03/17/2025 City Council Meeting Minutes March 17, 2025
City of Clearwater
Main Library- Council Chambers
100 N. Osceola Avenue
Clearwater, FL 33755
e
Meeting Minutes
Monday, March 17, 2025
6:00 PM
Main Library - Council Chambers
City Council
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City of Clearwater
City Council Meeting Minutes March 17, 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 — Pastor Bob Brubaker from Christ Community Presbyterian Church
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 March Service Awards
The March 2025 Employee of the Month Award was presented to Lisa
Perkins, Clearwater Gas.
The March/April Bimonthly Team Award was presented to the 2025 Chill
Squad: Kyle Wilson and Charles McAbee, Public Utilities.
4.2 Women Making History Month Proclamation, March 2025- Allison Dolan, Clearwater
Historical Society
4.3 Red Star Family Day Proclamation, March 21, 2025 - Jerry Shaffer, Red Star Foundation
4.4 Proclamation for the Fair Housing Symposium, April 2025 - Economic Development &
Housing Staff
5. Approval of Minutes
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City Council Meeting Minutes March 17, 2025
5.1 Approve the minutes of the March 6, 2025 City Council meeting as submitted in written
summation by the City Clerk.
AND
5.2 Approve the minutes of the February 25, 2025 special city council meeting as submitted
in written summation by the City Clerk.
Councilmember Cotton moved to approve the minutes of the March
6, 2025 council meeting and the February 25, 2025 special city
council meeting as submitted in written summation by the City
Clerk. The motion was duly seconded and carried unanimously.
Public Hearings - Not before 6:00 PM
6. Administrative Public Hearings
6.1 Approve amendments to 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 and pass Ordinance 9805-25 on first reading.
(TA2024-07002)
Proposed Ordinance No. 9805-25 contains both City Council and staff-initiated
amendments to the Community Development Code. Amendments initiated by
City Council propose to create regulations to permit the use of artificial turf
citywide including general, location, and minimum design standards, permitting,
installation, inspection, maintenance, and existing artificial turf.
Other staff-initiated amendments are more clean-up amendments consisting of
correcting typographical errors, reordering sections, providing clarification,
adding a provision for existing developed lots, creating a front yard residential
landscaped area requirement, and adding, deleting, or amending definitions as
needed.
The Planning and Development Department has determined that the proposed
text amendments to the Community Development Code are consistent with and
further the goals, objectives, and policies of the Comprehensive Plan and the
Community Development Code.
Staff held a workshop with the Community Development Board (CDB) on
December 17, 2024, to discuss the code amendments related to artificial turf.
Comments received from the board during that meeting were incorporated into
the ordinance prior to the initiation of the public hearing process.
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City Council Meeting Minutes March 17, 2025
The Community Development Board, in its capacity as the Local Planning
Agency (LPA), reviewed the proposed amendments to the Community
Development Code at its meeting on January 21, 2025, and recommended
approval with certain modifications and considerations as follows:
1. Clarify that the requirement to bring existing lots into compliance with the
landscaping standards to the greatest extent practicable if the existing
use is improved or remodeled in a value of 25 percent or more, as
established by Section 3-1202.A.3.a, is applicable to properties other
than single-family or two-family lots.
2. Consider modifying proposed Sections 3-1202.E.2.a.6.v and 3-
1202.E.2.b.3.iv to permit the use of artificial turf in required interior and
central landscape islands.
3. Consider incorporating licensure requirements into proposed Section 3-
1203.E.12 to provide clarity regarding who would qualify as a
"professional with experience in installation of artificial turf'.
Additionally, while not incorporated into the Board's motion for approval, the
Board discussed the desire to allow for independent appraisal to be used for the
determination of 25 percent of the value of the principal structure, in addition to
the value reflected in the property appraiser's records, as established in Section
3-1202.A.3.a.
Proposed Ordinance No. 9805-25 addresses the Board's recommended
clarification detailed in number 1. above. Additionally, staff has incorporated, for
the City Council's consideration, changes to Sections 3-1202.A.3.a. and
3-1401.B.3.a to provide that an independent appraisal may also be used to
determine 25 percent of the value of the primary structure which, if exceeded,
would require improvements to landscaping and parking. The considerations
specified in 2. and 3., are not recommended by city staff to be incorporated into
the ordinance for reasons specified in the staff report.
STRATEGIC PRIORITY:
These proposed amendments support the Environmental Stewardship and
Community Well-Being goals of the city's Strategic Plan by providing
amendments to the Community Development Code that aim to maintain
aesthetic appeal and permit alternative sustainable practices within the city.
Planning and Development Interim Director Lauren Matzke provided a
PowerPoint presentation.
Four individuals spoke in opposition.
Ordinance 9805-25 was presented and read by title only.
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Councilmember Teixeira moved to approve amendments to 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 and pass Ordinance
9805-25 on first 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
6.2 Approve the annexation, initial Future Land Use Map designation of Residential Urban
(RU) and initial Zoning Atlas designation of Low Medium Density Residential District for
2039 Poinsetta Avenue and pass Ordinances 9814-25, 9815-25 and 9816-25 on first
reading. (ANX2025-01001)
This voluntary annexation petition involves a 0.114-acre property consisting of
one parcel of land occupied by a detached dwelling. The property is located on
the east side of Poinsetta Avenue approximately 50 feet north of Idlewild Drive.
The applicant is requesting annexation in order to receive sanitary sewer. The
site is located within an enclave and is contiguous to existing City boundaries to
the west. The property be assigned a Future Land Use Map designation of
Residential Urban (RU) and a Zoning Atlas designation of Low Medium Density
Residential (LMDR).
The Planning and Development Department determined that the proposed
annexation is consistent with the provisions of Community Development Code
Section 4-604.E as follows:
• The city has adequate capacity to serve this property with sanitary
sewer, solid waste, police, fire and Emergency Medical Services (EMS).
The property currently receives water service from the city of Clearwater
and the closest sanitary sewer line is located in the adjacent Poinsetta
Avenue right-of-way. The applicant has paid the city's sewer impact and
assessment fees and is aware of the additional costs to extend city
sewer service to this property. Collection of solid waste will be provided
by the city of Clearwater. The property is located within Police District II
and service will be administered through the district headquarters
located at 645 Pierce Street. Fire and EMS will be provided to this
property by Station #51 located at 1712 Overbrook Avenue. Therefore,
the proposed annexation will not have an adverse effect on public
services and their levels of service; and
• The proposed annexation is consistent with and promotes the following
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objective and policy of Clearwater 2045, the city's Comprehensive Plan:
Objective PI 9.1 Continue to work with Pinellas County in the
orderly annexation of the city's existing enclaves.
Policy PI 9.1.2 Continue to process voluntary annexations for
single-family residential properties upon request.
• The proposed Residential Urban (RU) Future Land Use Map designation
is consistent with the current Countywide Plan designation of the
property. This designation primarily permits residential uses at a density
of 7.5 units per acre. The proposed Zoning Atlas designation is the Low
Medium Density Residential (LMDR) District. The use of the subject
property is consistent with the uses allowed in the Low Medium Density
Residential (LMDR) District and the property exceeds the District's
minimum dimensional requirements. The proposed annexation is
therefore consistent with the Countywide Plan and the City's
Comprehensive Plan and Community Development Code; and
• The property proposed for annexation is contiguous to existing City
boundaries to the west therefore, the annexation is consistent with
Florida Statutes Chapter 171.044.
STRATEGIC PRIORITY:
This annexation petition supports the Deliver Effective and Efficient Services by
Optimizing City Assets and Resources goal of the city's Strategic Plan by
reducing enclaves and delivering city services to properties within the city's
service boundary. This petition also supports Ensure Exceptional Communities
and Neighborhoods Where Everyone Can Thrive goal by better unifying
neighborhoods and reducing issues with multiple jurisdictions.
Ordinances 9814-25, 9815-25 and 9816-25 were presented and read
by title only.
Vice Mayor Allbritton moved to approve the annexation, initial
Future Land Use Map designation of Residential Urban (RU) and
initial Zoning Atlas designation of Low Medium Density Residential
District for 2039 Poinsetta Avenue and pass Ordinances 9814-25,
9815-25 and 9816-25 on first 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
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6.3 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.
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.
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.
A multi-departmental internal review was completed on January 13, 2025. Said
Internal review identified the following utilities or interests on the property:
Stormwater- a 48-inch gravity-fed pipe runs the entire length of the vacated
area.
Utility- an 8-inch gravity-fed sanitary sewer pipe with laterals crosses over the
vacated area.
Parking- there are 22 paid parking spaces.
Planning & Development - Vacation of this ROW is inconsistent with the
Clearwater 2045 Comprehensive Plan Mobility Policies M 1.1.14 and M 1.1.15
and the Downtown Redevelopment Plan, Goal 2 which promotes a connected
network with mobility choices and Objective 2A which discourages the vacation
of streets unless new public streets and alleys are constructed to replace and
service the function of the street being vacated; promotes retaining the existing
street grid. However, while the vacation of this right-of-way would be
inconsistent with certain policies, the purpose of the request would support
other policies. The conceptual site plan appears to maintain access across
Garden Avenue for pedestrians, although this would be privatized space, and
the current design does not necessarily indicate whether anyone could
use/traverse. There may be modifications that could be made to the site plan to
better meet the Downtown District standards.
Frontier Communication - submitted a written Notice of having facilities within
this area on 11/18/24. The Applicant's representative has stated that an
Easement in favor of Frontier will be executed. The proposed ordinance
reserves utility easements until such time as new easements as necessary are
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conveyed.
PSTA- the PSTA's Proposed Multi-Modal Transit Center had contemplated bus
routing using the subject ROW as an alternative option. PSTA has been
advised that this application is pending.
The Applicant seeks to vacate this ROW portion as part of an assemblage for
development of an Entry Plaza and Performance Hall. Should Council approve
to vacate the ROW, Council will consider at the Council work session and
Council meeting on March 31, 2025, and April 3, 2025, (respectively), the
negotiated conditional sale of this improved ROW in the amount of$1,375,000
to be paid by the Applicant to the City as fair market value for the Property.
Conditions include: 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 if necessary; 6. This vacation Ordinance would
not take effect until an Approved Deed is executed and recorded in the Public
records of Pinellas County in order to ensure that all conditions are met.
Upon Departmental review with having addressed all concerns city staff
presents this vacation for Council consideration.
STRATEGIC PRIORITY:
1. High Performing Government: Embrace a culture of innovation that rives
continuous improvement
2. Preserve community livability through responsible development standards,
proactive code compliance, and targeted revitalization.
Nine individuals spoke in opposition.
Four individuals spoke in support.
Two individuals submitted emails in opposition (see pages 22-24).
In response to comments, the City Attorney said Florida law requires the
City to advertise for 30 days prior to disposing any real estate within the
community redevelopment area in which this is located. The
advertisement indicates that there will be a public hearing on April 3,
2025 as to the sale agreement, if Council approves the vacation
ordinance on first reading tonight. The current version of the contract has
the purchase price that was approved by the City Manager and requires
that a majority of Garden Avenue be developed as green space and is
subject to Council's decision or approval. He said, as the City Attorney,
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he has confirmed that the subject price meets the city charter
requirement that the sale price be at least fair market value. The City
Attorney said there will be no closing on the real estate until after the
building permits are obtained and the building is substantially complete.
As currently drafted, the Buyer is required to obtain building permits and
substantially complete the project by the end of 2029, if not, the Buyer
has the option to purchase contract extensions for$300,000 a year. He
said the right to purchase extensions expires in 2033 and the extensions
are non-refundable.
Discussion ensued with concerns expressed that the privatization of the
road goes against the City's plan, that the vacation will impact PSTA's new
intermodal center and the new city hall site, and that the vacation is not
needed to develop the site. It was suggested that an activation agreement
accompany the vacation request that includes a high impact and open
access initiative.
Ordinance 9812-25 was presented and read by title only.
Councilmember Mannino moved to approve the Right of Way
Vacation request from the 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. The motion was duly seconded and upon roll call, the motion
carried with the following vote:
Ayes: 3 - Vice Mayor Allbritton, Councilmember Cotton and Councilmember
Mannino
Nays: 2 - Mayor Rector and Councilmember Teixeira
6.4 Amend the City's fiscal year 2024/25 operating and capital improvement budgets at first
quarter and pass Ordinances 9819-25 and 9820-25 on first reading.
The fiscal year 2024/25 operating and capital improvement budgets were
adopted in September 2024 by ordinances 9793-24 and 9794-24. Section
2.521 of the City's Code of Ordinances requires the City Manager to prepare a
quarterly report detailing income, expenditure estimates, collections, the
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explanation of significant variances, as well as the financial status of all capital
improvement projects.
STRATEGIC PRIORITY:
The budgeting process aligns resource allocation to the advancement of our
community in all five strategic priorities: high performing government, economic
and housing opportunity, community well-being, environmental stewardship,
and superior public service.
Ordinances 9819-25 and 9820-25 were presented and read by title
only.
Councilmember Cotton moved to amend the City's fiscal year
2024/25 operating and capital improvement budgets at first quarter
and pass Ordinances 9819-25 and 9820-25 on first 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
6.5 Approve a Clearwater Interlocal Agreement (ILA) with Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority
(PSTA) for Undergrounding of Duke Electric Utilities along Myrtle Avenue, Cleveland to
Court Streets, and authorize the appropriate officials to execute same.
In support of the City's new City Hall and MSB Renovation projects as well
PSTA's Multimodal Transit Center, the City wishes to partner with PSTA to
initiate removal of Duke's overhead power lines along the west side of Myrtle
Avenue from just north of Cleveland Street to just south of Court Street. 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 ILA allows PSTA to pay/reimburse the city for their portion of the Duke
undergrounding work. PSTA will be 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 the power lines. The proposed undergrounding covers approximately
four blocks for$671,431.56 based on Duke's binding project estimate dated
February 15, 2025. The City's portion owed to Duke is $503,573.56 or 75% of
the total for three blocks and PSTA's portion is $167,858.00 or 25% for one
block.
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The approval to use $1 million in CRA funds to cover the City's portion of
undergrounding cost, including joint users and restoration, as well as approval
of the Duke Underground Conversion Agreement, will be presented to the CRA
Trustees at the next CRA work session, March 31, 2025. The city and PSTA will
grant Duke 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.
STRATEGIC PRIORITY:
Investment in undergrounding of overhead power lines in the downtown core
supports all five of the strategic priorities below.
One individual suggested that Duke Energy provide some funds for this
project.
Councilmember Teixeira moved to approve a Clearwater Interlocal
Agreement (ILA) with Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) for
Undergrounding of Duke Electric Utilities along Myrtle Avenue,
Cleveland to Court Streets, and authorize the appropriate officials to
execute same. The motion was duly seconded and carried
unanimously.
6.6 Authorize an increase and extension on the purchase order to Gator Grading and Paving
LLC, of Palmetto, Florida, for the 2021 Roadway Resurfacing project on a unit price
basis in the not-to-exceed amount of$1,500,000.00 bringing the purchase order total to
$4,050,000.00 and extend by 153 Calendar days, through September 30, 2025, pursuant
to Bid (ITB) 19-0045-EN and authorize the appropriate officials to execute same.
The City of Clearwater's annual street resurfacing program is designed to
prevent the deterioration of the asphalt road surface, maintain the integrity of the
road substructure, and extend the useful lifespan of the roadways.
On December 3, 2020, City Council Approved the 2021 Roadway Resurfacing
contract pursuant to ITB 19-0045-EN for one year with an option for three
additional one-year renewal terms on a unit price basis.
On February 6, 2025, the City Manager approved an extension of 90 calendar
days to the purchase order through April 30, 2025, to continue with the 5-year
resurfacing plan and address damage caused by hurricanes Helene and Milton,
until a new Resurfacing contract is established.
This extension, as well as the extension previously approved by the City
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Manager, includes a price increase for the asphalt items. Asphalt line items
have increased yearly due to price fluctuations associated with the petroleum
industry and approved based on industry trends. The Transportation Division
was able to negotiate recent price increase with the contractor who agreed to
only increase the asphalt line items and keep pricing competitive with other local
active awarded contracts. The Gator Grading and Paving asphalt unit price is
lower (28% to 5%) than active annual resurfacing contracts with the Pinellas
County and St. Pete.
An additional 153 calendar day extension, through September 30, 2025, will
allow continuation of repair of damage caused by Hurricanes Helene and Milton
as well as complete work delayed due to hurricane activity. Public Works will
advertise a new resurfacing Invitation to Bid (ITB) this summer to be place by
the end of this fiscal year, by September 30, 2025.
The streets scheduled for resurfacing in this contract were selected from the
City's pavement management plan, citizens' requests, and staff observations.
Additionally, repairs of Clearwater Beach Parking Lots used as debris
management sites after Hurricane Helene and Milton (with the exception of Lot
36/Rockway) will be performed under this contract extension.
This is a unit price contract with a maximum increase of$1,500,000.00,
bringing the total to $4,050,000.00 for the term ending September 30, 2025.
APPROPRIATION CODE AND AMOUNT:
ENRD180004-CONS-CNSTRC $1,500,000
Funding is available in capital improvement project ENRD180004, Streets and
Sidewalks, to fund this contract. This project is funded annually with Road
Millage (Ad Valorem Taxes) and General Fund Revenues.
STRATEGIC PRIORITY:
1.2 Maintain public infrastructure, mobility systems, natural lands, environmental
resources, and historic features through systematic management efforts. 1.4
Foster safe and healthy communities in Clearwater through first-class public
safety and emergency response services.
Vice Mayor Allbritton moved to authorize an increase and extension
on the purchase order to Gator Grading and Paving LLC, of
Palmetto, Florida, for the 2021 Roadway Resurfacing project on a
unit price basis in the not-to-exceed amount of $1,500,000.00
bringing the purchase order total to $4,050,000.00 and extend by
153 Calendar days, through September 30, 2025, pursuant to Bid
(ITB) 19-0045-EN and authorize the appropriate officials to execute
same. The motion was duly seconded and carried unanimously.
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6.7 Approve a Contract for the Purchase of Real Property located on the Stevenson Creek
Shoreline, also known as Parcel Identification Number 10-29-15-00000-120-0100, by the
City of Clearwater from current owners, Kumar Kakarlapudi and Prerana Kamalakar
Vaidya at the purchase price of$35,000.00 plus anticipated closing costs of up to $3,500
for a total expenditure not to exceed $38,500.00, and authorize the appropriate officials
to execute same.
Said parcels as noted above are adjacent to Stevenson Creek consisting of
approximately 2.3 acres (100,188 square feet) with over 850 feet of
unobstructed waterfront.
This lot is vegetated wetland and provides a buffer between Stevenson Creek
and the adjacent residential properties to the north. The purchase of this
property will complement adjacent park parcels to the northwest. There are no
existing plans to develop the property as the main purpose for purchasing the
property is to set aside and preserve these wetlands from future development
and intrusion into the Stevenson Creek Watershed Basin. This property will
provide unobstructed access to the creek from adjacent park property to the
northwest.
An initial appraisal of the lot was completed on December 23, 2024, yielding a
market value of$18,300.00 dollars.
Mr. Robert J. Kasmer, the City of Clearwater Real Estate Service Coordinator
by virtue of his Florida Broker Licensure, performed a "Brokers Price Opinion"
on said parcel. His opinion is based upon the review of like kind property to
reconfirm its justifiable valuation. This value is not intended to replace an
Appraisal, but only to present a different perspective of market value. Mr.
Kasmer thoroughly evaluated similar parcels and offered an estimation of
current market price to be $35,700.00 dollars.
Funding for this purchase is coming from the Open Space/Recreation Facility
Special Development Fund. It's important to note that these funds may only be
used for park land purchases. The purchase of this property will allow the city
to utilize funds in a timely manner to purchase park property according to the
Open Space Recreation Facility Land Ordinance under which these funds were
collected and to which the use of such funds are still bound.
The purchase of this land is supported by numerous provisions of the City's
Comprehensive Plan found in the "Conservation & Coastal Management" and
"Parks and Public Places" elements as well as the Community Development
Code.
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City staff, including environmental staff, have reviewed and recommend
approval of this purchase.
APPROPRIATION CODE AND AMOUNT:
Funds are available in Special Development Fund for this purchase. A first
quarter budget amendment will transfer up to $38,500.00 of Open Space impact
fees from the Special Development Fund into project 315-93133 Park Land
Acquisition.
STRATEGIC PRIORITY:
Approval of this parkland purchase supports several Strategic Plan Objectives,
including:
1.2: Maintain public infrastructure, mobility systems, natural lands,
environmental resources, and historic features through systematic
management efforts.
1.3: Adopt responsive levels of service for public facilities and amenities,
and identify resources required to sustain that level of service.
1.5: Embrace a culture of innovation that drives continuous improvement
and successfully serves all our customers.
2.3: Promote Clearwater as a premier destination for entertainment,
cultural experiences, tourism, and national sporting events.
3.1: Support neighborhood identity through services and programs that
empower community pride and belonging.
4.1: Support proactive climate resiliency strategies based in science to
protect natural and built environments from impacts associated with sea
level rise.
4.3: Protect the conservation of urban forests and public green spaces
to promote biodiversity and reduce our carbon footprint.
Councilmember Mannino moved to approve a Contract for the
Purchase of Real Property located on the Stevenson Creek
Shoreline, also known as Parcel Identification Number
10-29-15-00000-120-0100, by the City of Clearwater from current
owners, Kumar Kakarlapudi and Prerana Kamalakar Vaidya at the
purchase price of$35,000.00 plus anticipated closing costs of up to
$3,500 for a total expenditure not to exceed $38,500.00, and
authorize the appropriate officials to execute same. The motion was
duly seconded and carried unanimously.
6.8 Approve Vehicle Use Agreement between the School Board of Pinellas County, Florida
and the City of Clearwater through August 8, 2025 for the City to utilize Pinellas County
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School buses at a cost of$1.60 per mile plus $44.00 per hour, for a total estimated cost
of$20,000 and authorize the appropriate officials to execute same. (consent)
The Parks and Recreation Department organizes various field trips for
participants, primarily summer camp youth, that require bus transportation.
During the summer of 2025, the department will organize approximately 50 field
trips that may utilize school bus transportation.
The Pinellas County School System allows municipalities to utilize their fleet of
buses and drivers for$1.60 per mile plus $44.00 per hour for driver with a
four-hour booking minimum.
Comparing a sampling cost of school buses for these trips against the use of
private bus lines indicates school buses are generally a less costly mode of
transportation.
Approval of this Agreement will allow staff the additional option to use Pinellas
County School System buses when determining the most cost-effective source
of transportation for participants.
This agreement is similar to previous agreements between the City and the
Pinellas County School System, and similar to agreements made with other
municipalities that utilize school bus transportation.
The contract terms include an indemnification provision against any claims that
are found to result from the sole negligence of the City, its governing body, or its
employees. 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.
APPROPRIATION CODE AND AMOUNT:
Funding will come from a variety of general fund cost centers, primarily
recreation programming (1813/1816/1834-5303) as well as the JWB grant code
(G2107-5303). The Recreation Programming Division's Operating Budget
contains sufficient funds to cover the costs associated with this Agreement.
STRATEGIC PRIORITY:
Approval of the purchase order supports several Strategic Plan Objectives,
including:
1.3: Adopt responsive levels of service for public facilities and amenities,
and identify resources required to sustain that level of service.
3.1: Support neighborhood identity through services and programs that
empower community pride and belonging.
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City Council Meeting Minutes March 17, 2025
Councilmember Cotton moved to approve Vehicle Use Agreement
between the School Board of Pinellas County, Florida and the City
of Clearwater through August 8, 2025 for the City to utilize Pinellas
County School buses at a cost of $1.60 per mile plus $44.00 per
hour, for a total estimated cost of$20,000 and authorize the
appropriate officials to execute same. The motion was duly
seconded and carried unanimously.
6.9 Approve a purchase order to Motorola Solutions, Inc., of Chicago, IL, for 12
CommandCentral AXS Dispatch Consoles and NICE Logging Interface with two-years of
associated warranty service for $1,303,879.00 pursuant to Clearwater Code of
Ordinances Section 2.563(1)(c) Piggyback or cooperative purchasing, Section 2.563(1)
(d) Noncompetitive (Impractical), and authorize the appropriate officials to execute same.
The City of Clearwater has operated an independent Land Mobile Radio (LMR)
system for several decades to use by the police department and other city
departments. At the direction of Council to find efficiencies to control costs,
staff is proposing migrating to the Pinellas County LMR. This will allow for
seamless radio communications between the police department and other law
enforcement agencies in Pinellas County, and the police department supports
the migration to the Pinellas County LMR. The Clearwater fire department
already currently operates on the Pinellas County LMR.
The Clearwater LMR is due for an upgrade, that occurs approximately every
10-years. In July 2024, the City received a proposal for the upgrade with a cost
of$957,000.00 for needed upgrades and $436,943.00 in optional upgrades.
Another related concern is the need to improve signal strength on Clearwater
Beach. In 2020, staff received a proposal to add an additional repeater on
Clearwater Beach for $917,802.00. Staff did not decide to proceed with this
proposal at that time. Additionally, the current (FY25) reoccurring annual
maintenance for the Clearwater LMR is $350,599.00, and subject to annual
escalation.
The purchase of 12 Motorola CommandCentral AXS Dispatch Consoled and
NICE Logging interface for$1,303,879.00 is necessary for the police
department communications center to migrate and operate on the Pinellas
County LMR. 2-years of service maintenance is included in this cost
($118,879.00 in year 2). The annual maintenance cost will be reoccurring
starting in year three and escalate annually. Migration to the Pinellas LMR will
reduce the need for future capital to fund the Clearwater LMR. This migration
also represents a reduction in maintenance costs of$231,720.00 a year.
Pinellas County is not requesting funding from the City of Clearwater to support
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City Council Meeting Minutes March 17, 2025
the Pinellas County LMR system at this time, other than we would have to pay
for individual access for non-public safety personnel.
Authorization to piggyback Sourcewell Contract 042021-MOT valid through June
23, 2025 with the option for one additional one-year period is requested. The
Essential Service Plan in the amount of$118,879.00 is considered impractical
to bid because using another provider to service this equipment could void the
warranty.
The current portable and mobile radios can be reprogrammed to operate on the
Pinellas LMR and are not required to be replaced until they reach end of life.
The cost to reprogram and set up current portable and mobile radios to
seamlessly work on the Pinellas LMR is $52,792.00 and would be complete by
Communications International (Ci) through our vendor service contract.
APPROPRIATION CODE AND AMOUNT:
A mid-year budget amendment will provide an allocation of$1,303,880 from
Garage Fund reserves to capital improvement project 315-C2508, Motorola
Conversion, to fund this purchase.
The Garage Fund is an internal service fund of the City which supports city-wide
fleet and radio system operations and maintenance.
USE OF RESERVE FUNDS:
Funding for this purchase will be provided by mid-year budget amendment
allocating Garage Fund reserves in the amount of$1,303,880 to capital
improvement project 315-C2508, Motorola Conversion. The remaining balance
of Garage Fund reserves after 25% working capital reserves is approximately
$3.9M or 21% of the current Garage Fund operating budget.
STRATEGIC PRIORITY:
Mission - Clearwater is committed to quality, sustainable, cost-effective
municipal services that foster and sustain a healthy residential and economic
environment.
1.2 Maintain public infrastructure through systematic management efforts.
1.4 Foster safe and healthy communities in Clearwater through first-class
public safety and emergency response services.
One individual spoke in opposition.
Councilmember Teixeira moved to approve a purchase order to
Motorola Solutions, Inc., of Chicago, IL, for 12 CommandCentral AXS
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City of Clearwater
City Council Meeting Minutes March 17, 2025
Dispatch Consoles and NICE Logging Interface with two-years of
associated warranty service for $1,303,879.00 pursuant to Clearwater
Code of Ordinances Section 2.563(1)(c) Piggyback or cooperative
purchasing, Section 2.563(1)(d) Noncompetitive (Impractical), and
authorize the appropriate officials to execute same. The motion was
duly seconded and carried unanimously.
6.10Approve a loan in the amount of$1,000,000.00 to SAH Indigo Holdings LP for the
acquisition of real property located at 801 Chestnut St. contingent upon the satisfactory
outcome of, as determined by the Economic Development and Housing Director, a
subsidy analysis, the receipt of a structural evaluation, approval of all funding sources,
and a tenant relocation plan; and authorize the appropriate officials to execute
documents required to effect closing of the loan.
Indigo Apartments is comprised of 208 units and was originally developed for
low-income senior housing. In 2015, the property was purchased and converted
to market rate, excluding 20 units that are legally restricted by HOME funding
that was previously provided to the property by the City of Clearwater.
Sunrise Affordable Housing Group, through their special purpose entity SAH
Indigo Holdings LP (Sunrise), is currently under contract to acquire Indigo
Apartments and is planning to convert it to legally restricted affordable housing
under a 50-year affordability commitment through the Low-Income Housing Tax
Credit (LI HTC) program, implementing income and rent restrictions on 100% of
units with thresholds set at 30%, 60%, and 80% of area median income. The
restrictions will result in significant rent reductions, resulting in an average +/-
51% discount when compared to today's market-rate rents. The property will be
placed in the Pinellas County Land Trust, which will provide a 99-year lease to
Sunrise, placing 208 housing under the county's land use restrictions.
To support the project, staff recommends approval of a deferred, 0% interest
40-year loan in the amount of$1,000,000.00, utilizing a combination of CDBG
and SHIP funding. The loan will support the acquisition of the property. The CRA
has agreed to provide a $2,000,000.00 loan to Sunrise to support the acquisition
of the property. The city funding will assist a total of 6 units which will be
restricted by a land use restriction agreement and monitored by City staff for the
duration of the LURA. The final approval of the loan will be contingent upon the
outcome of a subsidy analysis, the receipt of a structural evaluation of the
subject property that justifies the rehabilitation component of the project, the
approval of all funding sources, and a satisfactory tenant relocation plan as
determined by City.
APPROPRIATION CODE AND AMOUNT:
Funding is to be provided by State Housing Initiatives Partnership (SHIP)
Program, Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and CDBG Revolving
Loan Funds. No General Fund monies will be appropriated.
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City of Clearwater
City Council Meeting Minutes March 17, 2025
STRATEGIC PRIORITY:
Objective 2.4 - Supports equitable housing programs that promote household
stability and reduces the incidence of homelessness within Clearwater.
One individual spoke in opposition.
In response to a question, Economic Development and Housing Real
Estate Coordinator Dylan Mayeux said the $10 million from Pinellas
County is a blend from the Land Trust and Penny for Pinellas.
Vice Mayor Allbritton moved to approve a loan in the amount of
$1,000,000.00 to SAH Indigo Holdings LP for the acquisition of real
property located at 801 Chestnut St. contingent upon the
satisfactory outcome of, as determined by the Economic
Development and Housing Director, a subsidy analysis, the receipt
of a structural evaluation, approval of all funding sources, and a
tenant relocation plan; and authorize the appropriate officials to
execute documents required to effect closing of the loan. The
motion was duly seconded and carried unanimously.
7. Second Readings - Public Hearing
7.1 Adopt Ordinance 9813-25 on second reading , amending Clearwater Code of
Ordinances Sections 2.413 and 2.418 to change the disability process for members of
the pension plan.
Ordinance 9813-25 was presented and read by title only.
Councilmember Cotton moved to adopt Ordinance 9813-25 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
7.2 Adopt ordinance 9817-25 on second reading, amending Clearwater Code of Ordinances
Chapter 22, Article 11, Section 22.61, to add a new section addressing motorized
bicycles, hoverboards, unicycles, scooters and similar devices.
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City of Clearwater
City Council Meeting Minutes March 17, 2025
Ordinance 9817-25 was presented and read by title only.
Councilmember Mannino moved to adopt Ordinance 9817-25 on
second and final reading. The motion was duly seconded and upon
roll call, the motion carried with the following vote:
Ayes: 4 - Mayor Rector, Vice Mayor Allbritton, Councilmember Mannino and
Councilmember Teixeira
Nays: 1 - Councilmember Cotton
7.3 Continue to April 3, 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.
No action taken.
8. City Manager Reports — None.
9. City Attorney Reports — None.
10. Closing comments by Councilmembers (limited to 3 minutes)
Councilmember Cotton said it was great to see Spring Breaks are all
amped up and good to see many enjoying the area.
Councilmember Teixeira said she was looking forward to Neighborhoods
Day.
Councilmember Mannino said he was looking forward to visiting new areas
on Neighborhoods Day. He said he was proud of the team during Council's
recent visit to Tallahassee to meet with our legislative delegation.
Vice Mayor Allbritton said it was a good decision this year to meet with
our legislators separately from Amplify. He said it was a good trip and he
is looking forward to next year's trip.
11. Closing Comments by Mayor
The Mayor reviewed recent and upcoming events. He said the trip to
Tallahassee was great, it was an opportunity to thank our legislative
delegation for all they do for us and but also discuss legislation that could
negatively impact cities.
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City of Clearwater
City Council
12. Adjourn
Attest
Meeting Minutes March 17, 2025
The meeting adjourned at 8:49 p.m.
Mayor
City of Clearwater
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City of Clearwater