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10/02/1997CITY COMMISSION MEETING CITY OF CLEARWATER October 2, 1997 Present: Rita Garvey Mayor/Commissioner J. B. Johnson Vice-Mayor/Commissioner Robert Clark Commissioner Ed Hooper Commissioner Karen Seel Commissioner Michael J. Roberto City Manager Kathy S. Rice Deputy City Manager Bob Keller Assistant City Manager Pamela K. Akin City Attorney Scott Shuford Central Permitting Director Rich Baier Engineering Director Cynthia E. Goudeau City Clerk Patricia O. Sullivan Board Reporter The Mayor called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. at City Hall. The invocation was offered by Dr. James Hilton of 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. ITEM #3 - Introductions and Awards Proclamation: Fire Prevention Week - October 5 -11, 1997 ITEM #4 - Presentations A 7-minute video was presented regarding the 1998 Winter Olympics in Nagano, Japan ITEM #5 - Approval of Minutes Commissioner Johnson moved to approve the minutes of the regular meeting of September 18, 1997, and the special meeting of September 29, 1997, as recorded and submitted in written summation by the City Clerk to each Commissioner. The motion was duly seconded and carried unanimously. ITEM #6 - Citizens to be heard re items not on the Agenda Patrick Shepler, President of IAFF (International Association of Fire Fighters), expressed concern the City had offered the union no pay increase while offering the Police Department a 13.5% increase. He said firefighters deserve a fair contract and to be treated respectfully by the City’s negotiator. PUBLIC HEARINGS ITEM #7 - Public Hearing & First Reading Ord. #6192-97 - Vacating 15’ utility easement lying between Lots 16-23, Blk B, Clearwater Beach Park 1st Addition and Lots 12-15, Blk A, Clearwater Beach Park 1st Addition Replat (Heilman’s Restaurant Inc. / Heilman Family Ltd. Partnership, V97-15)(EN) The applicant proposes to enclose an existing attached overhang that encroaches into the easement along the East side of Heilman’s Restaurant, 447 Mandalay Avenue. The City’s sanitary sewer line within the easement serves the restaurant only. GTE, GTE Media Ventures, and Time Warner Cable have overhead lines in the easement and do not object to the vacation request provided private easements are granted over their existing facilities. Florida Power has no objections. Engineering Services has no objections provided a sanitary sewer utility access portal is installed at the northerly line of the subject easement to separate the City’s portion of the sewer line from the restaurant’s lateral and private easements dedicated to public utilities. Commissioner Clark moved to approve the applicants’ request to vacate the 15-foot utility easement lying between Lots 16 through 23, Block B, Clearwater Beach Park 1st Addition and Lots 12 through 15, Block A, Clearwater Beach Park 1st Addition Replat provided a sanitary sewer utility access portal is installed at the northerly line of the subject easement to separate the City’s portion of the sewer line from the restaurant’s lateral and private easements are dedicated to GTE, GTE Media Ventures, and Time Warner Cable. The motion was duly seconded and carried unanimously. The City Attorney presented Ordinance #6192-97 for first reading and read it by title only. Commissioner Hooper moved to pass Ordinance #6192-97 on first reading. The motion was duly seconded and upon roll call, the vote was: "Ayes": Johnson, Clark, Hooper, Seel and Garvey. "Nays": None. ITEM #8 - Public Hearing & First Reading Ord. #6179-97 - Relating to Flood Damage Prevention Regulations; amending Sec. 51.03, revising definition of substantial improvement (CP) The State recently changed the definition of substantial improvement for construction in the Coastal Construction Zone. Property owners now can change interior finishes without counting the cost toward the 5-year cumulative total. Interior finish work includes floor coverings, painting, wall covering, expensive plumbing, and lighting fixtures. The proposed code amendment reflects this change in State law. The change makes compliance with flood protection requirements less onerous for citizens. Commissioner Johnson moved to revise the definition of substantial improvement. The motion was duly seconded and carried unanimously. The City Attorney presented Ordinance #6179-97 for first reading and read it by title only. Commissioner Seel moved to pass Ordinance #6179-97 on first reading. The motion was duly seconded and upon roll call, the vote was: "Ayes": Johnson, Clark, Hooper, Seel and Garvey. "Nays": None. ITEM #9 - (Cont’d 08/21/97) Variance(s) to Sign Regulations for property located at 101 S. Park Place Blvd., Storz Ophthalmics, Inc., Park Place, Lots 2 & 3 (The Grand Reserve at Park Place Limited Partnership, SV97-09)(CP) On August 21, 1997, this item was continued as the applicant wished to reduce the request. The applicant now has requested variances for each entrance: 1) a variance of 3 signs to allow 5 signs and 2) a 11.1-square foot variance to allow a 59.1-square foot aggregate sign area. The Grand Reserve apartments will be built on Lots 2 and 3 of Park Place which is zoned Residential Planned Development-16. Gated entrances will be constructed on each side of Park Place Boulevard, which divides the development. The applicant proposes to construct a 41.5-square foot “Grand Reserve” sign in the median of each entrance and to place on each of the 4 gates “GR” logo signs, each 4.4-square feet. The sign code allows two 24-square foot signs at each entrance. Ed Armstrong, representative for the applicant, said the proposed signs total slightly more than 59-square feet where 48-square feet are allowed. He said although the “GR” initials are considered signs, their visual impact will not be offensive. The entrance will be set back 85 feet on the West side of Park Place Boulevard and 74 feet on the East side. Commissioner Clark moved to approve the following variances: 1) a variance of 3 signs to allow 5 signs at each entrance and 2) a 11.1-square foot variance to allow an aggregate sign area of 59.1 square feet at each entrance, on property identified as Storz Ophthalmics, Inc., Park Place, Lots 2 and 3, for meeting Sec. 45.24, Standards for Approval, items (1)-(4). The motion was duly seconded and carried unanimously. ITEM #10 - (Cont’d 09/04/97) Public Hearing & First Reading Ords. #6172-97 & #6173-97 - Land Use Plan Amendment to Recreation/Open Space & OS/R & P Zoning for property located at 2950 Drew St., Sec. 8-29-16, M&B 44.01 (City of Clearwater, LUP97-07, Z97-08) Commissioner Hooper moved to continue Item #10 to November 6, 1997. The motion was duly seconded and carried unanimously. ITEM #11 - (Cont’d 09/04/97) Public Hearing - Annexation & 1) CH, 2) RS-4 Zoning for property located at 1) 18350 US19N, Sec. 19-29-16, M&B 44.12 & part of 44.11 & 2) Hampshire Acres, Blk A, Lots 12 & 13 (Staring, TRE / Rite-On Land Trust, Progressive Development Group, Inc., Z97-08) Staff requested continuing this item until after the Planning & Zoning Board makes a recommendation. Commissioner Clark moved to continue Item #11. The motion was duly seconded and carried unanimously. Public Hearing - Second Reading Ordinances ITEM #12 - Ord. #6183-97 - Amending Operating Budget for Fiscal Year ending 09/30/97 The City Attorney presented Ordinance #6183-97 for second reading and read it by title only. Commissioner Johnson moved to pass and adopt Ordinance #6183-97 on second and final reading. The motion was duly seconded and upon roll call, the vote was: "Ayes": Johnson, Clark, Hooper, Seel and Garvey. "Nays": None. ITEM #13 - Ord. #6184-97 - Amending Capital Improvement Program Report and Budget for Fiscal Year ending 09/30/97 The City Attorney presented Ordinance #6184-97 for second reading and read it by title only. Commissioner Hooper moved to pass and adopt Ordinance #6184-97 on second and final reading. The motion was duly seconded and upon roll call, the vote was: "Ayes": Johnson, Clark, Hooper, Seel and Garvey. "Nays": None. ITEM #14 - Ord. #6189-97 - Vacating N 8’ of 25’ drainage & utility easement lying along S side of Lot 66 Windsor Park 1st Addition (Richard & Doris Harding, Jr., V97-13) The City Attorney presented Ordinance #6189-97 for second reading and read it by title only. Commissioner Seel moved to pass and adopt Ordinance #6189-97 on second and final reading. The motion was duly seconded and upon roll call, the vote was: "Ayes": Johnson, Clark, Hooper, Seel and Garvey. "Nays": None. ITEM #15 - Ord. #6190-97 - Vacating 20’ drainage & utility easement lying along N side of Lot 14, less westerly 15’; and vacate 5’ drainage easement lying along E side of said Lot less southerly 10’ thereof; together with; 20’ drainage & utility easement and 5’ drainage easement, both lying along W side of Lot 13, less northerly 12’ and southerly 10’ thereof, The Reserve Sub. (William & Debra Baumgart, V97-14) The City Attorney presented Ordinance #6190-97 for second reading and read it by title only. Commissioner Clark moved to pass and adopt Ordinance #6190-97 on second and final reading. The motion was duly seconded and upon roll call, the vote was: "Ayes": Johnson, Clark, Hooper, Seel and Garvey. "Nays": None. CITY MANAGER REPORTS CONSENT AGENDA (Items #16-29) - Approved as submitted. ITEM #16 - Approval of Purchases & Declaration of Surplus per 09/24/97 memorandum: Extension, satellite copy machine service, Xerox Corp., includes all equipment & supplies other than paper necessary to make photo copies by all departments, 11/01/97 -09/30/98, estimated $77,000 (IM) Amendment, professional services agreement, HDR Engineering, Inc., to include maximum fee of $115,229 for work in conjunction with additional alternatives provided by citizen & business input for the PD&E (Project Development and Environmental) Study in progress (EN) Shrimp & Bait for resale at Pier 60, West Coast Shrimp, 10/02/97 -09/30/98, estimated $30,000 (MR) Increase contract with Stringer Tire Company, tire service, repair & replacement, to estimated $295,000 to provide funding for remaining period ending 12/31/97 (GS) Miscellaneous radio parts necessary to repair City’s 800 MHz trunking radio system, Ericsson, Inc., 10/03/97 -12/31/99, estimated $110,000 (GS) Blanket Purchase Order for $145,000 to Flash Equipment, Inc. for emergency lighting, sirens, speakers, trailer hitches, miscellaneous lighting & other equipment for City vehicles, 10/03/97 -06/30/00 (GS) Declare surplus to City needs, one Scotchlite Heat Lamp Applicator, Serial #2363, and authorize disposal through highest bid Declare vehicles & equipment surplus to City needs, and authorize disposal through Tampa Machinery Auction ITEM #17 -Lease renewal, 1000 Vine Ave., Jurgens Addition to Clearwater, Blk E, part Lot 10, from Albert & Linda Guy, 10/01/97 -09/30/98, with one 1-year term option, $400 per month for total $4,800 (property used for North Greenwood Neighborhood Office)(CRT) ITEM #18 - First Amendment to Fire Protection Services Agreement with Pinellas County Fire Protection Authority, extending term to 03/31/98 (FD) ITEM #19 - Contract for subaqueous directional bore of Dunedin Causeway to A & L Underground, Inc., $264,722 (GAS) ITEM #20 - Ratify & Confirm Blanket Purchase Orders for purchase of vehicle parts from Fleet Products, Inc., for $71,500 (GS) ITEM #21 - Extend services of existing contract with PBMS (Pitney Bowes Management Services) to include processing all city “office” mail, pre-sort (bulk) mail, temporary mail courier & other special mailing projects, for $45,340 (IM) ITEM #22 - Agreement with the School Board of Pinellas County for continuation of School Resource Officer Program, for 1997/98 school year, at Clearwater High School & Countryside High School (PD) ITEM #23 - Approve $23,737.44 donation in 1997 PILOT Funds, paid to City by CHA (Clearwater Housing Authority) to CHIP (Clearwater Homeless Intervention Project, Inc.) to offset impact and permit fees (PD) ITEM #24 - Contract for renovation of infield playing surface at Jack Russell Stadium to Athletic Services, $92,500 (PR) ITEM #25 - Second Amendment to lease agreement dated 03/07/96 with Clearwater Newspapers, Inc., extending term to 01/31/98, renewable monthly thereafter at City option, Aiken Sub., Blks 9 & 10, for MSB/PS temporary parking facilities (EN) ITEM #26 - Work Order for accidental emission release risk management plan, McKim & Creed, $126,500 (EN) ITEM #27 - Approve ranking & award contract to Ash Engineering, Inc. for services related to Allen’s Creek Experimental Water Quality Treatment Demonstration Project, at a cost to the City of $65,800 (EN) ITEM #28 - Amendment to Cooperative Agreement with SWFWMD for design & construction of an Experimental/Educational Pond Project at Druid Road and Allen’s Creek (EN) ITEM #29 - Contract for consultant services, Natural Resources Planning Services, Inc., to complete Phase II of City Street Tree Inventory, and authorize use of City Tree Replacement Fund for City’s $16,700 portion (EN) Commissioner Hooper 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. The City Manager reported Scott Davis with the Pinellas County School Board had attended the meeting to thank the City for the experimental/educational pond project by Clearwater High School (Item #28). OTHER ITEMS ON CITY MANAGER REPORT ITEM #30 - Authorize City Attorney to execute a contract with Siemon, Larsen & Marsh to prepare a comprehensive revision to the City Land Development Code for $234,450 (CP) The City Commission has directed the preparation of a revised Land Development Code to streamline code requirements and allow staff to focus on “value-added regulations.” To prepare the best possible document to guide development during the next 20 years, staff recommends retaining outside legal counsel. SLM (Siemon, Larsen & Marsh) has assisted the City with litigation issues related to the sign code. Staff recommends retaining this firm to assist in this comprehensive code revision effort. No bidding is required to retain outside legal counsel; staff has determined SLM is the best possible consultant for this project based on their knowledge of City regulations and respected national reputation. The City Manager said the City needs to be prepared for the next 10 to 15 years of redevelopment. Key issues were identified when staff worked to streamline processes and facilitate improvements. He stated Central Permitting Director Scott Shuford had done an outstanding job trying to address a myriad of issues. Staff will present drafts to the City Commission and community. The City Manager reported all changes must be reviewed by County and State processes. Support of the contract was expressed. A Task Force was recommended to determine community wants. A request was made for additional time to study the issue. Commissioner Clark moved to continue Item #30 until October 16, 1997. The motion was duly seconded. It was stated staff had performed admirably on the code revision. It was noted SLM has a background in planning and legal issues. It was felt the expense is worthwhile. It was indicated the proposal has funding attached to specific tasks; the project will be on time and on budget. Further discussion was requested regarding the City’s savings account. Upon the vote being taken, the motion carried unanimously. ITEM #31 - Approve collective bargaining agreement as negotiated with FOP 10 for Fiscal Years 1997/98, 1998/99, and 1999/00 (CM) On September 30, 1997, the most recent 3-year collective bargaining agreement between the City and FOP (Fraternal Order of Police, Lodge 10) expired. City management staff and FOP 10 representatives have met since July 31, 1997, to negotiate a new contract. On September 15, 1997, the parties came to a tentative agreement for a new 3-year contract. FOP 10 submitted the agreement to its membership which ratified it by a majority vote on September 22, 1997. Major contract provisions include: 1) union time off with pay increased to 272 hours per year; 2) sick hours capped at 1,560 for all bargaining unit employees. Eligible employees can participate in buyout of excess sick leave hours at 60% of employee’s hourly base rate of pay at July 1998. City to donate 3 sick leave days to sick leave bank for all employees who have reached the cap and used no sick time during the calendar year; 3) employees or new hires may not move to a residence North of SR 52 or East of I-75 in Pasco County or East of I-275 in Hillsborough County; 4) employees will be allowed to donate sick leave at 50% value in addition to previous vacation days; 5) Police Chief may reassign any officer when reassignment is in department’s best interest; 6) minimum educational requirement for Sergeant to include 2-year degree; 7) vacation leave hours to be capped at 240 hours effective January 1999; 8) clothing allowance eliminated. City to supply uniforms of shirts, pants, jackets, and ties; 9) wages (increases not cumulative): a) Police Officers - increase - 3.5% on October 1, 1997, 3.75% as of January 1, 1999, and 5.75% as of January 1, 2000; b) Police Service Technicians - increase - 3.5% on October 1, 1997, 2.75% on October 1, 1998, and 2.75% on October 1, 1999; c) Police Service Supervisors - increase - 5% classification adjustment on October 1, 1997; and d) Parking Enforcement Officers - no increase; e) 2½% step added for employees to receive after being in highest step in their classification for 2 years; 10) monthly allowance for Canine Officers now based on reimbursement for actual expenditures with proofs of payment; 11) during retirement advancement, employees not eligible to receive or accrue benefits except retirement credit; and 12) Letter of Agreement indicates any system of discipline or performance management in which the Union fails to participate does not alter the City’s right to implement changes. Deputy City Manager Kathy Rice said the contract meets the City’s goal of diminishing long term liabilities. Pay rates are based on market pay scales. Commissioner Johnson moved to approve the collective bargaining agreement as negotiated with FOP 10 for Fiscal Years 1997/98, 1998/99, and 1999/00 and that the appropriate officials be authorized to execute same. The motion was duly seconded and carried unanimously. ITEM #32 - First Reading Ord. #6196-97 - Creating Sec. 30.054 imposing certain parking restrictions within street r-o-w in residential areas, and providing exceptions; creating Sec. 30.055 defining “inoperative vehicle” and prohibiting the keeping, storing, parking, or allowing to remain on public property of inoperative vehicles for longer than 24 hours; creating Sec. 30.056 prohibiting the parking of vehicles upon public property or street r-o-w for the purpose of displaying for sale; creating Sec. 30.057 providing for enforcement of Secs. 30.054-30.056; renumbering Secs. 30.054 through 30.057 as Secs. 30.058 through 30.061 (CRT) Due to the need for an enforcement tool in addition to the MCEB (Municipal Code Enforcement Board), Pinellas County Court, and current administrative remedies, several Sections of Chapter 30, Code of Ordinances, are proposed to address vehicular violations which already exist elsewhere in the Code. The proposed Sections would permit the issuance of traffic court parking citations and their placement directly upon vehicles in violation. CRT (Community Response Team) Code Inspectors have received parking enforcement specialist training and are authorized to issue traffic court parking citations. Issuing traffic court parking citations for clear-cut violations instead of pursuing the lengthy and complicated enforcement process would streamline further the CRT’s operations. In cases where property owners are held responsible for tenants’ code violations, issuing parking tickets would provide enforcement against the violator. Proposed Sections: 1) Section 30.054, Parking Restrictions within Rights-of-way in Residential Areas - a) locates residential parking restrictions within street rights-of-way to a chapter which may be enforced by the issuance of traffic court parking citations in addition to other means of enforcement provided in the Code of Ordinances; b) allows parking exceptions for a 6-hour period rather than the 24-hour period in the existing code; and c) totally restricts semi-trailer trucks and cabs except during the performance of a service at the premises where it is parked; 2) Section 30.055, Inoperative Vehicles on Public Property - a) defines “inoperative vehicle”; b) limits to 24-hours the time an inoperative vehicle may remain upon public property including street rights-of-way; and c) may be enforced by the issuance of traffic court parking citations in addition to other means of enforcement provided in the Code of Ordinances; 3) Section 30.056, Display of Vehicles for Sale of Public Property - locates the prohibition against parking a vehicle on public property, including street rights-of-way, to a chapter which may be enforced by the issuance of traffic court parking citations in addition to other means of enforcement provided in the Code of Ordinances; and 4) Section 30.057, Enforcement - a) provides for Sections 30.054, 30.055, and 30.056 to be enforced by the issuance of traffic court parking citations and b) authorizes any police officer, traffic infraction enforcement officer, or code inspector certified as a parking enforcement specialist to issue such tickets. In response to a question, Lt. Jeff Kronschnabl said the proposed sections differ from existing code only in the method of enforcement. It was noted car covers do not meet the requirement for covered vehicle storage. One proposed change to Section 30.054 allows parking exceptions for a period of 6 hours rather than the 24-hour period in the existing code. He reported another change to that section - (2)(b) “. . .and provided such act does not occur at the same location more than 2 times in the same month.” A concern was expressed that 2 times a month may not be sufficient. Lt. Kronschnabl indicated his department would have no problems with 4 times a month. In response to a question, Lt. Kronschnabl said the rules have not changed regarding parking recreation vehicles next to homes. Commissioner Seel moved to create Sections 30.054, 30.055, 30.056, and 30.057 to impose certain parking restrictions within street rights-of-way in residential areas, providing exceptions; defining “inoperative vehicle” and prohibiting the keeping, storing, parking, or allowing same to remain on public property or street right-of-way for longer than 24-hours; prohibiting the parking of vehicles upon public property or street rights-of-way for the purpose of displaying for sale, providing enforcement; and amending Section 30.054(2)(b) to permit the exception 4 times in the same month. The motion was duly seconded and carried unanimously. The City Attorney presented Ordinance #6196-97, as amended, for first reading and read it by title only. Commissioner Johnson moved to pass Ordinance #6196-97, as amended, on first reading. The motion was duly seconded and upon roll call, the vote was: "Ayes": Johnson, Clark, Hooper, Seel and Garvey. "Nays": None. ITEM #33 - First Reading Ord. #6197-97 - Amending Sec. 20.35 to require certain maintenance of the sidewalk portion of r-o-w by adjacent property owners (CRT) Chapter 20 of the Public Nuisance Code, enforced by the CRT (Community Response Team), provides for certain prohibited accumulations on rights-of-way such as weeds, grass, and trash. The Code does not provide for keeping the sidewalk portion of the right-of-way clear of trees, shrubs, and other vegetation. This proposed amendment to Section 20.35(2) will correct this oversight. At Work Session, concerns had been expressed regarding this ordinance’s effect on certain large trees that may warrant protection. The ordinance was redrafted to address that concern. Commissioner Johnson moved to amend Section 20.35 to require certain maintenance of the sidewalk portion of right-of-way by adjacent property owners. The motion was duly seconded and carried unanimously. The City Attorney presented Ordinance #6197-97 for first reading and read it by title only. Commissioner Hooper moved to pass Ordinance #6197-97 on first reading. The motion was duly seconded and upon roll call, the vote was: "Ayes": Johnson, Clark, Hooper, Seel and Garvey. "Nays": None. ITEM #34 - First Reading Ord. #6198-97 - Amending Sec. 28.10 to omit certain signage and placement requirements for newsracks, to provide for location determination by the City Engineer, and amending notice requirements (CRT) Staff has reviewed the Newsrack Ordinance with local newspaper companies. It was agreed to submit the following changes to the City Commission: 1) delete size restriction on newsrack signage for the purpose of advertising the newspaper (code already limits advertising to the newspaper sold/distributed by means of such newsrack); 2) delete requirement to affix distributor’s name and address on newsrack as it has been expeditious to contact management personnel assigned to respond to service calls; 4) permit the City Engineer to determine if the surface is sufficient for a newsrack rather than requiring each newsrack be placed on a 4-inch thick wire-reinforced concrete pad; and 5) provide notice of newsrack violation hearings via certified mail. Cynthia Hanin, attorney for the St. Petersburg Times, expressed concern regarding the 4-inch thick, wire-reinforced concrete pad referred to in Section 28.10(d). She said other alternatives to expensive concrete pads are available. She requested qualifying language be added to address this issue. Engineering Director Rich Baier said the regulation is based on those of other coastal cities that have sandy soil and high winds. He said under certain conditions rack weights do not work and concrete pads are necessary. Staff will be judicious about determining this requirement. In response to a question, Mr. Baier said a parkway is the right-of-way area between the edges of the sidewalk and curb. The City Attorney will meet with the St. Petersburg Times’ attorney to find out more information regarding alternatives. Commissioner Clark moved to amend Section 28.10 to omit certain signage and placement requirements for newsracks, to provide for location determination by the City Engineer and amending notice requirements. The motion was duly seconded and carried unanimously. The City Attorney presented Ordinance #6198-97 for first reading and read it by title only. Commissioner Seel moved to pass Ordinance #6198-97 on first reading. The motion was duly seconded. In response to a question, Mr. Baier said the pad acts as a stable surface for the rack which does not require an anchor. Upon roll call, the vote was: "Ayes": Johnson, Clark, Hooper, Seel and Garvey. "Nays": None. ITEM #35 - Clearwater Magazine (CM) In his September 25, 1997, memorandum, Information Management Director Jeff Harper recommended publishing and distributing Clearwater Magazine to City residents. The quarterly magazine will share the Commission’s vision and values, demonstrate the City’s commitment to the Principles of Operation, and encourage community participation in City activities. The City spends approximately $160-million annually on services and capital projects which include fun and educational programs for residents. It is difficult to keep citizens advised of these activities. Individual departments have published and distributed materials to their service users. Unless citizens are program participants or receive cable TV, they receive little information regarding City programs. The City can be more proactive in disseminating information with Clearwater Magazine which can provide up-to-date community information and highlights and integrate all information in one user-friendly piece. Clearwater Magazine will feature: 1) articles on developments and City issues; 2) neighborhood highlights; 3) downtown section; 4) Parks & Recreation programs, replacing current publication; 5) library news, replacing Channels; 6) a tear-out calendar of upcoming events; 7) a “don’t miss this” section to alert citizens to the best of Clearwater; 8) a “potpourri page” with statistics, historical information, events, services, photos, and other City information; 9) issues of interest to people planning to relocate businesses here; and 10) a sense of community awareness and pride. The magazine is modeled after Anaheim, California’s successful magazine, Anaheim. Staff proposes to print 60,000 copies of each quarterly issue and mail them directly to all households. Copies also will be placed in libraries, recreation centers, etc. The proposed budget is $183,300: 1) $107,400 - printing; 2) $61,602 - mailing; 3) $14,300 - staffing. Information Management has requested a new Public Relations Specialist position @ $43,000 annually, including benefits, responsible for coordination and the majority of the writing. It is estimated 1/3 of this position will be dedicated to the magazine. The City Manager said the magazine’s purpose is to help meet the Vision Statement’s goal. Staff has considered various venues to distribute information regarding the City. He said it will take several issues before the magazine is fully developed. The magazine will be coordinated with C-View TV. It is important to spread good news about the community. The City Manager reported $65,000 in savings from previous publications will help fund the project. Each issue will feature a key story. Mr. Harper said staff researched many distribution venues, attended a conference on government communications, and considered current City publications which are not distributed to the entire community. A qualified production manager is on staff and all production will be done in-house. Staff concluded a magazine would provide the best use of resources. He recommended a pilot program of 4 to 6 issues. It was felt the magazine will only be successful if it is useful. In response to a question, Mr. Harper felt the proposed costs are accurate. Staff is working on a mock-up and will present it before going to production. It was felt a communication vehicle to inform citizens regarding available programs and activities is important as long as the quality is high. Commissioner Seel moved to approve a pilot program to publish Clearwater Magazine. The motion was duly seconded. It was stated there are many reasons why the City should not publish a magazine. Dissatisfaction was expressed that the magazine was being mocked-up and the staff position advertised prior to City Commission approval. Upon the vote being taken, Commissioners Johnson, Hooper, Seel and Mayor Garvey voted “Aye”; Commissioner Clark voted “Nay.” Motion carried. ITEM #36 - Direction re Annexation Legislation (CLK) The City Manager reported he has a meeting scheduled with the city managers from the cities of Dunedin and Largo. The Legislative Delegation and PPC (Pinellas Planning Council) need to know where the cities stand on the annexation issue. It was felt allowing annexations will result in more efficient government. Concern was expressed the latest proposal would cost the City for sewer and water connections without indicating how the City could recover those costs. It was noted Largo, Dunedin, and Clearwater need to present a united front regarding this issue to the Legislative Delegation. Assistant City Manager Bob Keller said a strong emphasis on commercial and industrial annexation should be considered. Concern was expressed the latest County proposal would continue to permit septic tanks which create environmental problems related to the aquifer. ITEM #37 - Airport Authority - 1 appointment (CLK) Commissioner Johnson moved to appoint Dennis Roper. The motion was duly seconded and carried unanimously. ITEM #38 - Other Pending Matters - None. CITY ATTORNEY REPORTS ITEM #39 - First Readings a) Ord. #6194-97 - Relating to Environmental Advisory Board; amending Sec. 2.160, relating to members The City Attorney presented Ordinance #6194-97 for first reading and read it by title only. Commissioner Clark moved to pass Ordinance #6194-97 on first reading. The motion was duly seconded and upon roll call, the vote was: "Ayes": Johnson, Clark, Hooper, Seel and Garvey. "Nays": None. b) Ord. #6195-97 - Relating to Library Board; amending Sec. 2.192, relating to members The City Attorney presented Ordinance #6195-97 for first reading and read it by title only. Commissioner Hooper moved to pass Ordinance #6195-97 on first reading. The motion was duly seconded and upon roll call, the vote was: "Ayes": Johnson, Clark, Hooper, Seel and Garvey. "Nays": None. ITEM #40 - Other City Attorney Items The City Attorney requested permission to hire outside counsel, Thompson, Goodis & Thompson, regarding Wieslaw Skowronek versus the City. Commissioner Clark moved to approve the City Attorney’s request to hire outside counsel, Thompson, Goodis & Thompson, regarding Wieslaw Skowronek versus the City. The motion was duly seconded and carried unanimously. ITEM #41 - City Manager Verbal Reports The City Manager reviewed goals for Commission direction and review. He said the City Commission’s priorities were taken into account when specific projects were considered. He said management audits will indicate how the City is doing. He reviewed the goals under consideration: 1) redevelopment; 2) 2-year budgeting process; 3) Fire Department master plan; 4) economic development plan; 5) customer service improvements; 6) increased downtown efforts; 7) beach redevelopment; 8) integration of technology to improve information management; 9) improvements to operation efficiency; 10) prioritization of Penny for Pinellas projects; 11) introduction of vision at community block parties; 12) development of management audits and benchmarks; 13) upgrade of Land Development Code; and 14) enclave annexation. Pinellas Trail Update Engineering Director Rich Baier reviewed progress on the Pinellas Trail. CSX Railroad is in the process of moving crossing signal gates and controllers at Chestnut and Turner Streets. Pedestrian signals and associated push buttons are being relocated at the Cleveland Street Trail crossing to better serve Trail users. Traffic Engineering anticipates the installation of a Trail signal at the Chestnut Street Trail Crossing to be coordinated with the Ft. Harrison Avenue signal. Construction on the section of Pinellas Trail sidewalk adjacent to the Municipal Services Parking Garage will start in November. The Grand Opening is scheduled for December 6, 1997. The City has helped resolve some trail related problems: 1) Park Jewelers parking lot - City improved drainage; 2) parking area for 104 East Avenue - coordinated with County to place asphalt in low areas on private lot to eliminate ponding of storm runoff; and 3) D Street Alley - resolving alley access problem with the County. In response to a question, Mr. Baier said the Parks & Recreation Department is discussing several locations for rest rooms. Staff is working with the County on ways to provide special identity to the Trail. Pierce Street Pond Update Mr. Baier reviewed the Pierce Street Pond project. The City Commission had approved Phase I in May for PBS&J (Post, Buckley, Schuh and Jernigan, Inc.) to develop alternatives for the modification the Pierce Street Pond. Phase I is considering ways to modify the Pond to provide additional flow attenuation and stormwater treatment to downtown to serve the City and private development projects. Parcel scenarios include: 1) stormwater treatment and attenuation for the City’s East End and Chick Smith Property; 2) stormwater treatment and attenuation as described and redevelopment of an additional 20 private parcels; and 3) stormwater treatment for all downtown drainage basins. Phase I will be completed within 4 weeks. Phase II should take 13 weeks. Memorial Causeway Bridge Update Mr. Baier reported project costs had been estimated when the City Commission chose alternative P41A. Staff is working with residents of Pierce 100 to address their access issues. The bridge’s height will be 74 feet. Staff has worked with the MPO (Metropolitan Planning Organization) to amend their long range plan to include this project. Staff also is meeting with the State to make certain all historical, cultural, recreation etc. impacts are addressed. Staff also is meeting with the Parks & Recreation Board. Traffic circulation on Cleveland Street and Coronado Drive are being considered. Staff will report to the City Commission prior to the public hearing planned in late Spring. The RFQ (Request for Qualifications) package for the project’s design is being prepared. The downtown economic team and staff are working with FDOT (Florida Department of Transportation). The PD&E study will be completed this fall. The design work and right-of-way acquisition will begin next summer. Construction will begin in late 2001. In response to a question, Mr. Baier said the Arts Council Building will be impacted. As the building’s character has not been maintained, it has no historical significance. The Arts Council currently is looking for an alternative location. Harborview Center Sign Update Central Permitting Director Scott Shuford reported the appearance of the Harborview Center sign will be modified. Staff has ordered white lights to replace the current multi-colored ones which make the sign difficult to read. The change will permit 2 lines of text. The electric boxes will be relocated and landscaping will be added. Staff will experiment with fonts and the frequency of the message change. The sign code may require some modification. ITEM #42 - Other Commission Action Commissioner Hooper noted events planned for October 4, 1997: 1) Jazz-up Downtown; 2) “Make a Difference” Fishing Tournament at Pier 60; and 3) Safety Village Open House. Commissioner Hooper complimented the Mayor’s letter to the mayor of Belleair Beach, encouraging the City to consider contracting services with the City’s Police and Fire Departments. Concern was expressed the letter appeared to represent the Commission’s view without Commission approval. Commissioner Johnson congratulated Chief Klein for the award of a Weed and Seed grant which requires no match. Commissioner Johnson recommended reducing the City’s annual $25,000 contribution to Jazz Festival now that beer and wine sales are permitted. It was noted this is the festival’s 1st year of selling beer and wine. Festival organizers do not know what revenues to anticipate from the sale of alcoholic beverages. It was recommended the City Commission discuss the issue after this year’s festival. In response to a question, Ms. Rice said funding for this festival is incorporated in the Vision Money budget. Commissioner Seel requested quarterly updates of County and State road construction projects. Commissioner Seel reported the DDB’s (Downtown Development Board) mural project is underway and the brochure to raise project funds has been completed. Commissioner Seel questioned if children are protected from City drainage pipes during floods. Staff will present the City’s policy to the City Commission for review. Commissioner Seel requested an update of the reconstruction of Magnolia Street dock. The City Attorney indicated the City had not been advised of an appeal filed by neighbors after the project’s permits had been pulled. Staff is reviewing options and will report back to Commission. Construction has not been stopped. Mr. Baier reported many people have telephoned, indicating they would be upset if the project is stopped. Mayor Garvey expressed concern the City’s budget does not include funding for Saturday in the City. Funding by the CRA (Community Redevelopment Agency) or DDB was suggested. It was noted the program benefits the entire City. It was suggested if funding for these types of programs is competitive, Saturday in the City sponsors can come back to the City Commission with their request within the month. The difficulty in program planning without certain funding was noted. The Mayor said the program needs financial support. Mayor Garvey reviewed upcoming City events: 1) Sunsets at Pier 60 - Thursdays through Mondays; 2) Little Munich Octoberfest at Harborview Center - October 3 - 5, 1997; 3) Jazz Holiday at Coachman Park - October 16 - 19, 1997; 4) Farmers Market at Station Square Park - Saturdays beginning October 18, 1997; and 5) Kids Jazz Fest and Workshop at Harborview Center - October 18, 1997. Mayor Garvey requested residents contact the City or Florida Power regarding problems related to street lights. Mayor Garvey questioned if formal Commission approval is needed for her trip to the Winter Olympics in Nagano, Japan. Staff will report. Mayor Garvey indicated a model of the City’s Nagano hospitality center, Pavilion in the Sun, is on display in Chambers. The City’s mascot will be a “Sunlet.” ITEM #43 - Adjournment The meeting adjourned at 8:06 p.m.