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11/12/1997MARINE ADVISORY BOARD CITY OF CLEARWATER November 12, 1997 Present: David C. Martens Chair Donald McFarland Vice-Chair David Hemerick Member Edward Dohrman Member Bill Wilhelm Member Cliff Conatser Member of Public William Held Harbormaster Brenda Moses Board Reporter Absent: Ernie Cline Member David Smith Member The meeting was called to order by Chair Martens at 8:00 a.m. at the Marina. In order to provide continuity for research, the items will be listed in agenda order although not necessarily discussed in that order. Chair Martens asked if there were any questions or corrections to the October 8, 1997, minutes. Since there was none, he announced the minutes stand approved as submitted. Request to extend the wake zone in Clearwater Pass by parasail operator Cliff Conatser Harbormaster William Held reported requests to extend wake zones require discussion by the MAB (Marine Advisory Board), and approval by the FMP (Florida Marine Patrol). The Planning and Zoning Board approved a conditional use permit for Parasail operator Cliff Conatser to operate his business off Hamden Drive. He has requested extending the wake zone in Clearwater Pass by 100 yards to the west to include the area around Shepherd’s Restaurant. It was noted the site is heavily used, especially by weekend boaters. Mr. Conatser felt his business could safely operate at its current location regardless of the wake zone extension, but expressed concern the wake zone extension is necessary for other safety reasons: fishing boats create large wakes which can be dangerous to small boaters, jet skiers, and swimmers. He said the extension would prevent further beach erosion in the area. It was noted after Clearwater Pass was completed, the wake zone was extended 100 yards. The FMP does not consider protection of property when approving wake zone extensions. It was felt conflict has always existed as the Pass is misconstrued as a beach. Property owners abutting the Pass previously suggested establishing a restricted swim area. That action would require an ordinance and would obligate the City to supply lifeguards and other services, and responsibility for liability issues. Member Wilhelm moved to extend the wake zone 150 yards to the west in Clearwater Pass. Discussion ensued. It was suggested members visit the area before a decision is made. There was no second. Mr. Conatser said he will bring a petition regarding the extension of the wake zone to the next meeting. 2. Island Estates Property Mr. Held had requested the City Manager agenda delay discussing uses for the City-owned Island Estates property for the City Commission’s until the January meeting.. The MAB plans to discuss constructing a marina on the property with the City Manager at the December meeting. Mr. Held said the City has some riparian rights, but John Ross, the owner of the Old Seaspire Motel owns the bottom land north of the reverter line. Members were encouraged to direct their questions to Assistant City Attorney John Carassas. 3. Magnolia Street Dock Chair Martens said the Magnolia Street seawall was completed in October. Construction of the beams and the platform has begun. No new information is available regarding the pending appeal. The City is proceeding with the project which will be completed by early 1998. 4. Marina Restroom Renovations Mr. Held said renovations of the Marina restrooms have been postponed until May 1998, due to the upcoming tourist season. Funds are available in the CIP (Capital Improvement Plan). The work will take approximately 3 to 4 months. Mr. Held reported the applications have been submitted to the State for permits to construct 3 fishing piers at Clearwater Pass. Approval is anticipated. CIP funds have been allocated. Board Elections Discussion ensued regarding election of a new Chair. Member McFarland moved to re-elect Chair Martens to a second term as Chair. The motion was duly seconded and carried unanimously. The meeting adjourned at 8:40 a.m.