10/16/2014 - Topic Downtown Issues WORK SESSION MINUTES
TOPIC DOWNTOWN ISSUES
CITY OF CLEARWATER
October 16, 2014
Present: Bill Jonson Councilmember
Jay Polglaze Councilmember
Also present: Anne Fogarty France Downtown Manager
Nicole Sprague ORLS Coordinator
The work session was called to order at 1:06 p.m. at City Hall.
Discussion ensued regarding the intentions of the subcommittee and was stated that it
was for information sharing on the history and concerns of the downtown community. It was
stated that the topics discussed in these work sessions need to be brought before Council for
the benefit of a full discussion.
After several studies and reports over a decade, there are still concerns from the
business community. There have been compromises and small incremental steps forward ,
however, the potential investors are not yet satisfied. The Urban Land Institute (ULI)
recommendations have been embraced by the downtown, investment, and retail communities.
It was stated that issues regarding signage, lighting, way-finding, land use problems, etc. have
been an impediment to the advancement of economic development in the downtown area.
Discussion ensued regarding properties that are vacant longer than six months.
Discussion ensued regarding the City's code. It was stated that the sign code was
highly restrictive and national chain companies would have a hard time conforming their signs to
the City's code. Parking requirement concessions were granted on Clearwater beach to allow
for businesses to open and the same flexibility should be applied to downtown. A concern was
expressed regarding the lack of a marquee at the Capitol Theatre. It was stated that changes
may be implemented by designating downtown as a character district. It was stated that a
request would be made to Planning and Development to review all denied new business
permits. This would allow businesses to create their own unique storefront. Businesses want
every tool to promote themselves; they don't want to look the same as the next door neighbor.
Different storefronts create an intense environment. It was stated that businesses could apply
for a comprehensive sign program to allow for an alternative to the minimum standards,
however, it still has maximum restrictions. It was stated that redoing the code is a lengthy
process. A broad based code was suggested as an alternative that would allow for an engaging
and embracing climate.
Discussion ensued regarding the need for anchor tenants in the downtown area. It was
stated that the Countryside area has success due to its contiguous connection to major
thoroughfares. Countryside has several anchor stores along with unique retail shops. It was
said that no matter how much compromise the City has made in the past for development, the
City is still viewed as not being business friendly. Our incentive program is for smaller
businesses which don't tend to stay open more than a year; a business coming in with a
substantial investment would be here to stay.
Discussion ensued regarding potential action items that would engage all stakeholders.
Councilmember Polglaze said he would speak to the City Attorney regarding the limitations this
subcommittee has on direction suggestions.
The work session adjourned at 3:15 p.m.