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03/27/1990 - Town Meeting TOWN MEETING March 27, 1990 The City Commission of the City of Clearwater met at the Morningside Recreation Center with the following members present: Rita Garvey Mayor/Commissioner Richard Fitzgerald Vice-Mayor/Commissioner Lee Regulski Commissioner William Nunamaker Commissioner Also present were: Sue Berfield Commissioner elect Cynthia E. Goudeau City Clerk The meeting was called to order at 7:32 p.m. and the following issues were raised: Shirley McCullen questioned why the director of the Free Clinic was dismissed. Commissioner Regulski indicated that the Free Clinic has nothing to do with the City, County or Federal Government. He is president of this organization and will answer that question privately. Herb Leonhardt, Clearwater Beach resident, indicated they have formed a committee to study parking and non-conformity problems on the beach. He stated Joe Fletcher, Jr. will chair this group and they would like the City Commission's cooperation. In response to questions, it was indicated that Dr. Rosenow is this committee's representative on the Clearwater Beach Task Force. Luciano Mendes, also a Clearwater Beach resident, stated that zoning and grandfathering is not clear in the code and requested that the task force address this issue as there needs to be a clear understanding regarding this language. Syd Snair questioned what the City's plans were for the Campbell property. It was indicated there were no specific plans at this time. Mr. Snair requested that this property be cleared as it is an eyesore. Tom Basnight complained regarding free newspapers being distributed. He requested an ordinance be passed that required subscriptions before papers could be left on people's lawns. Linda Goldman questioned whether or not the City of Clearwater is planning a program such as Largo's "Adopt a Mile" program, in which, a mile of road is adopted by an organization and maintained. Matina Wagner, Recycling Coordinator explained the programs the City has in place. Dorrie Larbor expressed concerns that citizens were not aware that the City of Clearwater had ceased residential street sweeping. Eleanor Craig requested direction regarding how to have storm drains cleaned. She was directed to call the City and provide the locations of concern. John Ware spoke regarding the proposed High-n-Dry Boat Storage Facility and questioned why the City was considering leasing this property without a referendum. It was explained that there is a difference of opinion on the Commission regarding whether or not leasing this property through a license agreement violates the intent of the charter. It was stated that no decision has been made and the Commission has requested additional information from staff. In response to a question from Alice Jelinick, it was indicated that Ad Valorem taxes would have to be paid on the building for the boat storage facility if the City leased the property. Mr. Snair raised a question as to why the boat storage proposal was not put out to bid. It was indicated that this is a project which has been presented to the Commission and the bidding question has been raised. C. D. Rayborn, representing the Edgewater Drive Association, spoke in opposition to the High-n-Dry Boat Storage proposal. He stated it would create confusion and further aggravate an already existing parking problem. Vince Arnet stated he has seen some increase in Code Enforcement and questioned whether or not there are any additional new procedures being considered. It was indicated that City Staff is looking to beef up its Code Enforcement effort and in particular, to close down vacant buildings that have become problems, in particular, in connection with drug trafficing. Tom Basnight questioned how the Commission felt about the sale of the gas division. It was indicated that Commission is waiting for the results of studies that are currently being done. Mr. Snair questioned whether or not it was known if the gas division is profitable. It was indicated this is one of the issues being addressed. It was indicated that the City of Clearwater has not taken a profit from the gas division rather it has been an administrative fee which has been charged. C. D. Rayborn requested consideration of his bridge idea which would connect the mainland to Sand Key as well as Clearwater Beach Island. It was indicated that unless the City replaces the bridge in the approximate existing location, there would be no state of federal assistance in funding. Syd Snair questioned the City's enforcement of the current water restrictions. It was explained that there is an enforcement process in place. Mr. Snair requested that violators be taken to the Code Enforcement Board. Concerns were expressed regarding police officers having to spend time to enforce water restrictions. John Cavanaugh expressed concerns that the police department is not able to provide reports regarding criminal activities in neighborhoods due to the expense of these reports. It was stated this would be investigated. Dorrie Larbor requested that the City beautify the fence around the City cemetary. Herb Leonhardt expressed concerns regarding the illegal use of restaurant licenses for alcoholic beverage establishments. It was indicated that the City is addressing these problems as best it can. The meeting adjourned at 8:33 p.m.