08/05/2004
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING
CITY OF CLEARWATER
August 5, 2004
Present: Brian J. Aungst
Frank Hibbard
Hoyt P. Hamilton
William C. Jonson
Carlen Petersen
Mayor
Vice-Mayor
Council member
Council member
Councilmember
Also present: William B. Horne II
Garry Brumback
Pamela K. Akin
Cynthia E. Goudeau
Brenda Moses
City Manager
Assistant City Manager
City Attorney
City Clerk
Board Reporter
The Mayor called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. at City Hall. The invocation
was offered by Donna Oberkreser, Central Christian Church. The Mayor led the Pledge
of Allegiance.
To provide continuity for research, items are in agenda order although not
necessarily discussed in that order.
4. Introductions and Awards
5. Presentations:
5.1 End of Session Report and Presentation - Rep Farkas
Representative Frank Farkas reviewed legislative issues addressed this year.
He said Florida is one of the few states that has had a surplus in the economic downturn
and is leading the nation in job growth. He said there is an influx of people coming to
Florida making infrastructure one of our biggest challenges. Also discussed were
unfunded mandates, health insurance and the premium assistance plan.
The Mayor presented him a plaque in appreciation of work done during the 2004
legislative session.
5.2 Ken Hartman, FDOT District Secretary. Memorial Causewav Bridoe
FDOT (Florida Department of Transportation) District Secretary Ken Hartman
announced that a memo of understanding has been executed that acknowledges costs
related to repairs will be borne by PCL, how the repairs will be done, no related claims
will arise from the repairs and the bridge will be open to traffic on September 1, 2005.
He thanked the City for their partnership and patience regarding one of the most
complex construction issues he has seen. Replacement twin columns will be
constructed around the four problem columns, salvaging the entire superstructure and
saving time and money. After completion of the twin columns, the problem columns will
be removed. The twin columns will be similar to the bridge's original design.
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Jerry Harder, PCl Vice-President, said PCl has worked diligently on the twin pier
replacement concept. He said the bridge will be stronger and safer after construction of
the twin towers is complete. Final design plans will be presented to FDOT in October.
In response to a question, Mr. Hartman expressed confidence in the project and
said, if the bridge is not completed by September 1, 2005, there will be a cash
disincentive to PCL. Mr. Harder anticipated the repair costs will be less than $10 million.
The original $25 million repair estimate was based on removing the structure. He said
his staff's consciousness regarding this project has been extremely heightened. PCl
also has employed a new design engineer. Explosives will not be used to remove the
problem piers.
In response to a question, Engineer William Nickas reviewed the imbalance that
cracked the piers and the new concept of replacing the existing piers with the twin piers.
He said the bridge will meet the 75-year durability requirements. He said if any new
problems are found, PCl is committed to reinforce at their cost.
Mr. Hartman said an independent engineer will evaluate the project. A copy of
the memo of understanding will be forwarded to the City and describes other issues still
to be addressed.
Discussion ensued regarding liquidated damages and Mr. Hartman said these
have been negotiated to get the project completed.
Discussion ensued in regard to the footing for 6R and Mr. Hartman said due to
the placement of the new columns there is no reason for concern. Mr. Nikas explained
how the new columns would be tied into the existing footings and superstructure.
In response to a question, Mr. Hartman said Clearwater will not receive funds to
cover construction related traffic control costs. He said they are willing to work with staff
regarding suggestions for traffic alternatives during construction.
The Council recessed from 6:40 to 6:48 p.m.
6. Approval of Minutes
6.1 Citv Council - Julv 15. 2004
Council member Jonson moved to approve the minutes of the regular meeting of
July 15, 2004, as recorded and submitted in written summation by the City Clerk to each
Councilmember. The motion was duly seconded and carried unanimously.
7. Citizens to be Heard re Items Not on the Agenda
John Hirschman requested the City establish a strategic planning process and
strengthen its communication profile by using the newspaper, modifying its website, and
hiring a government or urban planning consultant.
Glenn Whitaker, member of Countryside Kiwanis Club, said his organization is
part of the Adopt-A-Street Program to reduce litter. He expressed concern the City's
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Adopt-A-Street application has a $10 fee, as his nonprofit organization has done a good
job cleaning streets for years.
Robert Bender said it is difficult to access Island Estates and Clearwater beach
from the mainland and requested the City address parking on Cleveland Street.
Public Hearings
8. Administrative public hearings
8.1 Approve the applicant's request to vacate the 3-foot drainaqe and utilitv easements
Iyinq alona the north and south sides of the north property line of Lot 41, Imperial Park
Unit 1, (a.k.a. 2012 Imperial Way), less the east 5-feet thereof and pass Ordinance
#7323-04 on first readinq. (VAC2004-10 Derosia-Fenn).
The applicant owns all of Lot 41 and the south 12 feet of Lot 40; the vacation will
allow the property owner to construct a swimming pool and pool enclosure across the
shared property line where the easements are located.
Progress Energy, Verizon, Brighthouse Cable and Knology Broadband have no
objections to the vacation request. No City utilities are located in the easements to be
vacated. Public Works Administration has no objections to the vacation request.
Councilmember Jonson moved to approve the applicant's request to vacate the
3-foot drainage and utility easements lying along the north and south sides of the north
property line of Lot 41, Imperial Park Unit 1, (a.k.a. 2012 Imperial Way), less the east 5-
feet thereof, (VAC2004-10 Derosia-Fenn). The motion was duly seconded and carried
unanimously.
Ordinance #7323-04 was presented for first reading and read by title only.
Councilmember Petersen moved to pass Ordinance #7323-04 on first reading. The
motion was duly seconded and upon roll call, the vote was:
"Ayes": Hibbard, Hamilton, Jonson, Petersen, and Aungst.
"Nays": None.
8.2 Approve the applicant's request to vacate a 10-foot utility easement that lies in the
north10-feet of the private street riaht-of-way of Penmar Drive. said easement more
particularlv described in Exhibit "A" attached. for property located at 702 Bavview
Avenue and pass Ordinance #7322-04 on first readinq. (VAC2004-09 Our Lady of Divine
Providence.
The applicant is seeking vacation of the easement in order to relocate an existing
worship building, presently in a flood zone, onto an elevated portion of the site.
Progress Energy, Verizon, Brighthouse Cable and Knology Broadband have no
objections to the vacation request.
Presently, a 4-inch water main and an abandoned natural gas pipe are located in
the subject easement. Clearwater Gas has no objections to the vacation request and
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the water line will be abandoned as part of the redevelopment of the site. No further
need for the easement is anticipated. Public Works Administration has no objections to
the vacation request.
Councilmember Hibbard moved to approve the applicant's request to vacate a
10-foot utility easement that lies in the north 10-feet of the private street right-of-way of
Penmar Drive, said easement more particularly described in Exhibit "A" attached, for
property located at 702 Bayview Avenue. The motion was duly seconded and carried
unanimously.
Ordinance #7322-04 was presented for first reading and read by title only.
Councilmember Hamilton moved to pass Ordinance #7322-04 on first reading. The
motion was duly seconded and upon roll call, the vote was:
"Ayes": Hibbard, Hamilton, Jonson, Petersen, and Aungst.
"Nays": None.
8.3 Declare as surplus for the purpose of qrantinq a perpetual utility Distribution
Easement to Proqress Enerqy. a portion of the Southwest 1/4 of Section 22. Township
29 South. Ranqe 15 East. Pinellas County. Florida. commonly known as Ross Norton
Park. containinq 19.56 acres. more or less. as more specifically described in the
conveyinq instrument. and authorize appropriate officials to execute same.
The City commenced construction of its state-of-the-art Recreation Center and
. skateboard park at Ross Norton in February 2004.
Progress Energy will be providing electric energy, service and communications
systems for the complex. In addition to providing power service and distribution,
Progress Energy will install and maintain site lighting throughout the recreation complex.
The subject easement grant will provide Progress Energy a ten-foot wide
perpetual easement lying five feet each side of the centerlines of all of its facilities as
designed and installed by mutual agreement with the City.
Should the City determine the future relocation of Progress Energy utilities are
necessary for additional orderly development of Ross Norton Park, the City will be
required to bear the cost of such relocation.
Councilmember Jonson moved to approve declaring as surplus for the purpose
of granting a perpetual utility Distribution Easement to Progress Energy, a portion of the
Southwest 1/4 of Section 22, Township 29 South, Range 15 East, Pinellas County,
Florida, commonly known as Ross Norton Park, containing 19.56 acres, more or less, as
more specifically described in the conveying instrument, and authorize appropriate
officials to execute same. The motion was duly seconded and carried unanimously.
9. Quasi-judicial public hearings - None.
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10. Second Readings - public hearing
10.1 Adopt Ordinance #7307-04 on second readinq. amendinq schedule for Stormwater
Utilitv Rates.
Ordinance #7307-04 was presented for second reading and read by title only.
Councilmember Petersen moved to pass and adopt Ordinance #7307-04 on second and
final reading. The motion was duly seconded and upon roll call, the vote was:
"Ayes": Hibbard, Hamilton, Jonson, Petersen, and Aungst.
"Nays": None.
10.2 Adopt Ordinance #7320-04 on second readino. vacatinq the east three feet of the
5-foot drainaoe and utilitv easement Ivinq alonq the west property line of Lot 9. Block 13.
Mandalav Subdivision.
Ordinance #7320-04 was presented for second reading and read by title only.
Councilmember Hibbard moved to pass and adopt Ordinance #7320-04 on second and
final reading. The motion was duly seconded and upon roll call, the vote was:
"Ayes": Hibbard, Hamilton, Jonson, Petersen, and Aungst.
"Nays": None.
City Manager Reports
11. Consent Agenda - Approved as submitted.
11.1 Approve settlement of Polinq v. City (personal iniury action) in amount of $37.500.
11.2 Award a contract in the amount of $254.448 to American LaFrance Medic Master of
Sanford. Florida for the purchase of two 2004 Freiqhtliner M-2 business class Advanced
Life Support Rescue Unit in accordance with Florida Fire Chiefs Association. Florida
Sheriffs Association. and the Florida Association of Counties Bid 3 (03-04-0820) and
authorize the appropriate officials to execute same.
11.3 Declare surplus to the needs of the City and authorize disposal throuqh sale at the
Tampa Machinery Auction. Tampa. Florida. the attached list of vehicles and equipment.
11.4 Approve payment of $85.000 to settle the Iiabilitv claim of Lesa Neal and Gary Neal
and authorize the appropriate officials to execute same.
11.5 Approve a donation to Clearwater Homeless Intervention Proiect. Inc. (CHIP) for
fundinq of operations in the amount of $100.000.
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11.6 Approve a 10-vear lease. with Florida State Council Pentecostal Assemblies. Inc..
of a portion of Christ Temple Church propertv at 1304 North Martin Luther Kino. Jr.
Avenue. leoallv described as the East 36 feet of the North 50 feet of Lot 7. and the North
50 feet of Lot 8. LESS the East 5 feet. Block 3. C. E. JACKSON'S SUBDIVISION. at
$1.200 annual rent for a total cost of $12.000. and authorize appropriate officials to
execute same.
11.7 Accept a sidewalk easement over and across a portion of the Northeast ~ of the
Northeast ~ of Sec. 21-29-15. conveyed bv Morton Plant Hospital Association. Inc. in
consideration of receipt of $1 and the benefits to be derived therefrom and authorize the
appropriate officials to execute same.
11.8 Accept a 20-foot wide Utilitv Easement to encumber a portion of the Northeast ~ of
Sec. 18-29-16. conveyed bv the Board of Trustees of St. Petersburo Colleoe in
consideration of receipt of $1 and the benefits to be derived therefrom.
11.9 Approve a contract with American Housino Corporation to sell Lots 47 & 48. Block
F. GREENWOOD PARK NO.2. for the total net sum of $25.002. and authorize
appropriate officials to execute same and any instruments related thereto as may be
reouired for closino.
11.10 Approve a work order amendment for enoineerino desion of the North Greenwood
Traffic Calmino Desion and Construction Administration Services (02-0055-EN) to Wade
Trim of Tampa. Florida in the amount of $37.249 and authorize the appropriate officials
to execute same.
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11.11 Approve the amendment of the Capital Improvement Prooram (CIP) to restructure
Stormwater Utilitv fundino bv reducino proiect budoets bv $28.930.09 of fee revenue.
$89.563 of 1999 bond proceeds. $243.936.50 of 2002 bond proceeds and $9.061.420 of
2004 bond proceeds for a total decrease of $9.423.849.59 and increasino proiect
budoets bv $1.565.328.09 of fee revenue. $89.563 of FY99 bond proceeds. $243.936.50
of 2002 bond proceeds. for a total increase of $1.898.827.59. resultino in a net budoet
decrease of $7.525.022. and the amendment to the Stormwater Maintenance (419-
02090) 2004 operatino budoet to increase the transfer of fee revenue to CIP proiects bv
$1.536.398 from the retained earninos of the Stormwater Utilitv Fund.
11.12 Approve the preliminary plat for "Edoewater T ownhomes". located on the
southeast corner of Union Street and Edoewater Drive. (A.K.A. 2095 Edoewater Drive),
11.13 Approve a contract with Clearwater Neiohborhood Housino Services. Inc.
("CNHS") to sell GREENWOOD PARK NO.2. Block D. Lot 37. a/k/a 1108 Enoman
Street for the total sum of $10.500. includino compliance with special oualifvino criteria.
and authorize appropriate officials to execute same and any instruments related thereto
as may be reouired for closino.
11.14 Approve chanoes to the New Construction chapter of the Desion Guidelines
relatino to the transition areas section and new reouirements for architectural stvles
within the Downtown Core.
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11.15 Recommend Pinellas County Administrator appoint Doua Williams to the St.
Petersbura-Clearwater International Airport Aircraft Noise Abatement Task Force. due to
resianation of Saundra L. Curry.
11.16 Appoint Manoi Haresh Shewa to the Library Board with the term expirina on
Auaust 31. 2008.
11.17 Appoint Christine Travis to the Beautification Committee with the term expirina on
Auaust 31.2008.
Purchasing
11.18 Woodward (skate park) ramps and rails by Huna Desians. installed.
Councilmember Hamilton moved to approve the Consent Agenda as submitted
and that the appropriate officials be authorized to execute same. The motion was duly
seconded and carried unanimously.
12. Other items on City Manager Reports
12.1 Adopt Resolution #04-22 authorizina the Marine & Aviation Department to act as
Proiect Manaaer for the Florida Boatina Improvement Proaram and authorize the
appropriate officials to execute same.
The Marine & Aviation Department wishes to apply for grant funds to design the
expansion of the recreational boating portion of the marina, leaving the commercial slips
where they are. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) offers a
program for funding the cost of engineering the construction of boating access facilities.
One of the requirements is that the Governing Body, the City Council in this instance,
authorize the Project Manager, the Marine & Aviation Department, authority to apply for
and administer the grant on their behalf.
The initial request will be for a grant to fund the preparation of a Master Plan,
estimated to cost between $100,000 and $150,000. Once the Master Plan is completed,
the next tier of the grant would be pursued to fund the actual construction of Marina
improvements, the cost of which will be determined by what is approved as the Master
Plan.
Councilmember Hamilton moved to approve authorizing the Marine & Aviation
Department to act as Project Manager for the Florida Boating Improvement Program.
The motion was duly seconded and carried unanimously.
Resolution #04-22 was presented and read by title only. Councilmember Jonson
moved to pass and adopt Resolution #04-22 and authorize the appropriate officials to
execute same. The motion was duly seconded and upon roll call, the vote was:
"Ayes": Hibbard, Hamilton, Jonson, Petersen, and Aungst.
"Nays": None.
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12.2 Adopt City of Clearwater Resolution #04-18 and accept City of Oldsmar Ordinance
#2004-02. which amends Ordinance #84-16 and chanaes the franchise percentaae of
aross receipts from the sale of aas paid to the City of Oldsmar bY Clearwater Gas. and
makes several administrative chanaes to the aareement and authorize the appropriate
officials to execute same.
The City of Clearwater Commission accepted a 30-year franchise agreement
effective September 1, 1984, which provided for a 4% franchise rate for the first 10
years, a 4.5% franchise rate for the second 10 years, and a 5% franchise rate for the
third 10 years.
On June 1, 2004, the City of Oldsmar Council approved Ordinance #2004-02,
which seeks to amend the current franchise agreement to reflect changes to the
percentage of gross receipts received by the City of Oldsmar from CGS.
The City of Oldsmar has requested that their franchise fee payments received
from gross receipts of the sale of gas be kept at 4.5% for the third 1 O-year period of the
agreement, instead of increasing to 5%.
Additionally, the new Oldsmar Ordinance makes the following administrative
clarifications to the agreement, which CGS (Clearwater Gas System) requested:
Franchise fee payments to the City of Oldsmar will be paid quarterly instead of monthly.
This has been CGS's actual practice.
CGS no longer will collect a surcharge for construction costs of the CGS system
in Oldsmar. CGS discontinued the surcharge in its Rate Case effective October 1, 1995,
and clarifies that the date of the franchise was September 1, 1984.
In response to a question, Clearwater Gas System Managing Director Chuck
Warrington said this change will be revenue neutral to the City.
Councilmember Petersen moved to accept City of Oldsmar Ordinance #2004-02,
which amends Ordinance #84-16 and changes the franchise percentage of gross
receipts from the sale of gas paid to the City of Oldsmar by Clearwater Gas, and makes
several administrative changes to our agreement. The motion was duly seconded and
carried unanimously.
Resolution #04-18 was presented and read by title only. Councilmember
Hibbard moved to pass and adopt Resolution #04-18 and authorize the appropriate
officials to execute same. The motion was duly seconded and upon roll call, the vote
was:
"Ayes": Hibbard, Hamilton, Jonson, Petersen, and Aungst.
"Nays": None.
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12.3 Adopt Resolution #04-23 providinq for the sale of not to exceed $15.5 million
Stormwater Revenue Bonds. Series 2004 and authorize the appropriate officials to
execute same.
A Stormwater rate study has been completed which proposes implementing the
previously approved 8% per year rate increase in FY (Fiscal Year) 2005 and FY 2006
and adopting annual rate increases of 3% per year for FY 2007 through FY 2009. These
rate increases are sufficient to provide for operations, capital projects, and debt service
on bonds issued during this time period.
The City identified a need for approximately $65.5 million in capital projects for
the stormwater system from 2004 through 2009, with bonds to be issued in 2004 for
projects costing approximately $13,164,580, in 2006 of approximately $7,223,302 and in
2008 of approximately $10,542,926. A total of $13,164,580 in projects will be financed
from the 2004 bond issue.
Ordinance #6378-99 was adopted on April 15,1999 and Ordinance #6931-02 was
adopted on July 18, 2002. Both ordinances authorize the issuance of Stormwater
Revenue Bonds by resolution. Resolution #02-41, adopted on November 21, 2002,
provides for the City to be reimbursed from bond proceeds for expenditures that
occurred on these projects prior to issuance of the bonds.
This resolution authorizes the competitive sale of not to exceed $15.5 million of
Stormwater Revenue Bonds, and authorizes the Finance Director and City Manager to
award the sale of the bonds to the best bidder. Only the amount of bonds needed to
fund $13,164,580 in construction costs will be issued.
Council member Hamilton moved to approve providing for the sale of not to
exceed $15.5 million Stormwater Revenue Bonds, Series 2004. The motion was duly
seconded and carried unanimously.
Resolution #04-23 was presented and read by title only. Councilmember Jonson
moved to pass and adopt Resolution #04-23 and authorize the appropriate officials to
execute same. The motion was duly seconded and upon roll call, the vote was:
"Ayes": Hibbard, Hamilton, Jonson, Petersen, and Aungst.
"Nays": None.
12.4 Approve Capital Improvement Proiect #315-92836. Siqn/Siqnal Shop Expansion. in
the amount of $240.000 for Fiscal Year 2004/05.
The project consists of the construction of a warehouse addition to the existing
sign/signal shop at the Public Works Complex on Arcturas Avenue that will double the
amount of storage for traffic operations equipment and material.
The project will provide out of the weather storage for expensive pavement
marking equipment such as the truck mounted thermoplastic striper, two Apollo
Thermoplastic stripers for parking lots, and the palletized raw thermoplastic material.
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The project will provide additional space for Public Services and Public Utilities by
. freeing up the space currently occupied by the aforesaid equipment.
This will bring all the field elements of Traffic Operations under one roof for better
operations and coordination. Work is to be done in-house by Building and Maintenance.
Council member Petersen moved to approve Capital Improvement Project #315-
92836, Sign/Signal Shop Expansion, in the amount of $240,000 for Fiscal Year 2004/05.
The motion was duly seconded and carried unanimously.
12.5 Item Pulled.
12.6 Approve amendments to the Election Code and pass Ordinance #7325-04 on first
readinQ.
The Charter has been amended, taking specific qualification criteria out of the
Charter in order to facilitate changes needed due to Florida Statutes and Pine lias County
Supervisor of Elections requirements. The Charter amendment also required that issues
removed be included in an ordinance; this ordinance meets that requirement. Staff
recommends increasing the filing fee from $50 to $100. This fee has not been increased
for at least 20 years and will cover administrative costs. The period between appointing
a treasurer and obtaining petition cards is recommended to be removed with the number
of petition cards remaining at 250. The qualifying period will be the first two full
workweeks in December.
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Councilmember Jonson moved to retain the $50 filing fee. The motion was duly
seconded.
Concern was expressed increasing the fee would deter some prospective
candidates from running for office. Discussion ensued and it was noted the fee has
been the same for 20+ years. It was felt the increase to $100 would better cover
associated costs and is not a difficult threshold for prospective candidates to reach.
Upon the vote being taken, Councilmember Jonson voted "Aye";
Councilmembers Hibbard, Hamilton, Petersen, and Mayor Aungst voted "Nay." Motion
failed.
Councilmember Hamilton moved to approve amendments to the Election Code
as submitted. The motion was duly seconded and carried unanimously.
Ordinance #7325-04 was presented for first reading and read by title only.
Councilmember Jonson moved to pass Ordinance #7325-04 on first reading. The
motion was duly seconded and upon roll call, the vote was:
"Ayes": Hibbard, Hamilton, Jonson, Petersen, and Aungst.
"Nays": None.
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12.7 IAFF Contract NeQotiations Update.
Human Resources Manager Allen Del Prete said no significant progress has
been made. On July 23,2004, the City declared an impasse on wages only, and has
narrowed its focus to facilitate the first year of the contract. The City's labor counsel is
communicating with union counsel regarding the list of Special Masters. No dates are
scheduled to resume negotiations. In response to a question, Mr. Del Prete said the list
of Special Masters includes information regarding background and previous experience.
13. City Attorney Reports - None.
14. City Manager Verbal Reports
14.1 Update re County Participation in Recreation Facility.
The City Manager reported feedback from County Administrator Steve Spratt
indicated no County support for an operating subsidy for the proposed facility but
indicated there may be annual grant opportunities.
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Parks and Recreation Director Kevin Dunbar said discussions with Pinellas
County and the City of Safety Harbor provided for their funding to be $1.05 million each
with an approximate $75,000-$85,000 for operating costs. The City would cover the final
$700,000 of the project, all cost overruns, project management as well as providing the
land worth $3.6 million. He said the City is looking for partners to come onboard to
make this project a reality. He said Safety Harbor has already budgeted the money.
The County is now saying they can only provide $700,000. Part of the discussion with
the County was the option of providing in-kind support instead of total cash.
In response to a question, Mr. Dunbar said without a partnership with the County,
Clearwater would renovate the existing site. Concern was expressed renovating would
not solve problems related to a lack of soccer fields. Mr. Dunbar said the master plan
indicates eight multi-purpose fields are needed, with four exclusively for soccer. He
anticipated problems in October through mid-November when recreational soccer and
football season overlap. He said the building needs to be replaced with a structure that
is ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliant. The press box needs to be elevated
and two elevators may be required. Fencing, landscaping, etc. are part of the project. In
response to a question, Mr. Dunbar said staff will discuss the design, screening of golf
balls, etc. with Chi Chi Rodriguez staff.
County Commissioner Karen See I reiterated the County's $700,000 offer. She
said obtaining an annual $450,000 Nike grant could be used to construct a sport soccer
field. She offered the services of the County's grant writer to partner with Clearwater to
apply for that grant. She encouraged the City to apply annually for part of the $2 million
in MSTUs (Municipal Service Taxing Units) collected from unincorporated areas. She
said the County also would offer in-kind services for clearing and grubbing, etc. She
hoped the County and City would continue to work together.
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Steve Heller, Pinellas Assembly Task Force member, said Nike's grant proYides
a full range of sport uses such as turf, lighting, equipment, etc. In response to questions,
Mr. Heller said the the total Nike grant is $5 million and the City's potential is $450,000.
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He said the grant is offered to all Nike clubs, with priority given to premiere clubs. He
. said a six-field complex would attract more marquee events.
Discussion ensued in regard to sports turf and Mr. Dunbar said this type of turf
requires less maintenance, no irrigation, and would reduce the budget. He did not know
the longevity of this type turf. In response to a question, Mr. Dunbar said the $450,000
will provide turf for more than one field.
Discussion ensued in regard to all parties involved continuing to work together
and reaching out to the community for help.
A question was raised if any of the Pinellas Assembly's recommendations have
been implemented. Commissioner See I said approximately 60%-70% of the
recommendations have been adopted by the Board of County Commissioners and the
Mayors' Council. She said at their meeting in October projects to be adopted will be
determined. In response to a question, County Commissioner See I believed the County
in-kind services she offered are in addition to the $700,000 proposed. This information
is to be confirmed with the County.
Concern was expressed in setting a precedent if Clearwater compromises to
receive less funds from one partner. Clarification was requested as to why the City is
not getting enough consideration for land they are bringing to the project.
14.2 Pinellas County Coalition for the Homeless request for fundinq.
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Assistant Housing Director Howie Carroll said the PCCH (Pinellas County
Coalition for the Homeless) seeks financial support from County HUD-funded
jurisdictions to fulfill its Federal- and State-designated role as Lead Agency for homeless
services throughout Pinellas County. It has become steadily more difficult for this all-
volunteer, non-profit, 501 (c)(3) organization to meet the Federal and State agency
expectations to be the local leader in developing a system to address and end
homelessness locally.
HUD (Housing & Urban Development) Department) funding for Supportive
Housing Projects for homeless persons is more than $2 million per year in Pinellas
County. For programs and services, 13 agencies in the County receive this funding,
which is awarded as a direct result of the consolidated application through PCCH as
Lead Agency.
Pinellas County and the cities of St. Petersburg, Clearwater, and Largo are
designated jurisdictions that receive other HUD funding which go PCCH, in part,
because their Consolidated Plans include the description of homeless services that is
written annually by PCCH, called the Continuum of Care (CoC). HUD emphasizes that
the development of a Continuum of Care be an inclusive process that is coordinated with
the community's larger effort of developing a HUD-required Consolidated Plan. These
jurisdictions also utilize the annual count of homeless persons conducted voluntarily by
PCCH member agencies as well as the Continuum of Care narrative in the annual
updates of their Consolidated Plans.
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President Bush and the United States Interagency Council on Homelessness
have issued a challenge to communities to end chronic homelessness by 2012. At this
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point, 117 cities have completed, or are creating a Ten Year Plan to End Chronic
Homelessness. HUD dollars and other federal funding for homelessness are being
linked to the progress that communities are making in achieving their Ten Year Plans.
Apparently, only the City of St. Petersburg has made a commitment to participate in this
effort, or to develop a plan of its own.
PCCH has completely outgrown its voluntary status, and now needs full time
professional staff filling the role of Executive Director. PCCH is seeking the financial
support of Pinellas County Government and the Cities of St. Petersburg, Clearwater, and
Largo, which receive HUD dollars as designated jurisdictions. Given the growing
challenges from HUD and from Florida's State Office on Homelessness, PCCH believes
that it is imperative to formalize the role of "Lead Agency" immediately, and begin to
build capacity to perform the many functions that a lead agency is expected to be
capable of fulfilling. PCCH cannot fulfill this leadership role without paid professional
staff to represent the Coalition, which has countywide representation, including staff from
Pinellas County and the City of St. Petersburg.
PCCH is requesting funding for 18 months, to coincide with the final report of the
consultant now in place to analyze homeless issues in Pinellas county. PCCH is
seeking $65,000 for 12 months from the County, and $32,500 for the remaining six
months from the cities of St. Petersburg, Clearwater, and Largo, for a total of $97,500.
This will support one professional staff person, either on salary or through contract, as
well as some telephone, Internet, operating and transportation costs, to function as the
Executive Director of the PCCH for 18 months.
.
As in-kind, the Coalition will provide office space with utilities, a computer, and
support. The Coalition currently devotes approximately $30,000.00 of State Grant-In-Aid
funds to a half-time office support staff person and a part-time contract manager. PCCH
has arranged for technical assistance through the Florida Coalition for the Homeless to
explore how other local Coalitions have funded their professional staff. PCCH expects
that the work of the County's consultant will clearly reveal the need for this funding.
Pinellas County's pro rata share of HUD funding for homeless services
($2,074,779) is based on the following jurisdiction percentages through HUD's formula:
Pinellas County - 52.44% ($1,088,208); St. Petersburg - 38.46% ($798,057);
Clearwater - 6.08% ($126,175); Largo - 3.02% ($62,339). This funding for homeless
services comes through PCCH as Lead Agency, as does other State funding such as
State Grant in Aid funds, Challenge Grant funds, and Housing Homeless Assistance
funds. PCCH performs functions similar to the community development departments of
these jurisdictions, but with one part-time contract manager. PCCH no longer can
operate effectively without a paid executive staff to oversee contract management and to
function as the County's visible representative for homeless services and issues.
.
The benefits of funding PCCH are multiple: 1) A paid executive director will work
with the County consultant and other City and County officials in their efforts to develop
coordinated plans for homeless services in Pinellas County; 2) That person will work
with the Executive Council of PCCH to develop the capacity within the Pinellas County
Coalition for the Homeless to strengthen the Lead Agency's role in the County; 3)
Pinellas County can join other cities, counties, and states in responding to the
President's challenge to end chronic homelessness in 10 years (now down to 8 years);
and 4) The Consolidated Plan process of each of the four jurisdictions (County, St.
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Petersburg, Clearwater and Largo) will be directly coordinated with homeless services
and efforts to end homelessness.
The timing of this proposal is crucial, if the existing expertise of PCCH is to be
incorporated into a renewed policy and funding environment for homeless services in
Pinellas County. PCCH is committed to preserving and enhancing the funding levels
that it has for homeless services in this County, while acknowledging that the PCCH
does not at this time have the internal capacity to perform all the functions of the Lead
Agency. PCCH build the capacity, and funding this proposal will accomplish that goal.
Discussion ensued in regard to having a lead agency to handle this issue.
County Commissioner Seel said this problem is a national issue. HUD will be allocating
additional funds to help local communities implement the 1 O-year plan. A deadline has
not been established.
In response to a question, Mr. Carroll said this is a one time funding request.
Councilmember Jonson moved to support Pinellas County Coalition for the
Homeless request for funding. The motion was duly seconded and carried
unanimously.
15. Council Discussion Items
15.1 Set Workshop for Enterprise Fund and CIP Budoets
Discussion ensued in regard to scheduling a worksession to discuss the
Enterprise Fund and Capital Improvement Program Budgets.
The Worksession was scheduled for August 24, 2004, at 9:00 a.m. in Council
Chambers.
15.2 Community Development Board Philosophv - Jonson
Discussion ensued regarding the philosophy behind the Community Development
Code regarding the following flexible development standards 1) The proposed
development of the land will be in harmony with the scale, bulk, coverage, density, and
character of adjacent properties in which it is located, and 2) The proposed development
is consistent with the community character of the immediate vicinity of the parcel
proposed for development and decisions made by the Community Development Board.
Discussion ensued regarding whether those working with the code have a full
understanding of its complexity and philosophy. The majority felt staff and board
members and many developers do understand the code.
Discussion ensued in regard to transition zones and it was indicated these areas
are most sensitive with respect to development and may need to be looked at.
16. Other Council Action
Vice-Mavor Hibbard wished farewell to Mike Meidel, Clearwater Regional
Chamber of Commerce Executive Director, and good luck in his new job. Vice-Mayor
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Hibbard attended the Beach Business Forum; met with Dr. Hale of Senior Services
Center; attended the ribbon cutting for Joffrey's at the Main Library; and visited Admiral
Everett Tucker with the Coast Guard, who said they are considering bringing the
Canadian games to Clearwater.
Councilmember Petersen attended Carousel by the Clearwater City Players at
Ruth Eckerd Hall; went to Philadelphia and toured the Phillies new stadium; and
attended the Sister City Advisory Committee meeting. Middle school students are
visiting next week and Clearwater needs to get ready for those arriving in April. She met
with Dr. Hale of the Senior Services Center and the grand opening of Joffrey's. She
attended the Teachers' Appreciation Breakfast, and thanked teachers for their good
work. She gave kudos to Economic Development Coordinator Anne Fogarty and
Economic Development and Housing Acting Director Geri Campos for their hard work in
producing the newsletter that won the FFEA (Florida Festivals & Events Association)
Red Baron Media Award for best newsletter, Main Street Update.
Councilmembers Petersen and Hibbard reminded drivers to be careful as school
has started.
Councilmember Jonson expressed his appreciation to the Clearwater Regional
Chamber of Commerce and Office Depot for the Teachers' Appreciation Breakfast. He
attended the FLC (Florida League of Cities) Committee meeting.
Councilmember Jonson questioned if there was any support for the proposed
Florida League of Cities Miami-Dade resolution. There was none.
Councilmember Jonson presented the City Clerk with an advanced package for
advocacy meetings regarding transportation from the FLC. He said the Suncoast
League of Municipalities now meets every other month on a Saturday; Congressman Bill
Young has been invited to next meeting on September 19, 2004 at Indian Rocks Beach.
He reported the Tampa Creative Bay Group will meet at the Main Library on August 19,
2004. He congratulated his son, Jared, for graduating from Ocala Fire Academy.
Councilmember Hamilton said he is taking his son to college next week. He
wished his wife a happy birthday.
Mavor AunQst reported the next Council Meeting is August 16, 2004, due to the
FLC Conference. Politics in the Park is scheduled for August 10, 2004.
17. Adiourn
The meeting adjourned at 9: 16 p.m.
Attest:
r~~~. ~<.
Cit lerk
Council 2004-08-05
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