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02/16/2021Tuesday, February 16, 2021 8:00 AM City of Clearwater Main Library - Council Chambers 100 N. Osceola Avenue Clearwater, FL 33755 Main Library - Council Chambers Community Redevelopment Agency Meeting Agenda February 16, 2021Community Redevelopment Agency Meeting Agenda Citizens wishing to provide comments on an agenda item are encouraged to do so in advance through written comment. The City has established the following options: 1)eComments via Granicus - eComments is integrated with the published meeting agenda. Individuals may review the agenda item details and indicate their position on the item. You will be prompted to set up a user profile to allow you to comment, which will become part of the official public record. The eComment period is open from the time the agenda is published. Comments received during the meeting will become part of the official record, if posted prior to the closing of public comment. The City Clerk will read received comments into the record. 2)Email – Individuals may submit written comments or videos to ClearwaterCRA@myclearwater.com. All comments received by 5 p.m. the day before the meeting (February 15) will become part of the official record. The City Clerk will read received comments into the record. 3)Council Chambers - Additionally, like any other council meeting, the public may provide public comment at the Main Library, Council Chambers, 100 N Osceola Avenue. Due to COVID-19, all speakers desiring to appear in person will be subject to all applicable emergency measures in place to prevent the further spread of COVID-19. Speakers who appear in person will be subject to screening for symptoms of COVID-19. Any persons exhibiting any symptoms of COVID-19 will not be permitted to enter council chambers but will be able to participate through the remote options described above. Individuals with disabilities who need reasonable accommodations to effectively participate in this meeting are asked to contact the City Clerk at (727)562-4092 or rosemarie.call@myclearwater.com in advance. 1. Call To Order 2. Approval of Minutes 2.1 Approve the January 19, 2021 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 Presentation from AMPLIFY Clearwater, Downtown Clearwater Merchant’s Association, Clearwater Downtown Development Board and the Clearwater Downtown Partnership 4.2 Update on the Community Redevelopment Agency’s marketing campaigns and other marketing services in 2021. 4.3 Provide feedback and direction on proposed grant programs to reduce blight and vacancy throughout the Community Redevelopment Agency district. 5. Director's Report Page 2 City of Clearwater Printed on 2/11/2021 February 16, 2021Community Redevelopment Agency Meeting Agenda 6. Adjourn Page 3 City of Clearwater Printed on 2/11/2021 Cover Memo City of Clearwater Main Library - Council Chambers 100 N. Osceola Avenue Clearwater, FL 33755 File Number: ID#20-8588 Agenda Date: 2/16/2021 Status: Agenda ReadyVersion: 1 File Type: MinutesIn Control: Community Redevelopment Agency Agenda Number: 2.1 SUBJECT/RECOMMENDATION: Approve the January 19, 2021 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 2/11/2021 Community Redevelopment Agency Meeting Minutes January 19, 2021 1 City of Clearwater Main Library - Council Chambers 100 N. Osceola Avenue Clearwater, FL 33755 Meeting Minutes Tuesday, January 19, 2021 9:00 AM Main Library - Council Chambers Community Redevelopment Agency Draft Community Redevelopment Agency Meeting Minutes January 19, 2021 2 Roll Call Present 5 - Chair Frank Hibbard, Trustee David Allbritton, Trustee Hoyt Hamilton, Trustee Kathleen Beckman, and Trustee Mark Bunker 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, Nicole Sprague – Deputy City Clerk, and Amanda Thompson – CRA Executive Director To provide continuity for research, items are listed in agenda order although not necessarily discussed in that order. Unapproved 1. Call to Order – Chair Hibbard The meeting was called to order at 9:08 a.m. in Council Chambers at the Main Library. 2. Approval of Minutes 2.1 Approve the November 16, 2020 CRA Meeting Minutes as submitted in written summation by the City Clerk. Trustee Allbritton moved to approve the November 16, 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 Kathy Flaherty suggested that future CRA agendas include updates from Clearwater Police Department regarding their enforcement efforts in the CRA district and from the Downtown Development Board regarding how they are spending the CRA funds. She also suggested increasing the CRA membership by one individual who would act as the treasurer. 4. New Business Items 4.1 Adopt the Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) strategy that outlines the CRA’s work program from January 2021 through December 2022. Draft Community Redevelopment Agency Meeting Minutes January 19, 2021 3 The purpose of this item is to present the amended January 2021 - December 2022 Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) implementation strategy for adoption. At the September 2020 CRA meeting, the Trustees reviewed the proposed strategy and requested that staff identify specific objectives like the 2018 strategy and performance measures. The strategy has been revised to include the requested items which will be presented at the meeting. For reference, the September 2020 staff report summarizing the strategy has been included below. September 2020 Staff Report Revitalizing a downtown is a long term, complex process at the intersection of community engagement, economic development and urban planning. The CRA relies on partnerships, both city departments and external organizations, to bring the adopted vision for downtown to life. Commitment to a work program and funding priorities allows staff to successfully plan for multi-year projects and communicate potential CRA investments to its partners. In May 2018, the CRA Trustees adopted a new Clearwater Downtown Redevelopment Plan which outlined a vision and goals to increase the attractiveness of downtown as a place to live, work and play. The 2018 redevelopment plan also established an operational framework and capital improvements budget for the next 5-10 years. On October 29, 2018, the CRA trustees adopted a more detailed 18-month implementation strategy to guide the short-term work of CRA staff and investments. The strategy had one main outcome, “to shift the perceptions held by the public and investors about city government and downtown Clearwater to one that aligns with the 2018 adopted vision.” This strategy had four objectives; each objective contained a variety of tasks:  Creating and sharing authentic, positive stories about Downtown Clearwater  Beginning construction on Imagine Clearwater  Permitting 600 housing units  Attracting $100 million dollars of private investment The CRA was able to achieve significant progress in each area, including a shift in operations to prioritize marketing, beautifying public spaces and providing new signature events. RFPs were issued for three CRA owned sites and seven food and drink grants were awarded. The CRA hosted the “Dreams of Dali” virtual reality exhibition for six months attracting over 4,600 visitors to downtown and winning an “Best of Bay” award. The 15% design was completed for Imagine Clearwater as well as the Harborview Center was demolished. However, during this time very few housing units were constructed and there was little private investment. This was primarily due to the lack of investor confidence in downtown’s ability to attract customers/residents, the difficulty of obtaining financing to construct multi-story housing and the CRA’s limited network of potential investors. This year has brought significant changes for the CRA including new trustees, the COVID-19 pandemic, a shift in the design of Imagine Clearwater to emphasize the live performance venue and a new funding source through Draft Community Redevelopment Agency Meeting Minutes January 19, 2021 4 Pinellas County for workforce housing. Downtown businesses and City/CRA staff have responded to these challenges with creativity through the temporary closure of the 400-500 blocks of Cleveland Street and the restaurant voucher program among other initiatives. Over the next two years, there will be significant construction of public improvements throughout the CRA with Streetscape Phase III/Mercado in the Downtown Gateway and the waterfront redevelopment in the Downtown Core which will impact the accessibility and visibility of current businesses. There could be a referendum on the sale/lease of the bluff properties and the establishment of a conservancy which will need the support of Clearwater voters and donors to be successful. There will be increased county funding for workforce housing developments as well as the continuance of the Opportunity Zone federal tax benefits which could stimulate multi-family housing construction. Physical distancing impacts from COVID-19 will be in place through Spring 2021 limiting in person special events continuing the need to create new ways of gathering. Anticipating the impact of these factors is an essential part of our planning for the next two years. It is vital that the CRA keep downtown at the forefront of our residents’ and visitors’ minds to sustain current businesses and build up patrons for future ones. The outcome of the proposed strategy is the same at the 2018 strategy - to change the perception held by the public and investors about downtown to one that is positive and encourages investment. All the proposed CRA programs, capital improvement projects and activities are designed to change the perception of downtown to show it is welcoming, arts infused, vibrant, diverse and sustained by partnerships. The work will be contained in three focus areas: 1. Creating and sharing positive, authentic stories about downtown Clearwater 2. Increasing investor confidence 3. Investing in placemaking and placekeeping The plan lists the proposed activities for each focus area as well as how we will measure our success. Highlights include new business assistance grant programs, identifying “Downtown Champions” to bring their ideas to life in downtown, the redevelopment of CRA owned properties with housing, public art projects and increased marketing efforts to target developers. Staff has created momentum over the past two years and are poised to continue the ongoing transformation of downtown. Staff looks forward to the Trustees’ feedback and guidance on this approach. CRA Executive Director Amanda Thompson provided a PowerPoint presentation. In response to questions, Ms. Thompson said the Engineering Department is implementing the Mercado project; the RFP for construction services is out and responses are due within 45 days. Staff anticipates construction will begin in June. She said the Trustees have Draft Community Redevelopment Agency Meeting Minutes January 19, 2021 5 already approved the pavilion design; construction will be built at the same time as the streetscape. Ms. Thompson said during the last three-year period, the estimated private investment in the CRA was $10-15 million in new businesses, rehabilitation of properties or the purchase of an operational business. The DDB pays the CRA $76,000 annually for administrative services. CRA Business Assistance Administrator Howard Smith will provide an update regarding improving the exterior surfaces of the commercial business in the Downtown Gateway at the February meeting. She said the Cleveland Street Lighting project will be year-round immersive light installation. Due to COVID travel restrictions, the lighting project is on pause until the Canadian consulting team is free to travel. In response to a comment regarding Scientology tours, it was stated that the Church of Scientology would not be involved with the tours. The proposed guided tours would be conducted by former members who would provide a history of the organization in Clearwater. In response to questions, Ms. Thompson said there are appropriate mechanisms in place that monitor DDB's finances. The DDB meetings are all public. She said staff can work with the DDB to have their information more accessible. CRA staff looks at development agreements, business tax receipts, construction permits, and philanthropic investments to determine private investment in the CRA. She said the $50 million in private investment may be underestimated but it is achievable in a two-year timeframe. The City Attorney said she believes the City can require the grants provided by the CRA be expended for the improvements. The CRA does require receipts before releasing the grant funds but does not require the property owner to expend the funds. She said the City is not a party of the agreement between the property owner and the tenant. Ms. Thompson said the 115 S MLK, Jr. Avenue Brewery Compost Site project was being discussed pre-COVID with the Community Garden and city staff in an effort to grow food that is served in restaurants. Breweries produce a lot of waste that could be composted and used in the garden; when done correctly, composting does not smell. Discussion ensued with comments made that the Downtown Ambassadors should not be limited to Downtown or Clearwater residents. Staff was directed to provide information on the percentage of vacant properties. It was suggested that a viewing area of Imagine Clearwater with a full schematic be considered. One individual expressed concern with the lack of progress being made in Draft Community Redevelopment Agency Meeting Minutes January 19, 2021 6 the Gateway area. Trustee Hamilton moved to adopt the Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) strategy that outlines the CRA’s work program from January 2021 through December 2022. The motion was duly seconded and carried unanimously. 4.2 Update on staff and financial requirements to administer a Vacant Property Registry in the Community Redevelopment Area. CRA Executive Director Amanda Thompson provided a PowerPoint presentation. In response to questions, Ms. Thompson said neither process guarantees the property owner will provide truthful information. Assistant City Attorney Michael Fuino said ProChamps collects data and a $100 registration fee for each registered property. It will be up to staff to determine what to do with the collected data. Ms. Thompson said the CRA's strategy has been focused on directing most of its time and money towards CRA and City owned properties to get those spaces developed and filled. In addition, the CRA has been developing grant programs that incentivize filing vacant spaces and temporary programming that reduce blight. Mr. Fuino said ProChamps maintains these registrations for 200 local governments nationwide, with ten located in Florida. He contacted the code compliance mangers from the cities of Sanford, Miami, and West Palm; from the code compliance perspective, they all stated the vacant property registry was positive. The vendor has their own means to collect the information, but the easiest way to collect the information would be from staff. Discussion ensued with comments made that the vacant property registry may not accomplish a reduction in vacant properties. One individual supported a vacant property registry. Trustee Allbritton moved to proceed with staff's recommendation for a staff driven vacant property registry. The motion was duly seconded and carried unanimously. Draft Community Redevelopment Agency Meeting Minutes January 19, 2021 7 4.3 Amend the Loan to Grant Agreement with 949 Cleveland Street, LLC for the property at 943 Cleveland Street, to extend the agreement to March 1, 2022, 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. 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 February 18, 2020, the CRA Trustees determined that the applicant’s proposal met the program requirements and approved a loan to grant in the amount of $187,632.50 for 949 Cleveland LLC to build out a vacant storefront and establish a coffee and dessert shop that will serve hot and cold drinks along with a wide selection of desserts. The total project cost is $375,265.00. The applicant planned to complete construction by February 18, 2021. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, construction has been delayed. The applicant is committed to this project. They have applied for a building permit and been through a revision process, so they anticipate receiving a building permit in the next 30 days. They have requested to extend the grant agreement by one year to complete construction. Staff recommends amending the grant to allow a new completion date of March 1, 2022. 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. It will also fill a persistently vacant site on Cleveland Street. The original grant agreement incorporates the property owner’s full application and financial documents to secure the loan to grant agreement over a five-year period. Those documents will remain unchanged. APPROPRIATION CODE AND AMOUNT: Funds for this grant are available in 3887552-R2003 Economic Development-City The Trustees recessed from 10:34 a.m. to 10:42 a.m. NM Residential representative Matthew McWilliams provided project updates and provided a PowerPoint presentation. In response to questions, Mr. McWilliams said most of the third set of Draft Community Redevelopment Agency Meeting Minutes January 19, 2021 8 comments received for the permit submittals. The parking needs will be met by using some of the parking at the former Walgreens site, parallel parking on Cleveland Street and the new parking lot on the north side of the property. CRA Executive Director Amanda Thompson said there is no parking requirement in the Downtown zoning district. The CRA did the land swap to assist them with parking. Trustee Beckman moved to amend the Loan to Grant Agreement with 949 Cleveland Street, LLC for the property at 943 Cleveland Street, to extend the agreement to March 1, 2022, 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 Amend the Loan to Grant Agreement with 949 Cleveland Street, LLC for the property at 1011 Cleveland Street, to extend the agreement to March 1, 2022, 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. 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 February 18, 2020, the CRA Trustees determined that the applicant’s proposal met the program requirements and approved a loan to grant in the amount of $250,000 for 949 Cleveland LLC 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 total project cost is $610,438.00. The applicant planned to complete construction by February 18, 2021. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, construction has been delayed. The applicant is committed to this project. They have applied for a building permit and been through a revision process, so they anticipate receiving a building permit in the next 30 days. They have requested to extend the grant agreement by one year to complete construction. Staff recommends amending the grant to allow a new completion date of March 1, 2022. This site is critical to serving existing residents and attracting new residents to apartment developments in this area, in turn, generating a favorable Draft Community Redevelopment Agency Meeting Minutes January 19, 2021 9 market to encourage new housing developments in the downtown core. It will also fill a persistently vacant site on Cleveland Street. The original grant agreement incorporates the property owner’s full application and financial documents to secure the loan to grant agreement over a five-year period. Those documents will remain unchanged. APPROPRIATION CODE AND AMOUNT: Funds for this grant are available in 3887552-R2003 Economic Development-City Trustee Bunker moved to amend the Loan to Grant Agreement with 949 Cleveland Street, LLC for the property at 1011 Cleveland Street, to extend the agreement to March 1, 2022, 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. 4.5 Amend a Loan to Grant Agreement with 949 Cleveland Street, LLC for the properties at 1017, 1023 and 1029 Cleveland Street, to extend the agreement to March 1, 2022, 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. 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 February 18, 2020, the CRA Trustees determined that the applicant’s proposal met the program requirements and approved a loan to grant in the amount of $250,000.00 for 949 Cleveland LLC to build out multiple vacant storefronts 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 total project cost is $570,655.48. The applicant planned to complete construction by February 18, 2021. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, construction has been delayed. The applicant Draft Community Redevelopment Agency Meeting Minutes January 19, 2021 10 is committed to this project. They have applied for a building permit and been through a revision process, so they anticipate receiving a building permit in the next 30 days. They have requested to extend the grant agreement by one year to complete construction. Staff recommends amending the grant to allow a new completion date of March 1, 2022. 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. It will also fill a persistently vacant site on Cleveland Street. The original grant agreement incorporates the property owner’s full application and financial documents to secure the loan to grant agreement over a five-year period. Those documents will remain unchanged. APPROPRIATION CODE AND AMOUNT: Funds for this grant are available in 3887552-R2003 Economic Development-City Trustee Hamilton moved to amend a Loan to Grant Agreement with 949 Cleveland Street, LLC for the properties at 1017, 1023 and 1029 Cleveland Street, to extend the agreement to March 1, 2022, 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. 4.6 Temporarily re-open the Food and Drink Business Tenant Program for the purpose of renewing the Loan to Grant Agreement with Fourcee LLC d/b/a Blackbrick Tavern and Kitchen at 432 Cleveland Street and authorize the appropriate officials to execute same. At the October 29, 2018 CRA meeting, the CRA Trustees approved a time limited, grant program for restaurant tenants in the Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) area that received a Certificate of Occupancy or were under active construction after January 1, 2018. As part of that program, Fourcee LLC d/b/a Blackbrick Tavern and Kitchen received a loan to grant in the amount of $61,341.25. The grant agreement, after two extensions, required the business to receive a Certificate of Occupancy by October 1, 2019. Fourcee LLC d/b/a Blackbrick Tavern and Kitchen submitted a grant application, supporting invoices and the financial documentation necessary for a complete grant request. The applicant provided invoices totaling $175,260.72 detailing improvements necessary to open a restaurant as part of their grant request. The CRA determined that $61,341.25 was eligible for grant funding. The Business Tenant Food and Drink grant program allows for a loan to grant to be forgiven over a 5-year period. The tenant must stay in business and maintain the existing improvements to the building for a minimum of 5 years. After several delays during construction, Black Brick Tavern has received a CO Draft Community Redevelopment Agency Meeting Minutes January 19, 2021 11 and is now open as a full-service bar and restaurant. Staff recommends renewing the grant and moving forward with issuing eligible grant reimbursements. No other changes to the terms of the grant are proposed. APPROPRIATION CODE AND AMOUNT: Funds are available in 3887552-R2003 Economic Development-City Trustee Allbritton moved to temporarily re-open the Food and Drink Business Tenant Program for the purpose of renewing the Loan to Grant Agreement with Fourcee LLC d/b/a Blackbrick Tavern and Kitchen at 432 Cleveland Street and authorize the appropriate officials to execute same. The motion was duly seconded and carried unanimously. 5. Director's Report It was suggested the CRA meetings be held earlier. There was consensus to hold the CRA meetings at 8:00 a.m. 6. Adjourn The meeting adjourned at 10:54 a.m. Chair Community Redevelopment Agency Attest City Clerk Draft Cover Memo City of Clearwater Main Library - Council Chambers 100 N. Osceola Avenue Clearwater, FL 33755 File Number: ID#21-8794 Agenda Date: 2/16/2021 Status: Agenda ReadyVersion: 1 File Type: Action ItemIn Control: Community Redevelopment Agency Agenda Number: 4.1 SUBJECT/RECOMMENDATION: Presentation from AMPLIFY Clearwater, Downtown Clearwater Merchant’s Association, Clearwater Downtown Development Board and the Clearwater Downtown Partnership SUMMARY: The Community Redevelopment Agency has invited four downtown organizations who support and advocate for the business community in downtown to provide a brief update on their 2021 plans. APPROPRIATION CODE AND AMOUNT: N/A Page 1 City of Clearwater Printed on 2/11/2021 D OWN T OW N CLEARWATER The city of Clearwater's Community Redevelopment Agency seeks to provide insight on Downtown Clearwater's various partners to CRA Trustees. The CRA sought information from AMPLIFY Clearwater, the Clearwater Downtown Partnership, the Downtown Clearwater Merchants Association, and Downtown Development Board. Below is data provided the CRA by AMPLIFY Clearwater as of Jan. 2021. Downtown Clearwater organization: AMPLIFY Clearwater Organization status: Nonprofit, Board (elected by members) Organization website: https://www.amplifyclearwater.com Annual budget: $1,400,000.00 Organization mission: The mission at AMPLIFY Clearwater is to promote and meet the needs of businesses, tourism, and industry and to provide leadership for the advancement of economic vitality and equality for the community of the North Pinellas Region. Staff size: 6 core staff members, 3 visitor center employees Current funding structure: AMPLIFY Clearwater is funded through a combination of membership dues, non dues revenue (events, programming, etc.), and contracts with city and county government to provide services for a fee Current leadership: Board: Scott Goyer, YMCA of the Suncoast, Chairman of the Board; Sheri Heilman, Bob Heilman's Beachcomber, Chair Elect; Mike Sutton, Habitat for Humanity of Pinellas and West Pasco Counties, Immediate Past Chair; Rick Buschart, Bollenback & Forret, Treasurer Staff: Amanda Payne, President/CEO; Kristina Alspaw, Executive VP Current activities: AMPLIFY Clearwater is a dynamic membership organization which represents more than 800 businesses in the Tampa Bay area, predominantly North Pinellas County. The programs and services of the Chamber range from business boardrooms to local restaurant and retail as well as beach and tourism partners' promotions. The Chamber works closely with government officials at all levels to help maintain and encourage a business -friendly environment and to assist our members with information and access. l' D OWN T OWN CLEARWATER Specific activities and initiatives include: Attitudes of Gratitude, Chamber Chats, Pre & Post Legislative Events, Small Business Town Halls, Women Who Lead, AchieveHERs, AMPLIFY Clearwater Chamber Foundation, ClearPAC Annual Business Awards, Annual Meeting, Clearwater Young Professionals, Chamber on Tap Golf Tournament, Ribbon Cutting, Podcast, Tourist Website, Economic Development Diversity & Inclusion, Leadership AMPLIFIED Workforce Development, Chalktober Art Festival, Let's Take It Outside with Misty Wells, Light It Up Clearwater Fireworks Show, Outback Bowl Beach Day, Phillies Welcome Reception, Taste Fest, Clearwater Vacation Guide, Visitor Information Centers, Tourism Advisory Council, eNewsletter, Online Business Directory, Website, Advertising, Search Engine Optimization, President's Leadership Council, Trailing Family Concierge, Business referrals Point of contact: Amanda Payne, amanda@amplifyclearwater.com CLEARWATER The city of Clearwater's Community Redevelopment Agency seeks to provide insight on Downtown Clearwater's partners to CRA Trustees. The CRA sought information from AMPLIFY Clearwater, the Clearwater Downtown Partnership, the Downtown Clearwater Merchants Association, and Downtown Development Board. Below is data provided the CRA by the Clearwater Downtown Partnership as of Jan. 2021. Downtown Clearwater organization: Clearwater Downtown Partnership Organization status: Nonprofit Organization website: http://clearwaterdowntownpartnership.com/ Annual budget: Not available at time of reporting Organization mission: The mission of the Clearwater Downtown Partnership (CDP) is to cultivate a Safe, Dynamic & Thriving Clearwater City Center. Staff size: The Clearwater Downtown Partnership is a non-profit group comprised of citizens, businesses and civic organizations who encourage and advance the strategic economic development of gracious living spaces, inviting office and retail space and extraordinary entertainment options that ultimately promote Downtown Clearwater as the premier destination to live, work and play. The CDP has no full time staff, and nineteen members. Current funding structure: The CDP receives funding through donations and sponsorships. Current leadership: Janelle Branch, Chair; Lina Teixeira, Vice Chair; Neil Ruiz, Treasurer Current activities: The CDP's activities include support of Imagine Clearwater; local Small business support via Educational Workshops, Webinars; training programs such as "The Virtual Cliff Notes of Owning and Operating a business;" Supporting Community Partners on revitalization efforts such as the DCMA and DDB (ex: Taste of Clearwater and Art Exhibitions); promotion and marketing of downtown, (ex: inviting developers to explore investment opportunities in the downtown). Point of contact: cdpimpact@gmail.com D OWN T OWN CLEARWATER The city of Clearwater's Community Redevelopment Agency seeks to provide insight on Downtown Clearwater's partners to CRA Trustees. The CRA sought information from AMPLIFY Clearwater, the Clearwater Downtown Partnership, the Downtown Clearwater Merchants Association, and Downtown Development Board. Below is data provided the CRA by the Downtown Clearwater Merchants Association as of Jan. 2021. Downtown Clearwater organization: Downtown Clearwater Merchants Association Organization status: Nonprofit Organization website: https://TheDistrictCLW.com (website in development). Currently using "The District in Downtown Clearwater" on FB, IG and Twitter Annual budget: Not available at time of reporting Organization mission: The Downtown Clearwater Merchants Association (DCMA) represents a cross-section of small businesses in the Downtown Clearwater area. Its goal is to help businesses succeed through a collaborative marketing effort with maximum exposure under "The District" umbrella. Staff size: The DCMA is comprised of 35 members (includes a sub -group of ten volunteers in a marketing group, and a core group of five volunteers who run the organization as the board). Current funding structure: The DCMA is funded through memberships and fundraising efforts (ex: events like Wine Walks and The District Advantages App), grants from the Downtown Development Board, and merchandise sales. Current leadership: Co -presidents Carolyn Bradham and Scott Sousa; Treasurer Steve Casper; Board Member Lina Teixeira; Board Member Natalya Harrison Current activities: The DCMA engages in various activities, including: The District Marketing Campaign, Monthly Charitable Dine Out through restaurant collaboration, small business seminars through the Clearwater Downtown Partnership, involvement with all downtown stakeholders programs (CRA, DDB, CDP, AMPLIFY Clearwater, Landlords), outdoor live entertainment (multiple times weekly), monthly Sip' N Stroll which showcases restaurants and retailers, ongoing public relations campaign through FB, IG and Twitter. Point of contact: Scott Sousa, ssousaclearsky@gmail.com D OWN T OWN CLEARWATER The city of Clearwater's Community Redevelopment Agency seeks to provide insight on Downtown Clearwater's institutional partners to CRA Trustees. The CRA sought information from AMPLIFY Clearwater, the Clearwater Downtown Partnership, the Downtown Clearwater Merchants Association, and Downtown Development Board. Below is data provided the CRA by the Downtown Development Board as of Jan. 2021. Downtown Clearwater organization: Clearwater Downtown Development Board Organization status: Board/Elected by property owners within its district Organization website: https://www.myclearwater.com/government/city- departments/economic-development-housing/downtown-corridor/downtown-development- board-ddb Annual budget: $430,303.00 (FY20-21) Organization mission: To promote, facilitate and support activities that sustain, promote and advance downtown revitalization and to attract businesses and residents to relocate and stay in the downtown area. Staff size: The Downtown Development Board (DDB) is comprised of seven elected officials who act as an aid to the City, the Clearwater Redevelopment Agency (CRA) and Citizens to see that city services are properly planned for the downtown area. DDB members must either live, work, or own property in the DDB district. The DDB is also staffed by the city's CRA (staff size: 4), as well as an attorney. Current funding structure: The DDB receives tax increment funding. Property owners in the DDB pay an additional 0.0097 mils in property tax. That tax is collected by the Pinellas County Tax Commissioner. Current leadership: The DDB is currently led by Paris Morfopoulos - Board Chair and Keanan Kintzel - Vice Chair Current activities: The DDB provides business assistance grants, special events grants, and project funding within its district. These categories could change based on the DDB's yearly work plan, which is adopted each year. The DDB currently provides business assistance (funding for signage, marketing, events, etc.) within its district in Downtown Clearwater. Point of contact: Paris Morfopoulous, paris@onestoppeshoppe.com Howard Smith, CRA Business Assistance Administrator, howard.smith@myclearwater.com Cover Memo City of Clearwater Main Library - Council Chambers 100 N. Osceola Avenue Clearwater, FL 33755 File Number: ID#21-8795 Agenda Date: 2/16/2021 Status: Agenda ReadyVersion: 1 File Type: Action ItemIn Control: Community Redevelopment Agency Agenda Number: 4.2 SUBJECT/RECOMMENDATION: Update on the Community Redevelopment Agency’s marketing campaigns and other marketing services in 2021. SUMMARY: CRA staff will provide an update on the agency’s most successful marketing campaigns in 2020 and new programs for 2021 including: - the Opportunity Zone advertising campaign - the Bluff RFP advertising campaign - the contract with Bandwagon, LLC to implement a community survey identify downtown’s brand - retaining a marketing consultant for use by businesses impacted by streetscape construction - the development of public education videos about the CRA and its operations APPROPRIATION CODE AND AMOUNT: N/A Page 1 City of Clearwater Printed on 2/11/2021 Editorial Strategy 2020-2021 CRA CRA Two - Year Strategy •Creating and sharing positive, authentic stories about downtown Clearwater •Increasing investor confidence •Investing in placemaking and placekeeping | 2 What is the CRA’s Role? •Goals •Increase investment and pride in Downtown Clearwater •Distinct audiences •Investors •Residents and visitors •Programming and messaging Core Channels WEBSITE SOCIAL MEDIA EMAIL NEWS MEDIA ADVERTISING PARTNERS Metrics Reporting Website •2019 •ADA compliance •Mobile-friendly •Improved calendar and community submissions •Access to CRA staff •2020 •New initiatives •Downtownclearwater.com Email •MailChimp platform •New subscribers •Growth in 2019: 15.6% •Growth in 2020: 95% •List-building for target audiences •Monthly newsletter •Earned media •Tracking press mentions for downtown, CRA, DDB •Paid media •83 Degrees – editorial •Tampa Bay is Awesome – social media •UNation - events Media Relations and Advertising Media Relations and Advertising 2021 and beyond •Advertising and public relations – general ​ •Bandwagon​ •Community survey/brand assessment •Advertising and public relations – project based ​ •Streetscape Phase 3 •RFP Bluff Property​ •Dion Marketing •Opportunity Zone •Invest Tampa Bay Editorial Strategy 2020-2021 CRA Cover Memo City of Clearwater Main Library - Council Chambers 100 N. Osceola Avenue Clearwater, FL 33755 File Number: ID#21-8796 Agenda Date: 2/16/2021 Status: Agenda ReadyVersion: 1 File Type: Action ItemIn Control: Community Redevelopment Agency Agenda Number: 4.3 SUBJECT/RECOMMENDATION: Provide feedback and direction on proposed grant programs to reduce blight and vacancy throughout the Community Redevelopment Agency district. SUMMARY: The Community Redevelopment Agency’s two-year strategy outlines a variety of action steps to shift the perception of downtown to encourage private investment. These actions typically fall into three categories - services that are delivered directly by CRA staff, services that the CRA staff pays outside organizations to provide and grants for projects implemented by private businesses and/or non-profit organizations. The purpose of today’s discussion is to receive feedback and direction on grant programs designed to directly reduce blight and vacancy in the CRA through the rehabilitation of commercial properties. The CRA has three active grant programs - the façade grant, the sidewalk furniture grant and the general incentive request form. CRA staff has spent 18 months in conversation with tenants, property owners and other city staff to better understand how to develop partnerships with the community that will improve the appearance of commercial properties and reduce vacancy. Staff has learned that many smaller business owners (tenants) do not take advantage of the façade program because of the required five-year facade easement which must be signed by the property owner. This grant is also limited to portions of the building adjacent to a public right of way. The general incentive request has been used two times - for streetscape improvements and a construction of rental housing, but it is not suited for smaller requests that are more about building maintenance than truly an incentive request. The sidewalk furniture grant is limited to the downtown core area and to outdoor furniture only. There are three programs in development that staff wishes to bring forward for adoption in March 2021. These will be ongoing programs with an annual budget allocation. For each program, staff would like feedback on the following items: 1.Who is eligible to apply for the grant? Property owners? Tenants? 2.Should all properties be considered equally or ranked according to location, state of disrepair, current or proposed use or another consideration? 3.Should the CRA require a financial match? 4.What is a higher priority for the CRA - improving the exterior appearance of commercial properties (less cost and can reach more properties) OR assisting with the buildout of vacant properties to potentially fill those spaces (higher cost and less properties)? Page 1 City of Clearwater Printed on 2/11/2021 File Number: ID#21-8796 A summary of each of the proposed programs is provided below as a starting point for the conversation. CRA Beautification Grant (Exterior Improvements) The purpose of this program is to improve the visual appearance of commercial properties through exterior improvements. Grants may be given to property owners or tenants. Eligible improvements include painting, signage, lighting, doors, windows, site improvements and other minor exterior repairs. These grants are for projects that do not exceed $25,000 in total project costs. CRA will fully fund grants up to $5,000 and will provide a 50% match towards the total project cost up to a maximum of $12,500. CRA Whitebox Grant (Small Renovation) The purpose of this program is to assist owners and/or tenants with renovating commercial spaces for to establish long term and short term uses that generate pedestrian traffic. This program would allow for currently vacant spaces to host “pop-up” retail or arts attractions as well as convert office space to a use that would allow for large groups of people to gather, like a gallery space or a bar. Property owners or tenants would be eligible for this grant. Eligible improvements include exterior improvements like painting, signage, lighting, doors, windows, site improvements and other minor exterior repairs. Eligible interior improvements include windows, doors, standard lighting and electrical, basic HVAC, concrete floor, ADA restrooms and water fountain, utility upgrades and fire code improvements. These grants are for projects that do not exceed $100,000 in total project costs. The CRA will fully fund grants up to $25,000 and will provide a 50% match towards the total project costs up to a maximum of $50,000 per project. CRA Vacancy Reduction Grant (Large Renovation) The purpose of this program is to assist owners and/or tenants with renovating commercial spaces for to establish long term uses that generate pedestrian traffic. Property owners would be eligible for this grant. Eligible improvements include exterior improvements like painting, signage, lighting, doors, windows, site improvements and other minor exterior repairs. Eligible interior improvements include windows, doors, standard lighting and electrical, basic HVAC, concrete floor, ADA restrooms and fountain and fire code improvements. Other improvements that remain with the building will be considered. These grants are for large projects that exceed $500,000 in total project costs. The CRA will provide a 50% match towards the total project costs up to a maximum of $250,000 per project. APPROPRIATION CODE AND AMOUNT: N/A Page 2 City of Clearwater Printed on 2/11/2021 |1CITY OF CLEARWATER Community Redevelopment Agency Proposed Grant Programs Discussion Focus Areas Create and Share Positive, Authentic Stories about Downtown Clearwater 1 Increase Investor Confidence 2 Invest in Placemaking and Placekeeping 3 Today’s Purpose Provide direction on three proposed grant programs to reduce blight and vacancy throughout the CRA district Focus Area 2: Objectives Attract $50 million dollars in private investment 1 Approve development agreements for the sale or lease of a minimum of three CRA owned properties 2 Build operational capacity of a minimum of three downtown business/community advocacy organizations 3 Reduce the number of ground floor, vacant commercial buildings by 10% 4 Focus Area 3: Objectives Complete identified capital improvement projects 1 Develop three signature placemaking programs with a focus on children, downtown employees and the intersection of art and technology 2 Improve the physical appearance of blighted residential and commercial properties 3 What causes persistent vacancy in Clearwater? •Investors don’t know about downtown •Land value is worth more than building, so owner holds out for land assembly and demolition (Unintended consequence of higher density zoning) •Lender not willing to finance because costs of rehabilitation exceeds the revenue a tenant will be able to generate •Owner wants a higher lease/sale amount than market will support •Unable to attract tenants/buyers with financial resources •Owner can afford to wait and/or is highly risk adverse •Most vacant buildings need significant renovation or buildout $500,000 or more Beautification Grant Improve the visual appearance of commercial properties through exterior improvements for projects that typically cost $25,000 or less Property owners or tenants could apply Eligible improvements include painting, signage, lighting, doors, windows, site improvements and other minor exterior repairs. Fully fund grants up to $5,000 and will provide a 50% match towards the total project cost up to a maximum of $12,500 grant. $250,000 budget for Year 1 which would cover 20 properties at full grant amount. Whitebox Grant Renovations to commercial spaces to establish long term and short term uses that generate pedestrian foot traffic for projects that typically costs $100,000 or less Property owners or tenants could apply Eligible improvements include painting, signage, lighting, doors, windows. Interior improvements include walls, standard lighting and electrical, basic HVAC, concrete floor, ADA restrooms and water fountain, utility upgrades and fire code improvements. Fully fund grants up to $25,000 and will provide a 50% match towards the total project cost up to a maximum of $50,000 grant. $300,000 budget for Year 1 which would cover 6 properties at full grant amount. Vacancy Reduction Grant Renovations to commercial spaces to establish long term uses that generate pedestrian foot traffic for projects that typically costs over $500,000 Property owners could apply Eligible improvements include painting, signage, lighting, doors, windows. Interior improvements include walls, standard lighting and electrical, basic HVAC, concrete floor, ADA restrooms and water fountain, utility upgrades and fire code improvements. Will provide a 50% match towards the total project cost up to a maximum of $250,000 grant. $500,000 budget for Year 1 which would cover 2 properties at full grant amount. Discussion • Who is eligible to apply for the grant? Should a tenant be identified prior to receiving the grant? • Should all properties be considered equally or ranked according to location, state of disrepair, current or proposed use or another consideration? • Should the CRA require a financial match? • What is a higher priority for the CRA - improving the exterior appearance of commercial properties (less cost and can reach more properties) OR assisting with the buildout of vacant properties to potentially fill those spaces (higher cost and less properties)? |17CITY OF CLEARWATER Community Redevelopment Agency Proposed Building Improvement Grant Programs Discussion Reference Slides It takes everyone to revitalize a downtown Government & Development Authorities Downtown Advocacy Organizations Residents Property Owners Non-profit Service Providers Artists & Cultural Institutions Private Investors & Lenders Businesses & Entrepreneurs How the CRA Facilitates Change Reduce Reduce Barriers to New Housing and Businesses Promote Promote a Positive Brand Provide Provide Places for Partners to Implement the Adopted Vision Expand and Grow Expand and Grow Networks of Investors Live/Work/Play Mixed Income Apartments Cultural & Entertainment Uses Retaining Current Restaurant/Retail Focus Area 2: CRA Actions OZ Advertising Campaigns and Events Redevelopment of CRA and City Owned Properties Business Assistance Grants for Building Improvements Monthly CRA Business Meeting DDB Grant Programs Capacity Building for Downtown Organizations