08/31/2026 City Council Meeting Minutes August 31, 2026
City of Clearwater
Main Library- Council Chambers
100 N. Osceola Avenue
Clearwater, FL 33755
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e
Meeting Minutes
Monday, August 31, 2026
6:00 PM
Main Library - Council Chambers
City Council
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City of Clearwater
City Council Meeting Minutes August 31, 2026
Roll Call
Present: 5 - Mayor Bruce Rector, Vice Mayor Ryan Cotton, Councilmember David
Allbritton, Councilmember Lina Teixeira and Councilmember Michael
Mannino
Also Present: Jennifer Poirrier— City Manager, Daniel Slaughter—Assistant City
Manager, Al Battle —Assistant City Manager, Owen Kohler— City
Attorney, Rosemarie Call — City Clerk, and Nicole Sprague — Deputy
City Clerk.
To provide continuity for research, items are listed in agenda order although not
necessarily discussed in that order.
1. Call to Order— Mayor Rector
The meeting was called to order at 6:00 p.m.
2. Invocation — Reverend Kyle D. Smith of St. Cecilia Catholic Church
3. Pledge of Allegiance
4. Special recognitions and Presentations (Proclamations, service awards, or other
special recognitions. Presentations by governmental agencies or groups providing
formal updates to Council will be limited to ten minutes.)- Given.
4.1 Forward Pinellas Presentation - Nousheen Rahman, Forward Pinellas
Local Agency Grants Program and update on the latest happenings at Forward
Pinellas to include the potential merger of the tri-county metropolitan planning
organizations (Pasco, Pinellas, Hillsborough).
Ms. Rahman provided a PowerPoint presentation.
4.2 Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month Proclamation, September 2026 - Kerry Kriseman,
Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance
4.3 988 Day Proclamation, September 8, 2026 - Micki Thompson and Sean Schrader with
First Contact
4.4 Florida Redevelopment Week Proclamation, September 14-18, 2026 - Jesus Nino, Anne
Lopez, and Tasha Hadley; CRA Dept.
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City of Clearwater
City Council Meeting Minutes August 31, 2026
5. Approval of Minutes
5.1 Approve the minutes of the August 20, 2026 council meeting as submitted in written
summation by the City Clerk.
Councilmember Allbritton moved to approve the minutes of the
August 20, 2026 council meeting as submitted in written summation
by the City Clerk. The motion was duly seconded and carried
unanimously.
Public Hearings - Not before 6:00 PM
6. Administrative Public Hearings
6.1 Approve the First Amendment to the City of Clearwater's State Housing Initiatives
Partnership (SHIP) Program Local Housing Assistance Plan covering Fiscal Years
2024-2027.
Florida statute 420.9079 requires counties and cities receiving State Housing
Initiatives Partnership (SHIP) Program funds must develop a three-year Local
Housing Assistance Plan (LHAP) outlining strategies for how the funds will be
utilized.
The LHAP covers state fiscal years 2024-2027. The LHAP outlines six
strategies identified to carry out affordable housing activities through the SHIP
funding in the City of Clearwater: 1) New Construction; 2)Acquisition of Existing
Homes with Rehabilitation; 3) Down Payment and Closing Costs Assistance for
Existing Homes without Rehabilitation; 4) Owner-Occupied Rehabilitation; 5)
Multi-Family Housing; and 6) Disaster Mitigation.
The Florida Legislature has passed SB 594, which requires every LHAP to
include a strategy to address Manufactured housing (mobile homes). This First
Amendment to the current LHAP will amend Section II, LHAP Strategies, to do
the following:
• Provide relocation assistance for persons who have been
deprived of affordable housing due to a mobile home park
closure;
• Provide Lot rent assistance to mobile homeowners; and
• Repeal the previous SHIP 20% cap on manufactured housing.
All other terms and conditions will remain the same as adopted. Per Florida law,
the Amendment requires approval by the City Council.
APPROPRIATION CODE AND AMOUNT: N/A
USE OF RESERVE FUNDS: N/A
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City of Clearwater
City Council Meeting Minutes August 31, 2026
STRATEGIC PRIORITY: Objective 2.4 - Supports equitable housing programs
that promote household stability and reduces the incidence of homelessness
within Clearwater.
Councilmember Mannino moved to approve the First Amendment to
the City of Clearwater's State Housing Initiatives Partnership (SHIP)
Program Local Housing Assistance Plan covering Fiscal Years
2024-2027. The motion was duly seconded and carried unanimously.
6.2 Authorize purchase orders to multiple vendors for the purchase of computer parts,
product maintenance, servers, and network equipment in the cumulative not-to-exceed
amount of$3,500,000.00, for term October 1, 2026 through September 30, 2027, or
through expiration of the respective contract if earlier, pursuant to Clearwater Code of
Ordinances Section 2.563 (1)(c), piggyback, and Section 2.561(5), small purchases, and
authorize the appropriate officials to execute same.
The Information Technology Department is requesting authorization to procure
computer and network supplies from various vendors to include parts, cabling,
servers, computers, power supplies, licensing, and wireless and security
technology for the maintenance and upgrade of the city's computer network and
equipment.
Purchases will be obtained through various piggyback contracts, including
optional extensions as listed and approved by sourcing agencies.
Specific products and quantities will be determined based on the City's needs
throughout the contract term. When multiple awarded vendors offer the same or
comparable items, the department will compare pricing among the applicable
awarded vendors to ensure the City receives the best available pricing. Vendor
selection will be based on the City's specific needs, product availability, and
pricing.
The list of vendors with their piggyback contracts is as follows:
Amazon:
• Online Marketplace State of Utah LS4679. Valid through 5/5/2030.
S tt ://www.omniap rtri r gpM/ u li r l azon-hu in l lic-
ctor>................................................ .................. ...............................
• Online Marketplace for the Purchase of Products and Services: Prince
William County Public Schools, VA R-TC-17006. Valid through 1/18/
2028.
<https://www.omniapartners.com/suppliers/amazon-business/public-
sector>
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City of Clearwater
City Council Meeting Minutes August 31. 2D2G
AV -SPL:
*
Omnia Partners Audio Visual Solutions & Services R25O4O1 Region
ESC - TX Valid through 9/30/28 with option to renew for two (2)
additional one-year periods through September 3O. 2O3O.
CDW-GovernmentLLC:
* OMNIA Cobb 2O24O50-01 - GC)V - Contract: 2424O50-01. Valid
through 7/1/2O28with the option torenew for three (3) additional
two-year periods through July 1' 2O34'
Contract Documents
* GVAR 4323OOOO-23-NAGPC)-ACG. Valid through 4/24/2O27. Software
Value Added Reneiier/SVAR\/Alternate Contract Source/State
Contracts and Agreements/State Purchasing/Business
Operations - Florida Department nfManagement Services
<httpn://vvvvvv.dnnn.nnyfinrid a.onnn/busin enn_nperatinnn/ntate_puroha
nino/ntate_onntraotn_and_agreennentn/aiternate_onntraot_nnuroe/n
nftvvare_value_added_reneiier_nvar>
* Gouroavva|| 121923- DWG Tech Catalog. Valid through 2/27/2O28with
the option torenew for three (3) additional one-year periods through
February 27. 2O31. CDW-G: Contract 121S23-C[}VV | Snuroevveii
<httpn://vvvvvv.nnuroevveii-nnn.gnv/onnperative-purohanino/121923
-CDVV>
Canmhsofl' Inc:
* Omnia Software Solutions and Services Region 4ESC - TXContract
Number: R24O3O3. Valid through 12/31/2O27with the option b» renew for
two (2) additional one-year periods through 12/31/2029. Cara
QMNIA Partners I Contract Documents
* Omnia Contract 23-00S2-01Technology Products, Solutions and
Related Services Cobb County, GA. Valid through 4/3O/2O28.
Carahnnft | OMNIA Partners | Contract Documents
<httpn://vvvvvv.nnnniapartnern.onnn/nuppiiern/oarahnnft/pubiio-neotnr/o
nntraot-dnounnentn>
FL OyNG OGG Florida OyNG Digital Security Solutions Contract
43230000-24-GTC . Valid through 2/28/2O27.
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City orClearwater
City Council Meeting Minutes August 31. 2D2G
DGR:
* OMN|A PARTNERS CONTRACT O1-154 (IT Security and Data
Protection Solutions) (Region 14 EGCTX) Valid Through 11/30/2027.
-documents#contract-1 517
* GC)URCEVVELLCONTRACT 121S23-OGR. Valid through 2/27/2O28
DGR Systems: Contract 121S23-C)GR | Snuroevveii
<httpn://vvvvvv.nnuroevveii-nnn.gnv/onnperative-purohanino/121S23
-dgr>
DOF Creations:
* C)yNN|A PARTNERS CONTRACT O1-154 (IT Security and Data
Protection Solutions) (Region 14 EGCTX) Valid through 11/30/2027.
-documents#contract-1 517
GovCommectiomDBA Connection Public Sector Solutions:
* SOu[CSvvS|| - 121S23-GVC. Valid through 2/27/2O28.
* Omnia- R25O0O5. Technology Solutions, Products and Services. Valid
through 2/28/2O2Swith option torenew for two (2) additional one-year
terms through February 28. 2O31.
httpn://vvvvvv.nnnniapartnern.onnn/nuppiiern/onnneotinn/pubiio-neotnr/o
nntraot-dnounnentn#onntraot-2306
<httpn://vvvvvv.nnnniapartnern.onnn/nuppiiern/onnneotinn/pubiio-neotnr/
contract-dnounnentn>
* NCPA: National Cooperative Purchasing Alliance- NCPAO1-144. Valid
through 11/3O/2O20with option to renew for five (5) additional one-year
periods through November 3O. 2O3O. NCPA01-144/OMNIA-
National Cooperative Purchasing Alliance - Connection Public
Sector Solutions
<httpn://vvvvvv.gnvonnneotinn.onnn/pubiio-neotnr/onntraotn/nopa>
HP Inc:
* State ofFlorida #4321OOOO-23-NAGPC)-ACG. valid through O0.3O.2O28.
Link:
E_pqgjpMgnt_pgriphqrals and related services>
* State ofFlorida yNFO441OOOOO-24-NAGPC)-ACG. Valid through
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City orClearwater
City Council Meeting Minutes August 31. 2D2G
7/31/2O27.
and related software and services>
UmSight Public Sector Inc:
* State ofFlorida Contract No. 4323OOOO-23-NAGPO-ACG. Valid through
4/24/2O27.
value added reseller svar>
* Omnia Contract 23-00S2-O3Technology Products, Solutions and
Related Services Cobb County, GA. Valid through 4/3O/2O28
httpn://vvvvvv.nnnniapartnern.onnn/nuppiiern/innight-pubiio-neotnr/pubii
o-neotnr/onntraot-dnounnentn#onntraot-1846
<httpn://vvvvvv.nnnniapartnern.onnn/nuppiiern/innight-pubiio-neotnr/pubi
io-neotnr/onntraot-dnounnentn>
* Omnia Contract R25O0O7Technology Solutions, Products and Gan/ioas
Region 4ESC - TXValid through 2/28/2O2Swith option torenew for two
(2) additional one-year terms through February 28, 2031.
httpn://vvvvvv.nnnniapartnern.onnn/nuppiiern/innight-pubiio-neotnr/pubii
o-neotnr/onntraot-dnounnentn#onntraot-2310
<httpn://vvvvvv.nnnniapartnern.onnn/nuppiiern/innight-pubiio-neotnr/pubi
io-neotnr/onntraot-dnounnentn>
N1ythics' LLC:
* Omnia Contract R24O2O2Oracle Products and Services. Valid through
12/31/2O27with option b» renew for two (2) additional one-year periods
through Oaoambar 31. 2029.
* Omnia Contract 18O233-OO2Oracle Products and Services. Valid
through 11/30/2028. with option to renew for two (2) additional one-year
periods through Oaoambar 31. 2029.
httpn://vvvvvv.nnnniapartnern.onnn/nuppiiern/nnythion/pubiio-neotnr/onnt
raot-dnounnentn#onntraot-2107
<httpn://vvvvvv.nnnniapartnern.onnn/nuppiiern/nnythion/pubiio-neotnr/on
ntraot-dnounnentn>
SHUInternational Corp:
* State ofFlorida Contract No. 4323OOOO-23-NAGPC)-ACG. Valid through
4/24/2O27.
value added reseller svar>
* TIPS - Taoh. Solutions, Products & Gan/ias23O1O5. Valid through
pager
City orClearwater
City Council Meeting Minutes August 31, 2026
5/31/2028. <https://www.tips-usa.com/vendorProfile.cfm?
Record ID=7D90DFBE5334489DF430FE8FF41599D3>
• Omnia 2024056-02 (City of Mesa, AZ). Valid through 7/1/2028.
<https://www.omniapartners.com/suppliers/shi/public-sector/contract
-documents>
• Sourcewell contract 121923-SHI. Valid through 2/27/28.
<https://www.sourcewell-mn.gov/cooperative-purchasing/121923-S
HI>
Authorization is also requested to add additional vendors, as needed, following
the appropriate procurement process and with oversight from the Procurement
Division, including, but not limited to, Small Purchases pursuant to Clearwater
Code of Ordinances Section 2.561(5).
APPROPRIATION CODE AND AMOUNT:
Funds are available in various departmental cost centers in object codes
550100 (Office Supplies), 550400. (Operating Supplies), 550800 (Computer
Parts), 530100 (Professional Services), 530300 (Contractual Services), and
530500 (Maintenance) as well as various Capital Improvement Projects to fund
these purchases.
STRATEGIC PRIORITY:
These purchases help accomplish strategic objectives 1.2, 1.3, and 1.4. The
Information Technology Department maintains critical public infrastructure to
deliver sustain a high level of service to support a safe and healthy community.
Vice Mayor Cotton moved to authorize purchase orders to multiple
vendors for the purchase of computer parts, product maintenance,
servers, and network equipment in the cumulative not-to-exceed
amount of$3,500,000.00, for term October 1, 2026 through
September 30, 2027, or through expiration of the respective contract
if earlier, pursuant to Clearwater Code of Ordinances Section 2.563
(1)(c), piggyback, and Section 2.561(5), small purchases, and
authorize the appropriate officials to execute same. The motion was
duly seconded and carried unanimously.
6.3 Approve a purchase order to Fiber AssetCo LLC d/b/a Zayo (Zayo) of New York, New
York, for dedicated internet access services for the City's wide-area network in a
not-to-exceed amount of$142,800.00 for a 36-month term, from September 1, 2026
through August 31, 2029, and authorize the appropriate officials to execute same.
The City's computer infrastructure utilizes Fiber AssetCo LLC d/b/a Zayo (Zayo)
as an internet service provider (ISP) on its wide-area-network (WAN) for
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City of Clearwater
City Council Meeting Minutes August 31, 2026
support of enterprise operations.
Zayo is part of our wide-area-network design that uses multiple ISP providers to
create redundancy and provide diversity of service to increase resilience and
continuity of service. If/when any one provider experiences an outage, the City
can redirect network traffic to another ISP to maintain operational continuity. As
Zayo infrastructure is already built out to the City's data center location, and
change of vendor would incur additional one-time expenses to establish service
from another provider, competitive award would be impractical, pursuant to City
Ordinance Section 2.563(1)(d).
This is a 36-month renewal and changes of existing dedicated internet service
from Crown Castle this provider.
Zayo will provide two separate internet connections (1 Gbps and 2Gbps of
bandwidth) on the City's network to support redundancy and improve resiliency
of service.
The 1 Gbps connection has a monthly recurring charge of$1,800.00
($64,800.00 over 36 months), and the 2Gbps connection has a monthly
recurring charge of$2,000.00 ($72,000.00 over 36 months), for a combined
36-month total of$142,800.00. Both quotes include a $0.00 non-recurring
charge. The not to exceed amount also includes $6,000.00 for increased
services for emergencies.
The total amount requested for this service term represents $5,000 annual
savings from the previous contract period.
APPROPRIATION CODE AND AMOUNT:
Funds for this contract are available in the Information Technology budget, cost
code 5559862-530300 (Contractual Services). Future year costs will be
requested as part of the annual budget process. The Information Technology
department is funded by revenues from the Administrative Services Fund, an
internal service fund of the city responsible for the administration of city-wide
technology services.
STRATEGIC PRIORITY:
These purchases help accomplish strategic objectives 1.2, 1.3, and 1.4. The
Information Technology Department maintains critical public infrastructure to
deliver sustain a high level of service to support a safe and healthy community.
Councilmember Teixeira moved to approve a purchase order to
Fiber AssetCo LLC d/b/a Zayo (Zayo) of New York, New York, for
dedicated internet access services for the City's wide-area network
in a not-to-exceed amount of $142,800.00 for a 36-month term, from
September 1, 2026 through August 31, 2029, and authorize the
appropriate officials to execute same. The motion was duly
seconded and carried unanimously.
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City of Clearwater
City Council Meeting Minutes August 31, 2026
6.4 Approve a purchase order and renewal agreement to TriTech Software Systems, a
CentralSquare Company, for the renewal of TriTech Software Support and Maintenance
in the amount of$258,591.41, from October 1, 2026 through September 30, 2027,
pursuant to Clearwater Code of Ordinances Section 2.563(1)(d), Impractical, and
authorize the appropriate officials to execute same.
TriTech Software Systems and the Clearwater Police Department (CPD) began
an annual contractual agreement in 2007 for an integrated computer aided
dispatch (CAD) system.
In 2022, the police department and other county law enforcement agencies
entered an interlocal agreement to create the Pinellas Regional Information
Management Enterprise (PRIME) for the purpose of implementing a new
countywide CAD and records management system (RMS). Earlier this year, the
CAD/RMS vendor was found to have breached the implementation agreement,
and the project was subsequently stopped.
While other options are being explored, it is necessary for the police department
to renew the agreement with our current CAD system provider, Tri-Tech
Software Systems.
APPROPRIATION CODE AND AMOUNT:
The cost for the proposed renewal agreement for Fiscal Year 2027 is
$258,591.41. Funding for this contractual agreement is included in the Police
Department's fiscal year 2027 operating budget request for cost code
0101162-530300, contractual services, funded by revenues from the General
Fund.
STRATEGIC PRIORITY:
This project is relevant towards accomplishing the strategic goal of a High
Performing Government, specifically strategic objective 1.4 to foster safe and
healthy communities in Clearwater through first-class public safety and
emergency response services.
Councilmember Allbritton moved to approve a purchase order and
renewal agreement to TriTech Software Systems, a CentralSquare
Company, for the renewal of TriTech Software Support and
Maintenance in the amount of $258,591.41, from October 1, 2026
through September 30, 2027, pursuant to Clearwater Code of
Ordinances Section 2.563(1)(d), Impractical, and authorize the
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City of Clearwater
City Council Meeting Minutes August 31, 2026
appropriate officials to execute same. The motion was duly
seconded and carried unanimously.
6.5 Ratify and confirm a purchase order and agreement to TriTech Software Systems, a
CentralSquare Company, for a specified scope of work in the amount of$107,445.00,
pursuant to Clearwater Code of Ordinances Section 2.563(1)(d), Impractical, and
authorize the appropriate officials to execute same.
TriTech Software Systems and the Clearwater Police Department (CPD) began
an annual contractual agreement in 2007 for an integrated computer aided
dispatch (CAD) system.
In 2022, all law enforcement and fire departments in the county began working
to establish a unified CAD system. The implementation of the countywide CAD
system was unsuccessful and work stopped in 2026. This necessitated
exigent upgrades to our existing system to comply with anticipated security and
encryption changes in the Microsoft Environment.
IT and the Police Department obtained the City Manager's authorization to have
Tri-Tech complete a re-host and upgrade of our current system to ensure
compliance with the upcoming changes to Microsoft's encryption requirements.
Accordingly, we are asking council to ratify and confirm the expenditure to
Tri-Tech in the amount of$107,445.00.
APPROPRIATION CODE AND AMOUNT:
Funding for this project was requested in the Police Department's fiscal year
2027 operating budget in cost code 0101162-530300, contractual services. The
Police Department is funded by revenues from the General Fund.
STRATEGIC PRIORITY:
This project is relevant towards accomplishing the strategic goal of a High
Performing Government, specifically strategic objective 1.4 to foster safe and
healthy communities in Clearwater through first-class public safety and
emergency response services.
Councilmember Mannino moved to ratify and confirm a purchase
order and agreement to TriTech Software Systems, a CentralSquare
Company, for a specified scope of work in the amount of
$107,445.00, pursuant to Clearwater Code of Ordinances Section
2.563(1)(d), Impractical, and authorize the appropriate officials to
execute same. The motion was duly seconded and carried
unanimously.
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City Council Meeting Minutes August 31, 2026
6.6 Authorize a construction contract to SGS Contracting Services, Inc., for the East WRF
Filter Feed Pump Station and Force Main Improvements in the amount of$1,632,070.00,
pursuant to Invitation to Bid (ITB) No. 17-0048-UT, and authorize the appropriate officials
to execute same. (consent)
The East Water Reclamation Facility (WRF) includes a Filter Feed Pump
Station (FFPS) that pumps clarifier effluent to the sand filters. The FFPS is the
sole means of conveying clarified effluent to the filters and is therefore critical to
plant reliability. Due to age, condition, and the risk and consequences
associated with failure, the FFPS discharge piping, valves, and ancillary
equipment require replacement. The sand filtration process is a critical final
step in treatment to ensure compliance with effluent quality requirements before
discharge to the bay.
Jones Edmunds &Associates, Inc. serves as the Engineer of Record for the
project and provided design, permitting, and bidding-phase services for the
improvements to the FFPS and associated force main. The project also
includes resiliency enhancements to improve flood protection and system
reliability.
Public Utilities issued Invitation to Bid 17-0048-UT for construction services for
this project, which closed on April 29, 2026, and received six responsive bids.
SGS Contracting Services, Inc. of Alachua County, Florida, submitted the
lowest responsive and responsible bid in accordance with the plans and
specifications. Following review, the Engineer of Record and City staff
recommend awarding the construction contract to SGS Contracting Services,
Inc. in the amount of$1,632,070.00.
Construction is anticipated to take 365 days following issuance of the Notice to
Proceed.
APPROPRIATION CODE AND AMOUNT:
3217321-530100-M1907 $1,632,070.00
A third quarter budget amendment will transfer$1,850,000.00 from project
3217321-M2605, WRF Maintenance and Repair Program, to 3217321-M 1907,
East Plant R&R, to provide additional project funding. This project is funded by
revenues from the Water and Sewer Utility Enterprise Fund.
STRATEGIC PRIORITY:
In furtherance of the Council's Strategic Plan to achieve High Performing
Government by maintaining public infrastructure through systematic
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City of Clearwater
City Council Meeting Minutes August 31, 2026
management efforts, approval of construction contract to SGS Contracting
Services, Inc. is requested.
Vice Mayor Cotton moved to authorize a construction contract to
SGS Contracting Services, Inc., for the East WRF Filter Feed Pump
Station and Force Main Improvements in the amount of$1,632,070.00,
pursuant to Invitation to Bid (ITB) No. 17-0048-UT, and authorize the
appropriate officials to execute same. The motion was duly seconded
and carried unanimously.
6.7 Approve an Agreement between the City and Fields, Inc. of Clearwater, Florida for the
operation and maintenance of the Barefoot Beach House and Pier 60 Concessions,
located at 332 South Gulfview Boulevard and 7 Causeway Boulevard, respectively, from
March 1, 2027 to February 29, 2032; three additional five-year terms, and authorize the
appropriate officials to execute same.
RFP 20-26 had two responders, and the selection committee selected Fields,
Inc. based on experience and financial yield to the City. Fields, Inc. has been the
operator of both the Barefoot Beach House and Pier 60 Concession stand for
the past two decades. During this time Fields, Inc. has provided exceptional
food concession services and cabana rentals to residents and visitors of
Clearwater Beach. In addition, they have provided capital improvement funds to
improve and repair city facilities on the beach and have contributed to the
support of the Clearwater Beach Lifeguards.
Fields, Inc. has been the successful vendor for the past four Request for
Proposals (RFP's) for both the Barefoot Beach House and Pier 60
Concessions.
Fields, Inc. has played a role in the success of the Beach by providing vital
concession services over the past two decades and it is anticipated that they
will continue to be an important partner in the future.
This item is the culmination of negotiations with Fields, Inc. and city staff and is
being recommended for approval by the City Council.
The current agreement with Fields, Inc. to operate both the Barefoot Beach
House and Pier 60 Concessions expires on February 28, 2027 while this new
agreement will begin on March 1, 2027.
In many respects this agreement is similar to the current agreement however
updated to meet new and current City and State regulations.
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City of Clearwater
City Council Meeting Minutes August 31, 2026
Included in the agreement is a guaranteed base rent of$240,000 per year for
operation and use of both concession buildings as well as an additional
percentage of gross sales above $1.5M starting at 20 percent and increasing to
25 percent at $3M or more. In addition, Fields will provide 50 percent of gross
sales for all beach rentals. Based on the last three years, the City received an
average of$2.7 million per year from beach rentals.
Additional financial investments made by Fields, Inc. included in the agreement
include $5,000 per year for the lifeguard operations on Clearwater Beach and
capital funds of$100,000 per year for capital improvements and renovations to
the Concession Complex.
The agreement includes updated background checks and first aid training
requirements for employees; improved accountability by requiring updated
standards of operation manuals and procedures; and flexibility to expand
product lines and offerings to the public.
Funds generated by this agreement go into the general fund of the City.
APPROPRIATION CODE AND AMOUNT: N/A
USE OF RESERVE FUNDS: N/A
STRATEGIC PRIORITY:
Approval of the lease agreement supports several Strategic Plan Objectives
including:
• 1.1: Provide evidence-based measurement tools to continually guide
municipal performance and promote accountable governance.
• 1.3: Adopt responsive levels of service for public facilities and amenities,
and identify resources required to sustain that level of service.
• 1.5: Embrace a culture of innovation that drives continuous improvement
and successfully serves all our customers.
• 2.1: 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; and
• 2.3: Promote Clearwater as a premier destination for entertainment,
cultural experiences, tourism, and national sporting events.
Parks and Recreation Director Art Kader said Alexandria of Clearwater
and Fields Inc. are more commonly known as Steve and Lisa Chandler.
Councilmember Teixeira moved to approve an Agreement between
the City and Fields, Inc. of Clearwater, Florida for the operation and
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City of Clearwater
City Council Meeting Minutes August 31, 2026
maintenance of the Barefoot Beach House and Pier 60
Concessions, located at 332 South Gulfview Boulevard and 7
Causeway Boulevard, respectively, from March 1, 2027 to February
29, 2032; three additional five-year terms, and authorize the
appropriate officials to execute same. The motion was duly
seconded and carried unanimously.
6.8 Approve a legal services agreement with Dayes Law Firm for representation of Langston
Woodie, a former city employee represented in his individual capacity, in Logan S.
Kinner vs. City of Clearwater, et al. (Case No. 8:26-cv-01080) and authorize the
appropriate officials to execute same.
Langston Woodie, a former city employee, is a named defendant in a federal
complaint alleging that the Plaintiff's civil rights were violated. Plaintiff has also
filed suit against the City of Clearwater in which our in-house litigation attorney
is representing.
The Code of Ordinances requires the City to protect and defend both current
and former employees in any civil action or proceeding in any state or federal
court arising out of any alleged act or omission which occurred or is alleged in
the complaint to have occurred while the employee was acting within the scope
of their public employment or duties. Additionally, the Code allows the
representation of private counsel when representation by the City Attorney's
Office would be inappropriate or due to a conflict of interest.
To ensure the successful defense of the employee, the City Attorney
recommends retaining Dayes Law Firm to represent the employee in this
matter. Dayes Law Firm has agreed to undertake this representation pursuant
to the attached agreement. The City Council authorizes the Interim City Attorney
to approve legal fee invoices in this matter up to the not-to-exceed amount of
$75,000.
This procurement is exempt from bidding pursuant to Section 2.563(1)(g),
Clearwater Code of Ordinances.
APPROPRIATION CODE AND AMOUNT:
This agreement will be coded to the City Attorney's Office cost code 0109600-
530100, Professional Services, funded by General Fund revenue. Third
quarter budget amendments will include an increase to the City Attorney's
Office operating budget to cover the costs of additional outside counsel
necessary for operations in this fiscal year.
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City of Clearwater
City Council Meeting Minutes August 31, 2026
Councilmember Allbritton moved to approve a legal services
agreement with Dayes Law Firm for representation of Langston
Woodie, a former city employee represented in his individual
capacity, in Logan S. Kinner vs. City of Clearwater, et al. (Case No.
8:26-cv-01080) and authorize the appropriate officials to execute
same. The motion was duly seconded and carried unanimously.
7. Second Readings - Public Hearing
7.1 Adopt Ordinance 9931-26 on second reading, amending Clearwater Code of
Ordinances, Chapter 33, Waterways and Vessels, by adding Section 33.122 and
establishing the Stevenson Creek Manatee Protection Zone.
On August 20, 2026, City Council approved Ordinance 9931-26 on first reading,
establishing a proposed manatee protection zone within Stevenson Creek.
Stevenson Creek is a shallow, tidal estuarine waterway that connects to
Clearwater Harbor and provides habitat regularly utilized by the Florida manatee
(Trichechus manatus latirostris). Over the past several years, the City has
worked collaboratively with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation
Commission (FWC), the Stevenson Creek Advocacy Group, and other
stakeholders to evaluate the feasibility of establishing a local manatee protection
zone within the creek. Supporting documentation includes habitat
assessments, citizen-science observations, navigation evaluations, and other
relevant scientific and observational data documenting the regular use of
Stevenson Creek by adult manatees and calves.
Section 379.2431(2)(p), Florida Statutes, authorizes local governments to
regulate vessel speeds for the protection of manatees where the best available
scientific information demonstrates that manatees inhabit an area on a regular
basis. Ordinance 9931-26 establishes a Year-Round Slow Speed Minimum
Wake Manatee Protection Zone within Stevenson Creek, extending from the
mouth of the creek at Clearwater Harbor to the eastern limits identified in Exhibit
A, including the northern tributary to Overbrook Avenue. The zone boundaries
are illustrated on the accompanying map and defined by geographic
coordinates within the ordinance.
Adoption of Ordinance 9931-26 on second reading will allow the City to proceed
with the required state review and approval process. In accordance with state
law, the manatee protection zone will not become effective until it has received
all required approvals from FWC, all necessary permits have been obtained,
and the required regulatory markers have been installed.
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City of Clearwater
City Council Meeting Minutes August 31, 2026
The ordinance is intended to enhance the protection of manatees while
promoting safe and responsible boating practices within Stevenson Creek. The
ordinance is not intended to restrict lawful navigation or appropriate use of the
waterway, but rather to provide additional protection within an area where
documented manatee activity and environmental conditions support a slow
speed minimum wake designation.
STRATEGIC PRIORITY:
High Performing Government: 1.2 Maintain public infrastructure, mobility
systems, natural lands, environmental resources, and historic features through
systematic management efforts.
Community Well-Being: 3.1 Support neighborhood identity through services and
programs that empower community pride and belonging.
Community Well-Being: 3.2 Preserve community livability through responsible
development standards, proactive code compliance, and targeted revitalization.
Community Well-Being: 3.4 Inspire citizen participation through civic
engagement and volunteerism to build strong, inclusive, and engaged
communities.
Four individuals spoke in support.
Ordinance 9931-26 was presented and read by title only.
Councilmember Mannino moved to adopt Ordinance 9931-26 on
second and final reading. The motion was duly seconded and upon
roll call, the vote was:
Ayes: 5 - Mayor Rector, Vice Mayor Cotton, Councilmember Allbritton,
Councilmember Teixeira and Councilmember Mannino
8. Citizens to be Heard on topics pertaining to city business but not on the agenda.
Christopher Cohen suggested the City consider transitioning its fleet to
the Chevy Tahoe and making the city fleet center a General Motors
warranty repair facility for the potential cost savings. He expressed
privacy concerns associated with Flock cameras and suggested the
sports complex being proposed at The Landings should be located at
Chi Chi Rodriguez site.
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City of Clearwater
City Council
9. City Manager Reports
Meeting Minutes August 31, 2026
The City Manager said it was an honor to attend the Tampa Bay Law
Enforcement Heroes Gala where Clearwater Police Officer Andrew Billups
was recognized as Officer of the Year. She thanked Officer Billups and the
Clearwater Police Department for their dedicated service.
10. City Attorney Reports
11. Other Council Action
11.1 Opioid Abatement Funding Advisory Board Update - Councilmember Teixeira
Councilmember Teixeira provided copies of the 2025 Interim Data
Report on Florida Drug Trends. She said the data shows Florida is
seeing a decrease in drug related deaths, which decreased by 19% from
the previous year.
12. Closing comments by Councilmembers (limited to 3 minutes)
Vice Mayor Cotton thanked the men and women who serve the
Clearwater Police Department and recognized Officer Andrew Billups for
the heroic efforts. He wished all a happy Labor Day.
13. Closing Comments by Mayor
14. Adjourn
The Mayor reviewed recent and upcoming events. He congratulated the
following entities for receiving a 2026 Besties Award in their respective
categories: Frenchy's Rockaway Grill, The BayCare Sound, Clear Sky
Beachside Cafe, Jimmy's Crow's Nest, and Pier 60 Sugar Sand Festival.
The meeting adjourned at 7:04 p.m.
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