08/18/2025Monday, August 18, 2025
1:00 PM
City of Clearwater
Main Library - Council Chambers
100 N. Osceola Avenue
Clearwater, FL 33755
Main Library - Council Chambers
Community Redevelopment Agency
Meeting Agenda
August 18, 2025Community Redevelopment Agency Meeting Agenda
1. Call To Order
2. Approval of Minutes
2.1 ID#25-0130 Approve the minutes of the June 2, 2025 CRA meeting as submitted in written
summation by the City Clerk.
3. Citizens to be Heard Regarding Items Not on the Agenda
4. New Business Items
4.1 ID#25-0742 Present August Business Spotlight: Consumer Energy Solutions
4.2 ID#25-0743 Approve the Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) Business Spotlight
Program 2025 that will provide exposure to businesses within the Downtown
Clearwater and North Greenwood Community Redevelopment Areas and
authorize the appropriate officials to execute same.
4.3 ID#25-0745 Approve a three-year Interlocal Agreement between the Clearwater Community
Redevelopment Agency and the Clearwater Downtown Development Board for
the refund of CRA Tax Increment fees and the provision of personnel,
administration, and management services and authorize appropriate officials to
execute the same.
5. Director's Report
5.1 ID#25-0751 CRA August Director’s Report
6. Adjourn
Page 2 City of Clearwater Printed on 8/13/2025
Cover Memo
City of Clearwater Main Library - Council
Chambers
100 N. Osceola Avenue
Clearwater, FL 33755
File Number: ID#25-0130
Agenda Date: 8/18/2025 Status: Agenda ReadyVersion: 1
File Type: MinutesIn Control: Community Redevelopment Agency
Agenda Number: 2.1
SUBJECT/RECOMMENDATION:
Approve the minutes of the June 2, 2025 CRA meeting as submitted in written summation by
the City Clerk.
Page 1 City of Clearwater Printed on 8/13/2025
Community Redevelopment Agency Meeting Minutes July 7, 2025
Page 1 City of Clearwater
City of Clearwater
Main Library - Council Chambers
100 N. Osceola Avenue
Clearwater, FL 33755
Meeting Minutes
Monday, July 7, 2025
1:00 PM
Main Library - Council Chambers
Community Redevelopment Agency Draft
Community Redevelopment Agency Meeting Minutes July 7, 2025
Page 2 City of Clearwater
Rollcall
Present 5 - Chair Bruce Rector, Trustee Ryan Cotton, Trustee Michael Mannino,
Trustee David Allbritton, and Trustee Lina Teixeira
Also Present: Jennifer Poirrier – City Manager, Daniel Slaughter – Assistant City Manager, Alfred Battle – Assistant City Manager, David Margolis –
City Attorney, Rosemarie Call – City Clerk, Nicole Sprague – Deputy
City Clerk, and Jesus Niño – CRA Executive Director
To provide continuity for research, items are listed in agenda order although not
necessarily discussed in that order.
Unapproved
1. Call to Order – Chair Rector
The meeting was called to order at 1:59 p.m.
2. Approval of Minutes
2.1 Approve the minutes of the June 2, 2025 CRA meeting as submitted in written summation
by the City Clerk.
Trustee Teixeira moved to approve the minutes of the June 2,
2025 CRA meeting as submitted in written summation by the City
Clerk. The motion was duly seconded and carried unanimously.
3. Citizens to be Heard Regarding Items Not on the Agenda – None. 4. New Business Items
4.1 Approve a Lease, Property Operation, and Grant Agreement between the Community
Redevelopment Agency (CRA), the City of Clearwater (City), and the Clearwater Urban
Leadership Coalition (CULC); and authorize the appropriate officials to execute same.
The purpose of this item is to approve a Lease, Property Operation, and Grant
Agreement between the City, the CRA, and CULC (Lease). The City and CRA
jointly issued a request for letters of interest (LOI) for an operator of a shipping
container village to whom the City and CRA would lease certain real property to
for such purpose. Draft
Community Redevelopment Agency Meeting Minutes July 7, 2025
Page 3 City of Clearwater
The CRA-owned property is addressed as 1325 N. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Avenue, Clearwater, FL 33755 and the City-owned properties are addressed as
1321 N. Martin Luther King, Jr. Avenue, Clearwater, FL 33755; 1317 N. Martin
Luther King, Jr. Avenue, Clearwater, FL 33755; and 1106 Tangerine Street,
Clearwater, FL 33755 (collectively, the aforementioned properties are the
“Project Site”). The legal description for the CRA-owned property is provided
below:
Lot 16 of Block "C" of Greenwood Park, according to the map or plat thereof as
recorded in Plat Book 8, Page 22 of the Public Records of Pinellas County,
Florida.
On January 13, 2025, the CRA Board of Trustees selected CULC as the winner
of the request for LOI and authorized the CRA Director to enter lease
negotiations with CULC.
The Clearwater Urban Leadership Coalition (CULC) proposes to establish a
shipping container village consisting of an assortment of not less than five
shipping containers repurposed to provide commercial space to businesses
offering retail, dining, and entertainment experiences at the Project Site.
The Lease shall be for an initial term of ten years with two five-year renewal
periods at the sole option of CULC. Rent shall be due in installments of
$2,000.00 per month increasing 3% annually. However, no rent shall be due for
the first four years of the initial term. Additionally, the Lease also contains a
development timeline that CULC must meet to maintain compliance with the
Lease. Under the Lease, the CRA will also be giving CULC a grant in the
amount of $500,000.00 to aid in the development of the village. Additional
details on rent, expenses, and terms are outlined in the Lease.
Staff recommends approval of the Lease.
STRATEGIC PRIORITY:
2.1 Strengthen public-private initiatives that attract, develop, and retain
diversified business sectors.
2.2 Cultivate a business climate that welcomes entrepreneurship, inspires local
investment, and supports Eco-friendly enterprises, and encourages high-quality
job growth.
One individual spoke in support. Draft
Community Redevelopment Agency Meeting Minutes July 7, 2025
Page 4 City of Clearwater
Trustee Allbritton moved to approve a Lease, Property Operation,
and Grant Agreement between the Community Redevelopment
Agency (CRA), the City of Clearwater (City), and the Clearwater
Urban Leadership Coalition (CULC); and authorize the
appropriate officials to execute same. The motion was duly
seconded and carried unanimously.
4.2 Approve a Downtown Clearwater Commercial Grant for Talanga’s Holding, LLC, located
at 1343 Cleveland St., Clearwater, FL 33755, in an amount not to exceed $106,786.78
and authorize the appropriate officials to execute same The Downtown Clearwater Commercial Grant Program is designed to support
commercial property and business owners within the Downtown Clearwater
Community Redevelopment Area (DTCRA) by providing financial assistance for
improvements that enhance the appearance, functionality, and economic
viability of properties. The program consolidates previous grant offerings into a
single, more accessible structure to better serve applicants and advance the
goals of the Downtown Redevelopment Plan.
On April 28, 2025, CRA staff received a grant application from Talanga’s
Holding, LLC for a series of building and site improvements. The proposed work
includes:
• Retroactive Reimbursement for:
• Security Camera System
o Large Fans
o Cooler Repairs
o Fryer
o Signage
• Future Work for:
o Paving & Parking Lot Paint
o Electrical
o HVAC
The total estimated cost of the project is $194,157.79, and the applicant will
provide a 45% match, totaling $87,371.01.
Staff recommends approval of the grant in an amount not to exceed
$106,786.78.
If approved, CRA staff will work with the applicant to execute a grant agreement
outlining the terms and conditions. Grant funds will be disbursed upon Draft
Community Redevelopment Agency Meeting Minutes July 7, 2025
Page 5 City of Clearwater
submission and verification of all required documentation, including permits,
itemized budgets, and photographic evidence of work performed.
APPROPRIATION CODE AND AMOUNT:
Funds for this new program are available in R2003- Economic
Development-City in an amount of $800,000 for FY 2023-2024.
STRATEGIC PRIORITY:
2.1 Strengthen public-private initiatives that attract, develop, and retain
diversified business sectors.
2.2 Cultivate a business climate that welcomes entrepreneurship, inspires local
investment, supports Eco-friendly enterprises, and encourages high-quality job
growth.
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.
Trustee Mannino moved to approve a Downtown Clearwater
Commercial Grant for Talanga’s Holding, LLC, located at 1343
Cleveland St., Clearwater, FL 33755, in an amount not to exceed
$106,786.78 and authorize the appropriate officials to execute
same. The motion was duly seconded and carried unanimously.
4.3 Discuss St. Petersburg College and City of Clearwater partnership to bring a
Management Consulting Services pilot program to the North Greenwood CRA The City of Clearwater, in partnership with the College of Business at St.
Petersburg College (SPC), is prepared to launch a Management Consulting
Services (MCS) Pilot Program designed to strengthen local business
performance while advancing student professional development.
This initiative offers pro-bono consulting services to one Clearwater-based
business per quarter, delivered by a team of junior business consultants-SPC
students enrolled in an intensive 8-week Management Consulting course.
These students will operate under the expert leadership of Dr. Andy Rojas, a
seasoned professor with over 25 years of consulting experience across diverse
industries.
Program Overview:
• Duration: 8 weeks (beginning October 2025) Draft
Community Redevelopment Agency Meeting Minutes July 7, 2025
Page 6 City of Clearwater
• Participation: One small to medium-sized Clearwater business per
quarter
• Consulting Team: 7-10 students per project, led by Dr. Rojas
• Deliverables: A comprehensive, co-branded business report that
includes a SWOT analysis, industry and competitive research, and a
tailored strategic growth plan
Business Commitment Requirements:
• Signed Certificate: To recognize student participation and achievement
• Availability: Participation in two in-person meetings (onboarding and final
presentation) and virtual collaboration throughout the engagement
• Open Communication: Ongoing access to company information and
personnel as needed
Benefits to Participating Businesses:
• Complimentary business assessment and strategic growth plan
• Customized insights into operational improvements and competitive
advantages
• Contribution to student career readiness and community-wide economic
development
Next Steps:
City staff met with leaders of the Clearwater Urban Leadership Coalition and Dr.
Rojas to discuss the pilot program, and both sides were excited about this
collaboration and would like to proceed in the process. Dr. Rojas will list the
course for open enrollment and as soon as they have a minimum of six
students enrolled, we can proceed.
The St. Petersburg College Management Consulting Services pilot program
represents a unique opportunity to foster innovation, education, and economic
development in Clearwater by bridging academic talent with real-world business
challenges.
STRATEGIC PRIORITY:
2.5 Facilitate partnerships with educational and research institutions to
strengthen workforce development opportunities.
2.1 Strengthen public-private initiatives that attract, develop, and retain
diversified business sector.
2.3 Cultivate a business climate that welcomes entrepreneurship, inspires local
investment, supports eco-friendly enterprises and encourages high-quality job
growth.
3.1 Support neighborhood identity through services and programs that empower
community pride and belonging. Draft
Community Redevelopment Agency Meeting Minutes July 7, 2025
Page 7 City of Clearwater
The Trustees supported the partnerships and thanked staff for their
efforts.
No action taken.
5. Director's Report
CRA Executive Director Jesus Niño reviewed recent events and staff
efforts. He said staff will begin to provide regular updates regarding
construction in Downtown, the former North Ward Elementary School site
redevelopment, and the Reimagine Main Library Project. Planning and
Development staff will be presenting an update on the North Ward school
site at a council work session which will include an update by the architect.
He said staff has been working with other city departments to coordinate
efforts to establish a comprehensive list of Downtown residents,
stakeholders,and organizations in order to communicate construction related
updates. He said the information is also available online. Staff received six
proposals for the Reimagine Main Library Project; recommendations will
be presented to the Trustees after the review process is completed.
In response to questions, Mr. Niño said the construction webpage identifies
all city-related or city-initiated construction projects. The communication
strategy to inform the public on Downtown construction includes social
media and staff interactions. He said staff is always considering new
ideas and technologies that will improve outreach efforts.
6. Adjourn
The meeting adjourned at 2:13 p.m.
Chair Community Redevelopment Agency
Attest
City Clerk Draft
Cover Memo
City of Clearwater Main Library - Council
Chambers
100 N. Osceola Avenue
Clearwater, FL 33755
File Number: ID#25-0742
Agenda Date: 8/18/2025 Status: Agenda ReadyVersion: 1
File Type: Action ItemIn Control: Community Redevelopment Agency
Agenda Number: 4.1
SUBJECT/RECOMMENDATION:
Present August Business Spotlight: Consumer Energy Solutions
SUMMARY:
Consumer Energy Solutions is the eighth recipient of the Business Spotlight Program.
Located at 1255 Cleveland Street, this energy brokerage firm has operated in Downtown Clearwater for over
25 years. Since 1999, the team has helped more than 1.3 million homes and businesses lower their
electricity and natural gas costs through fixed-rate plans.
Founded by Patrick Clouden, the company is known for its strong workplace culture and long-standing
community involvement. It has been recognized as a Tampa Bay Top Workplace for eight consecutive
years and received the Tampa Bay Business Journal’s Corporate Philanthropy Award in 2016.
Their outreach includes youth drug prevention efforts, support for local events and toy drives, and over two
decades of partnership with a tutoring center that serves more than 70 students.
Through these efforts, the business continues to make a meaningful impact in Downtown Clearwater while
leading with purpose and service.
STRATEGIC PRIORITY:
2.1 Strengthen public-private initiatives that attract, develop, and retain diversified business sector.
3.1 Support neighborhood identity through services and programs that empower community pride and
belonging.
Page 1 City of Clearwater Printed on 8/13/2025
1255 CLEVELAND ST # 400
CLEARWATER, FL 33755
1255 Cleveland St Ste 400, Clearwater, FL 33755
Cover Memo
City of Clearwater Main Library - Council
Chambers
100 N. Osceola Avenue
Clearwater, FL 33755
File Number: ID#25-0743
Agenda Date: 8/18/2025 Status: Agenda ReadyVersion: 1
File Type: Action ItemIn Control: Community Redevelopment Agency
Agenda Number: 4.2
SUBJECT/RECOMMENDATION:
Approve the Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) Business Spotlight Program 2025 that will provide
exposure to businesses within the Downtown Clearwater and North Greenwood Community
Redevelopment Areas and authorize the appropriate officials to execute same.
SUMMARY:
The Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) recommends approving Business Spotlight Program 2025
to support its continued goals of attracting residents, visitors, businesses, and employees to Downtown
Clearwater and North Greenwood. Over the past year, CRA staff has worked in partnership with business
owners and community stakeholders to shape a program that strengthens local connections and
recognizes economic and cultural contributions throughout both redevelopment areas.
The purpose of the CRA Business Spotlight Program 2025 is to recognize and promote outstanding local
businesses that drive economic vitality, reflect community values, and enhance neighborhood pride.
Through targeted marketing campaigns, public outreach, and formal recognition, the program will offer
meaningful exposure to both longstanding and emerging businesses in the community.
This expanded version of the program directly supports the goals of both the 2018 Clearwater Downtown
Redevelopment Plan and the 2023 North Greenwood Community Redevelopment Area Plan, specifically:
2018 Clearwater Downtown Redevelopment Plan
·People Goals: Downtown shall be a place that attracts residents, visitors, businesses, and their
employees and enables the development of community. The City shall encourage a vibrant and active
public realm, recreation and entertainment opportunities, and support neighborhoods.
·Objective 1D: Encourage a variety of office-intensive businesses to relocate and expand in Downtown
to provide a stable employment center.
2023 North Greenwood CRA Plan
·Goal 5: Quality of Life: Sustain a high quality of life through community engagement, access to
recreational opportunities, celebrating the unique culture of North Greenwood, improving public health, and
protecting the environment.
The program will select nine businesses in total, comprised of Legacy Recipients and Spotlight Winners.
Legacy Recipients must have been in continuous operation for at least 10 years within the CRA
redevelopment boundary areas and meet all standard eligibility criteria.
Following program approval by the CRA Trustees, the application window will remain open for four weeks.
Applications will be reviewed by a selection committee composed of CRA staff, City of Clearwater
representatives, and community stakeholders. Once selections are finalized, participating businesses will
be publicly recognized and engaged through coordinated promotional campaigns and events.
The proposed program meets the goals of the Downtown Redevelopment Plan the North Greenwood
Community Redevelopment Area Plan and provides a partnership opportunity for business owners who
wish to establish a sense of community in our redevelopment area.
Funding for this program, in an amount not to exceed $5,000, will be used for printing flyers and other
marketing to help administer this program as authorized by Florida Statute 163.387(6)(c)1.
APPROPRIATION CODE AND AMOUNT:
Funding for this program, available in the operating budget, will be coded to either the Downtown
Page 1 City of Clearwater Printed on 8/13/2025
File Number: ID#25-0743
Clearwater or North Greenwood CRA based on the recipient’s geographic location in amount not to exceed
$5,000.
STRATEGIC PRIORITY:
2.2 Cultivate a business climate that welcomes entrepreneurship, inspires local investment, supports
Eco-friendly enterprises, and encourages high-quality growth.
3.1 Support neighborhood identity through services and programs that empower community pride and
belonging.
3.3 Promote marketing and outreach strategies that encourage stakeholder engagement, enhancement
community education, and build public trust.
Page 2 City of Clearwater Printed on 8/13/2025
______________________________________________________________________________
A. Program Overview
The purpose of the Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) Business Spotlight Program
2025 is to recognize and promote outstanding businesses within the Downtown Clearwater and
North Greenwood Redevelopment Areas. Building upon the foundation of the original Business
Spotlight Program 2025, the expansion aims to uplift businesses that contribute to the area’s
economic vitality, cultural richness, and community pride. The initiative provides exposure
through marketing campaigns, promotional activities, and public recognition.
The approval of the program will be established by the Community Redevelopment Agency
Trustees on an annual basis. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis. The application
form is available by clicking on the link provided myclearwatercra.com/shine-apply
This program directly promotes the goals and objectives of the 2018 Clearwater Downtown
Redevelopment Plan and the 2023 North Greenwood Community Redevelopment Area Plan,
specifically:
2018 Clearwater Downtown Redevelopment Plan
People Goals (page 46): Downtown shall be a place that attracts residents, visitors,
businesses, and their employees and enable the development of community. The City
shall encourage a vibrant and active public realm, recreation and entertainment
opportunities and support the community and neighborhoods.
o Objective 1D: Encourage a variety of office-intensive businesses, including
finance and insurance, IT/Software, professional services, data management,
analytics and services, and medical to relocate and expand in Downtown to
provide a stable employment center.
2023 North Greenwood Community Redevelopment Area Plan
Goal 3: Poverty Reduction (pg. 93)
o Objective: Increase access to high paying jobs for residents of the North
Greenwood CRA within and outside the area through workforce development,
business assistance programs, and support for entrepreneurs.
Goal 5: Quality of Life (pg. 94)
o Objective: Sustain a high quality of life through community engagement,
recreational access, celebrating the unique culture of North Greenwood,
improving public health, and protecting the environment.
o
Program Eligibility
The Community Redevelopment Agency staff will administer the Business Spotlight Program
2025. Approval for this program is contingent on the CRA Trustees. Application submission does
not guarantee approval. Applications will be reviewed for completeness and compliance with the
program criteria. Applications that do not comply with the program criteria and conditions will
not be eligible.
All applications must meet the following criteria:
Location: The business must be physically located within the boundaries of either the
Downtown Clearwater Community Redevelopment Area (CRA) or the North Greenwood
Redevelopment Area. (See attached maps)
Legal Compliance: The business must be legally registered and compliant with all local,
state, and federal regulations.
Operational Status: During the application process, the business should be actively
operating and open to the public.
Eligible Business Types:
o Retail and restaurant businesses
o Personal Services Industries (e.g., barber and beauty shops, health spas, dance
studios, photography and art studios, tailoring, and other similar services)
o Galleries, theaters, other cultural and community gathering spaces.
Commitment to Community: Businesses must demonstrate meaningful engagement
with the local community through participation in neighborhood events, support for local
initiatives, partnerships with area organizations, or similar contributions to community
well-being.
Business Recipient Requirements: Selected businesses are required to participate in
program-related activities, including promotional events, marketing campaigns, and any
community engagement efforts coordinated by the CRA.
Legacy Recipient Eligibility
In recognition of long-standing contributions to the community, Legacy Recipients will be
selected as part of the program. To qualify, a business must:
Have been in continuous operation for at least 10 years within the North Greenwood
Redevelopment Area
Meet all other standard eligibility criteria listed above
C. Program Process
Businesses interested in participating in the Business Spotlight Program 2025 must complete
and submit an official application. CRA staff will oversee the review and selection process. Once
an application is completed and in compliance with the program, the selection committee will
contact approved applicants to proceed with the next steps of the process. A total of nine (9)
businesses will be selected comprised of Legacy Recipients and Spotlight Winners. Below is a
comprehensive outline of the procedural steps involved in the program:
Application Submission: Interested businesses within the designated Community
Redevelopment Area (CRA) submit their applications through the designated portal on
the Community Redevelopment Agency website, hand-delivered, or via email to
tasha.hadley@myclearwater.com Each application will undergo review to ensure
alignment with the objectives outlined in the Downtown Redevelopment Area Plan and
the North Greenwood Community Redevelopment Area Plan. A representative from the
CRA will provide general guidance and support to potential applicants throughout the
application process. Incomplete applications will not be accepted.
Review and Evaluation: The selection committee reviews all received applications to
ensure they meet the eligibility criteria outlined for the program. This may involve
verifying the business's location within the CRA boundaries, legal compliance, and
operational status. The property must be free from any liens (except mortgage liens),
judgments, or encumbrances (except easements) of any kind, and all city obligations must
be current. The applicant must possess a current City of Clearwater Business Tax Receipt
and must be the business owner or a registered agent. Applications that meet the criteria
proceed to the evaluation stage.
Selection Process: A selection committee comprised of representatives from the CRA,
the City of Clearwater, and community stakeholders evaluates the eligible applications.
They consider factors such as the business's alignment with program goals, its potential
impact on the community, and its readiness to participate in program activities.
Notification of Selection: Businesses selected to participate in the program are notified
of their acceptance via email followed by a scheduled one-on-one meeting. They will
receive detailed information about the program guidelines, including expectations,
benefits, promotional activities, opportunities for engagement, and next steps.
Business Recipient Requirements: Throughout the program duration, selected
businesses actively engage in promotional activities coordinated by the CRA. This may
include participation in marketing campaigns, attendance at community and networking
events and/or CRA council meetings.
D. Program Timeline
The proposed program timeline begins with presenting the Business Spotlight Program 2025 for
approval by the CRA Trustees at a CRA meeting. Following approval, the Business Spotlight
Program 2025 will follow a marketing and communications plan. The application window will
be open for four (4) weeks to allow businesses to submit their applications. Subsequently,
committee members will dedicate four (4) weeks to carefully review and assess all received
applications. Upon completion of the review process, approved businesses will be notified, and
one-on-one meetings will be scheduled to discuss timelines, expectations, and other pertinent
details. Finally, at future CRA meeting, a representative from the CRA will formally present the
final recipients of the Business Spotlight, culminating the selection process and recognizing the
chosen winners.
E. Next Steps
If you are interested in learning more about the Business Spotlight Program 2025, please click on
the link provided myclearwatercra.com/spotlight or contact Tasha Hadley at
tasha.hadley@myclearwater.com
Cover Memo
City of Clearwater Main Library - Council
Chambers
100 N. Osceola Avenue
Clearwater, FL 33755
File Number: ID#25-0745
Agenda Date: 8/18/2025 Status: Agenda ReadyVersion: 1
File Type: Action ItemIn Control: Community Redevelopment Agency
Agenda Number: 4.3
SUBJECT/RECOMMENDATION:
Approve a three-year Interlocal Agreement between the Clearwater Community Redevelopment Agency
and the Clearwater Downtown Development Board for the refund of CRA Tax Increment fees and the
provision of personnel, administration, and management services and authorize appropriate officials to
execute the same.
SUMMARY:
On August 4, 2025, Downtown Development Board Meeting, the board approved a three-year interlocal
agreement for the refund of increment payment and an annual management fee.
Florida Statute 163.387 requires all taxing authorities within a Community Redevelopment Area (CRA),
including the Downtown Development Board (DDB), to make an annual appropriation equal to the
incremental increase in ad valorem revenue generated within the CRA boundaries.
Since the Fiscal Year 1999-2000, the CRA has provided personnel, administrative, and management
services to the DDB through an Interlocal Agreement, which also includes a refund of the difference
between the increment payment and the management fee.
In accordance with Florida Statute 163.01, the DDB and CRA are authorized to enter into such
agreements. Under this agreement, the DDB will continue to fund and support projects and programs
consistent with the Downtown Redevelopment Plan.
This proposed three-year Interlocal Agreement reinforces the ongoing collaboration between the DDB and
CRA in advancing downtown redevelopment goals. It also includes an annual 5% increase to the CRA
management fee over the term of the agreement as follows:
·FY 2025/2026 - $90,365
·FY 2026/2027 - $94,883
·FY 2027/2028 - $99,627
Approval is recommended to formalize this partnership and continue effective coordination of downtown
initiatives.
APPROPRIATION CODE AND AMOUNT:
STRATEGIC PRIORITY:
Page 1 City of Clearwater Printed on 8/13/2025
FY25/26-FY27/28 CRA/DDB Interlocal Agreement
1
INTERLOCAL AGREEMENT
This Interlocal Agreement is made and entered into this ____ day of __________, 2025,
by and between the Community Redevelopment Agency of the City of Clearwater, Florida
(CRA), a redevelopment agency established pursuant to law, and the Downtown
Development Board (DDB), a special district organized and operating pursuant to the
ordinances and laws of the City of Clearwater.
WHEREAS, Florida Statutes 163.387 requires all taxing authorities to make an annual
appropriation in an amount equal to the incremental increase in the ad valorem revenue
within the CRA area; and
WHEREAS, the DDB is a taxing authority within the meaning of the statute; and
WHEREAS, the CRA and the DDB in the spirit of cooperation desire to offer the downtown
constituents the opportunity to utilize more efficiently the public dollars collected for each
entity; and
WHEREAS, the CRA and the DDB have a special obligation to ensure wise and sound
administration of the programs; and
WHEREAS, the CRA and the DDB desire to enter into an Interlocal Agreement outlining
the scope of services and responsibilities of the parties; and
WHEREAS, the CRA and the DDB wish to enter into a three year
Interlocal Agreement pursuant to Florida Statues 163.01, in which the DDB agrees to
perform certain responsibilities and functions consistent with and in furtherance of the
Downtown Redevelopment Plan, in return for an amount equal to the amount of the
increment payment and the DDB pays the CRA for administration.
NOW THEREFORE, in consideration of the covenants made by each party to the other
and of the mutual advantages realized by the parties hereto, the DDB and the CRA agree
as follows:
Section 1. Term. The term of this Interlocal Agreement will be October 1, 2025,
through September 30, 2028.
Section 2. Intent. It is the intent of the parties that the moneys paid to the CRA by the
DDB pursuant to Florida Statute section 163.387, commonly referred to as the tax
increment payment, be used to advance the goals and objectives of the Downtown
Redevelopment Plan. The CRA shall retain an amount that would increase by five
percent (5%) on an annual basis to offset the cost of administration of the DDB as further
described herein. The remaining money shall be returned to the DDB by the CRA in
exchange for performance of certain responsibilities and functions by the DDB consistent
with and in furtherance of the Downtown Redevelopment Plan.
FY25/26-FY27/28 CRA/DDB Interlocal Agreement
2
Section 3. Responsibilities of the DDB. The DDB will promote, facilitate and support
activities that sustain, promote and advance downtown revitalization and attract
businesses and residents to relocate and stay in the DDB’s district. In furtherance of
these goals, the DDB will:
a. Assist the city and the CRA to guide and accomplish the coordinated,
balanced and harmonious development of the District in accordance with
existing and future needs;
b. Create strategic alignment among property owners, businesses, residents
and both governmental and private organizations in the District;
c. Create a sense of community that supports existing businesses and
residents and attracts new businesses and residents to the District;
d. Assist the city and the CRA in implementation of the Clearwater Downtown
Redevelopment Plan and any amendments or successor thereto; and
e. Assist the city and CRA to provide a way of life which combines the
conveniences and amenities of modern living with the traditions of pleasure
of the past.
Section 4. Responsibilities of the CRA. The services that the CRA will provide are:
a. Prepare correspondence for DDB members;
b. Maintain all DDB funds in the City’s bank account and with funds
segregated for accounting purposes in the City’s records as a separated,
interest-earning fund;
c. Assist with preparation and monitoring of the annual budget and prepare
amendments as necessary;
d. Prepare monthly financial reports;
e. Prepare agendas and distribute packets to DDB members prior to each
meeting;
f. Prepare meeting notices for monthly and special DDB meetings;
g. Coordinate committee meetings, if applicable;
h. Handle all phone inquiries and follow up on the calls;
i. Handle any special mailing notices;
j. Serve as coordinator for the DDB special activities;
k. Assist in research and implementation of projects initiated by the Board;
l. Assist with promoting design related programs to the downtown community;
m. Manage loans, contracts and all applicable documents;
n. Coordinate field trips and travel arrangements in accordance with the City
of Clearwater Travel and Meals Policy;
o. Other administrative duties as mutually agreed;
p. Act as a Liaison to the Pinellas County Property Appraiser, Pinellas County
Tax Collector
q. Assure that the annual audit is conducted in compliance with requirements
of the State of Florida Auditor General;
FY25/26-FY27/28 CRA/DDB Interlocal Agreement
3
r. Comply with State of Florida Tax Increment Millage Compliance with
Chapter 200, Florida Statutes, Sections 218.23, 218.63, Florida Statutes
(TRIM);
s. Comply with the Florida Department of State Information Services Records
Disposition Act;
t. Comply with the State of Florida Department of Community Affairs Special
District Information Program;
u. Comply with the State of Florida Department of Insurance Treasurer’s
Public Depositor Annual Report; and
v. Coordinate financial disclosure requirements of the State of Florida
Commission on Ethics.
Section 5. Compensation. In return for the above services, the CRA shall pay to the
DDB this difference upon receiving the increment payment from the DDB. The budget
for the CRA for services listed in Section 4 above shall be as follows:
• FY 2025-2026: $90,365
• FY2026-2027: $94,883
• FY 2027-2028: $99,627
Section 6. Notice. Any notice by either party to the other pursuant to the Interlocal
Agreement shall be given in writing and hand-delivered or mailed as follows:
Chairperson, Board of Trustees
Community Redevelopment Agency
600 Cleveland Street, Suite 600
Clearwater, Florida 33755
Chairperson
Downtown Development Board
Post Office Box 4748
Clearwater, Florida 33758-4748
Section 7. Entire Agreement. This document embodies the whole Agreement of the
parties. There are no promises, terms, conditions, or allegations other than those
contained herein. This Agreement shall be binding on the parties, their successors,
assigns and legal representatives.
Section 8. Filing Effective Date. As required by Section 163.01(11), Florida Statutes,
the Interlocal Agreement shall be filed with the Clerk of the Circuit Court of Pinellas County
after execution by the parties and shall take effect upon the date of filing.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto, or their lawful representative, have executed
this agreement as of the date first above written.
FY25/26-FY27/28 CRA/DDB Interlocal Agreement
4
COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY OF THE
CITY OF CLEARWATER, FLORIDA
By: ______________________________
Bruce Rector., Chairperson
ATTEST:
By: ______________________________
Rosemarie Call, City Clerk
Approved as to form:
__________________________
Michael P. Fuino
Attorney for CRA
DOWNTOWN DEVELOPMENT BOARD
BY:
Bruce Rector, Chairperson
Approved as to form:
__________________________
David Margolis
Attorney for DDB
Cover Memo
City of Clearwater Main Library - Council
Chambers
100 N. Osceola Avenue
Clearwater, FL 33755
File Number: ID#25-0751
Agenda Date: 8/18/2025 Status: Agenda ReadyVersion: 1
File Type: Action ItemIn Control: Community Redevelopment Agency
Agenda Number: 5.1
SUBJECT/RECOMMENDATION:
CRA August Director’s Report
SUMMARY:
Page 1 City of Clearwater Printed on 8/13/2025
|1DOWNTOWN CLEARWATER COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AREA
ZZDirectors Report
August 2025
|2CLEARWATER COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY
Table of Contents
Clearwater CRA Updates
• Downtown Construction Updates
• Cleveland Street Activation
• CRA/Clearwater Police Engagement
• North Greenwood CAC
• Property Disposition Updates
• North Ward Elementary School Updates
|3DOWNTOWN CLEARWATER COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AREA
Downtown CRA Updates
|4DOWNTOWN CLEARWATER COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AREA
Downtown Construction Communication
The CRA is collaborating with Public Comms and other
departments through weekly meetings to coordinate
Downtown Clearwater construction updates.
Information is shared with the public through the
following channels:
•MyClearwater.com/DowntownConstruction
•Monthly CRA Community Meetings
•Downtown Constriction Newsletter
•CRA and City social media channels
|5DOWNTOWN CLEARWATER COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AREA
Downtown Construction Communication
Fire Station 45 Demolition
Asbestos Removal
•Began the week of July 28, 2025
Inspection Period
•10-day waiting period after remediation
for County inspection and sign-off
Demolition Timeline
•Demolition to be scheduled following County approval
•Project estimated for completion December 1, 2025
|6DOWNTOWN CLEARWATER COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AREA
Downtown Construction Communication
The CRA Community meeting are held
every last Tuesday of the month
Date: August 26
Time: 3 to 4 p.m.
Location:Clearwater Main Library,
(Council Chambers 1ST Floor)
Next Meeting
|7DOWNTOWN CLEARWATER COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AREA
Cleveland Street Activation Updates
Concept focus
Shade Structures- Sail Canopies
Staff is assessing the feasibility of installing
engineered shade sails along the 400–500 blocks
of Cleveland Street.
•Improve walkability
•Add visual vibrancy
•Support downtown
activation goals
Next Steps:
Present Pilot zones,
concept designs, and
funding strategies to
BPRC for feedback.
|8DOWNTOWN CLEARWATER COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AREA
Cleveland Street Activation Updates
Concept focus
Bike Racks/Kiosks
Staff is developing plans for the installation of new
bike racks along the 400–700 blocks
of Cleveland Street.
•Replace existing bike racks
•Expand amount of bike racks
•Explore digital kiosks
Next Steps:
Staff will present the
second concept plan at
the August 13 BPRC
Meeting.
|9DOWNTOWN CLEARWATER COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AREA
Cleveland Street Activation Updates
Additional Details
Cleveland Street Median Lighting
Lew Electric installed programmable, color-changing
median lights along the 400–500 blocks of Cleveland
Street, on 11 oak trees, from August 1–9.
•Contractor is also working in
Coachman Park
|10DOWNTOWN CLEARWATER COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AREA
Reimagine Clearwater – Main Library Redevelopment
The City of Clearwater received 6 submissions in
response to the Reimagine Clearwater Main Library
Call for Development Concepts.
•Aug 1:Top 3 proposals selected by Review
Committee
•Aug 15:Finalists present to committee
•Sept 18:Final recommendation is shared
Next Steps:
|11DOWNTOWN CLEARWATER COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AREA
Downtown Clearwater CRA Police Statistics 2025
Arrest Ordinance violations FIR/Citizen contacts Marchman Act Safe Harbor transport Trespassing warning
issued
Trespass after warning
(Arrest)
Apr. 25 21 7 8 0 1 8 3
May. 25 7 4 0 0 1 10 2
Jun. 25 6 4 20 2 1 7 1
0
5
10
15
20
25
|12DOWNTOWN CLEARWATER COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AREA
Downtown Clearwater CRA Police Statistics 2025
Directed patrols Offence/incident reports taken
Apr. 25 101 54
May. 25 99 45
Jun. 25 67 67
0
20
40
60
80
100
120
Apr. 25 May. 25 Jun. 25
•66 new individuals identified
(↑14 from May)
•10 placed at Safe Harbor
(↓3 from May)
•20 placed at Pinellas Hope
•5 self-transported
•5 transported by CPD
Shelter Assistance Contacts:
|13DOWNTOWN CLEARWATER COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AREA
Downtown Clearwater CRA Police Statistics 2025
Relocation Assistance:
31 individuals were assisted
with transportation to other
states, including:
Kansas, South Carolina,
Alabama, Ohio, Minnesota,
Pennsylvania, Idaho, Virginia,
New York, Louisiana, Georgia,
Florida (Orlando & Naples),
and North Carolina.
|14NORTH GREENWOOD COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AREA
North Greenwood CRA Updates
|15NORTH GREENWOOD COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AREA
North Greenwood CAC Open Vacancy
This volunteer role is open to residents
or business/nonprofit owners located within
the North Greenwood CRA.
•Term starts October 1, 2025
•Application deadline:August 20 at 3 p.m.
•Find the application on MyClearwaterCRA.com
The City of Clearwater is accepting applications for
one open seat on the North Greenwood CRA Citizens
Advisory Committee.
|17NORTH GREENWOOD COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AREA
Property Disposition Updates
|18CLEARWATER COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY
Property Disposition Updates
Tranche 1 – Surplus Properties
•Tentative release in September
•Parcel list is still being finalized
•No responses for non-economic parcels in North
Greenwood CRA
•1 formal offer received for other citywide parcels;
under review by TRC on July 28
•Staff is following up on 3 additional expressions of interest
Tranche 2 – North Greenwood CRA Parcels
•2 offers received:
-1164 LaSalle Street
-4-parcel site near Curtis Elementary
•TRC to review proposals on July 28
Tranche 3 – Washington Ave & MLK Site
•7-parcel multifamily site to be released in August
•Phase I Environmental Study required and in progress
Tranche 4 – Upcoming
|19CLEARWATER COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY
North Ward Elementary School Update
A presentation by Planning &
Development staff and Rowe
Architects has been prepared for
the City Council Work Session
meeting on September 15, 2025.
Update: