11/27/2025Monday, November 17, 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 - Final
November 17, 2025Community Redevelopment Agency Meeting Agenda - Final
1. Call To Order
2. Approval of Minutes
2.1 Approve the minutes of the September 15, 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 Approve, in an amount not to exceed $122,438.25, for the Downtown
Commercial Grant to 45 Sports Bar and Lounge, LLC, located at 1409
Cleveland Street, Clearwater, FL 33756, and authorize the appropriate officials
to execute the same.
4.2 Downtown Revitalization.
5. Director's Report
5.1 CRA October Director’s Report
6. Adjourn
Page 2 City of Clearwater Printed on 2/27/2026
Cover Memo
City of Clearwater Main Library - Council
Chambers
100 N. Osceola Avenue
Clearwater, FL 33755
File Number: ID#25-0132
Agenda Date: 11/17/2025 Status: PassedVersion: 1
File Type: MinutesIn Control: Community Redevelopment Agency
Agenda Number: 2.1
SUBJECT/RECOMMENDATION:
Approve the minutes of the September 15, 2025 CRA meeting as submitted in written
summation by the City Clerk.
Page 1 City of Clearwater Printed on 2/27/2026
Community Redevelopment Agency Meeting Minutes September 15, 2025
Page 1
City of Clearwater
City of Clearwater
Main Library - Council Chambers
100 N. Osceola Avenue
Clearwater, FL 33755
Meeting Minutes
Monday, September 15, 2025
1:00 PM
Main Library - Council Chambers
Community Redevelopment Agency
Community Redevelopment Agency Meeting Minutes September 15, 2025
Page 2
City of Clearwater
Roll Call
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, 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.
DRAFT 1. Call to Order – Chair Rector 2. Approval of Minutes
2.1 Approve the minutes of the August 18, 2025 CRA meeting as submitted in written
summation by the City Clerk.
Trustee Teixeira moved to approve the minutes of the August 18,
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 three-year Interlocal Agreement between the Clearwater Community
Redevelopment Agency and the City of Clearwater to provide CRA increment funding to
underwrite the cost of additional Community Policing services in the Downtown CRA
boundaries and authorize the appropriate officials to execute the same.
Since 2008, the CRA has partnered with the Clearwater Police Department to
provide enhanced community policing within the Downtown Community
Redevelopment Area. This partnership has supported two additional police
officers dedicated to addressing quality-of-life issues, including illegal narcotics
activity, prostitution, homelessness, and code enforcement challenges.
Florida Statute 163.387 allows for the payment of community policing
innovations in the Community Redevelopment Areas.
Historically, this partnership has been approved through annual interlocal
agreements. The proposed agreement establishes a three-year term (October
Community Redevelopment Agency Meeting Minutes September 15, 2025
Page 3
City of Clearwater
1, 2025 - September 30, 2028), streamlining the process and providing greater
consistency.
The three-year agreement includes the following key provisions:
Funding of two dedicated police officers, including salaries, benefits, and
associated fuel costs.
Defined community policing strategy targeting drug activity, prostitution,
homelessness, code enforcement, and community engagement.
Benefits of Moving from Annual to Three-Year Agreement:
Consistency & Stability: Provides predictable funding and resources for a
sustained community policing presence.
Improved Planning: Supports long-term strategies for crime reduction,
response to homelessness, and community engagement.
Flexibility: Agreement allows amendments if conditions or priorities change
during the three-year term.
APPROPRIATION CODE AND AMOUNT:
Funding for this Interlocal Agreement will be from R2001 Community Policing.
STRATEGIC PRIORITY:
1.4 Foster safe and healthy communities in Clearwater through first class public
safety and emergency response services.
In response to a question, Clearwater Police Major Burnside said the Police
Department forecasted a year ago the policing needs based on upcoming
projects, which warranted an additional Downton Community Policing Team
with seven officers and one supervisor. He said there are now two
dedicated teams for the Downtown area.
Trustee Allbritton moved to approve a three-year Interlocal
Agreement between the Clearwater Community Redevelopment
Agency and the City of Clearwater to provide CRA increment
funding to underwrite the cost of additional Community Policing
services in the Downtown CRA boundaries and authorize the
appropriate officials to execute the same. The motion was duly
seconded and carried unanimously.
4.2 Approval of a three-year Interlocal Agreement between the City of Clearwater and the
Clearwater Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) to provide staffing and
administrative services and authorize appropriate officials to execute same.
Since 2016, the City has provided the CRA department staff with salaries and
Community Redevelopment Agency Meeting Minutes September 15, 2025
Page 4
City of Clearwater
benefits reimbursed by the CRA through Tax Increment Financing (TIF) funds.
Section 163.387, Florida Statutes, permits the use of TIF funds for staff and
other services in support of CRA redevelopment activities.
The Agreement establishes the roles and responsibilities of both parties,
including:
o CRA Responsibilities: Provide annual TIF funding to cover salaries,
benefits, and internal service allocations, subject to CRA budget
approval.
o City Responsibilities: Provide staffing, IT, legal, clerk, and
administrative support services, as well as office space for the CRA.
This Agreement transitions from an annual term to a three-year term (FY
2025/26 - FY 2027/28), providing greater continuity in staffing and operations
while maintaining annual budget approval and oversight.
APPROPRIATION CODE AND AMOUNT:
Funding will be provided annually through CRA-approved budgets utilizing TIF
revenues.
STRATEGIC PRIORITY:
1.3 Adopt responsive levels of service for public facilities and amenities, and
identify resources required to sustain that level of service.
5.2 Generate organizational success through collaborative engagement and
inclusive decision-making to create shared value outcomes.
Trustee Mannino moved to approval of a three-year Interlocal
Agreement between the City of Clearwater and the Clearwater
Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) to provide staffing and
administrative services and authorize appropriate officials to
execute same. The motion was duly seconded and carried
unanimously.
4.3 Approve funding, in an amount not to exceed $15,000, for the purchase and
implementation of the Downtown CRA Officers E-Bike Program in partnership with the
City of Clearwater Police Department and authorize appropriate officials to execute the
same.
The Clearwater Police Department (CPD) is seeking approval to integrate
electric bicycles (e-bikes) into the Downtown Community Policing Team. This
initiative aligns with the City of Clearwater’s Strategic Plan and the Downtown
Clearwater CRA Plan by enhancing public safety, increasing officer
accessibility, and strengthening community engagement in the downtown area.
E-bikes will provide officers with improved mobility in pedestrian-heavy areas,
faster response times, and increased approachability to the public while
promoting eco-friendly transportation alternatives.
Community Redevelopment Agency Meeting Minutes September 15, 2025
Page 5
City of Clearwater
Program Outline:
The CPD Downtown Community Policing E-Bike Program will:
Deploy e-bikes for CPD officer patrols within the Downtown CRA
boundaries, including areas inaccessible by vehicles (400/500 blocks of
Cleveland Street).
Provide increased officer visibility and direct community engagement.
Enhance mobility for traffic enforcement and public safety education.
Conduct e-bike safety demonstrations for the public and riders.
Support law enforcement investigations, particularly in traffic-related cases
where e-bikes are involved.
Total Funding Request: $15,000
E-bikes and accessories (helmets, safety equipment)
Officer certification and training
Maintenance and inspections
Contingency for repairs and adjustments
Goals and Objectives:
Enhance Public Safety
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs):
• Increase officer response time in congested areas.
• Reduce number of unsafe rider-related complaints in downtown blocks.
Strengthen Community Engagement
KPIs:
• Deploy officers on e-bikes during downtown events.
• Conduct a minimum of 2 public safety demonstrations annually.
• Collect feedback from merchants and residents on officer visibility and
approachability.
Community Input:
Supportive Feedback: East Gateway stakeholders expressed unanimous
support for increased visibility and approachability of e-bike patrols.
Concerns Noted: Businesses including Chiang Mai, P.J.’s Auto World, and
Senor Subs expressed concerns about unsafe e-bike rider behavior on
Cleveland Street, reinforcing the importance of CPD’s dual role in both
education and enforcement.
Recommendation:
Staff recommends approval of funding in the amount of $15,000 for the City of
Clearwater Police Department Downtown Community Policing E-Bike
Deployment Program. This initiative will improve CPD officers accessibility,
Community Redevelopment Agency Meeting Minutes September 15, 2025
Page 6
City of Clearwater
enhance safety and visibility, strengthen community engagement, and promote
sustainability within Downtown Clearwater CRA Area
APPROPRIATION CODE AND AMOUNT:
Funding for this program is available in R2001 Community Policing.
STRATEGIC PRIORITY:
1.4 Foster safe and healthy communities in Clearwater through first-class
public safety and emergency response services.
1.5 Embrace a culture of innovation that drives continuous improvement and
successfully serves all our customers.
Clearwater Police Sgt. Richmond provided a PowerPoint presentation.
In response to questions, Sgt. Richmond said the two officers assigned to
the CRA will be assigned a bike. The third bike allows for a spare. The
package being purchased includes the police equipment needed on the
bikes.
Trustee Cotton moved to approve funding, in an amount not to
exceed $15,000, for the purchase and implementation of the
Downtown CRA Officers E-Bike Program in partnership with the
City of Clearwater Police Department and authorize appropriate
officials to execute the same. The motion was duly seconded and
carried unanimously.
4.4 Approve the Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Downtown Clearwater Community Redevelopment
Area Budget and adopt Resolution 25-02.
The Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Downtown Community Redevelopment Area
Budget aligns proposed project expenditures to facilitate future redevelopment
of downtown through the implementation of the Downtown Plan.
The major highlights of the FY 2025-2026 proposed preliminary budget are:
Tax Increment Revenue is $6,505,676 which is an increase of $419,408 over
the Amended 2024-2025 revenue, reflecting an increase in taxable value of both
the original CRA area and the expanded (Downtown Gateway) CRA area.
DTCRA Funds are divided between Operating Expenditures and Project Funds.
Operating Expenditures
Decrease in Professional Services
Decrease in Contractual Services
Community Redevelopment Agency Meeting Minutes September 15, 2025
Page 7
City of Clearwater
Decrease in Advertising
Increase in Equipment Rental
Increase in Memberships and Subscriptions
Increase in Training and Reference
Operating Expenditures have decreased from FY 24/25. This decrease will still
allow for adequate training and professional services for this fiscal year.
Operating Expenditures also includes the payment of $397,975 to the
Downtown Development Board (DDB).
Project Funds
Transfers Out designated the funding this fiscal year that will be allocated to
various Project Funds. The costs for Interlocal Agreements with the City and the
Clearwater Police Department are found in the General Fund and Community
Policing lines for a total of $1,362,289. The Interlocal Agreement between the
City and CRA is for salaries, benefits, and internals services, as outlined in the
interlocal agreement. These costs have been split between the Downtown
CRA and North Greenwood.
The remaining City TIF revenue has been allocated to Community Engagement
($250,000); Economic Development ($1,000,000); Transportation ($500,000);
Housing ($599,246).
County TIF Funds, $2,878,256 for this fiscal year, are restricted and have been
allocated to Economic Development ($678,256); Transportation ($200,000);
Housing ($2,000,000).
STRATEGIC PRIORITY:
1.3 Adopt responsive levels of service for public facilities and amenities, and
identify resources required to sustain that level of service.
Resolution 25-02 was presented and read by title only.
Trustee Teixeira moved to approve the Fiscal Year 2025-2026
Downtown Clearwater Community Redevelopment Area Budget
and adopt Resolution 25-02. The motion was duly seconded and
upon roll call, the vote was:
Ayes: 5 - Chair Rector, Trustee Cotton, Trustee Mannino, Trustee Allbritton and
Trustee Teixeira
4.5 Approve Third Quarter budget amendments for the Downtown Clearwater Community
Redevelopment Area and adopt Resolution 25-01.
Community Redevelopment Agency Meeting Minutes September 15, 2025
Page 8
City of Clearwater
The Downtown CRA Operating and Capital budgets have been reviewed
through the third quarter of FY 2024-25. Updates include adjustments to
revenues, transfers, and expenditures to reflect actual and project needs. Key
adjustments include:
Downtown Operating
Adjust the budget to reflect the actual expenditures to date.
Downtown CRA Capital Projects
C2105 Mercado
An increase of $15,000 for Mercado Public Art. $10,000 from Arts and
Culture and $5,000 from city increment transferred from the close of
the City’s Downtown Intermodal Project
R2003 Economic Development City-
Decrease of $3,673 in City Increment Revenue
Increase of $167,783 Interest Earning
Increase of $1,063437.39 TIF revenue transferred as part of prior year
end closing
Increase of $41,078 in City Increment revenue from the closure of the
City’s Downtown Intermodal Project
R2005 Infrastructure City-
Increase of $167,858 reimbursement from PSTA received for their
portion of utility undergrounding on Myrtle Avenue.
R2010 Housing County
Decrease of $86,737 in County Increment received.
STRATEGIC PRIORITY:
1.3 Adopt responsive levels of services for public facilities and amenities and
identify resources required to sustain that level of service.
Resolution 25-01 was presented and read by title only.
Trustee Allbritton moved to approve Third Quarter budget
amendments for the Downtown Clearwater Community
Redevelopment Area and adopt Resolution 25-01. The motion was
duly seconded and upon roll call, the vote was:
Ayes: 5 - Chair Rector, Trustee Cotton, Trustee Mannino, Trustee Allbritton and
Trustee Teixeira
4.6 Approve the Fiscal Year 2025-2026 North Greenwood Community Redevelopment Area
Budget, adopt Resolution 25-04, and authorize the appropriate officials to execute same.
The North Greenwood CRA has aligned its proposed operating budget and
Community Redevelopment Agency Meeting Minutes September 15, 2025
Page 9
City of Clearwater
proposed project budget to facilitate future redevelopment as outlined in the
North Greenwood Community Redevelopment Area Plan. Table 12 of the North
Greenwood Community Redevelopment Area Plan outlines the Recommended
TIF Expenditures.
The three-priority areas are:
• Affordable Housing: Create, preserve, or improve income
restricted affordable housing units and prevent displacement.
• Economic Development & Employment: Increase quality
employment opportunities, particularly in the county target industries
• Mobility: Improve transit, walking, and biking options and access to
transit.
Tax Increment Revenue for the North Greenwood CRA is $1,081,779 which is
an increase from the Amended FY 24/25 revenue.
Increment funds are divided between Operating Expenditures and Project
Funds. Operating Expenditures include services, supplies and expenses that
occur during the fiscal year and are primarily used for conducting North
Greenwood CRA’s day-to-day operations. Project funds are established to
assist with creating programing recommended in the North Greenwood
Community Redevelopment Area Plan.
Total operating expenditures $42,300; Salaries for CRA Executive Director and
CRA staff $100,000 which is split with the Downtown CRA; R2407, Housing
County $200,000; R2409 Mobility County $278,753; Economic Development
City $528,726.
STRATEGIC PRIORITY:
1.3 Adopt responsive levels of service for public facilities and amenities, and
identify resources required to sustain that level of service.
Resolution 25-04 was presented and read by title only.
Trustee Mannino moved to approve the Fiscal Year 2025-2026 North
Greenwood Community Redevelopment Area Budget, adopt
Resolution 25-04, and authorize the appropriate officials to execute
same. The motion was duly seconded and upon roll call, the vote
was:
Ayes: 5 - Chair Rector, Trustee Cotton, Trustee Mannino, Trustee Allbritton and
Trustee Teixeira
Community Redevelopment Agency Meeting Minutes September 15, 2025
Page 10
City of Clearwater
4.7 Approve the Third Quarter Budget Amendments to the Fiscal Year 2024-2025 North
Greenwood Community Redevelopment Agency Budget and adopt Resolution 25-03.
Clearwater Community Redevelopment Agency is recommending the following
Third Quarter Budget Amendments to the FY 2024-2025 North Greenwood CRA
Budget:
North Greenwood CRA Operating
• Adjust the budget to reflect the actual expenditures to date.
North Greenwood CRA Capital Projects
R2401 Residential Improvement Program increase $26,410.89 prior year
R2402 Business Improvement Program increase $58,103.95
R2403 Carlton Ave Rehab increase $26,410.89
R2404 Public Infrastructure increase $36,975.24
R2405 Public Art & Culture increase $10,564.35
R2408 Mobility City $67,603
R2409 Mobility County decrease $12,936 - decrease in County increment
received
R2502 Economic Development City increase $112,200.46 in increment
revenue transfer as part of the prior year end closing.
STRATEGIC PRIORITY:
1.3 Adopt responsive levels of service for public facilities and amenities, and
identify resources required to sustain that level of service.
Resolution 25-03 was presented and read by title only.
Trustee Cotton moved to approve the Third Quarter Budget
Amendments to the Fiscal Year 2024-2025 North Greenwood
Community Redevelopment Agency Budget and adopt Resolution
25-03. The motion was duly seconded and upon roll call, the vote
was:
Ayes: 5 - Chair Rector, Trustee Cotton, Trustee Mannino, Trustee Allbritton and
Trustee Teixeira
4.8 Downtown Revitalization
A monthly opportunity for CRA Trustees to exchange ideas and address
downtown related topic and priorities.
STRATEGIC PRIORITY:
2.1 Strengthen public-private initiatives that attract, develop, and retain
diversified business sectors.
2.3 Promote Clearwater as a premier destination for entertainment, cultural
Community Redevelopment Agency Meeting Minutes September 15, 2025
Page 11
City of Clearwater
experiences, tourism, and national sporting events.
5. Old Business Items – None. 6. Director's Report
6.1 CRA September Director’s Report CRA Executive Director Jesus Niño provided a PowerPoint presentation.
7. Adjourn
The meeting adjourned at 1:24 p.m.
Chair
Community Redevelopment Agency
Attest
City Clerk
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Cover Memo
City of Clearwater Main Library - Council
Chambers
100 N. Osceola Avenue
Clearwater, FL 33755
File Number: ID#25-1154
Agenda Date: 11/17/2025 Status: PassedVersion: 1
File Type: Action ItemIn Control: Community Redevelopment Agency
Agenda Number: 4.1
SUBJECT/RECOMMENDATION:
Approve, in an amount not to exceed $122,438.25, for the Downtown Commercial Grant to 45 Sports
Bar and Lounge, LLC, located at 1409 Cleveland Street, Clearwater, FL 33756, and authorize the
appropriate officials to execute the same.
SUMMARY:
45 Sports Bar and Lounge, LLC, a locally owned business operating since 2023, is requesting Downtown
Commercial Grant funding to expand and enhance their existing location. Proposed improvements
include extending the bar area, repairing floors, completing kitchen renovations, upgrading lighting and
duct work, interior painting, replacing storefront glass windows, and renovating restrooms. The total
project cost is $222,615.00, with the applicant providing a 45% match of $100,176.75. Proof of matching
funds has been submitted to CRA staff. The applicant was previously awarded a Business Renovation
Grant in 2023 for $19,450.00
The proposed improvements will enhance the functionality, provide additional capacity, and improve the
overall appeal of the property along Cleveland Street.
The Downtown Commercial Grant Program is designed to help Downtown Clearwater thrive as the
urban core and heart of the City, serving as the center of business and government, and as an attractive
place to live, work, shop, and play (Ch. 3, Vision, pg. 44). It also aligns with the City’s Strategic Objective
to strengthen public-private initiatives that attract, develop, and retain diversified business sectors.
Total Project Cost: $222,615.00
·CRA Grant (not to exceed): $122,438.25
·Applicant Match: $100,176.75 (45% of total project cost, verified by staff)
The applicant agrees that all improvements funded through this Program will be maintained in
accordance with City policies, codes, and any other applicable requirements identified by the City, CRA,
or other regulatory agencies for a period of not less than three (3) years, unless otherwise approved in
writing by the CRA Director. The applicant shall also comply with all applicable City rules and
regulations, including the City of Clearwater Ethics Code. Each applicant acknowledges and understands
that the Ethics Code prohibits City employees from receiving any direct or indirect benefit from any
contract or obligation entered into with the City.
Applicants must obtain a Certificate of Occupancy or Certificate of Completion within three hundred
sixty-five (365) calendar days from the date of the executed grant agreement, unless otherwise approved
in writing by the CRA Director.
CRA staff recommends approval as the grant will support business expansion, enhance the downtown
environment, and strengthen the economic vitality of Cleveland Street.
APPROPRIATION CODE AND AMOUNT:
Funds for this new grant are available in R2003- Economic Development-City in an amount not to
exceed $122,438.25
STRATEGIC PRIORITY:
2.1 Strengthen public-private initiatives that attract, develop, and retain diversified business sectors.
Page 1 City of Clearwater Printed on 2/27/2026
Page 1 of 11
DOWNTOWN COMMERCIAL GRANT AGREEMENT
DTC-C-25-21
This Downtown Commercial Grant Agreement (this "Agreement") is made as of,
______________, by and between the COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY OF
THE CITY OF CLEARWATER, FLORIDA, a public body corporate and politic of the State
of Florida created pursuant to Part III, Chapter 163, Florida Statutes (the "Agency"), and 45
Sports Bar and Lounge, LLC, a Florida Limited Liability Company (the “Applicant”)
(collectively the Agency and Applicant are the “Parties”).
W I T N E S S E T H:
WHEREAS, the Agency was created to implement the community redevelopment
activities in the Florida Community Redevelopment Act of 1969 (the “Act”) codified at
Chapter 163, Part III, Florida Statutes; and
WHEREAS, § 163.387(6)(c)4, Florida Statutes provides that the budget of a
community redevelopment agency may provide for clearance and preparation of any
redevelopment area for redevelopment; and
WHEREAS, § 163.387(6)(c)9, Florida Statutes provides that the budget of a
community redevelopment agency may provide for payment undertakings described in a
redevelopment plan and for expenses that are necessary to exercise the powers granted to
a community redevelopment agency under § 163.370, Florida Statutes; and
WHEREAS, § 163.370(2)(a), Florida Statutes provides that one such power is the
ability to make and execute contracts and other instruments necessary or convenient to the
exercise of a community redevelopment agency’s exercise of its power under the Act; and
WHEREAS, another such power is found in § 163.370(2)(c), Florida Statutes which
provides that a community redevelopment agency may undertake and carry out community
redevelopment and related activities within the community redevelopment area; and
WHEREAS, Objective 1E of the Clearwater Community Redevelopment Area Plan
(the “Plan”) provides that Cleveland Street is Downtown Clearwater’s (the “Downtown’s”)
main street and valued for its historic character and pedestrian scale; and
WHEREAS, Objective 1D of the Plan provides that the Agency will encourage a
variety of office-intensive businesses, including finance and insurance, IT/software,
professional services and medical to relocate and expand in Downtown to provide a stable
employment center; and
WHEREAS, Objective 3G of the Plan provides that the Agency will create and
activate space to work as a signature destination, including civic plazas, markets and retail
gathering places that promote economic growth for Downtown; and
WHEREAS, Objective 4A of the Plan provides that the Agency will encourage
Page 2 of 11
redevelopment that contains a variety of building forms and style.
WHEREAS, Objective 4D of the Plan provides that the Agency will encourage
renovation, restoration, and reuse of existing historic structures to maintain the character of
the Downtown’s neighborhood; and
WHEREAS, on August 12, 2024, the Agency’s Board of Trustees approved the
Downtown Commercial Grant Program (the “Program”) with the goals of reducing blight and
activate, commercial spaces with uses that aspire to generate creative and innovative
gathering spaces, walkable pedestrian thoroughfares, and increased overall activity. This
Program can also help a business or developer “close the gap” in their financial ability to
meet the goals of the Agency’s Area Plan; and
WHEREAS, the Agency has approved ($122,438.25) in financial assistant under the
Program to provide improvement assistance to the property located at 1409 Cleveland
Street, Clearwater, FL 33756 (the “Property”). The grant is intended to provide extending
the bar area, repairing floors, completing kitchen renovations, upgrading lighting and duct
work, interior painting, replacing storefront glass windows, and renovating restrooms (the
“Project”) as further detailed in the Applicant’s grant application and Project description; and
WHEREAS, the Plan also states that the City of Clearwater (“the City”) shall
encourage a vibrant and active public realm, recreation and entertainment opportunities and
support the community and neighborhoods; and
WHEREAS, the Applicant intends to make improvements to the Property in the
Downtown area for commercial use; and
WHEREAS, the Agency finds that providing financial assistance for redevelopment
of blighted property is a permissible expenditure under the Agency’s approved budget and
the Act; and
WHEREAS, the Agency finds that the Property currently sits in a blighted state of
existence; and
WHEREAS, the Agency finds that the Project comports with and furthers the goals,
objectives, and policies of the Plan; and
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual promises and covenants
contained herein, the parties hereby agree as follows:
I. GENERAL
1. Recitals. The foregoing recitals are true and correct and are incorporated in and
form a part of this Agreement.
2. Intent; Purpose of Agreement. The purpose of this Agreement is to further the
implementation of the Plan by providing grants for redevelopment, rehabilitation, and
Page 3 of 11
enhance area commercial structures exhibiting deterioration and decline in substantial
compliance with the Application, all to incentivize improvements to the area, and improve
the aesthetic and useful enjoyment of the Downtown through the eradication of conditions
of blight, all in accordance with and in furtherance of the Plan and as authorized by and
in accordance with the Act.
II. APPLICANT WARRANTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
1. Development of the Project. The Applicant shall complete the Project in
substantial compliance with the Program and the Application. The Applicant must receive
a “Certificate of Occupancy or Certificate of Completion” within three hundred sixty-five
(365) calendar days from the date of the executed grant agreement. After the said three
hundred sixty-five (365) days, the grant will expire. An extension for the grant funds may
be granted by the Director for a good cause. It is the responsibility of the Applicant to
request an extension of the grant approval before the expiration date.
2. Applicant’s Project Contribution. As a condition of receiving reimbursement grant
funding from the Agency, the Applicant shall provide required documentation for
disbursement as stated in the grant program guidelines under Section 7. The Applicant
shall contribute (one hundred thousand one hundred seventy-six dollars and 75/100
cents) ($100,176.75) in monetary contribution toward the Project. Evidence of
expenditure of Applicant’s contribution towards the Project shall be submitted to the
Agency’s satisfaction before disbursement of the Agency’s grant funding.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Director may allow initial project deposits or other
necessary draws, up to fifty percent (50%) of the grant amount, to be paid directly to a
City/CRA approved licensed contractor/vendor.
3. Warranties of the Applicant. The Applicant warrants that all the following
qualifications have been met:
a. The Applicant is the property owner or commercial/business tenant.
b. The business must be an allowable use on the subject property in accordance with
the City’s Land and Building Development Regulations/Codes.
c. Must be current in all property taxes and City business fees
d. Must be in good standing with the city (no outstanding code enforcement or building
code violations). This requirement may be waived by the Director if the work
proposed under this application will remediate all code violations.
e. Property must be free of code enforcement liens or other City liens.
f. The business or new proposed business on the Property must be an independently
owned and operated local business.
g. If the business is independently owned and operated franchise, other franchise
locations associated with the same brand must ONLY be located within the municipal
boundary of the City.
i. The proposed business on the property must make independent decisions
regarding its name, signage, brand, appearance, purchasing practices, hiring,
and distribution, and must be solely responsible for paying its own mortgage,
Page 4 of 11
rent, marketing, and other business expenses without assistance from a
corporate headquarters outside of the City limits.
h. *The owner of the Property is the Applicant, unless the owner authorizes a business
owner occupying the property by a valid lease to undertake improvements on the
property. Owner means a holder of any legal or equitable estate in the premises,
whether alone or jointly with others and whether in possession or not shall include all
individuals, associations, partnerships, corporations, limited liability companies and
others who have interest in a structure and any who are in possession or control
thereof as agent of the owner, as executor, administrator, trustee, or guardian of the
estate of the owner. For the purposes of this application, the total Agency grant value
that an owner has received over such period shall be the combined value, in the
twelve (12) month period immediately preceding the submission of an application for
this program, of: (1) the amount of Agency grant funds that the applicant has
received; (2) the amount of Agency grant funds that any holder of legal title in the
subject property other than the applicant has received; and (3) if a business entity
holds legal title in the subject property, the total amount of Agency grant funds
received by any directors, members, partners, shareholders, any others with an
ownership interest in such entity, and any others able to exert managerial control
over or direct the affairs of said entity.
III. AGENCY RESPONSIBILITIES
1. Grant Funding. The Agency shall reimburse the Applicant for the Project’s eligible
costs up to one hundred twenty-two thousand four hundred thirty-eight dollars and 25/100
cents ($122,438.25) (“Grant Funds”) as provided under the Program, payable within (30)
days after receipt of a fully completed reimbursement request after verification by the
Agency that the Project has been completed and evidence that the Applicant has actually
incurred these Project costs to the satisfaction of the Director. The Director may allow
earlier draw requests of Grant Funds to approved licensed contractors in accordance with
the Program where applicable.
The Director retains sole discretion to determine whether the Project meets the
requirements of this Agreement or the Program and Application. If the Director determines
that the Project does not meet said requirements, then the Parties agree that the
Director’s decision is final, the Agency shall not owe any monies to the Applicant for the
requested reimbursement, and the Applicant shall have no recourse against the Agency.
IV. APPLICANT DEFAULT
1. Failure to Complete Project Work. If the Applicant fails to receive a “Certificate of
Occupancy or Certificate of Completion” within three hundred sixty five (365) calendar
days form the date of the executed grant agreement in substantial compliance with the
Program and the Application then the Parties agree that the Applicant shall be in default
under this Agreement, this Agreement shall immediately become null and void, and the
Page 5 of 11
Agency will have no further responsibility to the Applicant, including but not limited to the
responsibility to tender the reimbursement funds to the Applicant. An extension for the
grant funds may be granted by the Director for good cause if the Applicant submits a
written request for such an extension before the expiration of the three hundred sixty-five
(365) day period.
2. Other Events of Default. In addition to the foregoing events of default, the
occurrence of any one or more of the following events after the Effective Date shall also
constitute an event of default by the Applicant:
A. The Applicant shall make a general assignment for the benefit of its creditors,
or shall admit in writing its inability to pay its debts as they become due or shall
file a petition in bankruptcy, or shall be adjudicated a bankrupt or insolvent, or
shall file a petition seeking any reorganization, arrangement, composition,
readjustment, liquidation, dissolution or similar relief under any present or
future statute, law or regulation or shall file an answer admitting, or shall fail
reasonably to contest, the material allegations of a petition filed against it in any
such proceeding, or shall seek or consent to or acquiesce in the appointment
of any trustee, receiver or liquidator of the Applicant or any material part of
such entity's properties; or
B. Within sixty (60) days after the commencement of any proceeding by or against
the Applicant seeking any reorganization, arrangement, composition,
readjustment, liquidation, dissolution or similar relief under any present or
future statute, law or regulation, such proceeding shall not have been
dismissed or otherwise terminated, or if, within sixty (60) days after the
appointment without the consent or acquiescence of the Applicant of any
trustee, receiver or liquidator of any of such entities or of any material part of
any of such entity's properties, such appointment shall not have been vacated.
C. A breach by the Applicant of any other term, condition, requirement, or warranty
of this Agreement or the Policy.
3. Agency’s Remedy Upon Certain Applicant Default. In the event of default and if
the Applicant has failed to cure the default within the allotted time prescribed under
Section IV(4), then the Parties agree that: a) this Agreement shall be null and void; b) that
the Agency will have no further responsibility to the Applicant , including the responsibility
to tender any remaining reimbursement funds to the Applicant; and c) that if the Agency
has tendered reimbursement funds to the Applicant, the Agency shall be entitled to the
return of all reimbursement funds plus default interest at a rate of ten percent (10%)
starting from the date of default.
4. Notice of Default and Opportunity to Cure. The Agency shall provide written notice
of any default under this Agreement and provide the Applicant thirty (30) days from the
date the notice is sent to cure the default if it is an event listed under Sections IV(2). This
notice will be deemed sent when sent by first class mail to the Applicant’s notice address
or when delivered to the Applicant if sent by a different means.
Page 6 of 11
V. MISCELLANEOUS
1. Notices. All notices, demands, requests for approvals or other communications given
by either party to another shall be in writing, and shall be sent to the property for each
party indicated below and addressed as follows:
To the Applicant: To the Agency:
Sports Bar and Lounge, LLC Community Redevelopment Agency of
1409 Cleveland Street, the City of Clearwater
Clearwater, FL 33756 P.O. Box 4748
Attention: Executive Director
with copies to:
City of Clearwater
P.O. Box 4748
Clearwater, Florida 33758
Attention: Clearwater City Attorney’s Office
2. Unavoidable Delay. Any delay in performance of or inability to perform any
obligation under this Agreement (other than an obligation to pay money) due to any event
or condition described in this Section as an event of "Unavoidable Delay" shall be excused
in the manner provided in this Section.
“Unavoidable Delay” means any of the following events or conditions or any
combination thereof: acts of God, acts of the public enemy, riot, insurrection, war,
pestilence, archaeological excavations required by law, unavailability of materials after
timely ordering of same, building moratoria, epidemics, quarantine restrictions, freight
embargoes, fire, lightning, hurricanes, earthquakes, tornadoes, floods, extremely
abnormal and excessively inclement weather (as indicated by the records of the local
weather bureau for a five year period preceding the Effective Date), strikes or labor
disturbances, delays due to proceedings under Chapters 73 and 74, Florida Statutes,
restoration in connection with any of the foregoing or any other cause beyond the
reasonable control of the party performing the obligation in question, including, without
limitation, such causes as may arise from the act of the other party to this Agreement, or
acts of any governmental authority (except that acts of the Agency shall not constitute an
Unavoidable Delay with respect to performance by the Agency).
An application by any party hereto for an extension of time pursuant to this Section
must be in writing, must set forth in detail the reasons and causes of delay, and must be
filed with the other party to this Agreement within thirty (30) days following the occurrence
of the event or condition causing the Unavoidable Delay or thirty (30) days following the
party becoming aware (or with the exercise of reasonable diligence should have become
aware) of such occurrence.
Page 7 of 11
The party shall be entitled to an extension of time for an Unavoidable Delay only
for the number of days of delay due solely to the occurrence of the event or condition
causing such Unavoidable Delay and only to the extent that any such occurrence actually
delays that party from proceeding with its rights, duties and obligations under this
Agreement affected by such occurrence. In the event the party is the Applicant then the
Director is authorized to grant an extension of time for an Unavoidable Delay for a period
of up to six (6) months. Any further requests for extensions of time from the Applicant
must be agreed to and approved by the Agency’s trustees.
3. Indemnification. The Applicant agrees to assume all risks of inherent in this
Agreement and all liability therefore, and shall defend, indemnify, and hold harmless the
Agency and the City of a Clearwater, a municipal corporation (“the City”), and the
Agency’s and the City’s officers, agents, and employees from and against any and all
claims of loss, liability and damages of whatever nature, to persons and property,
including, without limiting the generality of the foregoing, death of any person and loss of
the use of any property, except claims arising from the negligence of the Agency, the City,
or the Agency's or the City’s agents or employees. This includes, but is not limited to,
matters arising out of or claimed to have been caused by or in any manner related to the
Applicant’s activities or those of any approved or unapproved invitee, contractor,
subcontractor, or other person approved, authorized, or permitted by the Applicant
whether or not based on negligence. Nothing herein shall be construed as consent by
the Agency or the City to be sued by third parties, or as a waiver or modification of the
provisions or limits of Section 768.28, Florida Statutes, or the Doctrine of Sovereign
Immunity.
4. Assignability; Complete Agreement. This Agreement is non-assignable by either
party and constitutes the entire Agreement between the Applicant and the Agency and all
prior or contemporaneous oral and written agreements or representations of any nature
with reference to the subject of the agreement are canceled and superseded by the
provisions of this agreement.
5. Applicable Law and Construction. The laws of the State of Florida shall govern the
validity, performance, and enforcement of this Agreement. This Agreement has been
negotiated by the Agency and the Applicant, and the Agreement, including, without
limitation, any exhibits, shall not be deemed to have been prepared by the Agency or the
Applicant, but by all equally.
6. Severability. Should any section or part of any section of this Agreement be
rendered void, invalid, or unenforceable by any court of law, for any reason, such a
determination shall not render void, invalid, or unenforceable any other section or any
part of any section in this Agreement.
7. Amendments. This Agreement cannot be changed or revised except by written
amendment signed by the Parties hereto.
Page 8 of 11
8. Jurisdiction and Venue. For purposes of any suit, action or other proceeding
arising out of or relating to this Agreement, the parties hereto do acknowledge, consent,
and agree that venue thereof is Pinellas County, Florida.
Each party to this Agreement hereby submits to the jurisdiction of the State of
Florida, Pinellas County and the courts thereof and to the jurisdiction of the United States
District Court for the Middle District of Florida, for the purposes of any suit, action or other
proceeding arising out of or relating to this Agreement and hereby agrees not to assert
by way of a motion as a defense or otherwise that such action is brought in an
inconvenient forum or that the venue of such action is improper or that the subject matter
thereof may not be enforced in or by such courts.
If, at any time during the term of this Agreement, the Applicant is not a resident of
the State of Florida or has no office, employee, agency, registered agent or general
partner thereof available for service of process as a resident of the State of Florida, or if
any permitted assignee thereof shall be a foreign corporation, partnership or other entity
or shall have no officer, employee, agent, or general partner available for service of
process in the State of Florida, the Applicant hereby designates the Secretary of State,
State of Florida, its agent for the service of process in any court action between it and the
Agency arising out of or relating to this Agreement and such service shall be made as
provided by the laws of the State of Florida for service upon a nonresident; provided,
however, that at the time of service on the Florida Secretary of State, a copy of such
service shall be delivered to the Applicant at the address for notices as provided in Section
V(1).
9. Termination. If not earlier terminated as provided in this Agreement, the
term of this Agreement shall expire, and this Agreement shall no longer be of any force
and effect on two years of the anniversary Effective Date.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Parties have caused this Agreement to be executed on the
date and year first above written.
Page 9 of 11
(AGENCY SIGNATURE PAGE)
COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY OF
THE CITY OF CLEARWATER, FLORIDA, a public
body corporate and politic of the State of Florida.
By: __________________________
Bruce Rector/Chairman
Date: ___________________________
Approved as to form: Attest:
________________________ ______________________________
Matthew J. Mytych, Esq. Rosemarie Call
CRA Attorney City Clerk
Date: ____________________ Date: __________________________
Page 10 of 11
(APPLICANT SIGNATURE PAGE)
(45 Sports Bar Lounge, LLC), a (Limited
Liability Company).
By: __________________________
Print name: ____________________
Title: _________________________
Date: _________________________
STATE OF FLORIDA )
COUNTY OF PINELLAS )
The foregoing instrument was acknowledged before me by means physical presence or
online notarization, this ___ day of _______________, 2025 by _________________,
as _______________ of ____________________ who is/are personally known to me or
who has/have produced a driver’s license as identification.
_________________________________
Notary Public, State of Florida
(NOTARIAL SEAL) Name of Notary: ___________________
My Commission Expires: ____________
My Commission No.: _______________
Page 11 of 11
Exhibit “A”
NO COERCION FOR LABOR OR SERVICES ATTESTATION
Pursuant to Section 787.06(13), F.S., this form must be completed by an officer or
representative of a nongovernmental entity when a contract is executed, renewed, or
extended between the nongovernmental entity and a governmental entity.
____________________ does not use coercion for labor or services as defined in Section
787.06, F.S.
Under penalty of perjury, I declare that I have read the foregoing statement and that the
facts stated in it are true and correct.
Signature: ___________________________
Printed Name: ________________________
Title: ________________________________
Date: ________________________________
Cover Memo
City of Clearwater Main Library - Council
Chambers
100 N. Osceola Avenue
Clearwater, FL 33755
File Number: ID#25-1131
Agenda Date: 11/17/2025 Status: FiledVersion: 1
File Type: Action ItemIn Control: Community Redevelopment Agency
Agenda Number: 4.2
SUBJECT/RECOMMENDATION:
Downtown Revitalization.
SUMMARY:
A monthly opportunity for CRA Trustees to exchange ideas and address downtown related topics and
priorities.
STRATEGIC PRIORITY:
Page 1 City of Clearwater Printed on 2/27/2026
Cover Memo
City of Clearwater Main Library - Council
Chambers
100 N. Osceola Avenue
Clearwater, FL 33755
File Number: ID#25-1175
Agenda Date: 11/17/2025 Status: FiledVersion: 1
File Type: Action ItemIn Control: Community Redevelopment Agency
Agenda Number: 5.1
SUBJECT/RECOMMENDATION:
CRA October Director’s Report
SUMMARY:
Page 1 City of Clearwater Printed on 2/27/2026
|1DOWNTOWN CLEARWATER COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AREA
ZDirectors Report
October 2025
|2CLEARWATER COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY
Table of Contents
•CRA Grant Programs
•Downtown CRA
•North Greenwood CRA
•North Ward Elementary
•Property Disposition
|3DOWNTOWN CLEARWATER COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AREA
CRA Grants Status Update YTD
North Greenwood
15
15
11
Downtown
In review, or awaiting
additional documentation
Approved,
Payment issued,
Or in process of being paid
Approved,
and improvements
underway
TOTAL
5
13
7
20
28
18
|4DOWNTOWN CLEARWATER COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AREA
Downtown CRA Updates
|5DOWNTOWN CLEARWATER COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AREA
Clearwater Gardens
1260 Cleveland Street
•Now Open
•Opened to residents in mid-October
•70% Leased
•Full occupancy anticipated by the
end of December 2025
•Leasing available at
clearwatergardensapts.com
|6DOWNTOWN CLEARWATER COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AREA
Cleveland Street
Market Update
1101 Cleveland Street
Businesses
•SLOW.. Or On The Go Café - closed
•Top Nosh - closing
•Tap Haus - closing
•Top Golf - not open
•Machi Boba - unsure
•Sabroso - opening soon
CRA Response & Next Steps
•Meet with the management company
•Meet with business owners
|7DOWNTOWN CLEARWATER COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AREA
Business Spotlight Program
Applications currently under review.
The 2026 featured businesses will be
announced during the December 1st
CRA Trustee Meeting
15 - Businesses applied
9 - Businesses will be selected
|8DOWNTOWN CLEARWATER COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AREA
Downtown Construction Updates
•Osceola Parking Garage at 155 S. Osceola
Avenue,construction starting in November.
•Expected duration of construction is 15 months.
•The Ballad Hotel at 50 N. Osceola Avenue, will break
ground in early December.
•Expected duration of construction is 21 months.
|9DOWNTOWN CLEARWATER COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AREA
Downtown Construction Newsletter
Digital Newsletter
•Distributed twice a month
•1,700 email subscribers
•51% open rate
Print Newsletter
•Updated monthly
|10DOWNTOWN CLEARWATER COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AREA
Next Meeting
Join us online to get the latest updates
impacting downtown.
Date: Tuesday, November 25
Time: 3:00 – 4:00 p.m.
Virtual Meeting:
MyClearwaterCRA.com/Outreach
Date Featured Project Attendance
August 26 Downtown
Construction
Overview
30
September 30 Osceola Avenue
Streetscape
35
October 28 Osceola Avenue
Parking Garage
17
Past Meetings
|11DOWNTOWN CLEARWATER COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AREA
Cleveland Street Activation Updates
Signage
•3 new "Cleveland Street District" identification signs
will be added at:
•Northwest corner of Cleveland at Fort Harrison
•Southeast corner of Cleveland at Fort Harrison
•Northwest corner of Cleveland at Garden
Median Lighting
•Lighting installed
•Colors adjusted seasonally
|12DOWNTOWN CLEARWATER COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AREA
Cleveland Street Activation Updates
Kiosks
New downtown maps have been installed in the kiosks.
Bike Racks
In coordination with Parks & Rec, Public Works, and
Planning 20+ new bike racks will be ordered for the
400-700 blocks of Cleveland Street.
|13DOWNTOWN CLEARWATER COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AREA
Downtown Clearwater CRA Police Statistics 2025
•33 new individuals identified
•5 placed at Safe Harbor
•28 placed at Pinellas Hope
•1 self-transported
•4 transported by CPD
•6 new encampments located
•15 transportation assists
September Shelter
Assistance Contacts:
|14DOWNTOWN CLEARWATER COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AREA
Downtown Clearwater CRA Police Statistics 2025
|15NORTH GREENWOOD COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AREA
North Greenwood CRA Updates
|16NORTH GREENWOOD COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AREA
Shipping Container Village Update
•CULC received its first payment for $36,000 on September 9th.
•They entered into an agreement with Gulf Coast Consulting, Inc.,for
professional civil engineering services: final site plans, design survey,
geotechnical report, and site permits.
•CULC hosted a networking event for prospective business owners and
community members to discuss the project and connect with
community resources on October 20th.
•Prospective businesses enlisted so far include a wine shop, juice bar,
and a holistic health services business.
•CULC is currently consulting with a St Petersburg College professor
and students to update a strategic plan to guide their business selection.
|17NORTH GREENWOOD COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AREA
North Greenwood CAC
•Hannah Menard
•Jason Corbett
Two new members have been appointed to serve the
North Greenwood CRA Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC).
One vacant seat remains.
Next CRA Meeting
Date:Wednesday, Dec. 3rd
Time:5:30 to 6:30 p.m.
Location:
North Greenwood Recreation Center
900 N. Martin Luther King Jr. Ave.(Room 1)
|18CLEARWATER COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY
North Ward Elementary School Update
Staff will be presenting an item to City
Council at its December 1, 2025, work
session,which will include:
•repair estimates for roof patching
and tarping;
•results of independent property
appraisals;
•and a proposed approach for
property marketing and disposal.
Update:
|19NORTH GREENWOOD COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AREA
Property Disposition Updates
|20CLEARWATER COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY
Property Disposition Updates
Tranche 1 – Surplus Properties
•Tentative promotion in December – January
•Parcel list still being finalized
•No responses for non-economic parcels in North
Greenwood CRA. Readvertised 11/5/25. Close 12/5/25.
•1 formal offer received for other citywide parcels;
Sold.
•Staff is following up on 3 additional expressions of interest
– No interest in completing.
Tranche 2 – North Greenwood CRA Parcels
•2 offers received:
-1164 LaSalle Street - Deed executed
-4-parcel site near Curtis Elementary
Tranche 3 – Two Development Sites
•MLK & Washington: a 7-parcel multifamily site to be
released in mid to late November
•Phase I Environmental Study in progress – expected on or
before 11/14/25.
•Appraisals underway for appropriate parcels. Delayed
due to illness of appraiser.
Tranche 4 – Upcoming