02/18/1997HISTORIC PRESERVATION BOARD
CITY OF CLEARWATER
February 18, 1997
Present: Margaret Kiehl Vice-Chair
Ric Ortega Board Member
Jean Stuart Board Member
Cookie Gilreath Board Member
Don McCarty Senior Planner, Central Permitting
Brenda Moses Board Reporter
Absent: David C. Berry Chair
The meeting was called to order by Vice-Chair Margaret Kiehl at 1:00 p.m. at the Plumb House, 1350 South Greenwood Avenue, Clearwater. In order to provide continuity for research,
the items will be listed in agenda order although not necessarily discussed in that order.
1. Approval of Minutes - January 21, 1997
Member Gilreath moved to approve the minutes of January 21, 1997 as submitted in writing to each member. The motion was duly seconded and carried unanimously.
2. Discussion of Historic Preservation Matters
Although not a historic matter, the Mandalay Streetscape project was discussed. It is in the preliminary design phase. At the February 12, 1997 public meeting, the plan was discussed
and well-received. The project encompasses Pier 60 Drive north to the Baymont intersection. It is a 3-lane plan with a continuous center turn lane and diagonal parking. This plan
allows for large areas of green space with date and Washingtonian palms, and low level bushes and other landscaping. Brick pavers will be used for crosswalks and merchants can offer
sidewalk cafes. Overhead utility lines will be placed underground. Traffic signals will be put on “mast arms” so that no hanging wires will be visible. Informational kiosks have also
been incorporated into the project. The idea is to slow traffic, make the area more people-friendly, provide a redevelopment impetus for new business opportunities, and encourage rehabilitation
of existing buildings. It was noted although traffic would be slowed down, it would not be slowed to the point of becoming a traffic problem. Discussion ensued regarding traffic flow
and parking. It was noted that allowing turning right on red on Baymont and Poinsettia Streets would alleviate traffic problems. The project is estimated to cost $1.4 million to $1.6
million. Plans are to utilize some funds for this project from the Penny for Pinellas tax. The project is anticipated to begin the week of July 7, 1997 and be completed by the end
of December 1997.
The Pinellas Trail and the estimated timing of its completion was discussed.
The Land Development Code revision is ongoing and should enable residents and businesses to more easily obtain required permits in the City.
3. Discussion of Worthwhile Historic Projects
It was requested that members look at properties on Turner Street before the next meeting. This Board would like to write letters of commendation to property owners that have attempted
to utilize the elements of architecture and retain the basic flavor of the original historical theme of the building. It was noted because a building is old does not mean it is historic.
The meeting adjourned at 2:10 p.m.
The next meeting is scheduled for March 18, 1997 at 1:00 p.m. at the Historic Plumb House, 1350 South Greenwood Avenue, Clearwater.