04/03/2025 City Council Meeting Minutes April 3, 2025
City of Clearwater
Main Library- Council Chambers
100 N. Osceola Avenue
Clearwater, FL 33755
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Meeting Minutes
Thursday, April 3, 2025
6:00 PM
Main Library - Council Chambers
City Council
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City of Clearwater
City Council Meeting Minutes April 3, 2025
Roll Call
Present: 5 - Mayor Bruce Rector, Vice Mayor David Allbritton, Councilmember
Ryan Cotton, Councilmember Michael Mannino and Councilmember
Lina Teixeira
Also Present: Jennifer Poirrier— City Manager, Daniel Slaughter—Assistant City
Manager, David Margolis — 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 Rector
The meeting was called to order at 6:00 p.m.
2. Invocation — Major Ted Morris, Salvation Army
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 Clearwater For Youth 2025 Scholarships - Eric Harris, CFY Program Manager
4.2 Donate Life Month Proclamation, April 2025 - Ray Rodriguez, LifeLink
4.3 National Library Week Proclamation, April 6-12, 2025 - Linda Rothstein, Library Assistant
Director
5. Approval of Minutes
5.1 Approve the minutes of the March 17, 2025 City Council meeting as submitted in written
summation by the City Clerk.
Councilmember Cotton moved to approve the minutes of the
March 17, 2025 City Council meeting as submitted in written
summation by the City Clerk. The motion was duly seconded and
carried unanimously.
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City Council Meeting Minutes April 3, 2025
6. Consent Agenda — Approved as submitted less Items 6.2 and 6.4.
6.1 Authorize a Guaranteed Maximum Price proposal to Khors Construction, Inc. of Pinellas
Park, Florida, for upgrades to an aging electrical system, aesthetic improvements and
lighting of the pool equipment building at Ross Norton Recreation and Aquatic Complex
located at 1426 South Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue in the amount of$146,860.76 and
authorize the appropriate officials to execute same. (consent)
6.2 Approve an Event License Agreement between Jones Lang LaSalle Americas, Inc. in its
capacity as agent for the owner of the premises known as Countryside Mall, located at
27001 US Highway 19 North, Clearwater, Florida, and the City of Clearwater Police
Department for the purpose of hosting a Shred-A-Thou and Operation Medicine Cabinet
event on April 26, 2025, located at the Countryside Mall and authorize the appropriate
officials to execute same. (consent)
See below.
6.3 Approve a Purchase Order to Tampa Bay Marine, Inc., of Gibsonton, FL, for Seminole
Boat Ramp Repairs in the amount of$678,073 per Invitation to Bid (ITB) 22-0023-EN
and authorize the appropriate officials to execute same. (consent)
6.4 Approve Underground Conversions Agreement (UCA) and Utility Relocation Agreement
(URA) with Duke Energy Florida, LLC , in the amount of$671,431.56 to replace
overhead power lines with new underground distribution lines and facilities on Myrtle
Avenue from Cleveland St. to Court St. and authorize the appropriate officials to execute
same. (consent)
See below.
6.5 Authorize an increase to purchase order with multiple vendors for the maintenance and
repair of city vehicles in a cumulative not-to-exceed amount of$75,000.00 for the initial
term ending June 30, 2025, bringing the total amount to $350,000.00, and authorize an
annual increase of$100,000.00 for each renewal option, bringing the cumulative annual
amount to $350,000.00 pursuant to Invitation to Bid (ITB) 30-24, and authorize the
appropriate officials to execute same. (consent)
6.6 Authorize a purchase order to Communications International of Vero Beach, FL for the
purchase of new additional or replacement two-way radios used citywide in a
not-to-exceed amount of$200,000.00 through March 31, 2026, pursuant to Clearwater
Code of Ordinances Section 2.563(1)(d), Non-Competitive Purchases (Impractical), and
authorize the appropriate officials to execute same. (consent)
6.7 Appoint Mr. Gregory Keane for the remainder of the current four-year term ending June
30, 2027 as a trustee of the Clearwater Firefighters' Supplemental Trust Fund in
accordance with Sec. 175.061 of the Florida State Statutes. (consent)
6.8 Authorize a purchase order to Xylem Water Solutions USA, Inc, for the purchase of Flygt
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City Council Meeting Minutes April 3, 2025
Pumps and Mixers, replacement parts, and factory authorized service, in an annual
not-to-exceed amount of$995,000.00 for the term April 4, 2025, through April 3, 2026,
with the option of two one-year renewals pursuant to Clearwater Code of Ordinances
Section 2.563(1)(d), Non-competitive purchases (impractical to bid); and authorize the
appropriate officials to execute same. (consent)
6.9 Elect Councilmember Teixeira to serve as Vice Mayor. (consent)
6.10Reappoint Michael Grohman and Marvin Siple to the Marine Advisory Board with terms
expiring March 31, 2029. (consent)
6.11Appoint Alecia Collins-Andrews and Maury Loscher to the Auditor Selection Committee
for terms expiring March 31, 2030. (consent)
Councilmember Teixeira moved to approve the Consent Agenda
as submitted, less Items 6.2 and 6.4. The motion was duly
seconded and carried unanimously.
6.2Approve an Event License Agreement between Jones Lang LaSalle Americas, Inc. in its
capacity as agent for the owner of the premises known as Countryside Mall, located at
27001 US Highway 19 North, Clearwater, Florida, and the City of Clearwater Police
Department for the purpose of hosting a Shred-A-Thou and Operation Medicine Cabinet
event on April 26, 2025, located at the Countryside Mall and authorize the appropriate
officials to execute same.
Jones Lang LaSalle Americas, Inc. and the Clearwater Police Department
(CPD) have entered into a cooperative agreement to allow the police
department access to use the property at Countryside Mall during the
Shred-A-Thou and Operation Medicine Cabinet event on April 26, 2025.
The property manager requests the Clearwater Police Department agree to the
terms and conditions outlined in the Event License Agreement between Jones
Lang LaSalle Americas, Inc. and CPD. Additionally, the property manager
requests CPD hold harmless Jones Lang LaSalle Americas, Inc. from and
against any and all loss liability, damage, cost or expense arising out of or
related to CPD's use of the property.
Nothing in the agreement, however, shall be deemed a waiver of the limitations
on liability contained in Section 768.28, Florida Statutes, or the doctrine of
sovereign immunity.
There are no costs associated with this Event License Agreement.
STRATEGIC PRIORITY:
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City Council Meeting Minutes April 3, 2025
4.2 Adopt renewable resource usage and waste reduction practices to ensure a
vibrant City for current and future generations.
One individual spoke in opposition.
Vice Mayor Allbritton moved to approve an Event License
Agreement between Jones Lang LaSalle Americas, Inc. in its
capacity as agent for the owner of the premises known as
Countryside Mall, located at 27001 US Highway 19 North,
Clearwater, Florida, and the City of Clearwater Police Department
for the purpose of hosting a Shred-A-Thon and Operation
Medicine Cabinet event on April 26, 2025, located at the
Countryside Mall and authorize the appropriate officials to
execute same. The motion was duly seconded and carried
unanimously.
6.4 Approve Underground Conversions Agreement (UCA) and Utility Relocation Agreement
(URA) with Duke Energy Florida, LLC , in the amount of$671,431.56 to replace
overhead power lines with new underground distribution lines and facilities on Myrtle
Avenue from Cleveland St. to Court St. and authorize the appropriate officials to execute
same. (consent)
In support of the City's new City Hall (22-0019-EN) and MSB Renovation
(23-0035-EN) projects as well PSTA's Multimodal Transit Center, the City
needs to have Duke remove overhead power lines and replace with new
underground lines along the west side of Myrtle Avenue from just north of
Cleveland Street to just south of Court Street to comply with City's Downtown
Development Standards Section 3-912. This will improve aesthetics of the
urban landscape, provide a cleaner visual appearance, enhance pedestrian
access while also offering increased reliability and safety compared to overhead
lines. This undergrounding effort provides opportunity for increased property
values, creating a more attractive environment for businesses and residents,
stimulating investment and revitalizing the area.
The proposed undergrounding of Duke power lines and facilities covers
approximately four blocks for$671,431.56 based on Duke's February 15, 2025,
binding project estimate. Per the UCA, the City will pay Duke the entire portion,
$671,431.56. The City's ILA with PSTA, approved by Council March 17, 2025,
formalizes PSTA's reimbursement to the City and responsibilities of the
underground effort. The City's portion owed to Duke is $503,573.56 or 75% for
three blocks and PSTA's portion is $167,858.00 or 25% for one block.
The City and PSTA are responsible for restoration of their adjacent right-of-way
(ROW) and private property and coordinating with the joint users to remove
private telecom lines from the Duke-owned power poles once Duke removes
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City Council Meeting Minutes April 3, 2025
the power lines.
CRA has $1 million in CRA funds budgeted to cover the City's portion of
undergrounding cost, including joint users and restoration. The City and PSTA
will coordinate with Duke individually on various easements to accommodate
required switchgear and transformers on city and PSTA property with the power
lines typically being directional drilled in the ROW. Duke anticipates a 7-month
construction duration once they receive permits.
APPROPRIATION CODE AND AMOUNT:
3887552-530300-R2005 $671,431.56
Funding is available in capital improvement project R2005, Infrastructure (City)
to fund the contract. Funding is provided by CRA.
STRATEGIC PRIORITY:
Investment in undergrounding of overhead power lines in the downtown core
supports all five of the strategic priorities below.
Two individuals spoke in support.
Councilmember Mannino moved to approve Underground
Conversions Agreement (UCA) and Utility Relocation Agreement
(URA) with Duke Energy Florida, LLC , in the amount of
$671,431.56 to replace overhead power lines with new
underground distribution lines and facilities on Myrtle Avenue
from Cleveland St. to Court St. and authorize the appropriate
officials to execute same. The motion was duly seconded and
carried unanimously.
Public Hearings - Not before 6:00 PM
7. Administrative Public Hearings
7.1 Authorize a purchase order to Ten-8 Fire Equipment Inc. of Bradenton FL, for the
purchase of two new Pierce Velocity Pumpers and one Pierce Tractor Drawn Aerial in
the amount of$4,378,595.86 pursuant to Clearwater Code of Ordinances Section
2.563(1)(c) Piggyback; declare G3406 (tiller), G2776 (pumper), G3964 (pumper) surplus
effective upon receipt of the purchased apparatus and authorize disposal at auction or
trade-in, whichever is deemed to be in the best interest of the City, pursuant to Code of
Ordinances Section 2.623 (7) and (8) and authorize the appropriate officials to execute
same.
Clearwater Fire and Rescue is requesting authorization to purchase one Pierce
Tractor Drawn Aerial (tiller) and two Heavy-Duty Pierce Pumpers (engines).
Upon receipt of the new Pierce Tractor Drawn Aerial (T45), current tiller T45
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City Council Meeting Minutes April 3, 2025
(G4503), a 2017 Pierce Velocity Tiller, will move to reserves and reserve unit
RT45 (G3406), a 2006 Pierce Dash Tiller, will be retired (surplus).
Upon receipt of the new Pierce Velocity Pumper (E44), current frontline engine
E44 (G4343), a 2015 Pierce Velocity Pumper, will move to reserves and
reserve unit RE1 (G2776), a 2003 Pierce Enforcer Pumper, will be retired
(surplus).
Upon receipt of the new Pierce Velocity Pumper (E46), current frontline E46
(G4117), a 2015 Pierce Velocity Pumper, will move to reserves and reserve unit
RE2 (G3964), a 2013 Pierce Velocity Pumper, will be retired (surplus).
Authorization to piggyback off Sourcewell contract#113021-OKC valid through
February 10, 2026, is requested. This piggyback contract provides a 5.5%
discount off MSRP. Ten-8 Fire & Safety, LLC is an authorized dealer under this
contract.
The total purchase price for the three apparatus is $4,435,595.86. The City is
receiving a multi-unit discount of$57,000.00 for purchasing all three apparatus,
for a total purchase price of$4,378,595.86.
One Pierce Enforcer Tiller $2,157,264.00
Two Pierce Velocity Pumpers $2,278,331.86
Total before discount $4,435,595.86
Multi-unit discount ($57,000.00)
Total purchase price $4,378,595.86
The Department has determined the Heavy-Duty Pierce Velocity Pumpers built
by Pierce Manufacturing meets the operational needs of the Department. A
heavy-duty velocity pumper provides exceptional pumping water capability,
enhanced storage capability, lower vehicle profile, and will significantly up-grade
the abilities of the engine it replaces. Each fire station has an engine and the
continued purchase of this type of apparatus provides for streamlined
maintenance and familiarity.
The Department has been using a tiller truck at FS45 for responses to the
downtown area and beach areas as it provides exceptional turning radius
capabilities, enhanced storage capabilities, more versatility in heavy traffic,
maneuverable in tight spaces and provides significant up-graded abilities to
compliment the ladder truck used at FS48.
The City will be reimbursed by the County for a portion of the purchase,
approximately 11.67%, as the apparatus will support fire operations in the
unincorporated areas of the Clearwater Fire District.
Estimated annual operating costs in the department's annual operating budget
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include fuel and routine garage charges for operating the new apparatus.
Garage charges on the new apparatus are expected to be less than on the
replaced apparatus.
Early ordering of this apparatus is necessary due to the estimated three-year
build time and the built by and shipped time from the manufacturer is
approximately 52 months after the Company receives the City's acceptance of
the Proposal. We will work with the vendor to ensure receipt of apparatus is
delivered when funds are budgeted and available. Funding for the tiller (T45) will
be available in FY30, funding for the engines is available in FY28 (E44) and
FY29 (E46).
In the event that the City cancels the order before completion, Ten-8 may
charge a cancellation fee based on the costs incurred by the manufacturer.
The cancellation fee schedule is: (a) 12% of the purchase price after the order
is accepted and entered into manufacturer's system; (b) 22% of the purchase
price after completion of approval drawings by the City, and; (c) 32% of the
purchase price upon any material requisition made by the manufacturer. The
cancellation fee will increase in excess of(c) as additional costs are incurred by
manufacturer and Ten-8 as the order progresses through engineering and into
the manufacturing process.
APPROPRIATION CODE AND AMOUNT:
Funding for the engine purchases are budgeted in capital project 91218, Fire
Engine Replacement, in fiscal years 2027/28 and 2028/29. A mid-year budget
amendment will transfer $150,000 in General Fund revenues to project 91218,
Fire Engine Replacement from project 91264, Fire Hose Replacement, to
provide the remaining funding needed for the purchase of velocity pumpers
(leaving only Penny and county reimbursement revenues in future years).
Funding for the tiller purchase is budgeted in fiscal years 2028/29 and 2029/30
(C2401-Ladder Truck Replacement). The proposed fiscal year 2025/26 capital
improvement budget will include an increase to future Penny funding in the tiller
project to provide total City funding needed for this purchase (an increase of
$485,500, to be fully funded by Penny and county reimbursement revenues in
future years). Project C2509, FD Aerial Tiller Replacement, will be established
in the current fiscal year to account for this purchase (to better title the project
and account for the proper fiscal year created).
These projects are funded with Penny for Pinellas, County Fire Tax, and
General Fund revenues.
STRATEGIC PRIORITY:
1.4 Foster safe and healthy communities in Clearwater through first-class
public safety and emergency response services.
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One individual questioned the purchase and suggested the City wait until
a permanent Fire Chief is hired.
One individual spoke in support.
Councilmember Cotton moved to authorize a purchase order to
Ten-8 Fire Equipment Inc. of Bradenton FL, for the purchase of
two new Pierce Velocity Pumpers and one Pierce Tractor Drawn
Aerial in the amount of$4,378,595.86 pursuant to Clearwater
Code of Ordinances Section 2.563(1)(c) Piggyback; declare G3406
(tiller), G2776 (pumper), G3964 (pumper) surplus effective upon
receipt of the purchased apparatus and authorize disposal at
auction or trade-in, whichever is deemed to be in the best
interest of the City, pursuant to Code of Ordinances Section
2.623 (7) and (8) and authorize the appropriate officials to
execute same. The motion was duly seconded and carried
unanimously.
7.2 Declare as surplus and approve the Sale of City of Clearwater improved S Garden
Avenue Right of Way to the sole adjacent landowner Church of Scientology Flag Services
as further defined "All of the right-of-way (ROW) of Garden Avenue abutting lots 6-11
together with that portion abutting the vacated 15-foot alley lying between lots 10 and 11
of Court Square Subdivision as recorded in Plat Book 5, Page 53 of the Public Records
of Pinellas County, Florida," containing 0.65 Acres ±, and authorize the appropriate
officials to execute same. (APH)
On December 5, 2024, the Church of Scientology Flag Service Organization
submitted an application to vacate City ROW, located at South Garden Avenue
between Court Street and Franklin Street to develop the parcel into an Entry
Plaza and Performance Hall with acceptance of all City contingencies as they
may apply. The Buyer's design firm shared a concept site plan that may not
necessarily represent the final project site design.
On March 17, 2025, City Council approved at 1 st reading, the vacation of this
portion of Garden Avenue. The next step in the process is for Council's
consideration of the negotiated sale and surplus of this improved ROW.
The City is the fee-simple owner of this land by statute since the right of way
has been fully improved and maintained for a significant period. The area
proposed to be vacated contains .65 acres more or less, including 22 city-paid
parking spaces.
The following mutually agreed-upon Terms and Conditions should be
mentioned:
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Purchase Price: The purchase price of this ROW shall be the full appraised
value of One Million Three Hundred Seventy-Five ($1,375,000.00) dollars.
Appraised Market Value: The ROW current market value is one million three
hundred seventy-five thousand dollars ($1,375.000.00) by Richard Tobias, a
Florida MAI-certified licensed appraiser.
Special Warranty Deed: Both parties have agreed to issue and accept this
deed type.
Blanket Utility Easement Reservation: This open-ended clause protects all
current and planned future utility relocations at no cost to the city. The
reservation will terminate upon City approvals.
Parking Revenue: The City has full use with associated payments until such
time a Temporary Construction Easement (TCE) has been properly issued.
Right of Inspection, Buyer's Termination & Indemnification: The applicant has up
to 60 days after the execution of this Contract to complete its "Inspection
Period". The applicant may "Terminate" this Contract during its inspection
period for any reason, or for no reason. This Agreement and its companion
Vacation Ordinance 9812-25 shall be Null and Void upon any termination.
Indemnification: The applicant agrees to indemnify, protect, defend, and or hold
the Seller (City) harmless from all circumstances to include City attorney fees.
Frontier Communication Objection Letter - The buyer received a "Letter of
Objection" and agrees to either pay to relocate Frontier utilities or grant an
Easement to Frontier.
Building Permit Times & Extension Fee: The parties have mutually agreed that
the applicant will obtain all necessary "Building Permits" on or before December
31, 2029, and substantially complete construction to the degree of"beneficial
occupancy" on or before December 31, 2031. Should this not occur, the
applicant can two times extend this agreement by an "Extension Fee" to the
City of three hundred thousand ($300,000.00) dollars by December 31 of that
calendar year preceding that extension year. Should the applicant decline or not
timely make this payment, except by City default, then all City pre & post
Agreements shall terminate. If the final related Closing does not occur by
December 31, 2033, the City has the unilateral right to terminate this Contract
and its companion Vacation without penalty.
City staff have reviewed and approve this contingent Surplus and Sale.
STRATEGIC PRIORITY:
1. High Performing Government: Embrace a culture of innovation that rives
continuous improvement and successfully service all our customers.
2. Community Well-Being: Preserve community livability through responsible
development standards, proactive code compliance, and targeted revitalization.
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The City Manager said the Church of Scientology (Church) has been
planning to build a large event hall on the property just south of the
Flag building. As part of the project approval process, the Church
submitted in December a vacation right-of-way application for a one
block portion of Garden Avenue. The City is required to respond to that
vacation request. She said upon Legal review, it was determined by
operation of law, the City has title to that parcel and in order to vacate the
right-of-way, the City would have to sell or trade the property that is a
reflection of market value. The City is also required to post the property
for 30 days to determine if other interest exists. She said Council
unanimously directed her to engage in negotiations with the Church
regarding the purchase and sale of this portion of Garden Avenue. She
worked individually with Council to seek their input and priorities before
opening negotiations. She said during negotiations she advocated the
priorities of every councilmember. Unfortunately, the Church did not agree to
all of the priorities. Given the historical and community interest surrounding
this issue, staff anticipated a large range of perspectives, opinions, and
challenges that brought forth the community and Council as to what an
appropriate deal would look like. She said what is being brought forward
today was the result of those negotiations and meets the majority of the
broad goals set by Council. The item before Council provides the City a
fair market price, which has been validated by three appraisals, creates
new green space that will be open to the public, and the property will not
exchange ownership until the project is completed.
The Council recessed from 8:20 p.m. to 8:35 p.m.
Twenty-two individuals spoke in opposition.
Seven individuals spoke in support.
One individual questioned if there was an alternative.
Two individuals submitted eComments in opposition (see pages 20-21).
Six individuals submitted emails in opposition (see pages 24-36).
In response to a question, the City Attorney said it is up to Council's
discretion when to hear alternate proposals. He said anyone who wants to
make a proposal is entitled to be heard before Council.
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City Council Meeting Minutes April 3, 2025
There was council consensus to hear the alternate proposal.
Mac Dixon Memorial Project Representative Brooks Gibbs said he was not
aware of the bid process until he read a comment in the paper by Barbara
Sorey Love that suggested the subject site be used to honor the community's
African American heritage. He presented an alternate proposal, the Mac
Dixon Memorial Garden would honor Mac Dixon, a local pioneer who has
inspired many in Clearwater and the North Greenwood Community.
In response to questions, Mr. Gibbs said the site is approximately.04
acres and the intent is to keep Garden Avenue a one-way
thoroughfare. The proposed park would honor seven heroes of the
African American community and include vintage playground
equipment. He said the proposal being considered by Council provides
payment until the end of construction. The alternate proposal would be
completed in three years or less. The alternate proposal contemplates
a partnership with Parks and Recreation, but the organization is open to
paying for the maintenance costs. Mr. Gibbs said he has secured
$500,000. The City Attorney said, as drafted, the proposal before Council
contemplates the funds transfer at closing, which is typical of most real
estate transactions. In order to extend the closing, which is currently
required to occur by the end of 2031, the Church would have to pay
$300,000 each year. The City Attorney said the transfer of property would
not occur until the project is complete. He said the City could withdraw
from the agreement if the Church failed to complete the project within the
timeline and they did not pay the extension fee. A temporary construction
easement will be provided when the Church's building permit is
approved. The City Attorney said the Church could not build anything on
Garden Avenue until they have title to the land.
A concern was expressed regarding the Parks and Recreation
Department absorbing another park.
In response to questions, the City Attorney said the City Council has the
discretion to extend the proposal submission deadline. The procedural
aspects of the noticing and advertising are governed by the Community
Redevelopment Act because the site is located in Downtown, which is
located within the Community Redevelopment Agency. The Act requires
minimum advertisement requirements (30 days) but does not prevent the
Council from extending a deadline.
Discussion ensued with a suggestion made that consideration be given
to review the alternate proposal. Comments were made that the site may
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not be the best location for the alternate proposal.
Concerns were expressed that continuing the item will not change that the
site is not the optimal location for the alternate proposal.
The City Clerk said 30 days would be Saturday May 3, 2025. The item
would be heard at the next regularly scheduled council meeting on May
15, 2025.
Vice Mayor Allbritton moved to continue Item 7.2 to May 15, 2025.
The motion was duly seconded and carried with the following
vote:
Ayes: 3 - Mayor Rector, Vice Mayor Allbritton and Councilmember Teixeira
Nays: 2 - Councilmember Cotton and Councilmember Mannino
Councilmember Cotton moved to authorize and direct the City Manager
to conduct discussions and negotiations for Garden Avenue. The
motion was duly seconded and carried unanimously.
8. Second Readings - Public Hearing
8.1 Adopt Ordinance 9812-25 on second reading to vacate city right-of-way as requested by
the applicant Church of Scientology Flag Service Organization to the Southern platted
right-of-way portion of S Garden Avenue as Statute owned in fee-simple by the City of
Clearwater as further defined "Less and except the Southern Right-of-Way portion of
Garden Avenue abutting Lots 6-11 together with that Portion abutting the vacated 15 foot
alley lying between Lots 10 and 11 of Court Square Subdivision" as recorded in Plat
Book 5, Page 53 of the Public Records of Pinellas County, as containing 0.65 acres ± "
and pass Ordinance 9812-25 on first reading.
On December 5, 2024, the Church of Scientology Flag Service Organization, as
represented by Kimley-Horn, submitted an Application to Vacate platted
city-owned ROW. This application was rejected due to the Owner's
unconfirmed signature and Notary deficiencies. On December 14, 2025, said
Application was revised and accepted.
The location of this ROW vacation is (S Garden Ave between Franklin St &
Court St).
This ROW portion is the last parcel for development by assemblage into an
Entry Plaza and Performance Hall.
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The vacated area contains .65 acres more or less plus 22 compensable
city-paid parking spots.
A multi-departmental internal review was completed on January 13, 2025, to
uncover and address concerns.
Said Internal review concerns: Stormwater- concern is a 48-inch gravity-fed
pipe that runs the entire length of the vacated area. Utility- concern is 8-inch
gravity-fed sanitary pipe with laterals that cross over the vacated area. Parking-
by city ordinance, the reimbursement of 22 compensable parking spaces at the
value of$114,400.00 Dollars. ROW/Land Ownership- By Statute to have
improved this platted ROW, the City has now become the fee-simple owner of
this land.
Frontier Communication did make a written Notice of having facilities within this
area on 11/18/24. The applicant's representative has stated that an Easement
will be executed. Said easement will also be included in the ordinance.
The proposed PSTA Park Street Terminal bus routing will also be adversely
affected by the closure of this avenue.
The recorded vacation ordinance will preserve all existing utilities to relocate by
permit at the Applicant's sole expense.
After further negotiations, the City has agreed to conditionally sell this improved
ROW to the applicant upon the following conditions: 1. Said row will become a
friendly outdoor gathering space thereby increasing City green space; 2. All
construction Permits shall be obtained before December 31, 2029; 3. The city
shall continue to collect all associated Parking revenue until such time a "TCE"
is issued; 4. The applicant is confirmed as the adjoining property owner; 5. the
applicant shall pay to relocate all identified city utilities.
Upon Departmental review with having addressed all concerns city staff has
approved this vacation.
STRATEGIC PRIORITY:
High Performing Government: Embrace a culture of innovation that rives
continuous improvement
Preserve community livability through responsible development standards,
proactive code compliance, and targeted revitalization.
Four individuals submitted eComments in opposition (see pages 21-23).
No Action. Item continued to May 15, 2025 due to Item 7.2.
8.2 Adopt Ordinance 9814-25 on second reading, annexing certain real property whose post
office address is 2039 Poinsetta Avenue, Clearwater, FL 33755, into the corporate limits
of the city and redefining the boundary lines of the city to include said addition.
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Ordinance 9814-25 was presented and read by title only.
Councilmember Mannino moved to adopt Ordinance 9814-25 on
second and final reading. The motion was duly seconded and
upon roll call, the vote was:
Ayes: 5 - Mayor Rector, Vice Mayor Allbritton, Councilmember Cotton,
Councilmember Mannino and Councilmember Teixeira
8.3 Adopt Ordinance 9815-25 on second reading, amending the future land use element of
the Comprehensive Plan of the city to designate the land use for certain real property
whose post office address is 2039 Poinsetta Avenue, Clearwater, FL 33755 upon
annexation into the City of Clearwater, as Residential Urban (RU).
Ordinance 9815-25 was presented and read by title only.
Councilmember Cotton moved to adopt Ordinance 9815-25 on
second and final reading. The motion was duly seconded and
upon roll call, the vote was:
Ayes: 5 - Mayor Rector, Vice Mayor Allbritton, Councilmember Cotton,
Councilmember Mannino and Councilmember Teixeira
8.4 Adopt Ordinance 9816-25 on second reading, amending the Zoning Atlas of the city by
zoning certain real property whose post office address is 2039 Poinsetta Avenue,
Clearwater, FL 33755, upon annexation into the City of Clearwater, as Low Medium
Density Residential (LMDR).
Ordinance 9816-25 was presented and read by title only.
Councilmember Teixeira moved to adopt Ordinance 9816-25 on
second and final reading. The motion was duly seconded and
upon roll call, the vote was:
Ayes: 5 - Mayor Rector, Vice Mayor Allbritton, Councilmember Cotton,
Councilmember Mannino and Councilmember Teixeira
8.5 Adopt Ordinance 9819-25 on second reading, amending the City's fiscal year 2024/25
operating budget at first quarter.
Ordinance 9819-25 was presented and read by title only.
Councilmember Teixeira moved to adopt Ordinance 9819-25 on
second and final reading. The motion was duly seconded and
upon roll call, the vote was:
Page 15
City of Clearwater
City Council Meeting Minutes April 3, 2025
Ayes: 5 - Mayor Rector, Vice Mayor Allbritton, Councilmember Cotton,
Councilmember Mannino and Councilmember Teixeira
8.6 Adopt Ordinance 9820-25 on second reading, amending the City's fiscal year 2024/25
capital improvement budget at first quarter.
Ordinance 9820-25 was presented and read by title only.
Vice Mayor Allbritton moved to adopt Ordinance 9820-25 on
second and final reading. The motion was duly seconded and
upon roll call, the vote was:
Ayes: 5 - Mayor Rector, Vice Mayor Allbritton, Councilmember Cotton,
Councilmember Mannino and Councilmember Teixeira
8.7 Continue to April 17, 2025: Adopt Ordinance 9805-25 on second reading, amending the
Community Development Code to establish standards for artificial turf, require
landscaped areas in front yards for residentially zoned properties, and make other
associated updates. (TA2024-07002)
No action taken.
9. City Manager Reports — None.
10. City Attorney Reports — None.
11. Other Council Action
11.1Water Treatment - Councilmember Cotton
Councilmember Cotton thanked the presenters who came at the work
session. He reviewed several of the adverse effects associated with
ingesting fluoridated water and requested consideration to remove
fluoride from the City's drinking water.
Ten individuals spoke in support.
Two individuals spoke in opposition.
One individual submitted an email in support (see page 38).
Page 16
City of Clearwater
City Council
Meeting Minutes April 3, 2025
One individual submitted an email in opposition (see page 37).
Discussion ensued with comments made that credible studies show
fluoridated water is safe as long as the fluoridation is at the safe level and
that the matter should be addressed by the State as the regulating
agency. It was stated adding fluoride to the City's water should not be
added without consent as it is a personal choice.
Councilmember Cotton moved to remove Fluoride from the
Clearwater water system. The motion was duly seconded and
failed with the following vote:
Ayes: 2 - Vice Mayor Allbritton and Councilmember Cotton
Nays: 3 - Mayor Rector, Councilmember Mannino and Councilmember Teixeira
12. Closing comments by Councilmembers (limited to 3 minutes) - None.
13. Closing Comments by Mayor - None.
14. Adjourn
Attest
The meeting adjourned at 11:21 p.m.
Mayor
City of Clearw
Page 17
City of Clearwater
City Council on 2025-04-03 6:00 PM
Meeting Time: 04-03-25 18:00
eComments Report
Meetings k,
f,„Ornrit,c3ri:M,
City Council on 2025-04-03 6:00 PM 04-03-25 41 6 0 6 0
18:00
Sentiments for All Meetings
The following graphs display sentiments for comments that have location data. Only locations of users who have commented
will be shown.
Overall Sentiment
ME Support (ON MINIM Oppose (100%) MIN Neutral (0%)
MINIM No Response (0%)
City Council on 2025-04-03 6:00 PM
04-03-25 18:00
Agenda Name
7.2 ID#25-0263 Declare as surplus and approve the Sale of City of
Clearwater improved S Garden Avenue Right of Way to the sole adjacent
landowner Church of Scientology Flag Services as further defined "All of
the right-of-way (ROW) of Garden Avenue abutting lots 6-11 together with
that portion abutting the vacated 15 -foot alley lying between lots 10 and
11 of Court Square Subdivision as recorded in Plat Book 5, Page 53 of
the Public Records of Pinellas County, Florida," containing 0.65 Acres ±,
and authorize the appropriate officials to execute same. (APH)
2
0
2
0
8.1 9812-25 2nd Rdg Adopt Ordinance 9812-25 on second reading to 4 0 4 0
vacate city right-of-way as requested by the applicant Church of
Scientology Flag Service Organization to the Southern platted right-of-
way portion of S Garden Avenue as Statute owned in fee -simple by the
City of Clearwater as further defined "Less and except the Southern
Right -of -Way portion of Garden Avenue abutting Lots 6-11 together with
that Portion abutting the vacated 15 foot alley lying between Lots 10 and
11 of Court Square Subdivision" as recorded in Plat Book 5, Page 53 of
the Public Records of Pinellas County, as containing 0.65 acres ±," and
pass Ordinance 9812-25 on first reading.
Sentiments for All Agenda Items
The following graphs display sentiments for comments that have location data. Only locations of users who have commented
will be shown.
Overall Sentiment
MINIM Support (0%) SENN Oppose (100%) =MI Neutral (0%)
NM No Response (0%)
Agenda Item: eComments for 7.2 ID#25-0263 Declare as surplus and approve the Sale of City of Clearwater improved S Garden
Avenue Right of Way to the sole adjacent landowner Church of Scientology Flag Services as further defined "All of the right-of-
way (ROW) of Garden Avenue abutting lots 6-11 together with that portion abutting the vacated 15 -foot alley lying between lots
10 and 11 of Court Square Subdivision as recorded in Plat Book 5, Page 53 of the Public Records of Pinellas County, Florida,"
containing 0.65 Acres t, and authorize the appropriate officials to execute same. (APH)
Overall Sentiment
Support (0%) IM Oppose (100%) MIMI Neutral (0%)
11.1111 No Response (0%)
BG Gibbs
Location:
Submitted At: 2:10pm 04-02-25
Please vote NO for this agenda item. I am connected to interested parties who desire to see this in a public bid to
bid on the property, keep it a through street, and beautify it for the benefit of our downtown community. Thank
you.
RAMONA MCALEESE
Location:
Submitted At: 7:41pm 04-01-25
I am 100% against the Church of Scientology purchasing S. Garden Avenue in downtown Clearwater.
I would like to make three distinct points:
First: have not delivered on past promises
Scientology bought the Ft. Harrison Hotel in 1975 under a false name— "United Churches of Florida", to hide the
fact that it was Scientology. In 1977, the FBI raided Scientology offices and found a top-secret document called
Project Normandy. It said: "obtain[ing] enough data on the Clearwater area to be able to determine what groups
and individuals will need to penetrate and handle in order to establish area control".
The purchase of the Ft. Harrison and the atrocity of the Project Normandy were both findings in the 1982 Clear
Water hearings to the commission. Victims testified for 4 days concerning the horrific abuses and financial crimes
associated with Scientology.
Everything Scientology has done here, has ended up being ONLY to benefit Scientology. This would include the
church and obedient rich Scientologists buying up a vast majority of downtown Clearwater and leaving much of it
empty, so the remaining properties will be continued to be devalued and Scientology will meet its goal of taking
over the entire city. Storefronts sit empty. The city receives almost no tax revenue from any of these buildings
Second: The Council and Pubic has not been advised of the terms of the agreement. There has been no public
participation in the process other than the sales funnel "yeses' presented by the City Manager.
Because the city manager tried to streamline the bumble that is Scientology's game plan in most instances,
NOBODY, not public or commission personnel know in writing exactly what Scientology wants overall. This is a
very bad plan at best and a violation of the Florida Sunshine statutes and a violation of the rights of citizens at
worst.
As per Florida Law 336.10 Closing and abandonment of roads publication. There are requirements such as a
site appraisal and justification that is n the best public interest. The public and council has not been advised of
either of these conditions
Third: Scientology has been civilly and criminally charged with abuses and crimes against humanity. Repeatedly,
we have seen evidence of suspicious deaths, human trafficking issues, R1 visa violations, sexual abuse coverup
allegations, threats, coercion, child labor atrocities, etc. We have heard repeated stories of massive overcrowding
of staff. We have heard stories of locked buildings with many occupants, children doing construction jobs, and all
staff doing construction jobs with no PPE.
Empty promises, deals made behind the scenes and a reputation of "monsters' hiding in or midst is not the way to
revitalize a dead city. vibrant Tourism, welcoming businesses, beautiful beaches, a clean environment, ready to
thrive is what we need for a true revitalization, not more of the same. Vote no on this second reading.
Agenda Item: eComments for 8.1 9812-25 2nd Rdg Adopt Ordinance 9812-25 on second reading to vacate city right-of-way as
requested by the applicant Church of Scientology Flag Service Organization to the Southern platted right-of-way portion of S
Garden Avenue as Statute owned in fee -simple by the City of Clearwater as further defined "Less and except the Southern
Right -of -Way portion of Garden Avenue abutting Lots 6-11 together with that Portion abutting the vacated 15 foot alley Iii=¢
between Lots 10 and 11 of Court Square Subdivision" as recorded in Plat Book 5, Page 53 of the Public. kss e,id F
County, as containing 0.65 acres ±," and pass Ordinance 9812-25 on first reading.
Overall Sentiment
Support (0%) NEM Oppose (100%) MN Neutral (0%)
I1111111•1 No Response (0%)
BG Gibbs
Location:
Submitted At: 2:08pm 04-02-25
Please vote NO on this agenda item. We would like to see this property available for public bid. I am connected to
interested parties who desire to keep it a thorough street and beautify it as an integral part of our downtown.
Thank you.
Amy Margolin
Location:
Submitted At: 10:04am 04-02-25
I am vehemently opposed to the vacating of the right of way portion of South Garden Street to Scientology, a child
trafficking cult that has totally subverted your government . Please remember they used a false name to purchase
the Fort Harrison Hotel. Additionally, they have safepointed you by buying influence into your government with
their use of front groups . You might think they're nice and do well for Clearwater, but people thought that Ted
Bundy was nice and charming. If you go forward all you will be doing is making your city look more like Cultwater.
As a tourist I choose not to spend my money on a creepy city that is letting itself become a Vatican City full of
empty buildings that add no value to your tax base and further burden Clearwater residents. I cannot support a
city that is allowing a criminal organization that has trafficked children and harassed and fair gamed its critics
with its harassment tactics. You must be in a bubble if you think that passing this agenda item is a good idea.
Additionally, when this criminal cult is finally taken down all of you will have a terrible legacy and should be
displayed in a gallery of a Survivors of Scientology Museum showing your enabling of this human rights/crimes
against humanity cult. Just like there is Yad Vashem in Israel for Holocaust survivors there should be a museum
in Clearwater instead in that site for Survivors of Scientology to outline their RPF/Concentration Camp system.
Again, do not sell that street to Scientology and remember the children who were and are currently being abused
and trafficked in Scientology. Be on the right side of history.
RAMONA MCALEESE
Location:
Submitted At: 7:42pm 04-01-25
I am 100% against the Church of Scientology purchasing S. Garden Avenue in downtown Clearwater.
I would like to make three distinct points:
First: have not delivered on past promises
Scientology bought the Ft. Harrison Hotel in 1975 under a false name— "United Churches of Florida", to hide the
fact that it was Scientology. In 1977, the FBI raided Scientology offices and found a top-secret document called
Project Normandy. It said: "obtain[ing] enough data on the Clearwater area to be able to determine what groups
and individuals will need to penetrate and handle in order to establish area control".
The purchase of the Ft. Harrison and the atrocity of the Project Normandy were both findings in the 1982 Clear
Water hearings to the commission. Victims testified for 4 days concerning the horrific abuses and financial crimes
associated with Scientology.
Everything Scientology has done here, has ended up being ONLY to benefit Scientology. This would include the
church and obedient rich Scientologists buying up a vast majority of downtown Clearwater and leaving much of it
empty, so the remaining properties will be continued to be devalued and Scientology will meet its goal of taking
over the entire city. Storefronts sit empty. The city receives almost no tax revenue from any of these buildings
Second: The Council and Pubic has not been advised of the terms of the agreement. There has been no public
participation in the process other than the sales funnel "yeses' presented by the City Manager.
Because the city manager tried to streamline the bumble that is Scientology's game plan in most instances,
NOBODY, not public or commission personnel know in writing exactly what Scientology wants overall. This is a
very bad plan at best and a violation of the Florida Sunshine statutes and a violation of the rights of citizens at
worst.
As per Florida Law 336.10 Closing and abandonment of roads publication. There are requirements such as a
site appraisal and justification that is n the best public interest. The public and council has not been advised of
either of these conditions
Third: Scientology has been civilly and criminally charged with abuses and crimes against humanity. Repeatedly,
we have seen evidence of suspicious deaths, human trafficking issues, R1 visa violations, sexual abuse coverup
allegations, threats, coercion, child labor atrocities, etc. We have heard repeated stories of massive overcrowding
of staff. We have heard stories of locked buildings with many occupants, children doing construction jobs, and all
staff doing construction jobs with no PPE.
Empty promises, deals made behind the scenes and a reputation of "monsters' hiding in or midst is not the way to
revitalize a dead city. vibrant Tourism, welcoming businesses, beautiful beaches, a clean environment, ready to
thrive is what we need for a true revitalization, not more of the same. Vote no on this second reading.
Sandra McLean
Location:
Submitted At: 6:52pm 04-01-25
got an error so I am sending this again in case it was not received
I am diametrically opposed to the Church of Scientology purchasing S. Garden Avenue in downtown Clearwater.
would like to address three areas I find important:
1. Non delivery on past promises
Ft. Harrison Hotel was purchased in 1975 under a false name "United Churches of Florida", in order to hide the
fact that it was Scientology. In 1977, the FBI found a top-secret document called Project Normandy when they
raided Scientology. Quote "obtain[ing] enough data on the Clearwater area to be able to determine what groups
and individuals will need to penetrate and handle in order to establish area control".
The purchase of the Ft. Harrison and the atrocity of the Project Normandy were both findings in the 1982 Clear
Water hearings to the commission. Many former Scientology members/victims of the horrific abuses and financial
crimes associated with Scientology testified for several days.
Look at the lack of tax revenue from all the buildings rich Scientologists have purchased in and around your city,
leaving Clearwater Downtown a ghost town instead of a thriving coastal beach community. Any business buying
into your area will be paying money directly into the pockets of those people and that goes straight into
Scientology's pocket. This devalues any surrounding properties in your area not owned by Scientology leaving
the window open for them to take over your entire beautiful city of Clearwater.
Everything Scientology does only benefits Scientology.
2. The Council and Pubic has not been advised of the terms of the agreement. There has been no public
participation in the process other than the sales funnel "yeses' presented by the City Manager.
The City Manager and City Attorney have presented a bad deal to the council to try and push through
Scientology's terrible game plan, NOBODY, not public or commission personnel know in writing exactly what
Scientology wants overall. This is a violation of the Florida Sunshine statutes and a violation of the rights of
citizens at worst.
Where are the environment case studies, the registered architectural & engineer drawings, the budget
submission, the project timeline, utility company inspections for electrical, plumbing and gas. Bids from
contractors all to be vetted & approved by the city before anything begins. Insurance in accordance with State of
Florida laws and regulations. Financial statements, tax filings of the purchaser for the past several years.
As per Florida Law 336.10 Closing and abandonment of roads publication. There are requirements such as a
site appraisal and justification that is n the best public interest. The public and council has not been advised of
either of these conditions
3. Scientology has been civilly and criminally charged with abuses and crimes against humanity, let's not forget
Lisa McPherson and Whitny Mills wrongful deaths. Currently the leader of Scientology, David Miscavige is
named in two cases of child abuse and human trafficking in Los Angeles. Not to mention R1 visa violations,
sexual abuse coverup allegations, threats, coercion, child labor atrocities, etc. The labour standard board of
Quebec, Canada found Scientology guilty of unfair wages and vacation pay, seeking a total of $986,000 in unpaid
wages. In a recent case in Los Angeles a staff member testified to only receiving $47 a week for 70 hours of
labour. Complete violation of State labour laws.
Unfulfilled past promises, secret behind the scenes deals and a reputation of "monsters' hiding in our midst is not
the way to revitalize a dead city. As long as Scientology has a hold of your Clearwater City Council, your tourism
will be dead. You need thriving businesses, bodies on your beautiful beaches, for a true revitalization, not more of
this same old same old from Scientology. Vote no on this second reading. Pickle ball courts can be financed by
means other than selling up your city to Scientology.
CaII, Rosemarie
From: Pamela Mastruserio <pamelamastruserio@gmail.com>
Sent: Wednesday, April 2, 2025 9:42 PM
To: Call, Rosemarie
Subject: Re: ecomment
CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the City of Clearwater. Do not click links or open attachments unless you
recognize the sender and know the content is safe.
Rose- thank you. I'm not sure what's going on- it's still giving me problems.
Please make sure my comments below are part of the record of the April 3rd Council Meeting.'
"Regarding Agenda Items #9812-25 and #25-0263, I request that the City Council votes "no" to
vacating and selling the Garden Avenue Right -of -Way to Scientology. Thank you.
Pamela Mastruserio
On Wed, Apr 2, 2025 at 9:10 PM Call, Rosemarie <Rosemarie.Call@myclearwater.com> wrote:
Good evening Ms. Mastruserio,
Per Granicus, you are a registered user. If you are logged in, it should accept your comment.
Several comments have been registered (as late as 7:40 pm today) but I have asked IT to check the Granicus
server.
Please email me your comments, I will make sure it is part of the record.
Sincerely,
Rosemarie
From: Pamela Mastruserio <pamelamastruserio@gmail.com>
Sent: Wednesday, April 2, 2025 5:43 PM
To: Castelli, Joelle Wiley <Joelle.Castelli@myClearwater.com>
Cc: Call, Rosemarie <Rosemarie.Call@myClearwater.com>
Subject: Re: ecomment
CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the City of Clearwater. Do not click links or open attachments unless you,
recognize the sender and know the content is safe.
Rose- I did find the validation email in my Spam folder. However, the link does NOT work and when 1
copy and paste the link in my browser it will not let me continue as it says it is not a safe site. What a
hassle!
Pam
On Wed, Apr 2, 2025 at 5:40 PM Castelli, Joelle Wiley <Joelle.Castelli@myclearwater.com> wrote:
Rose, can you help her? I don't have access to this system.
Get Outlook for iOS
From: Pamela Mastruserio <pamelamastruserio@gmail.com>
Sent: Wednesday, April 2, 2025 5:35:23 PM
To: Castelli, Joelle Wiley <Joelle.Castelli@myClearwater.com>
Subject: ecomment
Joelle- I have been trying all afternoon today to leave a comment at the City's ecomment site
regarding an agenda item on tomorrow night's City Council agenda. Each time I request a
validation email to validate my account, it doesn't come- so I request it again. I have done this
numerous times. My email is pamelamastruserio(cr�.gmail.com Can you help?
Thank you
Pamela Mastruserio
2
Call, Rosemarie
From:
Sent:
To:
Subject:
And this one.
Get Outlook for iOS
Castelli, Joelle Wiley
Wednesday, April 2, 2025 6:33 PM
Call, Rosemarie
Fw: My submission for the council meeting would NOT go through
From: Marsha Bentley <bengerman5@aol.com>
Sent: Wednesday, April 2, 2025 6:27:20 PM
To: Castelli, Joelle Wiley <Joelle.Castelli@myClearwater.com>
Subject: My submission for the council meeting would NOT go through
CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the City of Clearwater. Do not click links or open attachments
unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.
Joelle, I am not able to make the meeting on Thursday and have been trying all afternoon to get the comment to
register, but it gets stuck every time with email authentication! it is important that my efforts be heard, so I am
sending my email to you so it can be included in the 7.2 and 8.1 agenda items concerning the selling of S. garden
Aavenue.
thank you for helping me with this matter.
1 -closing off a road that may be needed in flooding rain or hurricane evacuation is wrong.
2- One of Scientology's ploys is to verbally agree to stuff in order to make the deal, then they go back on their
promises. Having that little piece of property so they can LOOK bigger than life and keep everyone else away from
their group is KEY. They are not in it for the long haul friendship with Clearwater -50 years of similar history will
prove that. That piece means everything to them. They will fill their magazine with pictures and propaganda and
then ask for more money from their people. At events In Chicago and Austin last year, they blatantly disobeyed
their event permits and closed streets, etc. against the rules. Both cities were stunned, but it was too late. They
had their event and photos and left the city residents in the dust.
3 -Keeping the present, money making, convenient parking and design an "entrance" to downtown to attract those
going to the beaches, would be a perfect opportunity for a grand first impression and mind changer for those that
would never dare turn right!
5 -Allowing that prominent space to be sold to Scientology and be filled with pillars displaying controversial
Scientology beliefs, or just be controlled by them, would further the reputation of the "creepy","Cultwater" area.
Allowing Scientology to be able to exist and practice WITHIN the downtown and NOT have the Downtown
businesses exist WITHIN the Scientology environment is an important distinction to get right. DO NOT SELL!
6- At Los Angeles' Scientology buildings they are trying to permanently close off a road in much the same manner.
7- In BOTH cases, neither are needed, but owning that space would allow complete privacy and would
strategically work to keep law abiding, tax paying Americans from peacefully protesting and holding signs,
anywhere near their buildings. It would also allow the group to further isolate their members so they cannot talk
to people. Security guards now in both locations physically by the arm, take them inside! What do they have to
hide? Is that what Clearwater is about? Scientology routinely makes false accusations to the local police, tying up
valuable resources. the closures ONLY serve to give the impression that the church is more successful and
important and thus needs even more money, but numbers are down to about 25,000 from maybe 150,000
worldwide in the late 1980's. Scientology says there are 12-14 million members strong! The Clearwater/Tampa
1
Bay Area has about 4,000, but only 2500 in the Clearwater area. The downtown facilities are NOT for the residents
but for high level training only. The money coming with the out of town, mostly foreign guests is almost all spent
within their bubble-room, food, classes, transport, entertainment.
Of the three big annual meetings worldwide, the attendance numbers were anywhere from less than the 2180 that
is max. at Ruth Eckerd Hall, to about 2550 at the Shrine Auditorium in LA, and maybe slightly more at St Hill,
England.
Allowing the church their right to build their auditorium is one thing. Participating in a game that some consider
propaganda and deception is another.
8- If the church is denied the street closure, which should be the case, then they will likely have to have the
entrance of their building either face Franklin St. and the Superpower building, or entrance at the corner of Franklin
and S. Garden, which would provide for the same sized facility and accessibility to the Ft Harrison, parking garage
and Superpower building, but be a compromise to the residents of the city who don't have the same beliefs and
may be triggered by some former experience with the organization. And again, a more modest building orientation
without the use of an unneeded park area would be a balanced stance for the city council to adopt.
9- Because the city has a City Manager who is appointed and not elected, the council has maybe inadvertently
used her to "pre-negotiate" with Scientology. Although it is technically legal to use this avenue in getting around
the Sunshine laws in dealing with Scientology, it ONLY benefits Scientology and NOT the residents and non-
Scientology businesses.
It is important for the credibility of the council, the City Manager, the city as a whole and the reputation of the
church within this community, to have any requests, communications, "pre-negotiation" negotiations, fact finding
and trades/deals, brought to each council meeting as separate agenda items with all the appropriate notice and
documentation just like everyone else does.
With a 50 year history of troubling behavior in this city, concerns and pessimism abound. The city must take the
reins and put the citizens first. But in the past months we have heard each council member had "things they
wanted to see in the deal", but nobody really knows what the deal is, what "street closure" really entails, and are
referred to Scientology.org for aud. Site plan!
Sent from my iPhone
2
CaII, Rosemarie
From: Teagan Novak <teagan.novak@gmail.com>
Sent: Wednesday, April 2, 2025 7:00 PM
To: ClearwaterCouncil
Subject: Street vacation proposal opposition
CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the City of Clearwater. Do not click links or open attachments unless you
recognize the sender and know the content is safe.
Dear Mayor, City Council Members, and City Manager,
I am writing to express my unequivocal opposition to the proposed vacation of public right-of-way to the
Church of Scientology. This isn't just a land use issue...it's a tipping point in what has been a years -long,
calculated effort by Scientology to quietly, and now overtly, take control of Clearwater's downtown.
Let's not pretend we don't know what's going on here.
The Church of Scientology has a long history of deception, broken promises, and covert
manipulation...not just here, but globally. They have plotted what can only be described as a soft coup of
downtown Clearwater, using shell companies and cash deals to purchase vast swaths of real
estate...over 100 properties by some estimates. Many of these buildings sit largely empty. Maintained?
Yes. Available for lease to the general public? No. Is this a coincidence? You'd have to be willfully naive
to think so.
Why are city officials treating Scientology like a normal community partner? What has it ever done to
earn that status? This is not a civic -minded group working to revitalize downtown. This is an insular
organization bent on complete control. Just listen to Scientology leader David Miscavige, who publicly
declared his desire to "make Clearwater the first Scientology city." That's not a metaphor. That's a plan.
You don't need to take my word for it...look around. Look at the license plate readers. The omnipresent
surveillance cameras. The two-way spying equipment. The private investigators. The harassment of
critics. The near-total absence of foot traffic near Scientology buildings. The deliberate effort to keep
outsiders out. Ask yourselves: are these the actions of a church, or of a paranoid regime?
If Scientology were genuinely interested in helping Clearwater thrive, it wouldn't need to wall itself off
behind real estate. It wouldn't need to purchase every surrounding building. It wouldn't need to keep
downtown in a state of stagnation while promising vibrancy. A community partner doesn't suffocate a
city into submission.
And yet, you've rewarded this behavior...not with accountability, but with accommodation.
You've been safe-pointed...a Scientology term for manipulating or neutralizing perceived enemies by
making them feel respected and involved. They've played nice. You took the bait. And now you're about
to hand them the last piece they need to cement their footprint in the heart of the city.
1
This ROW vacation is not an isolated decision. It is a symbolic surrender.
You say you've included "conditions" in the deal. But let's be honest: conditions mean nothing when
dealing with an organization that only respects rules when they serve its goals. If they don't like your
oversight, they'll just wait you out. Scientology has the time, money, and strategy to do so. They'll find
sympathetic candidates to run for office. They'll drown you in legalese. They'll wear you down. And one
day you'll look up and realize the Clearwater you were elected to protect no longer belongs to its people.
You should have listened to Councilmember Mark Bunker. You should have listened to the many ex -
members and whistleblowers who've sounded the alarm for years. You should have done your due
diligence. You didn't.
If you think this land deal will somehow curry favor or "build bridges," I urge you to look at what
Scientology has done in other cities: alienate, isolate, and ultimately dominate. They will do what they
want...always have. The only question is whether you will continue to help them do it.
Vote NO on this ROW vacation.
You can still do the right thing...for Clearwater, for its citizens, and for the future of your city.
Thank you for your consideration,
Concerned citizen of the United States of America
2
CaII, Rosemarie
From:
Sent:
To:
Subject:
Holly Lewis <hollylewismusic@gmail.com>
Monday, March 17, 2025 6:13 AM
ClearwaterCouncil
Item 6.3 9812-25 PLEASE DO NOT LET THIS HAPPEN! SCIENTOLOGY IS A CULT!
CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the City of Clearwater. Do not click links or open attachments unless you
recognize the sender and know the content is safe.
PLEASE DO NOT LET THIS STREET VACATION HAPPEN AS SCIENTOLOGY IS ALREADY TAKING
OVER CLEARWATER, FLA!!!! SCIENTOLOGY IS A CULT THAT SEPARATES FAMILIES, ABUSES
CHILDREN, ABUSES ELDERS, IS A MLM SCAM AND NEEDS TO HAVE IT'S IRS TAX EXEMPT STATUS
REOVKED! PLEASE DO NOT ALLOW THEM FURTHER CONTROL OF CLEARWATER, FLA! THANK
YOU!!!
Clearwater city council agenda. Approve the Right of Way (ROW) Vacation request from the Church
of Scientology Flag Service Organization to vacate the southern portion of South Garden Avenue
between Court Street and Franklin Street, as owned in fee -simple by the City of Clearwater and
recorded in Plat Book 5, Page 53 of the Public Records of Pinellas County, and pass Ordinance 9812-
25 on first reading."
6.3 9812-25 Approve the Right of Way (ROW) Vacation request from the Church of Scientology Flag
Service Organization to vacate the southern portion of South Garden Avenue between Court Street and
Franklin Street, as owned in fee -simple by the City of Clearwater and recorded in Plat Book 5, Page 53 of
the Public Records of Pinellas County, and pass Ordinance 9812-25 on first reading.
File #: 9812-25 Version: 1 Name: Vacation of S Garden Ave.
Type: Ordinance Status: Agenda Ready
File created: 3/7/2025 In control: Public Works
On agenda: 3/17/2025 Final action:
Approve the Right of Way (ROW) Vacation request from the Church of Scientology Flag
Service Organization to vacate the southern portion of South Garden Avenue between Court
Title: Street and Franklin Street, as owned in fee -simple by the City of Clearwater and recorded in
Plat Book 5, Page 53 of the Public Records of Pinellas County, and pass Ordinance 9812-25 on
first reading.
Indexes: 1. High Performing Government , 3. Community Weil -Being
1. Aerial - VAC2025-03 - S Garden Ave ROW.pdf, 2. Exhibits 1-3 - Sketch & Legal - VAC2025-
Attachments: 03 - S Garden Ave.pdf, 3. Frontier Objection Letter - VAC2025- 03 - S Garden Ave ROW.pdf,
4. Site Plan - VAC2025-03 - S Garden Ave ROW.pdf, 5. Ordinance 9812-25.pdf
1
CaII, Rosemarie
From: AuditLA <audit.in.la@gmail.com>
Sent: Wednesday, April 2, 2025 4:05 PM
To: ClearwaterCouncil
Subject: ROW VACATION -oppose
CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the City of Clearwater. Do not click links or open attachments unless you
recognize the sender and know the content is safe.
PUBLIC COMMENT
I am writing to express my unequivocal opposition to the proposed vacation of public right-of-way to the
Church of Scientology. This isn't just a land use issue — it's a tipping point in what has been a years -long,
calculated effort by Scientology to quietly, and now overtly, take control of Clearwater's downtown.
Let's not pretend we don't know what's going on here.
The Church of Scientology has a long history of deception, broken promises, and covert manipulation —
not just here, but globally. They have plotted what can only be described as a soft coup of downtown
Clearwater, using shell companies and cash deals to purchase vast swaths of real estate — over 100
properties by some estimates. Many of these buildings sit largely empty. Maintained? Yes. Available for
lease to the general public? No. Is this a coincidence? You'd have to be willfully naive to think so.
Why are city officials treating Scientology like a normal community partner? What has it ever done to
earn that status? This is not a civic -minded group working to revitalize downtown. This is an insular
organization bent on complete control. Just listen to Scientology leader David Miscavige, who publicly
declared his desire to "make Clearwater the first Scientology city." That's not a metaphor. That's a plan.
You don't need to take my word for it — look around. Look at the license plate readers. The omnipresent
surveillance cameras. The two-way spying equipment. The private investigators. The harassment of
critics. The near-total absence of foot traffic near Scientology buildings. The deliberate effort to keep
outsiders out. Ask yourselves: are these the actions of a church, or of a paranoid regime?
1
If Scientology were genuinely interested in helping Clearwater thrive, it wouldn't need to wall itself off
behind real estate. It wouldn't need to purchase every surrounding building. It wouldn't need to keep
downtown in a state of stagnation while promising vibrancy. A community partner doesn't suffocate a
city into submission.
And yet, you've rewarded this behavior — not with accountability, but with accommodation.
You've been safe -pointed — a Scientology term for manipulating or neutralizing perceived enemies by
making them feel respected and involved. They've played nice. You took the bait. And now you're about
to hand them the last piece they need to cement their footprint in the heart of the city.
This ROW vacation is not an isolated decision. It is a symbolic surrender.
You say you've included "conditions" in the deal. But let's be honest: conditions mean nothing when
dealing with an organization that only respects rules when they serve its goals. If they don't like your
oversight, they'll just wait you out. Scientology has the time, money, and strategy to do so. They'll find
sympathetic candidates to run for office. They'll drown you in legalese. They'll wear you down. And one
day you'll look up and realize the Clearwater you were elected to protect no longer belongs to its people.
You should have listened to Councilmember Mark Bunker. You should have listened to the many ex -
members and whistleblowers who've sounded the alarm for years. You should have done your due
diligence. You didn't.
If you think this land deal will somehow curry favor or "build bridges," I urge you to look at what
Scientology has done in other cities: alienate, isolate, and ultimately dominate. They will do what they
want — always have. The only question is whether you will continue to help them do it.
Vote NO on this ROW vacation.
You can still do the right thing—for Clearwater, for its citizens, and for the future of your city.
2
AuditLA
3
Cali, Rosemarie
From: Hopeful Denizen <hopeful.denizen@gmail.com>
Sent: Wednesday, April 2, 2025 5:08 PM
To: ClearwaterCouncil
Subject: Street Vacation?
CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the City of Clearwater. Do not click links or open attachments unless you
recognize the sender and know the content is safe.
Dear Mayor, City Council Members, and City Manager,
I am horrified that you would allow a street vacation for scientology. Clearwater is already a ghost
town. Scientology buys up the property and it sits empty, as empty as their promises. As Hubbard
said, You don't get rich writing science fiction (he was a wordy science fiction writer). If you want to
get rich, start a religion.' Note that Hubbard died a convicted felon, on drugs and living in a trailer.
You are allowing a cult who has children asking men about their sexual habits while they unzip their
pants, children are *aped, the elderly have their credit cards maxed out by the cult and they are
worked until they fall down, humans are trafficked and their passports and credit cards confiscated,
families are disconnected, and the list goes on. You only need to see LaraFM's story on her YT
channel. Her father, mother and siblings are still in. She is not allowed to talk to them and vice versa.
Liz Ferris whose father is still in. He should be retired and living a nice life, but instead, he works in a
kitchen galley. See Mike Brown's channel and how he got his elderly mother out. Phil Jones whose
children are in. They haven't seen them in years. There are endless suicides because cult members
couldn't leave. That includes Kendrick Moxon's daughter.
I don't know what they have over you. Have they writtens checks to the city? Have you all been
safepointed? They won't sue you even if they threaten it. They don't want to be open to discovery.
Their secrets would come out in the open, and people would find out the truth about them. They
would lose their religious designation and they would crumble as they should.
If you let this happen, you have obviously sold your souls to them.
Regards,
Hope
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Call, Rosemarie
From: The-Witchee-Woman <nancylpyke@gmail.com>
Sent:. Monday, March 17, 2025 12:24 PM
To: ClearwaterCouncil
Subject: 6.3 9812-25
CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the City of Clearwater. Do not click links or open attachments unless you
recognize the sender and know the content is safe.
The fact that Scientology has already shut down the entire city of Clearwater is not enough for this non
tax paying, child trafficking cult, they want to privatise the streets too? WILL VACATION ON
SOUTH GARDEN AVE BETWEEN COURT AND FRANKLIN STREET be the area that this year's recruitment
efforts will take place? Reverting the land to private ownership to terminate the public's right to the
streets?
The state of Florida should be ashamed of themselves. The cat is out of the bag. Stop wasting the
officials, the courts, the tax paying citizens time and money. If you are accepting "gifts" from Scientology
rather than taxes you all, the entire state should prosecuted.
I think I have for 50+ years allowed the non tax paying status of this cult to be the main focus. I realise
now that too is a sham to keep the public from understanding the real horror that is ignored daily. The
children auditing adults, being used as slaves and being groomed before puberty how to get the most out
of the adults they are made to audit. Scientology uses self pleasuring as a crime, think of all the adults
who ask for and pay extra to have a child as an auditor hear ALL of the adult perversions. I have
overlooked the obvious, the sexual abuse of minors is the real "CREED" of this cult. The more perverse
confessions from disturbed Scientologists through auditing is what is keeping this cult financially
solvent. Using children to gather that information, children locked alone in rooms often with pedophiles
talking about their actions, dreams or wants is pure heaven for this cult. Remember, Scientologists are
NOT ALLOWED TO GO TO THE POLICE. If they do, that is a punishable action by
Scientology. Punishments such as a child and convicted pedaphile sharing their jail time with each
other. Buddy up with the person who violates you, as punishment for not doing your job properly as a 12
or 13 year old child. Hubbard was a science fiction author, who was sexually depraved, drug addicted
criminal who conned the lost from the 1970's into thinking Scientology offered them a way to save the
world. The good intentioned jumped at sticking it to society and leaped into Scientology with the dream
that their sacrifice, as they are lead to believe has more power, could safe a world, while being a
hypnotised "free thinker" who holds the power to wipe away all conscious sin, any sin, murder, theft,
elder and child abuse. It was so easy. Sign here, give us all your income, commit credit card fraud or
some thing like that if you are temporarily short of funds. Book a session with whomever you feel most
comfortable with. Everyone is an adult so no,legal problem there. Allow Scientology to brain wash you,
break you down mentally and physically. We will destroy your free cognition. For this commitment
Scientology will give access to our auditing ethics that we say will clear your conscience and green light
you to commit any crime or atrocity against anything or anyone. This submission grants you permission
to do what you want when you want with whom you want guilt free. No atonement as we have already
paid for our sins in the past lives etc. etc. Clear is just an appointment away. Scientology assures you
1
that your choice of auditor (child) will be available regardless of the time of day or condition of the auditor
(child with sleep deprivation, not enough nutrition and absolutely no down time. This cult harvests
children from their families as the younger the person the more easily they are to mould into the non
emotional robot needed to service the paying Scientologist with the need to clear themselves of any sins
or wrong doings. Parents willingly go along as doing so puts themselves in a higher position. In other
words parents who think only of themselves are encouraged to give away a child for the greater
good. Their way of keeping socially higher ranking.
I could go on and on. Suffice it to these simple facts. Children are not adults. Children cannot consent
to agree to contracts of any kind. Scientology is a money and real estate scheme that has been
sanctified by the United States of America for decades. This cult hurts and takes from within their walls,
destroys families and commits crimes against the citizens of this country, daily. This cult encourages
child abuse in every way imaginable. At every age imaginable.
Side note, most of the other countries that Scientology sets up in make these institutions pay taxes. We
the People can't see the light regarding this group's treason, they don't have to pay taxes here. Nor do
the millionaires in Scientology who donate to them. Well done Hubbard, well done.
No, Scientology does not need a tax funded vacation. Clearwater's only outside income is from their
concerts. Non Scientology brave the ghost town known as Clearwater to attend concerts and then flee
back to the safety of their non cult residential areas.
There is nothing, nothing that Scientology needs that any tax payer should be willing to give. Scientology
should be giving back all that it has taken from innocents for years without having to be accountable for
any of it's wrongs.
I am all for having a huge nationwide street party the day that the cult is finally judged for the criminal
institution that it is, and held responsible by the court system for all the wrongs this cult has committed
over 70 plus years.
Cut the grift, there is always some institution or group of power seeking humans that will fill the gap when
Scientology has ended.
No vacation for S Garden Ave. or any place or time that Scientology wishes to take away our freedom.
Thank you,
The Witchee-Woman
#NMKIS
#KIDS CANNOT CONSENT
2
CaII, Rosemarie
From:
Sent:
To:
Cc:
Subject:
wcjonson@icloud.com
Friday, March 28, 2025 4:36 PM
Rector, Bruce; Allbritton, David; Teixeira, Lina; Mannino, Michael; Cotton, Ryan
Call, Rosemarie; Poirrier, Jennifer; Slaughter, Daniel
Fluoridation of Clearwater Water
CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the City of Clearwater. Do not click links or open attachments unless you
recognize the sender and know the content is safe.
Mayor and Council Members,
I am not an attorney so I can't practice Law. I am not a Medical Doctor so I can't write drug prescriptions,
I am not a dentist so I can't testify into the history of children's dental problems growing up.
I can relate my personal experience growing up west of Milwaukee in a community with private water well
systems. When growing up my parents had be brush my teeth every night, but by the time I was in
college my most of my teeth contained fillings. Over the years those fillings leaked and had to be
replaced with expensive crowns. And now some of those crowns have had to be replaced with even
more expensive crowns.
I am reading the book Team of Rivals about Abraham Lincoln. Part of that story relates the public health
challenges of his youth - a time typhoid, smallpox, and childhood diseases. The US has made many
advances in public health over the years, because we have been careful to be science based. Please
listen to science as you consider your obligation to public health in our City's water system.
Best wishes,
Bill Jonson
2694 Redford Ct. W.
Clearwater, FL 33761
727-403-6068
wcjonson@icloud.com
"Say what you mean, mean what you say, and don't say it mean"
1
Call, Rosemarie
From: Chip Abrahamsen <chipabrahamsen@gmail.com>
Sent:. Wednesday, April 2, 2025 5:27 PM
To: ClearwaterCouncil
Cc: Samuel Hutkin
Subject: Fwd: Fluoride
Attachments: May 30 letter to City of Clearwater.docx; Second Thoughts About Fluoride, Scientific
American Jan-08.pdf; Fluoride links.docx
CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the City of Clearwater. Do not click links or open attachments unless you
recognize the sender and know the content is safe.
Fluoride is an antiseptic, toxic to the gut bacteria that keep us healthy. Fluoride was used in the last
century as an effective roach poison. Fluoride toothpastes have warnings stating, "DO NOT SWALLOW!"
The only reason that fluoride is in municipal water supplies is the American Dental Association lobbying
efforts. The ADA receives millions from the industries that would otherwise have to pay much more to
dispose of this toxic waste by-product of aluminum and fertilizer production. Companies like ALCOA.
People with poor dental hygiene may benefit temporarily from the addition of fluoride in their water. But
they will suffer long term, just as someone suffers from long-term use of antibiotics, as resistant
organisms are produced and healthy, probiotic bacteria destroyed. And the vast majority of people will
only suffer from fluoride in the water.
Read the attached files. Stand up to the aluminum industry and the fertilizer industry and the ADA. They
DO NOT have Clearwater citizens' best interests in mind. They are making millions at the expense of the
unsuspecting citizen who trusts their City Council to make decisions that are best for the individual
taxpayer and to protect them from the toxic wastes that industries should be disposing of properly.
Chip Abrahamsen
Clearwater Beach
1
Call, Rosemarie
From:
Sent:
To:
Subject:
Chip Abrahamsen <chipabrahamsen@gmail.com>
Wednesday, April 2, 2025 5:33 PM
ClearwaterCouncil; Samuel Hutkin
Re: Fluoride
CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the City of Clearwater. Do not click links or open attachments unless you
recognize the sender and know the content is safe.
Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. Secretary of the Dept. of Health and Human Services (HHS) has spoken out
against fluoride in municipal water:
https://youtu.be/S9aOnc76gTA?si=Mf6hgfiHG286WG7Q
https://youtu.be/vWUzg0n2OBg?si=JTw FH3pVvdgAY-W
https://youtu.be/rnB-eczEWJM?si=GJLyOG i6q8K38ma
https://youtu.be/nxJ7y rg8GE?si=WOxufKZV4p1 n Lfm
Charles Abrahamsen, Clearwater Beach
On Wed, Apr 2, 2025 at 5:27 PM Chip Abrahamsen <chipabrahamsenCagmail.com> wrote:
Fluoride is an antiseptic, toxic to the gut bacteria that keep us healthy. Fluoride was used in the last
century as an effective roach poison. Fluoride toothpastes have warnings stating, "DO NOT
SWALLOW!"
The only reason that fluoride is in municipal water supplies is the American Dental Association lobbying
efforts. The ADA receives millions from the industries that would otherwise have to pay much more to
dispose of this toxic waste by-product of aluminum and fertilizer production. Companies like ALCOA.
People with poor dental hygiene may benefit temporarily from the addition of fluoride in their water. But
they will suffer long term, just as someone suffers from long-term use of antibiotics, as resistant
organisms are produced and healthy, probiotic bacteria destroyed. And the vast majority of people will
only suffer from fluoride in the water.
Read the attached files. Stand up to the aluminum industry and the fertilizer industry and the ADA. They
DO NOT have Clearwater citizens' best interests in mind. They are making millions at the expense of the
unsuspecting citizen who trusts their City Council to make decisions that are best for the individual
taxpayer and to protect them from the toxic wastes that industries should be disposing of properly.
2
Chip Abrahamsen
Clearwater Beach
3