03/16/2020Monday, March 16, 2020
9:00 AM
City of Clearwater
Main Library - Council Chambers
100 N. Osceola Avenue
Clearwater, FL 33755
Main Library - Council Chambers
Community Redevelopment Agency
Meeting Agenda
March 16, 2020Community Redevelopment Agency Meeting Agenda
1. Call To Order
2. Approval of Minutes
2.1 Approve the February 18, 2020 CRA Meeting Minutes 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 Amend the Clearwater Community Redevelopment Agency’s rules and
regulations.
4.2 Authorize the CRA Director to develop a grant agreement in the amount of
$500,000 to incentivize the construction of new rental housing as part of a
mixed-use development at 708 Chestnut Street.
4.3 Approve the first amendment to the Façade Grant for 808 Court Street
Shopping Center in the amount of $39,825, accept the façade preservation
easement, and authorize the appropriate officials to execute same.
4.4 Approve an Agreement between the Community Redevelopment Agency and
Amplify Clearwater, a Florida non-profit corporation, to produce and manage
Downtown Clearwater events in an amount not to exceed $40,000 through
Sept. 30, 2021 and authorize the appropriate officials to execute same.
5. Director's Report
6. Adjourn
Page 2 City of Clearwater Printed on 3/10/2020
Cover Memo
City of Clearwater Main Library - Council
Chambers
100 N. Osceola Avenue
Clearwater, FL 33755
File Number: ID#20-7542
Agenda Date: 3/16/2020 Status: Agenda ReadyVersion: 1
File Type: MinutesIn Control: Community Redevelopment Agency
Agenda Number: 2.1
SUBJECT/RECOMMENDATION:
Approve the February 18, 2020 CRA Meeting Minutes 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 3/10/2020
Community Redevelopment Agency Meeting Minutes February 18, 2020
Page 1
City of Clearwater
City of Clearwater
Main Library - Council Chambers
100 N. Osceola Avenue
Clearwater, FL 33755
Meeting Minutes
Tuesday, February 18, 2020
9:00 AM
Main Library - Council Chambers
Community Redevelopment Agency
Community Redevelopment Agency Meeting Minutes February 18, 2020
Page 2
City of Clearwater
Roll Call
Present 5 - Chair George N. Cretekos, Trustee Bob Cundiff, Trustee Hoyt
Hamilton, Trustee David Allbritton, and Trustee Jay Polglaze
Al so Presen t – William B. Horne II – City Manager, Micah Maxwell – Assistant City
Manager, Michael Delk - Assistant City Manager, Pamela K. Akin –
City Attorney, Rosem ar ie Call – City Clerk, Nicole Sprague – Deputy
City Clerk and Amanda Thompson – CRA Executive Director
To pro vi de continui ty fo r research, items are li sted in agend a order altho ugh not
necessarily disc ussed in that order.
Draft
1. Call to Order – Chair Cretekos
The meeting was called to order at 9:16 a.m. in Council Chambers at the
Main Library. 2. Approval of Minutes
2.1 Approve the January 13, 2020 CRA Meeting Minutes as submitted in written summation
by the City Clerk.
Trustee Allbritton moved to approve the January 13, 2020 CRA
Meeting Minutes 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 time limited CRA Food and Drink Grant Program for property owners to allow
for reimbursement of grant expenses during construction.
The CRA’s goal is to enhance downtown’s ability to serve as a restaurant
destination and to provide existing employees/residents in downtown more food
and drink options that are open on nights and weekends.
In October 2018, the Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) approved a
time-limited grant program for property owners to support the establishment of
Community Redevelopment Agency Meeting Minutes February 18, 2020
Page 3
City of Clearwater
new food and drink businesses that are open on nights and weekends in the
Downtown Core and Prospect Lake districts. The existing program requires
applicants to fund all building improvements and finish construction prior to
receiving grant funds. Currently, grants funds are released once the applicant
has received a Certificate of Occupancy and submitted receipts verifying
expenditures.
CRA staff is recommending modifying the grant program to allow the applicant
to be reimbursed for grant expenses after they have occurred, but prior to
receiving a Certificate of Occupancy (CO). Ten percent of the total grant funds
will be held until after a CO has been issued. Submission of receipts and/or
paid invoices will still be required to receive reimbursement. This will allow
applicants greater flexibility in financing large construction jobs.
APPROPRIATION CODE AND AMOUNT:
This program is funded through the Opportunity Fund 388-94893.
In response to questions, CRA Executive Director Amanda Thompson
said the grantee has signed a promissory note for the total cost; if the project
does not get the certificate of occupancy, the grantee will have to pay the
CRA all funds that have been reimbursed to them as part of the grant.
Assistant City Attorney Michael Fuino said if the grantee is unable to pay, the
CRA would sue on the promissory note. The grant program requires
additional security of a personal guarantee by one of the LLC members. If
the Trustees are not comfortable with each applicant's security, staff can
renegotiate that.
Trustee Cundiff moved to amend the time limited CRA Food and
Drink Grant Program for property owners to allow for
reimbursement of grant expenses during construction. The motion
was duly seconded and carried unanimously.
4.2 Approve a Loan to Grant Agreement with 949 Cleveland Street, LLC for the property at
943 Cleveland Street, in the amount of $187,632.50, for building improvements to
implement the CRA Food and Drink Grant Program and authorize the appropriate
officials to execute same.
At the October 29, 2018 Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) meeting,
the CRA Trustees approved a time limited, grant program for property owners
to support the establishment of new food and drink businesses that are open on
nights and weekends in the Downtown Core and Prospect Lake districts in the
Community Redevelopment Agency area.
Community Redevelopment Agency Meeting Minutes February 18, 2020
Page 4
City of Clearwater
On November 2, 2018, 949 Cleveland Street LLC submitted a pre-qualification
form with a list of building improvements for preliminary grant approval to
convert the existing, unfinished ground floor commercial space into a finished
space for use by food and drink tenants. Under this program, property owners
must commit, at a minimum, to matching the CRA’s grant funding, dollar for
dollar, for building improvements that will be maintained for a minimum of five
years. The owner must also maintain a lease with a business that serves food
and/or drinks on nights and weekends for a minimum of five years.
On September 30, 2019, 949 Cleveland Street LLC submitted a full application
to establish a coffee and dessert shop that will serve hot and cold drinks along
with a wide selection of desserts. The property owner has formed a new
company, Cleveland Street Market, LLC, that will operate the business. The
cafe will meet the grant required evening and weekend operating hours.
Pending approval, the applicant anticipates beginning construction in February
2020 and completing in September 2020. A full list of building improvements,
the lease and site plans are contained in the application. Of two bids, the lowest
bid estimates a total project cost of $375,265.00 for eligible improvements.
On October 24, 2019, the application was reviewed by an internal staff
committee that included the CRA Director, Planning Director, Building Official
and Assistant City Attorney according to the following criteria:
Consistency with the goals of the Downtown Redevelopment Plan.
Feasibility of the proposed scope of services and timeline.
Ability to provide an experience that does not exist in Downtown
presently.
Ability to meet the legal and financial requirements of the grant program.
The committee found that the application met the grant criteria and
recommends approval of loan to grant in the amount of $187,632.50. This site is
critical to serving existing residents and attracting new residents to apartment
developments in this area, in turn, generating a favorable market to encourage
new housing developments in the downtown core. The grant agreement
incorporates the property owner’s full application and financial documents to
secure the loan to grant agreement over a five-year period.
APPROPRIATION CODE AND AMOUNT:
Funds are available in CRA project 3887552-94893, Opportunity Fund
($81,800.82) and CRA Project 3887552-94714 Downtown Redevelopment
($105,831.68).
In response to questions, CRA Executive Director Amanda Thompson
said the grantee will have three different stores; the property owner has
several different arms in their development company. The owner will start
businesses at their mixed-used property and hire someone who has
expertise in a given area, such as a coffee shop, and other individuals to
run the company. Ms. Thompson said the owner will eventually sell off
the company or find a similar tenant. The increased foot traffic will make
Community Redevelopment Agency Meeting Minutes February 18, 2020
Page 5
City of Clearwater
the property more attractive to renters in the residential section, which will
lead to increased rental rates. Since their commercial rental rate is
currently zero, the project will establish comparison lease rates for the
commercial market. She said there is plenty of raw commercial spaces in
the Downtown's mixed use buildings because the current lease rates do
not support building out the spaces; the incentive will help improve the
market. Ms. Thompson said the proposed grant contemplates
improvements to the building which will remain beyond the tenant. The
grant funds will be provided on a reimbursement basis. If the tenant
does not last for the 5-year term, the owner has 6 months to find a new
food or drink tenant that is open on nights and weekends. The City
Attorney said the original owners of the Nolen were given additional funds
for the muck issue and $700,000 as an incentive to build the retail space;
the incentive funds were tied to the build-out of the retail space or lease of
the space. Ms. Thompson said the grant program requires the own er to
have a signed lease
Concerns were expressed that there is already a self-serve wine bar in
Downtown and an ice cream shop and that the owner would receive a lot
of grant funds because three grant applications were submitted for the
same property.
Owner representative Matthew McWilliams provided a PowerPoint
presentation. He said if the Trustees approve the request, the property
owner will hire managers and staff for the three proposed businesses.
In response to questions, Mr. McWilliams said the iPour will be one of the
booths in the marketplace and will take a lot of the wall space. The space
will have a shared kitchen for the beer and wine concept or other
micro-market vendors. Ms. Thompson said one of the key goals of the grant
program is to make these spaces occupiable by anything that is allowed
by Downtown zoning.
In response to a concern, Ms. Thompson said several buildings have
shared services, such as bathrooms. The CRA budgeted for this grant
program which has ended.
Trustee Allbritton moved to approve a Loan to Grant Agreement
with 949 Cleveland Street, LLC for the property at 943 Cleveland
Street, in the amount of $187,632.50, for building improvements to
implement the CRA Food and Drink Grant Program and authorize
the appropriate officials to execute same. The motion was duly
seconded and carried unanimously.
Community Redevelopment Agency Meeting Minutes February 18, 2020
Page 6
City of Clearwater
4.3 Approve a Loan to Grant Agreement with 949 Cleveland Street, LLC for the property at
1011 Cleveland Street, in the amount of $250,000, for building improvements to
implement the CRA Food and Drink Grant Program and authorize the appropriate
officials to execute same.
At the October 29, 2018 Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) meeting,
the CRA Trustees approved a time limited, grant program for property owners
to support the establishment of new food and drink businesses that are open on
nights and weekends in the Downtown Core and Prospect Lake districts in the
Community Redevelopment Agency area.
On November 2, 2018, 949 Cleveland Street LLC submitted a pre-qualification
form with a list of building improvements for preliminary grant approval to
convert the existing, unfinished ground floor commercial space into a finished
space for use by food and drink tenants. Under this program, property owners
must commit, at a minimum, to matching the CRA’s grant funding, dollar for
dollar, for building improvements that will be maintained for a minimum of five
years. The owner must also maintain a lease with a business that serves food
and/or drinks on nights and weekends for a minimum of five years.
On September 30, 2019, 949 Cleveland Street LLC submitted a full application
to establish a self-serve beer and wine bar with indoor and outdoor lounge
areas, including significant improvements to The Nolen’s existing outdoor plaza
and high-quality interior finishes. The property owner has formed a new
company, Cleveland Street Market, LLC, that will operate the business. The bar
will meet the grant required evening and weekend operating hours. Pending
approval, the applicant anticipates beginning construction in February 2020 and
completing in September 2020. A full list of building improvements, the lease
and site plans are contained in the application. Of two bids, the lowest bid
estimates a total project cost of $610,438.00 for eligible improvements.
On October 24, 2019, the application was reviewed by an internal staff
committee that included the CRA Director, Planning Director, Building Official
and Assistant City Attorney according to the following criteria:
Consistency with the goals of the Downtown Redevelopment Plan.
Feasibility of the proposed scope of services and timeline.
Ability to provide an experience that does not exist in Downtown
presently.
Ability to meet the legal and financial requirements of the grant program.
The committee found that the application met the grant criteria and
recommends approval of loan to grant in the amount of $250,000. This site is
critical to serving existing residents and attracting new residents to apartment
developments in this area, in turn, generating a favorable market to encourage
new housing developments in the downtown core. The grant agreement
incorporates the property owner’s full application and financial documents to
secure the loan to grant agreement over a five-year period.
Community Redevelopment Agency Meeting Minutes February 18, 2020
Page 7
City of Clearwater
APPROPRIATION CODE AND AMOUNT:
Funds are available in CRA project 3887552-94893, Opportunity Fund
($250,000).
Trustee Polglaze moved to approve a Loan to Grant Agreement with
949 Cleveland Street, LLC for the property at 1011 Cleveland Street,
in the amount of $250,000, for building improvements to implement
the CRA Food and Drink Grant Program and authorize the
appropriate officials to execute same. The motion was duly
seconded and carried unanimously.
4.4 Approve a Loan to Grant Agreement with 949 Cleveland Street, LLC for the properties at
1017, 1023 and 1029 Cleveland Street, in the amount of $250,000.00, for building
improvements to implement the CRA Food and Drink Grant Program and authorize the
appropriate officials to execute same.
At the October 29, 2018 Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) meeting,
the CRA Trustees approved a time limited, grant program for property owners
to support the establishment of new food and drink businesses that are open on
nights and weekends in the Downtown Core and Prospect Lake districts in the
Community Redevelopment Agency area.
On November 2, 2018, 949 Cleveland Street LLC submitted a pre-qualification
form with a list of building improvements for preliminary grant approval to
convert the existing, unfinished ground floor commercial space into a finished
space for use by food and drink tenants. Under this program, property owners
must commit, at a minimum, to matching the CRA’s grant funding, dollar for
dollar, for building improvements that will be maintained for a minimum of five
years. The owner must also maintain a lease with a business that serves food
and/or drinks on nights and weekends for a minimum of five years.
On September 30, 2019, 949 Cleveland Street LLC submitted a full application
to establish a “micro” market, food hall concept that will provide space for up to
8 vendors. Each vendor will have access to individual electrical and plumbing
hook-ups and a shared communal kitchen for preparation and storage of goods.
Patrons will have access to the lounge areas in the adjacent self-serve
beer/wine business. New restrooms will be constructed as part of this project.
The property owner has formed a new company, Cleveland Street Market, LLC,
that will operate the business. Each vendor will sub-lease space from the
Cleveland Street Market LLC. The market will meet the grant required evening
and weekend operating hours. Pending approval, the applicant anticipates
beginning construction in February 2020 and completing in September 2020. A
full list of building improvements, the lease and site plans are contained in the
Community Redevelopment Agency Meeting Minutes February 18, 2020
Page 8
City of Clearwater
application. Of two bids, the lowest bid estimates a total project cost of
$570,655.48 for eligible improvements.
On October 24, 2019, the application was reviewed by an internal staff
committee that included the CRA Director, Planning Director, Building Official
and Assistant City Attorney according to the following criteria:
Consistency with the goals of the Downtown Redevelopment Plan.
Feasibility of the proposed scope of services and timeline.
Ability to provide an experience that does not exist in Downtown
presently.
Ability to meet the legal and financial requirements of the grant program.
The committee found that the application met the grant criteria and
recommends approval of loan to grant in the amount of $250,000.00. This site is
critical to serving existing residents and attracting new residents to apartment
developments in this area, in turn, generating a favorable market to encourage
new housing developments in the downtown core. The grant agreement
incorporates the property owner’s full application and financial documents to
secure the loan to grant agreement over a five-year period.
APPROPRIATION CODE AND AMOUNT:
Funds are available in CRA project 3887552-94893, Opportunity Fund
($250,000).
CRA Executive Director Amanda Thompson said the Mercado will be a
pavilion and not a permanent building structure. The micro-market
concept is affordable space in the CRA that artists could rent.
In response to questions, Ms. Thompson said the space would be
affordable because it would not require an individual to rent out an entire
space. Owner representative Matthew McWilliams said the drawings for
the design development is in process; plumbing and electric has been
contemplated for each space. There will be a shared kitchen for the
vendors.
A concern was expressed that the owner will receive half of the money
needed to build out the space due to the multiple grant application s that
were submitted.
Trustee Cundiff moved to approve a Loan to Grant Agreement with
949 Cleveland Street, LLC for the properties at 1017, 1023 and 1029
Cleveland Street, in the amount of $250,000.00, for building
improvements to implement the CRA Food and Drink Grant Program
and authorize the appropriate officials to execute same. The motion
was duly seconded and carried with the following vote:
Community Redevelopment Agency Meeting Minutes February 18, 2020
Page 9
City of Clearwater
Ayes: 4 - Trustee Cundiff, Trustee Hamilton, Trustee Allbritton and Trustee
Polglaze
Nays: 1 - Chair Cretekos
4.5 Approve a Business Lease Contract between the Clearwater Community Redevelopment
Agency and the Clearwater Community Gardens, Inc. for a community garden at 1273
Grove Street, 1277 Grove Street and 20 North Betty Lane to establish a new lease for the
community garden and authorize the appropriate officials to execute same.
The purpose of this request is to enter into a lease with Clearwater Community
Gardens, Inc for a period of one year with a one-year renewal period. The
Clearwater Garden Club and the Clearwater Community Redevelopment
Agency entered into a three-year lease in 2015 for a community garden in the
Downtown Gateway neighborhood. The Clearwater Community Garden group
established and has maintained the community garden on Grove Street since
April 2015. The Clearwater Community Garden group has formed their own
501c3, the Clearwater Community Gardens, Inc and requested to enter into a
new lease with the CRA to serve as the lessee overseeing the community
garden property Staff is recommending approval of the new lease for one year
with a one-year renewal.
In response to a question, CRA Executive Director Amanda Thompson
said the lease includes a 30-day termination clause if the site is
redeveloped.
Trustee Hamilton moved to approve a Business Lease Contract
between the Clearwater Community Redevelopment Agency and
the Clearwater Community Gardens, Inc. for a community garden at
1273 Grove Street, 1277 Grove Street and 20 North Betty Lane to
establish a new lease for the community garden and authorize the
appropriate officials to execute same. The motion was duly
seconded and carried unanimously.
4.6 Approve a façade grant for 405 South Missouri Avenue in the amount of $76,375, accept
the façade preservation easement and authorize the appropria te officials to execute
same.
The Community Redevelopment Agency trustees approved amendments to the
Façade Improvement Grant program in April 2018. The amendments created a
new scoring system and the potential for greater investment from the CRA to
Community Redevelopment Agency Meeting Minutes February 18, 2020
Page 10
City of Clearwater
incentivize renovation of commercial properties in downtown. Façade
improvements further the goal of the Downtown Redevelopment Plan to create
a high-quality public realm. Eligible improvements are cosmetic and structural
changes to the front wall of a building including brick restoration, lighting,
entryways, windows, public art and signage that is attached to the façade.
Routine maintenance is not eligible for grant funding, nor improvements on
facades that are not adjacent to the public right of way. All improvements must
be compatible with the City’s zoning and design regulations.
405 South Missouri Avenue is the former property of Buds Electric and Motor
Services Inc. It was purchased by Joseph Clancy on October 31, 2018 to
establish a new restaurant, Philly Joe’s. The building is on the corner of South
Missouri Avenue and Santa Rosa Street which makes two sides of the building
eligible for grant funding.
The owner has removed the stucco panels that covered the original brick
building, reconfigured the building for restaurant usage, added a mural, and
provided parking spaces with improved landscape, an outdoor dining and new
signage.
The owner has already expended $100,000 to remove stucco around the
exterior of the building and added new doors and windows. The owner has
requested a façade grant to offset the costs of the remaining work including
new exterior doors, windows, brick restoration, landscaping, artwork, and
exterior lighting. The total cost of the additional exterior improvements is
$152,750.
The proposed project received 100 out of 100 total points as part of the grant
application review process. This score is eligible for a 50% match of the total
cost of the project for $76,375. In addition to matching the CRA’s financial
investment, the owner must grant a conservation easement to preserve and
maintain the façade for a minimum of five years. CRA staff recommends
funding at the full 100% match and acceptance of the conservation easement.
APPROPRIATION CODE AND AMOUNT:
Funds are available in CRA capital improvement project 3887552-99979,
Façade Program for this grant.
In response to questions, CRA Executive Director Amanda Thompson
said downtown zoning does not require parking for commercial
establishments. There is a surface parking lot that surrounds their patio
and on-street parking on the side street. The tentative opening is
scheduled within the next two weeks.
Trustee Cundiff moved to approve a façade grant for 405 South
Missouri Avenue in the amount of $76,375, accept the façade
preservation easement and authorize the appropriate officials to
Community Redevelopment Agency Meeting Minutes February 18, 2020
Page 11
City of Clearwater
execute same. The motion was duly seconded and carried
unanimously.
4.7 Discuss potential Letters of Interest for CRA-owned properties.
CRA Executive Director Amanda Thompson provided a PowerPoint
presentation.
In response to questions, Ms. Thompson said an RFP in the CRA is
limited to 30 days. A letter of interest may match what is included in an
RFP; the City may ask for housing projects but receive responses for an
art center. Staff may determine what the market is seeking based on the
letters of interest received. She said the new downtown zoning allows
many uses but the CRA must specify what is seeks. The CRA has the
ability to sell property at a fair value and does not have to sell to the
highest bidder. The CRA may extend the payment for land over time or
take the proceeds from the sale back into the property, which is an
additional source of funding. The 306 S. Washington Avenue site is
located in an Opportunity Zone and is perfect for an investor with capital
gains. Staff anticipates the community gardens at the 1250 Cleveland
Street site would remain onsite but shift on rooftop terraces or hanging off
the walls.
There was consensus to move forward with the call for letter of interest.
5. Director's Report
CRA Executive Director Amanda Thompson provided a PowerPoint
presentation and presented a video of the 3-D tree wrapping projections.
In response to questions, Ms. Thompson said staff will research the cost
to own the projection equipment versus renting the equipment. Staff
would come back with a recommendation.
There was consensus for staff to move forward with determining if the
projection equipment should be rented or owned.
Community Redevelopment Agency Meeting Minutes February 18, 2020
Page 12
City of Clearwater
6. Adjourn
The meeting was adjourned at 10:36 a.m.
Chair
Community Redevelopment Agency
Attest
City Clerk
Cover Memo
City of Clearwater Main Library - Council
Chambers
100 N. Osceola Avenue
Clearwater, FL 33755
File Number: ID#20-7538
Agenda Date: 3/16/2020 Status: Agenda ReadyVersion: 1
File Type: Action ItemIn Control: Community Redevelopment Agency
Agenda Number: 4.1
SUBJECT/RECOMMENDATION:
Amend the Clearwater Community Redevelopment Agency’s rules and regulations.
SUMMARY:
The Clearwater Community Redevelopment Agency was established as an independent
division within the City of Clearwater in 2016. It was formerly located in the Economic
Development and Housing division. In response to this reorganization and recent changes in
state legislation governing CRA’s, revised rules and regulations have been prepared for
adoption. New language has been added to recognize required ethics training for CRA trustees,
establish new purchasing procedures, financial reporting requirements and allowable
expenditures. The updated rules establish a process for disposition of CRA owned properties
and policies for the execution of documents and resolutions. The proposed rules will establish
by adoption, what the CRA has followed in practice. The rules follow state and county CRA
reporting requirements.
Page 1 City of Clearwater Printed on 3/10/2020
Rule 1 - Membership
The membership of the Community Redevelopment Agency of the City of Clearwater, Florida
(“Agency”), shall be composed of the five members of the Clearwater City Commission Council
and two ex-officio non-voting members of the Downtown Development Board. A quorum for the
transaction of business by the Agency shall consist of three voting members. Any action to be
approved will need a majority vote of the voting membership. The Mayor shall serve as Chair and
the Vice-Mayor as Vice Chair of the Agency. In case of the Chair’s absence, the Vice Chair shall
assume the responsibilities of the Chair. If both are absent, the senior Agency member in years of
service shall preside. The Chair shall run the meeting and preserve order. The Chair shall recognize
all members who seek the floor under correct procedure. Members of the public shall be allowed
to speak.
Rule 2 – Executive Director
The Agency shall approve the appointment of Executive Director by a majority vote whose
presence is required at all Agency meetings. The Executive Director of the Agency shall be the
Assistant City Manager and report directly to the City Manager, or the City Manager’s designee,
and to the Agency and make recommendations as to how CRA programs and funding should be
executed. The Executive Director shall establish the staffing of the office which comports with the
Agency’s approved annual operating budget and the Agency’s approved interlocal agreement with
the City of Clearwater (“City”). The Executive Director shall be hired and removed by the City
Manager with the concurrence of a majority of the Agency.
The Executive Director shall have the following powers and responsibilities:
(a) Facilitate the direction of the Agency’s members by preparing long- and short-range
redevelopment plans and implementing those plans after Agency approval.
(b) Facilitate the direction of the Agency’s members by preparing Agency programs and
implementing those programs after Agency approval.
(c) Facilitate the direction of the Agency’s members by disposing Agency-owned real property
in conformity with § 163.380, Florida Statutes and Rule 24.
(d) Create an annual operating budget and all other annual reports the Agency is responsible
for compiling under Part III, Chapter 163, Florida Statutes and Chapter 189, Florida
Statutes, and transmit those reports to the responsible state and local agencies.
(e) Process Agency agenda items in conformity with Rule 11.
(f) Create and nurture professional working relationships with state and local agencies, local
businesses, and the public.
Rule 3 – Recording Minutes
The City Clerk shall provide minutes of the proceedings of each Agency meeting and shall furnish
copies of the minutes of each regularly scheduled meeting to the Chair and to each Agency member
at least seven days prior to the next regular meeting. Such minutes shall stand confirmed at the
regular meeting of the Agency without the reading thereof in open meeting unless some inaccuracy
or error be pointed out by some member of the agency present, and in such event, an appropriate
correction shall be made. Upon request, the Executive Director will ask the City Clerk to provide
any member with transcribed excerpts of tapes of Agency meetings.
Rule 4 – Furnishing Minutes
A copy of the minutes of each agency meeting and of each resolution when passed shall be
furnished by the City Clerk to the City Manager.
Rule 5 – Scheduling Meetings
The Agency shall conduct business on a regular basis as scheduled by the Executive Director.
These meetings shall normally be conducted in advance of the City Commission Council Work
Session. Special Meetings of the Agency shall be called from time to time by the Chair, Executive
Director, or any voting member. Not less the 48 hours public notice for any special meetings shall
be provided. Except for items advertised for public hearings, items may be removed from the
agenda and additional items may be added; this shall not apply to special meetings. The agenda
may be re-ordered.
Rule 6 – Appointment of Committees
The Agency shall appoint any committees or advisory boards as may be required for successful
execution of Agency business. The Agency shall appoint an Agency member to the Main Street
Joint Venture for a term of two years.
Rule 7 – Conflict of Interest
According to applicable provision of state law, no voting member shall voluntarily or involuntarily
acquire any personal interest, director or indirect, in any community redeve lopment project, or in
any contract or proposed contract in connection with any community redevelopment project.
Should any member involuntarily acquire any interest in a community redevelopment project, that
interest shall be immediately disclosed in writing. If any member presently owns or controls or
owned or controlled within the preceding two years any interest, direct or indirect, any property
included or planned to be included in ac community redevelopment project, that interest shall
immediately be disclosed in writing, and such disclosure shall be entered upon the minutes of the
Agency. Any voting member disclosing such interest shall not participate in any decision of the
Agency affecting such property.
Rule 8 – Attendance
The City official whose regular attendance shall be required during the sittings of the Agency shall
be the City Manager, the City Attorney and Executive Director or their substitutes; but all or any
officers of the City shall be bound to attend any meetings upon request of any voting member of
the Agency.
Rule 9 – Public Access
No citizen, except those determined to be out of order and subject to removal by the Chief of Police
or the Chief’s designee, shall be excluded from any meeting of the Agency whether it be regularly
scheduled or specially called.
Rule 10 - Reconsideration
Any voting member of the Agency who voted with the prevailing side may move a reconsideration
of any action of the whole Agency provided that the motion be made at the same meeting at which
the action was taken. A motion to reconsider shall be in order at any time (during the meeting at
which the action was taken) except when a motion of some other subject is pending. No motion to
reconsider shall be made more than once on any subject or matter at the same meeting.
Rule 11 – Agenda
The Executive Director, City Attorney, City Manager or any member may agenda an item. Any
citizen may request to be on the agenda, even though staff has assured petitioner that adverse action
may result. The Chair cannot depart from the prescribed agenda, but the agency may do so by a
majority vote or by consensus in response to a suggestion from the Chair.
Rule 12 – Suspension of Rules
These rules, or any of them, with the exception of provision of state law, may be amended or
temporally suspended at any meeting of the Agency by a majority vote. These rules are for the
efficient and orderly conduct of the business of the Agency only, and no violation shall invalidate
any action of the Agency when approved by the majority votes.
Rule 13 – Order of Proceedings
When a motion is made or seconded, it shall be stated by the Chair before any debate shall be in
order. The person making the motion is entitled to the floor first for debate. No one is entitled to
the floor a second time on the same motion as long as any other member who has not spoken on
the issue desires the floor. Motions and any amendments can be withdrawn or modified by the
maker at any time prior to the chair stating the question on the motion; after that time, the
permission of the Agency majority must be obtained. The chair cannot close debate as long as any
member who has not exhausted the right to debate desires the floor except by a majority vote. A
tie vote shall constitute a continuance to the next regularly scheduled meeting.
Rule 14 – Material Publication
The City Clerk shall provide material to the press and to the public as part of the City Commission
Council Work Session package in the City Clerk’s office. Reports shall be made available in the
Clerk’s office for the public to check out and study at their leisure.
Rule 15 – Public Records Access
All mail to the Agency arriving at City Hall Offices and received pursuant to the Public Records
law or in connection with the transaction of official business by the agency shall be copied and
provided to all members and to the press with the following exceptions:
(a) Mail from governmental agencies, addressed to the Chair which is clearly intended for
administrative action will be delivered to the Executive Director with informational copies
to all Agency members as deemed necessary.
(b) Anonymous letters will not be distributed but shall be retained in compliance with Public
Records Law.
(c) Only the agendas will be circulated. Items of considerable length (such as petitions) will
not be copied, but instead a memorandum will be distributed announcing the availability
of the addressee to comply with the Public Records law.
(d) The Executive Director will be responsible for seeing that the mail addressed to the Agency
members is properly answered or placed on the agenda.
Rule 16 – Majority Vote
As used in these rules, “majority vote” means the concurring vote of a majority of the voting
membership of the Agency.
Rule 17 – Rules of Conduct
Except as provided herein, or as may be required by Florida law, the rules of the Agency for the
conduct of its business shall be as provided in the most recent edition of Robert’s Rules of Order.
Rule 18 – Ethics Training
Each member of the Agency must complete four (4) hours of ethics training each calendar year
which addresses, at a minimum, s. 8, Art. II of the State Constitution, the Code of Ethics for public
officers and Employees, and the public records and public meetings laws of this State. This
requirement can be completed through completion of a continuing legal education class or other
continuing professional education class, seminar, or presentation that contains the required subject
material.
Rule 19 – Publication of Boundaries
The Agency shall publish on its website digital maps that depict the geographic boundaries and
total acreage of the Agency. If any changes are made to the boundaries or total acreage, the Agency
shall post updated maps within 60 days after the date such changes are made.
Rule 20 – Annual Reporting
The Agency shall file an annual report with the City Council and with Pinellas County Board of
County Commissioners no later than March 31st of each year. The report must include the
following information:
(a) The most recent complete audit report of the redevelopment trust fund as required by §
163.387(8), Fla. Stat. and as outlined in Rule 21.
(b) The performance data for each plan authorized administered, or overseen by the Agency
as of December 31st of the reporting year, including the:
1. Total number of projects started and completed and the estimated cost for each
project.
2. Total expenditures from the redevelopment trust fund.
3. Original assessed real property values within the Agency’s area of authority as
of the day the agency was created.
4. Total assessed real property values of property within the boundaries of the
community Agency as of January 1st of the reporting year.
5. Total amount expended for affordable housing for low-income and middle-
income residents.
(c) A summary indicating to what extent, if any, the Agency has achieved the goals set out in
its community redevelopment plan.
(d) The Annual Budget of the Agency as outlined under Rule 21.
The report shall also be published on the Agency’s website.
Rule 21 – Annual Financial Audit
The Agency shall provide for a financial audit each fiscal year by an independent certified public
accountant or firm conducted in accordance with rules for audits of local governments adopted by
the Auditor General pursuant to § 163.387(8)(a-d), Fla. Stat.
The report must:
(a) Describe the amount and source of deposits into, and the amount and purpose of
withdrawals from, the trust fund during such fiscal year and the amount of principal and
interest paid during such year on any indebtedness to which increment revenues are
pledged and the remaining amount of such indebtedness.
(b) Include financial statements identifying the assets, liabilities, income, and operating
expenses of the community redevelopment agency as of the end of such fiscal year.
(c) Include a finding by the auditor as to whether the Agency is in compliance with subsections
(6) and (7) of § 163.387, Fla. Stat.
This audit report must accompany the annual financial report submitted by the City to the
Department of Financial Services as provided in § 218.32, Fla. Stat., regardless of whether the
Agency reports separately under that section.
The Agency shall also provide a copy of the audit report to each taxing authority.
Rule 22 – Annual Budget
The Agency shall produce and adopt an annual budget by resolution outlining the funds to be used
in furtherance of the adopted community redevelopment plan. The format for this budget is
outlined in § 189.016(3), Fla. Stat.
The tentative budget will be posted on the Agency’s website at least 2 days prior to the budget
hearing and must remain on the website at least 45 days. The final adopted budget will be posted
on the Agency’s website within 30 days of adoption and will remain on the website for at least two
years.
The Agency may amend the budget at any time within a fiscal year or within 60 days following
the end of the fiscal year as follows:
(a) Appropriations for expenditures within a fund may be decreased or increased by motion
recorded in the minutes if the total appropriations of the fund do not increase.
(b) The Agency may establish procedures by which the designated budget manager, who is the
City’s Finance Director or the Finance Director’s designee, may authorize certain
amendments if the total appropriations of the fund do not increase.
(c) If a budget amendment is required for a purpose not specifically authorized in paragraph
(a) or paragraph (b), the budget amendment must be adopted by resolution. The adopted
amendment must be posted on the official website of the special district within 5 days after
adoption and must remain on the website for at least 2 years.
The budget shall be submitted to the Board of County Commissioners of Pinellas County within
10 days of its adoption, any amendments to the budget must be submitted to the Board within 10
days after the adoption date of the amended budget.
Rule 23 – Expenditures
Monies in the redevelopment trust fund may be expended for undertakings of the Agency as
described in the community redevelopment plan only pursuant to the annual budget adopted by
the Agency and only for those purposes found in § 163.387(6)(c), Fla. Stat.
Rule 24 – Disposition of Agency-Owned Real Property
Disposition of real property by the Agency for redevelopment purposes, whether by sale, lease, or
otherwise, must comport with § 163.380, Florida Statutes. Therefore, prior to any disposition of
Agency-owned real property, the Executive Director shall schedule an agenda item recommending
how the property should be disposed and requesting direction from the Agency’s members
regarding disposition of the property. After such direction is given, the Executive Director shall
promptly issue a request for proposals and qualifying proposals shall be reviewed by a review
committee consisting of the Executive Director and any other Agency or City employee deemed
necessary for consideration purposes. The Executive Director is thereafter authorized to begin
negotiations with the most qualified applicant and must bring any proposed disposition agreement
to the Agency for the members’ review and approval at the next scheduled Agency meeting.
However, if the review committee decides that there is no qualified applicant, the Executive
Director is authorized to re-issue the request for proposals and begin the proposal process anew.
Prior to scheduling the agenda item requesting direction from the Agency’s members regarding
disposition of any Agency-owned real property, the Executive Director may solicit letters of
interest from qualified developers.
Rule 25 – Purchasing Procedures
The City shall function as the purchasing agent for the Agency. All purchases by the Agency shall
be conducted in accordance with the City’s purchasing code and the City’s purchasing policies.
Rule 26 – Amendments of These Rules
Amendments to these Rules shall require the affirmative vote of at least a majority vote of the
Agency’s members.
Rule 27 – Execution of Documents
All documents executed by the Agency shall be executed by the Chair or the Executive Director,
with an attestation by the City Clerk, or the City Clerk’s designee, and a review for legal
sufficiency and form by the City Attorney, or the City Attorney’s designee.
Rule 28 – Execution of Resolutions
All resolutions executed by the Agency shall be executed by the Chair, with an attestation by the
City Clerk, or the City Clerk’s designee, and a review for legal sufficiency and form by the City
Attorney, or the City Attorney’s designee.
Cover Memo
City of Clearwater Main Library - Council
Chambers
100 N. Osceola Avenue
Clearwater, FL 33755
File Number: ID#20-7540
Agenda Date: 3/16/2020 Status: Agenda ReadyVersion: 1
File Type: Action ItemIn Control: Community Redevelopment Agency
Agenda Number: 4.2
SUBJECT/RECOMMENDATION:
Authorize the CRA Director to develop a grant agreement in the amount of $500,000 to
incentivize the construction of new rental housing as part of a mixed-use development at 708
Chestnut Street.
SUMMARY:
The CRA received an incentive request from Chestnut and Myrtle, LLC for $750,000 to
renovate an existing blighted building at 708 Chestnut Street to create a mixed-use
development with 5,425 square feet of commercial space and up to 17 apartment units. The
applicant has completed a preliminary zoning and permit review process but has not received a
building permit. The proposed project would result in a significant renovation of a dilapidated
building on a highly visible corner in downtown. It is a textbook example of a project that can
take advantage of the downtown Opportunity Zone tax credits program.
The construction of new rental housing is a high priority in the downtown plan and CRA
strategy. The proposed project meets several policies and objectives in the 2018 Clearwater
Downtown Redevelopment Plan including:
Policy 18: The design of all projects in Downtown shall incorporate pedestrian-scale elements
that create and maintain an inviting pedestrian environment
Policy 5: Buildings and developments should be people oriented
Policy 6: Support shared parking for mixed uses
Objective 4A: Encourage redevelopment that contains a variety of building forms and styles
Objective 1F: Allow for a variety of residential densities and housing types to provide for a range
of affordability and mix of incomes consistent with the Character Districts
Objective 1G: Continue to utilize a variety of incentives to encourage the construction of new
residential uses to locate Downtown
The current economy does not support the construction of new housing without public subsidy.
Increased downtown residents are critical to supporting local businesses and providing
additional foot traffic on nights and weekends. Without this incentive, the applicant will renovate
the existing commercial space and may construct up to 4 housing units.
Based on available funding, an incentive of $500,000 is recommended. Staff is seeking
authorization for the CRA Director to develop a grant agreement to bring to the Trustees for
approval that would include the final number of housing units, a project timeline, a payment
schedule and other items pertaining to the management of the grant.
APPROPRIATION CODE AND AMOUNT:
Page 1 City of Clearwater Printed on 3/10/2020
File Number: ID#20-7540
Funds are available in the Downtown Redevelopment fund 388-94714 for this grant.
Page 2 City of Clearwater Printed on 3/10/2020
Cover Memo
City of Clearwater Main Library - Council
Chambers
100 N. Osceola Avenue
Clearwater, FL 33755
File Number: ID#20-7536
Agenda Date: 3/16/2020 Status: Agenda ReadyVersion: 1
File Type: Action ItemIn Control: Community Redevelopment Agency
Agenda Number: 4.3
SUBJECT/RECOMMENDATION:
Approve the first amendment to the Façade Grant for 808 Court Street Shopping Center in the
amount of $39,825, accept the façade preservation easement, and authorize the appropriate
officials to execute same.
SUMMARY:
The Community Redevelopment Agency trustees approved amendments to the Façade
Improvement Grant program in April 2018. Facade improvements further the goal of the
Downtown Redevelopment Plan to create a high-quality public realm. Eligible improvements
are cosmetic and structural changes to the front wall of a building including brick restoration,
lighting, entryways, windows, public art and signage that is attached to the facade. Routine
maintenance is not eligible for grant funding, nor improvements on facades that are not
adjacent to the public right of way. All improvements must be compatible with the City’s zoning
and design regulations.
888 Business, LLC. property owner Sherry Lung received approval for a facade grant to make
improvements to the 808 Court Street Shopping Center in June 2019. The original request
received 100 out of 100 total points due to its highly visible location on Court Street, the poor
condition of the existing building façade and the extent of the proposed improvements. The
original application estimated the total project costs at $50,000, which made the project eligible
for a $25,000 grant. This grant amount can be approved by the CRA Director and a façade
grant was approved. No reimbursement for the June 2019 grant has been requested to date.
The original project scope was expanded to include additional improvements that increased the
total project cost from $50,000 to $79,650. The owner has requested an increase in the façade
grant amount from $25,000 to a total of $39,825. Based on the work completed by the owner to
date, eligible grant expenses include demolition of the old facia, stucco bands, exterior light
fixtures, canopy and signage. The storefront window framing system has been reconstructed.
New LED canopy lighting fixtures, signage, a parapet wall and stucco siding have been
installed. The building has been painted as well. All changes comply with the downtown design
standards.
In addition to matching the CRA’s financial investment, the owner must grant a conservation
easement to preserve and maintain the facade for a minimum of five years. CRA staff
recommends approving the grant amendment to bring the total grant amount to $39,825 and
acceptance of the façade preservation easement.
Page 1 City of Clearwater Printed on 3/10/2020
File Number: ID#20-7536
APPROPRIATION CODE AND AMOUNT:
Funds are available in CRA Project code 3887552- 99979 Façade Program.
Page 2 City of Clearwater Printed on 3/10/2020
Cover Memo
City of Clearwater Main Library - Council
Chambers
100 N. Osceola Avenue
Clearwater, FL 33755
File Number: ID#20-7537
Agenda Date: 3/16/2020 Status: Agenda ReadyVersion: 1
File Type: Action ItemIn Control: Community Redevelopment Agency
Agenda Number: 4.4
SUBJECT/RECOMMENDATION:
Approve an Agreement between the Community Redevelopment Agency and Amplify
Clearwater, a Florida non-profit corporation, to produce and manage Downtown Clearwater
events in an amount not to exceed $40,000 through Sept. 30, 2021 and authorize the
appropriate officials to execute same.
SUMMARY:
Special events, of all sizes, are an integral part in creating a welcoming atmosphere in
downtown. The 2018 Clearwater Downtown Redevelopment Plan principles call for downtown
to be a vibrant place for public expression, to enable the arts and to create a more socially
resilient community by connecting neighborhoods to downtown. The CRA has demonstrated
that downtown can transition to a lively, arts-infused place through its programming at Second
Century Studios, Holiday Extravaganza and support for events like the Clearwater Downtown
Partnership’s craft beer festival and Blast Fridays. While there have been successes, staff has
learned that smaller businesses and individuals have a difficult time navigating the City’s
special event permitting process and paying for city required public safety costs. This results in
lost opportunities for new ideas, new audiences and additional events to occur on a regular
basis.
It is important to maintain a consistent schedule of downtown events, large and small, to
generate foot traffic to support local businesses, to increase the quality of life for downtown
residents and employees and to invite in new audiences to experience downtown. Once
construction on Imagine Clearwater and Streetscape Phase III begins, the CRA will need to
increase its marketing efforts to remind our residents that downtown is still “open for business.”
To build on our successes and address current challenges with producing special events, the
CRA proposes to contract with Amplify Clearwater to manage ten events in Downtown
Clearwater in fiscal year 2020-2021 including:
·1 large-scale event (1,000+ people)
·2 medium-scale events (100-1,000 people)
·3 small-scale events (20-100 people)
·4 arts events (10-1,000 people)
Amplify will use its considerable resources, network and expertise to source and manage
events in downtown with various partners and merchants to activate and program public
spaces. Amplify will coordinate with the CRA to develop a process for soliciting and evaluating
event ideas, provide staff to complete required paperwork for the city of Clearwater’s Special
Event permitting process and provide a basic level of marketing. The event producer will still
maintain responsibility for staffing the event, paying for the talent and other production costs.
Page 1 City of Clearwater Printed on 3/10/2020
File Number: ID#20-7537
The CRA will work with Parks and Recreation to request co-sponsorship of downtown events
to offset public safety costs outside of this grant request.
The proposed grant meets Objective 1H: Maintain, activate and program parks, plazas and
recreational areas and Objective 3F: Promote the visual and performing arts in the downtown
plan. It aligns with the CRA’s adopted strategy of creating and sharing positive stories about
downtown. This grant will serve to incentivize activity in downtown, helping to foster a vibrant
and active public realm, to create recreation and entertainment opportunities, to promote the
visual and performing arts, and to support the community in creating a downtown they love.
APPROPRIATION CODE AND AMOUNT:
Funds for this contract are available in professional services 1889311-530100
Page 2 City of Clearwater Printed on 3/10/2020
Grant Funding between CRA and Amplify
1
CLEARWATER COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY GRANT FUNDING
AGREEMENT
Downtown Event Management
This Grant Funding Agreement is made and entered into this _______ day of _______________
2020, between the COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY, hereinafter the CRA, and
AMPLIFY, INC., a Florida non-profit corporation, hereinafter referred to as “Amplify.”
WHEREAS, one of the purposes of the 2018 Clearwater Downtown Redevelopment Plan
(the Plan) is to “ encourage a vibrant and active public realm, recreation and entertainment
opportunities, and support the community and neighborhoods;” and
WHEREAS, an objective of the Plan is to promote the visual and performing arts and
maintain and activate public spaces within the downtown; and
WHEREAS, the CRA and Amplify desire to continue, expand and improve events
throughout the CRA to promote Clearwater as a destination; and
WHEREAS, The downtown events: 1) support existing retail business viability by creating
consistent food traffic to create dining and retail demand for businesses in Downtown Clearwater;
and, 2) increase the quality of life for downtown residents and employees; 3) provide opportunities
to connect neighborhoods to Downtown Clearwater through attendance at events; and, 4)
support ULI Panel recommendation to create “……a lively Downtown”; and
WHEREAS, the CRA has determined that is necessary to provide a $40,000 grant to
partially underwrite the management of a 2020-2021 season of events.
NOW, THEREFORE, be it resolved:
.
ARTICLE I. TERM
The term of this agreement shall be for a period of eighteen (18) months commencing on April 1,
2020 and continuing through September 30, 2021 (the "Termination Date"), unless earlier
terminated under the terms of this agreement.
ARTICLE II. RESPONSIBILITIES OF AMPLIFY
1) Services to be Provided. Amplify shall manage and promote 10 events to promote
Downtown Clearwater as more fully described in Exhibit A. Such events shall be
coordinated with the CRA to ensure that the programming is consistent with the intent of
the grant.
2) Scheduled Reports of Activities. Amplify shall furnish the CRA a financial report and
accounting of the use of the CRA funds quarterly and at the end of the 2020-2021 season.
The financial report is to set forth the total cost of operations provided, and the detailed
account of costs funded in part by the CRA.
3) Use and Disposition of Funds Received. Amplify shall deposit the CRA grant funds in a
dedicated, segregated account to be used for downtown events only. Funds received by
Grant Funding between CRA and Amplify
2
Amplify from the CRA shall be used towards the payment of expenses attendant to
downtown events only.
4) Creation, Use and Maintenances of Financial Records.
a) Creation of Records. Amplify shall create, maintain and make accessible to
authorized CRA representatives such financial and accounting records, books,
documents, policies, practices and procedures necessary to reflect fully the
financial activities of Amplify. Such records shall be available and accessible at all
times for inspection, review or audit by authorized CRA personnel, and shall be
made available in accordance with Chapter 119, Florida Statutes (Public Records)
and other applicable law.
b) Use of Records. Amplify shall produce such reports and analyses that may be
required by the CRA to document the proper and prudent stewardship and use of
the monies received through this agreement.
c) Maintenance of Records. All records created hereby are to be retained and
maintained for a period not less than five (5) years from the close of the applicable
fiscal year.
5) Non-discrimination. Notwithstanding any other provision of this agreement, Amplify for
itself, agents and representatives, as part of the consideration for this agreement does
covenant and agree that:
a) No Exclusion from Use. No person shall be excluded from participation in, denied
the benefits of, or otherwise be subjected to discrimination in the operation of this
program on the grounds of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, age or national
origin.
b) No Exclusion from Hire. In the management, operation, or provision of the
program activities authorized and enabled by this agreement, no person shall be
excluded from participation in or denied the benefits of or otherwise be subject to
discrimination on the grounds of, or otherwise be subjected to discrimination on
the grounds of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, age, or national origin, except
that age may be taken into consideration to the extent that the age of an employee
is a bona fide occupational qualification, as permitted by law.
c) Breach of Non-discrimination Covenants. In the event of conclusive evidence
of a breach of any of the above non-discrimination covenants, the CRA shall have
the right to terminate this agreement immediately.
6) Liability and Indemnification.
Amplify shall act as an independent contractor and shall defend, indemnify, and hold
harmless the CRA, its officers, agents, and employees from and against any and all
claims of loss, liability and damages of whatever nature arising from the negligence or
willful misconduct of Amplify, to persons and property, including, without limiting the
generality of the foregoing, death of any person and loss of the use of any property,
except claims also arising from the negligence or willful misconduct of the CRA or
CRA’s agents or employees. Nothing herein shall be construed as consent by the CRA
to be sued by third parties, or as a waiver or modification of the provisions or limits of
Section 768.28, Florida Statutes or the Doctrine of Sovereign Immunity.
Grant Funding between CRA and Amplify
3
7) Compliance with Laws. Amplify shall comply with all applicable federal, state, county
and local laws, rules and regulations. If it is ever determined that this Agreement violates
any federal, state, county or local laws, rules or regulations as a result of the actions of
Amplify, then Amplify shall comply in a timely manner or CRA may terminate.
ARTICLE III. RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE CRA
1) GRANT. The CRA agrees to provide funding on a quarterly basis in the amount of $10,000
per quarter beginning on July 1, 2020. Payment will be made within thirty (30) days of
receiving an invoice. The total grant amount shall not exceed $40,000. Payments will be
made to Amplify to fund the costs incurred in providing the activities authorized by this
agreement as provided in Exhibit A hereto.
2) Coordination. The CRA will meet with the Amplify on a monthly basis to coordinate
promotion of events and approve the final selection of events receiving management
services and city co-sponsorship.
ARTICLE IV. DISCLAIMER OF WARRANTIES
This Agreement constitutes the entire Agreement of the parties on the subject hereof and may
not be changed, modified or discharged except by written Amendment duly executed by both
parties. No representations or warranties by either party shall be binding unless expressed herein
or in a duly executed Amendment hereof.
ARTICLE V. TERMINATION
1) For Cause. Failure to adhere to any of the provisions of this Agreement in material respect
shall constitute cause for termination. Either party may terminate this Agreement for cause by
giving the other party thirty (30) days notice of termination. If the default is not cured within
the thirty (30) day period following receipt of notice, this Agreement shall terminate on the
thirty-first (31st) day.
2) Disposition of Fund Monies. In the event of termination due to the fault of Amplify, monies
provided to Amplify by CRA but not expended in accordance with this Agreement shall be
returned to the CRA within 30 days of demand.
ARTICLE VI. NOTICE
Any notice required or permitted to be given by the provisions of this Agreement shall be
conclusively deemed to have been received by a party hereto on the date it is hand delivered to
such party at the address indicated below (or at such other address as such party shall specify to
the other party in writing), or if sent by registered or certified mail (postage prepaid), on the fi fth
(5th) business day after the day on which such notice is mailed and properly addressed.
1) If to Amplify addressed to:
AMPLIFY
Grant Funding between CRA and Amplify
4
2) If to CRA, addressed to: Amanda Thompson, Director, CRA
P. O. Box 4748
Clearwater, FL 33758-4748
With copies to:
Michael Fuino, CRA Attorney
P. O. Box 4748
Clearwater, FL 33758-4748
ARTICLE VII. EFFECTIVE DATE
The effective date of this Agreement shall be as of the date written below.
ARTICLE VIII. ASSIGNABILITY
Neither this Agreement nor any of the rights, interests or obligations hereunder shall be assigned
by any of the parties hereto (whether by operation of law or otherwise) without the prior written
consent of the other parties. Subject to the preceding sentence, this Agreement will be binding
upon, inure to the benefit of and be enforceable by the parties and their respective successors
and assigns.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have set their hands and seals this _______ day of
_________________, 2020.
Countersigned: Community Redevelopment Agency
____________________________ ___________________________________
George N. Cretekos Amanda Thompson
Chairman Director
Approved as to form: Attest:
____________________________ ___________________________________
Michael Fuino Rosemarie Call
CRA Attorney City Clerk
AMPLIFY.
By: _______________________________
Amanda Payne
President & CEO
Grant Funding between CRA and Amplify
5
Exhibit A
Amplify
1. Will coordinate with the CRA to develop a process for soliciting and evaluating event ideas
2. Will provide staff to complete all the required paperwork and meetings for the City’s Special
Event permitting process for a minimum of 10 events as described under Scope
3. Will provide the following promotion for downtown events:
o Write and distribute a Press Release and handle media relations
o Create image and content for posting on all social media channels
o Utilize up to $1000 of the grant budget for paid advertising at Amplify’s discretion
o Utilize up to $2000 of the grant budget for printed collateral (flyers, posters, etc.) at
Amplify’s discretion
4. Will follow all special event policies
5. Will provide a way for event producers to solicit for volunteers through Amplify’s or other
networks
6. Will use the following language on all event promotions – “(NAME of event) is brought to you by
(NAME OF Producer) in partnership with Amplify and sponsored by the CRA/City.”
7. Will meet with the CRA on a monthly basis to review event requests and select which events to
coordinate and receive city sponsorship
CRA
The Community Redevelopment Agency would help solicit event ideas. The CRA would manage the
contract with the event company and assist in promoting events in downtown through its channels. The
city/CRA would be listed as a partner/sponsor for events. The CRA will retain final approval of all events
that receive Amplify’s assistance.
City Parks and Recreation Special Events Department
Will help solicit event ideas
Will provide co-sponsorship to subsidize city costs for up to 10 events as described in the Scope if and
where applicable
Will provide all the information needed to successfully permit an event in downtown
Event Producers
Any person or entity can be an event producer including the CRA, City, Amplify. Producers can be local
businesses or out of town entities. Producers will be listed on any event permit applications and are
responsible for paying for all the production costs, finding talent, materials, staffing the event and
paying any costs that City co-sponsorship cannot cover and will be held liable. They are responsible for
any promotion/marketing beyond what the minimum that Amplify and CRA will provide.
Scope: 10 events per year (see activity every season in downtown)
Grant Funding between CRA and Amplify
6
• 1 large-scale event (1,000+ people)
o Entails:
▪ Street closure
▪ Regional draw for attendees
▪ Long-term planning
o Ex: Beer festival, food truck festival
• 3 small-scale events (20-100 people)
o Entails:
▪ No street closure
▪ Public/private space
▪ Smaller draw
o Ex: Yoga in the Park, Movies in the Park, Pub Crawl
• 2 medium-scale/one-off events (100-1,000 people)
o Entails:
▪ Street closure
▪ Public space
▪ Large draw (but targeted promotion)
o Ex: Taste of Clearwater, Biergarden
• 4 arts events (10-1,000 people)
o Entails:
▪ Street closure
▪ Public/private space
▪ Niche audience
▪ Ongoing promotion (may be experiential with no set event time)
o Ex: Daf & Dream Fashion Show, Art Walk