10/14/2020 City Council Meeting Minutes October 14, 2020
City of Clearwater
Main Library- Council Chambers
100 N. Osceola Avenue
Clearwater, FL 33755
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Meeting Minutes
Wednesday, October 14, 2020
6:00 PM
Main Library - Council Chambers
City Council
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City of Clearwater
City Council Meeting Minutes October 14, 2020
To ensure public safety and comply with the Governor's Safer at Home order in response to the
COVID-19 virus, the Clearwater City Council will hold a public meeting on Thursday, October 14, 2020
at 6:00 p.m. using communications media technology.
Pursuant to Executive Order No. 20-69, issued by the Office of Governor Ron DeSantis on March 20,
2020, municipalities may conduct meetings of their governing boards without having a quorum of its
members present physically or at any specific location, and utilizing communications media technology
such as telephonic or video conferencing, as provided by Section 120.54(5)(b)2, Florida Statutes.
Roll Call
Present: 5 - Mayor Frank Hibbard, Councilmember Hoyt Hamilton, Vice Mayor
David Allbritton, Councilmember Mark Bunker and Councilmember
Kathleen Beckman
Also Present: William B. Horne II — City Manager, Micah Maxwell —Assistant City
Manager, Michael Delk—Assistant City Manager, Pamela K. Akin City
Attorney, Rosemarie Call — City Clerk, and Nicole Sprague — Deputy
City Clerk.
To provide continuity for research, items are listed in agenda order although not
necessarily discussed in that order.
1. Call to Order— Mayor Hibbard
The meeting was called to order at 6:00 p.m. using communications
media technology.
2. Invocation — Mr. Duncan Kovar from Suncoast Humanists
3. Pledge of Allegiance
4. Special recognitions and Presentations (Proclamations, service awards, or other
special recognitions. Presentations by governmental agencies or groups providing
formal updates to Council will be limited to ten minutes.) - Given
4.1 Domestic Violence Awareness Month Proclamation, October 2020 - Kirk Ray Smith, RCS
President and CEO
4.2 Red Ribbon Week Proclamation, October 23-31, 2020 - Clearwater Neighborhood Family
Center
5. Approval of Minutes
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City Council Meeting Minutes October 14, 2020
5.1 Approve the minutes of the October 1, 2020 City Council Meeting as submitted in written
summation by the City Clerk.
Councilmember Hamilton moved to approve the minutes of the
October 1, 2020 City Council Meeting as submitted in written
summation by the City Clerk. The motion was duly seconded and
carried unanimously.
6. Citizens to be heard re items not on the agenda
Nick Fritsch said, if passed, the referendum regarding The Landings will
improve the quality of life and job opportunities for Clearwater families.
He thanked Council for pausing the library renovations.
Lisa Lanza opposed The Landings referendum, thanked the City for the
helpful information on the Neighborhoods Services Division's webpage,
and encouraged the Neighborhoods Coalition to elect Officers who live in
a homeowners association.
7. Consent Agenda — Approved as submitted, less Items 7.1, 7.4 and 7.7
7.1 Authorize an amendment to the original agreement with HR and A Advisors, of New York,
NY, in an amount not to exceed $35,000 for the development of a multi-parcel Request for
Proposal (RFP) document as well as expense related to the review of submitted
proposals and authorize the appropriate officials to execute same. (consent)
See below.
7.2 Approve the First Amendment to Agreement Number 106-2020 between Florida Housing
Finance Corporation and the City of Clearwater for use of Coronavirus Relief Funds and
authorize the appropriate officials to execute same. (consent)
7.3 Approve a loan in the amount of$880,000 to SP Clearwater WFH LLC, using HOME
Investment Partnership Program funding for the development of property at 306 South
Washington Avenue and authorize the appropriate officials to execute documents
required to affect closing. (consent)
7.4 Approve settlement of workers' compensation claim 19000138 for payment of$325,000
inclusive of attorney fees and costs for Scott Fowler with a general release of all claims
and authorize the appropriate officials to execute same. (consent)
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7.5 Approve Amendment No. 2 for the Emergency Medical Services ALS First Responder
Agreement between Pinellas County and City of Clearwater to add Lifeguard BLS First
Responder Services to the Clearwater Fire District and authorize the appropriate officials
to execute same. (consent)
7.6 Award a contract to Paramount Painting and Services, Inc. of Tampa, Florida, per
Invitation to Bid 20-0036-EN, in the amount of$109,969.75, which includes a 10%
contingency, to perform structural concrete repairs and painting at Spectrum Field, and
authorize the appropriate officials to execute same. (consent)
7.7 Approve an Interlocal Agreement (IA) between the City of Clearwater (City) and the Town
of Belleair (Belleair) to provide slope mowing services for the Town of Belleair and
authorize the appropriate officials to execute same. (consent)
See below.
7.8 Reappoint Patrick E. Adamson to the Board of Trustees, Clearwater Police
Supplementary Pension Plan, with a term to expire October 31, 2024. (consent)
7.9 Approve acceptance of University of North Florida Training and Services Institute, Inc.,
d/b/a Institute of Police Technology and Management (IPTM), High Visibility Education
(HVE) and Enforcement Campaign for Pedestrian and Bicycle Safety Grant Award in the
amount of$26,882 for police overtime and authorize the appropriate officials to execute
same. (consent)
7.10Accept a United States Department of Justice, Office of Justice Programs, JAG Local:
Eligible Allocation Amounts $25,000 or More 2020 grant award in the amount of$39,296
for Axon Signal Vehicle equipment and authorize the appropriate officials to execute
same. (consent)
7.11Approve Fiscal Year 2021 purchases of miscellaneous library materials from multiple
sources in the amount not to exceed $694,000, pursuant to Clearwater Code of
Ordinances, Section 2.564 (1)(b) Sole Source, (1)(c) Small Dollar, (1)(d) Other
Government Entities Bids and Quotes, and authorize the appropriate officials to execute
same. (consent)
7.12Approve the purchase of HVAC replacement and repair parts, for an annual not to
exceed amount of$450,000.00 for Fiscal Year 2021, to vendors as listed, in accordance
with Clearwater Code of Ordinances Section 2.564(1)(d) Other Government Entities Bids
and (1)(c) Small Dollar Purchases, and authorize the appropriate officials to execute
same. (consent)
7.13Approve a purchase order to Pinellas County Solid Waste for an operating expenditure of
$4,300,000 for the disposal of solid waste at the Pinellas County waste-to-energy
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City Council Meeting Minutes October 14, 2020
plant/landfill for the period October 1, 2020 through September 30, 2021 as provided in
the city's Code of Ordinances, Section 2.564 (1) (d), Services provided by Other
Governmental Entities and authorize the appropriate officials to execute the same.
(consent)
7.14Approve a Purchase Order to Communications International of Vero Beach, FL in the
amount of$181,805.38 for the maintenance and repair of the city-wide two-way radio
communication system and equipment in accordance with Sec. 2.564(1) (b), Clearwater
Code of Ordinances - Sole Source and authorize the appropriate officials to execute
same. (consent)
Councilmember Hamilton moved to approve the Consent Agenda,
less items 7.1, 7.4 and 7.7, and authorize the appropriate officials to
execute same. The motion was duly seconded and carried
unanimously.
7.1 Authorize an amendment to the original agreement with HR and A Advisors, of New York,
NY, in an amount not to exceed $35,000 for the development of a multi-parcel Request for
Proposal (RFP) document as well as expense related to the review of submitted
proposals and authorize the appropriate officials to execute same. (consent)
As a result of Request for Proposal 04-16, HR&A Advisors (HR&A) was
awarded the contract for the Bluff/Waterfront Master Plan which was authorized
by Council on April 21, 2016 in the amount of$378,000.00.
In August 2016, Council approved an amendment to the agreement adding
additional services to include data collection, analysis and preparation of a
memorandum that identifies specific downtown sites for an aerial transit
terminal in the amount of$60,000.00.
In June of 2019, the City of Clearwater contracted with HR&A for an update of
the economic and market analysis which focused on the development of the
Harborview site Request for Proposals, negotiation of development proposals,
and assisting with the evaluation of proformas for development options in the
amount of$100,000.
In January 2020, Council approved an amendment for the development of a
Request for Expression of Interest (REFI) for the bluff properties in the amount
of$19,500.00.
In June 2020, the City Manager approved an increase for travel expenses in the
amount of$3,293.65. Per the agreement, these fees were additional expenses
not included in the cost of services.
As a result of the RFEI responses, the City is now ready to move forward with a
final solicitation for requests for proposals for bluff properties. The scope of this
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solicitation has been expanded from that originally conceived in the original
scope of work. Rather than the Harborview site only, the City will seek one or
more respondents for one or more of the bluff properties in concert. This will
include direct solicitation of those contacted through the REFI process as well
as additional firms who have expressed interest in the development
opportunities of the downtown Clearwater waterfront.
With this amendment the total project cost will be $595,793.65.
APPROPRIATION CODE AND AMOUNT:
Funds are available in capital improvement project ENGF1800013, Imagine
Clearwater, to fund this agreement.
One individual questioned the parcels included in the RFP.
It was stated that the parcels included in the RFP are the city hall site, the
former Harborview site and the old CMA parcel. The purpose of the RFP
is to get different development concepts and to pick the best one for
referendum.
Assistant City Manager Michael Delk said there is a portion of the old
parking lot that is included in the Harborview site. The area is suitable for
mixed use, which could include a public-private partnership for some
parking.
In response to questions, the City Attorney said the CMA property does
not require a referendum to lease or sale, or otherwise convey.
Councilmember Hamilton moved to authorize an amendment to the
original agreement with HR and A Advisors, of New York, NY, in an
amount not to exceed $35,000 for the development of a multi-parcel
Request for Proposal (RFP) document as well as expense related to
the review of submitted proposals and authorize the appropriate
officials to execute same. The motion was duly seconded and
carried unanimously.
7.4 Approve settlement of workers' compensation claim 19000138 for payment of$325,000
inclusive of attorney fees and costs for Scott Fowler with a general release of all claims
and authorize the appropriate officials to execute same. (consent)
Mr. Fowler was an active duty police officer with the Clearwater Police
Department as of December 16, 2002. On November 17, 2019, he sustained a
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cardiac event which resulted in his inability to fully return to work, and thus he was
relegated to his current light duty work during his rehabilitation and treatment.
The City has spent approximately $110,000 for his treatment and disability
to-date. The City faces potential future payments of$150,000 to $200,000 for
treatment of his condition and complications which could arise. His remaining
lifetime disability payments could reach $830,000 to $1.3 million as a result of
his current condition. As a result, based on his life expectancy the City's
exposure is projected to be $980,000 to $1.5 million in future medical care and
lost wages.
Mediation was held September 23, 2020, which resulted in a settlement of
$325,000, contingent on Council approval.
The Risk Management Division; the outside attorney for the City of Clearwater,
Banker Lopez Gassler, P.A.; and the City's Claims Committee recommend
approval.
Funding for the payment of this settlement is available in the budget for claims
expense in the Central Insurance Fund.
APPROPRIATION CODE AND AMOUNT:
5907590-545800 $325,000
One individual expressed concerns with payments associated with
workman's compensation.
It was stated that the City is self-insured which means that the City does
not insure everything and build-up reserves to take on the liabilities. For
example, if an individual owns their home and does not hold a mortgage,
the individual may choose to self-insure and repair or rebuild the home if
damaged by a storm or other event. The City does have higher levels of
insurance that would kick in if something happened and was considered
catastrophic.
Councilmember Hamilton moved to approve settlement of workers'
compensation claim 19000138 for payment of $325,000 inclusive of
attorney fees and costs for Scott Fowler with a general release of all
claims and authorize the appropriate officials to execute same. The
motion was duly seconded and carried unanimously.
7.7 Approve an Interlocal Agreement (IA) between the City of Clearwater (City) and the Town
of Belleair (Belleair) to provide slope mowing services for the Town of Belleair and
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authorize the appropriate officials to execute same. (consent)
The Town of Belleair approached the City to assist their Parks and Recreation
Department in slope mowing the scenic bluff that is located on the western side
of their town. They do not have the necessary equipment needed to maintain
this bluff.
The City Parks and Recreation Department has a slope mower that is used
almost daily to maintain the slopes around various lakes, ditches, and steep
areas in parks. However, during certain times of the year and on weekends the
slope mower is not in use and can be used to help Belleair mow their bluff twice
a year.
Belleair will reimburse the City for the time needed to slope mow the bluff at a
regular rate of$1,280.21 per 8-hour day or$160 an hour on weekdays and
$1,584.21 or $198 an hour on weekends. This amount covers the cost of the
operator as well as the overhead costs of the slope mower. Costs will be
evaluated every year and modified as needed to cover any cost increases.
Belleair may request additional slope mowing during the year at the same rate
as above. City slope mowing responsibilities take priority over Belleair.
One individual spoke in opposition.
Councilmember Hamilton moved to approve an Interlocal
Agreement (IA) between the City of Clearwater (City) and the Town
of Belleair (Belleair) to provide slope mowing services for the Town
of Belleair and authorize the appropriate officials to execute same.
The motion was duly seconded and carried unanimously.
Public Hearings - Not before 6:00 PM
8. Administrative Public Hearings
8.1 Approve the Second Substantial Amendment to the City of Clearwater's 2019-2020
Annual Action Plan to reallocate existing funding and to budget for additional funding
provided by the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development to
address needs resulting from the COVID-19 Emergency.
In response to the Coronavirus Pandemic (COVID-19) the United States
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Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has notified the City of
Clearwater that it will receive an allocation of$858,968 of Community
Development Block Grant Program - Coronavirus Response funds (CDBG-CV)
to be used to prevent, prepare for, and respond to COVID-19. This allocation is
associated with the third tranche of funding authorized by the Coronavirus Aid,
Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act), Public Law 116-136, which
was signed by President Trump on March 27, 2020, to respond to the growing
effects of this historic public health crisis.
The City of Clearwater's federal Annual Action Plan details the funding strategy
for the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and HOME Investment
Partnerships (HOME) programs each year. The Annual Action Plan implements
a jurisdiction's multi-year Consolidated Plan and is developed through
significant citizen participation, analysis, and planning. A first Substantial
Amendment to the City's 2019 Annual Action Plan (AAP) was approved by the
City Council on May 7, 2020 to incorporate $492,592 from the first tranche of
CDBG-CV funding.
The first Amendment to the 2019-2020 AAP allocated the first tranche of
CDBG-CV funds and reprogrammed existing funds to address COVID-19
impacts. Reprogrammed funds included deducting $300,000 of unencumbered
funds from affordable housing programs to fund an emergency rent and
mortgage assistance program. Now that other funding is available to fund a
Rent, Mortgage and Utilities Assistance (RMU) Program, the HOME funds will
be reprogrammed back to affordable housing programs. The remaining
CDBG-CV funds will be distributed through three categories:
Residential RMU Assistance: ED&H will continue to administer a program to
distribute funds for unpaid housing expenses to qualifying residents whose
incomes have been affected by the pandemic. Additional CARES Act funds are
also available for this program through a partnership with the Florida Housing
Finance Corporation.
Public Services: For Program Years 2019-2020 and 2020-2021 and the
CDBG-CV allocation, HUD has eliminated the requirement to spend no more
than 15% of the respective allocation on Public Services. The proposed
amendment budgets for expenditures in excess of the 15% cap for Public
Services that mitigate or respond to impacts arising from the pandemic.
Program Administration: HUD regulations provide for up to 20% of CDBG-CV to
be used for costs associated with administering these programs.
The city's General fund is not impacted by the proposed amendment. The
proposed Second Substantial Amendment is summarized below:
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Funding Source - Project Name Current Change Proposed
CDBG-CV - Business Assistance Program $394,074 -392,074 $2,000
CDBG-CV - Rent/Mortgage/Utilities Assistance $0 +924,458 $924,458
CDBG-CV - Public Services $0 +154,791 $154,791
CDBG-CV -Admin $98,518+171,793 $270,311
CDBG-CV - Project Total $492,592+858,968* $1,351,560
*New CDBG-CV allocation under third tranche of CARES Act funding
HOME - RMU Assistance $300,000 -300,000 $0
HOME - Multi-Family New Construction $819,001 +150,000 $969,001
HOME - Owner Occupied Land Acquisition $100,000 +100,000 $200,000
HOME - Owner Occupied New Construction$560,000 +50,000 $610,000
Note: HOME fund balances shown do not represent the City's entire HOME
budget, only those line items affected by reprogrammed funds.
One individual spoke in support.
Councilmember Hamilton moved to Approve the Second
Substantial Amendment to the City of Clearwater's 2019-2020
Annual Action Plan to reallocate existing funding and to budget for
additional funding provided by the United States Department of
Housing and Urban Development to address needs resulting from
the COVID-19 Emergency. The motion was duly seconded and
carried unanimously.
8.2 Approve the annexations, initial Future Land Use Map designation of Residential Low
(RL) and initial Zoning Atlas designation of Low Medium Density Residential (LMDR)
District for 1468 Carolyn Lane and 1824 West Drive, and pass Ordinances 9399-20,
9400-20 and 9401-20 on first reading. (ANX2020-06007, ANX2020-07009)
These voluntary annexation petitions involve 0.376-acres of property consisting
of two parcels of land both occupied by single-family dwellings. The parcels are
located on the north side of Carolyn Lane approximately 330 feet west of North
Highland Avenue and on the west side of West Drive approximately 410 feet
north of Greenlea Drive. The applicants are requesting annexation in order to
receive sanitary sewer and solid waste service from the City. The properties are
contiguous to existing city limits in at least one direction. It is proposed that the
properties be assigned a Future Land Use Map designation of Residential Low
(RL) and a Zoning Atlas designation of Low Medium Density Residential
(LMDR).
The Planning and Development Department determined that the proposed
annexations are consistent with the provisions of Clearwater Community
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Development Code Section 4-604.E as follows:
• The properties currently receive water service from the City. Collection
of solid waste will be provided to the properties by the City. The closest
sanitary sewer line to 1468 Carolyn Lane is located in an easement
along the north property line, and the closest sanitary sewer line to 1824
West Drive is located in the West Drive right-of-way. The owners of
1468 Carolyn Lane are aware of the sewer impact and assessment fees
that must be paid in full prior to connection and of the additional costs to
extend city sewer service to the property, and the owner of 1824 West
Drive has paid all sewer impact and assessment fees in full and has
been connected to the City sewer system. The properties are located
within Police District II and service will be administered through the
district headquarters located at 645 Pierce Street. Fire and emergency
medical services will be provided to this property by Station #51 located
at 1712 Overbrook Avenue. The City has adequate capacity to serve
these properties with sanitary sewer, solid waste, police, fire and EMS
service. The proposed annexations will not have an adverse effect on
public facilities and their levels of service; and
• The proposed annexations are consistent with and promote the following
objectives and policy of the Clearwater Comprehensive Plan:
Objective A.6.4 Due to the built-out character of the City of
Clearwater, compact urban development within the urban
service area shall be promoted through application of the
Clearwater Community Development Code.
Objective A.7.2 Diversify and expand the City's tax base through
the annexation of a variety of land uses located within the
Clearwater Planning Area.
Policy A.7.2.3 Continue to process voluntary annexations for
single-family residential properties upon request.
• The proposed Residential Low (RL) Future Land Use Map category is
consistent with the current Countywide Plan designation of the
properties. This designation primarily permits residential uses at a
density of 5 units per acre. The proposed zoning district to be assigned
to the properties is Low Medium Density Residential (LMDR). The use
of the subject properties is consistent with the uses allowed in the
District and the properties exceed the District's minimum dimensional
requirements. The proposed annexations are therefore consistent with
the Countywide Plan and the City's Comprehensive Plan and
Community Development Code; and
• The properties proposed for annexation are contiguous to existing city
limits in at least one direction. Therefore, the annexations are consistent
with Florida Statutes Chapter 171.044.
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Councilmember Hamilton moved to approve the annexations, initial
Future Land Use Map designation of Residential Low (RL) and initial
Zoning Atlas designation of Low Medium Density Residential
(LMDR) District for 1468 Carolyn Lane and 1824 West Drive. The
motion was duly seconded and carried unanimously.
Ordinance 9399-20 was presented and read by title only.
Councilmember Hamilton moved to pass Ordinance 9399-20 on first
reading. The motion was duly seconded and upon roll call, the vote
was:
Ayes: 5 - Mayor Hibbard, Councilmember Hamilton, Vice Mayor Allbritton,
Councilmember Bunker and Councilmember Beckman
Ordinance 9400-20 was presented and read by title only.
Councilmember Hamilton moved to pass Ordinance 9400-20 on first
reading. The motion was duly seconded and upon roll call, the vote
was:
Ayes: 5 - Mayor Hibbard, Councilmember Hamilton, Vice Mayor Allbritton,
Councilmember Bunker and Councilmember Beckman
Ordinance 9401-20 was presented and read by title only.
Councilmember Hamilton moved to pass Ordinance 9401-20 on first
reading. The motion was duly seconded and upon roll call, the vote
was:
Ayes: 5 - Mayor Hibbard, Councilmember Hamilton, Vice Mayor Allbritton,
Councilmember Bunker and Councilmember Beckman
8.3 Approve the annexation, initial Future Land Use Map designation of Residential Urban
(RU) and initial Zoning Atlas designation of Low Medium Density Residential (LMDR)
District for 3142 San Bernadino Street, and pass Ordinances 9402-20, 9403-20, and
9404-20 on first reading. (ANX2020-06008)
This voluntary annexation petition involves a 0.21-acre property consisting of
one parcel of land occupied by a single-family dwelling. The property is located
on the north side of San Bernadino Street, approximately 600 feet east of
McMullen Booth Road. The applicants are requesting annexation in order to
receive sanitary sewer and solid waste service from the City. The property is
located within an enclave and is contiguous to existing city boundaries to the
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east, west and south. It is proposed that the property be assigned a Future
Land Use Map designation of Residential Urban (RU) and a Zoning Atlas
designation of Low Medium Density Residential (LMDR).
The Planning and Development Department determined that the proposed
annexation is consistent with the provisions of Community Development Code
Section 4-604.E as follows:
• The property currently receives water service from the City of
Clearwater. The closest sanitary sewer line is located in the adjacent
San Bernadino right-of-way. The applicants have paid the City's sewer
impact and assessment fees and are aware of the additional costs to
extend city sewer service to this property. Collection of solid waste will
be provided by the City of Clearwater. The property is located within
Police District III and service will be administered through the district
headquarters located at 2851 N. McMullen Booth Road. Fire and
emergency medical services will be provided to this property by Station
#49 located at 565 Sky Harbor Drive. The City has adequate capacity to
serve this property with solid waste, police, fire and EMS service. The
proposed annexation will not have an adverse effect on public facilities
and their levels of service; and
• The proposed annexation is consistent with and promotes the following
objectives and policy of the Clearwater Comprehensive Plan:
Objective A.6.4 Due to the built-out character of the City of
Clearwater, compact urban development within the urban
service area shall be promoted through application of the
Clearwater Community Development Code.
Objective A.7.2 Diversify and expand the City's tax base through
the annexation of a variety of land uses located within the
Clearwater Planning Area.
Policy A.7.2.3 Continue to process voluntary annexations for
single-family residential properties upon request.
• The proposed Residential Urban (RU) Future Land Use Map category is
consistent with the current Countywide Plan designation of the property.
This designation primarily permits residential uses at a density of 7.5
units per acre. The proposed zoning district to be assigned to the
property is the Low Medium Density Residential (LMDR) District. The
use of the subject property is consistent with the uses allowed in the
District and the property exceeds the District's minimum dimensional
requirements. The proposed annexation is therefore consistent with the
Countywide Plan and the City's Comprehensive Plan and Community
Development Code; and
• The property proposed for annexation is contiguous to existing City
boundaries to the east, west and south; therefore, the annexation is
consistent with Florida Statutes Section 171.044.
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One individual questioned if there were plans to increase staffing due to
the annexation.
It was stated that properties being annexed are typically surrounded by
other homes within Clearwater city limits or are trying to get off septic
tanks and connect to the city sewer system.
The City Manager said staff evaluates the City's ability to support the
annexation as part of the application process.
Councilmember Hamilton moved to approve the annexation, initial
Future Land Use Map designation of Residential Urban (RU) and
initial Zoning Atlas designation of Low Medium Density Residential
(LMDR) District for 3142 San Bernadino Street. The motion was duly
seconded and carried unanimously.
Ordinance 9402-20 was presented and read by title only.
Councilmember Hamilton moved to pass Ordinance 9402-20 on first
reading. The motion was duly seconded and upon roll call, the vote
was:
Ayes: 5 - Mayor Hibbard, Councilmember Hamilton, Vice Mayor Allbritton,
Councilmember Bunker and Councilmember Beckman
Ordinance 9403-20 was presented and read by title only.
Councilmember Hamilton moved to pass Ordinance 9403-20 on first
reading. The motion was duly seconded and upon roll call, the vote
was:
Ayes: 5 - Mayor Hibbard, Councilmember Hamilton, Vice Mayor Allbritton,
Councilmember Bunker and Councilmember Beckman
Ordinance 9404-20 was presented and read by title only.
Councilmember Hamilton moved to pass Ordinance 9404-20 on first
reading. The motion was duly seconded and upon roll call, the vote
was:
Ayes: 5 - Mayor Hibbard, Councilmember Hamilton, Vice Mayor Allbritton,
Councilmember Bunker and Councilmember Beckman
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9. Second Readings - Public Hearing
9.1 Adopt Ordinance 9412-20 on second reading, vacating a platted utility easement
described as the East 10 feet of the West 81.75 feet of Lot 7, Green Field Subdivision,
according to the plat thereof, as recorded in Plat Book 31, Page 28 of the Public Records
of Pinellas County, Florida.
Ordinance 9412-20 was presented and read by title only.
Councilmember Hamilton moved to adopt Ordinance 9412-20 on
second and final reading. The motion was duly seconded and upon
roll call, the vote was:
Ayes: 5 - Mayor Hibbard, Councilmember Hamilton, Vice Mayor Allbritton,
Councilmember Bunker and Councilmember Beckman
10. City Manager Reports
10.1 Find that certain areas of the North Greenwood study area are, together, a blighted area
as defined in the Community Redevelopment Act of 1969 and that there is a need for a
Community Redevelopment Agency to carry out community redevelopment and adopt
Resolution 20-52.
Resolution 20-52 establishes the boundary areas for the North Greenwood
Community Redevelopment Area, finds and declares the area as blighted as
defined by F. S. Section 163.340(8) and that there is a need for a Community
Redevelopment Agency to carry out community redevelopment.
The resolution also requests that Pinellas County Board of County
Commissioners (BCC) delegate to the City Council (Council) all authority and
powers conferred upon the County through The Community Redevelopment Act
of 1969 for the North Greenwood Community Redevelopment Area. Delegation
of such authority by BCC will allow Council to then create a Community
Redevelopment Agency. Additionally, the resolution requests that BCC
establish a tax increment financing district and a redevelopment trust fund
within the North Greenwood Community Redevelopment Area.
Finally, the resolution requests that the City's administration prepare a
redevelopment plan for the North Greenwood Community Redevelopment Area.
Background
In December 2019, members of the Clearwater Urban Leadership Coalition
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(CULC) and city staff came together to discuss the CULC's efforts and interest
in establishing a Community Redevelopment Area (CRA) in the northern portion
of the city including the North Greenwood community and surrounding areas.
In February 2020, the City engaged Wade Trim, Inc. to conduct a Findings of
Necessity Study in accordance with Florida Statutes Section 163.335 and
163.340.
In the following months through September 2020, CULC members engaged
individuals, businesses, and community groups and leaders to inform and seek
support for the establishment of a CRA.
North Greenwood Area Finding of Necessity Study
The North Greenwood Area Finding of Necessity Study (Study) area is
comprised of six subareas identified as 1) Downtown (limited to Old Bay
Character District), 2) Non Low-Mod Area, 3) North Fort Harrison/Osceola, 4)
North Greenwood Extension, 5) North Greenwood Core, and 6) North Osceola.
The Study was conducted to identify and determine whether the necessary
conditions (slum, blight, and/or a shortage of affordable housing) are present
and meet the statutory requirements of establishing a Community
Redevelopment Area (CRA) in any 1 or more subareas.
The analysis of the 6 subareas focused on data that support the finding of slum
or blighted conditions. The following 10 statutorily-required topics of analysis for
each subarea were compiled and analyzed:
1. Poverty
2. Household Income
3. Median Home Value
4. Housing Vacancy
5. Housing Affordability
6. Housing Condition
7. Housing Crowding
8. Crime and Fire/EMS Calls for Service
9. Code Enforcement Activity
10. Taxable Values
Per Florida Statute (Part III, Chapter 163), a study area must have a minimum of
2 of the 10 conditions present to be considered for inclusion in a CRA. The
Study determined the necessary conditions are present in 5 of 6 subareas. The
consultant initially recommended inclusion of 2 subareas (North Greenwood
Core and North Fort Harrison/Osceola), noting that signs of distress and blight
are becoming increasingly evident as other parts of the city prosper. Public
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City Council Meeting Minutes October 14, 2020
intervention is needed in conjunction with private sector participation to treat the
negative influences and foster a healthier social and economic environment.
In rank order, the subareas showed evidence of the number of conditions
present:
1. North Greenwood Core (9)
2. North Fort Harrison/Osceola (8)
3. Downtown (Old Bay) (7)
4. Non Low-Mod Area (5)
5. North Greenwood Extension (4)
6. North Osceola (1)
In recognition of the Downtown (Old Bay) subarea as a largely commercial
district, and therefore a unique opportunity for economic growth and
stabilization, staff requested the consultant analyze the 3 subareas as a single,
unified area. The Addendum provided in the North Greenwood Area Finding of
Necessity Study identifies 3 specific major findings consistent with Section
163.340(8), Florida Statues, for the unified study area:
1. The crime rate is disproportionately higher in the unified study area
compared to the citywide crime rate.
2. The Fire/EMS call rate is disproportionately higher in the unified study area
compared to the citywide Fire/EMS call rate.
3. The percentage of code violations within the unified study area is
disproportionately greater than the relative size of the combined study area.
Additionally, the unified study area also exhibits a higher prevalence (compared
to the city overall) of poverty, households spending 35% or more of household
income on housing costs, housing with substandard conditions, and household
income and median home values are significantly lower.
Staff Recommendation
Based upon the conclusions of the Study (and Addendum), and the public
outreach and support provided by CULC, staff has determined that it is
necessary, appropriate, proper and timely that a CRA is created in the North
Greenwood Community as described in Resolution 20-52 and recommends
adoption thereof.
Next Steps
Upon adoption, city staff will transmit the Resolution to Pinellas County Board of
County Commissioners seeking authorization to create the North Greenwood
Community Redevelopment Agency, and the creation of the North Greenwood
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City Council Meeting Minutes October 14, 2020
Community Redevelopment Plan (Plan). Staff will return to Council with the
Plan for approval and will then seek the same from BCC. Additionally, staff will
seek approval to establish the Redevelopment Trust Fund and set the property
tax base.
Economic Development and Housing Assistant Director Chuck Lane
and Community Urban Leadership Coalition Executive Director Gloria
Campbell provided a PowerPoint presentation.
One individual spoke in support.
Discussion ensued with comments made that this is the first step in the
journey and that the request has been a unified and coordinated
community effort.
Councilmember Hamilton moved to find that certain areas of the
North Greenwood study area are, together, a blighted area as
defined in the Community Redevelopment Act of 1969 and that there
is a need for a Community Redevelopment Agency to carry out
community redevelopment. The motion was duly seconded and
carried unanimously.
Resolution 20-52 was presented and read by title only.
Councilmember Hamilton moved to adopt Resolution 20-52. The
motion was duly seconded and upon roll call, the vote was:
Ayes: 5 - Mayor Hibbard, Councilmember Hamilton, Vice Mayor Allbritton,
Councilmember Bunker and Councilmember Beckman
10.2Amend the Clearwater Code of Ordinances, Section 33.055, relating to the mooring,
beaching and placement of vessels and pass Ordinance 9413-20 on first reading.
Chapter 33 of the Clearwater Code of Ordinances (Waterways and Vessels)
regulate the use of waterways and the conduct of all persons using such
waterways, expect as otherwise provided by law. Section 33.055, addresses
prohibited mooring, beaching and placement of vessels at city owned facilities.
Currently there is no daily time limit that a vessel can moor and occupy one of
the city's non-leased public slips or docks. In an effort to provide greater docking
opportunities to the boating public, increased turnover of the limited number of
non-leased public slips and dock space is in the best interest of all city
residents. Those found in violation of Section 33.055 are subject to receiving a
civil citation.
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City Council Meeting Minutes October 14, 2020
In response to questions, Marine and Aviation Operations Manager Michael
MacDonald said the citation fee is $118. The fee is part of the County's
schedule of fines. He said signage will be posted to ensure the public
understands the citation process. The City Attorney said the City cannot alter
the fee since it is part of the County's schedule of fees. If passed, the
ordinance will allow boaters to park for free for 3 hours a day. The boat slips
are operational from 8:01 a.m. to 9:59 p.m., no overnight docking will be
permitted. He said staff will use video cameras to monitor how long the boats
are docked. The citation will be issued once the boat is docked beyond the
3-hour limit. The City Attorney said the City is writing a ticket to the county
court, the fee is not established by city ordinance.
Staff was directed to provide information regarding how other
municipalities enforce the matter.
Discussion ensued with concerns expressed regarding the fee amount. It
was suggested that a warning be issued prior to issuing the citation. The
City Attorney said staff can determine if there is another way to enforce
the issue. The penalty fee comes with the enforcement method staff is
proposing. There was council consensus to continue the item to the next
meeting.
Councilmember Hamilton moved to continue Item 10.2 to November
5, 2020. The motion was duly seconded and carried unanimously.
10.3Confirm COVID-19 Emergency Proclamation and adopt Resolution 20-54.
Councilmember Hamilton moved to confirm COVID-19 Emergency
Proclamation. The motion was duly seconded and carried
unanimously.
Resolution 20-54 was presented and read by title only.
Councilmember Hamilton moved to adopt Resolution 20-54. The
motion was duly seconded and upon roll call, the vote was:
Ayes: 5 - Mayor Hibbard, Councilmember Hamilton, Vice Mayor Allbritton,
Councilmember Bunker and Councilmember Beckman
11. City Attorney Reports — None.
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City Council Meeting Minutes October 14, 2020
12. Other Council Action
12.1 City Attorney Evaluation
AND
12.2City Manager Evaluation
Councilmembers provided their evaluations of the City Attorney and City
Manager.
13. Closing comments by Councilmembers (limited to 3 minutes)
Vice Mayor Allbritton encouraged everyone to be nice to one another, listen to
the thoughts of others, and that you can disagree without being
disagreeable. He encouraged all to get out and vote.
Councilmember Beckman thanked Alexis Glasgow who organized a call to
action, socially distanced event. She said the messages were informative
and empowering and the conversation that was started was personal and
worthwhile, it was a step int eh right direction and she said she is proud to
have been part of it. She is cheering on the Tampa Bay Rays and said we all
need to cheer each other on to show up and vote. Early voting begins
Monday, October 19th. The Community Garden, located at 1277 Grove St., is
looking for new gardeners and she said the master gardener is friendly and
knowledgeable. Chalktoberfest starts tomorrow in the Downtown and then
moves to the beach.
Councilmember Hamilton said Go Rays! He said Halloween will be different
this year and encouraged all to be safe.
Councilmember Bunker said he was a guest on the Leah Remini's
Scientology Fairgame Podcast that came out a couple days ago, he said
feelings expressed were his own and not necessarily the city's. He
encouraged everyone to vote and said he would be casting his ballot when
early voting starts on October 19tH
14. Closing Comments by Mayor
The Mayor said that by the time Council meets again, the election will be
over. He said he is saddened by the process but we are stronger than this
election cycle as a nation. He said that no matter the results, we have more
in common than we do issues that divide us. He urged everyone to get off
social media, he has severed ties with all his social media accounts and said
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City Council
15. Adjourn
Meeting Minutes October 14, 2020
he thinks it's one of the greatest problems in the country right now. He said
to watch Social Dilemma on Netflix, it's an extraordinary look at what social
media is doing to our society from people who invented it. He thanked
Alexis Glasgow for a great job at the event in Coachman Park, she is an
energetic young lady with a bright future. He recognized Norma Carlough
who was a long-time advisory board member who recently lost her battle
with cancer. She was a lovely lady with a positive outlook who loved her city
and showed it by giving back to others through her service. He
congratulated the Tampa Bay Lightning and said it was great to have the
Stanley Cup here today, it is even more beautiful in person. He said the last
day for the census is tomorrow, October 15, 2020. He reviewed recent and
upcoming events.
The meeting adjourned at 8:21 p.m.
j
Attest City of Clearwater
City of Clearwater
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