02/07/2002CITY COMMISSION MEETING
CITY OF CLEARWATER
February 7, 2002
Present: Brian J. Aungst Mayor/Commissioner
Ed Hart Vice-Mayor/Commissioner
Whitney Gray Commissioner
Hoyt P.
Hamilton Commissioner
William C. Jonson Commissioner
Also present: William B. Horne II City Manager
Garry Brumback Assistant City Manager
Ralph Stone Assistant City Manager
Pamela
K. Akin City Attorney
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 Reverend William Magee of St. Matthias Lutheran 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 - Service Awards - None.
ITEM #4 - Introductions and Awards - None.
ITEM #5 - Presentations
a) Hispanic Initiatives
City Auditor
Robin Gomez reviewed City Hispanic initiatives. According to the census, between 1990 and 2000, the percentage of Hispanics in Florida has increased from 12% to 17% and in Clearwater
from 3% to 9%. The majority of the increase in Clearwater has been from the State of Hidalgo, Mexico. Challenges include language, culture, education, and immigration. City initiatives
include communication strategies, service provision, and bilingual and cultural efforts, City Spanish information, and department needs. In these efforts, the City has partnered with
the Greater Clearwater Chamber of Commerce, the YWCA, Salvation Army, Florida Department of Health, UNO Federation, faith based groups, Pinellas Cares - 211, Pinellas County, Veinte
de Julio, Mexican Council, Mexican Consulate, and Guía del Golfo.
Assistant City Manager Garry Brumback complimented Mr. Gomez for his volunteer efforts regarding this issue, noting
the City’s appreciation of his work.
b) Neighborhood and Home Recognition Program Awards
Neighborhood of the Quarter award was presented to the Northwood Estates Neighborhood. Four home of the Quarter awards were presented:
1) Atherholt residence at 1160 Jackson Road; 2) Byrnes residence at 1030 Nokomis Street; 3) Nickols residence at 1641 Windsor Place; and 4) Decker residence at 1727 Cleveland Street.
ITEM
#6 - Approval of Minutes
In reference to the January 24, 2002 minutes, page 11, under Item #28, paragraph four, sentence two, it was stated “three years ago” should read “since 1991.”
Commissioner Hart moved to approve the minutes of the Special Meeting of January 22, 2002, as recorded and submitted in written summation by the City Clerk to each Commissioner and
minutes of the regular meeting of January 24, 2002 as amended. The motion was duly seconded and carried unanimously.
ITEM #7 - Citizens to be heard re items not on the Agenda
Tom
Sehlhorst said the City’s sign law is unfair and that a judge had withheld adjudication regarding two counts against his signs. The City Attorney said the judge had held Mr. Sehlhorst
responsible for the related fines and court costs incurred.
John Wiser reviewed Countryside Committee recommendations: 1) Sunday hours at Countryside Recreation Center (has list of
volunteers); 2) improvements to SR 580 medians; 3) Landmark Drive bicycle path; 4) City welcome sign for northeast Clearwater; and 5) adoption of dawn to sunset guidelines re Realtor
and garage signs. It was requested staff report on the types of responsibilities volunteers legally can accept. The City Manager said adding Sunday hours at the Countryside Recreation
Center could be incorporated into planning the FY (fiscal year) 2002/03 budget once related costs are identified.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
Item #8 - Declare as surplus that portion of the
south 30 feet of Lot 45, Blk E, Joseph J. Eldridge Sub., less the east 30 feet, and approve a contract for exchange of real property with Thomas M. Sehlhorst to exchange said property
for a perpetual right-of-way, sidewalk and utility easement over and across the easterly 20 feet of Lot 29, 1st Addition to Palm Bluff, with the total consideration being the transfer
of the property rights between the parties. PW
On June 9, 1945, the City deeded the south half of Block “E”, Joseph J. Eldridge Sub., less the east 30 feet and south 30 feet that were
reserved for “street purposes.” The east 30 feet of the parcel are used as Myrtle Avenue right-of-way. No City records indicate the south 30 feet of the parcel, less the east 30 feet
used for Myrtle Avenue, ever was dedicated or utilized as right-of-way (“City parcel”). The City Engineer has determined use of the City parcel as right-of-way intersecting with Myrtle
Avenue would create a traffic hazard. The parcel has no other foreseeable uses.
Mr. Sehlhorst owns abutting property north of the City parcel and proposes the City exchange the parcel
for a 20-foot right-of-way, sidewalk, and utility easement over the easterly
20 feet of a vacant lot he owns at the northwest corner of Palm Bluff Street at its juncture with Blanche B. Littlejohn Trail and Myrtle Avenue (“Sehlhorst parcel”).
The proposed
easement will define and document City and public rights to continued use of the easement area for existing right-of-way, sidewalk, and utility purposes. The City parcel does not have
a tax identification number. The Property Appraiser has assessed Mr. Sehlhorst’s abutting property at $1.70 per square-foot. Mr. Sehlhorst’s vacant lot on Palm Bluff is assessed at
$3.82 per square-foot. Using these land values established by the Property Appraiser, the exchange of the fee simple estate in the 3,645 square-foot City parcel, valued at approximately
$6,200, for perpetual easement interest in the 2,640 square-foot Sehlhorst parcel valued at approximately $6,500, complies with Section 2.01(d)(5)(iv) of the City Charter requiring that
surplus real property be exchanged for other real property having comparable appraised value.
Commissioner Hart moved to declare as surplus for the purpose of exchanging the fee simple
estate in that portion of the south 30 feet of Lot 45, Block “E”, JOSEPH J. ELDRIDGE SUBDIVISION, less the east 30 feet thereof, as described in that City of Clearwater Deed recorded
in Deed Book 1017, Page 346, Public Records of Pinellas County, and approve a Contract For Exchange Of Real Property with Thomas M. Sehlhorst to exchange said property for a perpetual
right-of-way, sidewalk and utility easement over and across the easterly 20 feet of Lot 29, FIRST ADDITION TO PALM BLUFF, with the total consideration being the transfer of the property
rights between the parties, and that the appropriate officials be authorized to execute same. The motion was duly seconded and carried unanimously.
Item #9 - Declare as surplus for
the purpose of exchanging the fee simple estate in a parcel of land being a portion of Lot 1, A Resub of Baskin's Replat, and authorize Administration to Contract for Exchange of Real
Property with New Plan Excel Realty Trust, Inc. to exchange said parcel for the fee simple estate in a similar size parcel of land lying within the Southwest 1/4 of Section 17, Township
29 South, Range 16 East. PW
The Sembler Company, in association with New Plan Excel Realty Trust, Inc., is redeveloping the Clearwater Mall property. The site plan has been submitted
to the City and proposes using a portion of the fire station property for a minor expansion of the mall for retail space. The request is to exchange 1.271 acres for a like size parcel
east of Sky Harbor Drive and south of the current fire station.
After the exchange, the current fire station can be used until its new site is ready. A new fire station at this
location is scheduled for Spring of 2003. The Fire Chief indicates the proposed exchange will not affect operations, response times, or levels of service at the existing station and
the new location is adequate for construction of a fire station.
This exchange also provides the City with a marketable 2.42-acre parcel fronting Gulf-to-Bay Boulevard with an estimated
value of $918,000, if vacant, based on an appraised land valuation of $9.50 per square foot. The City has prepared an appraisal for the current fire station and reviewed the estimated
value of the property provided by Sembler/New Plan Excel Realty and has concluded the City will receive property of equal or higher value than the current appraised value of the existing
fire station. An appraisal of the City F.S. 49 site performed on August 13, 2001, valued the land at $9.50 per square-foot. An appraisal of the Sembler parcel performed on September
5, 2001, valued the land at $10 per square-foot. This exchange will enhance the proposed mall redevelopment, provide the City with an alternative fire station site,
and leave a marketable “remainder” parcel fronting Gulf-to-Bay Boulevard. Administration recommends approval.
In response to a question, Assistant City Manager Ralph Stone said no
decision has been made regarding a PSTA (Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority) bus stop location at the former Clearwater Mall site. The stop will not be on the fire station property.
PSTA is working with the developers regarding this issue.
Commissioner Hamilton moved to declare as surplus for the purpose of exchanging the fee simple estate in a parcel of land
being a portion of Lot 1, A Resub of Baskins Replat, and authorize Administration to Contract for Exchange of Real Property with New Plan Excel Realty Trust, Inc. to exchange said parcel
for the fee simple estate in a similar size parcel of land lying within the Southwest 1/4 of Section 17, Township 29 South, Range 16 East, and that the appropriate officials be authorized
to execute same. The motion was duly seconded and carried unanimously.
Public Hearing - Second Reading Ordinances
ITEM #10 - Ord. #6926-02 revising Appendix A, Schedule of Fees,
Rates and Charges, V. Buildings and Building Regulations (E47.087), code of ordinances, to add a flat fee of $40 for tent permits related to approved neighborhood activities.
The City
Attorney presented Ordinance #6926-02 for second reading and read it by title only. Commissioner Hart moved to pass and adopt Ordinance #6926-02 on second and final reading. The motion
was duly seconded and upon roll call, the vote was:
"Ayes": Hart, Gray, Hamilton, Jonson, and Aungst.
"Nays": None.
CITY MANAGER REPORTS
CONSENT AGENDA (Items #11-17) - Approved
as submitted less Items #16 and #17.
Consent Agenda items require no formal public hearing and are subject to approval by a single motion. However, any City Commissioner or the City
Manager may remove an item from the Consent Agenda for discussion and individual vote.
ITEM #11 - Approval of Purchases per Purchasing Memo:
1) Purchase Contract - Gas materials - PE pipe and fittings during the contract period: March 1, 2002 through February 28, 2003
- M.T. Deason Company, Inc. - $210,000.
2) Purchase a 2002 Morbark Model 13 brush chipper - E & E Equipment Clearwater - $29,200.
3) Purchase Contract - Fire hydrants during the contract
period: February 8, 2002 through February 28, 2003 - Mueller Company - $54,000.
ITEM #12 - Approve an addition to the Police Department's Take Home Car Plan to increase visibility of
patrol officers and vehicles to the citizens of Clearwater in the amount of $372,990 for cars and equipment, to include the awarding of a contract to Garber Auto Mall of Green Cove Springs,
Florida, in the amount of $247,440 for the purchase of ten 2002 Ford Crown Victoria Police Sedans. PD
ITEM #13 - Approve Standard Agreement Form to be used with the various Co-Sponsor
Groups and the City of Clearwater and authorize the City Manager and/or his designee to approve such agreements. PR
ITEM #14 - Approve a contract with W.H. Wolfe, Jr., and Jody R. Wolfe
to purchase Stevenson's Creek Sub., Lots 3-15, less road right-of-way, for $350,000 plus estimated environmental site assessment costs and closing expenses of $25,000, for total estimated
transaction costs not to exceed #375,000. PW
ITEM #15 - Award a contract to Azurix North America Underground Infrastructure, Inc., in the amount of $200,000 for cleaning, inspection
and repair of sanitary sewer lines (less than 15-inches in diameter) at various locations throughout the City. PW
ITEM #16 - See page 6.
ITEM #17 - See page 6.
Commissioner Jonson
requested Items 16 and 17 be pulled from consent.
Commissioner Gray moved to approve the Consent Agenda, less Items #16 and #17, and that the appropriate officials be authorized to
execute same. The motion was duly seconded and carried unanimously.
ITEM #16 -Reappoint Alex Plisko to the Community Development Board; continue to 3/21/02 the appointment to fill
seat to be vacated by Gerald Figurski. CLK
City Clerk Cyndie Goudeau reported two Community Development Board seats are open. Alex Plisko has expressed interest in reappointment.
Gerald Figurski does not want to be reappointed. Ms. Goudeau said it would be logical to appoint Alternate Board Member Frank Hibbard. However, Mr. Hibbard is running for a Commission
seat in the March 12, 2002 election. She indicated the Commission at Monday’s work session directed to delay the appointment until after the election. Mr. Figurski has offered to serve
until a replacement is appointed. The City Charter allows such an extension.
It was suggested appointments for Items #16 and #17 be delayed until after the March election so that these appointments are made at the beginning of the Commission cycle rather than
at the end. In response to a question, Ms. Goudeau stated board members are appointed to staggered 4-year terms, which do not coincide with the staggered 3-year Commission terms. The
timing of appointments is related to the date a board was created and member resignations. It was recommended current procedures be followed until the Commission discusses this issue
at a special work session addressing advisory boards.
Commissioner Hart moved to reappoint Mr. Plisko and to continue the appointment for the seat to be vacated by Gerald Figurski until
March 21, 2002. The motion was duly seconded and carried unanimously.
ITEM #17 - Reappoint Kim Cashman to the Parks & Recreation Board. CLK
See related discussion under Item #16.
Commissioner
Hamilton moved to reappoint Kim Cashman. The motion was duly seconded and carried unanimously.
OTHER ITEMS ON CITY MANAGER REPORT
ITEM #18 - Adopt Res. #02-11 approving the form of
and authorizing the execution and delivery of an interlocal agreement between the City of Clearwater and Pinellas County regarding splitting the costs of obtaining estimated for undergrounding
utilities on Clearwater Beach from the Roundabout, south on Coronado to Gulfview and then south on Gulfview to the Clearwater Pass Bridge, such validation of this agreement through the
Courts in order to determine if Penny for Pinellas Funds can be used for undergrounding utilities. FN
Pinellas County and the beach communities have been pursuing the Gulf Boulevard
Improvement Project to include streetscaping and undergrounding utility lines on certain beach thoroughfares, including those on Clearwater beach, south of the roundabout. The project
envisions each beach community paying half the costs of these improvements, and the County paying half. Clearwater has requested the route through Clearwater extend south from the roundabout
down Coronado to Hamden, west to Gulfview, and south to the Clearwater Pass Bridge.
Pinellas County, the City, and several beach municipalities wish to use Penny for Pinellas funds
to pay for the project. Attorneys have advised against the use of Penny for Pinellas funds to underground utilities until the courts have approved this specific use. Approval can be
obtained by validating an interlocal agreement specifying that use of the funds. Although the remaining beach communities are not ready to agree to pursue this project and the validation
process can take several months, the City has volunteered to enter into this agreement to begin the validation process.
The agreement states if Pinellas County or other beach communities
do not pursue this project, the agreement will be null and void and estimates will not be pursued. The City will learn if Penny for Pinellas funds can be used to underground utilities.
If the validation is unsuccessful, the City will not proceed with obtaining estimates and the agreement will be canceled. Pinellas County has agreed to pay all costs of validating
this question.
Pinellas County Convention and Visitors Bureau Director Carole Ketterhagen said the project to enhance the beauty of beach entrances is the first phase of the County’s vision to make
County beaches a premier destination. Tourism is the County’s largest industry. Ms. Ketterhagen said tourists pay 40% of the sales tax surcharge Countywide, based on visits by 18 million
tourists. She agreed the City collects more bed taxes than any other County municipality. Pinellas County Public Works representative Jim Collins said the transportation safety benefits
of undergrounding utilities include: 1) reduced visual competition with signage; 2) decreased vehicle crashes when poles are removed; 3) light poles to be replaced with breakaway ones;
4) decrease in necessary maintenance equipment; and 5) improved evacuation, as no poles will be knocked down by storms and impede traffic flow. Ms. Ketterhagen said the beaches need
to be fresh and attractive. The Tourism economy enhances residents’ quality of life with festivals and museums.
The City Manager thanked Ms. Ketterhagen and the Convention and Visitors
Bureau for a Visitors Information Center grant.
One resident said undergrounding utilities will not improve electric distribution.
Commissioner Hamilton moved to approve the
form of and authorizing the execution and delivery of an interlocal agreement between the City and Pinellas County regarding splitting the costs of obtaining estimates for undergrounding
utilities on Clearwater beach from the roundabout, south on Coronado to Gulfview and then south on Gulfview to the Clearwater pass Bridge, such City costs to be 50% of the costs of obtaining
the estimates but not to exceed $5,000, and authorizing the validation of this agreement through the Courts to determine if Penny for Pinellas funds can be used for undergrounding utilities
and that the appropriate officials be authorized to execute same. The motion was duly seconded and carried unanimously.
The City Attorney presented Resolution #02-11 and read it by
title only. Commissioner Jonson moved to pass and adopt Resolution #02-11 and authorize the appropriate officials to execute same. The motion was duly seconded and upon roll call,
the vote was:
"Ayes": Hart, Gray, Hamilton, Jonson, and Aungst.
"Nays": None.
ITEM #19 - Adopt Res. #02-08, authorizing Supplement #2 to an existing Joint Participation Agreement
with the Florida Department of Transportation, for the design, construction and extension of runway overruns, berm and landscaping at Clearwater Airpark. MR
This Supplement #2 is at
no cost to the City. It is being done in cooperation with an existing JPA (Joint Participation Agreement) with FDOT (Florida Department of Transportation) for the design, construction,
and extension of the runway and taxiway, 200 feet to the south and 800 feet to the north, and the beam and landscaping at Clearwater Airpark. The project now includes resurfacing the
runway, taxiway, taxi lanes, and aprons. The project cost estimate has been revised to $594,000, with the maximum FDOT participation at $455,000. This change represents a $280,000
increase in FDOT participation, with no additional cost to the City.
Commissioner Gray moved to authorize Supplement #2, providing $280,000 in additional funds and adding resurfacing the existing runway, taxiway, and all taxi lanes and aprons at the Clearwater
Airpark to an existing JPA (Joint Participation Agreement) with FDOT 9Florida Department of Transportation) and that the appropriate officials be authorized to execute same. The motion
was duly seconded and carried unanimously.
The City Attorney presented Resolution #02-08 and read it by title only. Commissioner Gray moved to pass and adopt Resolution #02-08 and
authorize the appropriate officials to execute same. The motion was duly seconded and upon roll call, the vote was:
"Ayes": Hart, Gray, Hamilton, Jonson, and Aungst.
"Nays": None.
ITEM
#20 - Adopt Res. #02-09, authorizing a Joint Participation Agreement with the Florida Department of Transportation, for 100% funding for Airport Security Cameras, Security Gate Improvements
and Perimeter Fence Repair at Clearwater Airpark. MR
Due to the need for increased security at public airports, the City, by this resolution, requests FDOT (Florida Department of Transportation)
funding at 100% for Airport Security Cameras, Security Gate Improvements, and Perimeter Fence Repair at Clearwater Airpark as provided by Senate Bill 48-B. The total project cost is
estimated at $70,000 and is in FDOT’s current year of the Five-year Work Program.
Marine & Aviation Director Bill Morris said the FBO (Fixed Base Operator) has increased security
by tracking flight lesson students and requiring students to be escorted to the airplanes.
Commissioner Jonson moved to authorize a JPA (Joint Participation Agreement) with FDOT
for 100% funding for Airport Security Cameras, Security Gate Improvements, and Perimeter Fence Repair at Clearwater Airpark and that the appropriate officials be authorized to execute
same. The motion was duly seconded and carried unanimously.
The City Attorney presented Resolution #02-09 and read it by title only. Commissioner Hamilton moved to pass and adopt
Resolution #02-09 and authorize the appropriate officials to execute same. The motion was duly seconded and upon roll call, the vote was:
"Ayes": Hart, Gray, Hamilton, Jonson, and
Aungst.
"Nays": None.
ITEM #21 - Municipal Code Enforcement Board - 1 appointment CLK
Commissioner Jonson moved to appoint David Campbell. The motion was duly seconded. Commissioners
Hart and Jonson voted “Aye”; Commissioners Gray, Hamilton, and Mayor Aungst voted “Nay.” Motion failed.
Commissioner Hamilton moved to appoint George Kraus. The motion was duly seconded.
Commissioners Hart, Gray, Hamilton, and Mayor Aungst voted “Aye”; Commissioner Jonson voted “Nay.” Motion carried.
ITEM #22 - 2002 Federal Legislation Package CLK
City Clerk Cyndie Goudeau reviewed the proposed 2002 Federal Legislation Package for the City: 1) Clearwater Beach Redevelopment: a)
goal to obtain $5-million appropriation in FY (fiscal year) 2003 unnamed appropriation bill to assist in revitalizing Clearwater beach; b) Federal support of City’s “Beach by Design”
initiative will provide public infrastructure & improvements to foster private redevelopment; and c) supported upgrades to beach to include constructing “beach promenade,” and promoting
congestion mitigation by improving sidewalks, incorporating bike paths, and mobilizing a beach front transit system; 2) Stevenson Creek Estuary Restoration Program: a) goal to obtain
$2.8-million appropriation in FY 2003 Energy & Water appropriations bill for restoration and rehabilitation of this threatened estuarine ecosystem; b) creek has been impacted significantly
by encroachment that has eliminated approximately 40 acres of tidal wetlands; c) creek is located partially in federally designated Brownfields area & discharges into Clearwater Harbor;
and d) project is component of larger Stevenson’s Creek Watershed Management Plan; 3) Wastewater & Reclaimed Water Infrastructure: a) goal to obtain $5-million appropriation in FY 2003
VA-HUD appropriations bill under State & Tribal for assistance in repairing & upgrading wastewater & reclaimed water infrastructure: b) system upgrade needed to meet federal & state
regulations; and c) expansion of reclaimed water system will reduce impacts on natural aquifer & assist with disposal of treated wastewater; 4) Brownfields Clean-up: a) goal to obtain
$3 million appropriation in FY 2003 unnamed appropriations bill under Economic Development Initiative for acquisition & remediation of downtown properties; b) Downtown Clearwater is
within Clearwater’s Brownfields Area; c) acquisition & remediation of area properties will remove impediments to downtown redevelopment; and d) environmental concerns will be addressed
by removing anticipated soil & groundwater contamination; and 5) Homeless Intervention Program - obtain $2.5 million appropriation in unnamed appropriation bill. Project details are
being determined
Additionally, Clearwater will seek funding through Firefighters Investment and Response Enhancement, Brownfields Remediation, Urban Park and Recreation Recovery and
other grant programs.
It was noted additional Brownfields funding was reported at the Conference of Mayors. The President’s support of Brownfields funding was also noted. It was
noted infrastructure upgrades, needed between the Clearwater Pass Bridge and the Adams Mark and on Mandalay Avenue north of Baymont, would make a significant difference. Ms. Goudeau
said the City is requesting $5-million to construct Beach Walk which will be matched by the City by addressing these infrastructure needs. In response to a question, Assistant City
Manager Ralph Stone said the City is trying to avoid using Penny for Pinellas funds for beach redevelopment by pursuing grants.
Commissioner Hart moved to approve the City’s 2002
Federal Legislation Package. The motion was duly seconded and carried unanimously.
ITEM #23 - Other Pending Matters
1) Authorize a contract with the firm of Bryant, Miller and Olive,
P.A. in the amount of $30,000 for legal services to amend the Community Sports Complex Development Agreement between the City of Clearwater and the Philadelphia Phillies and to assist
in any discussions and/or documents required for the acquisition of an alternative property to serve as the Community Sports Complex site. PR
In conjunction with the decision to seek alternative sites for the Community Sports Complex, revisions to the Development Agreement will be required to address site selection and the
project schedule. Staff is requesting approval to issue a $30,000 purchase order to the firm Bryant, Miller and Olive, P.A. to complete necessary amendments and to assist with any work
associated with the acquisition of an alternative project site. Bryant, Miller and Olive, P.A. is familiar with the project and has contributed to the completion of the Use Agreement
between the City and Philadelphia Phillies, which will govern the activities between the parties upon completion of a new sports complex.
It was stated these funds are included in
the project’s scope and require no additional funding.
Commissioner Hamilton moved to authorize a contract with the firm Bryant, Miller and Olive, P.A. in the amount of $30,000 for
legal services to amend the Community Sports Complex Development Agreement between the City and the Philadelphia Phillies and to assist in any discussions and/or documents required for
the acquisition of an alternative property to serve as the Community Sports Complex site. The motion was duly seconded and carried unanimously.
2) Cabana Club Update
Development
Services Director Jeff Kronschnabl reviewed the history of Code problems at 1590 Gulf Boulevard, the former Cabana Club Restaurant, which began with a complaint in July 1998. According
to inspections, the building is an Unsafe Building, according to Code. Staff has cited and notified building owners regarding work necessary to meet minimum codes. Currently, permits
have been applied for to address necessary repairs regarding Unsafe Code items.
Previously, two permits were pulled and work was begun. Some serious items were repaired or replaced,
including steel columns that support the decks west of the building. While the contractor on each prior permit did work, the entire project never was completed nor was the space made
usable. Since then, several parties have presented ideas and drawings for various uses. While each idea seemed logical, sincere, and permittable, none was pursued. The latest submittal
for a permit does not define use of the space and has zoning, fire, and building code issues that need to be satisfied. The Code allows options for the property, which need to be discussed
with the Planning Department.
On February 5, 2002, staff met with Belleview Biltmore Resort, LTD representatives about the current permit application. Staff informed the owners and
project manager that the City needs assurance that current permit work will be completed. The owners offered to post a $150,000 bond as guarantee that the work will be completed or
the money would be used to raze the structure. Staff has obtained bids for demolition of the building, pool, and all appurtenances and repair of the common wall.
In addition, Belleview
Biltmore representatives have agreed to address some neighboring resident concerns, such as security and pest control, and to meet with the neighborhood ownership association to inform
them of their plans.
In response to a question, Mr. Kronschnabl reviewed staff’s plan to monitor the repairs. In response to a question, the City Attorney said the performance bond would be called if work
is not completed. Mr. Kronschnabl said this project differs from earlier attempts as the City now has the plan in writing and a performance bond. The City Manager said staff still
may request spending more than $100,000 to raze the structure but recommended pursuing this approach now. It was stated many Sand Key residents are unhappy with the situation. In response
to a question, Mr. Kronschnabl said while the project to repair the exterior may be completed in less than six months, that amount of time was requested in case additional problems are
discovered. He said exterior renovations will begin as soon as permits are issued.
Other City Attorney Items
ITEM #24 – Res # 02-13 assessing a lien against 1000 North Fort Harrison
in the amount of $6,803.46 for the costs of demolition incurred in removing a dangerous structure without the consent of owner.
The City Attorney presented Resolution #02-13 and read it by title only. Commissioner Gray moved to pass and adopt Resolution #02-13 and authorize the appropriate officials to execute
same. The motion was duly seconded and upon roll call, the vote was:
"Ayes": Hart, Gray, Hamilton, Jonson, and Aungst.
"Nays": None.
ITEM #25 - City Attorney Items - None.
ITEM
#26 - City Manager Verbal Reports
Assistant City Manager Brumback reviewed efforts to repair the Cleveland Street railroad crossing, which began in July 2001. He is working with
FDOT (Florida Department of Transportation) and CSX Railroad and hopes the issues are resolved soon. The Cleveland Street crossing will be closed for 3 to 4 weeks. Conflicts with Spring
Break traffic are being avoided.
The City Manager said the City’s Hispanic Initiatives program is producing good results. It is important residents are aware of City efforts and
work with other organizations.
Ms. Goudeau reported FLC (Florida League of Cities) legislative action day is February 19-20, 2002. Commissioners Hart and Jonson plan to attend.
Further Commission lobbying efforts in Tallahassee will be determined.
Regarding Ms. Goudeau’s reference to the February 12, 2002 Special Work Session to review Commission policies,
consensus was to begin the meeting at 9:30 a.m. instead of 10:00 a.m.
Regarding Ms. Goudeau’s reference to a planned cell tower work session with industry representatives, consensus
was not to schedule it for April 1, 2002. It was felt the visioning sessions should have priority over cell towers.
ITEM #27 - Other Commission Action
Commissioner Gray reviewed
events associated with the visit from the delegation from Clearwater’s Sister City, Nagano, Japan.
The Commission complimented Commissioner Gray’s efforts as host.
Mayor Aungst
noted Commissioners had paid for their own meals when entertaining the Nagano delegation.
Commissioner Jonson requested an update on County billboard negotiations. The City Attorney
reported a public hearing is scheduled for February 12, 2002, regarding finalized negotiations with Lamar. The County has not released a draft regarding an agreement with a second firm.
The agreement with a third firm is in negotiation.
Commissioner Jonson said meetings associated with his appointment to a TBRPC (Tampa Bay Regional Planning Association) sub-committee will conflict with his attendance at PAC (Pension
Advisory Committee) meetings and requested a replacement be appointed after the March 12 election.
Commissioner Jonson reported on his visit to Gagne Wallpaper.
Commissioner Jonson
requested direction regarding an upcoming PSTA issue about loosening PSTA’s prohibition of issue oriented advertising on PSTA buses. Consensus was the Commission’s position is that
the policy remain as is.
Commissioner Jonson stated he and his wife celebrated their wedding on February 2, and are truly blessed by great friends and wonderful community. He presented
Commissioner Hamilton with a picture of Hoyt House, a bed and breakfast in the community where the Jonsons spent their honeymoon.
Commissioner Hamilton referenced the retirement of
Clearwater High School basketball coach Rudy Coffin, and recommended a public acknowledgment of Coach Coffin’s work.
Commissioner Hamilton wished luck to Commissioner Hart’s son
and the Tornado’s JV basketball team on their final game of a perfect season.
The Commission congratulated Commissioner Jonson on his recent marriage.
Mayor Aungst said he had
welcomed New York City firefighters on January 27, 2002, when they visited Clearwater and attractions due to the generosity of local businesses.
Mayor Aungst reported the grand opening
of the RCS Food Pantry at 700 Druid Road is at 9:00 a.m. on February 8, 2002.
Mayor Aungst said the Clearwater American & National Little Leagues kickoff is on February 23, 2002 at
Sid Lickton Field.
Mayor Aungst said MacDill Air Force Base General Hodges had telephoned regarding a planned press release, reporting cancellation of this year’s Air Show.
ITEM
#28 – Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 8:02 p.m.
______________________________
Mayor-Commissioner
ATTEST: ____________________________
City Clerk