Public Meetings - Clearwater, Florida

The Clearwater City Council held a work session on February 2, 2026, at 1:30 PM in the Main Library Council Chambers. The meeting covered numerous consent agenda items, including housing development, sponsorship sales, security services, utility contracts, and grants. Key discussions focused on the appointment of an interim city attorney, restoration of public comment for non-agenda items, a resolution opposing offshore oil and gas drilling, and qualifications for a permanent city attorney. All consent items were approved unanimously. Consent Calendar - Fifth Amendment to Contract for Sale of City-Owned Land (1454 S. Martin Luther King Jr. Ave.): Approved. The amendment extends the closing date to June 30, 2026, and the project completion date to December 31, 2028, removes the permit contingency, allows assignment to a single-asset LLC, and specifies default terms allowing the city to revert ownership if timelines are not met. The project includes 24 townhomes, half restricted to 80% AMI and half to 120% AMI. (ID25-13242.1) - Professional Services Agreement with Instigo Agency (Sponsorship Sales): Approved. A $5,000 per month retainage fee plus 12% of gross sponsorship sales, initial one-year term with four one-year renewal options. Includes a benchmark of $45,000 in revenue by the nine-month mark. (ID26-00453.1) - Increase and Extension to Purchase Order with Sentry Event Services (Security): Approved. $86,000 increase for Year Four, extending the contract up to 120 days while a new RFP is finalized. (ID26-00483.2) - Construction Contract with TLC Diversified (Lift Station Repairs): Approved. $5,000,000 annually for an initial term with three one-year renewal options. (ID25-11524.1) - Work Order with McKim & Creed (Coachman Station Disinfection System Update): Approved. Not-to-exceed $243,454 for design and construction phase services. (ID25-12934.2) - Award of Construction Contracts to TLC Diversified, Murphy Pipeline Contractors, and Applied Drilling Engineering (Water, Reclaimed Water, Well Repairs): Approved. $9,000,000 annually for a one-year term with three one-year renewals. (ID26-00424.3) - Purchase Order to Ferguson Waterworks (Neptune Water Meter OEM Parts): Approved. One-time purchase of $45,679.30, impractical to bid. (ID26-00564.4) - Standard Grant Agreement with FDEP (North Beach Stormwater Improvements): Approved. $3,000,000 state grant with no match required for design and construction of six stormwater pump stations. (ID25-12845.1) - Roadway Transfer Agreement with Town of Belleair (Watkins Road): Approved. Transfers a portion of Watkins Road to Belleair; city retains easement for water main; road resurfacing cost shared. (ID26-00925.2) - Purchase Order to Routeware (Solid Waste Service Verification): Approved. $769,626.65 for a 36-month term for camera systems and back-office integration. (ID25-13226.1) - Appointment of Chantala Davis to North Greenwood CAC: Approved. Ms. Davis serves as the Non Profit Representative for a term expiring February 5, 2028. (ID26-00797.1) - Second Readings of Ordinances 9866-26 through 9871-26 (Annexations and Zoning): Approved without discussion. These ordinances annex properties on S. McMullen Booth Road and 2265 N. McMullen Booth Road, and amend the future land use map and zoning atlas accordingly. (IDs 8.3–8.8) Discussion Items - Appointment of Interim City Attorney (Item 8.1): Council discussed the draft agreement for Owen Kohler to serve as interim city attorney effective February 10, 2026. City Attorney Margolis outlined several scenarios: the agreement expires August 7, 2026, or upon appointment of a permanent city attorney; Kohler may apply for the permanent role; council may appoint a different interim at any time; and the council can extend his term beyond August if needed. The draft will be updated and presented for approval at the February 5 council meeting. - Restoration of Public Comment for Non-Agenda Items (Item 8.2): Council discussed a resolution to reinstate public comment on matters not on the agenda. Key provisions: 30 minutes or 10 speakers (whichever is greater), no time-sharing, comment period placed near the end of the meeting (after voting items but before city manager/attorney reports), and automatic expiration after the May 7, 2026 meeting. Sign-up procedures will be finalized administratively. A majority favored keeping comment at the end of the meeting for now. Resolution will be on the February 5 council agenda. - Resolution Opposing Offshore Oil and Gas Leasing (Item 11.1): Councilmember Allbritton introduced a resolution opposing new offshore oil and gas leasing off Florida’s coast, citing impacts on tourism and fishing. The mayor suggested removing Rep. Kathy Castor (who does not represent Clearwater) from the list of recipients. The resolution will be brought back to the February 17 work session with formatting and minor modifications. - Qualifications for New City Attorney (Item 11.2): Council discussed desired qualifications for the permanent city attorney. Consensus included: at least five years of municipal law experience with demonstrated supervisory/management of a legal team; residency preferred (Pinellas County or Tampa Bay region, but not required); board certification not required but may be discussed with the recruiter; and updating the job description to remove outdated references (e.g., fax machines). HR Director Macris confirmed the search firm (SGR) is under contract and will incorporate these preferences. Key Outcomes - All consent calendar items were approved unanimously by voice vote. - The interim city attorney agreement will be presented for formal approval at the February 5 council meeting. - The resolution on public comment will be considered on February 5; if adopted, non-agenda public comment will be available through May 7, 2026. - The resolution opposing offshore drilling will be revised and placed on the February 17 work session agenda. - HR will update the city attorney job description based on council input and circulate the recruitment brochure for approval. - The city manager reminded council of the first strategic plan session on February 9 at Morningside Rec Center (open to the public but not participatory) and the Tallahassee trip next week. - City Attorney Margolis reported that transition planning with Owen Kohler is progressing well.

The City of Clearwater Pension Trustees met on February 2, 2026, at 1:00 PM in the Main Library Council Chambers. The meeting was brief and entirely procedural, with no public comments or trustee discussion. All agenda items were approved unanimously. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (ID25-1344): The minutes of the December 1, 2025, Pension Trustees meeting were approved as submitted. - New Business Item 4.1 (ID25-1309): Approved the new hires for acceptance into the Pension Plan as listed. - New Business Item 4.2 (ID25-1310): Approved the requests of employees Reynold Choo-Chew (Parks and Recreation), Brian Dort (General Services), Keith McReynolds (Parks and Recreation), and Sean Witherspoon (Police) to vest their pensions under Section 2.419 of the Employees’ Pension Plan. - New Business Item 4.3 (ID25-1311): Approved the requests of employees Nathan Ballouz (Fire), Thelma Catio (Parks and Recreation), David Derrick (Police), Darrell Ford (Public Works), Shawn Lawrentz (Fire), John Llauget (Parks and Recreation), Frank McCormick (Solid Waste & Recycling), Jennifer Pauley (Fire), Mark Plyler (Gas), John Savage (Fire), Brian Schonborn (Fire), and Chris VanOpdorp (Fire) for regular pensions under Sections 2.416 and 2.424 of the Employees’ Pension Plan. Public Comments & Testimony - No citizens appeared to address the trustees on items not on the agenda or on any agenda item. Director's Report - The Director reported no items at this time. Key Outcomes - All four agenda items (minutes, new hires, vesting requests, and pension requests) were approved unanimously by voice vote. No opposition was recorded. The meeting adjourned immediately after the Director's report.

The Downtown Development Board (DDB) met on February 2, 2026, at 1:00 PM in the Main Library Council Chambers. The meeting covered routine approvals, a special events report with Placer AI data, a presentation on the World's Largest Rubber Duck event, and the appointment of a new board member. All actions were unanimous. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The minutes from the January 12, 2026 meeting were approved unanimously. - First Quarter Budget Amendments: The DDB's first quarter budget amendments for fiscal year 2025-2026 were approved. The amendments reflected updated revenue projections and funding needs. - October through December 2025 Financial Statement: The financial statement for filing was approved. Total expenditures and transfers out through December 2025 were $575,971. The remaining available balance as of October 2025 was $653,810. Public Comments & Testimony - Appointment to Fill Vacancy: Two members of the public spoke in favor of applicant Kevin Tetlisi. Dan Mahoney, owner of Downtown Pizza, supported Tetlisi, stating he has been a great addition to the block and brings vibrancy. Tony Teller (500 block) expressed support for his wife and another applicant, emphasizing the need for board members who represent unity, community, and growth, and not self-interest. Discussion Items - Appointment to Fill Board Vacancy: Staff reported that 10 applications were received for the vacant seat, with five qualifying under the ordinance. Qualified applicants: Jessica Andehar (Nash Keys employee), Kevin Tetlisi (District Bistro owner), Pavlinka Vitanoff (The Ring workspaces employee), and Alana Whitehouse (Frank Crum employee). A letter of recommendation was received for one applicant. Board members (Councilmember Albert, Vice Mayor, Councilmember Cotton, and the Mayor) expressed support for Kevin Tetlisi, citing his experience as a downtown business owner (three businesses), relationships with merchants, and understanding of downtown needs. The Mayor also acknowledged another applicant, Juan Garcia, who moved his business from Clearwater Beach to downtown, encouraging his continued involvement. Kevin Tetlisi was appointed unanimously to the board through December 31, 2027. - Special Events Report (April–December 2025): Vicky Shire (CRA) and Chris Cook (Parks and Recreation) presented a consolidated report on DDB-funded special events, combining self-reported attendance and Placer AI data. Key events and figures: - Ukulele Festival (April 12): Self-reported 3,000; Placer AI 1,100; approved funding $20,375. - Cinco de Mayo Taco Festival (May 5): Self-reported 2,000; Placer AI 5,500; approved $6,200, reimbursed $4,629. - Cinco de Mayo Cleveland Street Market (May 5): Self-reported 600-800; no Placer AI data shown. - Taste of Clearwater (May 31): Self-reported 2,500; Placer AI 1,300; approved $30,000. - Another event: Self-reported $2,000; Placer AI $2,300; approved $15,000, reimbursed $12,503. - Clearwater Jazz Holiday (Oct 16-19): Self-reported daily attendance 4,200; 3,600; 4,800; 3,800. Placer AI: 2,200; 2,300; 3,800; 2,200. - CJH Presents Holiday Music Experience (Dec 6): Self-reported 200; insufficient Placer AI data. - Fall Y'all (Oct 5-6): Self-reported 5,000 (Oct 4) and 3,000 (Oct 5); Placer AI 4,900 and 2,900; reimbursed $21,705. - Jingle Bell Family Fun Fest (Dec 20): Self-reported 4,000-5,000; Placer AI 3,900; approved $12,900. Chris Cook explained Placer AI uses anonymized cell signal data to estimate attendance, visitor demographics, and movement patterns. It can filter data by visitors vs. residents and workers. Staff will be able to provide historical trends, baseline data, and event economic impact (e.g., how many event attendees dined at downtown restaurants). Board members praised the tool for objective decision-making and asked about tracking visitor spillover to downtown businesses. - Director's Report: Director Jesus Nino provided updates: - Marketing/PR firm RBOA signed an agreement; $50,000 DDB budget. One-on-one meetings with council members and staff are being scheduled. - Conversations with St. Pete College on why their mobile vendor initiative did not materialize; they remain committed to downtown activation. - Tasty Tampa Bay at Coachman Park (Feb 21, 11 AM–6 PM) by Saucy Queen; DDB sponsorship $12,900. - Downtown Clearwater Ukulele Festival (Mar 15, 11 AM–6 PM) by Tampa Bay Ukulele Society and Achieva Credit Union; requested $15,000. - Micro-grant activity: Three approved for $8,012; four individuals applied, three awarded, one in progress for total $23,551.99. - DDB special event grant funding: 12 approved for $340,000; total paid out $245,479 due to under-budget events and two cancellations. - World's Largest Rubber Duck Presentation: Amber Brace (Arts and Cultural Affairs Manager) and Jules Smith presented highlights of the rubber duck event held in December 2025/January 2026. Key stats: - 108 photo time slots sold out for Jeep photo shoots. - Market Marie: over 8,000 attendees; Ferris wheel sold 800 tickets (record day). - Duck Dash 5K: 441 registrations (capped at 500); media coverage doubled registrations overnight. - Rubber Duck Birthday Bash: nearly 5,000 attendees. - Scenes on the Green: lower attendance due to cold weather. - Duck and Drive Jeep Invasion: a couple thousand attendees. - Total event cost: $45,360 (excluding PD costs and some advertising). Revenue: $18,853 from 5K and Jeep photos (vendor spots additional $1,000). Sponsorships: $21,500 from DDB plus $23,500 from outside sponsors (Spa Manufacturers, Visit St. Pete/Clearwater, CGS Energy, Hanson Inn and Suites, Clearwater Marine Aquarium). - Parking revenue doubled compared to same period last year (no concerts at Baycare Sound): $23,931. - Businesses on Cleveland Street participated by painting ducks on windows and offering specials; feedback positive. - Placer AI data: 21,500 unique visits to Coachman Park over the event period (excluding two days). - Website: 35,475 page views; visitors from 46 countries; live stream (duck cam) got 7,391 views; selfie contest had 414 submissions. - Media coverage included Wall Street Journal, local outlets; estimated PR value in millions. - Board members expressed strong support for repeating the event annually or biannually. The duck owner has right of first refusal and would not book within 300 miles if Clearwater renews. Consensus: interested in bringing it back, possibly in a different format, and staff to explore options. Key Outcomes - Unanimous approval of minutes, budget amendments, financial statement, and appointment of Kevin Tetlisi to the DDB board. - Special events report received as information; Placer AI data will be used for future funding decisions. - Rubber duck event was deemed a significant success; staff directed to explore returning the duck (possibly annually or biannually) and bring a proposal to the board. - Marketing/PR firm RBOA contract signed; next steps include one-on-one interviews and strategy sessions. - Meeting adjourned at approximately [no time given in transcript].

The Clearwater Municipal Code Enforcement Board met on January 28, 2026, at 1:30 PM (18:30 UTC) in the Main Library Council Chambers. The board considered 20 new business items, 4 old business items, and 8 nuisance abatement lien filings, along with the election of officers. The meeting lasted approximately 3 hours. Key actions included approval of a stipulated order with a $42,500 fine for illicit discharge, multiple violation findings with deadlines and daily fines, and acceptance of affidavits of compliance and non-compliance. The board elected a new Chairman and Vice Chair. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The minutes of the December 17, 2025 meeting were approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made during the meeting. The agenda did not include a dedicated public comment period. Discussion Items - Case 197-25 (Illicit Discharge): The board adopted a stipulated order finding Moss & Associates in violation for illicit discharge at 400 Coronado Ave. The order imposes a fine of $42,500, as agreed by both parties. - Case 146-25 (Residential Rental Business Tax Receipt): The respondent was found in violation, but the violation was corrected prior to the hearing. No fine was imposed, but a warning of $500 per day for repeat violations was issued. - Case 01-26 (Portable Storage Unit): The respondent denied using the trailer for storage. The board continued the case to February 25, 2026, to allow the city to re-notice under a different code section (nuisance/condition), as the trailer had deteriorated. - Case 02-26 (Exterior Surfaces & Roof Maintenance): The respondent admitted violations and outlined plans for a major renovation funded by a CRA grant. The board set a compliance deadline of March 25, 2026, with a fine of $150 per day per violation. The city noted that if progress is shown, the affidavit of non-compliance may be delayed. - Case 03-26 (Multiple Violations – 1910 Union St.): No respondent appeared. The board found the respondent in violation for exterior surfaces, roof, doors/windows, pool, and exterior storage, setting a deadline of February 28, 2026, with a fine of $150 per day per violation. - Case 04-26 (Roof Maintenance – 315 N Corona Ave.): The respondent was absent. The board found violation and set a deadline of February 28, 2026, with a fine of $150 per day. - Case 05-26 (Parking Lot Surfaces – 1384 Seabreeze St.): The respondent was absent. The board found violation and set a deadline of February 20, 2026, with a fine of $150 per day. The inspector noted over $526,000 in existing liens on the property. - Case 06-26 (Prohibited Signage – 395 Coronado Dr.): The violation was corrected prior to the hearing. The board issued a declaration of violation with no fine, but warned of $500 per day for repeat violations. - Case 07-26 (Sign Maintenance – 490 Mandalay Ave.): Two violations: temporary banner sign (complied) and permanent sign maintenance (still in violation). The board found the temporary sign violation resolved (declaration) and the permanent sign violation set for compliance by February 28, 2026, with a fine of $150 per day. - Case 08-26 (Sidewalk Signs & Permits – 636 S Gulfview Blvd.): The respondent appeared. The sidewalk sign was removed (declaration), but banner signs remained. The board set a deadline of February 28, 2026, for banner removal, with a fine of $150 per day. - Case 10-26 (Exterior Surfaces – 3404 Brigadoon Dr.): The respondent admitted and committed to compliance by March 1, 2026, with a fine of $150 per day. - Case 11-26 (Fences & Walls, Exterior Surfaces – 4004 Brigadoon Cir.): The respondent admitted but requested 30 additional days due to family hardship. The board extended the deadline to April 1, 2026, with a fine of $150 per day. - Case 12-26 (Permits – 123 N Glenwood Ave.): The respondent was absent. The board set a deadline of March 28, 2026, for obtaining a permit, with a fine of $150 per day. - Case 15-26 (Permits – 705 Vine Ave.): The respondent was absent. The board set a deadline of February 28, 2026, for obtaining a permit, with a fine of $150 per day. - Case 16-26 (Housing – Means of Egress – 1387 Mission Hills Blvd.): The respondent appeared and admitted. The board set a deadline of February 27, 2026, for clearing a safe path of travel, with a fine of $150 per day. - Case 18-26 (Permits – 1738 N Fort Harrison Ave.): The respondent denied knowledge of the unpermitted work. The board found violation and set a deadline of February 28, 2026, for obtaining a permit, with a fine of $150 per day. - Case 20-26 (Permits – 413 Pleasant St.): The respondent admitted and had filed a permit application. The board set a deadline of February 28, 2026, for permit issuance, with completion within 6 months, and a fine of $150 per day. Old Business Items - Affidavits of Compliance (4.1.1-4.1.7): The board accepted 7 affidavits of compliance for various cases (69-25, 93-25, 142-25, 147-25, 148-25, 181-25, 198-25). - Affidavits of Non-Compliance (4.2-4.5): The board accepted 4 affidavits of non-compliance: - Case 93-25 (Residential Rental Business Tax Receipt – 904 Vine Ave.) - Case 115-25 (Fences & Walls – 832 Narcissus Ave.) - Case 122-25 (Residential Rental Business Tax Receipt – 1390 S Hillcrest Ave.) - Case 128-25 (Permits – 1165 Eldridge St.) – Attorney for Karoly Windows & Doors appeared and requested additional time. The board accepted the non-compliance, and fines will run from the date of acceptance. Nuisance Abatement Lien Filings - The board considered 8 nuisance abatement cases (6.2-6.9). For case 35-26 (Inoperative Vehicle – 1746 Drew St.), the city requested a standard fine rather than abatement because the vehicle was hardwired into the ground. The board found violation and set a deadline of February 14, 2026, with a fine of $150 per day. For the remaining cases (36-26, 37-26, 38-26, 39-26, 40-26, 41-26, 42-26), the board issued standard nuisance abatement orders with 5-day compliance deadlines, authorizing the city to abate and place liens if not complied. Key Outcomes - Stipulated Order Approved: Case 197-25 – $42,500 fine for illicit discharge. - Violation Findings: 18 cases were found in violation with deadlines ranging from 5 days to 60 days, and daily fines of $150 to $500 for repeat violations. - Continances: One case (01-26) continued to February 25, 2026, for re-noticing. - Affidavits of Compliance: 7 accepted. - Affidavits of Non-Compliance: 4 accepted, with fines imposed. - Nuisance Abatement Orders: 7 cases approved with 5-day deadlines and city authorization to abate; 1 case handled as standard fine. - Election of Officers: Mr. Brown elected Chairman, Mr. Kenney elected Vice Chair for 2026.

The Marine Advisory Board held a special meeting on January 28, 2026, at 8:00 AM in the Clearwater Main Library Council Chambers. The sole agenda item was a draft letter from the Stevenson Creek Advocacy Group addressed to the Clearwater City Council, concerning Stevenson Creek Aquatic Preserve. The board heard public testimony, deliberated on the letter's content, and ultimately decided to revise the letter to focus on establishing a manatee protection zone rather than opposing dock construction. Public Comments & Testimony - Tim Hughes (Stevenson Creek Advocacy Group): Expressed full support for the draft letter and emphasized the need for a manatee protection zone extending from the bridge to the headwaters of the aquatic preserve, citing conflicts between boaters and manatees in the narrow channel. - Mike Foley (Stevenson Creek Advocacy Group, resident at 1809 Apache Shale): Described 30 years of work to restore Stevenson Creek from a polluted ditch to a model urban estuary. He stated the county had already approved the dock act, but the letter could not be used in the appeal process. He highlighted that over 200 manatees were counted in the creek over a nine-month period (preliminary report) and noted six documented manatee deaths in the estuary since 2016, four caused by boats. - Darrell Lakey (resident at 1792 Overbrook Avenue, boat owner on the creek): Stated that between a 1.2-foot and 3.2-foot tide, he has about five to six hours per day to navigate. He supported the manatee protection zone and noted that the proposed docks extending 80 feet from the north shore would further restrict the already narrow channel. - Unnamed resident (Clearwater Beach, 855 Bay Way Boulevard): Raised concerns about a hotel development on Clearwater Beach with docks, noting a decline in manatees and seagrass damage in that waterway, and warned of similar future impacts on Stevenson Creek. Discussion Items - Draft Letter Content: Board members questioned why the letter omitted key data, such as the manatee count and water depth measurements. Member noted the draft letter lacked mention of depth restrictions under the bridge and in the channel, which could impede manatee movement at low tide. The letter used language like “extraordinary” and “strongly urge,” which some felt was too subjective and would be easily contested. - Docks vs. Manatee Protection: Debate centered on whether the letter should oppose the proposed large commercial docks or focus solely on a manatee protection zone. Some members argued the docks themselves were not a direct threat to manatees because manatees could swim around pilings and under floating docks. Others countered that the docks (with over 40 pilings and 80-foot extent) would occupy the deepest part of the channel, creating a choke point at low tide and potentially trapping manatees upstream or downstream. The majority consensus shifted to supporting a manatee protection zone as the primary objective, separate from dock opposition. - Water Depth and Navigability: Members discussed that the average depth in the creek is three feet, as shallow as one foot in places. At low tide, the channel near the proposed docks is only 1.5 to 2 feet deep. The bridge clearance restricts boat size (only small boats like 17-footers without T-tops can pass at high tide). It was noted that many existing docks on the creek are unused because boats cannot be practically kept there. - Staff Update: A staff member (unidentified by name in transcript) reported that the city had completed a feasibility study for a slow-speed minimum-wake zone and determined the best course is a local ordinance manatee protection zone. Next steps include defining boundaries (between the first and third bridge), drafting an ordinance and letter of intent, submitting to FWC for review, then taking to city council for approval and to the state for a permit. The advocacy group’s citizen science data on manatee counts will support the application. Key Outcomes - Letter Revision: The board decided to request that the Stevenson Creek Advocacy Group rewrite the draft letter to focus exclusively on the manatee protection zone, omitting opposition to the docks. The revised letter should include factual data on manatee counts, water depth, and navigational restrictions. The board expressed general support for the revised letter but will need to vote on it at a future meeting after individual review. - Next Meeting: The revised letter will be distributed to board members individually; they cannot share edits among themselves due to Sunshine Law requirements. The board will reconvene to vote on the letter either at a special meeting called by the chair or at the next regularly scheduled meeting on March 18, 2026. - Manatee Protection Zone Process: Staff will proceed with drafting the ordinance and letter of intent using the advocacy group’s data, submit to FWC, and eventually bring to city council. A letter of support from the Marine Advisory Board will be included in the package.

The Clearwater City Council held a special meeting on January 27, 2026, at 8:00 AM in the Main Library Council Chambers to deliberate and select an executive recruitment service to fill the vacant City Attorney position. After reviewing three proposals and hearing public comment, the council unanimously approved SGR (formerly SGR Consulting) to conduct the search. Discussion Items - Proposals Reviewed: Three proposals were evaluated: SGR, Major Lindsay & Africa (MLA), and S. Renee Narlock & Associates. The council discussed each firm’s qualifications, pricing, guarantee terms, and experience, especially in Florida municipal placements. - Mayor’s Remarks: The mayor noted that two proposals were under $50,000 and one over; purchasing code exempts formal RFP for impracticality. He emphasized that the selected firm should work directly with all five council members individually at the outset. The mayor identified SGR as his preference, citing their approach, local government experience, and former city manager recruiters. - Councilmember Alberton: Recalled the prior city attorney search process, supporting SGR and noting the importance of moving quickly given the interim attorney’s departure. - Councilmember Cotton: Stressed the importance of the role given Clearwater’s major assets (airport, marina, tourism, redevelopment) and favored SGR for their deep local government experience, board-certification emphasis, and Florida placements. - Councilmember (Unnamed, likely Rene?): Agreed that SGR had an advantage with Florida placements and an acceptable timeline (shorter than SRNA’s 16 weeks). Supported meeting with recruiters during the process to avoid delays. - Councilmember Manino: Expressed confidence in any choice but raised concerns about SGR being 100% remote (possible communication gaps) and noted that SGR’s cover letter omitted their most recent hire in Northport (the mayor clarified that Northport hired Clearwater’s former city attorney). Manino appreciated SGR’s clear not-to-exceed pricing and noted that SRNA offered a full search guarantee (expenses only) if the hire fails within a year. He found SGR acceptable. - City Attorney (Timmy?): Clarified that the council can negotiate terms but noted SGR’s proposal already includes a 12-month placement guarantee (repeat search for expenses only). The council agreed to keep terms as is. - Point Person: The council designated HR as the coordinating point for SGR. Public Comments & Testimony - Mr. Haluba: Urged the council to conduct an exhaustive, national search to restore public trust, citing prior criticism of the city manager search. He stated that appointments should be based solely on merit and fitness, and asked that Owen Kohler not be considered. He requested that all three proposals be approved and funded. Key Outcomes - Motion and Vote: Councilmember (presumably Alberton) moved to approve SGR’s proposal for the executive recruitment services; the motion was seconded and passed unanimously (all ayes, no nays). - Next Steps: HR will proceed with contracting SGR as proposed, and individual meetings between each council member and SGR will be scheduled to gather input on desired qualifications. Additional Notes - The meeting adjourned after closing comments by councilmembers and the mayor, with no further business.

The Community Development Board (CDB) met on January 20, 2026, at 1:00 PM in the Main Library Council Chambers. The meeting covered approval of consent agenda items, two continuances for North Greenwood overlay district proposals, and a quasi-judicial appeal of a tree removal permit denial. The board voted 5-2 to grant the appeal, allowing the removal of a live oak at 1934 Marlington Way subject to conditions. Consent Calendar - Item 5.1 (FLD2025-07017/TDR2025-07001): Approved flexible development to add one resort attached dwelling unit at 612 Bay Esplanade, including a transfer of development rights. Added condition: a special warranty deed for the TDR must be executed and recorded before any permits are issued. - Item 5.2 (FLD2025-08021): Approved flexible development for existing two-unit resort attached dwelling at 26 Heilwood Street. - Item 5.3 (FLD2025-09023): Approved flexible development for conversion to a wellness clinic at 611 Druid Road E., Suites 305 and 306. - All consent items were approved together with a single vote. Public Comments & Testimony - Tom Ryan (neighbor of the appellant) spoke in support of the tree removal appeal, stating the live oak is causing trip hazards and will damage utilities. He noted his own sidewalk is already buckling and expressed concern about safety for elderly and children. He argued the city should allow removal and replacement with more suitable trees. Discussion Items - Continuances (Items 4.1 & 4.2): The board approved continuations for two North Greenwood overlay proposals: a comprehensive plan amendment (CPA2025-10001) and a future land use map amendment (LUP2025-11005). Both were continued to a future meeting without discussion. - Appeal – Tree Removal Permit Denial (APP2025-12001): The appellant, a representative of the homeowners association, appealed the city's denial of a permit to remove a healthy live oak at 1934 Marlington Way. The tree is approximately nine inches in diameter and poses future risks to sidewalks, driveways, and underground utilities. City arborist Robert Robichot testified that the tree is healthy (rated 3 or above per code) and recommended root barriers or pruning as alternatives. The appellant acknowledged he could not meet all three legal criteria to overturn the denial but argued for common sense and safety. The board deliberated on the three required findings under Community Development Code Section 4-504.B: whether the original decision misconstrued the code, whether granting the appeal would be in harmony with the code's intent, and whether it would be detrimental to public health, safety, and welfare. After discussion, board member Park made a motion to grant the appeal, citing the applicant's safety concerns and potential future damage. The motion passed 5-2. Key Outcomes - Appeal Granted (5-2): The board voted to overturn the tree removal permit denial with conditions: the applicant must either relocate the live oak to another location on the property or replace it with a shade tree of similar diameter. The board asked staff to prepare a list of conditions for final approval at a future meeting. - Continuances Approved: The two North Greenwood overlay items were continued without objection. - Next Meeting: The February 2026 meeting was rescheduled to Thursday, February 19, 2026, due to the holiday week.

The Clearwater City Council met on January 15, 2026, at 6:00 PM in the Main Library Council Chambers. The meeting included a volunteer program recap, approval of consent agenda items, public hearings on annexations and property transfers, second readings of ordinances, and a discussion on the City Attorney search process. Council also heard public comments on funding disclosure and community concerns. Volunteer Program Recap - Kelsey Johnson, Recreation Specialist, presented the 2025 Volunteer Program recap. Volunteers contributed 4,630 participants, 14,879.15 hours, and collected 63,455.14 pounds of litter. The estimated value of volunteer hours was $238,066.40. Consent Agenda - Items 6.1–6.3, 6.8–6.14, and 6.22 were pulled by a member of the public, Mr. Haluba, who questioned whether expenditures were from enterprise funds and argued that funding sources should be disclosed on the agenda. Council members clarified that funding details are included in attachments. All items were approved unanimously after discussion. - Consent item 6.22 approved scheduling strategic planning sessions on February 9, 2026, at 9:00 AM and March 4, 2026, at 2:00 PM at Morningside Recreation Center. Public Comments & Testimony - Mr. Haluba spoke on multiple consent items, asserting that enterprise-funded expenses should be explicitly noted on the agenda. He also objected to the Clearwater Beach Gas Pipeline Intercoastal Subaqueous Crossings, calling it a "foolish bad idea," and opposed expansion of the Clearwater Executive Airport. - Bill Jeminson (Clearwater Academy graduate) commented on the strategic planning sessions, urging the council to adopt focused priorities to avoid "almost good enough" outcomes. - LaDrilla Jenkins (North Greenwood resident) spoke on the surplus property transfer (706 N. Missouri Ave), expressing concern about lack of community input and the erasure of historic landmarks in North Greenwood. Discussion Items - City Attorney Search Process: Council accepted the resignation of City Attorney David Margolis effective February 9, 2026. Owen Kohler was appointed as interim City Attorney, effective February 10, 2026, with a formal employment agreement to be brought back. A special meeting to discuss the search process was scheduled for January 27, 2026, at 8:00 AM. - Appointment to Marine Advisory Board: After discussion, Council voted 4-1 to appoint David Ferrar, with Councilmember Cotton dissenting in favor of Toby Braddenberg. Key Outcomes - Approved consent items (6.1–6.3, 6.8–6.14, 6.22) unanimously. - Approved Resolution 26-01 to sunset the Affordable Housing Advisory Committee (Item 7.1). - Approved transfer of surplus property at 706 N. Missouri Ave to the Community Redevelopment Agency (Item 7.2). - Approved annexations on first reading: 7.3 (unaddressed S. McMullen Booth Rd) and 7.4 (2265 N. McMullen Booth Rd). - Approved second readings of ordinances: 8.1 (Employees’ Pension Plan amendments) and 8.2 (Public-Private Partnerships revisions). - Scheduled a special work session for strategic planning on Feb 9 and Mar 4, 2026. - Scheduled a special meeting on Jan 27, 2026 for City Attorney search. - Councilmember Albright requested placing a resolution opposing new offshore oil and gas leasing off Florida’s coast on the next work session agenda. - Vice Mayor Tcherham announced she will not seek a second term to focus on family matters.

The Clearwater CRA Board met on Monday, January 12, 2026 at 1:00 PM in the Main Library Council Chambers. The board approved the previous meeting minutes, recognized nine business spotlight winners, approved a loan conversion for the Bluff residential project, adopted amendments to three grant programs, and discussed the future of the reimagined Clearwater Library project. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (ID25-1345): The board unanimously approved the minutes from the December 1, 2025 CRA meeting as submitted by the City Clerk. Public Comments & Testimony - Jill Gibbs (Clearwater resident): Thanked outgoing board member David Margolis for his service, noting his diligent work on South Garden Avenue and his role during a crucial time for the city. She stated that nearly 7,000 Clearwater voters signed a citizen initiative protecting downtown city streets, and many expressed deep appreciation for his efforts. She urged him to reconsider his resignation. - Unnamed speaker (event organizer): Reported on the 11th annual Community Family Fun Night, which welcomed almost 5,000 guests (final count approximately 4,700). The speaker thanked the city for support and specifically Dan Slaughter. They also expressed hope that Mr. Margolis would reconsider his decision. Discussion Items - 4.1 – 2025 Business Spotlight Winners: Tasha Attley, CRA Specialist, presented nine winners from the downtown Clearwater and North Greenwood redevelopment areas: Direct Mail 2.0, One Stop Shop, New Vision Behavioral Health, Tequila's Mexican Cantina, Hatchet Hangout, Social Sips Cafe, Soul Sicilian Fusion, Downtown Pizza, and Emily's Restaurant. Each business will receive coordinated marketing support and public recognition. The board commended the businesses for their contributions to Clearwater. - 4.2 – CRA Loan to Clearwater Bluffs LLC: David Margolis explained that the board was asked to convert a previously approved $2.25 million CRA grant into a non‑recourse loan for the Bluff residential development by Gotham/Denunzio. The amount and timing remain the same (paid at commencement of construction if the developer closes by March 1, 2026, plus an early closing incentive of $1 million). The loan will be discharged upon project completion. The board voted unanimously to approve the loan conversion. - 4.3 – Downtown Clearwater Commercial Grant Amendments: Vicky Shire, CRA Manager, presented updates to simplify the application process, clarify eligibility, improve transparency, and update disbursement procedures. The board approved the amendments unanimously. - 4.4 – Residential Exterior Improvement Grant Updates (North Greenwood): Staff recommended raising the maximum grant from $20,000 to $25,000 to reflect current construction costs, and clarifying program guidelines. The board approved the updates unanimously. - 4.5 – North Greenwood Commercial Grant Increase: The board approved increasing the maximum award from $75,000 to $100,000 to respond to rising material and labor costs. The motion passed unanimously. - Director's Report: The director provided updates on several items: - A holiday video produced with the Clearwater Police Department was praised. - Reimagined Clearwater Library project: A pre‑marketing effort has begun using a CRM system. Staff shared national data showing museums face funding challenges (lower attendance, loss of grants). Vice Mayor requested more detailed monthly updates with specific names of institutions and contacts; other members suggested a quarterly update and appointing the Vice Mayor as liaison. The consensus was to provide quarterly updates and allow informal information sharing. - New businesses opening downtown: Saberosos Eat Happy (1011 Cleveland St), Cheesewheel Pasta and Pizza (1100 Cleveland St, Unit A), De Facto Cafe (1401 Gulf to Bay Blvd), and Gulf Side Pizza (coming soon at 600 Cleveland St). - Parking communications: An enhanced parking plan for large downtown events (triggered by attendance over 2,000) includes an ambassador program, social media outreach, and coordination with the Downtown Development Board. - North Greenwood grants: 54 residential grants are being worked on (11 under review, 13 approved or under construction, 17 completed). Commercial grants: 3 approved, 2 completed. - Shipping container village (CULC project) is in site planning review. - Property dispositions: Several uneconomic remainders were transferred, and three CRA properties in the Washington/MLK area will be advertised on January 14, 2026 for 30 days, with interest from about 10 entities. Key Outcomes - Votes: - Consent calendar (minutes) approved unanimously. - Business Spotlight winners recognized by acclaim. - Loan conversion for Clearwater Bluffs LLC (ID25-1312) approved unanimously. - Downtown Clearwater Commercial Grant amendments (ID25-1326) approved unanimously. - Residential Exterior Improvement Grant updates (ID25-1327) approved unanimously. - North Greenwood Commercial Grant maximum increase to $100,000 (ID25-1334) approved unanimously. - Library Project Direction: The board decided that the Vice Mayor will serve as liaison and receive detailed updates from staff, with a quarterly update to the full board on progress and contacts. Staff will provide specific information on institutions and individuals contacted. - Next CRA Outreach Meeting: January 27, 2026 at 3:00 PM at the Main Library, featuring the Denunzio group discussing their project.