TAMPA CITY COUNCIL
April 28, 2016
5:01 p.m.
DISCLAIMER:
This file represents an unedited version of realtime
captioning which should neither be relied upon for
complete accuracy nor used as a verbatim transcript.
The original of this file was produced in all capital
letters and any variation thereto may be a result of
third party edits and software compatibility issues.
Any person who needs a verbatim transcript of the
proceedings may need to hire a court reporter.
[ No audio ]
05:02:52 >> You're kind enough to let us set these off your
05:02:56 regular agenda, and we appreciate that, but we're
05:02:57 requesting the date that's spoken in the resolution.
05:03:01 >> Move the resolution on item number one.
05:03:04 >> Second.
05:03:04 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Have a motion by Mr. Cohen, a second from
05:03:06 Mr. Maniscalco.
05:03:07 All in favor of that motion, please indicate by saying
05:03:09 aye.
05:03:10 Any opposed?
05:03:11 Thank you.
05:03:11 >> Move the resolution, item number two.
05:03:14 >> Second.
05:03:14 >>MIKE SUAREZ: I have a motion from Mr. Cohen, second
05:03:17 from Mr. Maniscalco.
05:03:18 All in favor of that motion, please indicate by saying
05:03:19 aye.
05:03:21 Next up, we have a quasi-judicial proceeding for a
05:03:25 movement on the continuance.
05:03:27 I do not see anyone here from the other side, from the
05:03:31 petitioner's side.
05:03:32 >> Move to open the public hearing on item number three.
05:03:35 >>MIKE SUAREZ: I have a motion from Mr. Cohen to open
05:03:38 public hearing, second from Mr. Maniscalco.
05:03:39 All in favor of that motion please indicate by saying
05:03:44 aye.
05:03:45 Thank you.
05:03:45 All right.
05:03:47 Since I can't, I don't have anyone to swear in unless
05:03:51 Ms. Kert is going to represent, I think we will ask for a
05:03:56 motion to continue the public hearing till May 12 at
05:03:59 5:01 p.m.
05:04:00 >> So moved.
05:04:02 >> No, May 26th.
05:04:03 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Apologize.
05:04:04 May 26th.
05:04:05 To go with the first reading.
05:04:08 I apologize.
05:04:09 May 26 at 5:01 p.m.
05:04:12 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: That's ARZ 16-01.
05:04:17 >>MARTIN SHELBY: Just to clarify, the first reading has
05:04:19 been continued.
05:04:20 That will be heard on May 12.
05:04:24 >>MIKE SUAREZ: It's just to run with the first reading.
05:04:26 We know.
05:04:27 >>MARTIN SHELBY: This will be the secretary public
05:04:29 hearing.
05:04:30 You're opening that tonight and continuing that to May 26
05:04:33 at 5:01 p.m.
05:04:34 Thank you.
05:04:35 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Is there anyone in the public that would
05:04:36 like to speak on item number 3, ARZ, 16-01.
05:04:43 I see no one.
05:04:45 >> Move to --
05:04:47 >> You already made the motion to continue it to May
05:04:49 26th.
05:04:52 >> Do we close first?
05:04:54 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Just wanted to make sure there was no one
05:04:55 in the public that wanted to speak on this item.
05:04:58 So we have already moved that to May 26th at 5:01 p.m.
05:05:03 The motion is open.
05:05:05 All in favor of that motion to move it to May 26 at
05:05:08 5:01 p.m., please indicate by saying aye.
05:05:14 All in favor, aye.
05:05:17 Any opposed?
05:05:19 Okay.
05:05:19 Terrific.
05:05:20 Our next public hearing is now at 5:30.
05:05:22 We are adjourned until that time.
05:05:24 Thank you.
05:34:38 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Roll call please.
05:34:40 [Roll Call]
05:34:42 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: Here.
05:34:45 >>HARRY COHEN: Here.
05:34:46 >>GUIDO MANISCALCO: Here.
05:34:47 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Here.
05:34:48 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Okay, next up is item number 4.
05:34:52 We have a report on the community development block
05:34:55 grant.
05:34:55 The 41st entitlement emergency.
05:35:01 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: Move for public hearing.
05:35:02 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Moved by Mr. Miranda, second by
05:35:05 Mr. Maniscalco.
05:35:06 All in favor please indicate by saying aye.
05:35:07 Thank you.
05:35:15 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Hello.
05:35:16 >> Hello.
05:35:16 It's that time of year when we do our annual action plan.
05:35:20 This is when we start the process of deciding how the
05:35:24 federal funds will be used.
05:35:26 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Ma'am, before you continue, your name for
05:35:28 the record.
05:35:29 >> Sorry.
05:35:29 Vanessa McCleary, I'm the Housing and Community
05:35:32 Development manager for the City of Tampa.
05:35:34 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Thank you.
05:35:35 >> And they told me that I needed to call up the
05:35:38 presentation.
05:35:38 >>MIKE SUAREZ: The presentation is up on our screen.
05:35:40 Now it is up also on the public screen.
05:35:43 >> Thank you.
05:35:43 So, we receive about $8 million from HUD through various
05:35:50 are different grants.
05:35:52 The community development block grant, the emergency
05:35:56 solutions grant, the HOME investment program, housing
05:36:00 opportunities for people with aids and we also receive
05:36:04 Ship dollars.
05:36:05 We are required to create a plan that talks about how we
05:36:12 spend these dollars.
05:36:13 We do it in accordance with the consolidated plan.
05:36:16 At this time, we are opening up the public process and we
05:36:21 will begin receiving proposals for how we might use those
05:36:25 funds.
05:36:25 So we'll have a workshop tomorrow and we'll have another
05:36:29 one on May 3rd to talk about the request for proposal
05:36:32 process and this also provides people an opportunity to
05:36:36 let us know how we're doing with the program so we have
05:36:39 been implementing or if there's something that we haven't
05:36:42 provided that they want to see provided.
05:36:44 So the annual action plan, like I said, is part of the
05:36:49 consolidated plan.
05:36:50 We did a five year plan about four years ago that talked
05:36:54 about what we saw as the needs in the community and
05:36:56 talked about how we would address them over the five
05:36:59 years.
05:36:59 Each year we do an annual action plan that breaks down
05:37:02 that process.
05:37:03 So again, there's community development block grant
05:37:07 dollars, there's HOME dollars, emergency solutions grant.
05:37:12 Housing opportunities for people with aids.
05:37:14 So these are the funding amounts that we're receiving
05:37:18 this year.
05:37:18 So it's about $2.7 million in CDBG, 1.1 in HOME.
05:37:23 HOPWA saw a large increase about 700,000.
05:37:28 Now, that money is split between four counties and ESG
05:37:35 saw a slight increase of 14,000.
05:37:39 Our CDBG which is our most flexible funding went down.
05:37:41 We also saw an increase in our Ship dollars, which come
05:37:47 from the state.
05:37:47 That was about $600,000 increase in those funds.
05:37:51 >>MIKE SUAREZ: In terms of the HOPWA, how much of that is
05:37:55 going to come back to the city?
05:37:57 You said it's four counties.
05:37:58 How much are we going to receive?
05:38:01 >> In Hillsborough County, they don't do it just in city
05:38:03 limits, but Hillsborough County will get about 2 million.
05:38:06 Now I have the breakdown of the different jurisdictions,
05:38:09 so it's split --
05:38:11 >>MIKE SUAREZ: I asked the question before.
05:38:11 Should've have waited till you replied.
05:38:12 Thank you, Ms. McCleary.
05:38:14 >>LISA MONTELIONE: And if the Sadowski fund wasn't rated
05:38:20 to fill the budget gap in the state budget, how much
05:38:23 would it be?
05:38:24 >> Would be about 3.8 million.
05:38:26 >>LISA MONTELIONE: 3.8 as opposed to what we're getting
05:38:29 at two.
05:38:30 All right.
05:38:30 Great.
05:38:31 >> We have petitioned.
05:38:33 Want people to help us do that.
05:38:35 So in terms of the funding that we have, some of those
05:38:38 monies have different caps.
05:38:40 So we have a lot of nonprofits that are seeking funding
05:38:42 from us, so of the 2.7 million, only about 400,000,
05:38:47 because there is that 15% cap for public services.
05:38:50 That's where nonprofits typically fall.
05:38:52 Construction projects are a little different, so they
05:38:55 don't fall into that category.
05:38:56 With HOME, we are required to set aside 15% for a
05:39:01 community housing development organization.
05:39:04 It's a specific designation for an organization that has
05:39:08 low income people on their board.
05:39:12 For that we have to set aside about 156,000.
05:39:17 For our shelter grant, there's a mix of how much can be
05:39:20 used -- sorry, under ESG, how much can be used for
05:39:24 shelter, how much for the rapid rehouse program and
05:39:27 there's a certain split there.
05:39:28 And then you see numbers for the four counties that are
05:39:30 funded through the HOPWA program.
05:39:33 So, we release the RFA, which was our request for funding
05:39:40 applications for CDBG, ESG, HOPWA and it's not listed
05:39:45 there, but we also had HOME in there.
05:39:48 We have a workshop, like I said, tomorrow we'll have one
05:39:51 set of workshops.
05:39:52 Those are mandatory workshops where we explain how
05:39:55 someone can apply for those funds.
05:39:57 They are federal dollars and there are federal
05:40:00 requirements and they're rather tricky, so we want
05:40:03 someone to understand before they putting together a huge
05:40:06 document of information and it doesn't meet guidelines.
05:40:08 We'll do another one on May 3rd for anyone that can't
05:40:11 make it tomorrow on the 29th.
05:40:13 We're doing the first public hearing this evening, which
05:40:15 opens up the process, so people can make comments all the
05:40:19 way through until we do the final draft of the action
05:40:21 plan.
05:40:23 The request for proposals will be due back on May 20th.
05:40:26 We'll pull together a number of panels of subject matter
05:40:30 experts who will help us to evaluate those applications
05:40:33 to determine what is going to be the best use of those
05:40:36 funds and what's going to have the most impact in the
05:40:38 community.
05:40:40 We will then prepare the action plan and bring it back as
05:40:44 a draft for the Council to review and also make it
05:40:47 available to the public for them to make comments on what
05:40:52 we are proposing.
05:40:53 Once we have gone through that entire process, we will
05:40:56 finalize the document, send it on to HUD and then the
05:40:59 funds will be available October 1st.
05:41:01 We also do surveys of the community and we get those out
05:41:09 to the different neighborhood groups.
05:41:10 We have several different meetings.
05:41:12 What we try to do in the past, we actually had meetings
05:41:15 that were specifically for the action plan and we found
05:41:18 those not to be fruitful because we would go and people
05:41:21 were like, what is the action plan?
05:41:23 Why would I come out?
05:41:24 Now what we try to do is go to organized meetings that
05:41:27 are already happening.
05:41:28 So we'll go to the East Tampa meeting, we'll go to the
05:41:30 West Tampa meeting, different community meetings that are
05:41:33 happening, we'll go to those and we'll talk about the
05:41:35 action plan process.
05:41:37 And gather comments.
05:41:38 Those surveys are due by June 10th so we can incorporate
05:41:43 those comments into the action plan and we'll have this
05:41:45 all up on the web site on our page, which is
05:41:48 tampagov.net/HCD.
05:41:52 Anyone can make comments and we'll respond to those
05:41:55 comments and also include the responses in the final
05:41:58 document.
05:41:58 The survey has been the same survey, it's hard to see on
05:42:04 there.
05:42:04 But it pretty much goes back to what was in the
05:42:07 consolidated plan.
05:42:08 This is the last year of the Ross consolidated plan.
05:42:13 We'll be starting soon on the next consolidated plan.
05:42:17 We'll have a number of public meetings so we can find out
05:42:19 what are the needs in the community.
05:42:21 We have already talked about the need for affordable
05:42:23 housing and just trying to find creative ways to address
05:42:26 that.
05:42:26 And that is it.
05:42:29 Any questions?
05:42:30 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Any questions from Council?
05:42:32 For Ms. McCleary.
05:42:35 At this time if there's anyone that has any questions
05:42:37 concerning or comments concerning the presentation that
05:42:40 we just had, please come up and you will have three
05:42:43 minutes.
05:42:44 >> Great job.
05:42:47 >>MIKE SUAREZ: I had no idea there was going to be a
05:42:49 cheering section for you, ma'am.
05:42:51 [ Laughter ]
05:42:53 >>MIKE SUAREZ: I have a motion to close.
05:42:57 I have a second, motion to close by Mr. Maniscalco,
05:42:59 second from Mr. Cohen.
05:43:00 All in favor of that motion, please indicate by saying
05:43:02 aye.
05:43:02 Do we need to receive and file the report?
05:43:07 If I could get a motion on that.
05:43:09 I have a motion from Mr. Cohen, second from
05:43:11 Mr. Maniscalco.
05:43:11 All in favor of that motion to receive and file, please
05:43:14 indicate by saying aye.
05:43:14 Any opposed?
05:43:16 Okay.
05:43:17 Now we have public hearings now at 6:00 p.m.
05:43:20 We cannot open until that time.
05:43:22 That is a time certain, so we will go into recess until
05:43:25 6:00 p.m.
05:43:26 Thank you.
05:43:26 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Now called to order.
06:03:03 Roll call please.
06:03:04 [Roll Call]
06:03:05 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: Here.
06:03:07 >>YVONNE CAPIN: Present.
06:03:08 >>HARRY COHEN: Here.
06:03:09 >>GUIDO MANISCALCO: Here.
06:03:10 >>LISA MONTELIONE: Here.
06:03:12 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Here.
06:03:12 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Okay, we are going to go to items 5
06:03:16 through 8.
06:03:17 If I could ask someone to open items 5 through 8.
06:03:20 I have a motion from Ms. Montelione, second from
06:03:23 Mr. Cohen.
06:03:24 All in favor of that motion, please indicate by saying
06:03:25 aye.
06:03:25 If there is anyone that is here to speak on items 5
06:03:30 through 8, agenda items 5 through 8, please stand and be
06:03:35 sworn in at this time.
06:03:37 [Oath administered by Clerk]
06:03:38 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Thank you very much.
06:03:47 Staff?
06:03:50 5.
06:03:50 >> Joel Sousa, land development.
06:04:00 Next case is AB 2-15-22, current zoning is CI, commercial
06:04:07 intensive and current address is 2106 West Main Street.
06:04:10 Applicant name is Rob Morris.
06:04:12 The request to serve small venue beer, wine on premises
06:04:17 consumption only.
06:04:18 3,770 square feet inside and no outside, for a total of
06:04:25 3,770 square feet.
06:04:27 They have no parking and going to be requesting a waiver.
06:04:30 And operational hours are pursuant to chapter 14.
06:04:34 They're requesting two waivers.
06:04:36 Someone reduce the minimum distance separation between
06:04:38 other AB establishments from 250 feet to 112.
06:04:43 And to reduce the required parking spaces from 49 to
06:04:46 zero.
06:04:47 According to the applicant, the site is developed as one
06:04:51 story commercial building.
06:04:53 The proposed use of the property is a place of assembly,
06:04:56 a theater and retail sales.
06:04:57 The revised proposed AB sales area is 3,770 square feet
06:05:04 of interior space only.
06:05:05 The applicant has removed, has removed the use of any
06:05:09 outdoor area for AB sales for consumption and or storage.
06:05:13 If you remember this case is continued from February.
06:05:15 As of the date of this report, the active load has been
06:05:21 determined by the fire marshal's office to be 196
06:05:25 persons.
06:05:25 The site plan shows no off-street parking on the zoning
06:05:29 lot.
06:05:29 Required parking for the occupant load is 49 parking
06:05:32 spaces.
06:05:33 Site plan again states there will be no outside amplified
06:05:37 music after 11:00 p.m.
06:05:40 Hours of operation are consistent with chapter 14.
06:05:42 There are some site plan small changes required between
06:05:46 first and second reading, if Council is so inclined to
06:05:50 approve this application.
06:05:51 Consistent due to separation and parking requirements.
06:06:02 Transportation also finds it inconsistent with regard to
06:06:05 waiving the parking from 49 to zero.
06:06:07 Let me show you where the establishment of the place.
06:06:12 You can see this is the subject address.
06:06:19 This is North Howard Avenue.
06:06:20 This is the interstate 275.
06:06:22 This is a little bit north.
06:06:24 It's not too far from the construction services building.
06:06:28 This is the front facade of the building.
06:06:35 This is a view looking west on Main Street.
06:06:38 Here's a view looking east on Main Street.
06:06:43 And this is a small park right across the street.
06:06:47 It's mostly commercial up and down this area straight up
06:06:51 the street.
06:06:51 There's not much parking, most is on street if any at
06:06:55 all.
06:06:55 If there are any questions, applicant is also here.
06:07:01 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Any questions of staff before we go to the
06:07:03 applicant?
06:07:04 Okay.
06:07:04 Petitioner?
06:07:10 >> Robert Morris, 2106 west main street.
06:07:14 I think plans we have submitted is for 99.
06:07:17 >> The applicant is requesting to hold his occupancy to
06:07:28 99 as it's shown by and reviewed by the fire marshal,
06:07:31 it's 196 occupant load.
06:07:34 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Did you say 196?
06:07:36 >> 196.
06:07:37 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Thank you.
06:07:38 Please continue.
06:07:39 >> So we are requesting our beer and wine license for --
06:07:45 sorry, I was trying to get a letter from the association
06:07:48 up here too.
06:07:48 Theater space, I'm not sure if you guys have driven by.
06:07:59 We have parking permission to use the City of Tampa
06:08:02 parking on Albany, about 500 feet away.
06:08:05 About 30 spaces there.
06:08:06 We also have permission to use parking directly across
06:08:09 the street from Marvin Knight.
06:08:11 About 20 parking spaces there.
06:08:13 And on the corner of Albany and green street, we have
06:08:17 permission to park there as well.
06:08:19 That's an empty lot.
06:08:20 From the owner of that particular lot.
06:08:24 They are, will not -- while they give us permission to
06:08:28 use any time we want to empty land.
06:08:31 So we have about 60 spaces.
06:08:33 We are limited to 99 people.
06:08:34 We do not have our sprinkler system, so we have submitted
06:08:38 plans and working on that.
06:08:39 The city is waiting for if we can get a park waiver
06:08:42 because that's also a stipulation for our location as
06:08:45 well.
06:08:45 In order to get the change of use.
06:08:50 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Anything else?
06:08:51 >> That's it.
06:08:52 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Okay.
06:08:53 Any questions from Council for the petitioner on this
06:08:59 particular item?
06:09:00 If not, let us go to the public.
06:09:02 Is there anyone that would like to speak on item number
06:09:05 5, file AB 2-15-22.
06:09:09 Please come forward.
06:09:14 >> Good evening, chair, distinguished council, I'm
06:09:26 Reverend Gregory Lockett.
06:09:29 Advocate for many other things also.
06:09:32 Mostly as to, to see an improvement in our communities
06:09:38 with culture, moral values and seeing our youth to
06:09:43 develop.
06:09:44 This theater is -- I'm a retired chef and this is
06:09:50 something that is up scale that educates.
06:09:52 The doors, the venue doors are open for arts and crafts
06:09:56 to teach young people coming off the streets are welcome
06:10:00 to come in to develop their talents or whatever, which we
06:10:03 have some powerful directors and promoters from around
06:10:06 the country that, that is recognizing this talent to
06:10:12 develop these peoples skills and to let them move up
06:10:16 instead of just?
06:10:17 That area.
06:10:17 Our youth automatically is excited about the artwork, the
06:10:24 things to do, something to do.
06:10:25 As you might not know, I'm like they call me the street
06:10:29 grunt.
06:10:30 Okay, with the homeless coalition and everyone else come
06:10:33 to me to ask questions.
06:10:34 I'm out there on the front lines, I see what's going on.
06:10:39 West Tampa is not a place to me right now.
06:10:42 I want to get out of it but God is keeping me there.
06:10:45 That needs this help.
06:10:48 This theater has been placed there for a reason.
06:10:51 It's an upgrade.
06:10:54 It's going to bring things and move things out.
06:10:57 Bad things out.
06:10:58 It's going to make it shine.
06:11:00 I've been watching this organization, I even participated
06:11:06 and volunteered because it's something in my heart are to
06:11:08 restore the community values, the principles of life,
06:11:12 morals, the consequences of pranks and crimes in that
06:11:16 community.
06:11:17 Having the kid to pull their britches up, being someone
06:11:20 instead of hanging around the street watching the drunk
06:11:22 sitting around drinking and drinking.
06:11:24 This venue is a powerful venue to educate, to show
06:11:30 there's a different way in life.
06:11:32 Okay.
06:11:32 I see them doing everything they can, it's not for
06:11:36 profit, to generate funds because they need those funds
06:11:40 to keep these things going.
06:11:42 You understand?
06:11:43 So I support this organization.
06:11:44 I support the cause.
06:11:46 And my passion is that.
06:11:49 I don't know if ya'll remember, other organizations, but
06:11:54 this is what I fought for.
06:11:55 And maybe I was too early.
06:11:57 But it's here now.
06:11:58 I'm asking you to support this venue right now.
06:12:01 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Thank you, sir.
06:12:03 Is there anyone else in the public would like to make any
06:12:06 comments concerning number 5?
06:12:07 Please come forward.
06:12:08 Don't need to rails your hand.
06:12:10 Anyone that wants to come up and talk about this
06:12:12 particular item can Staub, if they're able, and come up
06:12:16 when you're called.
06:12:17 Yes, ma'am, please.
06:12:18 >> Briana Touchton, 2106 West Main Street, market
06:12:23 director and artist instructor of the space.
06:12:27 I was brought on to the space to run a monthly market.
06:12:31 I heard that the community was kind of down and out and
06:12:35 Robert came in with the space and we're trying to help
06:12:37 turn the community around.
06:12:38 And so as a local artist, my die was to bring something
06:12:44 there for children.
06:12:46 I'm actually from school to be an art teacher, for
06:12:48 elementary.
06:12:49 And so I brought in painting classes.
06:12:52 And we have been doing this now for about four months.
06:12:55 I teach painting classes, I where any the community from
06:12:57 outside in as well.
06:12:59 Children that want to come paint, I know a few of the
06:13:01 homeless members of the community have come and painted
06:13:04 with us.
06:13:05 Have a great time.
06:13:06 I would like to continue to be able to teach the children
06:13:09 in that area and bring art to that community.
06:13:12 I am from Pinellas County, where art is huge and when I
06:13:16 did come over to this side, I saw that the art in this
06:13:19 area was lacking.
06:13:20 And there is huge room for improvement in the arts in the
06:13:24 area.
06:13:25 And so file like that is my role in the space.
06:13:29 With teaching the painting classes.
06:13:32 I also run a monthly market calling the old West Tampa
06:13:35 market.
06:13:37 It is a monthly market.
06:13:38 Bring vendors in from all counties of Florida.
06:13:41 I have some coming from Tallahassee, for June.
06:13:44 She is bringing her home made desserts.
06:13:46 So I have vendors from soap makers, my art is there,
06:13:50 other artists, candle makers and things, I also have
06:13:54 opened it up to Old West Tampa, if anyone lives in Old
06:13:57 West Tampa, do I give them a table.
06:14:01 I give them my own table, my own tents to use.
06:14:05 They set up and sell their goods and whatever, they're
06:14:09 for churches literally right around us that, mine they
06:14:13 are crocheters and knitters and crafters and embrace the
06:14:18 market and it has been wonderful.
06:14:20 June will make our fourth market and it is going really,
06:14:24 really well.
06:14:24 But again, like Mr. Lockett said, the funds that we could
06:14:29 be gaining from the beer and wine license, not only I'd
06:14:34 be able to do that at adult classes, like a sip and
06:14:37 paint, we call it painting at the space.
06:14:40 But it's huge.
06:14:41 And I want to bring that here to this area.
06:14:45 And then those funds will be able to further be table to
06:14:48 give to the locals to come in and build a paint for free.
06:14:53 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Thank you.
06:14:54 Anyone necessary the public would like to comment on this
06:14:57 particular issue?
06:14:58 Sir?
06:15:00 >> Hello.
06:15:01 My name is James faro.
06:15:04 I live in the community.
06:15:06 I live at 2121 West Spruce Street.
06:15:08 I just want to say that I'm for this liquor license and I
06:15:14 hope guys can see how this can be, keep this theater
06:15:20 there and keep the area growing.
06:15:21 Thank you.
06:15:22 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Thank you, sir.
06:15:23 Anyone else in the public like to speak on this item?
06:15:26 Before we move to close, Mr. Miranda?
06:15:32 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: I'd like to have the city attorney
06:15:34 regarding alcohol come to the mic please.
06:15:36 I'm looking at five, six and seven, all on there.
06:15:43 And 6 and 7 stand out because they're AB 2s.
06:15:46 Can you explain to the public what the difference between
06:15:49 an AB 2 and what they're asking in 5 is?
06:16:07 >>REBECCA KERT: I'm sorry, I have the agenda in front of
06:16:09 me now.
06:16:09 And so.
06:16:12 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: In other words, this if I understand
06:16:14 it from the take, and the testimony, if we zone this the
06:16:19 property stays zoned alcohol forever.
06:16:23 >>REBECCA KERT: Yes, sir, that is correct.
06:16:25 They're asking for beer and wine on premise consumption
06:16:29 only in association with the small venue.
06:16:32 No other specific uses specified as I understand it.
06:16:36 Is that correct?
06:16:37 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: It's not accessory use to anything?
06:16:40 >>REBECCA KERT: That is correct.
06:16:41 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: Under the AB is an accessory, alcohol
06:16:44 is accessory to that product, whatever that product may
06:16:46 be.
06:16:46 And then if that product is washed away and it leaves, so
06:16:51 does the alcohol.
06:16:53 Unless the product comes back as the same one that they
06:16:56 sold it to someone else.
06:16:58 >>REBECCA KERT: Yes, that is correct.
06:16:59 If this was tied to a specific use, such as a retail
06:17:05 sales or something like that, alcohol would only be
06:17:07 allowed as long as there is, you know -- I'm not getting
06:17:12 my terminology right.
06:17:13 But as long as that other use was there -- this is tied
06:17:17 to a small venue.
06:17:19 It's not specific what it is.
06:17:23 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: Thank you, chairman.
06:17:25 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Any other questions of staff?
06:17:27 >> Forgot.
06:17:27 There's a letter from Macfarlane Park association if you
06:17:30 want to read that, in support.
06:17:33 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Mr. Morris, do you have any hard copies so
06:17:35 that we can read it without having to read it off your
06:17:38 phone?
06:17:41 [Inaudible]
06:17:45 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Have you already emailed it to us in the
06:17:48 past?
06:17:49 >> I don't think so, no.
06:17:50 Melissa Martin, West Tampa chamber, on the board, I was
06:17:55 just down there.
06:17:56 >>MIKE SUAREZ: If I could, are there any questions the
06:18:00 petitioner at this moment?
06:18:01 I have a question, Mr. Morris.
06:18:03 You obviously this is a continued public hearing.
06:18:06 If you recall, I think that the issues were parking at
06:18:10 the time.
06:18:11 Do you have -- you mentioned that the city has a lot that
06:18:15 you're allowed to park there?
06:18:16 >> Right.
06:18:17 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Do you have a contract with the city to
06:18:19 allow you there?
06:18:20 >> It's a public parking space and they would not --
06:18:23 >>MIKE SUAREZ: It's a pushing parking lot or on street
06:18:26 park?
06:18:27 >> It's public park I by the City of Tampa.
06:18:30 I thought it was included, I gave to it Gloria and
06:18:32 everything on Monday.
06:18:34 It's right on Albany street, across the street basically.
06:18:37 And it's public park.
06:18:39 Anybody can park there.
06:18:40 Since we don't really use it till after 5:00.
06:18:43 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Is it striped park?
06:18:45 >> Yes.
06:18:48 [Inaudible] he has no problems because he is there during
06:18:52 the day.
06:18:53 We had talked, they said they don't need it after 5:00.
06:18:55 Perfect, that's when we need it.
06:18:58 Friday, Saturday and Sunday are our main days.
06:19:02 Directly across the street, it's not a paved lot.
06:19:04 It's a dirt parking lot.
06:19:06 But that's always been for parking.
06:19:08 I have permission for that.
06:19:09 I paid him for.
06:19:10 >> Who owns that empty lot?
06:19:12 >> Marvin Knight.
06:19:14 I pay him for that.
06:19:16 >>MIKE SUAREZ: And in the public parking is how many
06:19:18 spaces?
06:19:19 >> Over 30.
06:19:20 There's 30, like striped parking, like you can actually
06:19:24 see it.
06:19:25 I wasn't counting the dirt.
06:19:26 Went out there and.
06:19:28 >>MIKE SUAREZ: And it can be used by anyone.
06:19:31 >> It's always empty.
06:19:32 Nobody ever uses it.
06:19:33 I called the City of Tampa, they said I could use it any
06:19:37 time I want to.
06:19:38 They won't do a lease because they're leasing it.
06:19:41 But it's public parking and it's there.
06:19:43 We have been using it and had no issues.
06:19:47 We only using, needing 99.
06:19:51 We're going to be 99 people.
06:19:52 We're not going, our sprinkler system, I can't do more
06:19:57 than 99 anyway.
06:19:58 That only requires 20 parking spaces.
06:20:00 That was where we were.
06:20:02 Initially was only asking for parking waiver for 20
06:20:05 spaces.
06:20:06 There's plenty on-street parking, like on-street parking
06:20:10 all the way down Main Street, down Albany and Howard.
06:20:13 Even public library has just across the street, there's
06:20:17 public parking there.
06:20:18 So we haven't had any issues with parking at all.
06:20:21 City of Tampa, the police department's there, we have had
06:20:26 a couple shows.
06:20:28 They're always there.
06:20:29 When we have a show and they sit out front, the street is
06:20:32 the main thing.
06:20:34 There's nobody on the street, it's cleaned up.
06:20:37 Since we have been there, no crime no issues.
06:20:39 We invite anybody from the street.
06:20:42 Anybody is allowed to come in as long as they're not
06:20:45 drinking or on any drugs.
06:20:47 Any painting classes, any of that stuff, they're always
06:20:51 welcome in.
06:20:51 We have had success.
06:20:52 A lot of success with that with we haven't had any issues
06:20:56 with anybody there.
06:20:56 Not one problem to the building.
06:20:58 The neighborhood has been fantastic.
06:20:59 So, they're excited because everybody, you know, it's a
06:21:03 cool venue.
06:21:04 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Mr. Miranda?
06:21:05 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: I would support this in another
06:21:07 circumstances but I can't support it how it is.
06:21:09 There are no signed leases.
06:21:11 And let me say this.
06:21:12 This city is going to grow by leaps and bounds.
06:21:16 Not because I'm saying it.
06:21:18 Statistics prove that Hillsborough County gets 425 new
06:21:21 residents by the year 2025.
06:21:24 There will be no empty lots available.
06:21:26 Believe me when I tell you.
06:21:27 It's coming to the point that although you have parking,
06:21:32 people say they're nice and will do it.
06:21:34 What happens if they say tomorrow, you can't use it?
06:21:37 >> I can answer that question four.
06:21:38 Unfortunately, at the moment there are a couple parking
06:21:41 lots and land that I am trying to acquire and purchase.
06:21:44 I know.
06:21:46 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: I'm not here to debate the gentleman.
06:21:48 I just want to say this you have great intentions.
06:21:50 If you really wanted to tie it to something, tie it to
06:21:53 the AB 2 where if you leave, the alcohol dries up.
06:21:57 But you don't want to do that.
06:21:59 >> I definitely.
06:22:00 I didn't know that was an option.
06:22:03 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: Your petition doesn't say that.
06:22:05 I'm not trying to tell what you to do, sir.
06:22:07 >> I understand that.
06:22:09 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: There's no lease assigned.
06:22:10 So even in short-term, what's going to happen?
06:22:13 I don't know.
06:22:14 Look what happened to some areas of the city that started
06:22:17 this way, how they are today.
06:22:19 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Mr. Cohen?
06:22:21 >>HARRY COHEN: The difficulty that we have in these
06:22:23 situations is that everything may be perfect today.
06:22:26 But if these things go away, the approval still stands.
06:22:32 And I think that a suggestion was made of a way to
06:22:40 ameliorate the problem.
06:22:41 Which is to tie the alcohol to the use.
06:22:45 That to me is a smart, is a smart option.
06:22:52 >> We had talked about that first time, you had mentioned
06:22:55 that.
06:22:55 And N that meeting I think we were discussing it and
06:22:59 somebody said it would stick with it forever.
06:23:01 If I'd known that before, I would change that for sure.
06:23:06 >> Maybe Miss Kert can help us out.
06:23:10 >>REBECCA KERT: What you've done in the past and some
06:23:12 situations is you've tied it to a particular use.
06:23:15 I'm not the expert.
06:23:18 Joel could probably speak on this better than I could.
06:23:22 But one potential would be a place of assembly.
06:23:24 I was trying to pull up the definition on my phone, but
06:23:27 it's not working.
06:23:28 So, but a place of assembly is generally a theater, a
06:23:33 place with shows, that type of thing.
06:23:37 That would be one option.
06:23:38 And then if that went away, it couldn't just open up as a
06:23:42 bar or that type of use or are a pool hall or anything
06:23:45 like that.
06:23:46 Would have to be some sort of thing where there are shows
06:23:51 and other things.
06:23:52 I'd feel more comfortable if I could pull up the
06:23:55 definition.
06:23:55 But I that I is what you all are talking about.
06:23:57 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Ms. Montelione?
06:23:58 >>LISA MONTELIONE: Thank you.
06:23:59 So, we have a neighborhood that is, I would say maybe not
06:24:09 exactly the vibrant community we want it to be.
06:24:11 Or that the residents would like it to be.
06:24:14 And we had that in Seminole Heights.
06:24:17 It was a similar scenario.
06:24:19 Was a place that, you know, not a lot of people wanted to
06:24:22 go because it wasn't a lot of things to do.
06:24:25 And some business owners took a chance, took the risk,
06:24:33 opened up and now it's a place where everybody wants to
06:24:37 be and I saw 83° media story that compared it, that
06:24:43 Seminole Heights is to Tampa what Brooklyn is to
06:24:46 Manhattan.
06:24:47 And you know, it starts with people like the gentleman
06:24:51 standing before us.
06:24:52 It starts with people who are going to take that risk and
06:24:55 be the first ones to go into a neighborhood where nobody
06:24:58 else wants to be.
06:24:59 And bring options of entertainment and bring options of
06:25:04 community services that people do on their volunteer
06:25:08 time.
06:25:09 And not because, you know, or even if they're getting a
06:25:13 small salary, it's not because they want to make money.
06:25:16 It's because their heart is with the community and trying
06:25:19 to bring a bright spot in a dark place.
06:25:22 So, you know, there are always opportunities in the
06:25:30 future that if there is a problem with this venue, we
06:25:37 have code violations.
06:25:39 We have ways of correcting whatever wrongs they're
06:25:45 committing.
06:25:47 I had hopes that we were going to have some kind of
06:25:50 public transit, but after last night's vote, I'm not sure
06:25:54 that's any time soon.
06:25:55 But you know, this is a community, the patrons of this
06:26:00 theater and these programs live in the neighborhood.
06:26:03 And since it is a community that is lower on the
06:26:09 socioeconomic scale, a lot of them don't drive.
06:26:12 They're walking or they're using bicycles.
06:26:14 So, if we continue to stop people like you and others
06:26:20 from taking that risk and going into neighborhoods and
06:26:26 reimagining these spaces and historic buildings that we
06:26:29 have, that we never built back in the day when those were
06:26:33 built, we didn't have as many cars on the road.
06:26:35 Yes, we didn't have as many people either, but we have to
06:26:38 start somewhere.
06:26:39 And it was something that we were talking about earlier
06:26:42 this morning with our code changes.
06:26:45 That, you know, having the ability to change the
06:26:52 regulations for the small businesses and risk takers and
06:26:56 entrepreneurs to, to re-use an empty vacant, you know,
06:27:05 dull maybe even sometimes boarded-up space and bring it
06:27:08 back to life is what we need to do for a community.
06:27:12 And all the go-around about how parking is going to be,
06:27:16 you know, a problem in the future, well, we're talking
06:27:19 about now.
06:27:19 He may do well.
06:27:20 He may fail.
06:27:23 And if he does well, that's great and if parking is a
06:27:25 problem, then that's a good problem to have because that
06:27:28 means he's successful.
06:27:30 And you know, I'm in support.
06:27:33 I was in support I think the first time you came.
06:27:36 I think that we need more people out there like you who
06:27:39 are willing to take that risk in these kinds of
06:27:42 neighborhoods.
06:27:43 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Ms. Capin?
06:27:46 >>YVONNE CAPIN: I totally agree with everything that was
06:27:47 said there.
06:27:48 You know, my late husband and I looked at this building
06:27:51 in 2006.
06:27:53 10 years ago.
06:27:54 And it stayed vacant until you, you came and decided to
06:28:02 invest.
06:28:03 That's how Hyde Park happened.
06:28:05 That's how Seminole Heights happened.
06:28:06 I don't want to stifle that.
06:28:08 I don't want the message to be out this that small
06:28:11 businesses are going to have a hard time when they come
06:28:14 to City Council doing exactly what we want them to do,
06:28:19 which is revitalize these neighborhoods.
06:28:21 That neighborhood is right across the river from downtown
06:28:25 Tampa.
06:28:25 We could ride our bikes very easily from here to there.
06:28:31 So, I also, I am in support.
06:28:36 I don't see any issues with it.
06:28:41 I know what you've done and it's very brave.
06:28:44 That investment really brave because we looked at that
06:28:48 building and decided against it.
06:28:50 So I know what you have done there.
06:28:52 I'm very familiar with it.
06:28:53 I'm also in support.
06:28:58 Just want to put that up there.
06:29:00 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Mr. Maniscalco?
06:29:01 >>GUIDO MANISCALCO: It's interesting that my colleague
06:29:03 says that because a few years ago before getting elected,
06:29:06 before anything, a friend of mine and I looked at that
06:29:09 building.
06:29:09 [ Laughter ]
06:29:10 >>GUIDO MANISCALCO: And we had this vision of creating
06:29:13 this art center and basically have this catalyst that
06:29:19 would trigger growth and inspire people to come back to
06:29:23 that neighborhood.
06:29:24 And having seen what you've done, you've done everything
06:29:26 we wanted to do.
06:29:27 Same vision and it's good.
06:29:29 I think it's going to be successful and I understand the
06:29:31 concerns about alcoholic sales and some of the parking,
06:29:36 but you know, you're looking at, finding a way to solve
06:29:41 that.
06:29:41 And of course as Councilwoman Montelione said, if you're
06:29:45 busy and you have a park issue, it's because you're
06:29:47 successful.
06:29:48 Something like this, it's a cultural asset to the
06:29:50 neighborhood.
06:29:50 That's a term that Councilwoman Capin likes and it's
06:29:54 true.
06:29:54 But that's our own little Ybor City in West Tampa.
06:29:58 That was the downtown, is a downtown West Tampa.
06:30:01 But what you're doing is positive, it's going to be good
06:30:04 for the neighborhood and I hope that it spurs more
06:30:07 development and growth along the same lines.
06:30:09 So I'm in support.
06:30:11 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Mr. Cohen?
06:30:12 >>HARRY COHEN: Well, I don't disagree with anything
06:30:14 you're all saying.
06:30:16 I'm a little bit perplexed as to why, if there is a
06:30:21 solution that we can find, that we'll actually tie this
06:30:24 to the use, why that's such, why that's such a bad idea.
06:30:29 I mean we do have a risk that this parking is going to go
06:30:34 away.
06:30:35 And it's a real risk.
06:30:37 And I'm not suggesting that we should vote against the
06:30:40 application.
06:30:40 What I'm suggesting or what I think was being suggested
06:30:43 was that perhaps there's a way to have some assurances
06:30:47 that if the use changes, that it will have to come back
06:30:51 here to be reevaluated that it won't just last into
06:30:55 perpetuity and I don't quite see where the, where the
06:30:59 conflict is between the two things.
06:31:02 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Ms. Montelione?
06:31:03 >>LISA MONTELIONE: Without a sprinkler system, from what
06:31:05 I understand, there's never going to be the opportunity
06:31:09 for this to be occupied by more people than what the fire
06:31:14 marshal approves now and that's 99.
06:31:17 So, even if he, you know -- if somebody else moves in
06:31:24 there, I'm not going to use the other term because
06:31:26 fingers crossed it's going to work.
06:31:28 If somebody else moves in there, they're still going to
06:31:32 have the same issue.
06:31:33 Fire marshal is not going to approve permits for any
06:31:36 other use because there's are no sprinkler system.
06:31:39 So they'll have to upgrade the building and if we're only
06:31:41 approving for 99, would they -- they wouldn't have to
06:31:45 come back but they would have to make major improvements
06:31:49 in order to -- and it's very expensive, if you've ever
06:31:54 installed a sprinkler system.
06:31:56 They'd have to -- I'm not supposed to testify.
06:31:59 So, I don't know if staff can answer this.
06:32:05 But I can ask a question.
06:32:07 I know Mr. Shelby, ears are starting to burn over there.
06:32:12 So, if they were to upgrade the space to put in a
06:32:18 sprinkler system, do you know what, what other
06:32:25 improvements they would have to make in order to make
06:32:28 that sprinkler system operational?
06:32:32 >> I'll try to answer it another way.
06:32:35 He's trying to limit himself because he doesn't want to
06:32:39 sprinkle.
06:32:40 Once you get around a hundred people, 102, sprinkling the
06:32:44 building becomes mandatory.
06:32:46 So, we reviewed for capacity of the structure and the
06:32:51 land is 196, right way it sits right now.
06:32:54 That's the way the fire marshal looks at it.
06:32:57 He's requesting to hold himself to 99.
06:32:59 >>LISA MONTELIONE: But Mr. Sousa, it's only 196 if the
06:33:03 building is sprinkled.
06:33:04 >> No, has nothing to do with sprinkling.
06:33:06 Has to do with the use of space.
06:33:08 Fire marshal looks at gross space right now.
06:33:11 >>LISA MONTELIONE: Right.
06:33:12 Gross space.
06:33:12 Can you fit how many, that many people in there but
06:33:15 they're not going to grant you, they're not going to sign
06:33:18 off, fire marshal is not going to sign off on that permit
06:33:21 unless it's sprinkled.
06:33:23 >> Not necessarily.
06:33:24 A lot of times they'll go to the applicant and say go get
06:33:30 your permits.
06:33:31 >>MIKE SUAREZ: If I could, if I may, let us keep the
06:33:33 issue at hand as opposed to that.
06:33:36 If it's okay.
06:33:41 [multiple speakers]
06:33:44 >>LISA MONTELIONE: Point I was trying to make, if we had
06:33:46 somebody from permitting or fire marshal, I'm saying that
06:33:49 the 99 and the parking related to 99 or the parking not
06:33:54 related to 99, if they're going to bike or walk or
06:33:57 whatever, is pretty much going to be what anybody is
06:34:03 going to do from my understanding.
06:34:06 I mean what have you been told?
06:34:10 I can't testify.
06:34:11 You testify.
06:34:12 You tell me.
06:34:13 >> I'm currently flying for change of use.
06:34:16 I'm not moving forward with that if I get the parking
06:34:19 waiver because that is a requirement for them.
06:34:21 I am only allowed to have 99 people in there.
06:34:25 It can hold more than that.
06:34:26 I need a sprinkler system in order to carry more than 99
06:34:29 people.
06:34:29 >>LISA MONTELIONE: Who told you that?
06:34:31 >> That's the fire marshal.
06:34:32 Because I've already been for the -- I have the plans, if
06:34:36 you approve the parking waiver, then can I move forward.
06:34:38 But I'm only limited to 99 people.
06:34:40 I can't have any more than that.
06:34:43 >>LISA MONTELIONE: And have you investigated the expense
06:34:45 of putting in that sprinkler system.
06:34:47 >> Yes, it's a couple hundred thousand dollars.
06:34:49 I can't afford it.
06:34:51 >>LISA MONTELIONE: And that in itself is a limiting
06:34:54 factor to what anybody can do there, not just you.
06:34:57 >> Correct.
06:34:58 >>LISA MONTELIONE: Okay, thank you.
06:34:59 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Ms. Capin?
06:35:00 >>YVONNE CAPIN: Here's the thing.
06:35:01 You're limiting yourself to 99?
06:35:03 Put it on the site plan.
06:35:06 >> It should be on there because we went through it.
06:35:08 We turned in on Monday to Gloria.
06:35:13 >>YVONNE CAPIN: That's pretty -- we have an ordinance
06:35:15 where you have to post it.
06:35:17 I don't know that they do that, the administration does
06:35:19 whatever.
06:35:20 But we do have an ordinance.
06:35:27 So it's on the site plan.
06:35:29 Therefore, that's solved.
06:35:31 That is all you can have.
06:35:33 >> In the space itself, the way we have it set up with
06:35:36 the theater, because it's not just a standard where
06:35:39 you're sitting down and everything is in front.
06:35:41 You.
06:35:41 The stages are all over the place.
06:35:43 You have chairs around.
06:35:44 So you can't fit more than a hundred people in there.
06:35:47 >>YVONNE CAPIN: Here's the thing.
06:35:48 If you were to get $200,000 and decide to put the
06:35:50 sprinkler, you'd have to come back.
06:35:54 With that site plans, is that correct or not?
06:35:57 Tell me.
06:36:02 >> Where are we at now?
06:36:04 [ Laughter ]
06:36:05 >>YVONNE CAPIN: We are at 97 people.
06:36:07 I want to know if it changes to the, he puts the
06:36:11 sprinkler system and it's on the site plan 97, does he
06:36:15 not have to come back to require more people to be?
06:36:21 >> If he changes the use of the property, if he requires
06:36:23 more parking, yes, east supposed to come through.
06:36:29 >>YVONNE CAPIN: So, 190 whatever is how many parking
06:36:32 spaces?
06:36:33 We have it here?
06:36:35 >> For 196 is the occupant load for the fire marshal.
06:36:39 Based on that number, 49 parking spaces are required.
06:36:43 >>YVONNE CAPIN: Okay.
06:36:45 >>MIKE SUAREZ: If I can get back to the case at hand,
06:36:47 which is that there is a waiver for the parking.
06:36:50 According to the site plan, the waiver would still have
06:36:52 to be zero.
06:36:53 They're required to have 24 spaces.
06:36:56 So, Mr. Sousa, thank you.
06:36:57 Mr. Cohen, off question.
06:36:59 >>HARRY COHEN: I wasn't asking anything about the
06:37:01 sprinkler.
06:37:02 I mean, I'm -- here's the issue.
06:37:05 You're going from 49 spaces required to zero.
06:37:09 So, what I'm asking, Mr. Sousa, if the use changes, if it
06:37:18 closes and someone wants to make it into a bar that can
06:37:22 fit 99 people, they don't have to come back here,
06:37:25 correct?
06:37:26 >> That would be true.
06:37:27 >>HARRY COHEN: Okay.
06:37:28 And if they decided to sprinkle it with the $200,000 that
06:37:33 magically came out of the sky, would they have to come
06:37:37 back here or not?
06:37:38 >> No, they would not.
06:37:40 >>HARRY COHEN: No, they would not.
06:37:41 So, the issue I'm having, I'm trying to work through
06:37:46 this, is we're approving this forever with zero parking
06:37:50 spaces and I'm just saying I think we should tie it to
06:37:54 something so that if the use changes in the future it has
06:37:58 to come back.
06:37:59 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Ms. Montelione, before you go forward, I
06:38:02 think that everyone has spoken about this so far.
06:38:05 Except for me.
06:38:06 Okay.
06:38:07 Let's get back to tissue at hand.
06:38:09 We're not talking about sprinkler systems and we're not
06:38:12 talking about occupancy load.
06:38:13 We're talking about the waivers that are at hand
06:38:15 currently.
06:38:16 The waivers that are required are the reduction from,
06:38:20 separation from other AB sales establishments from
06:38:23 250 feet to 112 feet.
06:38:25 49 spaces reduction on parking to zero.
06:38:29 Sir, hang on a second.
06:38:32 No, let's go back to where we were going.
06:38:35 There is on the site plan 24.
06:38:37 You're still at zero parking provided.
06:38:41 >> Correct.
06:38:41 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Okay.
06:38:42 That's the point.
06:38:43 The waiver is what really is controlling it.
06:38:45 Your site plan is what's controlling it.
06:38:47 Doesn't matter if you're going to do something in the
06:38:49 future or not.
06:38:50 The issue is, as Mr. Cohen so eloquently said, which is
06:38:54 tying the, any use currently and future to what happens
06:38:59 with the land.
06:39:00 You did not come here and we did not see and I think we
06:39:04 asked you earlier if you had any hard Combs for us
06:39:08 concerns your leases for your parking.
06:39:11 >> I do not have a least.
06:39:12 I thought I told you that.
06:39:13 >>MIKE SUAREZ: You do have a lease you said you rent from
06:39:16 Mr. ?
06:39:17 >> He will not put me in a lease.
06:39:18 I just pay him for the parking lot.
06:39:20 They want no liability there.
06:39:22 It's a different kind of crowd that owns these
06:39:24 properties.
06:39:25 It's been very difficult to get that.
06:39:27 >>MIKE SUAREZ: So you are paying someone money and there
06:39:29 is no transaction other than him saying it's allowed.
06:39:33 >> Correct.
06:39:33 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Okay.
06:39:34 So that is an issue for us and some of us, not all of us,
06:39:38 but for some of us in terms of not having that as
06:39:42 somewhat enforcement mechanism for us.
06:39:44 That is the issue at hand.
06:39:46 So, are there any other questions that deal with tissue
06:39:48 at hand currently so we can get past the sprinkler
06:39:51 system.
06:39:52 We already know what's on the site plan.
06:39:54 >>LISA MONTELIONE: I mean this is relevant.
06:39:56 I mean, the idea that it's on the site plan, as Ms. Capin
06:40:01 noted before, it is on the site plan for 97 occupant
06:40:05 load.
06:40:05 He's putting this site plan on the record as part of the
06:40:08 approval.
06:40:09 If that changes from anything other than 97, he has to
06:40:15 come back, or whoever has the property has to come back.
06:40:18 It's on the site plan for 97.
06:40:20 If the site plan was silent to that, then they wouldn't
06:40:25 have to come back.
06:40:25 >>MIKE SUAREZ: If I could, let's try and take that for
06:40:28 landing.
06:40:28 All the points were made, here's the landing for you.
06:40:32 Go ahead, Ms. Capin.
06:40:34 >>YVONNE CAPIN: The occupancy does refer to the parking.
06:40:37 I beg to differ on that one.
06:40:44 If there's no further questions, I move to close.
06:40:47 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Before we go forward, petitioner, is there
06:40:50 anything you'd like to tell us about this particular site
06:40:54 plan, this particular plan before we close this hearing
06:40:58 and make a decision to vote?
06:41:00 Is there any changes you want to make or any questions,
06:41:03 anything snells.
06:41:03 >> The only other thing is, so we are on the occupancy
06:41:07 level, back 92 which requires a park waiver for 20
06:41:11 spaces.
06:41:12 Not the 49.
06:41:13 That's what I wanted to be clear on.
06:41:17 And there is, just remember --
06:41:20 >>MIKE SUAREZ: If I could, sir, just for the record,
06:41:22 according to your site plan it says 24 spaces.
06:41:25 >> Is it 24?
06:41:26 >>MIKE SUAREZ: On the site plan.
06:41:27 That's all I'm read.
06:41:29 >> So 24.
06:41:30 Then the other thing is, this is the city, you can park
06:41:33 up and down the street, people do it every day in front
06:41:36 of their shops.
06:41:37 There is no other parking in the future, I don't
06:41:39 understand how any business would ever be successful on a
06:41:42 street or how would you ever open any restaurant, any
06:41:45 business on that street.
06:41:46 It would just sit there there's, there are certain lots
06:41:49 empty for housing and stuff.
06:41:50 There are potential also for parking lots in the future
06:41:53 maybe the city can purchase.
06:41:54 As of right now, any business that wants to open up
06:41:57 there, there is nothing for them other than on-street
06:41:59 parking.
06:42:00 Whether it's hindering me or anybody else, it will just
06:42:03 fit destitute like the way it is now boarded up.
06:42:06 I don't understand how else you can open up a business
06:42:08 there without a park, especially when city all up and
06:42:11 down the road.
06:42:12 You can go all the way down to the river to parent unless
06:42:16 the city wants to put in tolls, it's free parking.
06:42:21 When I was asking for the waiver, it's on-street parking
06:42:24 up and down main street all the way up to MacDill I
06:42:28 think.
06:42:29 I just want to let you know there is plenty of parking.
06:42:32 I also got off street parking to accommodate some of the
06:42:36 requirements.
06:42:39 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Is that your presentation, sir?
06:42:41 >> That's it.
06:42:43 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Mr. Sousa, I'm not sure why you were stang
06:42:45 up.
06:42:48 >> Point of order.
06:42:48 The site plan that he's referring to that was submitted
06:42:51 on April 22nd has not been reviewed by staff yet.
06:42:55 The site plan in front of you that would give our staff
06:42:58 reports was done in February.
06:43:00 So the site plan that he's referring to, staff knows not
06:43:05 of.
06:43:06 >> It's dated January.
06:43:08 >>LISA MONTELIONE: This site plan we were given is dated,
06:43:10 the last revision on this site plan is January 28th, 16.
06:43:15 So what I'm talking about and what we're discussing is
06:43:17 what's in front of us.
06:43:19 That's January 28th, 16.
06:43:24 >>MIKE SUAREZ: That's correct.
06:43:26 >> Referring to a site plan with information --
06:43:30 >>MIKE SUAREZ: We are referring to which the site plan
06:43:32 you provided.
06:43:33 >>LISA MONTELIONE: All the information -- [all talking at
06:43:36 once]
06:43:39 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Mr. Shelby?
06:43:41 >>MARTIN SHELBY: The question then comes in, might be a
06:43:43 question for Miss Kert, raises the question that Council
06:43:46 is approving the site plan that you have before you,
06:43:49 which means that the site plan that he turned in whenever
06:43:52 that was to Mr. Sousa is not the consideration.
06:43:55 As long as that's clear for the record and Council
06:43:57 understands that.
06:43:58 Thank you.
06:43:59 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Sir, you are done, I assume.
06:44:02 What is the pleasure of Council?
06:44:04 >> Move to close.
06:44:05 >> Second.
06:44:05 >>MIKE SUAREZ: I have a motion to close from Ms. Capin,
06:44:08 second from Ms. Montelione.
06:44:09 All those in favor please indicate by saying aye.
06:44:11 Any opposed?
06:44:13 What is the pleasure of Council, who wants to take this?
06:44:23 >> I move an ordinance -- I move an ordinance being -- an
06:44:32 ordinance approving special use permit S-2 for alcoholic
06:44:36 beverage sales, small venue on premises consumption only
06:44:39 and making lawful the sale and beer and wine at or from
06:44:43 that certain lot, plot or tract of land located at
06:44:45 located 2106 West Main Street, Tampa, Florida as more
06:44:48 particularly described in section two, that all
06:44:51 ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict are
06:44:53 repealed, providing an effective date.
06:44:54 >> Second.
06:44:55 >>MIKE SUAREZ: I have a motion from Ms. Montelione,
06:44:57 second from Mr. Maniscalco.
06:44:59 All those in favor of that motion, please indicate by
06:45:01 saying aye.
06:45:02 All those opposed?
06:45:08 >>THE CLERK: Motion failed with Reddick --
06:45:12 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Do roll call to make sure we got it right.
06:45:17 >>THE CLERK: The motion did not carry.
06:45:19 Reddick was absent and Miranda, Suarez and Cohen voted
06:45:23 no.
06:45:24 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Correct.
06:45:24 Okay, Mr. Shelby, if you could report what our rules are
06:45:27 concerning ties.
06:45:30 >>MARTIN SHELBY: Comes back to the next regular meeting.
06:45:33 If a quasi-judicial motion fails to receive at least four
06:45:41 votes, the motion fails.
06:45:42 And if another motion in order is not made, the public
06:45:45 hearing shall be automatically reopened and continued to
06:45:48 a time certain at the next regularly scheduled Council
06:45:51 meeting.
06:45:52 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Mr. Morris, did you understand that?
06:45:57 >> [Inaudible]
06:45:58 >>MIKE SUAREZ: At our next regular meeting.
06:46:00 I wanted him to read the rule for a particular reason.
06:46:05 >>LISA MONTELIONE: Mr. Suarez, I want to point out we are
06:46:08 still only going to be 3-3 because Mr. Reddick is not
06:46:11 going to be back till the 19th.
06:46:13 >> I just wanted to make sure he understood the rules at
06:46:16 our next regular meeting.
06:46:17 Thank you very much in terms of what is going to happen.
06:46:19 So when we come back, until we have a full board, we're
06:46:23 going to be still a hung jury, so to speak.
06:46:25 So when that comes in, it will be after the 19th and as I
06:46:29 recall from earlier today, you were going to be gone from
06:46:33 the 20th through the 26th.
06:46:35 Am I correct, sir?
06:46:36 30th.
06:46:37 Excuse me.
06:46:38 To the 30th.
06:46:39 So it would probably have to be our next regular meeting
06:46:42 in June.
06:46:43 [all talking at once]
06:46:54 >>MIKE SUAREZ: So the 19th, if Mr. Reddick is here at
06:46:56 that time, that will be the first regular scheduled
06:46:59 meeting.
06:47:00 Mr. Shelby?
06:47:02 >>MARTIN SHELBY: So then, Council, just for the purposes
06:47:04 of the notice, your rules state the next regular Council
06:47:09 meeting that is May 5th.
06:47:11 So I would ask you just continue this then to may 19th by
06:47:14 motion, knowing that there is no motion on the floor with
06:47:17 the intention of having a time certain, I believe it
06:47:21 would be 10:30, would that be correct, Mr. Clerk?
06:47:25 And then that way there is a notice train that everybody
06:47:29 is aware of.
06:47:31 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Mr. Miranda?
06:47:34 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: [Inaudible] the May 19th, year 2016,
06:47:40 at 10:30 in the morning.
06:47:42 >> Second.
06:47:43 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Okay, I have a motion from Mr. Miranda,
06:47:46 second from Mr. Maniscalco.
06:47:48 All in favor please indicate by saying aye.
06:47:49 Any opposed?
06:47:50 Thank you.
06:47:50 May 19, 10:30 a.m.
06:47:55 Thank you.
06:47:56 We're up to number 6.
06:47:57 Item number 6.
06:47:58 Before we begin, there were several people that walked in
06:48:01 after the beginning of the first one.
06:48:04 Any of those folks that walked in who are going to speak
06:48:07 on item number 6, 7 or 8, please rise and be sworn in
06:48:12 before you speak.
06:48:13 Those that have not been sworn previously.
06:48:17 [Oath administered by Clerk]
06:48:18 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Thank you very much.
06:48:24 Item number 6, AB 2-16-05, Mr. Sousa.
06:48:29 >>JOEL SOUSA: Next case, AB 216-05, property address is
06:48:41 6701, 6707 North Florida Avenue.
06:48:44 Current zoning is SHCI, Seminole Heights commercial
06:48:47 intensive.
06:48:49 Applicant name Elizabeth Graham.
06:48:50 The request is for small venue, beer, wine, liquor on
06:48:54 premises consumption and package sales off site
06:48:57 consumption.
06:48:57 The AB sales area is 4,810 square feet inside, 1,912 feet
06:49:06 square feet outside for a total of 6,722 square feet.
06:49:11 Parking space is 26 with 17 compact, one ADA space, four
06:49:17 motorcycle and four bike parking racks.
06:49:19 AB sales hours are Sunday through Saturday, 11:00 a.m. to
06:49:25 3:00 a.m.
06:49:25 According to the applicant, application submitted the
06:49:30 site is developed as a small shopping center.
06:49:33 The proposed renovations to an existing building
06:49:36 including 3,110 square feet restaurant and bar, 950
06:49:42 square feet retail bar wine shop and 750 square foot ice
06:49:48 cream shop.
06:49:48 Proposed AB sales area is 408,010 square feet interior
06:49:52 space, 1,912 outdoor with total again 6,722.
06:49:57 The proposed occupancy for the restaurant is 99 persons.
06:50:02 The written shop occupancy is 44 persons and the ice
06:50:06 cream shop will have ten seats.
06:50:08 The total required parking is 29 spaces.
06:50:12 25% reduced to re-use of an existing building pursuant to
06:50:17 table 27 to 11.
06:50:19 26 off-site parking spaces are providing for the 17, as I
06:50:24 described before.
06:50:25 The site plan indicated the hours of the operation again,
06:50:30 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 a.m., 7 days a week.
06:50:33 Site plan states no amplified music sound in any outdoor
06:50:37 area.
06:50:37 They're requesting a number of waivers.
06:50:41 Waivers to reduce the required distance separation
06:50:43 between AB sales areas to residential uses from 250 to
06:50:47 21 feet.
06:50:48 To allow AB sales area within bicycle parking area on
06:50:52 south side of the building and to increase the percentage
06:50:54 of compact spaces from 65 to a hundred percent.
06:50:58 Reduce the number of parking spaces from 29 to 26.
06:51:01 The applicant fails to comply with separation
06:51:05 requirements, therefore we find, staff finds it
06:51:07 inconsistent.
06:51:08 Transportation finds it inconsistent due to a 10%
06:51:11 reduction in the parking.
06:51:13 Let me show sow photographs for the site.
06:51:16 The overhead.
06:51:20 This is Florida Avenue.
06:51:22 This is the site right here.
06:51:24 This is the front facade recently done of the building.
06:51:32 This is the northside of the subject property.
06:51:35 This is looking south on Florida Avenue.
06:51:39 South side of the project, looking east on Knollwood.
06:51:46 And this is on Florida Avenue looking north.
06:51:50 Project has been reviewed and approved by the urban
06:51:56 design to Seminole Heights overlay district.
06:51:59 Staff is here in case you have any questions.
06:52:01 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Any questions of staff by Council right
06:52:02 now?
06:52:03 Petitioner?
06:52:03 >> Nina McGucken Alvarez, I represent the petition.
06:52:14 I have a packet for you.
06:52:16 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Ma'am, before you start, our timing,
06:52:32 Ms. Capin has a question.
06:52:34 >>YVONNE CAPIN: Of staff.
06:52:35 One of the things you said consistent with chapter 14.
06:52:38 Then the hours are 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 a.m.
06:52:40 That's not consistent with chapter 14.
06:52:42 >> The consistent chapter was the previous AB application
06:52:48 that they had before on the site.
06:52:50 That was a package sales.
06:52:51 Beer and wine.
06:52:53 That was on the site previously.
06:52:56 Before they re-did this property, there was an existing
06:52:59 little shopping center that had a convenience store with
06:53:02 package sales.
06:53:02 That was convenient at the time with chapter three.
06:53:07 We converted over to consistent with chapter 14.
06:53:10 Now they're requesting one new application to replace
06:53:12 that one.
06:53:13 If that answers the question.
06:53:18 >>YVONNE CAPIN: Okay.
06:53:18 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 a.m., five days a week and then Sunday
06:53:22 is 11 to 3.
06:53:23 That's chapter 14.
06:53:24 But they want 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 a.m. 7 days a week.
06:53:28 >> Yes, ma'am.
06:53:30 >>YVONNE CAPIN: All right.
06:53:31 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Thank you.
06:53:33 Proceed, petitioner.
06:53:34 >> Again, Nina McGucken Alvarez, 1320 9th Avenue, Tampa,
06:53:38 33605.
06:53:39 I am the attorney for the Heights Property LLC.
06:53:42 Elizabeth Graham the applicant is the wife, daughter and
06:53:44 sister of the owners of this property and she's also the
06:53:47 authorized agent.
06:53:48 Again, the property is located 6701 to 6707 North
06:53:52 Florida.
06:53:53 She will address you also.
06:53:54 Heights Property LLC is requesting a special use permit
06:53:58 for the sale of beer, wine and liquor on premises and for
06:54:01 package consumption off premises.
06:54:03 As we just spoke about, my client is requesting that
06:54:07 sales hours be from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 a.m. 7 days per
06:54:11 week.
06:54:11 I will show you what's in the first page of your packet.
06:54:16 You can see from this map that there are already a number
06:54:23 of existing businesses in the area that are permitted to
06:54:26 be open until 3:00 a.m.
06:54:27 On the top of your packet, on the top of the picture is
06:54:30 the names and they correspond with numbers.
06:54:33 So can you see one, two, three, four.
06:54:36 Those are existing businesses that are currently open
06:54:40 until 3:00 a.m. in Seminole Heights.
06:54:43 We anticipate tonight that you will hear from members of
06:54:47 the public that do not support these later hours.
06:54:50 I don't think that they will tell you they're against
06:54:52 having a restaurant, a wine shop and ice cream store.
06:54:55 I think they simply don't like the hours that are being
06:54:58 requested.
06:54:59 But the city as you know has already determined that
06:55:01 3:00 a.m. is an appropriate time for a business that
06:55:05 sells alcohol beverages to close.
06:55:07 My client is asking you tonight to not be competitively
06:55:11 disadvantaged by being required are to close at early
06:55:14 hours.
06:55:14 I think that you will also hear from people in the
06:55:17 neighborhood tonight that be they don't traditional hours
06:55:20 and they'd like a place where they can enjoy a meal and
06:55:23 alcoholic beverage during later hours.
06:55:25 The owners purchased this building in 2014.
06:55:28 At the time of push it was a strip center.
06:55:31 It contained a pawn shop, a barbershop, a worship center
06:55:35 that was converted from a convenience store that sold
06:55:37 alcoholic beverages until 3:00 a.m.
06:55:39 I'll show you some before pictures so that you can see
06:55:44 the dramatic transformation.
06:55:45 This is the building before.
06:55:51 And you can see it less than desirable, I would say.
06:56:02 Parking lot's not in great condition either.
06:56:05 And part of this property is actually currently zoned for
06:56:11 package sales with the sale hours that are consistent
06:56:14 with chapter 14.
06:56:16 I'd like to show you the beautiful building now.
06:56:21 This is what the building looks like currently.
06:56:31 As you can see from the pictures, Heights property has
06:56:52 completely redeveloped this entire space, land and the
06:56:56 structure.
06:56:56 They've remodeled the building and they've spared no
06:57:00 expense to ensure that what they're calling the Graham
06:57:02 building complements the neighborhood historical see doo
06:57:08 he sign and brings value to the neighborhood.
06:57:10 We believe the new neighborhoods in this district will be
06:57:13 excellent addition.
06:57:14 It will include new upscale restaurant, wine beer and
06:57:18 centrally store which will sell fine wines and this third
06:57:21 space will be an ice cream shop.
06:57:22 As can you see from the site plan, restaurant will have a
06:57:25 small out door area that will hold a few tables so people
06:57:27 can sit outside.
06:57:28 The front walkway will have a few tables so people can
06:57:31 enjoy wine and dessert in Seminole Heights ambience.
06:57:35 You can also see from the site plan, no amplified sound
06:57:38 in outdoor areas.
06:57:39 Additionally, the site plan complied with city code
06:57:43 regarding sales hours.
06:57:44 Use is compatible with the businesses allowing for the
06:57:46 avenue.
06:57:47 Use conforms with the Tampa comprehensive plan.
06:57:49 The use will not encourage incompatible uses.
06:57:53 We hope it will encourage other restaurants and family
06:57:56 friendly establishments.
06:57:58 It complies with ingress and lighting utilities ands
06:58:02 drainage.
06:58:03 Heights property is tonight asking for four waivers.
06:58:05 First waiver is from 250 feet to 21 for the sale of
06:58:10 alcoholic beverages.
06:58:12 Since there is residential property located directly
06:58:14 behind the building, and in the block east of Florida
06:58:18 Avenue.
06:58:19 We do not believe this restaurant, wine bar and retail
06:58:21 store will adversely impact any of the neighbors or
06:58:24 businesses in Seminole Heights but will only add to it.
06:58:27 In support of this project we have signed statements from
06:58:33 neighbors, they're included in your packet.
06:58:35 I've also included letters of support from the president
06:58:38 of the Heights urban core chamber which was formerly the
06:58:41 business guild of Seminole Heights.
06:58:43 Also a letter from the president of southeast Seminole
06:58:45 Heights.
06:58:46 There's letters of support from other businesses and my
06:58:50 clients also set up an online petition that, you'll see
06:58:54 the results are included in that.
06:58:55 And as of this afternoon, it had 349 supporters.
06:58:58 That included all of that for you to see.
06:59:01 My client Ms. Graham has gone door-to-door to meet her
06:59:05 neighbors and many residents have voiced support.
06:59:08 She's provided her personal cell phone number so they can
06:59:11 call her should they have any concern.
06:59:13 Like to show you a map so can you see this is Florida
06:59:28 Avenue.
06:59:29 The area in pink that's striped, that's the site.
06:59:33 And all of the residential located to the east and also
06:59:38 the restaurants down, those people have all expressed
06:59:43 support for this application.
06:59:47 And you can see that obviously the neighbors closest to
06:59:51 the property have supported it.
06:59:54 Obviously, as have many others.
06:59:55 The second waiver that we're requesting tonight is to
07:00:01 allow alcohol sales in the bicycle parking area on the
07:00:03 south side of the building.
07:00:05 The reason for this request is that the wine shop would
07:00:07 like to be able to host wine tastings events outdoors and
07:00:12 if so the idea is that tenant could set up tents along
07:00:16 the side of the building for such events.
07:00:18 The third and fourth waivers are for parking.
07:00:20 The first parking waiver is to increase the percentage of
07:00:23 compact parking spaces to a hundred percent.
07:00:29 This hopefully would encourage the neighbors to come in
07:00:34 smaller cars and there's also motorcycle racks, biking
07:00:38 racks and we're hoping and thinking based on this sort of
07:00:41 new history of Seminole Heights, that people will ride
07:00:44 their bikes and walk.
07:00:45 We are also asking for waiver to reduce the number of
07:00:48 parking spaces from 29 to 26.
07:00:51 So that's a request for three spaces.
07:00:55 As the site plan indicates, the current redeveloped
07:00:57 parking lot includes angled spaces to maximize parking.
07:01:02 Also motorcycle stops in the parking lot and bicycle
07:01:04 parking on the south and east side of the building.
07:01:07 My client actually today secured a lease for parking
07:01:12 spaces from a neighbor.
07:01:14 And she's hopeful that these three businesses will be so
07:01:17 successful that she needs those spots.
07:01:19 At this time I'd like to introduce to you Miss Graham.
07:01:26 She is a former Seminole Heights resident.
07:01:28 She works in Seminole Heights and is the current business
07:01:30 owner.
07:01:31 I'm going to show you, because know she's going to talk
07:01:33 about it.
07:01:34 I'm going to show you two piece of property that she
07:01:36 currently owns on Florida Avenue.
07:01:38 She will talk about them.
07:01:43 But what I think the most important thing about Miss
07:01:45 Graham is that she loves the neighborhood.
07:01:49 She's done a lot for the neighborhood already.
07:01:50 She's trying to do more.
07:01:53 And I want her to tell you about herself, her family's
07:01:56 vision and why they picked Seminole Heights for this
07:01:58 project.
07:02:01 >> Hello.
07:02:06 My name is Elizabeth Graham.
07:02:09 I'm going to read my speech, okay?
07:02:12 My name is Elizabeth Graham.
07:02:14 I reside 505, Tampa, Florida.
07:02:19 I moved to Seminole Heights in the 90s and bought my
07:02:22 first house in 1992.
07:02:24 Before Seminole Heights had been designated a historical
07:02:28 neighborhood.
07:02:29 At that time, I rented space in the salon in South Tampa.
07:02:32 I love living in Seminole Heights but found myself
07:02:36 traveling to go shopping to get salon services, to go out
07:02:41 to eat, so decided it was time for me to open up my own
07:02:46 shop.
07:02:47 I opened up, I opened Seminole Heights first salon and
07:02:52 day spa and I opened up their first gourmet restaurant.
07:02:55 When looking for property, I looked all, I looked at all
07:03:01 the used cars lots because even today, car lots are
07:03:05 predominant in Seminole Heights.
07:03:08 Since I was involved in the neighborhood association, I
07:03:11 presented the idea of converting a car lot into a day spa
07:03:15 and gourmet restaurant.
07:03:16 My fellow neighbor at the time was Mr. Steve Gauntman.
07:03:21 He told me about the continuous expanding Hillsborough
07:03:26 Avenue and that there were three bungalows that were
07:03:28 going to be demolished.
07:03:29 He asked me to save them.
07:03:30 I love the charm of old bungalows and felt the importance
07:03:34 to save them and put together a cumbersome bid package
07:03:37 and though, through my hard work, I won the bid of two
07:03:41 houses.
07:03:42 I was young and inexperienced, but I was excited for the
07:03:46 opportunity to do something great for my neighborhood and
07:03:49 offer people who live there a shot where they can get
07:03:53 their hair done in a nice place to go and eat.
07:03:55 I always envisioned the charming businesses up and down
07:04:00 Florida Avenue where you could walk from your home, get
07:04:04 something good to eat, you could go shopping, you can get
07:04:07 services, you can hang out, have a drink and go and walk
07:04:12 home.
07:04:12 I have been involved with OSHNA for years, I am currently
07:04:18 still an active member in 2005, I along with two others
07:04:23 founded the business guild of Seminole Heights which
07:04:25 helps other businesses in our area open in our beautiful
07:04:28 neighborhood.
07:04:29 I love my neighborhood.
07:04:32 Save and restore two historical bungalows, recontribute
07:04:37 them and had them designated back to the historical
07:04:42 standards I have won several awards for my restorations
07:04:47 and businesses that I have opened in Seminole Heights.
07:04:50 I had dedicated and invested years of my life, my hard
07:04:55 earned money into this neighborhood.
07:04:56 I wanted to continue my vision so when opportunity
07:05:01 presented itself, my family bought another piece of
07:05:05 property.
07:05:06 In November of 2014, we purchased an eyesore strip center
07:05:12 that housed a pawn shop, barbershop that allegedly sold
07:05:16 drugs, a worship center and a check cashing store.
07:05:20 In an undesirable convenience store.
07:05:22 It had been robbed several times by gun point and the bar
07:05:26 better shop hits windows shot out twice.
07:05:28 I cleaned up this property, tore off the facade, off the
07:05:35 front and had the building, off the front of the building
07:05:38 and built a gorgeous full brick facade building getting
07:05:41 inspiration from the neighborhood school.
07:05:43 I went overboard are with my remodel but I really wanted
07:05:48 to improve that side of the business corridor and be able
07:05:51 to attract up scale responsible business owners.
07:05:53 I thought this would allow my community three more places
07:05:58 to come to and enjoy.
07:06:00 The Graham building has five rental spaces in it.
07:06:04 However, I'm currently, my current plans are to put three
07:06:07 tenants to occupy that space.
07:06:09 I have approached, I had been approached by liquor
07:06:14 stores, convenience stores, hookah lounges, cell phone
07:06:19 stores and a number of businesses along the same lines
07:06:22 but I know that this is not what my community or what is
07:06:25 best for Seminole Heights.
07:06:27 I decided to recruit other businesses from other areas
07:06:33 and I know the neighborhood would wanted.
07:06:35 I currently have two leases and one pending for three
07:06:38 spaces.
07:06:39 I recruited and have leased one space to the revolution
07:06:44 ice cream parlor in Brandon, Florida.
07:06:47 They area family owned business that makes home made ice
07:06:50 cream and uses only the best ingredients.
07:06:52 They had proven to be successful and this will be their
07:06:59 second location.
07:07:00 Second space is Seminole Heights city wine bar.
07:07:04 The wine shop is owned by Jayme Kosar, who owns Ybor City
07:07:09 wine bar.
07:07:10 This would be also her second location.
07:07:12 The remaining spaces of the Graham building, we had
07:07:15 recruited a chef from California who is a part of group
07:07:19 of restaurants who had restaurants all over the state.
07:07:22 The Graham building will be, would be a destination
07:07:26 building.
07:07:27 We have, we have appetizers, wine, beer, cocktails,
07:07:33 dinners and desserts.
07:07:34 Or if you work late, we have a place to come and eat and
07:07:37 wind down after a long day of work simply a place to
07:07:41 enjoy in your neighborhood.
07:07:43 And walk home safely.
07:07:44 Where you would be proud to bring your family, your
07:07:49 friends, your co-workers to enjoy an evening out late if
07:07:54 you choose to.
07:07:55 [Inaudible] upscale restaurant industry.
07:08:00 It would be counter intuitive for our thriving
07:08:03 neighborhood to lose such opportunities to support a
07:08:08 growing restaurant district.
07:08:09 I'm sorry.
07:08:12 >> It would be -- I'm sorry.
07:08:22 I'm so nervous.
07:08:23 I really shouldn't be.
07:08:27 The leases are pending and I don't want to scare off
07:08:30 great businesses.
07:08:31 They will leave and they will go to other areas, our
07:08:36 neighborhood really wants.
07:08:38 City code allows it.
07:08:39 I am asking for the ability for the tenants to be 11 to
07:08:43 7:00.
07:08:45 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Miss Graham, maybe your next sentence will
07:08:47 be your last one so we can move forward.
07:08:49 Your time is up.
07:08:50 >> I don't know where I'm at.
07:08:56 I've lived here for 27 years.
07:09:00 Been involved 27 years, been there for 17.
07:09:02 This is a great cause.
07:09:05 We will be put at a disadvantage with the people that
07:09:09 already have it.
07:09:10 We would appreciate definitely your support.
07:09:13 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Thank you, Ms. Graham.
07:09:15 Petitioner, your time is up currently.
07:09:18 Mr. Miranda?
07:09:19 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: Apparently only thing I'm going to
07:09:21 say, when she looked at barbershop she looked at me.
07:09:24 [ Laughter ]
07:09:25 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: I was six months old.
07:09:27 >>MIKE SUAREZ: They do shave at barbershops.
07:09:30 Any questions from Council of petitioner?
07:09:35 Okay.
07:09:36 Is there anyone in the public that would like to speak on
07:09:40 item number 6, AB 2-16-05, please stand up, line up over
07:09:46 here if you could on either side of the room and be ready
07:09:49 to speak.
07:09:51 Ma'am, you are first.
07:09:53 Please do it quietly so we can hear the speaker.
07:09:58 >> Thank you.
07:09:59 Well, good evening, Council.
07:10:01 My name is Jayme Kosar, 2552 Ybor City, city, Tampa.
07:10:08 I think it's important for me to introduce myself so that
07:10:12 you can get a clear picture and solid understanding of
07:10:15 the nature of the businesses and the caliber that are
07:10:18 going to be presented in the grand plaza.
07:10:20 I would like to speak produce three different
07:10:23 perspectives.
07:10:24 I've actually spoken in front.
07:10:25 You before when I received my 3:00 a.m. wet zoning for my
07:10:30 Ybor City wine bar location.
07:10:32 The three different perspectives I would like to discuss
07:10:34 with you is first as a court of the master certified
07:10:38 sommelier.
07:10:40 Secondarily as the owner of the Ybor City wine bar and
07:10:40 most recently the owner of the Seminole Heights city wine
07:10:45 bar.
07:10:46 And third as a former board member of YCDC, the Ybor City
07:10:51 Development Council.
07:10:53 I think it helps explain our business model, at least
07:10:55 regarding the Seminole Heights city wine bar.
07:10:58 We're upscale wine bar that features over 200 wines by
07:11:02 the glass.
07:11:02 Over 100 craft beers and wine accrued from us.
07:11:05 Small place.
07:11:06 Food pairings, cheese boards, brie wedges, hummus,
07:11:09 chicken salad and gourmet desserts.
07:11:11 This is a very extensive by the glass programs.
07:11:15 We are probably one of the largest ones in the country.
07:11:18 Our closest competitor here is the wonderful Bern's at
07:11:24 150 wines by the glass.
07:11:27 So I'm just trying to give you the scope of what we're
07:11:27 doing here.
07:11:28 I am also the founder of the Ybor City wine society,
07:11:30 which is an educational wine group.
07:11:32 I'm also already started the Seminole Heights city wine
07:11:36 society.
07:11:36 As a business owner, we are expanding and bringing the
07:11:44 culture of wine to Tampa.
07:11:45 First with Ybor City and now with Seminole Heights.
07:11:48 After three successful years in Ybor City where we were
07:11:51 zoned for 3:00 a.m., we have selected a beautiful
07:11:54 community of Seminole Heights with James Beard quality
07:11:58 restaurants that we're hoping to add to.
07:12:00 I feel if we are not zoned until 3:00 a.m., we would be
07:12:03 at a severe unfair competitive advantage.
07:12:06 The wine bar is a complement to these restaurants.
07:12:09 This is why I'm taking a little bit of time to focus on
07:12:12 wine so you get why we're asking for 3:00 a.m.
07:12:15 We are not only the aperitif but we are the digestif.
07:12:18 What does that mean?
07:12:18 That means after you're done enjoying your wonderful
07:12:22 dinner at I believe Rooster & The Till closes at
07:12:24 1:00 a.m., or all the other establishments at whatever
07:12:27 time they close, you should be able to come and have your
07:12:30 digestif, your port, your sherry, your gourmet dessert,
07:12:32 et cetera.
07:12:33 Closing any earlier will not give -- wine cannot be
07:12:36 rushed.
07:12:37 Thirdly and very quickly, it cannot.
07:12:40 As former Ybor City board member, I respect your time.
07:12:47 I could've very easily brought dozens of business owners
07:12:49 all over the City of Tampa, Ybor City, Seminole Heights,
07:12:53 that are allowed as per city code until 3:00 a.m. and
07:12:58 could give you the specifics as why it would be
07:13:01 competitive disadvantage.
07:13:02 But lastly, all I would like to say to the city of and
07:13:05 community of Seminole Heights regarding this decision
07:13:07 it's about growth and change in a positive direction and
07:13:10 I think we're going to do that for you.
07:13:12 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Thank you.
07:13:13 Appreciate it.
07:13:13 Right-hand side.
07:13:14 Before you go --
07:13:20 >>YVONNE CAPIN: It's 3:00 a.m., 3:00 a.m., 3:00 a.m.,
07:13:22 3:00 a.m.
07:13:23 Okay, chapter 14, which was what it was previously, is
07:13:27 3:00 a.m.
07:13:28 >> Yes, ma'am.
07:13:29 >>YVONNE CAPIN: So why is 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 a.m. Monday
07:13:32 through Saturday and 11 to 3:00 on, 3:00 a.m. on Sunday?
07:13:40 Why the change to 11:00 a.m.?
07:13:42 Why not stay consistent with chapter 14?
07:13:46 >> Excellent question.
07:13:47 I would defer to our legal.
07:13:48 >>MIKE SUAREZ: I was going to say I don't think she would
07:13:50 be the one to answer that question.
07:13:53 >> Maybe I speak to one thing.
07:13:55 When we started this whole leasing and looking it was
07:13:58 zoned off premise 3:00 a.m.
07:13:59 That's part of the reason we decided to go there.
07:14:02 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Do you want staff to answer that question?
07:14:06 >>YVONNE CAPIN: I want to understand why if it was
07:14:09 already chapter 14, which has the hours 7:00 a.m. to
07:14:13 3:00 a.m., six days a week, 11 to 3:00 a.m. on Sunday,
07:14:19 why go and put it 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 a.m.?
07:14:23 I don't understand that.
07:14:26 >> Only part of the property is currently zoned.
07:14:28 Not the entire property.
07:14:30 So number one we're asking to zone the entire property.
07:14:32 >>MIKE SUAREZ: For the record, restate your name.
07:14:35 >> Nina McGucken Alvarez.
07:14:37 We are asking to zone the entire building, number one.
07:14:40 I don't think -- we're actually asking for less hours
07:14:43 than the code allows.
07:14:45 I don't think that anybody plans to be open at 7:00 a.m.
07:14:52 >>MIKE SUAREZ: May we proceed, Miss Capin?
07:14:55 >>YVONNE CAPIN: Yes.
07:14:55 I'll later I'll tell you what, why.
07:15:06 >> My name is Michael Palizzi.
07:15:08 I'm here in support of the Graham building.
07:15:11 I work for a liquor and wine distributor and deal with
07:15:14 many restaurants and establishments throughout Tampa.
07:15:16 We notice when neighborhoods have restaurants and they
07:15:18 have establishments for people wines, that the
07:15:22 neighborhood tend to do better.
07:15:24 I also lived in Seminole Heights from 2011 up until about
07:15:27 six months ago.
07:15:28 And I've seen the neighborhood definitely come up.
07:15:31 Guys have talked about this change in the neighborhood
07:15:33 and Seminole Heights kind of success story in Tampa.
07:15:36 You were trying to get the zoning for the other gentleman
07:15:40 to pull up West Tampa, which I think would be great.
07:15:43 It seems like a lot of the restaurants are opening up in
07:15:45 Seminole Heights and they're all getting the 3:00 a.m.
07:15:48 Just seems like there's some push-back coming in their
07:15:51 direction or getting that you have to realize like 60% of
07:15:55 restaurants when they open go out of bills in their first
07:15:58 three years.
07:15:58 These are people that are chasing their dreams and trying
07:16:01 to add value to their communities and create something.
07:16:04 It's already happening in Seminole Heights but don't get
07:16:07 complacent.
07:16:08 Don't think just because it's already successful that it
07:16:11 doesn't need to keep on growing.
07:16:12 People are fickle and plenty of places have great
07:16:15 honeymoon periods.
07:16:18 So we really need the support for the neighborhood and
07:16:21 for the industry and I find it hard to believe anybody
07:16:25 living in that neighborhood would not like to have more
07:16:27 options and property values.
07:16:29 Some people might hear that 3:00 a.m. and think there's
07:16:31 going to be clubs and parties going on.
07:16:33 It's not the case.
07:16:34 Truth is, those people are probably asleep by 10:00 any
07:16:38 way.
07:16:38 [ Laughter ]
07:16:39 >> I speak in support of them.
07:16:42 I hope you guys try to support that neighborhood's gloat
07:16:45 and Tampa as a food destination.
07:16:47 Thank you.
07:16:48 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Thank you.
07:16:48 Sir?
07:16:50 >> Good evening.
07:16:51 Dr. Reece Darham, 807 West Braddock Street.
07:16:56 I am in support of Elizabeth Graham's endeavor.
07:16:59 I am going to address two issues.
07:17:01 I've known Miss Graham now for 12 plus years and I was
07:17:04 involved with her when she was looking up Bungalow
07:17:08 Bistro, which is now The Refinery.
07:17:11 I remember being in this same place where a lot of people
07:17:15 where are upset she was bringing in such establishment in
07:17:19 Seminole Heights.
07:17:19 Many people being upset that potentially was liquor
07:17:22 sales, that the neighborhood would be going down the
07:17:24 proverbial tubes.
07:17:26 I think we have pretty much established that that's not
07:17:29 the case that's happened in Seminole Heights.
07:17:31 And thank you very much to Mrs. Graham for making sure
07:17:34 that Seminole Heights has actually continued to improve.
07:17:38 The second issue I will address, I'm a professor at the
07:17:41 University of Tampa, and I'm not here to lecture you on
07:17:44 gentrification.
07:17:45 However, what the efforts of many of the businesses on
07:17:49 Florida Avenue are doing just that.
07:17:51 They're gentrifying Seminole Heights and the research and
07:17:55 the evidence is very, very clear.
07:17:56 This does a tremendous amount, not only for commercial
07:18:00 property values and for safety and security in the
07:18:04 neighborhood, it also increases private property values.
07:18:07 So, from all scopes, this is definitely a very good
07:18:11 endeavor and I think it's very important are that this
07:18:14 Council does agree to a 3:00 a.m. license.
07:18:18 That is standard in the area because this will encourage
07:18:22 future business that will further gentrify Seminole
07:18:26 Heights.
07:18:26 Thank you.
07:18:27 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Ma'am?
07:18:29 >> Good evening.
07:18:32 My name is Dana Phelps.
07:18:35 For the past 29 years I have resided at 906 west Henry
07:18:40 avenue.
07:18:40 Walking distance to the Graham building.
07:18:43 Interestingly enough, Councilwoman Montelione when you he
07:18:49 said somebody had to stick their neck out and somebody
07:18:52 who take that chance, it was Elizabeth.
07:18:55 The only restaurant we had was the front porch and they
07:18:58 were struggling.
07:18:59 Elizabeth and her family opened the Bungalow Bistro.
07:19:02 It became a success.
07:19:04 They sold to The Refinery, where the owner and chef is
07:19:07 currently a James Beard award winner.
07:19:10 Then Ella's open.
07:19:13 Now the gates are open.
07:19:15 My properties have tripled in value.
07:19:17 I have a property now that I'm proud for my friends to
07:19:20 come to.
07:19:21 I have renters for my rental properties that are stellar.
07:19:26 Wonderful, wonderful people.
07:19:28 These are good neighbors.
07:19:30 They have proven to be good neighbors and they're
07:19:34 responsible.
07:19:34 They have their name, their family name on the building.
07:19:38 Please approve this tonight.
07:19:40 Thank you.
07:19:41 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Thank you, ma'am.
07:19:42 Left-hand side, ma'am.
07:19:46 >> Hello.
07:19:47 My name is Sara Blacklidge.
07:19:49 I reside at 705 East Patterson Street in Seminole
07:19:52 Heights.
07:19:53 I both live and work in Seminole Heights.
07:19:55 I moved to Seminole Heights three years ago after eating
07:19:59 at The Refinery.
07:19:59 Coming from cookie cutter Wesley Chapel, I love the
07:20:05 atmosphere of Seminole Heights.
07:20:06 After three months of commuting, I decided to look for a
07:20:09 more local position.
07:20:10 Forever beautiful was the first and only salon I applied
07:20:14 at.
07:20:14 Once I stepped inside, I knew I had to work there.
07:20:17 That was two and a half years ago.
07:20:19 Since then, I've absolutely fallen in love with this
07:20:22 community.
07:20:23 I've seen everything Elizabeth has done for Seminole
07:20:25 Heights in just the past few years that I've been here.
07:20:28 How much passion, personal time and work she has put into
07:20:31 this project.
07:20:32 She's done amazing job on this building and it's no
07:20:35 surprise these top class tenants want to be a mart of
07:20:38 what she's created.
07:20:39 As a young professional who works late, I can't wait to
07:20:42 have more walkable options to go to.
07:20:44 I earn my money here and I'd like to return the money
07:20:47 back into the small businesses and responsible business
07:20:50 owners within Seminole Heights.
07:20:51 As a member of OSHNA, I do not agree with their 1:00 a.m.
07:20:57 policy and in full support of granting the Graham
07:20:59 building the hours per city code that has already been
07:21:02 established within the community.
07:21:03 I frequently stay out till 3:00 a.m. and want more places
07:21:06 to go closer to home instead of having to go to Ybor or
07:21:10 downtown.
07:21:10 Again, I'm in full support and I hope you are too.
07:21:14 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Thank you.
07:21:15 Sir?
07:21:17 Why.
07:21:18 >> My name is Stephen Lydle.
07:21:20 322 West Gibbons Avenue, Tampa, Florida, 33603.
07:21:24 Also a member of the south Seminole Heights Civic
07:21:26 Association board.
07:21:27 While I don't represent them here today, I do represent a
07:21:31 change demographic in Seminole Heights.
07:21:33 Young professionals that are moving to the area and are
07:21:35 looking for places to live and walk and have a walkable
07:21:40 area.
07:21:41 What that means is that we need places that are not used
07:21:45 car lots, which can I guarantee I will never use in
07:21:49 Seminole Heights.
07:21:50 But a restaurant, ice cream shop, I will use in Seminole
07:21:55 Heights.
07:21:56 There's a resurgence in our neighborhood.
07:21:58 You know, I think that the walkable cities, you'll hear
07:22:02 things probably tonight about we don't want our city, we
07:22:05 don't want Seminole Heights to be like the horror on
07:22:07 Howard, I'll call it, because people compare Howard
07:22:10 Avenue all the time to what's going to happen to us if we
07:22:13 do 3:00 a.m.
07:22:13 They compare to Ybor City.
07:22:15 And although I don't believe that we'll ever be like
07:22:17 that, we're set up very differently.
07:22:20 If we're going to be like anything, it will be like the
07:22:22 fourth street corridor in St. Pete.
07:22:23 That has plenty of commercial corridor right there with
07:22:26 residential behind it.
07:22:27 I also think tonight you'll probably hear about a survey
07:22:30 that was put out by old Seminole Heights.
07:22:32 While I think it's commendable they reached out to the
07:22:35 neighborhood and tried to find out what their opinion is,
07:22:37 I think what you'll find, you can't use that survey.
07:22:41 Survey is corrupted because you can take it multiple
07:22:44 times and I know people that have taken it multiple
07:22:47 times.
07:22:47 So any information you get from that, you cannot use that
07:22:52 information.
07:22:52 Just like one person can only vote for you the, one
07:22:54 person can only vote for this so you guys have to take
07:22:58 that into consideration.
07:22:58 I know Elizabeth working with south Seminole Heights.
07:23:01 She's been nothing but a great business owner.
07:23:04 Live very close to her are other two businesses are.
07:23:07 I see the vitalization she's made within the shopping
07:23:10 center.
07:23:10 I think if we're going to take the chance and start
07:23:13 moving forward, we need to empower local business owners
07:23:16 who have shown that they're going to be doing this
07:23:19 responsibly.
07:23:20 She's done that.
07:23:20 She's shown what she's done here.
07:23:22 So I just want you guys to support her and understand
07:23:25 where we're coming from.
07:23:26 Understand the demographic is changing in Seminole
07:23:28 Heights and that we do support 3:00 a.m.
07:23:31 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Thank you.
07:23:32 Ma'am?
07:23:35 >> Thank you, Councilmembers for this time.
07:23:38 I am a resident of Seminole Heights.
07:23:40 My name is Michelle Sanburg.
07:23:42 4107 North Central Avenue.
07:23:44 I am a single mom.
07:23:45 My daughter goes to Hillsborough High School.
07:23:47 I am proud to live in the neighborhood live in.
07:23:49 I love it there.
07:23:51 It is full of passionate people.
07:23:53 I know Jayme Kosar extremely well.
07:23:56 She is a passionate woman.
07:23:58 Think it is unfair to have different rules for different
07:24:00 people in Seminole Heights.
07:24:02 To have one restaurant, okay, you can stay till 3:00 and
07:24:05 others till 1:00.
07:24:07 Seems a little odd to me and a little conflicted.
07:24:10 I want to keep it short and sweet.
07:24:13 We're not a ruckus neighborhood.
07:24:15 I don't see drunk people wandering around.
07:24:18 I don't see half naked girls.
07:24:20 I'm happy about this.
07:24:21 My daughter has to walk this neighborhood too.
07:24:23 You know?
07:24:24 So, I just, I like the businesses that are coming into
07:24:28 the community for us.
07:24:29 I love the ice cream shop idea.
07:24:31 Love more restaurants.
07:24:32 I think it's important to build up Seminole Heights with
07:24:35 these things and not restrict people.
07:24:37 So, that's basically the gist of what I wanted to say and
07:24:41 I hope you guys really take that into consideration.
07:24:43 Thank you for your time again.
07:24:45 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Thank you.
07:24:46 Ma'am?
07:24:48 >> Good afternoon, Lois Kessler, 6814 North River Shore
07:24:53 Drive.
07:24:54 I've only been in the area for like four years.
07:24:57 I built a home on the river and I love it.
07:24:59 But one of the things I notice, I came from Temple
07:25:01 Terrace, driving down Florida Avenue and seeing so many
07:25:06 car lots and seeing so men 7-Elevens and so many not
07:25:11 taken care of buildings.
07:25:13 And I was so excited when I saw the Graham building being
07:25:16 erected.
07:25:17 It's beautiful.
07:25:18 You could tell it's spent a lot of time trying to figure
07:25:22 out what would be good for the communities.
07:25:23 And I'm in support of the request that they're asking
07:25:27 right now to be open to 3:00 a.m.
07:25:29 It's very important quality of life.
07:25:31 This is not affecting children's lives.
07:25:33 This is affecting adults.
07:25:36 Adults ride their bicycles.
07:25:39 This is not something that is, is a fad.
07:25:44 This is the future for Seminole Heights.
07:25:46 And Seminole Heights needs change and you said something
07:25:50 beautiful.
07:25:50 Not Manhattan, but Brooklyn.
07:25:52 Seminole Heights might not be south Tampa, it might not
07:25:55 be Hyde Park but it's coming on its own and needs
07:25:58 personality, needs the support from you as Council people
07:26:01 to help us.
07:26:03 And thank you for letting me have time to talk.
07:26:09 >> Good evening.
07:26:10 My name is Ashley Meek.
07:26:12 I'm a resident of South Seminole Heights, 101 West Hilda
07:26:17 Street.
07:26:17 It is my pleasure to support as a Seminole Heights
07:26:20 resident and local business owner Graham building's
07:26:23 3:00 a.m. wet zoning.
07:26:25 I'm excited for this beautiful transformed plaza and for
07:26:28 opportunities it offers our local small business owners.
07:26:31 Residents and tourists.
07:26:33 As a resident of Seminole Heights I am excited for the
07:26:37 projects like this to add walkability to my neighborhood.
07:26:41 This is the main reason for my family buying in the
07:26:44 neighborhood this past year.
07:26:45 As a local business owner, I hope that you vote in favor
07:26:51 of this building's 3:00 a.m. wet zoning and allow the
07:26:54 businesses occupying Graham building to operate at
07:26:57 optimal success.
07:26:58 By allowing them to compete with all the other
07:27:02 establishments in our area that currently have a
07:27:04 3:00 a.m. zoning.
07:27:05 The Graham building tenants deserve every opportunity to
07:27:09 be successful in their industry while providing for their
07:27:11 family.
07:27:12 They cannot be at an immediate disadvantage with the
07:27:15 other restaurants in the area that are open until
07:27:18 3:00 a.m.
07:27:19 I vote for Graham building's 3:00 a.m. wet zoning,
07:27:23 support the growth of Tampa's commercial corridor and a
07:27:26 brighter future for Tampa's urban core and its residents.
07:27:29 I hope you all support Graham building tonight.
07:27:34 I live close to her, her other buildings and I'm in full
07:27:38 support of it and hope you are as well.
07:27:40 Thank you.
07:27:41 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Sir?
07:27:42 >> My name is Kevin herein.
07:27:46 I live at 16 north River Shore Drive, within walking
07:27:50 distance of the Graham building.
07:27:52 My wife and I frequent the restaurants in the Seminole
07:27:56 Heights area and excited about being able to walk to the
07:27:59 proposed business.
07:27:59 I've seen the concept and I am very encouraged by this
07:28:03 business that is coming and I grew up in Tampa and in the
07:28:08 70s, Hyde Park was not a place you'd go in at night.
07:28:12 It was crime ridden and very run down and look at the
07:28:15 property values now.
07:28:17 Seminole Heights in the 80s, I avoided.
07:28:20 But now we're business owners.
07:28:22 I mean, property owners in Seminole Heights and very
07:28:26 encouraged by the development when drive on Florida
07:28:28 Avenue from MLK north to Sligh, I take Florida Avenue
07:28:34 more than 275 now even know it's slower, I like to look
07:28:38 at all the improvements.
07:28:39 There's still pockets of unsightly businesses but I am
07:28:43 very encouraged by the development that Elizabeth has
07:28:48 done and I would like to voice my support for the wet
07:28:53 zoning for 3:00 a.m.
07:28:54 Thank you.
07:28:55 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Sir?
07:28:56 Sir, before you speak, I saw you come in a little later.
07:29:00 Were you sworn in?
07:29:01 >> Yes, I was.
07:29:02 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Thank you.
07:29:03 Go ahead.
07:29:03 >> My name is David Adams.
07:29:05 6702 North Branch Avenue, which is approximately two
07:29:09 blocks east of the building.
07:29:12 And I'm definitely in support of it.
07:29:14 I've seen what Elizabeth has done before, with the
07:29:17 building thus far.
07:29:19 And it has come a long way.
07:29:21 I've lived at the current residence where I am since
07:29:25 2002.
07:29:26 And have seen it take an increase.
07:29:32 It has increased in its popularity and in where it has
07:29:36 come.
07:29:36 Took a setback once the market dropped back in 2008,
07:29:43 around that timeframe and we really were wondering what
07:29:46 was going to happen with the community at that point in
07:29:48 time.
07:29:49 It's great to see that it's starting to bounce back again
07:29:52 and all the houses in the area are doing well.
07:29:56 And I that I what Elizabeth and her team has been doing
07:29:59 has been fantastic.
07:30:00 I was under the impression initially that everything was
07:30:04 the same and I found through you and the conversations
07:30:07 that I've listened to that it's not quite the case.
07:30:11 As the Councilwoman said, I don't really understand how
07:30:13 it could be any different from what it originally was and
07:30:16 how it could be different for some folks and not the
07:30:19 others.
07:30:19 So I would definitely support the 3:00 a.m. wet zone in
07:30:23 rest to that.
07:30:24 In addition, I've heard a number of folks talk about the
07:30:28 auto sales makers that are around the area as well.
07:30:31 I firmly believe that restaurants and lounges in the area
07:30:35 that had that 3:00 a.m. wet zone are a lot more helpful
07:30:39 to my property values and the community in general than
07:30:43 car lots and I will add family dollars that you could
07:30:47 probably count the number of.
07:30:48 [ Laughter ]
07:30:49 >> So, I definitely would support this 3:00 a.m. wet
07:30:53 zone, which is two blocks away from my home.
07:30:56 I would like to see that.
07:30:57 So, thank you very much.
07:30:59 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Ms. Capin?
07:31:01 >>YVONNE CAPIN: I'm curious, sir, I'm very curious.
07:31:04 What exactly do you think I was referring to?
07:31:08 >> The fact that there was a change somehow in the zoning
07:31:15 that was unbeknownst to the Council.
07:31:18 And perhaps to, you know, then it was different from some
07:31:22 folks within the same building than it was for others
07:31:25 within the same building.
07:31:27 >>YVONNE CAPIN: No.
07:31:27 Here we go.
07:31:28 We have a city consistent with chapter 14.
07:31:39 Chapter 14 in our city, we allow from chapter 14, from
07:31:44 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 a.m., six days a week, 11:00 a.m. to
07:31:50 3:00 a.m. on Sunday.
07:31:51 My question was, why didn't it stay with chapter 14 and
07:31:58 change total 11:00 a.m.?
07:31:59 I have no problem with 3:00 a.m. openings.
07:32:02 We do that all the time.
07:32:03 What I have a problem with is granting a 3:00 a.m. change
07:32:09 that is not -- that is not to chapter 14 code.
07:32:15 Which gives you even more hours.
07:32:17 Even more hours.
07:32:18 So, but it is what we allow.
07:32:22 Anything other than that is, differentiates.
07:32:26 And at 3:00 a.m. -- I'll state it now -- for me and I've
07:32:32 stated in the past, 3:00 a.m. opening that is not chapter
07:32:35 14, I will never vote for.
07:32:37 Which chapter 14 allows for 3:00 a.m.
07:32:41 But for me, it needs to be chapter 14.
07:32:45 Not 3:00 a.m., 11.
07:32:47 So therefore, I'm just -- that's my, I've stated it
07:32:52 before.
07:32:53 So that was it.
07:32:54 It actually allows for 21 hours a day.
07:32:58 It's more hours than is stated here.
07:33:01 >> Well, whatever increase it is business for this
07:33:03 building is what I am for.
07:33:08 [all talking at once]
07:33:11 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Let's get through.
07:33:12 Sir.
07:33:13 >> Is Ingrid Smith here?
07:33:25 One additional minute, total of 4.
07:33:27 >> Not sure if pictures whether the phone will work under
07:33:35 this.
07:33:35 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Please state your name.
07:33:37 >> I'm sorry.
07:33:38 I'm Rick Fifer.
07:33:39 I'm the land use chair for the old Seminole Heights
07:33:42 neighborhood association.
07:33:43 I live at 1408 East Tampa.
07:33:45 Nobody, nobody, including me, thinks that Elizabeth
07:33:49 Graham did a horrible job on that building.
07:33:51 There's also a lot of her vision as history I heard in
07:33:55 here.
07:33:56 Because one of the reasons that we've been working so
07:33:58 hard to have consistent hours has been from the advice
07:34:01 that we got from Mr. Miranda when the last time Ms.
07:34:04 Graham was looking to wet zone her beautiful salon and
07:34:09 what was then Bungalow Bistro.
07:34:11 But to my comment.
07:34:13 Once again before you about a proposed wet zoning
07:34:16 request, land use committee voted 8-1 against, that the
07:34:20 old Seminole Heights Neighborhood Association board
07:34:23 unanimously opposed.
07:34:24 The location is more than a mile north of Hillsborough.
07:34:27 So I ask you to please take into account how far away
07:34:30 from this site some of the proponents and supporters live
07:34:33 who don't live in Seminole Heights.
07:34:37 OSHNA sent out a survey.
07:34:40 OSHNA has 1200 names on their bungalow alert system.
07:34:45 They all correspond to email.
07:34:47 The ones that Mr. Lydle was referring to that we couldn't
07:34:50 track, those were because I, with Debbie Johnson's
07:34:53 approval, I put it on the very social media site so other
07:34:57 people could respond.
07:34:59 I've heard that multiple people took it multiple times.
07:35:02 But when I looked at the data, they must have also made
07:35:06 multiple answers each time.
07:35:08 But it was the largest single response that OSHNA has
07:35:11 ever had to a bungalow alert.
07:35:13 We have had over 527 responses.
07:35:16 Maybe some of them were bad.
07:35:17 But the ones we had email addresses to, that's a sizable
07:35:22 number.
07:35:22 Total number of votes was about 40% of how many Seminole
07:35:25 Heights residents started in the last city election.
07:35:28 Not chump change in terms of the opinion.
07:35:31 Nearly 60% of those responding said 1:00 a.m. was the
07:35:35 latest time for Thursday through Sunday that they found
07:35:39 acceptable.
07:35:40 71% of the respondents lived within a quarter mile, at
07:35:45 least what they reported, of the commercial corridors.
07:35:48 17.8% lived between a quarter and half mile.
07:35:52 The responses were nearly equally split, 49.1 to 50.9
07:36:01 about 11:00 p.m. or 1:00 a.m. on the other nights of the
07:36:05 week.
07:36:05 One of the things I had talk with Miss Graham about
07:36:09 before was that's what the neighborhood numbers actually
07:36:12 support even if the neighborhood association policy
07:36:15 hasn't gone there.
07:36:16 But that was not apparently something that was acceptable
07:36:19 3:00 a.m. seems to be what she wants.
07:36:22 Tampa has an code that requires 250-foot separation from
07:36:28 the nearest residential property and 250 feet from the
07:36:30 nearest ABS selling business.
07:36:33 You're being asked to waive that distance by the
07:36:35 petitioner.
07:36:36 The property in question is one tenth the required
07:36:40 separation from residential.
07:36:42 The property does not appear to meet -- does appear to
07:36:45 meet the requirement for another ABS business.
07:36:48 However, this is a big deal.
07:36:50 The petitioner is seeking to have ABS sales for an entire
07:36:53 strip center.
07:36:54 Four different businesses.
07:36:55 I wracked my brain trying to find the location I could
07:36:59 think of in any commercial corridors of this city where
07:37:01 you had an entire strip center wet zoned for multiple
07:37:05 businesses.
07:37:06 Maybe I've missed something.
07:37:08 Effectively circumventing the distance requirement, I
07:37:12 can't think of a single example.
07:37:14 Petitioners had multiple conversations and this
07:37:17 disadvantage thing, the wine bar that's supposed to be
07:37:21 opening across the street, the rum distillery, the former
07:37:23 Demonte's, all on Florida Avenue, all had the restricted
07:37:27 hours.
07:37:27 They've all opened during that time.
07:37:28 The former Bourgeois pig location, 7 sons, all have
07:37:31 agreed to those earlier times.
07:37:33 This isn't an unfair disadvantage.
07:37:35 What Miss Graham is actually asking for is an advantage
07:37:38 over of all her competitors.
07:37:42 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Give us one more last sentence.
07:37:44 >> Well, I don't think residents should have to be
07:37:46 begging for property rights to be valued the same as
07:37:49 commercial property owners.
07:37:51 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Thank you.
07:37:52 Ma'am, you're next.
07:37:53 >> Hello.
07:37:57 I'm Matilda Morabit.
07:37:58 I live at 3495 Fish Hook Road, Deltona, Florida.
07:38:04 I'm one of the owners of the Graham building.
07:38:07 My family moved into the community in 1990.
07:38:09 Very charming neighborhood at the time.
07:38:13 And we had lots of beautiful little bungalows but was
07:38:17 lacking in places to eat, to shop or jobs for my children
07:38:21 at that time.
07:38:21 When Elizabeth saw the opportunity to save the two
07:38:27 historical buildings, the bungalows in 1999, she was one
07:38:32 of the pioneers of that community.
07:38:35 She purchased them and she moved them to Florida Avenue.
07:38:38 And met many of the other businesses have built around
07:38:43 that community since she has beautified that area.
07:38:46 As a family we started the Bungalow Bistro restaurant,
07:38:51 which is now The Refinery, and the forever beautiful
07:38:54 salon and day spa.
07:38:56 Both are very successful businesses since 1999.
07:39:01 Our vision since 1995 is to have a wholesome and
07:39:08 attractive community.
07:39:11 To aid in the development and the redevelopment of
07:39:13 Seminole Heights and to create job opportunities.
07:39:17 And having established family friendly restaurants and
07:39:24 places to enjoy.
07:39:25 In 2014, the opportunity came to obtain a very distressed
07:39:32 strip center.
07:39:34 As a family, we wanted to continue our vision and totally
07:39:38 remodel to be, to attract businesses into the community.
07:39:42 We have two leases signed, one as you know is the ice
07:39:49 cream parlor and the other one is the wine shop.
07:39:52 A letter of intent is from a qualified restaurant, this
07:39:58 property already has a 3:00 a.m. wet zone on it.
07:40:01 We would like to upgrade from a convenience store to a
07:40:05 restaurant.
07:40:06 Our tenants have requested that the hours be from
07:40:10 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 a.m., which is allowed.
07:40:16 They do not want to be in a disadvantage with the other,
07:40:19 several other restaurants that are in the community.
07:40:21 We have met with our neighbors and with our neighborhood
07:40:27 associations.
07:40:28 With this said, we would appreciate your support and
07:40:33 thank you.
07:40:34 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Ma'am, before you sit down.
07:40:35 Did you say you are an owner of the Graham build?
07:40:38 >> Yes.
07:40:38 >>MIKE SUAREZ: So you're related to the petition senator.
07:40:40 >> Yes.
07:40:41 >>MIKE SUAREZ: And you have a financial interest in this
07:40:42 building?
07:40:42 >> Yes, I do.
07:40:43 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Okay.
07:40:44 Thank you.
07:40:44 I needed to know that because I wanted to make sure that
07:40:49 the party's Council understands that she should have been
07:40:54 brought up during the portion of the time you had time so
07:40:57 we can be fair to everyone and we'll talk about that
07:41:00 after public comment.
07:41:01 Thank you so much.
07:41:02 Appreciate it.
07:41:03 Sir?
07:41:05 >> I have not been sworn in.
07:41:06 Is there anyone else in the audience that wants to speak
07:41:10 that has not been sworn in?
07:41:12 Sir?
07:41:15 [Oath administered by Clerk]
07:41:16 >> Hi.
07:41:20 My name is Eric Holsinger, 5202 North Suwannee.
07:41:24 And I understand the people are always looking for a new
07:41:28 late night party place.
07:41:30 But I feel we already have established areas for that.
07:41:33 And we shunt be looking to create yet another problem
07:41:37 area.
07:41:38 You know, just asking you all please don't transform our
07:41:44 nice quiet neighborhood into yet another party zone.
07:41:48 And you know, I don't feel there's any greater good being
07:41:53 created by giving these 3:00 a.m. zonings.
07:41:56 We always, as was demonstrated earlier, there's already
07:42:01 several options within close proximity for 3:00 a.m.
07:42:04 drinking.
07:42:05 We don't need a hire density of that.
07:42:07 And then if that's not good enough, Ybor is ten minutes
07:42:12 away.
07:42:13 Also, they may argue that well, we're not going to be a
07:42:19 party atmosphere.
07:42:19 We're going to be a restaurant.
07:42:21 Nice restaurant.
07:42:23 And I would answer to that that there is no pent-up
07:42:26 demand for late night dining within Seminole Heights.
07:42:30 May not be very clear.
07:42:39 >>MIKE SUAREZ: It's not clear at all.
07:42:41 [ Laughter ]
07:42:41 >> There you see that is the parking lot of The Refinery.
07:42:53 Interests dentally, a property that Ms. Graham also owns
07:42:56 that was 10:30 last night.
07:42:58 Now, this demonstrates my point.
07:43:01 That even though they are currently zoned for much later
07:43:06 hours than that, they close at 10:00 on weekdays.
07:43:09 They close at 11 weeknights.
07:43:12 The other 3:00 a.m. businesses that were mentioned here,
07:43:15 their kitchens close at similar hours.
07:43:19 There's no people just banging down doors to have dinner
07:43:23 at 3:00 a.m.
07:43:24 I think that demonstrates by virtue of what's going on
07:43:32 this the area that 3:00 a.m. is not a make and break for
07:43:35 restaurants in the area.
07:43:37 It just leaves the door open for potential bars
07:43:41 undesirable things at 3:00 a.m.
07:43:43 So I'd ask that you reject it based upon the 3:00 a.m.
07:43:47 closing and the outdoor sales.
07:43:50 The neighborhood is already made many concessions for wet
07:43:55 zonings of properties that by code aren't entitled to
07:44:00 any, that they have to come for waivers.
07:44:02 So likewise I think it's reasonable for us to expect that
07:44:05 the business owners make concessions also and that they
07:44:09 not go for the outside sales and that they also operate
07:44:14 in hours that are compatible with being a residential
07:44:17 area.
07:44:17 We have jobs, we have children.
07:44:21 We'd like you to protect the quiet enjoyment of our
07:44:24 homes.
07:44:24 And the homeowners association has been very consistent
07:44:27 and not approving 3:00 a.m. zoning.
07:44:31 And I'd ask you for your consistency in helping us and
07:44:36 hopefully that, you know, people learn that 3:00 a.m. in
07:44:42 Seminole Heights is a nonstarter and just come with
07:44:45 reasonable proposals off the bat.
07:44:48 Please give your consideration to the residents that have
07:44:50 to live here day in and day out and not transform our
07:44:53 neighborhood into another late night party zone.
07:44:56 Thank you.
07:44:56 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Thank you, sir.
07:44:57 Sir.
07:44:58 >> Hello.
07:45:00 Thank you for taking time to speak with me.
07:45:02 Paul bureau bridge, my wife bought the property 5119
07:45:06 Suwannee back in 1990.
07:45:08 So been witness to a lot of stuff in Seminole Heights for
07:45:11 a long time.
07:45:13 There are a couple points I'd like to make.
07:45:15 I'm very much in support of the Graham building and
07:45:18 approval for the waivers as she has requested them.
07:45:21 I thought a lot about what I wanted to say today, then
07:45:25 had a business trip to Seattle last week and wanted to
07:45:28 share it with you.
07:45:29 A neighborhood called power.
07:45:30 Reminded me of Seminole Heights because all these houses
07:45:33 that are about a hundred years old and they're bungalows
07:45:36 and tight.
07:45:36 Like Brooklyn, the comment the commissioner made earlier.
07:45:39 It's absolutely gorgeous.
07:45:41 It's stunning.
07:45:42 It is incredibly beautiful.
07:45:44 Just a little downtown area, like Miss Graham is trying
07:45:47 to create here.
07:45:48 Where people are biking, people are walking, taking their
07:45:52 kids.
07:45:52 And destination street walking and biking and local,
07:45:56 very, very nice.
07:45:57 Kind of made me think about that because this is
07:46:00 direction we can take the Seminole Heights communities if
07:46:02 we're willing to take the risk like Miss Graham has
07:46:05 taken.
07:46:05 And there's I'd like to very strongly support it.
07:46:10 I'm unaware of any negative aspects of anything she's
07:46:14 asking for.
07:46:15 And really the proof's in the pudding.
07:46:17 Gentleman earlier brought up a picture one restaurant was
07:46:20 closed earlier.
07:46:21 Okay.
07:46:22 Obviously it's not a problem.
07:46:23 But I think the business community and the people who are
07:46:27 putting their money on the line deserve the consideration
07:46:31 for that and for revitalizing the neighborhood instead of
07:46:35 have buy here pay here on lot, take people and go get an
07:46:42 ice cream.
07:46:44 Thank you.
07:46:45 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Thank you, sir.
07:46:46 Sir?
07:46:50 >> My name is David neutral.
07:46:53 A 503 west Hilda.
07:46:56 Rye century moved into Tampa.
07:46:57 I just met Miss Graham the other night.
07:47:00 Just talked to her, what she was trying to do.
07:47:02 I'm impressed.
07:47:03 For what she's done so far and what she's still
07:47:06 continuing trying to do, she ought to be given the
07:47:08 opportunity to continue.
07:47:09 This kind of thing can go two ways.
07:47:12 Back from where I'm from Massachusetts, cape cod, people
07:47:16 trying to do exactly what she's trying to do were denied
07:47:19 the chance and that sent a message out to others, they're
07:47:23 not going to try it in that area either.
07:47:25 When you open up the door like you've done for her in the
07:47:29 past apparently, should keep on doing it.
07:47:32 I think it's a great idea.
07:47:34 Personally I would like to see a place open a little
07:47:38 after midnight.
07:47:39 That's when I get out of work.
07:47:41 Would be glad to grab a bite to it instead of going home
07:47:46 and wake someone up.
07:47:47 It's a good thing.
07:47:49 What really got me on board was gourmet ice cream.
07:47:52 [ Laughter ]
07:47:54 >> We need that.
07:47:55 We definitely need that.
07:47:56 I just think what she's trying to do is a great thing.
07:48:00 She should be given the opportunity to do this.
07:48:03 Really.
07:48:03 I think it's fantastic.
07:48:05 Like I said, I'm new to the area.
07:48:08 I've only been told what it was like a few years ago.
07:48:11 The changes have been slow in coming.
07:48:13 But they're coming.
07:48:15 Very good sign.
07:48:16 I think you should allow it to continue.
07:48:19 Really.
07:48:19 All I can say amount of everybody else has said enough.
07:48:23 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Sir?
07:48:24 >> Good evening.
07:48:31 My name is Christopher Watson.
07:48:33 I currently reside 6806 North Florida Avenue.
07:48:37 I am a current Seminole Heights resident and I moved to
07:48:40 Seminole Heights from Williamsburg, New York, in 2012.
07:48:43 I chose this neighborhood for the slow pace -- cultural
07:48:50 availability of a neighborhood up and coming.
07:48:52 I'm a licensed cosmetologists as well as long time
07:48:57 hospitality employee.
07:49:00 I'm often out of work in the late evening and I love the
07:49:04 opportunity to dine in my own neighborhood after a long
07:49:07 shift.
07:49:08 Elizabeth Graham not only provided me with employment but
07:49:12 multiple opportunities to enjoy my community.
07:49:16 I vote in favor of these changes to our neighborhood.
07:49:20 I currently live two doors down from father and shine, a
07:49:24 successful sister restaurant to The Refinery and have to
07:49:28 date not experienced a negative outcome due to 3:00 a.m.
07:49:31 liquor licensing.
07:49:32 Thank you for your time and consideration.
07:49:36 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Thank you, sir.
07:49:37 Next?
07:49:38 >> Hi, my name cries Donaldson.
07:49:42 112 West Comanche Avenue.
07:49:44 I've been in the neighborhood about eight years.
07:49:46 I've known Elizabeth for most of those years and I found
07:49:50 her to be a very loving, caring business owner.
07:49:53 Somebody who has proven success if which she's done.
07:49:57 Somebody who is passionate about increasing the growth of
07:50:00 our community.
07:50:02 Like a lot of people here, on the roadway is tons and
07:50:07 tons of used car lots.
07:50:08 We prefer to have more restaurants, where our families
07:50:11 can enjoy, by walking to, versus getting in the car and
07:50:15 drive 20, 30 minutes away.
07:50:17 By having more people like Elizabeth taking the chance of
07:50:20 building something for the community is something that we
07:50:22 need more of.
07:50:23 Thank you.
07:50:28 >> Good evening, City Council member also.
07:50:31 My name is Donna Starke.
07:50:33 214 west Ohio street.
07:50:35 I'm here left with an opinion this evening so much as I'm
07:50:38 here to provide a little additional information and
07:50:41 clarification on comments made this evening.
07:50:43 Did I attend the joint land use committee meeting for
07:50:47 Seminole Heights.
07:50:48 It is set up under the auspices of OSHNA.
07:50:51 The idea is get input from southeast Seminole Heights,
07:50:55 south Seminole Heights and old Seminole Heights along
07:50:58 commercial corridor so we can have a more cohesive
07:51:02 opinion on development occurring on those corridors.
07:51:05 Because when somebody comes in, it doesn't matter if it's
07:51:07 south, southeast or old, it's Seminole Heights.
07:51:11 At that particular meeting, the final vote was 8-1 for a
07:51:15 1:00 a.m. but it was actually 1:00 a.m. all week.
07:51:18 OSHNA did send out a survey that, to try to obtain
07:51:23 additional information.
07:51:24 It does obviously have its flaws as online surveys will
07:51:27 do.
07:51:28 Which we're mentioned this evening.
07:51:29 But also is a starting point we can use and evolve upon
07:51:33 in the future.
07:51:34 I think the plan is canvas their respective neighborhoods
07:51:37 with a more in-depth is your try get idea of what is
07:51:41 actually the compounding factors behind 1:00 a.m. versus
07:51:45 3:00 a.m.
07:51:46 In conversations that evening, the two driving factors
07:51:49 were concerns about parking and noise.
07:51:51 Will there be overflow parking, would it impacts
07:51:55 neighbors and noise, would there be amplified music and
07:51:59 would it keep nearby neighbors up?
07:52:02 As far as the parking goes and the noise, we do know
07:52:04 other neighborhoods in the city have been impacted in
07:52:07 that I that I we are looking to work with the city to
07:52:10 find out if there are additional solutions or things we
07:52:12 can pursue going forward to help alleviate that.
07:52:16 Because the parking issue we're always going to run into,
07:52:19 no matter retail, alcohol or any other type of
07:52:23 development if we truly want to become a main street in
07:52:25 the future we hope to partner with city staff and get
07:52:28 additional information and work towards a long-term
07:52:31 solution.
07:52:33 I do think Elizabeth has put a lot of time and heart and
07:52:36 investment into Seminole Heights.
07:52:38 He has put it out there.
07:52:40 Think the two questions really before you this evening is
07:52:43 this in the best long-term interest for Seminole Heights
07:52:45 in general?
07:52:46 And have we hit the saturation point yet for 3:00 a.m. in
07:52:50 our area?
07:52:50 I through is a threshold where you cross over.
07:52:53 I can't say one way or the other if we have reached it or
07:52:56 no can't tell you yes, we still have population that
07:53:00 would love to support another local neighborhood
07:53:02 establishment open till 3:00 a.m.
07:53:05 I will definitely say Seminole Heights always does
07:53:07 support its own.
07:53:08 When somebody opposite, we try to be supportive.
07:53:11 What you're seeing this evening is the commentary on
07:53:14 evolving neighborhood.
07:53:16 Priorities and values lie.
07:53:18 I ask you vote for what you feel is our best long-term
07:53:22 interest.
07:53:22 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Before I take Mr. Barron, is there anyone
07:53:25 else that's going to speak that if they could, if they're
07:53:28 able to stand, if they could stand along the wall there
07:53:31 so we know where we're at in terms of number of folks
07:53:34 left over.
07:53:35 Thank you.
07:53:39 >> Thank you, Mr. Chair.
07:53:40 My name is Randy Barron, 10 Hamilton Heath drive,
07:53:45 Seminole Heights.
07:53:46 I live within 250 feet of a wet zone property so I have a
07:53:49 little bit of experience with that.
07:53:50 I'm also former president of OSHNA and former president
07:53:53 of T.H.A.N.
07:53:54 The reason why I mentioned that is I was amongst the
07:53:57 people who negotiated with some of the early restaurants
07:54:00 about their wet zoning hours.
07:54:02 These include Elizabeth and her properties, Bungalow
07:54:05 Bistro, which is now The Refinery.
07:54:08 From the mouth of the owner, Elizabeth's mom, that is a
07:54:11 very, very successful location.
07:54:12 It has 12:00 a.m. and 1:00 a.m. wet zoned hours.
07:54:18 So does Ella's, so does The Independent, The Refinery,
07:54:22 these are all businesses that are thriving.
07:54:24 What we're about here is compatibility.
07:54:27 Compatibility between people who went into those
07:54:31 neighborhoods and purchased homes and started turning the
07:54:35 homes around in order to create the environment to
07:54:37 attract the businesses.
07:54:38 These are people with mortgages, people who go to work
07:54:41 every day.
07:54:41 And some of them live within 21 feet of this property.
07:54:44 6,000 square feet of wet zoning, of which 1900 is
07:54:52 outdoor.
07:54:52 There are spots, I mean, it's like do the math.
07:54:58 From the staff report, there's going to be about 150
07:55:01 seats in wet zoned property.
07:55:04 And there's only 26 spaces.
07:55:06 They're all compact.
07:55:07 So if anyone is driving an F-150 or a suburban, where are
07:55:12 they going to park?
07:55:13 They're not going to park in one of those spots.
07:55:15 They're going to park in the neighborhood.
07:55:16 This is the problem we have always had.
07:55:18 We want these businesses.
07:55:20 I love Elizabeth.
07:55:21 I was there when she moved those bungalows.
07:55:24 We supported her.
07:55:25 We have supported the independent, we supported Ella, all
07:55:28 these establishments.
07:55:29 But we also understand that there is a compatibility
07:55:35 issue, because we do not want to turn into Hyde Park and
07:55:39 all the troubles that they had with the parking and the
07:55:42 wet zonings.
07:55:43 I mentioned T.H.A.N. because I worked with those
07:55:45 neighborhood associations when they were dealing with all
07:55:47 the parking and the noise.
07:55:49 We're talking about tying this to a restaurant.
07:55:51 That's fine.
07:55:52 Ever seen the menu at MacDinton's?
07:55:57 You can buy food at MacDinton's till 3:00 a.m.
07:56:00 MacDinton's is really not a restaurant, it's really a
07:56:02 bar.
07:56:04 Giving a 1:00 a.m. wet zoning now and then seeing how it
07:56:10 works and then letting people come back later and ask for
07:56:15 extended hours is a prudent and easy path that would
07:56:22 solve this compromise between the owners of the property
07:56:25 who have rights and the owners of the businesses, who
07:56:28 have rights.
07:56:29 It's required into the code under Chapter 27, even though
07:56:33 chapter 14 sets the wet zoning hours, Chapter 27 requires
07:56:37 you when looking at waivers, to look at things like
07:56:40 parking, like different hours, and that's what we have
07:56:45 always done.
07:56:46 This is one of the few times when we have approached
07:56:50 businesses that they would not actually accept the hours.
07:56:53 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Thank you, Mr. Barron.
07:56:55 Appreciate it.
07:56:55 Ma'am, you're next.
07:57:01 >> Good evening.
07:57:01 Sandra Carr, I live at 6711 North Rollington Avenue.
07:57:04 I'm one block away from the building in question.
07:57:07 My house is right here.
07:57:08 I can see the building from every single window of my
07:57:11 house.
07:57:11 The property has a wet zoning on it.
07:57:15 I testified at that wet zoning against it because it was
07:57:18 3:00 a.m.
07:57:19 And I guess what my question tonight would be, is how can
07:57:23 that still, how can that property still have a wet zoning
07:57:27 when five years have passed and it was vacant and as
07:57:30 testified by the party's representatives, it was a
07:57:34 church.
07:57:34 So I question that.
07:57:35 It was just on the end.
07:57:38 So I understand if they want the whole building zoned.
07:57:42 I counted the parking spots tonight.
07:57:44 I only counted 17, with one handicapped.
07:57:48 I'm not sure where they're coming up with the 29 or 26 or
07:57:52 whatever.
07:57:52 I don't know if that includes the bicycle spots or what.
07:58:00 I'm not sure what she told my neighbors.
07:58:02 I love the building, it's beautiful.
07:58:05 Like Elizabeth, it's great.
07:58:07 All set aside, we have a parking issue.
07:58:09 I don't need to get up at 3:00 a.m. with some diesel
07:58:12 truck out front of my house.
07:58:14 I'm sorry.
07:58:14 I don't.
07:58:15 This is just way too close for that.
07:58:17 My neighbors next door, she's 90.
07:58:20 Across the street, he is in her 80s.
07:58:22 That's why they're not here tonight.
07:58:24 My other neighbor 0 who is right across the street works
07:58:27 at the zoo.
07:58:28 She is up all hours and I'm sure she likes to sleep once
07:58:31 in a while.
07:58:32 My other neighbor expressed the same concern.
07:58:35 The parking is an issue here and that's what you're going
07:58:40 to have to look at.
07:58:41 I'm not opposed to 1:00 a.m.
07:58:44 I'm opposed to 3:00 a.m. every single night of the week.
07:58:48 I myself get up at 4:00 and go to work.
07:58:50 I've lived in my house since 1981.
07:58:53 I've seen it all.
07:58:54 Done it all.
07:58:55 Been there.
07:58:56 Like to car lots, they're quiet and there's nobody there
07:58:58 at night.
07:58:59 And there's nobody there early in the morning.
07:59:01 I've never, they should buy those car lots and make
07:59:06 parking lots out of them.
07:59:08 That would solve a parking issue.
07:59:09 Either way, I didn't hear anything about Elizabeth did
07:59:15 come and speak with me.
07:59:16 She said she had a lease for parking with Danny Beltran.
07:59:20 I texted Danny Beltran.
07:59:23 He said he'd never met her but give her his cell number,
07:59:27 he'd love to meet her.
07:59:28 So I'm not sure who she got the lease with for parking.
07:59:31 Anyway, here nor there, I'm opposed to it.
07:59:35 I would prefer the midnight, 1:00 a.m.
07:59:37 I don't know if you can do special occasion permits.
07:59:41 You know, on the holiday, they stay open late, okay,
07:59:43 fine, we are all up late.
07:59:45 But I would respectfully request that you deny the
07:59:47 3:00 a.m. alcohol sales.
07:59:50 Thank you.
07:59:51 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Thank you, ma'am.
07:59:52 Sir?
07:59:55 >> Hello.
07:59:56 My name is Justin Valdez.
07:59:59 I'm an artist, I work at bar, I'm a bartender.
08:00:03 My busiest hours at my bar are between 1:00 and 3:00.
08:00:08 If someone told me I couldn't take tip money and put
08:00:10 money in my register from 1:00 to 3:00, we would lose
08:00:14 thousands of dollars in a week, not a month.
08:00:16 A week, on a good day, can you lose $500.
08:00:19 That's my student loan money.
08:00:21 I live in 1918 east Clinton street.
08:00:24 Fully Seminole Heights and I love the area.
08:00:26 When I get off work a lot of times, it can be late.
08:00:29 Sometimes it's like 1:00 or 2:00.
08:00:31 And there is sometimes I want to go somewhere and
08:00:33 actually just relax before I go home.
08:00:36 Maybe a glass of wine.
08:00:37 A dessert.
08:00:38 I'm also last thing night to say, I'm itself romantic.
08:00:42 You can't rush love.
08:00:43 So sometimes you actually need to have a little bit of
08:00:46 hours to romance, have some wine and cake and what not
08:00:49 last.
08:00:51 >> So, you know, telling --
08:00:58 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Sir, I don't think we have ever had
08:01:00 someone romance us like you have.
08:01:02 >> At 1:00, we got to cut this date off early.
08:01:05 You know, that could be a tragedy.
08:01:07 I do, I do frequent the Ybor City wine bar.
08:01:14 It's actually a great location.
08:01:16 When you look at the places in Ybor City where you can go
08:01:19 to and have a quality time, where you can actually enjoy
08:01:22 yourself, Miss Kosar's bar is the place to be.
08:01:26 When it comes, I know there's an issue with the building
08:01:29 being so close to residences.
08:01:31 Wine bars, they detract different clientele than they
08:01:36 would in Ybor City.
08:01:38 Bern's is right next to houses.
08:01:40 I'm sure you hear about all the complaints from all the
08:01:43 people living next to Bern's.
08:01:44 I mean, but it is what it is.
08:01:46 So I really hope you approve it.
08:01:49 It would help people in my motion.
08:01:51 I'm a residents of Seminole Heights but I'm also
08:01:54 demographic.
08:01:56 And stuff like that having that opportunity to make those
08:01:59 extra funds, it does put money in my pocket because I'm
08:02:02 the person who works there.
08:02:03 But also helps the businesses grow and attract more
08:02:06 investors.
08:02:06 Thank you.
08:02:07 Hope you have a good night.
08:02:11 >> How do you follow that?
08:02:12 [ Laughter ]
08:02:15 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: Let's have another drink.
08:02:17 >> Good evening, Council.
08:02:22 I'm Kimberly overman, president of the business guild
08:02:25 which is now called Heights urban core chamber.
08:02:28 I provided you with a letter of full support from the
08:02:32 land use and transportation committee.
08:02:36 The business owners and business members within the
08:02:39 Seminole Heights area as well as the Tampa Heights area.
08:02:43 And a full approval by the board of the Heights urban
08:02:49 core chamber.
08:02:51 We have heard a lot of things this evening that caused
08:02:53 some concern about businesses that happen to be open
08:02:56 late.
08:02:57 Honestly most of those concerns are not really the
08:02:59 business' fault.
08:03:00 They are the concern of the fact that we have a very
08:03:04 dense urban community with a very shallow lot line
08:03:10 commercial district, all along Florida and Nebraska
08:03:14 Avenue.
08:03:15 You will find very few commercial lots where there's more
08:03:20 than 25 to 60 feet before you run into a home so if we
08:03:26 are going to decide that we have to come for a variance
08:03:29 on space if someone wants to open up any kind of
08:03:33 establishment, that includes alcohol sales, and we aren't
08:03:36 going to offer that waiver, we might as well tell
08:03:41 everyone there are no more alcohol sales in the Heights.
08:03:43 Because that's what it is.
08:03:46 Most of the lots on Florida Avenue and Nebraska Avenue
08:03:53 are very shallow and right up against residential
08:03:57 communities.
08:03:57 It's the way businesses used to be.
08:04:02 The good news is that we have a neighborhood -- a
08:04:06 neighbor who owns two businesses that has not had
08:04:10 complaints.
08:04:10 That is investing a great deal of her money into opening
08:04:13 up another one in our area.
08:04:15 If we can come up with a good advice from the planning
08:04:18 staff on how to address our parking issues, and allow
08:04:23 when we as a chamber advise our members to seriously take
08:04:28 into consideration the impact of noise or amplified sound
08:04:32 and they listen to us, an they choose to not offer that
08:04:37 outside.
08:04:38 It would be fair to offer that business the best
08:04:41 opportunity they can to succeed.
08:04:43 You may remember an applicant called Intercoros that came
08:04:50 and got a limited license to 1:00.
08:04:52 That restaurant is designed to be open till 3:00 and has
08:04:56 to stop serving food because they have a limited
08:04:59 1:00 a.m. license.
08:05:00 And that is actually not helping them.
08:05:03 So please consider this application because it is a
08:05:06 different style of investment.
08:05:09 And official a mixed use of businesses is what we're
08:05:12 trying to promote in the Heights.
08:05:14 Thanks for your time.
08:05:15 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Ma'am you.
08:05:19 Been sworn in.
08:05:20 Is there anyone else who wants to speak who has not been
08:05:23 sworn in?
08:05:24 If you are going to speak, please rise and be sworn in at
08:05:27 this time.
08:05:29 [Oath administered by Clerk]
08:05:29 >> Hello, Denise Moore, 311 west Henry avenue.
08:05:39 I've been a resident of Seminole Heights for about 16
08:05:43 years.
08:05:44 I moved to the area because of the charm.
08:05:47 I have lived in South Tampa after my daughter graduated
08:05:50 from high school, we moved up to the Heights because it's
08:05:52 always been an attractive area.
08:05:54 One of the things I love about the neighborhood is being
08:05:56 able to walk everywhere.
08:05:59 There are so many opportunities there.
08:06:00 I know Elizabeth from her former place, the Bungalow
08:06:05 Bistro.
08:06:08 I'm also a musician, so I was a performer there.
08:06:12 I've seen what she has done.
08:06:14 She was one of the first people to step out and do
08:06:16 something in our neighborhood and since then it has
08:06:18 grown.
08:06:19 I don't see that the 3:00 a.m. is a problem because
08:06:22 again, there are so many places that have it.
08:06:25 And yet those parking lots were empty.
08:06:27 I don't think that's a problem either.
08:06:29 They may not be open that late.
08:06:33 There may not be a problem with park.
08:06:35 But there is going to be a problem with parking for other
08:06:37 businesses later on down the road.
08:06:39 Not just this, the city neither to get together and find
08:06:44 parking for this neighborhood so that we can, the people
08:06:46 that live there can walk, ride their bicycles and people
08:06:50 that come in will have a place to park.
08:06:52 I support her business.
08:06:54 I support her vision.
08:06:55 I support our community.
08:06:58 And I hope that you support it as well.
08:07:00 Thank you.
08:07:03 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Okay, sir, you're next.
08:07:04 Before he goes, is there anyone else that's going to
08:07:07 speak after this gentleman?
08:07:09 Anyone else in the public about this particular item?
08:07:12 Okay, sir.
08:07:14 >>My name is Roger Creel, I live at 1012 East Ida in
08:07:17 southeast Seminole Heights.
08:07:19 I became aware of Tampa five years ago when my step
08:07:22 daughter started playing basketball for the University of
08:07:24 Tampa.
08:07:25 On a scholarship.
08:07:26 We came down and visited several times.
08:07:28 When she graduated she stayed and got a job here and
08:07:31 convinced us to move here.
08:07:33 We helped her buy a house and the place we found when we
08:07:38 looked, South Tampa, Hyde Park, we looked all over.
08:07:41 We picked Seminole Heights and she bought a house at 1217
08:07:46 east McBerry.
08:07:47 My stepson is now looking for, to buy a house in Seminole
08:07:50 Heights.
08:07:51 We're also, we leased a house and we're going to be a
08:07:55 little picky about where we buy but we are going to buy a
08:07:58 house in Seminole Heights.
08:07:59 I've worked in the hospitality industry in California for
08:08:04 six years prior to coming here.
08:08:06 I worked for the city of Tucson as a police lieutenant,
08:08:09 retired after 26 years and did fire, four years with the
08:08:12 City Council as a Council aide, so I know a little about
08:08:15 blight and urban transitory development and things of
08:08:18 that nature.
08:08:19 You need to get rid of the blight, used car lots and
08:08:24 vacant storefronts like Elizabeth has restored are a sign
08:08:29 of blight.
08:08:29 She's helping you get rid of the blight in the
08:08:32 neighborhood.
08:08:32 She's providing upscale amenities, a wine bar.
08:08:35 I can tell you is going to attract a much different
08:08:38 clientele.
08:08:40 Tequila bar, a gourmet restaurant is going to attract a
08:08:44 different clientele.
08:08:45 We need this type of amenities to continue to attract
08:08:48 people into a multi-generational, multi-cultural
08:08:52 neighborhood which is really moving up really well.
08:08:55 I've always lived in historic neighborhoods.
08:08:58 Fully west university neighborhood in Tucson, Arizona for
08:09:00 many years.
08:09:01 On third avenue which is right next to fourth avenue, my
08:09:04 house backed on to bars, yeah, there are some, on to
08:09:09 bars, not high scale upscale restaurants and wine bars.
08:09:13 I'm talking, you know, bars.
08:09:16 You know.
08:09:18 [ Laughter ]
08:09:19 >> Request loud music.
08:09:20 You live with it.
08:09:21 They had street fair there twice a year, festivals, they
08:09:25 were noisy but they were only for a few days a week, you
08:09:29 know, couple times a year.
08:09:31 That's the type of thing if you're in an urban
08:09:33 environment you have to learn to live with.
08:09:35 Especially with these historic urban corridors like
08:09:38 Florida Avenue.
08:09:39 You're not going to get the setbacks, you're not going to
08:09:41 get the parking.
08:09:42 So you're going to have to give waivers to get the type
08:09:47 of development you want.
08:09:48 High scale amenities where people can walk, ride their
08:09:52 bikes or take a lift to the restaurant which is what I
08:09:56 do.
08:09:56 I took a lift to the flag bar last night.
08:10:00 Like to sit outside and drink wine later in the evening.
08:10:03 Have that type of upscale type of environment.
08:10:07 That's why we moved to Seminole Heights.
08:10:09 I'd like to spirit this and continue the growth of this
08:10:12 community.
08:10:12 In that direction.
08:10:14 Thank you very much.
08:10:16 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Thank you, sir.
08:10:17 One last time, is there anyone in the public that would
08:10:19 like to speak on this number, number 6, AB 2-16-05.
08:10:26 I see no one.
08:10:27 Petitioner, one of the reasons I was asking about
08:10:30 Mrs. Graham's mother, obviously she is a, she has an
08:10:34 interest in this, a financial interest.
08:10:36 I think that it might be only fair to limit your rebuttal
08:10:40 at this point if that's okay.
08:10:42 >> Absolutely, Council.
08:10:43 I apologize.
08:10:44 She wanted to speak.
08:10:46 >>MIKE SUAREZ: It was my thought because I didn't catch
08:10:48 it when I, when she first started talking.
08:10:52 >> Three minutes, that's no problem.
08:10:53 I think that there's been a lot of people here obviously
08:10:59 that have spoken.
08:11:00 Really what we have heard is a lot of overwhelming
08:11:05 support.
08:11:06 Certainly there are people that do not support this
08:11:10 application, but you know, I don't want to spend a lot of
08:11:13 time doing this.
08:11:14 But as I showed you before, this is the map of support.
08:11:19 And all the people immediately surrounding this business
08:11:25 support this project as is.
08:11:27 Additionally we heard concerns about parking.
08:11:30 As I mentioned previously, my client has secured a
08:11:33 parking lease with a neighbor for up to 22 additional
08:11:38 spots that is to begin immediately.
08:11:41 We believe that our site plan really is consistent with
08:11:47 the exception of the requested waivers.
08:11:49 And as illustrated previously, we feel like we have the
08:11:53 majority of support, so, Ms. Capin, we heard you, and we
08:11:58 certainly would love your support for this project.
08:12:01 So we are happy to revise our site plan between first and
08:12:04 second readings to make the hours consistent with chapter
08:12:07 14 if that would mean your support.
08:12:10 Although we don't think the current tenants will use
08:12:12 those hours currently.
08:12:14 But in conclusion we believe the requested use tonight is
08:12:18 compatible with Seminole Heights and we certainly hope
08:12:20 that you will approve this petition so Miss Graham and
08:12:24 her family can add three exciting new businesses to
08:12:27 Seminole Heights.
08:12:28 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Thank you.
08:12:28 Ms. Capin?
08:12:30 >>YVONNE CAPIN: [Inaudible] Mrs. Graham obviously is a
08:12:38 good neighbor and a good businesswoman.
08:12:40 The support here is, shows it.
08:12:43 Also the issue of parking, that's a citywide issue.
08:12:49 If you look at the grid of Tampa.
08:12:51 Tampa's an old city for Florida, considered old.
08:12:54 And we have that issue all over the city, wherever, so
08:13:00 you know, I understand the waivers that have to be, we
08:13:05 have to do them.
08:13:06 Or else we can't open any businesses.
08:13:09 That I understand.
08:13:09 And as I said before, the consistent with chapter 14 is
08:13:17 how I vote.
08:13:19 And I appreciate that.
08:13:20 That's all I have to say.
08:13:27 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: Anyone in the city about AB again?
08:13:30 As ride this, you have the whole building of 6,000
08:13:35 whatever amount of a 6,722 square feet being addressed
08:13:40 for AB zoning of alcohol, am I correct?
08:13:43 >> Yes.
08:13:43 That is what was testified to.
08:13:46 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: It is divided, am I correct?
08:13:48 >> There are more than one units available.
08:13:51 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: So what happens if one fails?
08:13:55 >> If one goes out of business, the AB permit stays.
08:13:59 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: The AB permit stays.
08:14:01 And it stays no matter who comes in?
08:14:07 >>REBECCA KERT: I'm going to need Mr. Sousa to come in
08:14:09 and testify.
08:14:12 Because now I'm starting to testify.
08:14:14 It is my understanding from what I heard is that the site
08:14:16 plan has limited the uses, so if different uses came in,
08:14:21 they would not be able to sell alcohol from that area.
08:14:25 But I need him to explain that.
08:14:33 >> If it comes in that triggers the change of use, there
08:14:38 may be an issue with that.
08:14:40 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: You got me confused when you say it
08:14:43 may be.
08:14:43 Either yes or no.
08:14:44 >> Depends on the use coming in.
08:14:47 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: Ice cream shop and I come in with a
08:14:49 donut shop, what does that mean?
08:14:52 >> Retail to retail, no problem.
08:14:54 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: So if it's an ice cream shop and I
08:14:56 come in with a wine shop on top of the wine shop, what
08:15:00 does that mean?
08:15:02 >> Good question.
08:15:03 I would say it's still, I'd say it is still approved use
08:15:07 on the house.
08:15:09 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: AB has no value, in my book.
08:15:15 >> Keeps the alcohol --
08:15:17 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: I'm getting the drift of it now.
08:15:19 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Any other questions, Mr. Miranda?
08:15:23 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: No, sir.
08:15:23 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Anyone else from Council have any
08:15:25 questions?
08:15:25 Ms. Montelione.
08:15:26 >>LISA MONTELIONE: Thank you.
08:15:27 During the public comment there were a few things that I
08:15:35 heard that I want to clarify with Either Ms. Kert or
08:15:43 Mr. Sousa.
08:15:44 Someone had made the mention that think hadn't known of
08:15:48 any instances where the whole building was wet zoned.
08:15:53 And various different tenants within that building.
08:15:59 I in five years of sitting here, I know of a couple.
08:16:05 >> Yes, you did, I believe the name of the place is
08:16:09 called crew wine cellars on MacDill, south MacDill.
08:16:12 We did that once before.
08:16:14 We put the whole complex, wine studio, you have a
08:16:17 pharmacy, you have a CPA office, and we wet the entire
08:16:22 building.
08:16:22 >>LISA MONTELIONE: There's another one that's not built
08:16:25 yet.
08:16:26 >> Yes, ma'am.
08:16:27 It's not very common but does happen.
08:16:32 >>LISA MONTELIONE: So wanted to clarify that so it's not
08:16:35 that it's never happened before.
08:16:37 Miss Kert, I want to address the issue of the survey.
08:16:43 We here, when we are considering applications it's based
08:16:51 on substantial and competent evidence, correct?
08:16:54 >>REBECCA KERT: Correct.
08:16:54 >>LISA MONTELIONE: Can you tell me surveys that are
08:16:56 placed online or on social media sites, where that falls
08:16:59 in the realm of substantial and competent evidence?
08:17:03 >>REBECCA KERT: Maybe if you verify, I tell what you is
08:17:06 considered substantial competent evidence.
08:17:08 That is expert testimony for both facts and opinion and
08:17:12 nonexpert or lay testimony as to facts only.
08:17:17 >>LISA MONTELIONE: So if a survey -- where does a survey
08:17:21 small is it fact, is it opinion?
08:17:24 >>REBECCA KERT: I haven't seen the survey to know whether
08:17:26 it was opinion.
08:17:27 If it was strictly opinion it is not substantial
08:17:29 competent evidence unless it is testified to by an
08:17:32 expert.
08:17:33 That being said, if it had, if the survey contains some
08:17:37 facts in it, then would you give it the weight you would
08:17:39 give a survey that you don't know who exactly is
08:17:42 providing you with that information based upon what
08:17:44 you've heard tonight.
08:17:46 >>LISA MONTELIONE: From what I saw in my packet, I
08:17:48 haven't, I don't think we were provided with a copy of
08:17:51 the survey either.
08:17:52 Can I ask you though about some of the things that the
08:17:59 applicant's counsel provided with us.
08:18:03 I'm not sure that you, if you have a copy of that.
08:18:06 She might have an extra one.
08:18:08 If you look at the pages behind the last photograph, the
08:18:22 last photograph, there are affidavits and there are
08:18:24 several of them.
08:18:26 What's the weight that these affidavits would hold?
08:18:30 That they're sworn and notarized.
08:18:32 >> They're sworn and notarized.
08:18:34 They state that they are someone and they provide the
08:18:36 address and say they have no objection to and support the
08:18:39 approval of the 3:00 a.m. zoning for liquor sales and
08:18:42 consumption.
08:18:43 It appears that it is opinion testimony and therefore it
08:18:48 doesn't qualify substantial competent evidence unless
08:18:50 it's testified to as an expert.
08:18:52 >>LISA MONTELIONE: Okay.
08:18:53 So all things being equal, I think both sides are, that
08:19:00 wipes out both sides, either survey or the evidence here.
08:19:07 >>REBECCA KERT: Gainings, I know it's very frustrating
08:19:09 for the people.
08:19:10 It's not anyone doesn't care what they're thing, but from
08:19:13 judicial standpoint, you are sitting as quasi-judicial
08:19:16 capacity.
08:19:17 Whatever decision you make will only be upheld if it is
08:19:21 based on substantial competent evidence, and lay opinion
08:19:24 testimony does not qualify as that.
08:19:25 But certainly factual testimony does.
08:19:27 >>LISA MONTELIONE: Thank you.
08:19:28 Mr. Sousa, in looking at the waivers here, we often, the
08:19:37 first one is the business from 250 feet to 21 feet.
08:19:41 We often grant waivers because restaurants like to
08:19:46 operate and open next to other restaurants.
08:19:48 They drive each other's businesses, correct?
08:19:51 >> Correct.
08:19:52 >>LISA MONTELIONE: The second one is allowing AB sales
08:19:55 area in the bicycle parking area on the south side of the
08:19:57 building.
08:19:58 And that is -- we didn't get the site plans beforehand.
08:20:04 That is indicated on the site plan?
08:20:08 >> Yes, ma'am.
08:20:09 Dark line --
08:20:11 >>LISA MONTELIONE: The north --
08:20:14 >> Follows the sidewalk that wraps around.
08:20:17 >>LISA MONTELIONE: So if we grant that, they wouldn't
08:20:24 need a special event permit are for having an outdoor
08:20:31 event.
08:20:32 >> That is correct.
08:20:33 >>LISA MONTELIONE: The third one increase percentage of
08:20:35 compact parking spaces, transportation I didn't see that
08:20:38 they had an objection.
08:20:39 Did they?
08:20:41 >> They object, yes, they did object.
08:20:44 Small objection.
08:20:45 Any time you go greater than 10% of one of their
08:20:48 requirements, like from 65 to 75, that they call
08:20:54 inconsistent.
08:20:57 >>LISA MONTELIONE: They just find it inconsistent.
08:20:59 So it's not really an objection?
08:21:00 >> Yes, ma'am.
08:21:01 >>LISA MONTELIONE: And then the difference between the
08:21:04 required spaces would be parking spaces would be 29 and
08:21:09 they're requesting 26.
08:21:10 So it's only three.
08:21:12 >> Allowances for the motorcycle and the bicycle parking
08:21:14 places.
08:21:15 >>LISA MONTELIONE: Okay.
08:21:16 All right.
08:21:17 Only questions.
08:21:18 Thank you very much.
08:21:18 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Mr. Cohen?
08:21:21 >>HARRY COHEN: Very briefly.
08:21:21 Miss Kert, I just want to clarify something for
08:21:25 everyone's benefit because I think we can't stress this
08:21:29 enough.
08:21:29 What we have done in the past on other applications is
08:21:33 totally irrelevant to our determination here tonight,
08:21:35 correct?
08:21:36 >>REBECCA KERT: Yes.
08:21:37 It is.
08:21:38 >>HARRY COHEN: This application stands on its own merits.
08:21:42 So whether or not we have ever wet zoned an entire
08:21:44 building or not is really not relevant to our decision
08:21:48 tonight, even though I think Councilwoman Montelione did
08:21:52 in fact establish that we had.
08:21:54 >>REBECCA KERT: Yes.
08:21:55 I would just say to clarify that, you do need to treat
08:21:58 similarly situated situations -- similarly.
08:22:05 [ Laughter ]
08:22:07 >>REBECCA KERT: That being said, each situation is going
08:22:10 to be factually different.
08:22:12 So you're not bound because you've done one thing in the
08:22:14 past to do it in the future.
08:22:16 >>HARRY COHEN: Thank you.
08:22:17 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Are there any other questions of Council
08:22:19 before I go forward?
08:22:20 Petitioner, I do have a question, if I could.
08:22:24 Obviously the old Seminole Heights Neighborhood
08:22:29 Association has been a pretty strong advocate in terms of
08:22:33 the limitations on these applications concerning the
08:22:37 hours of operation.
08:22:39 Closing hours specifically.
08:22:40 Did you get a chance to meet with the group and talk to
08:22:46 them about what their thoughts were concerning this use
08:22:50 and the timeframe?
08:22:54 >> We did.
08:22:54 We attended a board meeting and really told them what we
08:22:57 told you.
08:22:58 And they have chosen not to support it despite that fact.
08:23:04 >>MIKE SUAREZ: In terms of the number of years, obviously
08:23:06 Miss Graham has been a pioneer here in Seminole Heights,
08:23:10 I'm just wondering why the disconnect between the
08:23:12 neighborhood association and her in terms of that.
08:23:15 It's obviously been something that they've been pushing
08:23:18 quite sometime.
08:23:18 Was there something specific about the use that it needed
08:23:23 to have the 3:00 a.m. or was it?
08:23:26 >> The only concerns I heard were the same concerns that
08:23:29 we heard tonight, you know, in parking and distance
08:23:33 separation and you know, if she would agree to some other
08:23:38 hours, then they would support her.
08:23:40 But there was nothing really more concrete than that.
08:23:43 >>MIKE SUAREZ: The hours seem to be the sticking point
08:23:45 more than anything else.
08:23:46 And if I'm not mistaken, you have a restaurant that will
08:23:50 be going in there, a wine shop and bar.
08:23:53 Ice cream shop, primarily.
08:23:55 Those are the primary uses for the spaces.
08:23:58 >> There are five spaces.
08:23:59 Technically there are five spaces but the restaurant is
08:24:02 going to use three.
08:24:03 Remaining two will be a wine store and then their goal
08:24:08 will be an ice cream shop.
08:24:10 >>MIKE SUAREZ: I guess in terms of the business plan,
08:24:11 business plan is to, obviously you're going to have this
08:24:14 restaurant open until 3:00 a.m.
08:24:16 The wine bar would assume till 3:00 a.m.
08:24:19 Not sure ice cream shop will be open till 3:00 a.m.
08:24:23 It's possible I guess.
08:24:24 If you're along the beach, definitely would be open till
08:24:26 3:00 a.m.
08:24:27 So I was just curious because this was some discussion
08:24:30 about the whole building being zoned this way in order to
08:24:33 allow for alcoholic sales.
08:24:37 And so technically I guess or legally it is allowed in
08:24:41 each one of those spaces, is that correct?
08:24:44 >> I believe so, yes.
08:24:45 Realistically these tenants may not be open till
08:24:48 3:00 a.m.
08:24:49 But certainly if there's demand, they'd liking to have
08:24:52 that competitive advantage.
08:24:55 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Mr. Miranda?
08:24:58 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: Apologize for asking, and the
08:25:01 semantics of those five units, of which three are a
08:25:05 restaurant what size square foot is the restaurant?
08:25:09 >> It is on the site plan, but I will...
08:25:12 The restaurant is 3110.
08:25:21 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: How many seats in that restaurant of
08:25:23 3110 feet?
08:25:25 >> There is maximum occupant load of 99.
08:25:27 For the same issues we have heard about.
08:25:30 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: I assume you have dishwashers, at
08:25:33 least two cooks and one, you know, one individual making
08:25:37 the prep for the two cooks or maybe three cooks.
08:25:42 I'm not sure what you're going to sell in the restaurant.
08:25:44 And you got to have for 99 at least four servers.
08:25:49 >> Sure.
08:25:51 [ Laughter ]
08:25:52 >>MIKE SUAREZ: I think this would qualify as expert
08:25:58 testimony considering...
08:26:00 [ Laughter ]
08:26:01 >>MIKE SUAREZ: -- Mr. Miranda's background and his
08:26:03 experience as owner and a restaurateur.
08:26:06 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: Then I would imagine you'd have an
08:26:08 overall -- you're going to have at least nine to ten
08:26:12 people in there, minimum, I think, and where are they
08:26:16 going to park?
08:26:17 >> Again, my client has secured a lease with a property
08:26:20 owner, neighbor on Florida Avenue, for up to 22 spots.
08:26:26 We're asking for a waiver of three.
08:26:28 But ultimately she can have 22.
08:26:30 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: And I want to vote for this but I have
08:26:32 so many -- in other words, when, I said it earlier in the
08:26:38 zoning before this one, a lease means at present time.
08:26:43 But if you're successful and that individual wants to do
08:26:46 something that somebody offers them a lot more money,
08:26:49 you're gone from that lease.
08:26:51 And then what happens?
08:26:52 You got that, he got his money and I'm left holding the
08:26:56 bag.
08:26:57 >> I can't argue with that.
08:26:59 The only thing I can say, we're asking for a waiver for
08:27:02 three spots.
08:27:03 Ultimately.
08:27:06 But we have secured more than that.
08:27:08 At the present time.
08:27:10 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Any more comments or questions of
08:27:14 petitioner before we go forward?
08:27:16 She is going to have the last word.
08:27:18 Are there any other comments that you have petitioner on
08:27:20 this particular case?
08:27:22 >> You know, I would just say again, the response here
08:27:25 has been overwhelming in support.
08:27:27 So we're asking you to support a loaning standing
08:27:31 Seminole Heights business own hero is just trying to
08:27:33 further the vision for another great spot in Tampa.
08:27:36 We're asking for your support.
08:27:37 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Thank you what is the pleasure of Council.
08:27:41 >> Move to close.
08:27:42 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Motion to close by Ms. Capin, sec from
08:27:45 Ms. Montelione.
08:27:45 All in favor of that motion, please indicate by saying
08:27:47 aye.
08:27:47 Any opposed?
08:27:49 Thank you.
08:27:50 Who wants to take up item number 6?
08:27:53 >>YVONNE CAPIN: I'll move it.
08:27:54 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Okay, Ms. Capin.
08:27:56 >>YVONNE CAPIN: An ordinance being presented for first
08:27:58 reading consideration, repealing special use S-1
08:28:02 experiments, V 12-277 approving a special use permit S-2
08:28:06 for alcoholic beverage sales small venue on premise
08:28:10 consumption, package sales off premise consumption and
08:28:13 making lawful the sale of beverages regardless of
08:28:16 alcoholic content, beer, wine, liquor on that certain
08:28:19 lot, plot or tract of land located at 6701 to 6707 North
08:28:25 Florida Avenue, Tampa, Florida, as more particularly
08:28:28 described in section 3, that all ordinances or parts of
08:28:31 ordinances in conflict are repealed, providing an
08:28:34 effective date, and that the hours of operation between
08:28:39 first and second reading are noted consistent with
08:28:44 chapter 14.
08:28:45 >> Second.
08:28:46 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Okay, I have motion from Ms. Capin, second
08:28:49 from Ms. Montelione.
08:28:50 All knows favor of that motion, please indicate by saying
08:28:51 aye.
08:28:52 Any opposed?
08:28:55 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: Nay.
08:28:57 >>THE CLERK: Motion carried with Reddick being absent and
08:28:59 Miranda voting no.
08:29:01 [ Applause ]
08:29:01 >>MIKE SUAREZ: We got a meeting to go.
08:29:06 >>THE CLERK: Second reading and adoption will be may
08:29:08 19th at 9:30 a.m.
08:29:09 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Thank you.
08:29:10 Please, members of the public, could be quiet while we
08:29:14 move out, I appreciate it.
08:29:15 Thank you so much.
08:29:16 Ladies and gentlemen, we have a very long meeting so far.
08:29:20 I think we will take a recess for five minutes.
08:29:23 Be back here at 8:35.
08:29:26 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Tampa City Council is called back in to
08:37:19 order.
08:37:20 Clerk, call the roll, please.
08:37:23 [Roll Call]
08:37:25 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Please, we are back in order.
08:37:26 If you could find a seat.
08:37:28 We are now back in order.
08:37:29 Thank you, clerk.
08:37:30 [Roll Call]
08:37:34 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: Here.
08:37:36 >>HARRY COHEN: Here are.
08:37:37 >>GUIDO MANISCALCO: Here.
08:37:39 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Here.
08:37:40 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Okay, next up is item number 7, AB
08:37:44 2-16-06.
08:37:46 Before we start, is there anyone that has not been sworn
08:37:48 in for this particular hearing or the next hearing?
08:37:52 7 and 8, that wants to speak before us.
08:37:55 If you have not been sworn, please stand up and be sworn
08:37:58 at this time.
08:37:59 No one?
08:38:00 Anyone?
08:38:02 Okay.
08:38:03 Thank you.
08:38:04 Mr. Sousa.
08:38:17 >> Joel Sousa, land development.
08:38:20 Next case AB 2-16-06.
08:38:23 The property address is 5908 North Armenia.
08:38:26 Applicant name is Blue Torch Cigar, Inc., current zoning
08:38:30 is commercial intensity.
08:38:33 They're requesting a small venue, beer and wine on
08:38:37 premises consumption and retail packet sales off premises
08:38:42 consumption.
08:38:42 AB sales area is total of 4,746 square feet, of which
08:38:48 654.1 square feet is outside.
08:38:51 Their alcohol, request of alcohol sales hours are Monday
08:38:55 through Thursday, 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
08:38:57 Friday through Saturday, 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m. and
08:39:00 Sunday 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
08:39:04 According to the applicant, application submitted the
08:39:07 site is developed, existing one story structure.
08:39:10 14,475 square feet floor area.
08:39:14 The last permitted use of this structure was a warehouse.
08:39:18 Special use site plan says the proposed use of retail of
08:39:22 2,402 square feet, a warehouse of 7,327 square feet and
08:39:28 the retail cigar bar of 4,091.9 square feet.
08:39:33 The proposed occupant load retail cigars a bar is 97
08:39:38 persons.
08:39:38 Site plan indicates those hours as I just mentioned.
08:39:42 Site plan shows existing parking conditions in the front
08:39:44 of Armenia and proposed expansion of the parking area in
08:39:48 the rear off Idlewild avenue.
08:39:51 Total of 26 spaces are provided.
08:39:53 They're requesting three waivers.
08:39:56 The first waiver is reduction and required distance
08:39:59 separation of AB sales area from 250 feet to 208.
08:40:03 The second is to allow reduction of drive aisle width
08:40:08 from 18 feet to 13 feet and parking space depth from
08:40:11 17.8 feet to 13.8 feet.
08:40:15 Reduction required of off-street parking spaces, going
08:40:18 from 36 to 26.
08:40:20 You have listed in your staff report as a fourth waiver
08:40:24 to allow access on a local street, that request is not
08:40:28 required per the transportation division.
08:40:30 If you go down Idlewild another 100, 200 feet you'll run
08:40:34 into the county.
08:40:35 Transportation says local street that enters into the
08:40:38 county is not applicable for this waiver.
08:40:40 The application fails to comply with the separation
08:40:45 distance requirement for residential uses.
08:40:47 And find it inconsistent with that code.
08:40:53 There are some required revisions to the site plan
08:40:56 between first and second reading if Council is so
08:41:01 inclined to approve.
08:41:03 Let me show you some pictures.
08:41:04 This is Armenia Avenue going north.
08:41:11 This is the subject warehouse and complex here.
08:41:19 Number of commercial uses up and down the street.
08:41:22 Here's a new remodeled front facade area.
08:41:27 This is on the northside of the property looking down
08:41:31 Idlewild.
08:41:32 This is typical house along Idlewild.
08:41:35 Looking south on Armenia Avenue.
08:41:40 And this is looking north along Armenia Avenue.
08:41:44 If there are any questions, petitioner is here also.
08:41:49 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Petitioner?
08:41:55 >> Good evening, Mr. Chairman, members of Council, my
08:42:02 name is Joseph Diaz, 1907 West Kennedy Boulevard.
08:42:06 I'm here on behalf of the applicant Blue Torch Cigars,
08:42:10 Inc.
08:42:10 As Mr. Sousa just pointed out, we need three waivers.
08:42:17 The first waiver is the one distance separation from
08:42:20 residential zoned property.
08:42:21 We are located on the southeast -- excuse me, southwest
08:42:28 corner of Armenia and Idlewild.
08:42:30 The closest residence is across the street from Armenia
08:42:36 behind the commercial development.
08:42:38 So that is that 208-foot separation that we are seeking
08:42:44 the waiver from.
08:42:45 There is a commercial development between us and that
08:42:48 residential structure.
08:42:49 The next two waivers that we're dealing with, there's
08:42:57 just no way for us to get arounds it.
08:43:00 This building was constructed in 1965.
08:43:04 And at that time, that was the parking layout for this
08:43:09 property.
08:43:09 At one time used to be Armenia nursery used to be at this
08:43:16 location, excuse me, right to the south of it.
08:43:18 Then this was the retail business that was associated
08:43:22 with the old Armenia nursery.
08:43:24 My clients have purchased that property and have now made
08:43:26 this development.
08:43:27 Going to have my client talk to you shortly.
08:43:30 You're going to see my client has been in the tobacco
08:43:34 import business for quite sometime now.
08:43:36 And so the hopes are we have been mostly wholesaling our
08:43:42 products.
08:43:42 We are now going to have the warehouse space that we're
08:43:45 going to use to store the tobacco products that we bring
08:43:48 in from the Dominican and Nicaragua and hope to open a
08:43:54 retail establishment.
08:43:56 The hours of operation go, already went over them with
08:44:05 you.
08:44:06 I'm not quite sure how to address this issue because I
08:44:12 talked to city staff about it.
08:44:14 The property immediately to the south of our property, it
08:44:20 adjoins it.
08:44:21 It is part of a single continuous parking lot.
08:44:26 My client's father just bought that property last
08:44:29 Thursday from the federal government.
08:44:31 They had seized it from the prior owner and we have
08:44:33 submitted a pending application to the city for design
08:44:36 exception waiver that we would not need any parking
08:44:40 waivers.
08:44:40 But the application that is pending before you today does
08:44:45 require a ten space waiver.
08:44:48 I'd like to have my client get up here and tell you a
08:44:57 little about.
08:45:01 >> The map is upside down.
08:45:04 >> Thank you.
08:45:11 >> This is the property I was just referencing to you
08:45:13 right now.
08:45:14 And even though it may be difficult to make out, all the
08:45:17 way from Idlewild down to here, it is one continuous
08:45:23 parking lot.
08:45:24 And it's been like that forever.
08:45:27 Let my client tell you a little bit about his operations,
08:45:36 then I'll be glad to deal with any questions you might
08:45:39 have.
08:45:39 >> Good evening, Councilmembers, my name is Felix Lopez.
08:45:46 Born and raised here in Tampa.
08:45:47 Been here my whole life.
08:45:50 Grew up on Wellswood, attended Christ the king, Jesuit,
08:45:54 even the University of Tampa.
08:45:55 We started, this business is a family business.
08:45:59 I entered into this with, as far as the manufacturing
08:46:03 wholesale side with my brother-in-law.
08:46:06 And we started back in 2010.
08:46:09 We have traveled and created our blends in Nicaragua and
08:46:15 the Dominican Republic.
08:46:16 One of my first trips to Nicaragua, one of the biggest
08:46:22 tobacco growers, bigger than the local Alevea, is the
08:46:28 Placentia family, and the owner of the Placentia family,
08:46:31 as soon as he heard, oh, you're from Tampa, cigar capital
08:46:35 of the world.
08:46:36 That kind of stayed with me.
08:46:38 And you know, we decided that importing the cigars and
08:46:43 having distribution come out of Miami, would be better
08:46:47 suited to change to the Tampa area, which is the driving
08:46:52 force behind the purchase of this building in the first
08:46:55 place.
08:46:56 We would like to maybe some day potentially do some type
08:47:01 of maybe manufacturing as well.
08:47:03 But, you know, just very, you know, my grandmother would
08:47:09 tell me stories about my great grandfather that had a
08:47:13 cigar shop factory in Cuba and she would tell me when she
08:47:16 was a little girl how she learned how to roll cigars
08:47:19 early.
08:47:19 My brother-in-law, which is my partner on the wholesale
08:47:22 side, his great grandfather had the cigar factory in Ybor
08:47:27 City in the early 1900s.
08:47:30 Palermo.
08:47:33 So we have some deep roots in cigars.
08:47:36 It's been a passion, almost considered an art when we get
08:47:39 to create something unique and different.
08:47:45 We decided that we wanted to enter into the retail part
08:47:51 of the business, which is why we created Blue Torch.
08:47:57 We had this sufficient space and we wanted to do
08:48:02 something that, because this economy, this cigar
08:48:07 business, any business really can have ups and downs from
08:48:09 both sides.
08:48:10 And you know, I have an eight-year-old son and
08:48:14 25-year-old daughters that attend St. Lawrence.
08:48:18 My sister has twins due herself in July.
08:48:23 My family actually, my siblings anyway, my father, we are
08:48:30 based and work around this and we all contribute in some
08:48:35 way, shape or form.
08:48:36 My intentions are not to have a bar.
08:48:39 I don't want liquor in there.
08:48:42 I don't want to give the impression that I don't want the
08:48:46 type of people to come in off the streets, you know, I
08:48:49 don't know the right way to word it.
08:48:51 But you know, it's a different demographic I'm looking
08:48:54 for.
08:48:54 I'm looking for and typically the cigars that I sell or
08:48:58 that I manufacture myself and that we propose to carry
08:49:02 will be in the 7 plus dollar price point, not, you know,
08:49:09 not a cigar you pick up at CBS or ABC liquor.
08:49:13 So we're, you know, and I'm not an alcoholic drinker
08:49:18 myself.
08:49:19 I have a cigar, I enjoy a cappuccino or espresso.
08:49:25 But the nature of the business isn't necessarily what I
08:49:27 want but it is my experience with all the cities I've
08:49:30 traveled to and the different cigar retail shops or
08:49:33 lounges that carry our brand, it is something that goes
08:49:39 hand in hand a lot of the time.
08:49:41 Men, women like to come, relax or a woman that's not
08:49:45 inclined to smoke a cigar but wants to come with her
08:49:48 husband, drink a glass of wine, may want to watch a game
08:49:55 while relaxing and smoking a cigar.
08:49:57 First and foremost, it's a retail shop.
08:50:00 I'm investing a lot of money for online web site.
08:50:06 But there is that aspect of it that people will come in,
08:50:10 I feel to be competitive, we, if we opened the cigar shop
08:50:15 and didn't have this, we would probably be the only one
08:50:19 that I know of in the Tampa area that doesn't.
08:50:23 You know.
08:50:24 That's about it.
08:50:29 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Any questions from Council of the
08:50:32 petitioner?
08:50:34 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: What's the name of the cigars?
08:50:36 >> My brand cigar?
08:50:38 I have two brands, I have La Vita, which we created back
08:50:42 in 2010.
08:50:43 And then most recently we purchased La Buena Vis, the
08:50:48 trademark from Davidoff cigars.
08:50:54 >>MIKE SUAREZ: You didn't happen to bring any for the
08:50:56 meeting today?
08:50:57 >> I did not bring any.
08:51:00 [ Laughter ]
08:51:00 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Thank you.
08:51:02 Is there anyone in the public that would like to speak on
08:51:05 this item?
08:51:06 Item number 7, AB 2-16-06.
08:51:10 Sir?
08:51:14 >> My name is Tim Euler.
08:51:15 I'm the head of school at Cambridge Christian school.
08:51:19 I have some friends with me today because of the last
08:51:25 lengthy conversation we just had, I decided not to have
08:51:28 them speak.
08:51:29 Would it be okay if they're recognized by standing up?
08:51:34 If I could have everybody stand, that would be great.
08:51:36 If you want them all to speak, we can swear them in.
08:51:44 >>MIKE SUAREZ: I think they've already been sworn in.
08:51:46 If they haven't, after 17 times I've asked, I'd be very
08:51:50 surprised.
08:51:50 >> What I actually was hoping, I'm from Seminole Heights,
08:51:52 would really like to hit the front porch before I go to
08:51:55 bed tonight.
08:51:56 [ Laughter ]
08:52:00 >> I've prepared a document for you.
08:52:02 As I said, I'm head of school at Cambridge Christian
08:52:10 school.
08:52:10 We are within a thousand feet of this proposal.
08:52:15 And Cambridge has been around about, little over 51 years
08:52:19 now.
08:52:20 Used to be known as Seminole Presbyterian, was with
08:52:23 Seminole Presbyterian church.
08:52:25 In 2005, December of 2005, we purchased this property
08:52:32 that is in the yellow portion, the back portion.
08:52:34 You'll see the baseball field right there.
08:52:36 The property that's in question is the property that's in
08:52:40 the red.
08:52:41 And the wet zone buffer is a thousand feet from the
08:52:47 school zone.
08:52:48 So we're asking for this to be denied based on that, that
08:52:52 the testimony you just heard said that they really want a
08:52:56 cigar bar.
08:52:57 So we have no problem with a, with tobacco being sold
08:53:01 there but we're asking that for sake of our students and
08:53:04 staff and parents that it not include the alcohol
08:53:07 license.
08:53:08 The other thing I would add is that, you know, our school
08:53:15 is actively involved in the community.
08:53:17 We have been there, we have future plans and future site
08:53:21 development that is beginning on that back portion.
08:53:23 My guess is I'll be standing before City Council the next
08:53:28 several years requesting some approval for some buildings
08:53:33 where that baseball field, will probably become a school
08:53:36 building.
08:53:37 And so we will have students there the entire time.
08:53:39 Right now that usage is very frequent.
08:53:43 It's not every hour of our school day, but we do P.E.
08:53:47 classes back there.
08:53:48 We have baseball practices back there as well as then
08:53:50 play soccer and middle school football on the football
08:53:54 field that is there.
08:53:55 So we're asking just to deny the alcohol use at this
08:54:00 time.
08:54:01 Again, you said tobacco was the intent of why they wanted
08:54:05 to open it up here.
08:54:07 Thank you.
08:54:08 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Thank you, sir.
08:54:10 Anyone else in the public like to speak at this moment
08:54:13 concerning this particular case?
08:54:14 Council?
08:54:18 Any questions?
08:54:19 Go ahead, sir.
08:54:22 >> My name is Felix Lopez, Junior, I'm the father of the
08:54:26 young man over here.
08:54:27 Actually --
08:54:28 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Mr. Lopez, before you start, are you a,
08:54:30 have a financial interest in this at all?
08:54:32 In terms of the business?
08:54:38 Only reason --
08:54:39 >> I'm part owner of the shopping center and the trustee
08:54:45 of the purchase of the over two acres.
08:54:49 That was purchased and that Mr. Diaz just explained to
08:54:55 you that was added to the property.
08:54:58 >>MIKE SUAREZ: So you have no interest in Blue Torch?
08:55:01 >> No.
08:55:01 >>MIKE SUAREZ: I just wanted to clarify so that Mr. Diaz
08:55:04 knows in terms of what his timeframe is.
08:55:08 >> I have a minute or two or whatever it is.
08:55:11 >>MIKE SUAREZ: I apologize.
08:55:12 >> I'm not going to take too much of your time.
08:55:14 What I want to emphasize is when I purchased that
08:55:18 property, I purchased it mainly for the reason of using
08:55:22 for parking lot.
08:55:23 For my son's, because he needed it.
08:55:27 And it's too big of a property, I'm willing to do just
08:55:31 about anything.
08:55:32 I met with the school superintendent as well as this
08:55:37 board member this past Sunday, trying to work out based
08:55:43 on what he just told you, that he wants to build where
08:55:46 the baseball field and I told him that I'm open to
08:55:49 anything.
08:55:50 Actually, I would sell him a part of an entrance so he
08:55:54 can entrance into the new building.
08:55:58 I'm a good neighbor.
08:55:59 I think I walked trained entire neighborhood.
08:56:01 There's a lot of Spanish people that live there I'm
08:56:04 friends with them, dripping coffee with them.
08:56:07 Sigh them in the restaurant.
08:56:08 So I think I wanted to work with the school.
08:56:12 We're still negotiating that portion.
08:56:14 With the school.
08:56:16 As a matter of fact, because we didn't finish the
08:56:18 negotiation prior to coming over here, that's the reason
08:56:21 that he's here.
08:56:22 If we would've negotiated --
08:56:24 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Mr. Lopez, I think if you could, keep your
08:56:27 comments to the issue at hand.
08:56:30 >> That's the issue.
08:56:31 The issue is that I purchased that, actually I've been a
08:56:34 good neighbor, like I said, and we're willing to actually
08:56:37 work out with them and it's not going to be actually a
08:56:42 detrimental to the school because they're using that road
08:56:45 there and right now that road is not, the kids should not
08:56:50 be using that ride at all.
08:56:51 They're using that road as an is being says to the school
08:56:55 from the east side and that's an illegal entrance to a
08:56:58 neighborhood for that many cars.
08:57:01 That's what I stated because he said that they don't want
08:57:05 the kids to be Butching into an alcoholic thing.
08:57:08 >> I totally understand.
08:57:09 Okay.
08:57:10 Before we go forward, sir, you've spoken already.
08:57:12 No, you can't.
08:57:14 I apologize.
08:57:15 Mr. Diaz, you know, obviously Mr. Lopez is, was more of
08:57:23 an advocate on your side than what you may have thought
08:57:25 he was going to say.
08:57:27 Of course a lot of the issues that were brought up have
08:57:29 nothing to do with the application.
08:57:31 [audio interference]
08:57:37 >>MIKE SUAREZ: I'm not sure what happened, Mr. Diaz,
08:57:39 don't think it was you.
08:57:41 Is there any other questions of the petitioner yet before
08:57:43 we let, go to the final thing?
08:57:46 Anyone else in the public like to speak on this issue
08:57:49 before we go forward?
08:57:51 I see no one else.
08:57:53 Mr. Miranda?
08:57:56 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: I just want to make a statement, the
08:57:58 only thing we are hearing is the wet zoning on this
08:58:01 address.
08:58:01 Anything else regarding ingress and egress has nothing to
08:58:05 do with this hearing.
08:58:06 That's not before me.
08:58:08 And I want -- I'm not a lawyer but I want to be clearly
08:58:11 on the matter that anything that's said between two
08:58:14 parties is not refuse lent to this hearing.
08:58:18 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Well said, sir.
08:58:19 Any other questions or comments before we go forward?
08:58:21 Mr. Cohen?
08:58:25 >>HARRY COHEN: You know, there's two different things
08:58:27 being asked for here.
08:58:28 On premises consumption and also package sales for off
08:58:32 premises consumption.
08:58:34 And I'm wondering if the school has more of an objection
08:58:39 to one than the other.
08:58:41 And so that is just my first question of the man that
08:58:47 spoke.
08:58:48 And then I want to ask our staff a follow-up question.
08:58:52 Just a yes or no is all I'm looking for on that, or just
08:58:57 one sentence answer.
08:58:58 >> We're just opposed to the consumption portion on
08:59:01 property.
08:59:02 >>HARRY COHEN: You're opposed to the on premises is the?
08:59:06 Not the off premises?
08:59:07 >> Not the off premise also.
08:59:09 If he wants to sell and they leave, that's perfectly
08:59:13 fine.
08:59:14 >>HARRY COHEN: Just of our staff, normally when there is
08:59:19 a school within a thousand feet of one of these
08:59:22 applications, that is noted and that's an issue for us to
08:59:27 deal with.
08:59:28 Why are we not seeing that?
08:59:33 >> Made a determination this is a retail cigar bar.
08:59:36 A true bar lounge is one establishment whose income is
08:59:41 primarily from the sale and consumption of alcoholic
08:59:45 beverages.
08:59:46 She's made a determines that in this case that the retail
08:59:51 sales of cigars is going to outweigh the sale of beer and
08:59:56 wine in this situation, on this property.
09:00:00 >>HARRY COHEN: So I guess my question then for Miss Kert
09:00:04 would be -- I mean...
09:00:09 [pause]
09:00:15 [ Laughter ]
09:00:16 >>HARRY COHEN: What are we allowed to consider and not
09:00:20 consider in evaluating this?
09:00:22 If that's what the zoning administrator's determination
09:00:25 is, then they're not asking for a waiver of that
09:00:29 provision of the code.
09:00:34 >>REBECCA KERT: Okay.
09:00:35 Rebecca Kert, legal department.
09:00:38 Your staff has testified as to what the correct waivers
09:00:41 are.
09:00:42 So therefore I can only tell you that as a specific
09:00:48 waiver, they're telling you that it's not required.
09:00:50 You still have your general standards that you can look
09:00:53 at.
09:00:53 But what he's telling you is they don't have that
09:00:57 additional burden of proving, of justifying the waiver
09:01:03 from the school.
09:01:04 So you can hear the facts and the testimony that was
09:01:08 presented to you and consider it through your general
09:01:10 standards if any of those apply to this situation.
09:01:13 But they don't have the extra burden of justifying a
09:01:16 waiver based upon what your staff has told you the
09:01:18 waivers are required.
09:01:20 >>HARRY COHEN: Thank you.
09:01:22 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Any other questions?
09:01:23 Ms. Montelione?
09:01:24 >>LISA MONTELIONE: Thank you.
09:01:25 Mr. Sousa, can you once again show us on the map where
09:01:32 the other AB sales location is?
09:01:37 Because it says, the waiver they're asking is from
09:01:40 250 feet to 208 feet.
09:01:45 >> That's single-family residence, right?
09:01:48 It says 208 feet to single-family residence.
09:01:53 >>LISA MONTELIONE: Oh, to residential use.
09:01:54 I'm sorry.
09:01:55 So there's no other AB sales establishment?
09:02:00 Because there is a pizza shop right there that I see.
09:02:04 >> Amazingly not, there's not one in this location.
09:02:09 >>LISA MONTELIONE: I just saw the pizza slice thing
09:02:12 there.
09:02:12 They usually sell beer.
09:02:14 You would think.
09:02:17 Okay.
09:02:18 And the parking space depth from 17.8 to 13.8, is that
09:02:24 the depth of, like on the last one, I'm usually compact
09:02:29 spaces is what's referred to.
09:02:31 But this is 17.8 to 13.8.
09:02:35 So is 13.8 the compact space?
09:02:39 >> No, it's the requirement of the transportation code.
09:02:42 Somebody from transportation explain that, I would, but
09:02:45 they're saying it's less than 10% of the required,
09:02:50 they're required to get a waiver.
09:02:51 The request is greater than the 10%, they're required to
09:02:56 get a waiver.
09:02:57 >>LISA MONTELIONE: The photograph that's in your report,
09:03:01 this stripe spaces are, I'm assuming they're already at
09:03:07 13.8?
09:03:10 They're not going to re-stripe the parking lot.
09:03:13 >> No, they're not.
09:03:14 They do have to provide that parking spot in the back
09:03:17 though.
09:03:17 I believe they're requesting the angled spot in the front
09:03:20 that you're looking at.
09:03:22 >>LISA MONTELIONE: Okay.
09:03:25 You know, the difficulty I have with the objections by
09:03:32 the school is that the closest distance is to the ball
09:03:41 field.
09:03:41 The school and the majority of that, activity of the
09:03:44 school is way on the other side.
09:03:46 And it seems that it's athletic, the athletic field and
09:03:52 then a really big green space.
09:03:55 Are those soccer fields?
09:03:57 Do you know, Mr. Sousa?
09:03:59 >> Which?
09:04:00 >>LISA MONTELIONE: Right on the map.
09:04:01 This right here.
09:04:03 Just north of the baseball field.
09:04:06 >> I don't have your map.
09:04:07 >>LISA MONTELIONE: There's plenty of copies.
09:04:12 >>LISA MONTELIONE: I see a basketball court over here on
09:04:26 Scorpio circle.
09:04:27 It's obvious.
09:04:30 >> Yes, ma'am.
09:04:43 Could be very well soccer field.
09:04:48 >>LISA MONTELIONE: If this distance waiver was requested.
09:04:55 I mean Mr. Cohen pointed out, it's usually a thousand
09:04:59 feet.
09:04:59 But staff didn't even feel the alcohol, the beer and wine
09:05:02 would be enough of the revenues to even consider it, I'm
09:05:09 not, I'm not getting the objection because if our staff
09:05:12 said it's only a small portion of the business, majority
09:05:17 is going to be cigars, then they're objecting to
09:05:24 something that we're not asking.
09:05:26 >> That is correct.
09:05:31 >>HARRY COHEN: Mr. Diaz, I want to ask you one question.
09:05:33 Why are you asking for the access to the local street?
09:05:37 >> I'm not.
09:05:38 That waiver has been removed.
09:05:40 Joel -- I met with Melanie and staff has removed that.
09:05:46 There's only three waivers before you.
09:05:48 >>HARRY COHEN: Wait.
09:05:48 That's okay.
09:05:49 Just the reason I asked, the only way you can get into
09:05:51 this place then is from Armenia.
09:05:54 >> Well, the way you get into this place if you look at
09:05:57 the site plan, turn right off Armenia on to Idlewild on
09:06:02 that parking space right there.
09:06:04 >>HARRY COHEN: I guess where I'm going with this is that
09:06:07 it seems to me that may take it further from the school
09:06:10 rather than -- if you have the access on to Idlewild,
09:06:16 entrance to the cigar bar would be closer to the school
09:06:19 than it is if it's coming off Armenia.
09:06:22 >> It's right on Armenia.
09:06:25 I mean if we got any closer we'd be on Armenia.
09:06:31 >>HARRY COHEN: Thank you.
09:06:33 >> Mr. Cohen, let me see if I can give you a comfort
09:06:36 level.
09:06:36 I'm going back to discussion that you all had with that
09:06:39 first zoning this evening.
09:06:41 You were concerned that what could happen at this
09:06:44 location if a different use was made.
09:06:47 We have no objection whatsoever conditioning the sale of
09:06:54 alcoholic beverages on this location to be tied to a
09:06:59 retail cigar store are.
09:07:01 We have no objection whatsoever.
09:07:03 Because I know on that first zoning, you were expressing
09:07:06 some concerns and we'll clarify it.
09:07:09 We don't want to put a bar here.
09:07:10 We want to be a retail cigar establishment.
09:07:13 That's what we want to be.
09:07:14 So if that will give you any further comfort, we'll be
09:07:18 more than glad to add it to the site plan.
09:07:22 >>HARRY COHEN: Thank you.
09:07:23 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Mr. Miranda?
09:07:24 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: I'm just going to make a comment.
09:07:26 I think Mr. Diaz said is the intent of the AB 2 zoning.
09:07:33 Am I way off base here or what?
09:07:35 That's what it is.
09:07:40 You can write what you want.
09:07:42 That's it.
09:07:43 >> We have no problem with that.
09:07:46 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Ms. Capin?
09:07:49 >>YVONNE CAPIN: You don't have to condition it.
09:07:50 It is what it is.
09:07:51 We're good.
09:07:54 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Any other questions or comments from
09:07:57 petitioner before we go to his final comments?
09:07:59 Petitioner, with your rebuttal.
09:08:02 >> No, sir, I mean you've heard the only objection is the
09:08:05 objection to the waiver and we don't need that waiver.
09:08:09 That waiver is just not existent in this application.
09:08:13 We do need a waiver from that residence located across
09:08:15 the street.
09:08:16 We do need ten parking space waiver, which we eventually
09:08:19 hope to resolve with the AB design exception.
09:08:22 And unfortunately we can't reconfigure the parking on the
09:08:26 front of the building.
09:08:27 It is what it is.
09:08:27 It was built in '65.
09:08:29 So we would respectfully request your approval.
09:08:34 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Okay.
09:08:34 What's the pleasure of Council I have a motion to close
09:08:37 by Mr. Miranda, second from Mrs. Capin.
09:08:40 All in favor of that motion, please indicate by saying
09:08:41 aye.
09:08:41 All right.
09:08:44 Mr. Cohen, would you like to take number 7?
09:08:47 >>HARRY COHEN: Sure.
09:08:48 Thank you, Mr. Chair.
09:08:49 I move an answer being presented for first reading
09:08:51 consideration, an ordinance approving a special use
09:08:53 permit S-2 for alcoholic beverage sales small venue on
09:08:57 premises consumption and retail package sales off
09:08:59 premises consumption and making lawful the sale of beer
09:09:02 and wine at or from that certain lot, plot or tract of
09:09:02 land located at 5908 North Armenia Avenue, Tampa,
09:09:08 Florida, as more particularly described in section 2,
09:09:11 that all ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict
09:09:14 are repealed, providing an effective date.
09:09:17 >> Second.
09:09:18 >>MIKE SUAREZ: I have a motion by Mr. Cohen, second from
09:09:22 Mr. Maniscalco.
09:09:23 All in favor please indicate by saying aye.
09:09:24 Any opposed?
09:09:26 >>THE CLERK: Motion carried with Reddick being absent.
09:09:28 Second reading and adoption will be May 19th at 9:30 a.m.
09:09:32 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Thank you.
09:09:32 Next up is --
09:09:36 >> Thank you very much.
09:09:37 We'll bring cigars.
09:09:38 [ Laughter ]
09:09:39 >>MIKE SUAREZ: No, please don't.
09:09:40 No, no.
09:09:41 Thank you, Mr. Lopez.
09:09:43 Gentlemen, everyone, we are still in a meeting, thank
09:09:50 you.
09:09:51 If you could just be quiet while you leave.
09:09:53 File SWC-16-7, staff?
09:10:00 >>REBECCA KERT: Before staff gives their presentation,
09:10:02 this is a request for sidewalk cafe permit.
09:10:05 You don't see these on a regular basis, so just wanted to
09:10:08 remind you there will be no ordinance to read if you
09:10:11 choose to adopt staff's recommendation of approval, you
09:10:13 will just move approval.
09:10:15 If not, we can talk about that.
09:10:19 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Excuse me for just one moment before you
09:10:20 start.
09:10:21 >> YVONNE CAPIN: The two gentleman sitting in the
09:10:23 audience, are you the ones I ran into at 9:00 in this
09:10:27 morning in the elevator?
09:10:29 >> Not 9:00.
09:10:32 >>YVONNE CAPIN: Oh, it was this afternoon?
09:10:33 I lose track.
09:10:34 [ Laughter ]
09:10:35 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Go ahead, sir.
09:10:42 >> My name is John Marsh, I'm urban planner with the
09:10:46 planning division.
09:10:47 I do sidewalk cafe permits.
09:10:50 This is very unusual.
09:10:51 Most sidewalk cafe permits do not go through any public
09:10:56 process because they're usually in downtown Ybor or the
09:10:59 Channel District.
09:11:00 This is I believe the only second one that you have seen,
09:11:05 but I've gotten inquiries from three others, so we'll
09:11:08 have to probably go through this some more.
09:11:10 This is, the applicant is requesting a sidewalk cafe
09:11:14 permit to provide sidewalk cafe within the public
09:11:17 right-of-way.
09:11:21 All the appropriate departments, which is fire, TPD, risk
09:11:25 management and transportation have reviewed the request
09:11:27 for this permit and have no objections.
09:11:29 This permit if granted would expire on June 30th, 2016.
09:11:34 I won't read all the other.
09:11:40 I believe.
09:11:43 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Upside down, sir.
09:11:45 >> This is, this is part of the redevelopment of Old Hyde
09:11:50 Park Village.
09:11:51 This is looking up Oregon on the right office one.
09:11:58 I think this is the old Wells-Fargo office.
09:12:01 For a long time there.
09:12:04 This is looking south of Oregon.
09:12:08 And the sidewalk cafe is going to take up some of this
09:12:13 space here.
09:12:13 This is another view.
09:12:19 This application has been coordinated with their alcohol
09:12:32 petition as well as the redevelopment of the right-of-way
09:12:36 that is going on because of the Hyde Park project.
09:12:41 This kind of shows the restaurant, where the sidewalk
09:12:44 cafe is going to be over here.
09:12:47 I've blown that up because you couldn't see that anyway.
09:12:52 Just basically the sidewalk cafe permit actually
09:13:00 regulates the precise location of every table and chair.
09:13:04 And if they do deviate from that part of my job is to
09:13:07 work with code enforcement on making sure that they do
09:13:11 comply.
09:13:13 And we have gone so far in some of the downtown locations
09:13:16 where we have had problems with them actually marking
09:13:18 locations in the right-of-way.
09:13:19 So that concludes my presentation.
09:13:22 And I'm available for any questions.
09:13:24 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Thank you.
09:13:24 Petitioner?
09:13:32 >> Good evening, Councilmembers.
09:13:33 My name is Jon Cooper.
09:13:35 I live in Pinellas County.
09:13:37 Born and raised.
09:13:38 My partner -- it is past my bedtime, so you don't have to
09:13:46 worry about any 3:00 a.m. closing hours.
09:13:49 You know, everybody knows Hyde Park Village, it's a
09:13:54 lovely place.
09:13:55 The villages is now reviving and coming back.
09:14:00 We think that the sidewalk cafe would be a great amenity
09:14:04 to the residence of Hyde Park and Hyde Park Village.
09:14:08 And so, there's not much to say about it.
09:14:10 We don't think it would cause any negative impact to
09:14:16 neighbors or the residents in the area.
09:14:19 And again, I think it would be a nice amenity.
09:14:23 Saturday, Sunday brunches.
09:14:25 Lunch and dinner.
09:14:29 Reasonable hours.
09:14:30 Thank you.
09:14:33 Appreciate your consideration.
09:14:34 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Any questions of the petitioner?
09:14:37 Is there anyone in the public that would like to speak on
09:14:40 file SWC 46-7, number 8, anyone?
09:14:44 I see no one.
09:14:45 >> Move to close.
09:14:47 >>MIKE SUAREZ: I have a motion to close by Mr. Miranda,
09:14:49 second from Mr. Cohen.
09:14:49 All in favor of that motion, please indicate by saying
09:14:51 aye.
09:14:51 Any opposed?
09:14:53 Thank you.
09:14:54 Now this is not, has to be read by title, is that
09:14:58 correct, Mr. Shelby?
09:15:00 >>MARTIN SHELBY: No, as Miss Kert instructed, just to
09:15:03 grant approval.
09:15:04 >> Move approval.
09:15:04 >> Second.
09:15:05 >>MIKE SUAREZ: I have a motion from Mr. Cohen, a second
09:15:07 from Ms. Capin to move approval.
09:15:09 All in favor of that motion, please indicate by saying
09:15:11 aye.
09:15:12 Any opposed?
09:15:13 Thank you.
09:15:14 Thank you for attending.
09:15:16 Okay.
09:15:17 Information reports and new business by our members.
09:15:22 Ms. Montelione?
09:15:26 Mr. Maniscalco?
09:15:27 Mr. Cohen?
09:15:29 Ms. Capin?
09:15:30 >>YVONNE CAPIN: I do, but I can't find it.
09:15:32 >>MIKE SUAREZ: We'll skip you and go to Mr. Miranda.
09:15:35 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: None.
09:15:36 >>MIKE SUAREZ: We'll go back to you.
09:15:37 That was quick.
09:15:38 Can we take guesses?
09:15:44 Charades?
09:15:46 How many syllables?
09:15:47 We know it's in there.
09:15:53 >>YVONNE CAPIN: Yes, it is.
09:15:55 >>MIKE SUAREZ: While we are waiting, could I have a
09:15:57 motion to receive and file.
09:15:59 I have a motion by Mr. Cohen, a second from
09:16:01 Mr. Maniscalco.
09:16:02 All in favor of that motion, please indicate by saying
09:16:04 aye.
09:16:04 Any opposed?
09:16:05 Thank you.
09:16:06 Back to Ms. Capin.
09:16:10 [Inaudible]
09:16:18 [ Laughter ]
09:16:19 >> We were all going for breakfast later on.
09:16:28 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Ms. Capin, do you think it was something
09:16:30 we might be able to do at the next regular meeting?
09:16:36 >>YVONNE CAPIN: That's a good question.
09:16:37 A suggestion to not allow the legislative aide to leave.
09:16:48 There it is.
09:16:48 All right.
09:16:49 Ms. Capin.
09:16:53 >>YVONNE CAPIN: I'd like to make a motion to present a
09:16:57 commendation to the American Heart Association, American
09:17:00 Stroke Association on June 2nd, 2016 in recognition of
09:17:03 June 7th being the designated CPR day in Hillsborough
09:17:07 County.
09:17:07 >>MIKE SUAREZ: I have a motion from Ms. Capin second from
09:17:10 Mr. Maniscalco.
09:17:11 All in favor of that motion, please indicate by saying
09:17:12 aye.
09:17:12 Any opposed?
09:17:13 Is there anything else, ma'am?
09:17:16 >>YVONNE CAPIN: No, that's it.
09:17:20 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Anyone in the public like to speak before
09:17:22 this Council?
09:17:22 I see no one.
09:17:23 We are adjourned.
09:17:24
DISCLAIMER:
This file represents an unedited version of realtime
captioning which should neither be relied upon for
complete accuracy nor used as a verbatim transcript.
The original of this file was produced in all capital
letters and any variation thereto may be a result of
third party edits and software compatibility issues.
Any person who needs a verbatim transcript of the
proceedings may need to hire a court reporter.