01/19/2016Tuesday, January 19, 2016
9:00 AM
City of Clearwater
City Hall
112 S. Osceola Avenue
Clearwater, FL 33756
City Hall Chambers
Community Redevelopment Agency
Meeting Agenda
January 19, 2016Community Redevelopment Agency Meeting Agenda
1. Call To Order
2. Approval of Minutes
2.1 Approve the minutes of the December 14, 2015 CRA meeting as submitted in
written summation by the City Clerk.
3. Citizens to be Heard Regarding Items Not on the Agenda
4. New Business Items
4.1 Approve the Revised Façade Improvement Program Guidelines to provide
design assistance of $4,000 and two financial incentives to be matched
dollar-for-dollar by applicant (1) up to $10,000 in grant funding and (2) up to
$25,000 of zero interest loan funds per application.
4.2 Amend the Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) Rules to provide the
option to appoint a CRA Executive Director who does not also serve as an
Assistant City Manager.
4.3 Appoint Economic Development and Housing Director Geraldine
Campos-Lopez as the Interim Executive Director of the Community
Redevelopment Agency.
5. Adjourn
Page 2 City of Clearwater Printed on 1/15/2016
Cover Memo
City of Clearwater City Hall
112 S. Osceola Avenue
Clearwater, FL 33756
File Number: ID#16-2049
Agenda Date: 1/19/2016 Status: Agenda ReadyVersion: 1
File Type: MinutesIn Control: Community Redevelopment Agency
Agenda Number: 2.1
SUBJECT/RECOMMENDATION:
Approve the minutes of the December 14, 2015 CRA meeting as submitted in written
summation by the City Clerk.
SUMMARY:
APPROPRIATION CODE AND AMOUNT:
USE OF RESERVE FUNDS:
Page 1 City of Clearwater Printed on 1/15/2016
Community Redevelopment Agency Meeting Minutes December 14, 2015
City of Clearwater
City Hall
112 S. Osceola Avenue
Clearwater, FL 33756
Meeting Minutes
Monday, December 14, 2015
1:00 PM
City Hall Chambers
Community Redevelopment Agency
Page 1 City of Clearwater Draft
Community Redevelopment Agency Meeting Minutes December 14, 2015
Roll Call
Present 5 - Chair George N. Cretekos, Trustee Doreen Hock-DiPolito, Trustee
Jay E. Polglaze, Trustee Bill Jonson, and Trustee Hoyt Hamilton Also Present – William B. Horne – City Manager, Jill Silverboard – Assistant City
Manager, Rod Irwin – CRA Executive Director/Assistant City
Manager, Pamela K. Akin – City Attorney, Rosemarie Call – City
Clerk, Nicole Sprague – Official Records and Legislative Services
Coordinator
To provide continui ty for research, items are listed in agenda order although not
ne cessarily discussed in that order.
Unapproved 1. Call To Order – Chair Cretekos
The meeting was called to order at 1:04 p.m. 2. Approval of Minutes
2.1 Approve the minutes of the November 2, 2015 Special CRA Meeting and the
November 30, 2015 CRA meeting as submitted in written summation by the City
Clerk.
Trustee Hock-DiPolito moved to approve the minutes of the
November 2, 2015 Special CRA meeting as submitted in written
summation by the City Clerk. The motion was duly seconded and
carried unanimously.
Trustee Jonson moved to approve the minutes of the November 30,
2015 CRA meeting as submitted in written summation by the City
Clerk. The motion was duly seconded and carried unanimously.
3. Citizens to be Heard Regarding Items Not on the Agenda – None. 4. New Business Items
4.1 Amend the Interlocal Agreement between the Community Redevelopment Agency
(CRA) and the City of Clearwater to allow funds to be utilized by the Clearwater Main
Library for pre-venture, startup and small business programs and services and
authorize the appropriate officials to execute same.
Page 2 City of Clearwater Draft
Community Redevelopment Agency Meeting Minutes December 14, 2015
This amendment will match the funding to the intent as described in Section 2
of the agreement. As currently written, the funding may only be used for
STEM-related activities at the maker spaces. The purpose outlined in Section
2 also includes small business start up, entrepreneurship, job seeking and
business marketing support. This amendment mirrors the item just reviewed
by the CRA. No additional funding is requested.
Trustee Jonson moved to Amend the Interlocal Agreement between
the Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) and the City of
Clearwater to allow funds to be utilized by the Clearwater Main
Library for pre-venture, startup and small business programs and
services and authorize the appropriate officials to execute same.
The motion was duly seconded and carried unanimously.
4.2 Approve Cleveland Street District Facade Improvement Program loan documents
(Financial Incentive Contract, mortgage and note) in the amount of $25,000 for the
property located at 24-28 N. Ft. Harrison Avenue and authorize the appropriate
officials to execute same.
As background, on September 4, 2007, the CRA approved the Cleveland
Street District Facade Improvement Program. The Façade Improvement
Program creates incentives for property owners and businesses on Cleveland
Street to improve the appearance of their businesses and properties. It was
hoped that this program would foster and encourage investment and pride in
building facades along Cleveland Street and add to the Café District
envisioned in a revitalized downtown Clearwater. While staff widely marketed
this program after CRA adoption, there was little interest in the program during
the recession. However, property owners are now interested in making
investments to their buildings.
Application for 24 N. Ft. Harrison Avenue
Shannon Seymour, Managing Member of 24 N. Ft. Harrison LLC, property
owner at 24-28 N. Ft. Harrison Avenue, applied for a Cleveland Street Facade
Improvement Program Financial Incentive. As part of the application process,
the property owner provided an itemized list of eligible facade improvements
totaling $70,563. The proposed timeframe for completion of the exterior is
spring of 2016.
The program matches improvements dollar-for-dollar up to $35,000. The CRA
Executive Director approved a $10,000 grant. The balance of $25,000 will be
in the form of a loan at 0% with zero payments, to be repaid upon sale of the
property, default of the loan, or at the loan maturity date of fifteen years from
date of closing.
Page 3 City of Clearwater Draft
Community Redevelopment Agency Meeting Minutes December 14, 2015
As described in the Facade Program Guidelines, the loan will be secured by a
mortgage and note on the property to be repaid upon sale of the property.
Once the eligible improvements are completed and the requisite mortgage and
note are executed, the loan will be disbursed as a reimbursement of costs
incurred by the property owner. As a stipulation of the loan, the property owner
will maintain the facade improvements as approved, in good condition, for a
period of five years from completion.
The proposed improvements to 24 N. Ft. Harrison meet the Downtown Design
Guidelines and overall CRA objectives. Staff recommends approval of the loan
documents.
In response to a question, Downtown Manager Anne Fogarty France said
the $25,000-loan will be matched by the property owner/applicant for the
façade improvements. The loan amount will be deducted from the
$197,000-balance in the Façade Improvements budget line item.
Trustee Hock-DiPolito moved to approve Cleveland Street District
Facade Improvement Program loan documents (Financial Incentive
Contract, mortgage and note) in the amount of $25,000 for the
property located at 24-28 N. Ft. Harrison Avenue and authorize the
appropriate officials to execute same. The motion was duly
seconded and carried unanimously.
4.3 Request that the U.S. Postal Service use the Historic Surplus Property Program to
enable the sale of the Cleveland Street Post Office to the CRA for adaptive reuse and
adopt Resolution 15-04.
The Cleveland Street Post Office opened in 1933 and was placed on the
National Register of Historic Places in 1981.
Adaptive reuse of the property would promote historical awareness, preserve
the historic building, and provide for public access to a much larger audience
than the current use. The CRA desires to implement adaptive reuse of the Post
Office and begin a conversation on the relocation of the Post Office to a more
suitable, mission-oriented location that would better service its retail and
delivery operations. Additionally, the Cleveland Street Post Office lies in the
entry to Downtown Clearwater and would serve as a visual marker to the
downtown, as recommended in the Urban Land Institute report.
One of the recommendations published in a report to Congress by the Advisory
Page 4 City of Clearwater Draft
Community Redevelopment Agency Meeting Minutes December 14, 2015
Council on Historic Preservation in 2014 specifically states that “the USPS
should consider the Historic Surplus Property Program for select historic
properties where protection of the property is paramount and a state or local
government is interested in acquiring the property”
In response to questions, the City Attorney said the resolution before the
CRA would initiate the communication process with the USPS. CRA
Executive Director Rod Irwin said the site could be purchased in a similar
manner as the Economy Inn, which involved a loan from the Central
Insurance Fund, or by reallocating the planned expenditures for capital
projects. Until a purchase price is known, staff cannot determine how to fund
the property acquisition. If a loan from the Central Insurance Fund is
pursued, the anticipated payback period would be five years. Mr. Irwin
said staff tries not to go below $1 million a year in the redevelopment
fund as a benchmark. The City Manager said staff will provide the
Trustees with several options to consider; the Trustees will choose the
option to cover the property acquisition. The resolution does not focus
on cost; staff can provide a more detailed analysis on how to fund the
acquisition.
In response to questions, the City Clerk said the USPS has not
expressed an interest in surplussing the site to staff. Initial research by
the City's federal lobbyists indicate that there was no example of a
municipality requesting the USPS to surplus a historic site for municipal
purchase. Since the site is not surplussed, there is a concern that the
purchase price would be full market value or higher, subject to the
number of interested bidders.
Trustee Hock-DiPolito moved to request that the U.S. Postal
Service use the Historic Surplus Property Program to enable the
sale of the Cleveland Street Post Office to the CRA for adaptive
reuse. The motion was duly seconded.
It was suggested that the resolution include language on the relocation
and retention of a post office facility in Downtown Clearwater.
Discussion ensued with comments made that adaptive reuse is a
structured program utilized throughout the country and requires the
building's architecture be preserved. Support was expressed to pursue to
research alternative uses of the building. Concerns were expressed that the
request to surplus the post office site will lead to eliminating a post office in
downtown.
Trustee Jonson moved to amend the resolution to include a new
Section 1 that reads, "The CRA wishes to implement potential Page 5 City of Clearwater Draft
Community Redevelopment Agency Meeting Minutes December 14, 2015
adaptive reuse of the Post Office and begin a conversation on the
relocation of the Post Office to a more suitable, mission-oriented
location that would better service its retail and delivery
operations," and renumber the others sections accordingly. The
motion was duly seconded.
Ayes: 1 - Trustee Jonson
Nays: 4 - Chair Cretekos, Trustee Hock-DiPolito, Trustee Polglaze and
Trustee Hamilton
Motion failed.
One individual supported the post office site be repurposed as a
restaurant or entertainment venue that would be an additional anchor
for Downtown.
Discussion ensued with support expressed to pursue asking the USPS
to surplus the site. Concerns were expressed with closing the post office for
city purchase at this point in time.
Upon the vote being taken: Ayes:3 - Trustee Hock-DiPolito, Trustee Polglaze and Trustee Hamilton
Nays: 2 - Chair Cretekos and Trustee Jonson
Motion carried.
Resolution 15-04 was presented and read by title only. Trustee
Hamilton moved to adopt Resolution 15-04. The motion was duly
seconded and upon roll call, the vote was:
Ayes: 3 - Trustee Hock-DiPolito, Trustee Polglaze and Trustee Hamilton
Nays: 2 - Chair Cretekos and Trustee Jonson
Motion carried.
5. Trustee Discussion Items
5.1 Winter’s Miracle event review comments - Councilmember Jonson
Trustee Jonson provided pictures of the Winter's Miracle event. The
event was a very effective street festival. The City can attract a bigger
crowd when the event is an organized street festival and involves
children.
Page 6 City of Clearwater Draft
Community Redevelopment Agency Meeting Minutes December 14, 2015
In response to a question, Downtown Manager Anne Fogarty France said staff
can post event pictures on the City's Flickr and Instagram sites.
6. Adjourn
The meeting adjourned at 1:50 p.m.
Chair
Community Redevelopment Agency
Attest
City Clerk
Page 7 City of Clearwater Draft
Cover Memo
City of Clearwater City Hall
112 S. Osceola Avenue
Clearwater, FL 33756
File Number: ID#15-2038
Agenda Date: 1/19/2016 Status: Agenda ReadyVersion: 1
File Type: Action ItemIn Control: Community Redevelopment Agency
Agenda Number: 4.1
SUBJECT/RECOMMENDATION:
Approve the Revised Façade Improvement Program Guidelines to provide design assistance
of $4,000 and two financial incentives to be matched dollar-for-dollar by applicant (1) up to
$10,000 in grant funding and (2) up to $25,000 of zero interest loan funds per application.
SUMMARY
On September 4, 2007, the CRA approved the Cleveland Street District Façade Improvement
Program. The Façade Improvement Program creates incentives for property owners and
businesses on Cleveland Street to improve the appearance of their businesses and
properties. It was hoped that this program would foster and encourage investment and pride
in building facades along Cleveland Street and add to the Café District envisioned in a
revitalized downtown Clearwater. While staff widely marketed this program after CRA
adoption, there was little interest in the program during the recession. However, property
owners are now interested in making investments to their buildings. Staff wants to encourage
more program use and be responsive to the increased interest.
In summary, the façade program matches dollar-for-dollar, the improvements made by the
property owner or tenant. All funds will be used to further the goals of the Café District
concept and must be applied to improvements that: (a) effect immediate improvement to the
storefront area of the building including signage, lighting, entryways, windows and other
cosmetic or structural work associated with the first floor where customers interact directly with
the building, (b) are in concert with first floor façade improvements as described in (a) above
but that also may extend vertically to the upper areas of the façade. Isolated building
improvements that are not directly connected to improvements at the street level façade are
not allowed. All funds to be disbursed by the CRA on a reimbursement basis upon completion
of the improvements and final inspections needed to satisfy permit requirements.
On November 30, 2015, the CRA Board put the program on hold in order for staff to evaluate
and update the program parameters and ensure consistency with current plans and objectives
for CRA Board review and approval.
The following program issues have been identified:
·Architect’s design fees were set at the 2007 rate and need to be updated.
·A new Request for Information is necessary to update the Architects List for the
Design Services portion of the program.
Page 1 City of Clearwater Printed on 1/15/2016
File Number: ID#15-2038
·The timeframe for approval of loans do not take into consideration the CRA monthly
meeting schedule.
·The loan repayment terms need clarification in the guidelines and application.
·There is no schedule to allow for updates to the program.
Staff recommends the following updates:
·Set architects fees to reflect a flat rate of $4,000 per address.
·Solicit new architects list.
·Clarify the approval process as follows. If the applicant is requesting a loan, the item
will be brought to the next available CRA meeting and the CRA Executive Director will
provide a Notice to Proceed or denial within fifteen days of CRA Board approval.
·Set repayment terms for loans: an interest rate of zero (0.00%) repayable in fifteen
years, upon sale of the property, or upon default according to the Mortgage and Note.
·Review program parameters in three years.
Page 2 City of Clearwater Printed on 1/15/2016
1
CITY OF CLEARWATER
COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY
CLEVELAND STREET DISTRICT
FAÇADE IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM GUIDELINES
REVISED JANUARY 2016
2
FAÇADE IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM GUIDELINES
THANK YOU FOR INVESTING IN DOWNTOWN; WE LOOK FORWARD TO WORKING WITH YOU.
LET OUR PROJECT ADVISORS HELP YOU OBTAIN ALL NECESSARY APPROVALS BEFORE BEGINNING WORK.
Through the Façade Improvement Program, the City of Clearwater Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) seeks to help you improve
the attractiveness of your buildings and the overall attractiveness of the Downtown Clearwater business district. If your building or business is
located on Cleveland Street between Osceola and Myrtle avenues and two blocks north and south from Drew to Pierce streets, the CRA
wants to work with you to create an attractive and unique downtown business district through our Façade Improvement Program. The
Façade Improvement Program has two separate components: Façade Design Services and the Financial Assistance Program. Together
these will help you design a new, fresh and appealing look for your building that adheres to the Downtown Design Guidelines and the Café
District concepts while also helping you pay for the actual construction of the work.
These easy to follow guidelines will help you understand exactly how to access $4,000.00 of design assistance per address from local architects
and up to $10,000 of grant and $25,000 of loan1 funds from the CRA.
Program guidelines were updated in January of 2016. The CRA Board will review program parameters in December 2018.
1 At the discretion of the CRA, higher levels of funding may be available as loans, to be repaid in fifteen (15) years, upon sale of the property, or
upon a default according to the Mortgage and Note.
3
FACADE DESIGN SERVICES
Intent
With the completion of the 2003 City of Clearwater Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) Downtown Redevelopment Plan,
the CRA determined that it is important to actively work to reinvigorate the downtown area with direct investment and programs to
encourage private investment. In 2006, the Downtown CRA completed a Façade Design Analysis Study that recommended
undertaking façade improvement activities by working with merchants and property owners to reposition the area of Cleveland
Street between Osceola and Myrtle Avenues to become a ‘Café District’ (also known as Cleveland Street District).
Successful implementation of this redevelopment effort requires the CRA to provide some initial technical assistance to property
owners and merchants to illustrate the appropriate types of design for the corridor.
The Façade Design Services program was created in 2007 and updated in January 2016 as it is intended to give Cleveland Street
property owners professional guidance for how to improve the most prominent facades of their buildings. The CRA is hopeful that
this type of assistance will result in capital improvements, but subsequent construction is not a requirement of receiving assistance.
However, it is strongly encouraged that property owners proceed with the illustrated façade improvements.
Eligibility
Façade Design Services are available to business and property owners within the designated area (Exhibit A) that have Cleveland
Street-facing properties. Governmental entities are not eligible, nor will grants or loans be considered for prohibited uses in the
Downtown District. Only one application will be considered per address. Business owners must provide a notarized letter of the
property owner’s consent to participate in this program.
Program
Facade Design Services will be provided to select Property Owners through contracts that the CRA has with architectural design
firms. The Architect will provide selected Property Owners (Owner) with the following services:
Scope of Services
1. Consultation(s) with the Owner to discuss needs, desires, and possible budget. City staff to be present at meeting.
2
2. Photograph existing building.
3. Provide either 2D Photoshop or hand-drawn concept of building street elevation showing suggested changes, preliminary
colors, and possible signage.
2 All projects will have a minimum of two, one-hour consultations.
4
Cost of Services
Architectural services will be paid by the CRA as a flat fee of $4,000.00
Exclusions
The Architect’s contract will be confined to street elevation and is the Architect’s suggestion considering building’s exterior
character, Owner's desire and Downtown Design Guidelines and the surrounding environment. If the Owner's desire is unrealistic
or in conflict with the Design Guidelines, the Architect will consider the Downtown Design Guidelines first. Though the Architect
will endeavor to be sensitive to budget, the Architect specifically excludes any representation that they have investigated the
building for any and all issues related to structural soundness, code compliance of existing structure, environmental issues and/or
real property title and encroachment problems or any other issues not readily discernible from casual view of street elevation.
The Architect will endeavor to provide service in timely fashion but it will be provided as schedule allows (30 days +/-) unless the
Architect notes otherwise.
Additional Services
If a true rendering or photorealistic drawing, or other technical assistance is desired, the Architect will provide such services for
additional negotiated fee at Owner’s expense.
The Architect will negotiate directly with the Owner if they wish additional Architectural Services to translate concept into
construction drawings.
Selected Property Owners are required to provide the Architect with the following items in order to facilitate their work and to assure
a more usable design:
Existing floor plan(s)
Any historical photos of the structure
Budget for improvements
Images of architectural styles or features that the Owner likes or believes is appropriate for the structure
Process
Qualified applicants must schedule an appointment with the CRA Representative prior to preparing an application for submittal.
The CRA Representative’s office is located on the first floor of City Hall at 112 South Osceola Avenue, Clearwater, Florida 33756.
Appointments may be made by calling (727)562-4044. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis and Facade Design Services
will be awarded on a first-come, first-served basis until funds allocated to this program are expended for the fiscal year.
5
Within ten (10) business days of application submittal, the CRA Representative will review the application for completeness. A post-
application submittal conference will be held with the Applicant to discuss any deficiencies or issues with the application. At this
time, the CRA Representative may request that the Applicant provide additional information.
Within ten (10) days of receiving the completed application, the CRA Representative will review the application against the review
criteria and prepare a recommendation for the CRA Executive Director. Applicants will also be sent a copy of the
recommendation.
The CRA Executive Director will determine whether or not the application is approved or denied with or without conditions.
The Applicant will be notified in writing of the CRA Executive Director’s decision, including a Notice to Proceed or denial
within fifteen (15) business days of application submittal. If the applicant is requesting a loan, the item will be brought to the
next available CRA meeting. The CRA Executive Director will provide a Notice to Proceed or denial within fifteen (15) days of
CRA Board approval.
6
Selection Criteria
The CRA Representative will review the completed application with respect for the review criteria and will make a recommendation
to the CRA Executive Director.
Review Criteria Scoring System
Façade Design Services
CRITERIA POINTS
Location/Visibility 50 points total
Redesign is intended to contribute
significantly to the Café District3
25
Strategic location of property in
facilitating the Café District
Concept
10
Significant Architecturally to
Downtown
15
Potential Aesthetic Improvement 50 points total
Current compatibility of existing
structure to the surrounding
structures/styles
Poor 25
Fair 15
Good 5
Current condition or appearance
of facade
Poor 25
Fair 15
Good 5
100 points possible
3 Significant contributions to desired environment include restaurants with outdoor seating, neighborhood retail and lifestyle business.
7
Applications that score below 60 points will be recommended for denial. Applicants are advised that grant funds are provided at
the sole discretion of the CRA Executive Director and the findings stated in the recommendation do not create an entitlement to
funding.
Available Assistance
The CRA will set the amount of assistance available for the fiscal year in its Annual Budget. The maximum grant contribution per
application is set at $4,000.00 per address. The CRA may raise or lower this amount at any time upon a majority vote of its members.
Expiration of Facade Design Services
Applicants must meet with the Architect within sixty (60) days from the date that the CRA Executive Director approves the Facade
Design Services request or the award will expire. Extensions may be granted by the CRA Executive Director under extenuating
circumstances.
Application
1. Completed application form.
2. Photographs of the existing building and the proposed project area.
8
FINANCIAL INCENTIVE PROGRAM
Intent
With the completion of the 2003 City of Clearwater Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) Downtown Redevelopment Plan,
the CRA determined that it is important to actively work to reinvigorate the downtown area with direct investment and programs to
encourage private investment. In 2006, the Downtown CRA completed a Façade Design Analysis Study that recommended
undertaking façade improvement activities by working with merchants and property owners to reposition the area of Cleveland
Street between Osceola and Myrtle avenues to become a ‘Café District’.
Successful implementation of this redevelopment effort requires the CRA to provide some initial financial assistance to property
owners and merchants to undertake professionally designed building improvements that will fit within the goals of the program and
enhance the corridor.
The Financial Incentive Program was created in 2007 and is being updated in January 2016 as it is designed to provide financial
incentives to the property owner that has participated in the CRA Façade Design Services program or will be providing a
comprehensive Façade Improvement Program application. The CRA is aware that façade improvements can be a costly
investment. In order to reduce the cost to property owners, the CRA has allocated annual funding to offset some of the
construction costs of façade improvements.
Eligibility
The Financial Incentive Program is available to all property owners within the designated area (Exhibit A). Area is described as
Cleveland Street between Myrtle and Osceola Avenues and two blocks north and south from Drew to Pierce Streets. Governmental
entities are not eligible, nor will grants or loans be considered for prohibited uses in the Downtown District. Only one application will
be considered per address.
Program
The Financial Incentive Program will be provided to targeted Property Owners and will be secured by by a mortgage against the
property. Grants may be awarded up to $10,000 and loans may be provided for any amounts between $10,001 and $35,000.
Loans will be made at an interest rate of zero (0.00%) interest rate repayable in fifteen (15) years, upon sale of the property, or upon a
default according to the Mortgage and Note..
Financial Incentives will be available to property owners for improvements to their building facades that further the goal of creating
a Café District. Any planned improvements that do not, in the judgment of the CRA, further the Café District concept will be
deemed ineligible.
9
Funds will be available to property owners and must be matched on a $1:$1 (dollar-for-dollar) basis by the applicant or property
owner for improvements that correspond with the furtherance of the Café District concept. The improvements must effect
immediate improvement to the storefront area of the building (i.e., signage, lighting, entryways, windows and other cosmetic or
structural work associated with the first floor where customers interact directly with the building) or (2) be in concert with first floor
façade improvements as described in (1) above but that may extend vertically to the upper areas of the façade. Isolated building
improvements that are not directly connected to improvements at the street level façade may not be allowed.
Process
Qualified applicants must schedule an appointment with the CRA Representative prior to preparing an application for submittal.
The CRA Representative’s office is located on the first floor of City Hall at 112 South Osceola Avenue, Clearwater, Florida 33756.
Appointments may be made by calling (727) 562-4044. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis and design assistance will
be awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.
Within ten (10) business days of application submittal, the CRA Representative will review the application for completeness. A post-
application submittal conference will be held with the Applicant to discuss any deficiencies or issues with the application. At this
time, the CRA Representative may request that the Applicant provide additional information.
Within ten (10) days of receiving the completed application, the CRA Representative will review the application against the review
criteria and prepare a recommendation for the CRA Executive Director. Applicants will also be sent a copy of the
recommendation.
The CRA Executive Director will determine whether or not the application is approved or denied with or without conditions.
Applications for funding may be approved on a contingent basis while the property owner awaits approval from the Planning
Department.
The Applicant will be notified in writing of the CRA’s decision within twenty (20) business days of application submittal for a
request of a grant in the amount of $10,000 or below to be approved by CRA Executive Director. If the applicant is
requesting a loan, the item will be brought to the next available CRA meeting. The CRA Executive Director will provide a
Notice to Proceed or denial within fifteen (15) days of CRA Board approval.
Selection Criteria
The CRA Representative will review the completed application with respect for the review criteria and will state his/her findings to
the CRA Executive Director.
Review Criteria Scoring System
10
Financial Incentive Program
CRITERIA POINTS
Location/Visibility 50 points total
Proposed improvements will
contribute significantly to the Café
District4
25
Strategic location of property in
facilitating the Café District
concept.
10
Significant Architecturally to
Downtown
15
Potential Aesthetic Improvement 50 points total
Current compatibility of existing
structure to the surrounding
structures/styles
Poor 25
Fair 15
Good 5
Current condition or appearance
of facade
Poor 25
Fair 15
Good 5
100 points possible
Applications that score below 60 points will be recommended for denial. Applicants are advised that grant and loans funds are
provided at the sole discretion of the CRA Executive Director, CRA Board and the findings stated in the recommendation do not
create an entitlement to funding.
Available Assistance
4 Significant contributions to desired environment include restaurants with outdoor seating, neighborhood retail and lifestyle business.
11
The CRA will set the amount of assistance available for the fiscal year in its Annual Budget. The maximum grant contribution per
application is set at $10,000. If a structure consists of multiple buildings, storefronts or is a substantially larger site (or if the necessary
improvements are extraordinarily expensive), the property owner may qualify for up to $25,000 in loan assistance which would be
coupled to the $10,000 grant to total as much as $35,000 in available assistance from the CRA. Additional assistance may be
available at the discretion of the CRA, with any award amount requiring a matching $1:$1 (dollar-for-dollar) expenditure by the
property or business owner for improvements that correspond with this program and the furtherance of the Café District concept.
Any amount awarded over $10,000 will be secured by a mortgage, note and Financial Incentive Agreement. All CRA grant and
loan proceeds will be paid to the property or business owner on a reimbursement basis, in one payment (evidenced by a letter of
request for the funds and copies of paid receipts from contractors or vendors) upon completion of the corresponding improvements
as evidenced by Final Inspection from Building Department.
In addition, property or business owner must agree to leave the completed project in its approved design and colors for a period of
five (5) years from the date of completion in order to receive this funding.
Expiration of Financial Incentive Program Commitment
Applicants must undertake construction of improvements within one hundred twenty (120) days from the date that the CRA
approves the commitment or the award will expire. Extensions may be granted by the CRA Executive Director under extenuating
circumstances.
Application
1. Completed application form.
2. Photographs of the existing building and the proposed project area including surrounding buildings.
12
Program Tips
A.Start early. Funds are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. Only one grant shall be awarded for per property.
B. Use the Design Guidelines detailed in the Clearwater Downtown Redevelopment Plan. The plan was created with the help of your
neighbors and with the advice of talented architects and urban planners.
C. Work with your architect of choice from our pre-approved list. These architects understand the application and approval process. They will
work with you to develop designs that can be approved in a smooth and expeditious manner. The architect will be your personal project
advisor. He/she knows how to create and get approved a design that will satisfy regulators and make you and your customers happy.
a.Save and show-off your building’s architectural features (such as accessories, awnings, and signs); harmonize them with
neighboring structures. No Grant monies or matching monies shall be used to perform general repair, structural, or habitable work
or otherwise to meet code to occupy the building.
b. Choose color schemes that follow the Downtown Design Guidelines and that accent your building and harmonize with adjacent
buildings. The Downtown Plan (available on the City’s website at www.myclearwater.com) is your guide.
c. Work with your architect/project advisor to create and agree on a façade improvement plan for your building. The plan should
include descriptions and drawings of changes. Use the attached checklist as a guide.
D. Assemble your façade Improvement packet. Include the following:
a. Technical materials and images.
b. Notarized written consent from the building owner if you are a merchant applying for funds. Your City licenses (Business Tax Receipt)
must be up to date.
c. Hold Harmless Agreement.
d. Obtain construction estimates from registered contractors with sufficient experience, insurance and bonding.
E. Submit your application to the CRA office. The CRA may want you to present your proposed changes at a meeting.
F.Expect to match each grant and loan dollar with a dollar of your own investment. Funds may be awarded as follows:
a. Up to $10,000 in grant funds.
b. Up to $25,000 in loan funds.
G. Wait for your ‘notice to proceed’ before beginning work. Work that begins without this notice may not be eligible for reimbursement.
H. Make the planned changes to your building.
I.Submit a copy of the paid bill for reimbursement with an affidavit from the contractor certifying that the work is complete. Any unapproved
changes will void the grant. If design changes are necessary during construction, coordinate the work with the architect and the CRA
Representative.
The CRA reserves the right to grant or loan additional money to targeted projects that they believe will have a significant positive impact on the area.
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Façade Improvement Program Application
City of Clearwater Community Redevelopment Agency
Prior to completion of this application, please contact the City of Clearwater CRA to review this process at (727) 562-4044.
Community Redevelopment Agency Date
112 South Osceola Avenue, 1st Floor
Clearwater, Florida 33756
Name and Type of Business
Location of Business
(Street address, name of building if applicable)
Property Owner Phone
Contact (if different from owner)
Email Address
Property Owner Mailing Address
Two-Part Program:
1) The Façade Design Services program provides a maximum of $4,000.00 in architectural design assistance to
applicants.
2) The Façade Financial Incentive Program provides up to a $10,000 (dollar-for-dollar) matching grant that can be used towards any exterior
architectural improvements to the street-side façade. For properties with two street-front facades or a second, prominently visible façade, the
second façade may be eligible for up to a $10,000 matching loan. The maximum grant contribution per application is set at $10,000 per
approximate 30 feet of street frontage. If a structure consists of multiple buildings, storefronts or is substantially larger site, the available assistance
may be increased at the discretion of the CRA, with any award amount requiring a matching $1:$1 expenditure by the property or business
owner. Any amount awarded by the CRA over $10,000 will be secured by a mortgage which would be repaid at the time of sale, within fifteen
(15) years or upon a default of the Mortgage and Note.and may be transferred to the new property owner under certain conditions.
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Estimated number of linear feet facing a public-right-of-way:(If the building faces onto more than one street,
such as a building located on a corner, give the estimated frontage feet of the secondary façade )
Requested Grant Amount $ Requested Loan Amount $
General description of proposed improvement:
Façade Windows/Doors Awnings/Canopies Lighting Painting Signage Other
I hereby submit this Application for Façade Design Services. I understand that this must be approved by the CRA and that I should not begin any
work with the selected Architect until I have received written approval (Notice to Proceed) from the CRA. I also understand that the grant funds
will not be paid to me, but will be paid directly to the architect upon completion of their work.
Signature of Property Owner _________________________________________________ Date_________________
Signature of Business Owner _________________________________________________ Date_________________
For Façade Design Services Only - - STOP HERE
CRA Staff use only
Date of initial contact: ________________Electronic submission In person
Staff representative:
Design Professional:
Pre-Application Meeting Post-Application Meeting
CRA Board:Approved Denied Date
Property Site File Number
Planning Dept:Approved Denied Date
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Proposed Scope of Work:
Please provide a brief, general description of the work to be performed, materials to be used, color and material samples
(if applicable).
Exterior Walls (Includes front facade, second façade (if applicable), structural, decorative and non-functional elements)
Windows/Doors
Awnings/Canopies
______
Lighting
____________
Painting
Signage
Other
Attachments:The following attachments are required:
Project schedule.
Photographs of the existing building and proposed project area.
Schematic drawings illustrating proposed work, or pictures with project description outlines.
Planning Department Review.
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Two (2) cost estimates.
Property Address:
Property Legal description:
Façade Improvement Summary (please add costs and descriptions):
Grant Funds Usage
Signage Cost:$
Removal New Altered/Repaired
Awning Cost:$
Painting Cost: $
Square feet?
Cosmetic Alteration Cost: $
Describe:
Structural Alteration Cost: $
Describe:
Total Project Cost: $
Amount Requested
(Not to Exceed 50% of Total Project Cost)*: $
*Grantee is solely responsible for securing & paying for any permits
Loans Funds Usage
Signage Cost:$
Removal New Altered/Repaired
Awning Cost:$
Painting Cost: $
Square feet?
Cosmetic Alteration Cost: $
Describe:
Structural Alteration Cost: $
Describe:
Total Project Cost: $
Amount Requested
(Not to Exceed 50% of Total Project Cost)*: $
*Grantee is solely responsible for securing & paying for any permits
I hereby submit this application for a Façade Improvement Grant. I understand that these building improvements must be approved by the City
of Clearwater and no work should begin until I have received written approval from the CRA. I also understand that the grant funds will not be
paid until the project is complete. I agree to leave the completed project in its approved design and colors for a period of five (5) years from the
date of completion.
Signature of Property Owner _________________________________________________ Date_________________ Signature of Business Owner
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_________________________________________________ Date_________________
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Please submit this checklist as part of your application
Minor Improvements
SIGNS:
Provide a color rendering of the design chosen. Your
assigned architect/project advisor can do this for you.
Include specifications as to the size and width of the sign.
Note how and where the sign will be hung on the building
Submit at least two written estimates from sign companies.
Make sure the design and size comply with City codes.
AWNINGS: (provide color rendering)
Provide information about color and style of awning
chosen. Remember, awning selection must take into
account the architectural style of the building.
Note where awning will be placed on building.
Submit written estimate.
PAINT: (provide color rendering)
Provide samples of the colors chosen
Mark the location of body colors and accent colors.
Submit written estimate from painter of your choice.
COSMETIC IMPROVEMENTS:
Provide pictures and/or samples of the accessories (such as
lighting, planter boxes, etc.)
Submit a written estimate from two licensed contractors.
Major Improvement
MAJOR FAÇADE ALTERATION:
Provide a rendering of major changes.
Provide all applicable items from Minor Improvements list
on left side of this chart.
Provide building and construction details, diagrams, and
signed and sealed engineering or architectural drawings,
as appropriate
Submit a written estimate from two licensed contractors.
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Hold Harmless Agreement
Release executed on the ______ day of _____________________, 20_______, by (Property Owner) _________________________________________________
and (Tenant if Applicable) ______________________________________________________________________,
of (Street Address) ______________________________________________________________________________,
City of Clearwater, State of Florida, referred to as Releaser(s). In consideration of being granted monies for restoration, modifications,
signage, or other physical changes to the property located at the above address, the Releaser(s), understands that they are solely
responsible for providing their own contractors, and to assure that those contractors are fully insured and licensed and have obtained
all necessary permits in accordance with City regulations. The Releaser(s) waives, releases, discharges, and covenants not to sue the
City of Clearwater, City of Clearwater Community Redevelopment Agency, or any successors or assigns for loss or damage, and
claims or damages therefore, on account of any work that has been performed in accordance with City or State guidelines.
Releaser(s) agrees that this release, waiver, and indemnity agreement is intended to be as broad and inclusive as permitted by the
laws of the State of Florida and that if any portion of the agreement is held invalid, it is agreed that the balance shall,
notwithstanding, continue in full legal force and effect. Releaser(s) further states that it has carefully read the above release and
knows the contents of the release and signs this release as its own free act. Releaser’s obligations and duties hereunder shall in not
manner be limited or restricted by the maintaining of any insurance coverage related to the above referenced event. This release
contains the entire agreement between the parties to this agreement and the terms of this release are contractual and not a mere
recital.
Dated this ______ day of _____________________, 20_____.
Property Owner Signature___________________________________________________________________________
(Please Print) _______________________________________________________________________________________
Witness ____________________________________________________________________________________________
(Please Print) _______________________________________________________________________________________
Tenant Signature (if applicable) _____________________________________________________________________
(Please Print) _______________________________________________________________________________________
Witness ____________________________________________________________________________________________
(Please Print) ______________________________________________________________________________________
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Cover Memo
City of Clearwater City Hall
112 S. Osceola Avenue
Clearwater, FL 33756
File Number: ID#15-2045
Agenda Date: 1/19/2016 Status: Agenda ReadyVersion: 1
File Type: Action ItemIn Control: Community Redevelopment Agency
Agenda Number: 4.2
SUBJECT/RECOMMENDATION:
Amend the Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) Rules to provide the option to appoint a
CRA Executive Director who does not also serve as an Assistant City Manager.
SUMMARY:
The CRA Rules were approved by the CRA on March 4, 2002. Rule 2 stipulates that the
Executive Director will be the Assistant City Manager and will report directly to the City
Manager. In order to give the CRA the option of appointing a separate CRA Executive
Director, Rule 2 is amended to read:
“The Executive Director shall be the Assistant City Manager or a Director who reports directly
to the City Manager and/or Assistant City Manager and to the Agency and make
recommendations as to how CRA programs and funding should be executed.”
Page 1 City of Clearwater Printed on 1/15/2016
Cover Memo
City of Clearwater City Hall
112 S. Osceola Avenue
Clearwater, FL 33756
File Number: ID#16-2047
Agenda Date: 1/19/2016 Status: Agenda ReadyVersion: 1
File Type: Action ItemIn Control: Community Redevelopment Agency
Agenda Number: 4.3
SUBJECT/RECOMMENDATION:
Appoint Economic Development and Housing Director Geraldine Campos-Lopez as the
Interim Executive Director of the Community Redevelopment Agency.
SUMMARY:
The previous Executive Director, Assistant City Manager Rod Irwin, retired in December 2015.
A recruitment effort is ongoing for his replacement. Appointing Ms. Campos-Lopez as the
Interim Executive Director will permit the current CRA efforts to continue.
Page 1 City of Clearwater Printed on 1/15/2016
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