and aesthetic improvements as confirmed by the Commission's January approval of the lien reduction, staff proposes considering certain factors regarding waivers/release of liens on properties previously in non-compliance with codes. The City Commission placed most existing lot clearing, nuisance abatement, and unsafe structure/demolition liens following other legal efforts to correct non-compliant situations such as overgrown lots. Staff recommends the City Commission approve certain factors in a policy statement for waiver/reduction of liens placed by the City Commission. The Municipal Code Enforcement Board will continue to review requests for waiver/ reduction of liens placed on properties by that board. To encourage property development/redevelopment and to enhance property values and living conditions, staff recommends consideration of factors regarding requests for waivers/reductions of lot clearing, nuisance abatement, and/or unsafe structures/demolition liens: 1) if the violation cited has been brought into compliance; 2) if extreme or undue hardship is shown regarding payment of the lien and/or complying with Code during the required time; 3) if code violations exist on other properties owned by the violator or prospective purchaser; 4) if a development or redevelopment proposal is submitted to improve or upgrade the property; 5) if, given such a development or redevelopment plan has been submitted, it would be impractical to take the compliance action directed by the Commission; 6) if payment of the lien would hinder a proposed sale of the property; 7) the amount of a lien shall not be reduced below the cost of related administrative services incurred by the City; and 8) if a property appraisal, submitted by the applicant, demonstrates to staff that the cost of the lien has been absorbed. It was requested staff provide a list of current liens. In response to a question, the City Attorney said subject properties must be brought into compliance. It was stated the City will never collect on liens such as the $250,000 lien on a property valued at $90,000. Concern was expressed the ability to have liens waived may undermine the power the threat of a lien has in encouraging compliance. Development Services Director Jeff Kronschnabl stated the change will help enforcement and meet neighborhood goals for improvement. Assistant City Manager Ralph Stone said the change will help the purchasers of heavily liened properties, who did not incur the lien. Concern was expressed the change not defeat efforts to increase enforcement and encourage bad ownership practices. The City Attorney said the change allows the lien to be reduced to a reasonable amount. She recommended it not be reduced below the cost of associated administration services. As a property’s mortgage is superior to a City lien, it is unlikely large liens ever can be collected. In response to a request, Mr. Kronschnabl reviewed each proposed factor. In response to a question, the City Attorney said only in extreme cases of code violations can the City sue for nuisance. If the grass is high, the City will have it mowed and place a lien on the property. The City Manager said there is no current mechanism to waive a lien. He said the change is an improved way to address the issue. GSS GENERAL SUPPORT SERVICES Award contract to Gemini Inc. of Tarpon Springs, Florida for $24,000 to paint the Parks Beautification Complex (507 Vine Avenue) The PBI (Parks Beautification) Complex, a City facility, was cited for not meeting Code requirements. Painting the facility is necessary. Quotations were solicited, and the lowest, most responsive quotation came from Gemini Inc. for $24,000. While the project was included on the CIP list, it was not funded. Staff has identified $4,000 for use. A first quarter budget amendment will provide the additional $20,000 needed in the project with an appropriation from General Fund unappropriated retrained earnings. In response to a question, Parks & Recreation Director Kevin Dunbar said last year the Parks & Recreation Department had returned approximately $40,000 to the General Fund. It was felt similar projects should be funded through the normal budget process. Assistant City Manager Garry Brumback said the project was brought forward a year early because the facility does comply with Code. A City initiative last April identified City facilities that were out of compliance. He recommended the project not be delayed. He said most departments were able to absorb costs related to meeting compliance. PR PARKS AND RECREATION Approve fifteen-year lease and a subsequent renewable lease extension for up to 30 years between Pinellas Community Center, Inc. AKA the Long Center and the City to lease City land for the operation of a facility for public recreation currently known as The Long Center, including an annual lease payment by the City. Pinellas Community Center Inc. (Center) leases property from the City at 1501 North Belcher Road for a public recreational and educational facility. The lease is scheduled to expire April 19, 2006. During the original 10 years of this operational lease, staffs at the Center and City have found the agreement does not address adequately the working relationship between both organizations. Both organizations agree it is necessary to craft a lease agreement that is consistent and functional as to how the City and Center will transact business and how the City will utilize the facility. The new agreement provides for a City presence in offering diverse programming for the community. Highlights include: 1) priority use for City scheduled programs and activities; 2) a priority of use ranking has been established; 3) annual base lease payment of $327,000 with annual 3% COLA (Cost of Living Adjustment) includes program use, office space, storage for all City sponsored and co-sponsored programs; 4) establishment of an annual $67,000 CIP to fund capital replacement items (FKA sinking fund); 5) lease payment and capital improvement funds subject to annual City budget appropriation; 6) core programming protection for any City programs or rental which might compete with, encroach or acoustically interfere with any City offering; 7) detailed revenue and expense reports; 8) up to 4 swim meets and 4 athletic tournaments in facility with no rental fee. Prevailing Center rental fees will be applicable for tournaments that exceed these thresholds. The proposal reaffirms the original intent of the facility and also that the facility is to be maintained, operated, open and accessible to the public in a manner generally consistent with the operation of City public recreational facilities. Staff recommends approval of a fifteen-year lease between the Center and the City for operation of the Long Center, and the renewable extension. In response to a question, Mr. Dunbar said discussions are underway regarding the City of Safety Harbor’s continued participation and they are aware of this agreement. The City of Safety Harbor has expressed concern regarding reciprocity as the City of Clearwater is not providing many programs. Clearwater has agreed to increase programming, using existing resources. In response to a question, Mr. Dunbar said the City’s storage and office space is now included in the base rent, which also covers all City activities and space usage. The agreement allows four swim meets per year. The City is responsible for reimbursing direct costs, such as staff on Sunday when the facility is closed. A rental charge could be required for a fifth meet. The participating group would pay those costs. Concern was expressed regarding scheduling conflicts. In response to a question, Mr. Dunbar said the agreement includes a list of priorities. The City Attorney said the lease includes a provision for a 30-year extension, as permitted by the City Charter. Mr. Dunbar and Long Center Executive Director Mark Abdo were complimented for their efforts. PW PUBLIC WORKS Ratify and confirm the additional transfer of $43,807.50 to the State of Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) for the relocation of existing potable water and sanitary sewer facilities impacted by the FDOT's SR 595 (Alt. US 19/Fort Harrison Ave.) Roadway Improvement Project. FDOT has designed the roadway widening of SR 595 (Alt. US 19/Fort Harrison Ave.) between West Bay Drive and Drew Street. Proposed improvements include resurfacing the roadway and upgrading the drainage system. The one-year project, anticipated to begin in June 2002, will require the relocation or adjustment of City water and sanitary sewer mains and appurtenances within the project limits. Staff has coordinated the design for these utilities with FDOT, which will receive bids for the entire project and award a contract to the low bidder. The original agenda item, which the City Commission had approved on August 2, 2001, established a $100,000 engineer’s preliminary estimate. Due to FDOT’s timeline, the agreement must be processed prior to completion of FDOT’s roadway design. The final engineer’s estimate is $143,807.50. FDOT requires the City to transfer this amount prior to advertising the project for bid. The exact costs will be determined by the contractor’s bid and may vary. Breakout of the $43,807.50 in additional funds required by the engineer’s estimate is: $33,782.50 - Water Line Relocation and 2) $10,025.00 - Sanitary Utility Relocation. On March 1, 2001, the City Commission adopted Resolution #01-07, establishing the City’s intent to reimburse certain project costs incurred with future tax-exempt financing. Projects identified with 2001 revenue bonds as a funding source were included in the project list associated with Resolution #01-07. In response to a concern that the City is paying to pave Myrtle Avenue before it is swapped with FDOT, City Engineer Mike Quillen said the projects would be of equivalent value except for added costs to the Myrtle Avenue project associated with pipes from the Town Pond. The project is scheduled for completion 6 months before the new bridge is open. Approve Supplemental Work Order #1 in the amount of $18,000 to Tampa Bay Engineering, Inc., for additional utility relocation design services being performed in conjunction with the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) SR 55/US 19N (CSX RR to south of Enterprise Rd.) Roadway Improvement Project. FDOT (Florida Department of Transportation) has designed the roadway improvements for SR 55/US 19N between the CSX RR to south of Enterprise Road. Improvements include construction of overpasses at the US 19N intersections with NE Coachman and Sunset Point roads. Construction is anticipated to begin in January 2003. The project will necessitate relocation or adjustment of the City’s water and sanitary sewer mains and appurtenances within the project limits. Staff has coordinated the design for these utilities with FDOT, which will receive bids for the entire project and award a contract to the low bidder. Due to recent FDOT changes to the final roadway plans, the City must revise the final utility relocation plan, requiring $18,000 in additional funding: 1) $13,680 – water line relocation and 2) $4,320 – sanitary utility relocation. On March 1, 2001, the City Commission adopted Resolution #01-07, establishing the City’s intent to reimburse certain project costs incurred with future tax-exempt financing. Projects identified with 2001 revenue bonds as a funding source were included in the project list associated with Resolution #01-07. In response to a question, Mr. Quillen said the redesign may increase City relocation costs. Staff is working with FDOT and a landscape architect regarding landscaping, which should equal 1% of the construction costs. That portion of the project will not occur until construction is being finished. In discussion are fountains, retention ponds, and special concrete. In response to a question, Public Works Administrator Mahshid Arasteh said reclaimed water is not yet available for the project area. It was noted changes may come back for higher costs after FDOT bids the project. Award a contract to DMS Environmental, Inc., in the amount of $135,000 for smoke testing of sanitary sewer lines at various locations throughout the City of Clearwater, in accordance with Sec. 2.564(1)(d), Code of Ordinances, City of Port Orange, Florida contract. The City has determined that smoke tests of sanitary sewer pipeline will be required during the next 8 months. The goal is to maintain the integrity of the sanitary sewer system and minimize disruptions in service. DMS Environmental, Inc., has agreed to honor the rate schedule as outlined in their contract with the city of Port Orange. The City will direct the contract to high priority areas established in the Smoke Testing and Inspection Program of the Sanitary Sewer Evaluation Study. Areas were targeted based on the age of pipes and lines showing high flow rates, which indicates possible groundwater infiltration. On March 1, 2001, the City Commission adopted Resolution #01-07, establishing the City’s intent to reimburse certain project costs incurred with future tax-exempt financing. Projects identified with 2001 revenue bonds as a funding source were included in the project list associated with Resolution #01-07. In response to a concern, Public Utilities Director Andy Neff said smoke that occasionally seeps into residences is not toxic and causes no problems. Staff distributes door hangars explaining the process prior to testing. It was recommended the door hangars be bilingual, including Spanish. Approve amendment of the Capital Improvement Program (CIP) to restructure current stormwater utility funding by reducing project budgets by $306,300.92 of stormwater revenue and $6,628,284.45 of FY 1999 revenue bond proceeds for a total decrease of $6,934,585.37 and increasing project budgets by $18,135,387 of FY2002 revenue bond proceeds, $3,100,000 of grant revenue from the Southwest Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD), $1,500,000 of grant revenue from a Florida Department of Environment Protection (FDEP) water resource grant and $277,000 of lease purchase revenue for a total increase of $23,012,387 resulting in a net budget increase of $16,077,801.63. On November 15, 2001, the City Commission adopted Ordinance 6855-01, increasing stormwater utility rates per ERU (equivalent residential unit) to $6.13 beginning January 1, 2002, $7.16 beginning October 1, 2002, $8.01 beginning October 1, 2003, $8.65 beginning October 1, 2004, and $9.35 beginning October 1, 2005. In 2001, Burton & Associates completed a stormwater utility rate study update requesting five rate increases over the period January 1, 2001 to October 1, 2005. These CIP budget amendments were part of the funding requirements included in the rate study update. The restructuring will improve operating cash flows in the Stormwater Utility Fund by converting project funding from unrestricted operating revenues to future bond proceeds, to establish project budgets for Commission approved funding agreements with other governmental entities, to establish project budgets for new FY 2001 and FY2002 projects included in the 2001 rate study update, and to adjust budgets in the 1999 Stormwater Revenue Bond Construction Fund to equal actual proceeds received from the issuance of the bonds. All amendments are in line with the 2001 rate study update. On November 15, 2001, the City Commission adopted Resolution 01-21, establishing the City’s intent to reimburse certain project costs incurred with future tax-exempt financing. Projects identified with 2002 revenue bonds as a funding source were included in the project list associated with Resolution 01-21. Cooperative funding agreements with SWFWMD (Southwest Florida Water Management District) and FDEP (Florida Department of Environmental Protection) were previously approved by the Commission: 1) $500,000 - Kapok Wetland & Floodplain Restoration with SWFWMD - Total $3,000,000; 2) $750,000 - Stevenson Creek Implementation Projects with SWFWMD – total $750,000; 3) $1.5-million - Stevenson Creek Implementation Projects with FDEP – total $1.5-million; and 4) $1,850,000 - Town Lake with SWFWMD – total $3,105,000. In response to a question, Controller Keith Bush said the proposal will combine related accounts and establish a proper funding mechanism. PLD PLANNING Public Hearing & First Reading Ord #6928-02 approve text amendments to the Community Development Code. Planning Department staff is charged with reviewing the Community Development Code annually to determine if additions, deletions, or revisions are needed to improve the Code’s administration or imposed regulations. Staff has conducted its review and comprehensive amendments are being proposed. A list of proposed amendments was presented at the January 7, 2002 Work Session when the Commission provided direction regarding issues related to the transfer of development rights, vending machine signage and concentration, and tree replacement requirements. The Commission also had directed staff not to include certain proposed amendments. In her February 18, 2002 memorandum, Planning Director Cyndi Tarapani reviewed proposed revisions to the Code and deletions based on legal counsel direction. Recommended revisions: 1) Section 77 regulating vending machine: a) clarify two machine limit does not include machines not visible from public right-of-way or adjacent properties and b) all vending machine signage must be flush with machine; 2) Section 100 regarding seawall maintenance and unmaintained seawalls; 3) Section 102 to continue permitting plantings in rights-of-way, but not to allow them to extend over sidewalks, curb lines, etc.; 4) Section 104 re seawalls; 5) Section 114 to address first amendment concerns regarding non-commercial based language; 6) Section 118 to revise way freestanding signs are measured at elevated intersections; 7) Section 125 to change the Comprehensive Sign Program cap for attached signs to a maximum of 5% of the building façade to which the sign is to be attached, and for freestanding signs, to a maximum of two times the total area of sign faces permitted under the minimum sign standards on the parcel proposed for development; 8) Section 128 to clarify length of time a portable storage unit may remain on a property during an emergency; and 9) Section 146 to clarify how TDRs (Transfer of Development Rights) can be used based on PPC (Pinellas Planning Council) comments regarding consistency with Countywide Rules. Ms. Tarapani introduced the Planning staff. Ms. Tarapani reviewed the process to bring forward these Code text amendments, which included eight public meetings and a public workshop at the Harborview Center. On the advice of the City Attorney, staff proposes to readdress language related to signs in April, after a hearing on current litigation. Proposed changes include two groups of amendments related to signs. New vending restrictions would limit the amount of advertising to 35% of the face of the machine. Ms. Tarapani said currently advertising on selection buttons does not count toward the cumulative total, however, some new vending machines feature extremely large buttons with advertising on them. She recommended the City Commission consider an amendment that would consider advertising on vending machine buttons as part of the total advertising on the machine. It was felt this recommendation would level the playing field for nearby businesses, which offer the same products for sale. In response to a remark, Ms. Tarapani said glass-fronted vending machines, which display snacks, rarely are located outside. Senior Planner Gina Clayton stated Pepsi had indicated the vending machines in question are not designed to be outdoors. She said Coca-Cola has been very cooperative, indicating they have offered to change out their vending machines’ front panels, if necessary. In response to a question, she said the Code currently does not address indoor advertising. It was suggested the loophole related to the buttons be addressed and that staff return with recommendations. Support was expressed for including advertising on selection buttons as part of the total advertising on an outdoor vending machine. Concern was expressed the restriction would be “splitting hairs.” The City Manager stated as signage evolves, the City will need to continue reviewing its effect. Regarding businesses abutting elevated roads, staff recommended limiting the additional height for signs to 14 feet taller than the elevated roadway immediately abutting the business. Ms. Tarapani said only the side of businesses abutting elevated roads would qualify for additional height. It was recommended language clarify that businesses, which abut service roads, not the elevated road, qualify for additional height. Discussion ensued regarding difficulty drivers have in viewing some signs by elevated roadways. In response to a suggestion, the City Manager said FDOT was not supportive of adding small business signs at exits preceding elevated roadways. It was requested staff engage FDOT regarding this issue as signs on Interstate roads advertise businesses at some exits. Ms Tarapani said the current Code caps attached signage to 128 square-feet, which is too small for large buildings. She said the 128 square-foot cap for freestanding sign also is a problem and recommended it too be increased. The plan must meet rigorous design criteria. It was requested staff provide examples of signage as proposed. It was requested a comparison of current and proposed signage be provided for Sam’s Club, Clearwater Mall, Countryside Mall, and Countryside Mall stores: 1) Sears; 2) JCPenney; 3) Dillard’s; and 4) Burdines. In response to a question, Ms. Tarapani said the Clearwater Mall developers have requested greater signage than recommended by staff. Concern was expressed the development code was designed to serve Clearwater for 10 years and should not be amended so soon. The City Manager said a Code provision requires annual review and amendments. He reported receiving numerous complaints regarding the sign issue since the Code was adopted. He had directed staff to come forward with recommendations to deal with those issues. He said the current sign code may not be business friendly and that proposed changes offer a better way to meet the needs of businesses and the community. He said recommended changes are designed to meet the intent of the Code, not the needs of developers. It was recommended first reading of the ordinance for this item be continued to provide enough time for staff to provide requested information. A review of recent changes to the sign code and reasons for those changes was requested. A copy of comments made at the public workshop was requested. It was requested Commissioners be update regarding all changes, as they are proposed. The public hearing could be held. In response to a question, Ms. Tarapani said changes to the transfers of development rights are based on preliminary information from the PPC (Pinellas Planning Council). Staff is awaiting a reply from the PPC regarding the consistency of City proposed language. Public Hearing & First Reading Ord # 6924-02, 6925-02 - Land Use Plan Amendment and Rezoning for property at 19034 US 19 North from Commercial General to Residential Medium (Lot 1, Bradford Court Subdivision in Section 19-29S-16E) (Bradford Scott Corporation) LUZ 01-09-08 The 4.3-acre vacant rectangular site, with limited frontage on US 19N, is between Nursery Road and Harn Boulevard. The request will allow the applicant to construct 64 townhouses. Commercial zoning does not permit residential development without a mixed use. The request is compatible with nearby uses. The property does not lend itself to commercial development due to its limited frontage and visibility on US 19N. The project will serve as a transition between more intensive multi-family uses and commercial uses. Staff has determined the proposed land use plan amendment and rezoning are consistent with the Code. The item must be sent to the DCA (Department of Community Affairs) for review prior to second reading. In response to a question, Ms. Clayton said she did not know if access to the project will be limited to US 19N. She said the developer is working to obtain access for the property off Harn Boulevard. Another parcel of land may be added to the site. Other City Attorney Items Authorize Outside Counsel to represent the City and James Wood re: Palisano v. City et.al. The City was served with a lawsuit alleging that Ms. Palisano’s civil rights were violated. The Code states that the City shall save harmless and protect and defend all employees in any civil action or proceeding in any state or federal court arising out of any alleged act or omission which occurred or is alleged in the complaint to have occurred while the employee was acting within the scope of his public employment or duties, or which is brought to enforce a provision of Section 1981, 1983 or 1985 or Title 42 of the United States Code. The City Attorney has assigned defense of this lawsuit as it pertains to the City and James Wood to Deborah Crumbley, Esq., of the law firm of Thompson, Sizemore & Gonzalez. The initial budget is estimated at $40,000 for defense of this case. The City Attorney believes separate representation is required for Donald Brown. The initial budget for defense of Mr. Brown is estimated at $20,000. Mr. Brown will be provided a choice of lawyers with experience in the area. Total funding of $60,000 will be charged to the City Attorney’s professional services budget. In response to a question, the City Attorney said she has estimated outside counsel will cost $60,000. It is unlikely costs will exceed that during this budget year. She will return to the City Commission if additional funds are needed. Establish compensation of Assistant City Attorney II's in SAMP 6 band and Assistant City Attorney's I's in SAMP 5 band. Also, authorize one-time equity adjustments for Paul R. Hull and Leslie Dougall-Sides. The City Charter states the City Attorney shall establish and the City Commission shall approve compensation for Assistant City Attorneys, who hold positions of significant responsibility and are charged with making decisions critical to the City. Assistant City Attorney positions are unclassified and not associated with any SAMP (Supervisory, Administrative, Managerial, and Professional) level. The scope of responsibility, independence, and authority exercised by Assistant City Attorney IIs is comparable to department directors. SAMP 6 salaries range from $60,000 to $110,000. Recent surveys indicate the average yearly salary for Assistant City Attorney IIs in comparably sized Florida cities ranges from $59,140 to $96,181, with a mean of $ 90,115. The comparable SAMP band for Assistant City Attorney IIs is SAMP band 6. Assistant City Attorney Is exercise responsibility and authority comparable to Assistant Department Directors. SAMP 5 band salaries range from $40,000 to $90,000. Recent surveys indicate the average yearly salary for Assistant City Attorney Is in comparably sized Florida cities ranges from $42,368 to $70,235, with a mean of $52,695. The appropriate SAMP band for Assistant City Attorney Is is SAMP band 5. As of January 1, 2002, Assistant City Attorney II Paul Hull, an attorney for 24 years, has 11 years of service with the City. His salary is 9% below the average for comparable Florida cities and counties. A one-time equity 9% increase is recommended. As of January 1, 2002, Leslie Dougall-Sides, Assistant City Attorney II, an attorney for 23 years, has 6.5 years of service with the City. Her salary is 23% below the average for comparable Florida cities and counties. A one-time equity increase of 20% is recommended. Hereafter, salary increases shall be in accordance with annual SAMP increases. A spreadsheet of SAMP employees was requested. It was stated this issue should have been dealt with during the budgetary process. City Manager Verbal Reports Appoint Commission Member to represent the City Commission on the Canvassing Board Consensus was to appoint Commissioner Jonson as the City Commission representative on the Canvassing Board. Commission Discussion Items a) Amendment to the Interlocal Agreement Creating a Tampa Bay Regional Planning Council Commissioner Jonson reviewed the amendment to the interlocal Agreement creating the TBRPC (Tampa Bay Regional Planning Council) to allow TBRPC to purchase an office. Concern was expressed regarding liability issues for the City. The City Attorney will research this issue. Other Commission Action Commissioner Gray said plans are to coordinate a Countywide benefit for ”211,” with a six benefit drive ending April 6., 2002. It has been recommended that donations be collected at each municipality’s City Hall. She said the drive can piggyback on the April 6, 2002 scheduled concert. The City will not be responsible for distributing the donations. Consensus was to participate and determine a secure spot for donation drop-offs. Commissioner Jonson distributed information regarding Pinellas County’s proposed settlements with two billboard companies, expressed concern the removal schedule could allow some billboards to remain in enclaves until 2014, and said additional billboards will be permitted in unincorporated areas along US 19N. He requested City Commission feedback. Mayor Aungst referenced a newspaper article regarding proposed artwork for the center of the roundabout. While staff has seen the proposal, it has not been presented to the City Commission for comment. The City Manager said changes to the interior of the roundabout will not be discussed until the Spring. He said comments attributed to staff were inaccurate and untruthful. He had recommended the artist discuss his proposal with each Commissioner. The Mayor expressed concern the newspaper had run the story before Commission input. Adjourn The meeting adjourned at 11:47 a.m.