03/03/2025 Council Work Session Meeting Minutes March 3, 2025
City of Clearwater
Main Library- Council Chambers
100 N. Osceola Avenue
Clearwater, FL 33755
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Meeting Minutes
Monday, March 3, 2025
1 :30 PM
Main Library - Council Chambers
Council Work Session
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City of Clearwater
Council Work Session Meeting Minutes March 3, 2025
Rollcall
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 2:34 p.m.
2. Finance
2.1 Approve the purchase of excess Property insurance, including Bridges, Boiler and
Machinery, and Terrorism coverages, from April 1, 2025 through April 1, 2026, at the
level of insurance provided for in this agenda item in a not-to-exceed amount of
$5,275,000 and authorize the appropriate officials to execute same. (consent)
Risk Management requested Arthur J. Gallagher and Co. to obtain quotes for
the property insurance program expiring April 1, 2025. After a review of quotes
received, we request the renewal of our property coverage with a layer of
coverage limits provided by various carriers.
The current property coverage with Great American, Berkshire Hathaway, and
additional sub-carriers expires on April 1, 2025. This renewal will continue to
maintain our Named Windstorm coverage at $50 million, and flood insurance
at $50 million on an aggregate basis. The self-insured retention (SIR) will
remain at 5% for named storms and floods subject to $100,000 minimum per
occurrence, and no maximum deductible. The annual renewal will continue to
be subject to a loss ratio provision of 100% for Named Windstorm and 40% for
all other perils. The renewal premium for property is $4,900,000 reflecting a
9.27% premium decrease.
The renewal for Boiler and Machinery Coverage will remain at a $200 million
limit with a $25k deductible for a premium of$93,000 reflecting a 5.04%
premium decrease.
The City's bridge program is a stand-alone policy and includes Sand Key
Bridge, Mandalay Channel pedestrian bridge and the McMullen Booth
pedestrian overpass. This renewal is a 50/50 shared capacity between Zurich
and Chubb to maintain the $50 million Named Windstorm and Flood policy
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limits. The renewal bridge policy has a deductible of$100,000 per occurrence
for all other perils and earthquakes for the Mandalay Channel and McMullen
Booth bridges, and $1 million for the Sand Key bridge. The Self-Insured
Retention (SIR) for Flood and Named Windstorm is 5% of the total covered
value of a loss, subject to a $500,000 minimum deductible. The annual
aggregate limit for the perils of Earthquake/Flood/Named Storm is $50 million
each and for All Other Perils is $82,938,010. The Bridge program renewal
premium is $230,000 reflecting a 20.39% premium increase.
The renewal for Terrorism - Property & Liability coverage will continue at limits
of$25 million for property damage and $10 million for liability for a premium of
$26,500 reflecting a 19.38% premium decrease.
The City also purchases a separate policy which provides Nuclear, Biological,
Chemical & Radioactive Terrorism coverage with limits of$3 million, for a
premium of$25,500 reflecting a 20.93% premium decrease.
Total premiums for these renewals are estimated to be $5,275,000. This
represents a 12.38% decrease from last year's approved not-to-exceed total of
$6,020,000; and an 8.34% decrease of premiums from last year's actual
renewals.
Risk Management agrees that these recommended coverages will continue to
cover the City's property risks at levels and rates which represent a reasonable
insurance program for the City.
APPROPRIATION CODE AND AMOUNT:
5907590-545100 $5,275,000
Funds for this these purchases are available in Central Insurance cost code
5907590-545100 (Property & Liability Insurance). The Central Insurance Fund
is an Internal Service Fund of the City established to account for all insurance
related expenditures.
STRATEGIC PRIORITY:
1.2 Maintain public infrastructure, mobility systems, natural lands,
environmental resources, and historic features through systematic
management efforts.
In response to a question, Risk Manager Todd Marrone said the bridge
policy is property that is broken out as a separate property type and not
included in the main property schedule. If it were to renew within the total
property schedule, the rate would be double. He said the increased premium
rate is a rate adjustment by the industry due to storm activity and bridge
losses throughout the state.
3. Gas System
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3.1 Declare as surplus one City of Clearwater Gas System fee-simple owned real property
7240 US Hwy 19 N Pasco County, FL, as further defined by Parcel
32-25-16-0040-O0000-0040 within Section 32, Township 25 South, Range 16 East;
now deemed a justifiable growth surplus necessity with said Property being publicly
posted for sale to the highest qualified Bidder.
In July 1994, the City Council approved Resolution 94-54, authorizing
Clearwater Gas System (CGS) to expand its distribution utility into Pasco
County. Following this approval, CGS identified and purchased a one-acre
parcel on September 22, 1995, for $275,000 to support the expansion.
This property, now vacant, previously housed a remote operations building with
a warehouse facility dedicated to Pasco expansion field operations. However,
during the 2008 recession, the Pasco office was closed, and all Pasco-based
employees were relocated to CGS's main facility in Clearwater, as economic
conditions did not support further gas expansion at that time.
Since 2008, CGS has operated solely out of the main administration/operations
facility in Clearwater. However, to meet the growing energy demands of the
Pasco market, including the rapidly developing residential and commercial
areas along the Suncoast Parkway, State Road 52 and 54, CGS would like to
sell off this property and eventually purchase another remote facility that is
located closer to where CGS is growing its customer base.
To support this effort, CGS established a Capital Improvement Project, which
may be utilized to fund a new remote facility. The current appraised value of
the surplus land is $650,000. Given its increased value and distance to where
CGS is experiencing growth, repurposing this parcel is no longer a viable
option.
City staff have reviewed and support the designation of this property as
surplus.
STRATEGIC PRIORITY:
High Performing Government: 1.3, 1.5
4. Parks and Recreation
4.1 Accept the Highway Landscape Reimbursement Memorandum of Agreement
(HLRMOA) Fiscal Year 2025 Program funds for the renovations and improvements to
landscaping within the Missouri Avenue right-of-way (ROW) between Bayview Drive
and Court Street, in the amount of$435,772.00 between the Florida Department of
Transportation District Seven and the City of Clearwater and authorize the appropriate
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officials to execute same. (consent)
On August 14, 2024, the City's Parks & Recreation Department submitted a
Beautification Grant Application Package to the Florida Department of
Transportation (FDOT) District Seven for the purposes of securing funding for
the renovations and improvements to landscaping within the Missouri Avenue
right-of-way (ROW) between Bayview Drive and Court Street.
On January 24, 2025, the City received formal approval notice the FDOT
District Seven granting an HLRMOA FY2025 Program Grant of$435,772.00.
Missouri Avenue is a state-owned ROW and is one of the primary entryways
into the city and a significant north-south corridor leading to and through the
city. The City currently maintains landscaping within the medians of the ROW
according to an approved Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) from FDOT.
The grant funding of$435,772.00 will cover costs associated with, plants, soils,
installation, labor, soil amendments, staking, and maintenance of traffic (MOT).
City funding of$114,228.00 will cover the cost for plan design, irrigation
system repairs, and establishment of the plants. Total cost for the project will
be $550,000.00. Parks employs contractors for maintenance of these
medians, there is no change to future operating costs resulting from this
beautification project.
The Parks & Recreation Department is recommending acceptance of these
funds pending the final MOA from FDOT which will come back to the Council
for final approval at a later date.
APPROPRIATION CODE AND AMOUNT:
A first quarter budget amendment will establish capital improvement project
G2507, Missouri Ave Medians, and record a budget increase of$435,772 in
grant revenue and a transfer of$114,228 of General Fund revenues from
Parks and Recreation in salary savings recognized in the current fiscal year
(FY25).
STRATEGIC PRIORITY:
Approval of the purchase order 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.
• 2.3: Promote Clearwater as a premier destination for entertainment,
cultural experiences, tourism, and national sporting events.
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• 3.1: Support neighborhood identity through services and programs that
empower community pride and belonging.
• 3.2: Preserve community livability through responsible development
standards, proactive code compliance, and targeted revitalization.
• 4.3: Protect the conservation of urban forests and public green spaces
to promote biodiversity and reduce our carbon footprint.
In response to questions, Parks and Recreation Assistant Director Matt
Anderson said the agreement will not change the maintenance cost because
the City currently has the same fixed maintenance cost with water. He said
the watering cost may decrease because the landscape design will
include crepe myrtles, which are drought tolerant, instead of palm trees.
4.2 Approve amendments to the Clearwater Code of Ordinances Chapter 22, Article II,
Section 22.61, to add a new section addressing e-bicycles, motorized bicycles,
hoverboards, unicycles, scooters and similar devices and pass Ordinance 9817-25 on
first reading.
Proposed Ordinance No. 9817-25 will add a new section to the Code of
Ordinances which will preclude the use of any e-bicycles, motorized bicycle,
hoverboard, unicycle and scooter or similar device, excluding any medically
necessary conveyances in, on or through the entirety of Beach Walk, Crest
Lake Park and Coachman Park excluding those areas specifically designated
for vehicular traffic such as parking lots, street rights-of-way, driveways and/or
drive aisles. This amendment is the result of public input noting that motorized
vehicles have been creating an unsafe environment in our parks and beaches
due to the relatively high rate of speed easily achieved by these devices. The
prohibition of these devices will enhance the feeling of patron safety.
The Department has determined that the proposed prohibition of e-bicycles,
motorized bicycles, hoverboards, unicycles, scooters and similar devices in
certain areas are consistent with Goal PPP 1 of the Parks & Public Places
Element of the City's Comprehensive Plan as well as the intent and purpose of
the Open Space/Recreation zoning district of the City's Community
Development Section 2-1401 which provides that is to establish areas where
public and private organizations can establish and operate passive and active
open space and recreation facilities which are important to the quality of life
and economic vitality of the City of Clearwater without adversely impacting the
integrity of adjacent residential neighborhoods, diminishing the scenic quality of
the City of Clearwater or negatively impacting the safe and efficient movement
of people and things within the City of Clearwater.
STRATEGIC PRIORITY:
Approval of the name and operating hours modifications support several
Strategic Plan Objectives, including:
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• 1.2: Maintain public infrastructure, mobility systems, natural lands,
environmental resources, and historic features through systematic
management efforts.
• 2.3: Promote Clearwater as a premier destination for entertainment,
cultural experiences, tourism, and national sporting events.
• 3.2: Preserve community livability through responsible development
standards, proactive code compliance, and targeted revitalization.
In response to questions, Parks and Recreation Director Art Kader said the
trail that connects to the Memorial Causeway helix does not take individuals
through Coachman Park. If approved, e-bikes will not be allowed in
Coachman Park and the city will incorporate signage to educate visitors.
The proposed changes will impact three areas: 1) Beachwalk, 2) Crest Lake
Park, and 3) Coachman Park. He said Beachwalk is a heavily crowded
area, which makes it unenforceable. Police Chief Gandy said enforcement
is always a challenge and statutes were changed to provide e-bikes all the
rights and privileges of bicycles, unless Council enacts an ordinance
restricting their operation. From an enforcement perspective, the last thing
the Department wants is to assign officers to the park and enforce the
speed limit. He said Beachwalk makes sense.
Discussion ensued with consensus to amend the ordinance to restrict e-
bikes on Beachwalk only.
5. General Services
5.1 Authorize purchase orders to multiple vendors as listed, for various plumbing supplies
in the cumulative annual not-to-exceed amount of$450,000.00 for period March 1,
2025 through January 28, 2026, with two, one-year renewal options pursuant to
Clearwater Code of Ordinances Section 2.563(1)(b), Micro purchases, and Section
2.563(1)(c), Piggyback purchasing, and authorize the appropriate officials to execute
same. (consent)
The Building and Maintenance Division (B&M) is responsible for repairs of
plumbing issues citywide. B&M staff is requesting the ability to piggyback
existing contracts for various plumbing supplies needed for projects throughout
the city for the duration of their respective contract. This will allow B&M to
benefit from previously negotiated prices for the various items required.
Piggyback Contract:
Pinellas County Schools (PCS) ITB 24-AM-009, Plumbing Supplies valid
through 01/28/2026 with two, one-year renewal options.
• Tampa Winsupply of Tampa, FL
• Ferguson Enterprises, Inc of Atlanta, GA
Micro Purchases:
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• Hughes Supply, Clearwater FL
• Hydrologic Distribution Company
Additionally, B&M requests the flexibility to add vendors as needed, following
the appropriate procurement procedures and with the oversight from
Purchasing.
APPROPRIATION CODE AND AMOUNT:
Funding for the current year is available in the operating expense of Building &
Maintenance (5656531-550800, construction materials); in capital project
GSBM180008, Building Systems; and in various departments capital
improvement projects based upon location. Future year funding will be
requested as part of the annual budget process.
The General Services Fund is an internal service fund of the City which
supports city-wide building maintenance. Capital project GSBM180008 is
funded by General Fund revenues and other capital projects to be used are
funded with their respective Utility and Enterprise Fund revenues based on
facility ownership.
STRATEGIC PRIORITY:
These services help accomplish Strategic Plan Objectives 1.1, maintaining
municipal performance, and promoting accountable governance; 1.2,
maintaining public infrastructure; 1.3, identify resources required to sustain
level of service 3.2, proactive code compliance, and targeted revitalization.
6. Fire Department
6.1 Authorize a purchase order to Inventech Marine Solutions LLC dba Life Proof Boats
(Inventech) of Bremerton, WA, for the purchase of a 29-foot Fireboat vessel, engines,
and trailer in the amount of$480,969.41, pursuant to Clearwater Code of Ordinances
Sections 2.563(1)(c), piggyback, and 2.563(1)(d), non-competitive purchase
(impractical); declare fireboat G4670 surplus and authorize for disposal pursuant to
Section 2.623 (6) and (8) and authorize the appropriate officials to execute same.
(consent)
On October 20, 2016, City Council authorized the purchase of a 32-foot
Metalcraft Firestorm, equipped with twin Jet drives. The Fireboat was intended
to enhance marine response capabilities, providing fire protection, water
rescue, and medical care within Clearwater's waterways.
The current vessel, G4670, has been in service since 2018. Over time, it has
encountered various mechanical issues due to environmental conditions
affecting the reliability of its engines, components, and exterior. The vessel
has proven to be difficult and costly repair in a timely manner, resulting in long
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protracted periods of the vessel being unavailable for its public safety mission.
Therefore, the department is seeking to replace G4670 with a new fire
suppression boat earlier than anticipated to ensure the department has a
reliable fire suppression boat to meet is public safety obligation to the
community.
Clearwater Fire & Rescue (CFR) conducted research into various vessel
manufactures. Aluminum hulled vessels, known for their durability and
reliability, have become the industry standard for public safety agencies.
Based upon this evaluation, staff recommends purchasing a Life Proof 29'HT
vessel (featuring an open cockpit and center consol) powered by dual Mercury
300 outboard engines. This vessel includes an aluminum triple-axel trailer as
part of a package offered through Inventech. This vessel is the same
manufacture and similar design as the vessel currently in service with the
police department, and has proven to be reliable.
The total cost of the vessel and trailer amounts to $480,969.41 with
$438,755.41 procured through a competitive solicitation process under U.S.
Federal General Services Administration (GAS) contract#47QSWA18D0015,
valid through January 7, 2029. The Multiple Award Schedule (MAS) replaced
Schedule 84, serving as a national resource for local governments to acquire
public safety and marine crafts through the Cooperative Purchasing Program.
The added open market items, to include items that were removed, totaling
$27,334.00 and shipping totaling at $14,880.00 are considered impractical to
bid due to delay in receipt of vessel, possible void of warranty for after-market
equipment, manufacturer delay in receiving parts, etc. Progress payments
incentive allows for an additional 1% discount of$4,809.70 bringing the total
amount of the vessel with trailer to $476,159.71.
To upfit the boat for service, a new APX 6500/Enh series radio will be procured
through Motorola Solutions totaling $6,889.71, piggybacking off the State of
Florida NASPO Contract 4319000-22-NASPO-ACS, Public Safety
Communications, valid through December 31. 2026. The total project budget
will be established to fund the purchase of the boat as well as additional upfit
costs.
Authorization is requested to declare G4670, a 2018 Metalcraft Firestorm
32-foot boat (Serial# QME00708G717), as surplus and authorize disposal via
auction through either Tampa Machinery Auction of Tampa, FL or Royal
Auction Group of Zephyrhills, FL, pursuant to Sections 2.623(6) and (8).
Tampa Machinery Auction was competitively solicited by Pinellas County under
Contract NO. 190-0534-R(JJ) valid through November 17, 2027. Royal
Auction Group was competitively solicited by Pinellas County under Contract
NO. 190-537-R valid through November 16, 2027.
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APPROPRIATION CODE AND AMOUNT:
A first quarter budget amendment will establish capital project C2507, Fire
Boat Replacement, and allocate General Fund Reserves in the amount of
$490,000.00 to fund the boat purchase. This use of reserves is an advance of
next year planned funding for the Fire Command Bus which will not be
replaced resulting in a budget savings of over$710,000 in future capital
expenditures.
USE OF RESERVE FUNDS:
Funding for this purchase will be provided by a first quarter budget amendment
allocating General Fund reserves in the amount of$490,000.00 to capital
improvement project C2507, Fire Boat Replacement. Inclusive of this item if
approved, a net total of$14,531,000 of General Fund reserves has been used
to date to fund expenditures in the 2024/25 operating budget. The remaining
balance in General Fund reserves after the 8.5% reserve is approximately
$41.4 million, or 18.3% of the current General Fund operating budget.
STRATEGIC PRIORITY:
Foster safe and healthy communities through first-class public safety and
emergency response services.
In response to question, Interim Fire Chief Pettingill said the current fire boat
does not have a trailer. He said the City will have the same maintenance
company the PD boat has. Due to the cost, the boat will not have an
enclosed cab but a large canopy.
7. Planning
7.1 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
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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.
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.
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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.
Interim Planning and Development Director Lauren Matzke provided a
PowerPoint presentation. She said the item before Council will need to be
continued to the second meeting in March because staff did not post the now
required Business Impact Statement online.
In response to questions, Ms. Matzke said if the changes being proposed for
permitting increases the valuation of 25% or more, based on the value of the
principal structure on the site, the applicant will be required to submit
landscaping and parking requirements. She said the 25% valuation does not
apply to single-family property owner. Staff assumes the artificial tun`is
permeable when it is properly installed by a professional installer or
contractor. She said the proposed ordinance does not mandate the tun`be
recycled as staff could not appropriately regulate. Development Services
Division Manager Scott Kurleman said the certified arborist bases the tree
preservation plan on the species, where it is located on the property, and
health, which determines what kind of impact the tree can sustain. He said if
you think of the root system as a pie, the more pieces of the pie taken out,
depending on the tree species, the greater stress for the tree.
8. Information Technology
8.1 Authorize an agreement with Cayenta, a division of N. Harris Computer Corporation of
Canada for professional services and licensing related to the Utility Management
System (UMS) software from Oracle to SQL server and the related reporting service
from Actuate to Cognos in the not to exceed amount of$460,478.00 pursuant to
Clearwater Code of Ordinances Section 2.563 (1)(d), Non-competitive purchases
(Impractical), and authorize the appropriate officials to execute same. (consent)
Cayenta is the City's utility management solution, overseeing utility customer
service management and utility billing for water, sewer, solid waste and gas
services. This agreement is for the migration of the utility management
software (UMS) server from Oracle to SQL and transitions the reporting
system from Actuate to Cognos. These upgrades are essential prerequisites
for future software enhancement and migration to a cloud-based platform.
This agreement covers comprehensive project management and
implementation services, assistance during the go-live and transition to
Cayenta support, as well as the necessary technical services and licensing.
This project is estimated to take approximately 28 weeks.
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Cayenta has been the City's utility management solution for more than 24
years, with configurations tailored to meet specific customer and billing
requirements. Transitioning to an alternative system would require a
substantial financial investment, a multi-year implementation effort, retraining
of staff, and a disruption in operations. Continuing with Cayenta ensures cost
savings, operational efficiency, and continuity of service.
Payments will be made according to the milestones outlined in the statement of
work.
APPROPRIATION CODE AND AMOUNT:
Funds are available in the capital project 94829, CIS Upgrade/Replacement, to
fund this purchase order. This project is funded by Administrative Service
Fund revenues, an internal service fund of the City.
STRATEGIC PRIORITY:
This purchase will support all the objectives of a High-Performance
Government, as well as Superior Public Service.
9. Solid Waste
9.1 Ratify and confirm a purchase order to Tetra Tech, Inc. of Maitland, FL for disaster
debris monitoring as a result of Hurricane Helene (Task Order 1) and Hurricane Milton
(Task Order 2) in a cumulative amount of$1,751,140.00 pursuant to Clearwater Code
of Ordinances Section 2.563(1)(c), Piggyback or Cooperative purchasing, and
authorize the appropriate officials to execute same. (consent)
The City entered into an Interlocal Agreement with Pinellas County for Disaster
Debris Monitoring and Management Services. Pinellas County issued
solicitation 22-0601-P for these services, selecting Tetra Tech as an awarded
vendor.
Solid Waste requests Council's authorization to approve the task orders by
Tetra Tech for Disaster Debris Monitoring Services related to both Hurricane
Helene and Hurricane Milton totaling $1,751,140.00
• Task Order 1 - Hurricane Helene (Debris Monitoring): This task
order, valued at $77,520.00, covers hiring, scheduling, training, and
managing field staff; certifying contractor vehicles for debris removal;
monitoring and documenting contractor operations; and developing
operational reports. The focus will be on reviewing and reconciling
contractor invoices before submission to the City for processing. The
estimated project term is from September 27, 2024, to October 7, 2024,
unless extended by written agreement.
• Task Order 2 - Hurricane Milton (Debris Monitoring): This task
order, with a not-to-exceed amount of$1,673,620.00, includes similar
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responsibilities-hiring, scheduling, training, and managing field staff;
certifying contractor vehicles; monitoring and documenting contractor
operations; and preparing operational reports, with a focus on invoice
reconciliation. The estimated project terms runs from October 8, 2024
through April 30, 2025 unless extended by written agreement.
Authorization is requested to utilize this ILA with Pinellas County for these
services which is valid through December 31, 2027.
APPROPRIATION CODE AND AMOUNT:
These work orders will be coded to Solid Waste cost codes
4242088-546300-D2402, Disaster Response (Hurricane Helene), and
4242088-546300-D2501, Disaster Response (Hurricane Milton), based on the
cost estimated per storm. Current funding will come from Solid Waste reserve
funds, reimbursement from FEMA will be pursued.
To date, $6,196,157.50 in FEMA reimbursement has been received by Solid
Waste for Category A (storm debris).
STRATEGIC PRIORITY:
Within High Performing Government, this item falls under Item 1.4: Foster
safe and healthy communities in Clearwater through first-class public safety
and emergency response services.
10. Public Utilities
10.1Authorize purchase orders to Univar Solutions USA LLC of Downers Grove, IL for the
supply of Sodium Hydroxide and Brenntag Mid-South of Henderson, KY for the supply
of Sodium Bisulfite Aqueous Solution, in a cumulative annual not-to-exceed amount of
$500,000.00 for the term March 6, 2025 through March 5, 2026, with the option of
two, one-year renewals pursuant to Invitation to Bid (ITB) 09-25 and authorize the
appropriate officials to execute the same. (consent)
Sodium Hydroxide (Caustic Soda) is utilized at both of the City's Reverse
Osmosis (RO) Water Treatment Plants for final pH adjustment and corrosion
control, ensuring compliance with the Florida Department of Environmental
Protection (FDEP) and Safe Drinking Water Act.
Sodium Bisulfite Aqueous Solution is used at the City's three Wastewater
Reclamation Facilities to dechlorinate treated effluent prior to discharge into
surface waters. Additionally, it is applied at the City's RO1 Water Treatment
Plant for drinking water to meet FDEP regulations.
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Council Work Session Meeting Minutes March 3, 2025
On December 13, 2024, Procurement released ITB #09-25 and received five
submissions by January 16, 2025. Univar Solutions USA LLC was determined
to be the lowest, most responsive bidder for Sodium Hydroxide at a rate of
$1.9574 per gallon, while Brenntag Mid-South submitted the lowest, most
responsive bid for Sodium Bisulfite at $1.67 per gallon. Approval is requested
to authorize purchase orders to these vendors in the cumulative annual
not-to-exceed amount of$500,000.00 with the option for two, one-year
renewals.
APPROPRIATION CODE AND AMOUNT:
Funds for FY25 are available in Public Utilities' cost centers, cost code 551700
Bulk Chemicals. Funding for future fiscal years (FY26 through FY28) will be
requested in the annual budget process within contract calendar and spending
limits.
The Public Utilities department is funded by Water and Sewer Utility Enterprise
Fund Revenues.
STRATEGIC PRIORITY:
Disinfection falls under objectives: 1.3 (Adopt responsive levels of service for
public facilities and amenities and identify resources) and 4.2 (Adopt renewable
resource usage and waste reduction practices to ensure a vibrant City for
current and future generations).
10.2Authorize a purchase order to AECOM Technical Services, Inc (AECOM) of Tampa,
FL for design, bidding, and construction services for the installation of density current
baffles on all four secondary clarifiers at the Marshall Street Water Reclamation
Facility (MS WRF), project 24-0066-UT, in the amount of$118,892.00 pursuant to
RFQ 34-23, Engineer of Record (EOR) Consulting Services and authorize the
appropriation officials to execute same. (consent)
Clarifiers play a crucial role in wastewater treatment by separating sludge from
water to produce a higher-quality effluent. MS WRF is equipped with four
secondary clarifiers, each measuring 100 feet in diameter. During periods of
high flow, the sludge blanket in the clarifiers rises, causing solids to wash over
the effluent weirs and clog downstream filters.
To mitigate this issue and enhance clarifier efficiency, the City plans to install
density current baffles (Stamford Baffles) on all four secondary clarifiers.
These baffles will improve flow distribution, reduce weir overflows, and ensure
the smooth operation of the clarifier arms.
AECOM was selected for this project based on the expertise of its professional
team and its proven track record on similar projects. AECOM is recognized for
consistently delivering high-quality results on time and with professionalism,
reinforcing its selection for this initiative.
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Council Work Session Meeting Minutes March 3, 2025
The design phase is anticipated to be completed within approximately 150
days following Council's approval, not including construction time.
The construction costs are estimated to be under$4 million.
MS WRF is owned, operated and maintained by the City of Clearwater Public
Utilities Department.
APPROPRIATION CODE AND AMOUNT:
3277327-530100-M 1905
Funding is available in capital improvement project M1905, Mashall Street
Plant R&R to fund this work order. This project is funded with revenues from
the Water and Sewer Utility Enterprise Fund.
STRATEGIC PRIORITY:
In furtherance of the Council's Strategic Plan to achieve High Performing
Government by maintaining public infrastructure through systematic
management efforts, approval of a Work Order to AECOM is requested.
In response to questions, Public Utilities Director Rich Gardner said the cost
is expected to be less than $4 million. The City will keep the clarifiers going
until the plants are consolidated. The consolidation will be completed within
six to ten years. Since the new baffle is made out of fiberglass and
underwater, it should last approximately ten to 20 years.
11. Human Resources
11.1Approve an increase for the collective bargaining agreement between the City of
Clearwater and International Association of Fire Fighters Bargaining Unit in the
amount of$312,677 for fiscal year 2024/2025, delegate the authority to the City
Manager to enter into a MOU with IAFF, and authorize the appropriate officials to
execute same. (consent)
On January 16, 2025, City Council approved the collective bargaining
agreement between the City of Clearwater and International Association of
Firefighters Bargaining Unit for fiscal years 2024/2025, 2025/2026, and
2026/2027.
While implementing the City's new agreement with the fire union, staff
discovered a contractual ambiguity as to whether the new step plan will also
trigger re-slotting. The approved agreement is silent as to re-slotting, but
re-slotting was requested by IAFF at the bargaining table. Re-slotting aligns
with the intent and understanding discussed at the table. As a result, City staff
and IAFF mutually support the creation of a Memorandum of Understanding
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Council Work Session Meeting Minutes March 3, 2025
(MOU) to clarify the intent and include re-slotting. Similar to the main
agreement, the MOU will be deemed effective October 1, 2024.
Below is a table representing the estimates that were used to calculate the
step plan as articulated in the agreement and presented to Council on January
16th, with a side-by-side comparison of the adjusted costs based on the intent
of step placement. The recalculations based on the clarified intent for wages
for Year 1 (FY2024/25) of the agreement needs to be increased by $312,677.
However, Years 2 (FY2025/26) and 3 (FY2026/27) are anticipated to have
reduced costs of-$211,436; therefore, the overall total cost increase over all
three years of the agreement will be $101,241.
Contract Total Wages Only Wages for
Re-slotting
FY 2024/25 $2,528,978 FY 2024/25$2,358,936 FY 2024/25 $2,671,613
FY 2025/26 $1,299,885 FY 2025/26$928,516 FY 2025/26 $813,762
FY 2026/27 $1,483,548 FY 2026/27$784,422 FY 2026/27 $687,740
$5,312,411 $4,071,873 $4,173,115
APPROPRIATION CODE AND AMOUNT:
A first quarter budget amendment will include an increase of$312,677 to Fire
Department salaries recognizing an allocation of General Fund Reserves.
USE OF RESERVE FUNDS:
This increase in contract funding will be provided by a first quarter budget
amendment allocating General Fund reserves in the amount of$312,678 to
fund increases in the Fire Department. Inclusive of this item if approved, a net
total of$14,843,677 of General Fund reserves has been used to date to fund
expenditures in the 2024/25 operating budget. The remaining balance in
General Fund reserves after the 8.5% reserve is approximately $41.1 million,
or 18.1% of the current General Fund operating budget.
STRATEGIC PRIORITY:
Superior Public Service 5.1 Attract and retain top-quality personnel through the
maintenance of competitive compensation program.
12. City Clerk
12.1Appoint Frank Cornier to the Neighborhood and Affordable Housing Advisory Board,
as the member actively engaged in the residential home building industry in
connection with affordable housing category, to fill an unexpired term through
September 30, 2025. (consent)
APPOINTMENT WORKSHEET
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Council Work Session Meeting Minutes March 3, 2025
BOARD: Neighborhood and Affordable Housing Advisory Board (NAHAB)
TERM: 4 years
APPOINTED BY: City Council
FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE: Not Required
RESIDENCY REQUIREMENT: N/A (See Special Qualifications)
MEMBERS: 7
CHAIRPERSON: Robyn Fiel
MEETING DATE: 2nd Tues. most months
PLACE: Main Library/Council Chambers
STAFF LIAISON: Chuck Lane
APPTS. NEEDED: 1
SPECIAL QUALIFICATIONS: Board to have 1 member in each: Real Estate
Professional in Connection with Affordable Housing*; Clearwater Resident;
Residential Home Building Industry*; Advocate for Low Income Housing*;
Not-For-Profit Provider of Affordable Housing*; Banking/Mortgage Industry*;
Employer's Representative*.
*Resident of Clearwater or who conducts work in Clearwater
THE FOLLOWING ADVISORY BOARD MEMBERS HAS RESIGNED AND
NOW REQUIRES REPLACEMENT BY A NEW APPOINTEE:
1. David Harder - 803 Harbor Circle, Palm Harbor, FL 34683 - Real Estate
Development Manager
Original Appointment: 9/7/23
(was serving 1 st term set to expire 9/30/25)
Resignation Date: 2/12/25
Category: Citizen who is actively engaged in the residential home
building industry in connection with affordable housing
THE NAME BELOW IS BEING SUBMITTED FOR CONSIDERATION TO FILL
THE ABOVE VACANCY:
1. Frank Cornier - 18209 Holland House Loop, Land O Lakes, FL 34638 -
Tampa Bay Neighborhood Housing Services President/CEO
Category: Citizen who is actively engaged in the residential home
building industry in connection with affordable housing
12.2Appoint an individual to the Community Development Board with a term expiring
March 6, 2029.
BOARD: Community Development Board
TERM: 4 years
APPOINTED BY: City Council
FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE: Yes
RESIDENCY REQUIREMENT: City of Clearwater
MEMBERS: 7 & 1 alternate
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Council Work Session Meeting Minutes March 3, 2025
CHAIRPERSON: TBD
MEETING DATES: 3rd Tues., 1:00 p.m.
PLACE: Main Library
APPTS. NEEDED: 1
SPECIAL QUALIFICATIONS: Per the Clearwater Community Development
Code, Section 5-202, the City Council shall "shall seek a membership with
diverse economic, social and professional representation and shall include
members qualified and experienced in the fields of architecture, planning,
landscape architecture, engineering, construction, planning and land use law
and real estate."
THE FOLLOWING ADVISORY BOARD MEMBER COMPLETED TWO FULL
TERMS AND NOT ELIGIBLE FOR REAPPOINTMENT:
1. John Quattrocki - 1353 Stewart Blvd., 33764, Real Estate
Developer/Broker
Completed second full term on 2/28/25
THE FOLLOWING INDIVIDUALS SUBMITTED APPLICATIONS:
1. Michelle Chenault - 31 Island Way, #803, 33767, Real Estate
Broker/Developer
2. Chelsea Gird - 407 Pennsylvania Ave, 33755, Sales/Propety
Management
Completed partial term on Nuisance Abatement Board - 1/18/24
through 6/29/24
3. Kurt Hinrichs - 3151 Oyster Bayou Way, 33759 - Civil Engineer
Currently serving as the Alternate Member on CDB
Appointed 9/21/23; Absences: 2/20/24
4. William Jonson -2694 Redford Ct W, 33761, Retired Honeywell Project
Manager
5. Luis Serna -2819 Anderson Drive S, 33761, Planning Director
Note - If Mr. Hinrichs is appointed as a regular member, an appointment will be
needed for the Alternate Member seat for an unexpired term through April 30,
2026.
Zip Codes of current members:
3 at 33759
1 at 33761
1 at 33756
2 at 33767
Current categories:
Real Estate Developer
Sr. Project Administrator
Engineer
Construction/Real Estate
Real Estate Law
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Council Work Session Meeting Minutes March 3, 2025
Civil Engineer
There was council consensus to appoint Michelle Chenault. Staff was
directed to place the item on the Consent Agenda.
12.3Appoint an individual to the Environmental Advisory Board with a term expiring
October 31, 2028.
APPOINTMENT WORKSHEET
BOARD: Environmental Advisory Board
TERM: 4 years
APPOINTED BY: City Council
FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE: Not Required
RESIDENCY REQUIREMENT: City of Clearwater
SPECIAL QUALIFICATIONS: None
MEMBERS: 5
CHAIRPERSON: Jared Leone
MEETING DATES: Quarterly Meetings - 3rd Wed., 4 pm (Jan., April, July,
Oct.)
STAFF LIAISON: Cassie Cordova - Sustainability
PLACE: Main Library/Council Chambers
APPTS. NEEDED: 1
THE FOLLOWING ADVISORY BOARD MEMBER HAS COMPLETED A
TERM AND WISHES TO BE REAPPOINTED:
1. Glenna Wentworth - 2227 Harn Blvd., 33764 - Retired Mental Health
Counselor
Original Appointment: 12/2/20; Completed first term
No absences to report
THE FOLLOWIONG INDIVIDUALS HAVE SUBMITTED APPLICATIONS:
1. Madison Czerepak -25350 US Hwy 19 N, 33763 - Restaurant Manager
2. Erina Ford -2932 Eagle Estates Circle N, 33761 - Finance
3. Sonja Jokela - 1406 Hamlet Ave., Apt 5, 33756 - Lease Analyst
4. Patricia Kirby - 1111 Spencer Ave., 33756 - Vision Coach
Zip codes of current members:
2 at 33755
1 at 33756
1 at 33759
1 at 33764
There was council consensus to reappoint Glenna Wentworth. Staff was
directed to place the item on the Consent Agenda.
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Council Work Session Meeting Minutes March 3, 2025
12.4Appoint an individual to the Municipal Code Enforcement Board to fill an unexpired
term through January 12, 2026.
APPOINTMENT WORKSHEET
Board: Municipal Code Enforcement Board
Term: 3 years
Financial DISCLOSURE: Required
RESIDENCY REQUIREMENT: City of Clearwater
SPECIAL QUALIFICATIONS: Members must be registered voters. Members
shall be qualified and experienced in the fields of architecture, business,
engineering, construction, or real estate (when possible).
MEMBERS: 7
CHAIR: Greg Brown
MEETING DATES: 4th Wednesday of each month at 1:30 p.m.
APPTS. NEEDED: 1
THE FOLLOWING ADVISORY BOARD MEMBER HAS RESIGNED:
1. Duane Schultz -2805 Chancery Ln., 33759 - Defense Contractor
Appointed: 1/13/23
Resigned: 1/21/25, was serving 1st term
THE NAMES BELOW ARE BEING SUBMITTED FOR CONSIDERATION TO
FILL THE ABOVE VACANCY:
1. Howie Spinner - 1408 Sunset Dr., 33755, Business Owner
2. Dean Strickland - 2427 Saber Ct., 33759, Retired Attorney
Zip Codes of current members on board:
2 at 33755
2 at 33756
2 at 33767
There was council consensus to appoint Dean Strickland. Staff was directed
to place the item on the Consent Agenda.
12.5Appoint an individual to the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board for an unexpired
term through May 31, 2026.
APPOINTMENT WORKSHEET
BOARD: Parks and Recreation Board
TERM: 4 years
APPOINTED BY: City Council
FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE: Not Required
RESIDENCY REQUIREMENT: City of Clearwater
SPECIAL QUALIFICATIONS: None
MEMBERS: 7
Chair: Patric Raftery
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Council Work Session Meeting Minutes March 3, 2025
MEETING DATES: Quarterly (4th Tues.) - Jan., April, July, Oct.
PLACE: Main Library - 6:30 p.m.
APPTS. NEEDED: 1
THE FOLLOWING ADVISORY BOARD MEMBER RESIGNED, REQUIRING A
REPLACEMENT:
1. Jason Hood - 2064 Dunston Cove Rd, 33755
Original Appointment: 06/01/2022
Resigned: 1/16/2025
THE FOLLOWING NAMES ARE BEING CONSIDERED TO FILL THE
VACANCY:
1. Dina Imamovic -405 Baker Avenue, 33754 - Private Investigator
2. Timothy Burnham - Protected Property, 33763 - Tampa Fire Rescue
3. Njallssen Amaro Lionheart - 2714 Lakebreeze Ln S, 33759 - Teacher
Zip codes of current members on board:
1 at 33755
2 at 33761
1 at 33764
1 at 33767
1 at 33763
There was council consensus to appoint Timothy Burnham. Staff was
directed to place the item on the Consent Agenda.
13. City Attorney
13.1Adopt Ordinance 9818-25 on second reading, amending the Clearwater Code of
Ordinances by creating Section 2.429 to permit firefighters to purchase prior firefighter
and military service.
The City of Clearwater Employees' Pension Plan governs the payment of
retirement benefits for City employees. Chapter 175, Florida Statutes permits
firefighters to purchase prior firefighter and miliary service.
In 2024, the City and International Association of Fire Fighters agreed to a
change in the Pension Plan. Current firefighters will be eligible to purchase up
to five years of prior firefighter and miliary service. The purchased years of
service will be added to the member's years of credited service. The member
shall pay all costs associated with the purchased years of service. The Plan's
actuary has studied the cost of this ordinance and has determined that there is
no actuarial impact.
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Council Work Session Meeting Minutes March 3, 2025
14. City Manager Verbal Reports
15. City Attorney Verbal Reports
16. Council Discussion Item
16.1 Citizens Recognition Program - Councilmember Teixeira
Councilmember Teixeira requested consideration to implement a citizen
recognition program. She said each Councilmember would recognize a
citizen for their contributions to the community at a council meeting during
their closing comments.
Discussion ensued with consensus to direct staff to establish details on the
bimonthly citizen recognition program and that each Councilmember would
recognize the citizen how they want.
Councilmember Mannino requested consideration to discuss the Edgewater
Park project. He said it is important for Council to engage with the
community and react to what is heard. This project was a perfect example,
providing Council and staff time to reevaluate project components before it
was too late. He said the Edgewater Drive Neighborhood Association
oppose the pier and kayak launch, a unanimous sentiment.
Assistant City Manager Daniel Slaughter said since the project is still in the
design phase, staff can vet project components with the community to
identify potential cost savings and items not supported by the community.
17. New Business (items not on the agenda may be brought up asking they be
scheduled for subsequent meetings or work sessions in accordance with Rule 1,
Paragraph 2). — None.
18. Closing Comments by Mayor
Mayor Rector said the team's efforts after the storms are being noticed as
the city is moving forward at a pace that is being noticed by other
municipalities. He thanked Council and staff for their support and dedication.
19. Adjourn
The meeting adjourned at 4:21 p.m.
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City of Clearwater