Tampa City Council
Thursday, May 19, 2016
9:00 a.m. Session
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.
09:03:15
09:04:13 [Sounding gavel]
09:04:15 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Tampa City Council is now called to order.
09:04:17 The chair yields to Mr. Maniscalco for the invocation.
09:04:21 >>GUIDO MANISCALCO: Today it is my distinct pleasure to
09:04:25 welcome Priest Radhakrishnan Namboodiripad of Sri Ayyappa
09:04:25 Temple to City Hall. He has served as the priest for the
09:04:30 temple in Tampa since 2014.
09:04:32 Coming from a long line of spiritual leaders he is a fifth
09:04:35 generation priest in the tradition.
09:04:37 He previously served as the temple which has the fourth
09:04:42 largest following in India. He came to Tampa with his wife
09:04:46 and two sons. Thanks for joining us this morning.
09:04:49 All rise for the invocation.
09:04:52 >> (Chanting mantras)
09:06:02 (Pledge of Allegiance)
09:06:20 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Thank you.
09:06:29 Roll call.
09:06:30 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: Here.
09:06:31 >>FRANK REDDICK: Here.
09:06:32 >>YVONNE CAPIN: Present.
09:06:33 >>HARRY COHEN: Here.
09:06:35 >>GUIDO MANISCALCO: Here.
09:06:37 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Here.
09:06:39 We are going to go first to our approval of the addenda and
09:06:44 agenda.
09:06:45 First item, item number 4 concerns the certificate program.
09:06:51 We have a -- rental certificate program.
09:06:53 We have a request from city attorney Julia Mandell to
09:06:59 continue to June 2nd.
09:07:00 Motion from Mrs. Capin.
09:07:02 Second from Mr. Cohen.
09:07:04 All in favor of that motion?
09:07:05 Any opposed?
09:07:06 All right.
09:07:07 Next up we have an item number 44 which is part of our
09:07:11 resolution.
09:07:14 City attorney Mr. Mueller is not available.
09:07:16 He's on vacation this week.
09:07:18 So since this information was important to this particular
09:07:21 item, the city attorney has asked that we move that to June
09:07:24 2nd also.
09:07:26 I have a motion from Mr. Cohen.
09:07:27 A second from Mrs. Capin.
09:07:29 All in favor of that motion?
09:07:31 Any opposed?
09:07:32 Thank you.
09:07:33 The last item to be moved is item number 70.
09:07:36 This is concerning noise ordinance and the city attorney
09:07:40 again is asking for this to be moved to June 21 -- 21.
09:07:50 >>THE CLERK: [Off microphone.]
09:07:58 >> We have a motion from Mr. Miranda.
09:07:59 A second from Mrs. Capin.
09:08:01 All in favor of that motion?
09:08:03 Any opposed?
09:08:03 Okay.
09:08:04 Terrific.
09:08:05 The next items are item number 58 and 71.
09:08:09 Those also have been just informational in nature that we
09:08:13 will take up as part of the rest of the agenda. If we could
09:08:16 have a motion to approve those other two items.
09:08:18 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: So moved.
09:08:20 >> Second.
09:08:21 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Motion by Mr. Miranda.
09:08:23 Second by Mrs. Capin.
09:08:24 All in favor?
09:08:26 Okay.
09:08:27 Thank you very much.
09:08:27 First up is our ceremonial activity.
09:08:29 Mr. Miranda, if you could take that, please.
09:09:08 Honorable members of Tampa City Council, it's my pleasure to
09:09:11 make a presentation to Tracie McFarland.
09:09:16 You are retiring after how many years?
09:09:18 >> 27ing.
09:09:19 You only look 26.
09:09:22 I must have done something wrong.
09:09:25 It's my pleasure to be here with you this morning on behalf
09:09:29 of all Tampa City Council, all the citizens of the City of
09:09:31 Tampa.
09:09:32 For 26 years of work, working with the public along with be
09:09:40 calm professionalism.
09:09:44 Do you want to be a council member?
09:09:46 It's an honor to be here.
09:09:47 What you have done is serve the public in a mannerism that a
09:09:50 lot of us do not.
09:09:53 You come level headed, you don't yell at nobody, and your
09:10:02 husband has the last words with you, those words are "yes,
09:10:05 ma'am."
09:10:06 And it's my pleasure, you love your family, and all the
09:10:13 council members that work with you here, and he would want
09:10:15 to thank you for working in the planning and development
09:10:17 department, and what you have done for 26 years as an
09:10:23 outstanding member of our city staff.
09:10:25 We are very appreciative.
09:10:26 Thank you very much.
09:10:27 Good luck to you and your whole family.
09:10:29 God bless each and every one of you.
09:10:31 [ Applause ]
09:10:32 >> Thank you.
09:10:46 Thank you, Charlie, for the kind words.
09:10:52 I thank my family for supporting me.
09:10:55 Thank you.
09:10:56 [ Applause ]
09:11:03 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Congratulations.
09:11:06 You know, when you retire they do pay you this last check
09:11:10 but this is not the only thing you get.
09:11:12 I want you to know that.
09:11:14 In addition you can tell by the compliments that have been
09:11:15 Mr. Miranda paid you, there's a reason why he keeps getting
09:11:19 reelected.
09:11:20 Thank you for being here.
09:11:21 Thank you for your service to the City of Tampa for all
09:11:23 those years.
09:11:24 Thank you.
09:11:25 Next up I am going to call up Mr. Reddick.
09:11:28 He is going to make a presentation to our water department
09:11:31 concerning water use.
09:11:32 Mr. President Reddick.
09:11:56 >>FRANK REDDICK: Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
09:11:58 It's my pleasure and honor to stand before you and present
09:12:01 this commendation as we celebrate water department water
09:12:08 reuse week.
09:12:09 Just briefly, Tampa City Council appreciates the efforts of
09:12:12 the City of Tampa water department in encouraging and
09:12:15 promoting water reuse and conservation.
09:12:17 The city has been using reclaimed water at the Howard Curren
09:12:23 wastewater treatment plant since 1979, and MacKay Bay energy
09:12:29 plant since 1995, and attached to Tampa International in
09:12:38 2009.
09:12:39 Today Tampa homeowners and industry reuse more than 6
09:12:43 million glance of safe and reclaimed water each day, for
09:12:47 conserving in Florida precious water and resources and is
09:12:52 key to the state's sustainable water future.
09:12:55 It is the Tampa City Council's pleasure to join the water
09:12:58 environmental association in water reuse Florida in
09:13:01 proclaiming the week to be water reuse week.
09:13:07 I would like to present this commendation to you, sir, on
09:13:10 behalf of Tampa City Council.
09:13:14 Thank you.
09:13:14 >> On behalf of Chuck Weber, director of the water
09:13:30 department, and I'm Brad Baird, public works administrator.
09:13:36 I'm honored to accept this award on their behalf.
09:13:40 Tampa's reuse storage started on July 2nd, 1979.
09:13:46 On that day we started up our advanced wastewater treatment
09:13:49 plant.
09:13:50 And four officials drank the water from that plant out of
09:13:56 champagne glasses.
09:13:57 And the public works administrator at the time, Dale, said
09:14:01 this water is good enough to drink.
09:14:03 This water is clean enough to drink.
09:14:09 In a few weeks you will have a proposal in front of you to
09:14:13 start a feasibility study called the Tampa augmentation
09:14:18 process, or TAP for short.
09:14:21 We are going to go down that road, and some day we will be
09:14:24 using that as a raw water source for drinking water.
09:14:28 Thank you very much.
09:14:31 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Mr. Miranda.
09:14:31 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
09:14:33 Mr. Baird, I am glad you remembered your name.
09:14:37 Number one.
09:14:38 Number two, thank you for being with us for a long time and
09:14:41 going back to 1979.
09:14:43 I didn't drink that water and that's why I lost my hair.
09:14:47 (Laughter)
09:14:47 In all seriousness, the only availability of drinking water
09:14:51 left is reuse water.
09:14:53 You can't do it any other way.
09:14:55 It's done in Israel, it's done in California, it's done in
09:14:59 lake Lanier, it's done in the river valley, it's done all
09:15:03 over the world.
09:15:04 And, however, I do have my doubts about TAP.
09:15:08 And you well No. I have expressed it to you.
09:15:11 I am a much more direct guy.
09:15:12 I don't like to go from first to third.
09:15:14 I like to steal home all at once.
09:15:17 And I appreciate what you and the mayor are doing.
09:15:19 And when you have projected population growth in the next 25
09:15:23 years of 425,000 people moving into Hillsborough County or
09:15:26 living in population expansion of Hillsborough County, and
09:15:30 only all going to need water.
09:15:33 Going to need a lot more in roads and other things.
09:15:36 But I want to thank you for being the person that you are.
09:15:39 I know we have differed many times and you never got mad at
09:15:42 me.
09:15:43 So that's the only thing I can say about you.
09:15:45 You are straight level, you think about doing the work, not
09:15:49 about personalities and I'm real proud to say that I am
09:15:51 standing part of this team in the city.
09:15:53 I appreciate everything you have done.
09:15:58 >>BRAD BAIRD: Thank you very much.
09:15:58 Thanks for all your hard work.
09:16:02 [ Applause ]
09:16:04 >>MIKE SUAREZ: We are onto item number 2.
09:16:12 Ms. Antoinette triplet, if you could come to the podium,
09:16:16 here to present some information concerning homelessness.
09:16:20 Ma'am.
09:16:20 >> Good morning.
09:16:50 I'm Antoinette Triplett, chief executive officer for the
09:16:55 Tampa Hillsborough homeless initiative.
09:16:57 I was asked to come today to present the results of the 2016
09:17:02 point in time count.
09:17:03 Every year, across the country, it's required to count the
09:17:08 number of people experiencing homelessness in their
09:17:10 communities.
09:17:11 Our count takes place the last week of February.
09:17:14 And as a result of the count I have for you a comparison of
09:17:19 2014, 2015 and 2016 numbers.
09:17:25 2015 and 2016, Hillsborough community experienced an overall
09:17:30 5.9% decrease in the number of people experiencing
09:17:35 homelessness.
09:17:42 We had a 42.7% decrease in the number of vets experiencing
09:17:47 homelessness.
09:17:48 Of those that are chronically homeless, homeless for a long
09:17:51 time, and have a disability, we had a decrease of 19.28%.
09:17:57 We also had a decrease in those unaccompanied youth that are
09:18:02 homeless.
09:18:03 And we also look at population of those experiencing
09:18:06 homelessness such as mental illness, substance abuse, aids,
09:18:11 and victims of domestic violence.
09:18:13 We did see an increase in those that are experiencing those
09:18:17 that are homeless and experiencing substance abuse and HIV
09:18:23 and aids.
09:18:24 You can see the increase on that.
09:18:26 That's it.
09:18:30 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: I'm so proud.
09:18:34 Thank you very much for your report and the comparisons and
09:18:36 the work that you have done.
09:18:37 However, I saw something on television, I believe it was, or
09:18:41 one of the media about another city in the State of Florida,
09:18:43 and I'll tell you who it is no second, that are shipping
09:18:46 some of the homeless people on a one-way ticket to Tampa.
09:18:50 Are you aware of that?
09:18:51 And is that a fact?
09:18:53 >>> Every community has experienced people moving from one
09:19:01 community to another regardless of writs located, in the
09:19:04 midwest, the north, south, east, west.
09:19:06 We do experience that.
09:19:09 People are being -- are coming to Tampa for resources.
09:19:16 And do I think that it is an indication of a strategic plan
09:19:21 on behalf of the other city?
09:19:22 I don't think so, but I'm not sure about that.
09:19:26 Miranda well, you answered the question without answering
09:19:28 the question.
09:19:29 You should be?
09:19:29 Politics.
09:19:35 I got the drift.
09:19:36 You don't want to start a battle.
09:19:38 >> It occurs but I don't think --
09:19:40 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: So to say, come here, I'm going to take
09:19:45 you out of Tampa.
09:19:46 >> I don't think so.
09:19:47 >>
09:19:48 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Anyone else that would like to make a comment
09:19:50 or question to Ms. Triplett? Thank you.
09:19:53 We appreciate it.
09:19:54 Thank you for all the hard work you are doing on behalf of
09:19:57 the homeless.
09:19:58 Before we go on to public comment, I would like to first
09:20:01 introduce a class that's here.
09:20:06 Miss Courtney Yakavali and Miss Jana Fazio are here with the
09:20:14 Montessori school of South Tampa. If I can have them stand
09:20:21 up in the audience.
09:20:23 [ Applause ]
09:20:27 I want to thank the teachers for bringing them here.
09:20:31 Thank you to the young people for being here and actually
09:20:34 not falling asleep while we were doing our deliberation.
09:20:37 We appreciate you being here and learning a little bit more
09:20:39 about City Council.
09:20:40 And Mrs. Rebecca Hempstead is the person that brought them
09:20:48 from the city.
09:20:49 I told them they are going to be on TV.
09:20:51 Everybody is waving.
09:20:52 I hope you see yourself on there.
09:20:55 Thank you for being here.
09:20:57 Next up is public comment.
09:20:58 The public comments are going to be taken based on what
09:21:00 items are on the agenda except for those that are put for
09:21:04 public hearing.
09:21:05 Those items that going to be settle for public hearing are
09:21:08 items 47 to 57.
09:21:10 So if you are going to speak on any other item on the agenda
09:21:13 besides those numbers, 47 through 57, please line up against
09:21:16 the wall here and come forward.
09:21:22 Sir.
09:21:22 >> My name is Adam Horton, Bayshore Boulevard, South Tampa.
09:21:29 I'm here on behalf of the Julian Lane park project.
09:21:35 I want to make some quick comments.
09:21:37 In addition to our role as the master developers of the
09:21:39 Heights Tampa project, we also own the Oakhurst apartment
09:21:46 complex which takes up all the publicly owned frontage of
09:21:49 Boulevard across from the school.
09:21:52 I'm familiar with the plans for the park project.
09:21:55 It looks like a very good project.
09:21:57 I can tell you that I have personally been able to visit two
09:22:00 of the master designers projects in the San Diego waterfront
09:22:05 in Denver, and that they were well executed by these
09:22:10 designs, inclusive, and certainly beneficial to the
09:22:13 neighborhoods where they were constructed.
09:22:16 So I won't be here.
09:22:19 Actually, I am off to the water treatment plant that you all
09:22:21 were talking about for public works at the Heights.
09:22:24 Bury want to come and say that I support that project.
09:22:31 Thank you.
09:22:31 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: Since you are here, and how is the Tampa
09:22:35 Heights project coming?
09:22:37 When are we going to see something happening there?
09:22:39 >> Very soon.
09:22:43 The infrastructure for the seawall.
09:22:45 We had a river board hearing yesterday which went well.
09:22:48 We gave a quick update to the West Tampa chamber yesterday.
09:22:53 And we anticipate having permits in there for the
09:22:57 infrastructure project in the next 30 to 45 days.
09:23:00 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: Thank you very much.
09:23:01 I appreciate it.
09:23:02 >> The city staff has been great.
09:23:03 All the departments have been really working with us.
09:23:08 50-acre remodeled project, it's difficult but we appreciate
09:23:15 everybody's cooperation.
09:23:16 >>YVONNE CAPIN: That's great to hear considering it's our
09:23:19 policy to keep them in line.
09:23:24 >>MIKE SUAREZ: You're next.
09:23:25 >> Laurence Sheppard, Straz Center for the performing center
09:23:30 and I live in Riverview, Florida.
09:23:32 I'm here today to speak to the Julian B. Lane project and I
09:23:40 have attended all the public meetings on it as well as some
09:23:44 direct meetings with select groups with the developer as
09:23:49 well as the city personnel that were involved in it.
09:23:52 And this plan looks like it has really done a great job in
09:23:56 assessing the needs of the area, and honoring the history of
09:24:01 the area.
09:24:01 It was a pleasure to sit through these hearings and these
09:24:04 meetings because it gave me an education, a Tampa history
09:24:09 lesson.
09:24:09 And I was pleased to learn about it.
09:24:12 I believe that the park plan allows for multiple interfaces.
09:24:17 You can have large gatherings.
09:24:18 But there's also places for small family celebrations, for
09:24:23 milestones, birthdays, family reunions that sort of thing.
09:24:27 Another component of the park that really appeals to me is
09:24:30 this is to my knowledge the only park that's designed to
09:24:32 intentionally interface with the water.
09:24:35 In other words, the water now, you can get in it.
09:24:41 You can move around in the.
09:24:42 You can access it in multiple ways.
09:24:45 And so I think it really does a fine job with that.
09:24:51 Not only is it a community asset just based on its own
09:24:55 merits, it's also a key component of the evolving changing
09:25:01 west side of the river which includes University of Tampa,
09:25:04 the new community center to the west, it includes the west
09:25:12 river neighborhood project that's evolving now, and without
09:25:16 this sort of play component of live, work, play, that area
09:25:21 could be a key component.
09:25:25 At the Straz Center we are in very active discussions about
09:25:29 education and programming, particularly with the evolving
09:25:33 west neighborhood plan, but west river neighborhood plan,
09:25:36 but also the parks as well.
09:25:40 Those what we do.
09:25:41 We just completed a master plan, and keep to that master
09:25:44 plan was gathering place.
09:25:46 Gathering place alongside the river.
09:25:48 I highly encourage you to support this project.
09:25:50 This actually is a game changer, making the Hillsborough
09:25:53 River the center of Tampa and not just the periphery.
09:25:57 Thank you.
09:25:58 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Thank you.
09:25:59 Next, please.
09:25:59 >> Good morning.
09:26:07 West Tampa.
09:26:07 I represent the West Tampa Chamber of Commerce.
09:26:10 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Your name, please?
09:26:11 >> dawn Hudson and I'm the president of the chamber.
09:26:14 And I'm accompanied today by many of my board members.
09:26:19 We indulge your support in the Julian B. Lane process.
09:26:24 Parks make life great.
09:26:25 This is the time for the west side of the river to enjoy
09:26:29 leisure.
09:26:31 We welcome your road construction, your dust, and your
09:26:36 workers into our neighborhood.
09:26:38 We know that this will spill over onto Main Street and our
09:26:42 west side riverfront and we encourage you to vote yes on
09:26:44 this project.
09:26:47 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Thank you.
09:26:47 >> Good morning, council.
09:26:52 Chairman Suarez.
09:26:55 As dawn has stated, I'm Bob Garcia with the West Tampa
09:26:59 Chamber of Commerce.
09:27:00 Thank you.
09:27:02 The last time we presented the long and the short, the tall
09:27:05 and the short, whatever it is, that we urge you to please
09:27:08 support the remaking of the redevelopment of the Julian B.
09:27:15 Lane park, as we have stated, with real estate, location,
09:27:20 location, location, are the three key words, and of course
09:27:24 writs located, it will give a tremendous view of the east
09:27:29 side of the river.
09:27:34 During the winter a lot of the college teams come as far as
09:27:41 rowing and that would be great.
09:27:42 Also, there will be development in that area.
09:27:46 You would have development as far as residential and
09:27:48 commercial.
09:27:50 And of course when that happens there, they will bring new
09:27:53 life and energy to the area.
09:27:56 In addition to that, if you look at the main, which is past
09:28:06 mayor Julian B. Lane, if you could look at the first letters
09:28:09 of Julian, J, it would stand for joy, what he would see in
09:28:15 this park development.
09:28:16 If you look at B, it's going to be a beautiful piece of art.
09:28:21 And if you look at the L, it would be something that he
09:28:23 would really love.
09:28:24 So with that, as you can see, lind me -- and I'm sure you
09:28:29 can see -- we have a great support in the West Tampa chamber
09:28:35 fully endorses it.
09:28:37 Thank you.
09:28:38 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Thanks very much.
09:28:39 Thank you all for attending.
09:28:40 It looks like you got most of West Tampa with you.
09:28:42 >> I'm the co-chair of the West Tampa.
09:28:56 Community development committee.
09:28:58 I think it's safe to say on behalf of the Chamber of
09:29:00 Commerce in regards to West Tampa that we are thrilled with
09:29:04 the attention and priority that this administration and this
09:29:07 council has placed on the reinvigoration of the
09:29:11 redevelopment of West Tampa.
09:29:13 It has been a very long time in coming.
09:29:15 But we think that this investment in this park is an
09:29:19 investment worthy of the future of West Tampa.
09:29:23 This is the most ethnically diverse, best strategically
09:29:27 located community in the region.
09:29:30 You all know West Tampa very, very well.
09:29:32 You go to the chamber meetings or any community meetings.
09:29:35 You have never seen this kind of diversity, mixed unit
09:29:39 people enjoy celebration of life and community.
09:29:43 This park is an investment, this park is an investment in
09:29:48 future and its past.
09:29:50 We encourage you all to support moving forward with this
09:29:52 project.
09:29:52 Thank you.
09:29:55 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Thank you.
09:29:55 >> Robert Morris.
09:29:58 I also support the project.
09:30:00 As now I am also with my theater, I think this is a great
09:30:06 addition as a resident and business owner.
09:30:08 I think it necessary and from what I understand, some of the
09:30:12 river might be going away and I think if this happens this
09:30:15 is the only access really to the water.
09:30:17 So I am hoping you approve this.
09:30:19 Thank you.
09:30:24 Miranda I just want to urge those of you who live in West
09:30:28 Tampa to stay there, and most of you who don't live in West
09:30:32 Tampa to move there since you like it so much. Come join
09:30:34 me.
09:30:39 Thank you very much.
09:30:48 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Next?
09:30:48 >> Michael Tomor, Executive Director of the Tampa Museum of
09:30:52 Art.
09:30:53 I want to encourage you all to consider the Julian B. Lane
09:30:57 project.
09:30:58 It's a remarkable plan.
09:31:01 The inclusion of major public art in this project is
09:31:04 critical to the quality of life that everybody can enjoy in
09:31:09 public park scenarios.
09:31:10 We recently closed a remarkable exhibition at our museum
09:31:14 that included public art work.
09:31:16 I can't tell you what it means for people to engage in art,
09:31:19 culture, play on their own terms, on their own time.
09:31:23 A park project like this is remarkable.
09:31:26 It will inform the gathering of people and throughout the
09:31:31 downtown and West Tampa region.
09:31:34 I can speak first hand experience at your tenacity and
09:31:38 encouragement of downtown development in the Curtis Hixon
09:31:41 park region has been remarkable for the quality of life
09:31:44 program and cultural institutions in the region.
09:31:47 I can't imagine one thing not happening as a result of the
09:31:53 Julian B. Lane project.
09:31:55 On a personal note, right before my interview for this
09:31:58 position over a year and a half ago, I read InVision Tampa,
09:32:03 and it was one of the main reasons why my consideration of
09:32:07 running a downtown museum was so strong.
09:32:09 Your administration has done nothing less than a miracle in
09:32:12 revitalization of the area.
09:32:14 Thank you.
09:32:15 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Thank you.
09:32:16 Next, please.
09:32:17 >> Good morning.
09:32:19 My name is Seth Pevnick. I'm the chief curator of Greek and
09:32:27 Roman art at the Tampa Museum of Art.
09:32:28 I'm also a member of the Public Art Committee of the City of
09:32:30 Tampa.
09:32:33 I have been aware of the Julian B. Lane project for some
09:32:36 time as do you and I would echo a lot of what Michael just
09:32:40 said about the importance of public art for our general
09:32:42 public.
09:32:44 I think as an employee of the Tampa Museum of Art for more
09:32:48 than six years now, I think, I have really seen the
09:32:52 revitalization of downtown.
09:32:55 And I think we feel that we are at the center of downtown,
09:32:58 and on the west side of the Hillsborough River would really
09:33:02 do more for the revitalization of the city.
09:33:05 And again I encourage you to support this project.
09:33:07 Thank you.
09:33:11 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Thank you.
09:33:11 Next, please.
09:33:12 >> I'm David Sherr, chair of the JPC which is right in the
09:33:20 heart of West Tampa.
09:33:21 I also am chair of the planning committee of the Straz,
09:33:27 which Laurence spoke about earlier.
09:33:29 And we are not separate districts in Tampa.
09:33:33 We are all one.
09:33:34 This is just going to make, first of all, I would say I am
09:33:38 in support of the project Julian B. Lane park.
09:33:44 Great parks create great communities.
09:33:47 Great example is Bryan park in New York.
09:33:50 That was a drug infested park where people could find
09:33:55 syringes on every corner.
09:33:56 Today if you go there, it is a thriving park with people,
09:34:04 and that's going to happen here.
09:34:06 The park connects the City of Tampa and West Tampa and
09:34:12 creates the continuum of places that people can recreate and
09:34:19 play and work.
09:34:20 I fully support the project.
09:34:24 >> Jack Ross, North Howard Boulevard, JTC federation.
09:34:32 I encourage your support of this wonderful project,
09:34:35 redeveloping that community.
09:34:39 Another piece of the InVision, Tampa plan, how exciting the
09:34:43 to be in Tampa.
09:34:44 The excitement that it is all generating.
09:34:49 It's a no-brainer.
09:34:51 And the federation supports the project and hope you do,
09:34:56 too.
09:34:57 Thank you.
09:34:58 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Thank you.
09:34:58 Next, please.
09:34:59 >> Vincent Palori, 234 East Davis Boulevard, Tampa.
09:35:08 I'm speaking on behalf of the project.
09:35:10 It's a lot of money.
09:35:11 We all know it's a lot of money.
09:35:13 But it's so needed.
09:35:17 This is the heart of our community, not just West Tampa, but
09:35:20 our entire community.
09:35:24 And I feel it's absolutely vital that we support this, and
09:35:32 that it happens, and that we keep Tampa growing.
09:35:37 Thanks.
09:35:37 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Thank you, sir.
09:35:38 >> Richard Gonzmart, resident of Wellswood.
09:35:42 First I want to commend you and thank you.
09:35:45 I'm grateful for your vision and belief that what we did,
09:35:48 Tampa Heights, the Water Works, it's been a huge success.
09:35:52 Encouraging development, and that little restaurant that
09:35:56 nobody wanted to believe in, there's more sales in food and
09:36:00 beverage in the City of Tampa single largest asset, the
09:36:03 Tampa convention center.
09:36:06 That's what kind of impact it's had. We employ more people,
09:36:09 giving people hope.
09:36:13 It's forced me, made me make a difference.
09:36:16 Where my mother was born, where I was born, where my
09:36:19 parents, my grandparents lived, we purchased a 30,000 square
09:36:22 foot facility to help at-risk high school students learn a
09:36:32 trade, discipline.
09:36:33 It's making a difference.
09:36:35 But now it's time to realize where my great grandfather
09:36:38 Francisco Martinez, and the young children, West Tampa,
09:36:43 where my father was born and lived on green street, very
09:36:46 close by, been waiting for this day.
09:36:52 I'm willing to make a commitment like I did at the
09:36:55 Waterworks Park, to give people that opportunity, that
09:37:02 pride, opportunity for youth, remembering who made that area
09:37:07 West Tampa proud.
09:37:08 I have a plan in place.
09:37:10 We just need your support.
09:37:13 I'm excited beyond excitement.
09:37:15 I hope that you will really give serious consideration to
09:37:19 funding this plan that will change Tampa as we know it.
09:37:21 The great City of Tampa will be the greatest city in the
09:37:24 south if not the United States with your leadership.
09:37:27 God bless you.
09:37:28 Thank you.
09:37:29 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Thank you, sir.
09:37:30 Next, please.
09:37:31 >> Benjamin Buckley, 902 north Rome.
09:37:37 I ask that you reconsider and not vote on this today, or
09:37:40 will vote against the park.
09:37:43 And I am on the CRA.
09:37:45 I'm also a board member of the North Hyde Park Civic
09:37:48 Association.
09:37:49 And it's not because the park is a bad idea.
09:37:53 We love the idea.
09:37:54 We love the plan.
09:37:55 As a matter of fact, I attended so many meetings, probably
09:37:58 more than a lot of people, the charettes about the park, and
09:38:06 what we noticed on the budget there's a $711,000 part of the
09:38:10 budget and it came right out of North Hyde Park, our
09:38:13 neighborhood.
09:38:14 And what this is money that was allocated for green space.
09:38:19 And I want to just briefly go over how this process
09:38:23 happened.
09:38:23 We had a lot of development along north Rome Avenue and
09:38:28 other spots in our neighborhood.
09:38:30 And part of their requirement, the city requires green space
09:38:35 for every project.
09:38:36 However, under the planning process there's a method that
09:38:41 these developers can use to not do the green space, and
09:38:46 increase their density.
09:38:47 Then they pay into an in lieu of fund where there's money,
09:38:52 and then used later to create green space.
09:38:55 And green space is very important because it leads to a
09:38:59 healthy environment.
09:39:00 And so there's this $711,000 that was allocated for our
09:39:06 neighborhood, and all of our North Hyde Park Civic
09:39:10 Associations, we are opposed to this money being used over
09:39:17 at the Julian B. Lane park.
09:39:19 Although we love the park and this is a great thing that we
09:39:22 are going to do this.
09:39:23 But we need to keep that money over in the neighborhood that
09:39:27 has been neglected and needs green space right in North Hyde
09:39:33 Park.
09:39:35 We are asking you to either go back and remove that money,
09:39:37 not vote on it today, or something.
09:39:40 I don't know what you can do at this point.
09:39:42 But we are asking that the money stay, the $711,000 stay in
09:39:47 North Hyde Park.
09:39:48 So we are against it for that one reason only.
09:39:52 Thank you.
09:39:54 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Thank you.
09:39:54 Ma'am?
09:39:55 >> Good morning.
09:39:57 I'm Brenda Lindsay, the current president of the North Hyde
09:40:01 Park Civic Association, a temporary position.
09:40:04 We are reorganizing.
09:40:07 Brenda Lindsay.
09:40:10 We are not opposed at all to this project.
09:40:13 We think it's going to be a beautiful place.
09:40:15 But the money that was designated for our neighborhood I
09:40:20 feel should stay in our neighborhood.
09:40:22 Give us a chance to develop a plan to use that money in our
09:40:25 neighborhood.
09:40:26 So we are just asking you to put a hold on that money for
09:40:32 the park area until we can come up with a plan to service
09:40:36 the people in north Hyde Park.
09:40:40 Thank you.
09:40:43 >>YVONNE CAPIN: I just want do it say hello to Brenda
09:40:46 Lindsay.
09:40:47 She and I were homies from 7th grade through high
09:40:51 school.
09:40:54 >>MIKE SUAREZ: We may want to ask some questions of you
09:40:56 after the meeting.
09:40:57 (Laughter).
09:40:58 >> I'm Christine Burdick, 721 south fielding Avenue, and
09:41:04 with the downtown partnership.
09:41:05 And I appreciate your considering this issue.
09:41:08 I am not going to speak long because folks far more eloquent
09:41:15 than I have spoken before me.
09:41:16 And I want to say we ask your consideration of this park,
09:41:21 because your leadership has helped build a beautiful legacy
09:41:25 of downtown green spaces.
09:41:28 And it's not just about downtown.
09:41:30 It's all about the neighborhoods surrounding.
09:41:32 The Perry Harvey park and the waterway park are all
09:41:39 opportunities for downtown but are really spreading the
09:41:41 goodness and the opportunities for all the people all over
09:41:45 Tampa to come downtown.
09:41:46 And have also the parks to our north and to our east.
09:41:51 And we are just winding down from a very successful festival
09:41:57 season.
09:41:58 It's been very important to have green spaces and play areas
09:42:02 for all the citizens of Tampa, and clearly people even from
09:42:06 beyond Tampa to come and enjoy our park.
09:42:09 It's an investment in the future.
09:42:10 It's further enhancement for the InVision plan.
09:42:14 And I think it's very important legacy.
09:42:18 And so we hope our leadership hopes that we can count on
09:42:22 your support for this.
09:42:24 And we will help build and grow all the parks in downtown.
09:42:27 Thank you.
09:42:29 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Thank you.
09:42:30 Next, please.
09:42:30 >> Ron Weaver, 401 East Jackson Street.
09:42:34 I hope in ten years The Discovery Channel has the best ten
09:42:37 parks in America and this park will with the love of Julian
09:42:45 B. Lane, will be different from the legacy we have in south
09:42:49 downtown.
09:42:49 And the park was decommissioned, Fort Brooke, and there were
09:42:54 17 squatters on it and came this close to being a large park
09:42:58 where the convention center, except for 17 squatters.
09:43:02 They didn't know what to do with the 17 squatters and did
09:43:05 not create that signature park that we have an opportunity
09:43:07 today that T create that in ten years with The Discovery
09:43:10 Channel the best ten parks in America this park has every
09:43:13 reason with all the energy and the vitality that we can make
09:43:17 to be that park.
09:43:18 I don't know where you grew up and what you new to be the
09:43:21 place in your community where you could synergize with
09:43:24 children, with seniors, with activities, and we can do it
09:43:28 with our precious water.
09:43:29 I know somebody mentioned something about the architecture,
09:43:33 about 15,000 years Indian mounds have been the archaeology
09:43:39 of this great community.
09:43:39 This is going to capture everything we were, going to
09:43:42 capture everything we need to be and it's going to do it
09:43:44 together and it's going to did not a signature style that
09:43:47 when they talk about the great parks of America, based on
09:43:50 the way this community believes what it's about to do, I
09:43:54 believe this could easily be one of those great signatures
09:43:57 and legacies of the world that we appreciate our people, we
09:44:01 appreciate the recreation, we appreciate their assembly, and
09:44:04 we appreciate their spirit, and it can be done together in
09:44:07 this kind of a signature, and this effort that you have
09:44:09 before you to make this where we all look back and say this
09:44:13 is where we had our finest hour, as we did in 1971 with the
09:44:17 world's greatest airport.
09:44:18 We will again with the world's greatest park.
09:44:21 Thank you for the opportunity.
09:44:21 We hope that you will take advantage of it.
09:44:24 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Thank you.
09:44:25 Next, sir.
09:44:25 >> I'm Ed Tillou, Sulphur Springs.
09:44:34 I came with a bunch of things to try to wrap up what I have
09:44:36 been talking about, but this seems to have come up now about
09:44:39 these parks on the river.
09:44:41 Okay, there seems to be a murking of things here.
09:44:44 There are two parks involved, and one is a right bank park,
09:44:48 and that gets murked up by West Tampa.
09:44:54 I see West Tampa as actually Howard, North Howard.
09:44:59 But be that as it may, there's one on the left bank that
09:45:04 portion of the Riverwalk is missing, and then finance we
09:45:07 carry the Riverwalk all the way up to this Tampa Heights
09:45:13 development with the Columbia restaurant and things like
09:45:15 that.
09:45:18 Well, it has a different name.
09:45:19 But, in any case, the problem with a lot of these things, I
09:45:24 think they are good ideas, but the problem is they are
09:45:27 overbuilt.
09:45:28 There's too much there.
09:45:29 Like I looked at a picture in the paper in PBT between the
09:45:34 Straz Center, and there was a before and after.
09:45:37 And it was like one of these classic things where the before
09:45:40 was better than the after.
09:45:42 So the thing that needs to be done is a lot of this needs
09:45:49 scaling down.
09:45:50 On the right bank park they want to put a rowing center.
09:45:53 That's a little on the dangerous side.
09:45:56 There is a rowing center, the University of Tampa.
09:46:00 They used to make that available to the public.
09:46:04 Collins was on his way there, 5 a.m., when he was run down.
09:46:11 On his bicycle.
09:46:12 But the thing is that there is something like that.
09:46:15 And to put it in a neighborhood where most of the kids can't
09:46:18 swim, you know, you are getting the cart before the horse.
09:46:22 In Baltimore, there's one of those centers, but I brought to
09:46:27 their attention that they should have as a prerequisite for
09:46:31 the use of these rowing shows and things like that, that the
09:46:34 people can swim, because things go wrong.
09:46:37 Okay, I had spoken before about bad food choices in a lot of
09:46:44 food things, and I really didn't come to a stopping point.
09:46:47 Well, anyway, this is available about cheese.
09:46:50 I have spoken.
09:46:50 I said cheese has an awful lot of saturated fats.
09:46:55 But I wondered where this was coming from and the 26th
09:47:06 largest producer of meat in the country, it's almost all
09:47:09 pork, and you will notice this name here.
09:47:11 So they were probably looking for some nitwit that doesn't
09:47:14 really infect Spinks things and they came up with BARABAS.
09:47:23 So that's a problem.
09:47:24 But there are good substitutes for pork.
09:47:26 They can do amazing things with chicken and turkey.
09:47:29 That's that.
09:47:31 Oh, by the way,.
09:47:33 (Bell sounds)
09:47:34 They are making it out of cream now.
09:47:36 And it's delicious.
09:47:38 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Thank you, Mr. Tillou.
09:47:40 >> 44% of your day's saturated fat.
09:47:45 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Next, please.
09:47:52 >> Good morning.
09:47:53 My name is Marlon Anderson, the president of Sunset Park
09:47:56 area homeowners association.
09:47:58 I'm here to talk about agenda item number 74, which is the
09:48:01 revised stormwater capital improvement plan.
09:48:05 Our association recently took a vote on this, and we voted
09:48:09 to support this plan as long as a medium size house is taxed
09:48:14 no more than 100 per year.
09:48:16 We are willing toe pay that tax.
09:48:18 When I look at Tampa, I grew up in the Tampa Bay area.
09:48:22 It spent most of my life in Tampa.
09:48:24 Tampa has grown and it's going to continue to grow.
09:48:27 Smaller houses are getting torn down and replaced by larger
09:48:31 houses, which I'm sure you have seen all over the city.
09:48:35 I'm under no illusions that we are going to be fixing all of
09:48:38 the stormwater problems.
09:48:40 We know that if there's going to be a major storm, it's
09:48:42 going to flood and there's nothing we can do about that.
09:48:45 But I like to tell this one story.
09:48:48 I was over at the Chick Fil-A on North Dale Mabry with my
09:48:52 daughter, and we were having dinner, and while we were
09:48:57 there, we had a rainstorm, and it rained for about 20
09:49:00 minutes.
09:49:00 Okay, so I get in my car, start to drive home.
09:49:03 I nearly got flooded.
09:49:06 And this should not happen.
09:49:07 This is inaccessible.
09:49:09 That water should drain under those circumstances, and it's
09:49:13 not.
09:49:14 And we need to do something about that.
09:49:16 So I have the utmost confidence in the city administration
09:49:21 to administer a revised stormwater capital improvement plan
09:49:26 and improve the flooding situation throughout the city.
09:49:30 There's going to be a presentation today.
09:49:32 I ask you to listen to what they have to say, and that you
09:49:35 support a revised stormwater capital improvement plan.
09:49:40 Thank you very much.
09:49:41 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Thank you.
09:49:41 Before we go on to the next person, is there anyone -- we
09:49:45 have some folks lined up here -- is there anyone that's able
09:49:48 to stand and line up that wants to talk about any issues
09:49:52 besides items 47 through 57, if you could please stand and
09:49:55 line up for that so we can figure out what our next number
09:49:59 of folks we are going to have and the time frame.
09:50:02 Is there anyone else?
09:50:04 If you are going to talk individually, if you are just there
09:50:07 to stand up supporting someone, that's fine, too.
09:50:10 Okay, if we could have you all line up if you are able to
09:50:13 stand.
09:50:13 If you are not, we understand.
09:50:16 Council, I am going to need some additional time for our
09:50:19 public comment.
09:50:20 Looks like another at least 15 to 25 minutes.
09:50:23 >>HARRY COHEN: So moved.
09:50:26 25 minutes.
09:50:27 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Second from Mrs. Capin.
09:50:29 All in favor of that motion?
09:50:31 Thank you.
09:50:31 I apologize.
09:50:32 Go ahead, sir.
09:50:33 >> Does that mean I get 25 minutes? (Laughter).
09:50:37 >>MIKE SUAREZ: No, sir.
09:50:37 You are going to deal with all the folks in line then if I
09:50:41 gave you 25.
09:50:42 >> Thank you very much.
09:50:43 My name is James ransom, the president of the Saturday
09:50:48 morning breakfast group and board member and chairman of the
09:50:50 economic development committee for the Tampa organization of
09:50:52 black affairs.
09:50:54 I came to talk about the good faith language that's going to
09:50:58 be coming up in one of your workshops and maybe discussed
09:51:01 today in a staff report.
09:51:02 Butt I want to say about the parks, remember where it is.
09:51:06 It is in West Tampa.
09:51:08 West Tampa is on North Boulevard where my grandfather had an
09:51:12 insurance company, founded in 1922.
09:51:18 West Tampa is where Chester White had a gas station on North
09:51:22 Boulevard with EDU is currently standing.
09:51:28 West Tampa is where African-American people resided
09:51:31 alongside of Hispanic people as well as non-hispanic people.
09:51:37 Please remember in everything you do, all the decisions you
09:51:40 make, should reflect diversity, equity, fairness and
09:51:47 economic inclusion of African-Americans among others,
09:51:50 because that's what TOBA does and that's what the Saturday
09:51:53 morning breakfast does.
09:51:54 He would don't exclude any other group.
09:51:56 We want to make sure we are included.
09:51:59 I passed to the clerk information about Greenville South
09:52:02 Carolina Chamber of Commerce.
09:52:02 Please look at that website and see what they are doing.
09:52:05 It's pretty phenomenal.
09:52:06 But the good faith language I want to talk about today, I
09:52:09 can illustrate it this way.
09:52:12 There's the City of Tampa has about an $800 million budget,
09:52:16 spends about $800 million a year, and in a four-year term of
09:52:19 a City Council member or mayor you will spend 1.6 million
09:52:23 out the door, 10% of that on African-Americans, 10% of that,
09:52:32 1.6 million, maybe somewhere between 106,000.
09:52:36 So 1.6 million may be spent that way.
09:52:39 But please understand the language gives a loophole for
09:52:41 people to get around the idea of people actually spending
09:52:44 money, for people who have do business with the City of
09:52:47 Tampa, some of whom happen to be African-Americans, who pay
09:52:50 taxes and vote.
09:52:51 And contribute to the city's funding to be spend this money.
09:52:54 So please be considered of maybe we should have policies or
09:52:58 procedures as you enact ordinances that support equity and
09:53:02 fairness and economic inclusion of African-Americans among
09:53:05 others.
09:53:06 And so we ask you to actually look at changing the policy
09:53:09 that would affect the mayor's administration and what they
09:53:14 do with this money that you have to approve for them to
09:53:17 spend.
09:53:18 We look forward to engaging you in our Saturday morning
09:53:21 breakfast meeting, with these documents that I am talking
09:53:25 about, and I appreciate the time that you gave me this
09:53:27 morning.
09:53:28 Any questions?
09:53:29 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Thank you, sir.
09:53:32 Your 25 minutes are up.
09:53:34 (Laughter)
09:53:35 Next, please.
09:53:35 >> Kimberly overman and I have too many hats on to describe
09:53:54 which one I have on at the moment.
09:53:55 I'm here actually speaking on item 47, 49, 58, 59, 60 and
09:54:01 67.
09:54:07 >>MIKE SUAREZ: [Off microphone.]
09:54:09 47 through 57 are for public hearing only.
09:54:12 And those will be brought up at that time.
09:54:15 If you are talking about any other items, you may.
09:54:17 >> 58, 59, 60, 67.
09:54:21 Okay.
09:54:22 Then I will go on those others and wait till later.
09:54:24 In the handouts that I have provided you is the
09:54:27 recommendation from 2011 to 2016 budget, recommendations
09:54:33 from the citizens advisory council, that you have appointed
09:54:38 the citizens to review the budget and help make
09:54:41 recommendations to manage the financial affairs of the city.
09:54:44 While we have we have absolute support and endorsement of
09:54:49 the Julian B. Lane project, and yes, we would love to see
09:54:54 development.
09:54:54 It seems like a marvelous project.
09:54:57 The actual Finance Committee actually last year suggested
09:54:59 that the BP settlement money be utilized for infrastructure.
09:55:03 I guess the park would be considered infrastructure to some
09:55:08 degree but my biggest concern is funding it with the BP
09:55:11 money versus finding other resources or enhance the grant
09:55:15 applications in public-private partnership in order to
09:55:18 facilitate the development of Julian B. Lane.
09:55:21 I think it's important to recognize we have other economic
09:55:23 factors in our community that are very important to the
09:55:27 Tampa Bay region.
09:55:28 For example, MacDill Air Force Base generates
09:55:31 approximately 13.1 billion dollars in our community in terms
09:55:38 of the people who live there and work there and noticed to
09:55:41 get there.
09:55:43 When they are unable to get to the Air Force Base because we
09:55:45 have been unable to address the challenges we have with our
09:55:52 stormwater and being able to provide protection for the
09:55:54 residents as well as the employees' time to get to their
09:55:58 jobs.
09:55:59 We find that there needs to be some prioritization in making
09:56:02 sure that our finances are sound, and we are using those
09:56:06 resources in the best way.
09:56:08 And suggest that it is a bad idea, in no way do I suggest,
09:56:16 because it's a marvelous economic engine but we have things
09:56:20 we want to preserve and protect the natural resources in our
09:56:24 city.
09:56:25 I do have other items on the agenda but I would please ask
09:56:31 you for the advisory council as well as the articles I
09:56:36 submitted for your review.
09:56:38 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Thank you.
09:56:39 >>YVONNE CAPIN: When you mentioned the stormwater, please be
09:56:43 advised that what's coming to us today is the methodology of
09:56:49 applying for the credit.
09:56:55 It is not a revised stormwater plan.
09:56:58 >> I'm not speaking to the stormwater, I was speaking total
09:57:02 $35 million or the money for the Julian B. Lane that's
09:57:07 coming out of the BP settlement funds.
09:57:11 >>YVONNE CAPIN: You and everybody else mentioned the
09:57:12 stormwater.
09:57:13 It is not at revised plan.
09:57:14 >> Thank you for your comment.
09:57:16 I appreciate it.
09:57:18 >>YVONNE CAPIN: Thank you.
09:57:19 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Next, please.
09:57:19 >> Mike Peterson, government affairs council for the greater
09:57:27 Tampa association of realtors.
09:57:29 Picking up a little bit on the prior speakers, as you may
09:57:31 have noticed, our president actually served on your budget
09:57:35 committee as well, and that's why when we spoke out with
09:57:38 some concerns over the stormwater improvement program this
09:57:42 past year, we had mentioned that we would have preferred,
09:57:46 and we saw money like the BP money, going to the stormwater
09:57:50 issue, at least to help reduce the pain that was being
09:57:54 suggested as a stormwater improvement fee.
09:57:57 No one is against the Julian B. Lane park.
09:58:00 And I understand the desire for legacy projects.
09:58:03 The problem is moneys aren't always mutually exclusive in
09:58:08 your budget.
09:58:09 And you also have a legacy of flooding.
09:58:13 So I just warn you, what are the priorities here?
09:58:19 And if in fact we decide all the BP money is desirable for
09:58:23 this park, we are going to be a little bit concerned about
09:58:26 how you decide to raise additional funds for the stormwater
09:58:30 improvement program and F that appears abusive to us.
09:58:37 I don't know what's coming later on the agenda to what we
09:58:40 are actually going to hear. I was under the impression we
09:58:42 might hear a revised program so I can't speak to that.
09:58:46 But when we see these as swab -- I know that makes that a
09:58:50 tough decision for you and I can respect whichever way you
09:58:52 go, just recognize that we are not against the park but we
09:58:57 are a little concerned about how the BP money may get thrown
09:59:01 in one big lump for one project.
09:59:04 Thank you.
09:59:06 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Mr. Reddick.
09:59:07 >>FRANK REDDICK: Let me just make this brief comment.
09:59:10 And I understand the passion of these people that are
09:59:12 speaking about the BP money, but let me just say this.
09:59:18 When we are talking about legacy, we have a legacy of
09:59:23 neglecting West Tampa of over 20-some years.
09:59:29 That park was neglected for over 20-something years.
09:59:33 So when you talk about legacy, let's talk about the legacy
09:59:37 of neglect that we have gotten in West Tampa.
09:59:41 I just want to say that.
09:59:42 And when we get to discuss this, I am going to say a little
09:59:45 more about neglect in West Tampa.
09:59:48 So I just want to put that.
09:59:50 I have been sitting here patiently listening to everybody
09:59:53 who are downgrading and tying in two issues.
09:59:58 But when you get a history of neglect in West Tampa, you
10:00:05 understand people who live in West Tampa why this is
10:00:09 important.
10:00:09 Thank you.
10:00:10 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Thank you, Mr. Reddick.
10:00:11 Next, please.
10:00:11 >> My name is Kelly FATIMI, a property owner in West Tampa,
10:00:19 in North Hyde Park.
10:00:21 I agree with Mr. Reddick, I do not want them to neglect West
10:00:26 Tampa any longer.
10:00:27 We are all for the park.
10:00:28 The park that today, we just formed an association, we have
10:00:37 interim officers that were just put in place, North Hyde
10:00:42 Park Civic Association and that's how I learned about what
10:00:47 was happening today.
10:00:47 And it is my understanding that there is $711,000 that is
10:00:54 allocated toward West Tampa neighborhood that is going to be
10:01:02 allocated to the Julian B. Lane park.
10:01:05 I just feel -- I am just asking if we could please table
10:01:09 this to give us a chance to come up and see what we could do
10:01:12 with the money that's supposed to be for the West Tampa
10:01:15 neighborhood.
10:01:17 Thank you.
10:01:18 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Thank you.
10:01:19 Next, please.
10:01:19 >> Jerome Bryan, Tampa Housing Authority, along and we are
10:01:30 here to support the redevelopment of Julian Lane park.
10:01:34 First of all it's the right thing to do.
10:01:36 I think the second thing more importantly that most of you
10:01:39 know are going after another choice neighborhood application
10:01:43 and this is a way to leverage not only that grant but do
10:01:45 what we need to do in that community.
10:01:48 The competitive process regarding the neighborhood is
10:01:52 tremendous, only about $125, maybe $130 million available,
10:01:56 and it's probably going to be 100 applications.
10:01:59 The more beverage we have the better we are in securing
10:02:02 those dollars for the project.
10:02:04 I think it's so important that we do it not only for that
10:02:08 but for the neighborhood over there.
10:02:09 That park has been neglected for a long time, and it's a
10:02:11 tremendous park, it's a good neighborhood, and I think that
10:02:14 whatever we do, whether we get our grant or not, I think
10:02:17 it's just important that we do that.
10:02:20 The people in that community deserve that park and deserve
10:02:22 the renovations.
10:02:24 If you look at that park and think about the history of that
10:02:26 park and what needs to happen, what hasn't happened over the
10:02:29 years, it leads one to believe that there has been some
10:02:32 neglect.
10:02:33 However, with partnership with the city and others in the
10:02:37 community we made a decision that for our project to be
10:02:39 successful that park nodes to be redeveloped.
10:02:41 I just want to share that with you.
10:02:43 >> David Gallon, Council President for North Boulevard
10:02:43 Homes, and I'm here with my other councilmen as well.
10:02:54 Good morning, council members.
10:02:55 We are definitely in support of Julian B. Lane park.
10:03:01 We are residents that recently relocated from West Tampa and
10:03:05 we would love to come back to West Tampa with a renewed
10:03:10 Julian B. Lane park.
10:03:12 We would love to have that space redeveloped, and definitely
10:03:17 see some things going there for our youth, and also children
10:03:22 as well, and I would love to have a place for my children to
10:03:25 come to that park, and definitely celebrate that area as
10:03:29 well.
10:03:30 I remember as a young boy going to that park, and we use we
10:03:38 would do car shows, used to have barbecues, it was a family
10:03:42 event, you know what I'm saying, and that's what I want to
10:03:45 come back with a renewed Julian B. Lane park.
10:03:49 So I thank you for considering the opportunity to revise the
10:03:51 park.
10:03:53 Thank you.
10:03:54 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Thank you, sir.
10:03:59 Anyone else like to speak?
10:04:06 Give us your name, please.
10:04:07 >> I am also one of the resident council members, and a
10:04:13 recently relocated resident from the North Boulevard homes.
10:04:19 My goal is to turn around and come right back when the
10:04:25 project is redeveloped. And I really would like to have
10:04:28 your support in the development.
10:04:33 I would love -- I have three children.
10:04:39 I have three children of my own.
10:04:41 And I have grandchildren on the way.
10:04:42 And I would love that when I return back that we have a
10:04:45 place that we can go and it's safe, and my children can
10:04:49 play, where it's safe, where some of the other residents
10:04:55 that came before, some of our seniors, now they are not able
10:04:58 to go, but where our seniors can come, where those of our
10:05:04 age can participate and enjoy the park.
10:05:06 So I would love your support on this.
10:05:09 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Thank you.
10:05:09 >> Leroy Moore, Tampa Housing Authority.
10:05:15 Just to echo many comments that you have heard earlier
10:05:17 today, the park in creating great communities, that's what
10:05:24 we are trying to do in the immediate adjacent to the area we
10:05:27 are calling west river. This park is a major leverage to
10:05:30 allow us to do what we need to do to reposition 150 acres
10:05:34 that has actually been off the tax rolls for 70-plus years
10:05:38 now and the vast majority of that period, this
10:05:40 redevelopment, that creates a renewing, a regenerating of
10:05:46 future revenue back to the city that never existed before.
10:05:49 And I heard so many comments today about use of BP oil spill
10:05:55 proceeds to finance the park.
10:05:57 There's no better use for those proceeds.
10:06:00 Having us -- the economy of Florida in such a way, investing
10:06:06 those funds now wisely in projects that would actually spin
10:06:10 off and continue to give you sustaining economic development
10:06:15 potential in this community, there's no better way to use
10:06:21 those fund.
10:06:21 Thank you.
10:06:23 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Thank you, sir.
10:06:24 Next up, sir.
10:06:44 By name is KC Bowick, and I'm the president of the Tampa Bay
10:06:49 Black Chamber of Commerce, and I'm here for two reasons
10:06:52 today.
10:06:53 One is to ask you to go forward with the Julian B. Lane
10:07:02 park, because it is very much needed, because I am a retired
10:07:09 professional basketball player.
10:07:11 And I used to do a lot of playing at that park when it was
10:07:15 there.
10:07:16 And I have some good times in that park.
10:07:19 And I think that it should be revised where I can get off of
10:07:25 this cane and get back out there again and put some in the
10:07:29 hoops and stuff.
10:07:30 And the other thing is that the chamber is going to be
10:07:37 watching the funds that are being allocated to different
10:07:41 areas, they will be watching the funds that's going to be
10:07:45 allocated to any individuals and things, to make sure that
10:07:49 the black and African-American and minority-owned businesses
10:07:55 here in Tampa will be supported with that money, and if not,
10:08:02 then you will see the chamber back here again to give you
10:08:06 another lashing about what should be done about these
10:08:12 businesses and contracts and things that are going through
10:08:16 Hillsborough County and the City of Tampa.
10:08:18 And again, make Julian B. Lane a park that we can be proud
10:08:24 of, and that we can boast on when we go out of town and
10:08:29 things for people.
10:08:32 Thank you very much.
10:08:33 And remember, learning from the past to create the future.
10:08:39 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Thank you.
10:08:40 Next, please.
10:08:40 >> Derek Chamblee, Google D-E-R-E-K-C-H-A-M-B-L-E-E.
10:09:02 St. Paul.
10:09:04 Google C-Y-B-I-T-E-O.
10:09:11 Google citizen alert, state of emergency.
10:09:16 I'm here again to give you an update on the -- in the event
10:09:24 an emergency evacuation is called.
10:09:30 The coming of a major hurricane out of the Gulf of Mexico.
10:09:34 I had a meeting with a meteorologist from Bay News 9 that
10:09:41 was at an emergency show at TECO in the last several days,
10:09:45 and I asked if they get some sort of idea from the
10:09:52 meteorologists how they can give us a warning more than 36
10:09:56 to 48 hours before the headwinds reach the Tampa Bay region.
10:10:00 And I said to you before that when the headwinds reach 50
10:10:06 Myles miles an hour the first bridge that will be shut down
10:10:08 is the sunshine Skyway Bridge and then the Courtney
10:10:12 Campbell, Gandy, and Howard Frankland leaving precious
10:10:16 escape routes from Pinellas County, sacrificing Pinellas
10:10:20 County.
10:10:20 I have been over thereby, and I have issued a warning.
10:10:25 You can access my instructional video on the hurricane
10:10:29 evacuation plans, which are no plan at all, issued by the
10:10:34 Pinellas County commissioners and the Hillsborough County
10:10:36 commissioners.
10:10:37 We are going to need the cooperation of every single county,
10:10:42 Pasco, Hernando, Manatee, Sarasota, Polk County, Orange
10:10:46 County, every county all the way to Georgia for this type of
10:10:51 movement of perhaps a million vehicles on an infrastructure
10:10:57 and interstate that cannot support the population explosion
10:11:00 in the peninsula of Florida. There's precious little
10:11:05 escape.
10:11:06 I gave the meteorologist from Bay News 9 an approximate
10:11:10 location in the western Caribbean to look for the formation
10:11:13 of a depression.
10:11:15 82º longitude, 12 degrees latitude, somewhere around the
10:11:21 10th of September, and historically, a depression that
10:11:24 forms will meander along the Central American coast,
10:11:28 Nicaragua, over the Yucatan Peninsula, and emerging to
10:11:33 perhaps a category 5 in the Gulf of Mexico, and all of them
10:11:36 at that time occur wickedly for the west coast of Florida.
10:11:41 It's going to be a Domino effect with the vehicles on the
10:11:43 road.
10:11:44 We need more time, more warning, that would give
10:11:46 approximately ten days to begin a proper evacuation.
10:11:51 As far as MacDill and the central command, they need to
10:11:54 be relocated.
10:11:55 I suggest Minneapolis, St. Paul, Minnesota, because
10:12:00 MacDill is going under water.
10:12:02 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Thank you, Mr. Chamblee.
10:12:04 You are next.
10:12:05 Before you start, is there anyone else that would like to
10:12:07 make a public comment for any item besides 47 through 57?
10:12:12 Thank you.
10:12:13 Sir, you are our last public comment.
10:12:14 >> Thank you.
10:12:19 Dwight Bolden, West Tampa business person.
10:12:23 What I wanted to say was that most folks would believe that
10:12:30 there are folks in West Tampa that are against
10:12:37 redevelopment, against progress or prosperity of West Tampa.
10:12:44 And I think that needs to be cleared up first.
10:12:48 I think we all want redevelopment in West Tampa.
10:12:53 It's been a long time coming.
10:12:56 I have been in the fight myself for 35 years.
10:12:59 And redevelopment coming to West Tampa is great.
10:13:03 And speaking of Riverfront Park, this mayor had four
10:13:11 meetings at Howard Blake high school for the community to
10:13:15 Putin put into Riverfront Park.
10:13:18 He wanted to hear what the people wanted in Riverfront Park.
10:13:23 This mayor promised us in that very first meeting that it
10:13:27 would not cost taxpayers one dime.
10:13:33 This mayor attended only two of the four meetings.
10:13:37 It was the first and the fourth.
10:13:39 And the fourth meeting, he said that this project will cost
10:13:45 taxpayers $22 million going north.
10:13:51 After saying it would not cost taxpayers anything.
10:13:56 There is not a problem with that, but the problem is that
10:13:58 when you talk about the input from the community for
10:14:01 Riverfront Park, the folks that live 75 feet away from
10:14:07 Riverfront Park was completely ignored.
10:14:10 They have no input in what's going in Riverfront Park.
10:14:14 All I say is that the African-American community of West
10:14:18 Tampa, that community that is 75 feet away from the park, be
10:14:23 included in the progress, the economic development of
10:14:30 Riverfront Park.
10:14:32 They should get what they want out of it.
10:14:34 They should get something.
10:14:38 $35 million in community -- senior citizen community center,
10:14:43 and this mayor tell you, no, I see something wrong with
10:14:47 that.
10:14:48 I see something wrong with that.
10:14:50 In closing, the other part of that is that this mayor said
10:14:54 that -- his people said that Riverfront Park will hold a
10:14:58 capacity of 10,000 people on the outside.
10:15:04 But there is no facility there to hold 10% of the people
10:15:08 there indoors.
10:15:12 Again, I see something wrong with that.
10:15:16 Thank you.
10:15:16 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Thank you, sir.
10:15:17 Okay.
10:15:18 We will go on with our agenda.
10:15:20 The next item before we go to item number 3, we would ask if
10:15:25 there's any requests from the public for reconsideration of
10:15:28 legislative matters only.
10:15:31 I see no one.
10:15:32 Item number 3 is an ordinance for changing chapter 14.
10:15:37 Mr. Miranda, will you please take item number 3?
10:15:41 Miranda move an ordinance presented for first reading
10:15:43 consideration, an ordinance of the city of Tampa, Florida
10:15:46 amending Tampa code section 14-30 to modify the definition
10:15:50 of knowledge required on the part of a vehicle owner to deny
10:15:54 qualification as an innocent owner under the ordinance and
10:15:56 to change the standard of proof required in judicial
10:15:59 proceedings, providing for severability, providing an
10:16:01 effective date.
10:16:01 >> Second.
10:16:03 >>MIKE SUAREZ: I have a motion by Mr. Miranda.
10:16:04 A second from Mr. Cohen.
10:16:05 All in favor of that motion please indicate by saying aye.
10:16:08 Any opposed?
10:16:08 >>THE CLERK: Second reading and adoption will be held on
10:16:13 June 2nd, 2016 at 9:30 a.m.
10:16:18 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Thank you.
10:16:18 We go on to our committee reports.
10:16:21 Public Safety Committee, Mr. Miranda as chair.
10:16:23 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: I move items 5 through 7.
10:16:32 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Motion by Mr. Miranda, second by Mrs.
10:16:33 Montelione.
10:16:34 All in favor?
10:16:35 Any opposed?
10:16:35 Thank you.
10:16:36 Next up is Parks, Recreation, Culture Committee, Mr.
10:16:40 Maniscalco.
10:16:41 >>GUIDO MANISCALCO: I move item number 8.
10:16:43 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: Second.
10:16:45 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Motion by Mr. Maniscalco.
10:16:46 Second by Mr. Miranda.
10:16:47 All in favor of that motion?
10:16:49 Any opposed?
10:16:50 Thank you.
10:16:50 Public Works Committee, Mr. Frank Reddick, chair.
10:16:53 >>FRANK REDDICK: It 9 through 23.
10:16:56 >> Second.
10:16:58 >>MIKE SUAREZ: A second from Mr. Miranda.
10:16:59 All those in favor of that motion please indicate by saying
10:17:01 aye.
10:17:02 Any opposed?
10:17:04 Thank you.
10:17:05 Finance Committee, Mr. Harry Cohen.
10:17:07 >>HARRY COHEN: Move items 24 through 29.
10:17:10 >>YVONNE CAPIN: Second.
10:17:11 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Motion by Mr. Cohen, second from Mrs. Capin.
10:17:13 All in favor?
10:17:15 Any opposed?
10:17:17 Thank you.
10:17:20 Building, zoning, preservation committee,.
10:17:23 >>LISA MONTELIONE: I move items 30 through 43, and 45.
10:17:28 >>HARRY COHEN: Second.
10:17:30 >>MIKE SUAREZ: I have a motion from Mrs. Montelione, a
10:17:32 second from Mr. Miranda.
10:17:33 All in favor of that motion please indicate by saying aye.
10:17:36 Any opposed?
10:17:37 Next up is transportation committee.
10:17:40 Ms. Capin.
10:17:42 >>YVONNE CAPIN: Thank you, Mr. Chair.
10:17:43 I move item 46.
10:17:45 >> Second.
10:17:47 >> Motion by Mrs. Capin.
10:17:49 Second by Mr. Cohen.
10:17:50 All in favor of that motion?
10:17:52 Any opposed?
10:17:53 Thank you.
10:17:53 Next up are our 9:30 public hearings.
10:17:56 I apologize for the lateness of the hearings being started.
10:17:59 All those -- I would like a motion to open item number 47,
10:18:04 please.
10:18:05 A motion by Mrs. Montelione.
10:18:07 Second from Mr. Maniscalco.
10:18:09 All in favor of that motion?
10:18:10 Any opposed?
10:18:13 Anyone that would like to speak on item number 47, 47 only,
10:18:17 please stand and be sworn in.
10:18:19 (Oath administered by Clerk).
10:18:32 >>MARTIN SHELBY: I would ask at this time that council make
10:18:34 a motion to receive and file all the e-mails and documents
10:18:37 that have been received and available for public inspection.
10:18:39 >> So moved.
10:18:42 >> [Off microphone.]
10:18:45 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Including those items.
10:18:46 Okay.
10:18:47 I have a motion from Mrs. Montelione.
10:18:49 A second from Mr. Maniscalco.
10:18:50 All in favor of that motion?
10:18:53 Okay.
10:18:54 Thank you very much.
10:18:56 Petitioner?
10:19:07 >>JOHN GRANDOFF: Suite 3700 Bank of America Plaza, on second
10:19:10 reading, on behalf of LLC.
10:19:14 I'm available for any questions you may have.
10:19:18 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Thank you.
10:19:21 Is there anyone in the public that would like to speak on
10:19:23 item number 47, please come forward.
10:19:25 >> Kimberly overman, on behalf Seminole Heights, commonly
10:19:41 known as the Heights urban core chamber.
10:19:44 We would like to endorse this project in terms of rezoning.
10:19:50 It's in line with the Seminole Heights business district as
10:19:54 well as the comp plan for this particular area.
10:19:56 The project would act as a buffer zone between commercial
10:20:01 intensive and residential.
10:20:02 And we would be see that as an addition and a value to the
10:20:05 community.
10:20:06 Thank you for your time.
10:20:08 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Thank you.
10:20:09 Anyone else in the public that would like to speak on item
10:20:11 number 47?
10:20:12 >> Motion to close.
10:20:18 >> Motion by Mr. Cohen, second by Mrs. Montelione.
10:20:21 All in favor?
10:20:23 Any opposed?
10:20:24 Thank you.
10:20:25 Mr. Reddick -- excuse me, Mrs. Capin, will you please take
10:20:29 item number 47?
10:20:32 >>YVONNE CAPIN: Thank you, Mr. Chair.
10:20:33 An ordinance rezoning -- being presented for second reading
10:20:37 and adoption, an ordinance rezoning property in the general
10:20:39 vicinity of 6501 and 6505 North "A" Diana Street and 103
10:20:48 West Diana Street in the city of Tampa, Florida and more
10:20:52 particularly described in section 1 from zoning district
10:20:54 classifications SH-RS, Seminole Heights, residential,
10:21:00 single-family, detached, SH-RM, Seminole Heights,
10:21:04 residential, multifamily, providing an effective date.
10:21:06 >> Second.
10:21:07 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Motion from Mrs. Capin.
10:21:09 Second from Mr. Cohen.
10:21:10 All in favor of that motion please indicate by saying aye.
10:21:13 I'm sorry?
10:21:15 Roll call, I apologize.
10:21:17 Roll call vote.
10:21:17 >>THE CLERK: Not recording yet.
10:21:36 Now I do.
10:21:37 Three times.
10:21:41 Motion carried with Miranda, Reddick and Maniscalco voting
10:21:45 no.
10:21:47 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Thank you very much.
10:21:48 Items number 48 through 51, if we could open those.
10:21:52 >> Move to open the public hearings.
10:21:55 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Motion from Mr. Cohen.
10:21:56 Second from Mrs. Capin.
10:21:58 All in favor of that motion?
10:22:00 Any opposed?
10:22:01 Madam clerk, if you could please swear in those members of
10:22:04 the public that would like to be speak on items 48 through
10:22:06 51.
10:22:07 48 through 51.
10:22:08 (Oath administered by Clerk)
10:22:19 Item number 48.
10:22:20 Petitioner?
10:22:20 >>REBECCA KERT: Legal department.
10:22:25 Item 48 is to correct a scrivener's error in a legal
10:22:28 description, and there is a suit site plan as well, and the
10:22:32 legal description was also on the site plan.
10:22:36 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Thank you.
10:22:36 Any questions of staff on this?
10:22:40 Anyone from the public on item number 48?
10:22:43 48?
10:22:43 >> Move to close.
10:22:46 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Motion by Mr. Cohen.
10:22:47 Second by Mrs. Capin.
10:22:49 All in favor?
10:22:50 Opposed?
10:22:51 Mr. Reddick, would you take item number 48, please, sir?
10:22:54 >>FRANK REDDICK: Move an ordinance being presented for
10:22:57 second reading and adoption, an ordinance amending ordinance
10:22:59 number 2016-3 passed and ordained by the City Council of the
10:23:06 City of Tampa on January 7, 2016 which approved a special
10:23:10 use permit, small venue, on premises consumption and retail
10:23:15 package sales off-premises consumption for beer, wine and
10:23:19 liquor for property located at 6428 and 6430 North Florida
10:23:23 Avenue correcting a scrivener's error by substituting a
10:23:26 revised exhibit "A" and exhibit "B" for the exhibits that
10:23:31 were supplied in error, providing for severability,
10:23:33 providing an effective date.
10:23:33 >> Second.
10:23:35 >>MIKE SUAREZ: I have a motion from Mr. Reddick, a second
10:23:37 from Mr. Cohen.
10:23:38 Please vote and record.
10:23:48 >>THE CLERK: Motion carried with Miranda voting no.
10:23:52 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Item number 49.
10:23:54 Petitioner?
10:23:55 >> Nina McGucken Alvarez, 1320 Ninth avenue, suite 210, here
10:24:06 on behalf of Heights Property LLC.
10:24:08 We appreciate your approval on first reading.
10:24:13 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Thank you.
10:24:13 Anyone in the public to speak on item 49?
10:24:16 49?
10:24:17 Please come forward.
10:24:23 >>GLORIA MOREDA: Land development.
10:24:24 I just wanted for the record that the site plan has been
10:24:28 revised according to City Council's direction.
10:24:31 It's been given to the city clerk's office.
10:24:35 I know there has been some communication as to the use of
10:24:39 the property and I just for the record to again identify
10:24:43 what is being presented before you.
10:24:46 It is a small venue, beer, wine, liquor, on premises
10:24:50 consumption and package sales off-site consumption.
10:24:56 The site plan included a 3,110 square foot restaurant with
10:25:01 bar, 950 square foot retail wine shop, which allows for
10:25:07 consumption on premises as well as the package sales, and
10:25:12 the 750 square foot ice cream shop which is really a
10:25:17 restaurant by our definition.
10:25:18 I know there has been some communications that indicated
10:25:22 that this site could turn into a bar, over 4,000 square
10:25:28 feet.
10:25:29 That is not possible.
10:25:29 That is not what they are requesting.
10:25:31 I just wanted to place that for the record.
10:25:34 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Thank you.
10:25:42 Ma'am?
10:25:42 >> Kimberly Overman, 4610 North Central Avenue.
10:25:50 I'm wearing my chamber hat on as we speak.
10:25:53 But also I'm wearing the business owner hat.
10:25:56 You know, when we have investors that invest a great deal of
10:26:02 resources and money to bring economic development into our
10:26:04 community, I think it's a wise choice to support that
10:26:07 business.
10:26:08 And work within the code that the city provides for an
10:26:12 opportunity for a business owner to provide services to our
10:26:15 community.
10:26:16 In this case, the applicant has done a wise job of actually
10:26:20 addressing community concerns within the guidelines of the
10:26:23 code.
10:26:25 They are offering a diverse mixed use property available for
10:26:28 development in that particular area.
10:26:31 And this is an application for alcohol.
10:26:33 It is not an issue or associated with anything other than
10:26:38 what the department has actually reviewed, when comes to
10:26:43 outdoor noise, sound and music.
10:26:45 This applicant is coming to you for official using
10:26:48 application and I encourage you to support this application.
10:26:51 Thank you very much for your time.
10:26:54 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Thank you.
10:26:54 Next, please.
10:26:55 >> Bill Hunter.
10:26:59 I live at 5806 branch Avenue.
10:27:02 And I am a trustee for the Old Seminole Heights neighborhood
10:27:05 association.
10:27:06 The Old Seminole Heights neighborhood association is
10:27:10 requesting that council deny this application.
10:27:14 All of you received a letter on May 17th from Randy
10:27:17 Barron and the board has reviewed this letter and endorses
10:27:23 it completely.
10:27:25 It's the long standing policy of OSHA to oppose for hours
10:27:33 greater than 1 a.m.
10:27:34 It is not that we are opposed to the business or to the wet
10:27:36 zoning, but feel that requiring a 1 a.m. close is
10:27:40 inappropriate considering the proximity of this property to
10:27:44 residential property.
10:27:47 At the April 28th hearing the attorney mentioned that
10:27:50 there are a number of existing businesses in that area that
10:27:52 are permitted to be open until 3 a.m.
10:27:54 This is correct.
10:27:56 Most of those businesses were grandfathered in years ago.
10:28:00 But there are also many that are not permitted to stay open
10:28:03 until 3.
10:28:05 The Refinery, the Independent, Ichicoro, and the Rooster
10:28:11 just to name a few and all of these have been very
10:28:13 successful.
10:28:14 Ichicoro requested a 3 a.m. close.
10:28:20 That request was denied on the basis of section 27-129 under
10:28:25 subsection 3 which states that the usage would be
10:28:28 incompatible with the continuous and surrounding property
10:28:32 for the use.
10:28:33 And then section 5 which is that the use will establish or
10:28:36 encourage more intensive or incompatible uses surrounding
10:28:40 the area.
10:28:41 Subsection 7 was also discussed.
10:28:44 There are 2001 businesses in recent history that have been
10:28:47 approved for 3 a.m. close.
10:28:50 The Red Star Rock bar and Fodder and Shine, which closes at
10:28:57 midnight on the weekends.
10:29:00 Rock bar initially asked for a 1 a.m. closing time and
10:29:03 members of council suggested they change the application to
10:29:06 3 a.m.
10:29:07 Council may or may not be aware that red star rock bar has
10:29:10 been the subject of numerous complaints regarding late-night
10:29:14 noise.
10:29:15 Also, they received a waiver for parking based on the fact
10:29:18 there's ab vacant park next to them used for overflow
10:29:21 parking.
10:29:22 That lot has since been purchased and there are plans for an
10:29:25 apartment building.
10:29:29 Lot for that parking will Croat parking issues on the side
10:29:32 streets that you see happening in SoHo.
10:29:35 Petitioner's attorney also mentioned that an earlier code
10:29:38 close would put her client at a disadvantage.
10:29:41 But there are many, many successful businesses in Seminole
10:29:43 Heights that close at 1 a.m. or earlier.
10:29:48 The future tenant Ybor City wine bar is housed in a location
10:29:51 in Ybor that allows for a 3 a.m. close but according to
10:29:54 their website the wine bar closes at midnight on the
10:29:57 weekends.
10:29:58 Ybor is an area that has a much higher demand for late-night
10:30:02 hours, but she chooses to close at midnight.
10:30:06 Ybor City wine bar has obviously been very successful with
10:30:08 the more restrictive hours.
10:30:11 We are not concerned about the opening of a second location
10:30:13 in Seminole Heights.
10:30:15 What we are concerned about is what happens if she moves out
10:30:19 and another less desirable tenant moves in?
10:30:22 What happens if Ms. Graham decides to sell the property and
10:30:25 suddenly we have 6,500 square feet of property all wet zoned
10:30:31 for 3 a.m. closing?
10:30:33 Thank you.
10:30:34 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Thank you, sir.
10:30:36 Next, please.
10:30:37 >> Debby Johnson.
10:30:41 Address 7908 north Highland Avenue.
10:30:44 I'm the president of the Old Seminole Heights neighborhood
10:30:46 association.
10:30:48 And I am basically going to be picking up where Mr. Hunter
10:30:51 left off.
10:30:52 In the April 28th meeting, Councilwoman Chapin mentioned
10:30:56 several times that chapter 14 allows for 7 a.m. to 3 a.m.
10:30:59 hour for businesses that serve alcohol.
10:31:02 I think the point that she was trying to make is that code
10:31:05 allows it.
10:31:06 So be it.
10:31:07 However, code does not allow for alcoholic beverage sales at
10:31:10 businesses that are within 21 feet of residential without a
10:31:13 waiver.
10:31:15 There are parking requirements that are not being met.
10:31:17 You shouldn't draw your decision are from unless you are
10:31:21 willing to look at all of the facts and the waivers that are
10:31:23 being granted.
10:31:24 In fact, the application of section 27-129 should always be
10:31:29 considered in special use places such as this.
10:31:32 This provides for adding conditions to lessen the potential
10:31:35 negative impact on surrounding neighborhoods, particularly
10:31:39 subsection 7 which states that these considerations shall be
10:31:42 given to potentially adverse effects generally on adjoining
10:31:47 and nearby properties.
10:31:47 The subsection goes on to say where such potentially adverse
10:31:51 effects are found, consideration shall be given for special
10:31:55 remedial measures appropriate in the particular circumstance
10:31:59 of the case, including screening or buffering, landscaping,
10:32:04 or hours of operation.
10:32:05 I don't think any of you can deny the fact that there will
10:32:08 be an adverse effect on the surrounding neighborhood.
10:32:11 It is your obligation to consider the special measure.
10:32:15 We are looking for compromise here.
10:32:18 If you are going to grant the waiver and allow this to occur
10:32:20 in our backyard, you should respect the residential
10:32:25 properties by denying this request as presented and
10:32:28 requiring restricted hours.
10:32:30 Elizabeth did a great job with that building and we
10:32:33 appreciate her contributions to the community.
10:32:35 However, we have to be forward-looking when making these
10:32:39 types of decisions.
10:32:40 We do not want Seminole Heights to become the next SoHo.
10:32:43 The property does not meet the distance requirements, nor
10:32:47 does it meet the parking requirements.
10:32:48 And most certainly if the application is approved as is will
10:32:53 have adverse effects on the surrounding neighborhood.
10:32:56 We ask that council fulfill your obligation to ensure the
10:33:00 best possible compatibility between competing interests of
10:33:04 business and residents by approving this request with wet
10:33:08 zoned hours restricted between 11 a.m. and 1 a.m.
10:33:12 Thank you.
10:33:15 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Thank you.
10:33:16 Next up.
10:33:19 My name is Randy Barron, Tampa, Florida.
10:33:25 I am not sure I can say it any better than that, but I do
10:33:28 want to apologize.
10:33:30 I was the person that sent in the five-page memo, but did
10:33:34 mention that the worst case scenario could be a bar.
10:33:38 And after speaking with land development, and legal, it was
10:33:45 determined that's not true.
10:33:46 Our best case scenario is MacDintons can we can now fill
10:33:52 that space as we know if it's a restaurant, a wine bar and
10:33:56 another restaurant, and they all three combined, which I
10:33:58 believe it can be, and Mrs. Mort can -- Mrs. Moreda can be
10:34:03 confirm or not, we can now get one property and that is 155
10:34:07 or 6 oak pansy of a restaurant/bar.
10:34:11 There are 17 spaces on that locational oh indicated for
10:34:16 cars.
10:34:17 You have a neighborhood 25 feet away that has a grid pattern
10:34:23 that allows for parking.
10:34:25 Not in the front of the house but on the side of each house.
10:34:27 There is going to be parking in there.
10:34:30 All of us have worked with the neighborhood associations in
10:34:34 South Howard.
10:34:34 We know that if you put something in -- and we understood
10:34:38 that in Seminole Heights when we started -- when we started
10:34:42 trying to attract these businesses in, we tried to set up a
10:34:46 pattern of development that would try to avoid the mistakes
10:34:51 that happened in South Howard.
10:34:53 And one of the ways that we did that is we went to all of
10:34:56 these restaurants, and we tried to get them to voluntarily
10:34:59 agree to reduced hours, and they did.
10:35:02 There is a pattern of development.
10:35:03 There's a pattern of development even as recent as January
10:35:08 that's the scrivener's error that you just approved.
10:35:10 That is almost identical site plan where you have a strip
10:35:17 center that's going to have a wine bar, and they have come
10:35:23 in and asked for midnight, weekdays, and 1 a.m. on weekends
10:35:28 and council just approved that.
10:35:29 I ask that you consider maintaining this pattern of
10:35:33 development.
10:35:35 Once you grant a 3 a.m. wet zoning,l it is almost impossible
10:35:39 to remove it.
10:35:40 And, in fact, I can't remember any wet zonings that have
10:35:45 been removed in the City of Tampa as far as I remember.
10:35:51 So in conclusion, I would ask that you approve this, but
10:35:57 approve this with restricted hours.
10:35:59 And please apply the requirements 27.29 in order to
10:36:04 determine what's the best compromise to make sure that the
10:36:08 impacts on the surrounding neighborhoods are alleviated.
10:36:11 Thank you very much.
10:36:12 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Thank you.
10:36:13 Next, please.
10:36:17 >> Jamie Kosar, owner of the Ybor City wine bar.
10:36:25 I did not think I would be speaking again this morning in
10:36:26 front of you you after last session.
10:36:28 And I will say once again out of respect for your time, I
10:36:31 could have passed the house with restaurant and bar owners
10:36:40 to 3 a.m., but I am actually -- I am quite surprise
10:36:44 surprised and disappointed to hear the concerns from the
10:36:46 property owners who unfortunately lack the vision for the
10:36:50 City of Tampa.
10:36:51 I'm sure for every property owner that is here today that is
10:36:53 concerned, you will find many other property owners who are
10:36:56 in support of, A, cleaning of Florida Avenue, B, increasing
10:37:02 property values, C, investing in the future of Seminole
10:37:04 Heights.
10:37:07 Per the last visit here, you heard quite amount of support
10:37:11 in favor of the 3 a.m. wet zoning.
10:37:14 So it want to address a few of the concerns I heard today.
10:37:16 Adverse effects.
10:37:17 I hardly consider increasing property values and bringing
10:37:20 upscale establishment and building block as an adverse
10:37:24 effect to Seminole Heights.
10:37:25 As far as parking, we have --
10:37:29 >>MIKE SUAREZ: They are not going to vote, we are.
10:37:31 >> Yes.
10:37:32 >> If you want for us to hear you, face us.
10:37:35 >> Yes, sir.
10:37:36 It was my understanding that we did meet the parking
10:37:39 requirements in the event we had presented a valet parking
10:37:44 option, which was separate Lowe and we will get more into
10:37:48 that.
10:37:48 So not only are we bringing an upscale establishment, we are
10:37:52 bringing income valet parking which again cone sides with
10:37:58 the future vision.
10:38:01 Actually I am not that prepared today but I am asking you to
10:38:03 support the residents not here today who may support the
10:38:07 future of Seminole Heights and want to increase their
10:38:09 property values.
10:38:10 That's it.
10:38:11 Thank you for your consideration.
10:38:13 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Thank you.
10:38:13 Next.
10:38:14 >> I was actually not sworn in.
10:38:25 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Is there anyone else that's going to speak on
10:38:26 this item that has not been sworn in?
10:38:29 Thank you.
10:38:30 You want to speak, ma'am, that has not been sworn in?
10:38:34 Okay, go ahead.
10:38:35 (Oath administered by Clerk).
10:38:40 >> My name is Joshua Valdez.
10:38:42 I'm actually a resident of Seminole Heights, 1918 -- you
10:38:49 remember me.
10:38:49 I'm the romantic guy.
10:38:52 >>YVONNE CAPIN: Oh, yeah.
10:38:55 (Laughter).
10:38:55 >> On this issue, this was actually a great idea.
10:39:00 A lot of good work for the community.
10:39:02 I support all her projects that she's done so far.
10:39:05 And like I said before, and the previous time I was here, a
10:39:10 wine bar, a restaurant and ice cream shop.
10:39:12 It's a different clientele.
10:39:14 Seminole Heights, when it comes to parking, if you actually
10:39:18 look at Seminole Heights, buildings, residences, that's the
10:39:23 way Tampa is.
10:39:25 It's not getting any better unless we are going to start
10:39:28 destroying houses.
10:39:30 How do we fix that problem?
10:39:31 Parking is a problem that there is no real clear resolution
10:39:37 for.
10:39:37 When it comes to wet zoning, I do work in a bar.
10:39:40 I would like an opportunity to go late night near my home to
10:39:44 enjoy a glass of wine, enjoy a nice dessert.
10:39:48 And this is an opportunity for improving the community.
10:39:50 This isn't a rock bar.
10:39:52 This is a wine bar.
10:39:54 It's going to be selling wine.
10:39:55 A different type of clientele.
10:39:57 And I believe the gentleman previously said the Ybor City
10:40:01 wine bar, their hours are 11.
10:40:02 I frequent the wine bar very often.
10:40:04 Probably around 2:00, 2:30.
10:40:06 Very close to 3.
10:40:09 I am very much friends with the staff.
10:40:10 Just because a website may have different hours, doesn't
10:40:15 necessarily indicate what their operation really is like.
10:40:20 Look at Obamacare.
10:40:21 I mean -- (Laughter)
10:40:25 Legitimately.
10:40:26 That's all I really have to say and support for this.
10:40:29 I am the future demographic of Seminole Heights.
10:40:32 I'm 31 years old.
10:40:33 I'm a young single male.
10:40:35 I'm the one who is going to be purchasing houses in Seminole
10:40:38 Heights and this is going to attract people like me to make
10:40:41 investment in the community, people like me that's going to
10:40:43 make investments in the businesses there, and if I don't
10:40:46 have the opportunity to actually give my money to the
10:40:49 business because when I get off of work they can't serve me,
10:40:53 that's not fun for me.
10:40:56 My actually have to drive to Ybor.
10:40:59 What I keep hearing is, now what?
10:41:01 Go give Ybor your money, give SoHo your money.
10:41:05 Nobody in Seminole rights wants values to go up like South
10:41:09 Howard and that's all I have to say.
10:41:11 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Thank you.
10:41:12 Last time, anyone who would like to speak, member of the
10:41:15 public, on item 49, AB-2-16-05.
10:41:21 Thank you.
10:41:22 Petitioner, rebuttal?
10:41:23 Before you start, petitioner, if I could, the woman that is
10:41:27 going to be one of the business owners that are renting from
10:41:31 your petitioner, if you could stipulate that they do have a
10:41:34 financial interest in this going forward, I would appreciate
10:41:36 that.
10:41:36 >> At the wine bar?
10:41:38 She is not an owner, she's a tenant.
10:41:40 >>MIKE SUAREZ: I understand that.
10:41:41 I said financial interest in this going forward.
10:41:43 That's all I ask.
10:41:44 >> Certainly.
10:41:46 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Go ahead.
10:41:46 >> Earlier, we had a public hearing on April 28th.
10:41:49 There was extensive public comment at that time.
10:41:52 And I think that you will recall that it was in fact
10:41:55 overwhelming support for this application and this project.
10:41:58 I presented at that hearing, we did request four waivers.
10:42:02 We went through them, one of which was a residential
10:42:05 separation waiver.
10:42:05 I showed and submitted to council a map of support from the
10:42:11 surrounding neighbors.
10:42:13 The second waiver was for alcoholic beverage sales in a
10:42:17 bicycle area, and we also presented evidence to council that
10:42:20 the reason for that request was so that the wine store could
10:42:25 have outdoor events if need be.
10:42:29 The third and fourth waivers were parking waivers.
10:42:32 One was to allow 100% compact spots, and fourth was a waiver
10:42:37 to reduce the spot needed from 29 to 26.
10:42:41 So we requested actually a waiver for three spots.
10:42:45 I informed council that my clients had a lease with a
10:42:48 surrounding neighbor for up to 22 spots once the restaurant
10:42:51 is actually leased.
10:42:52 We don't believe that in this situation the waivers that we
10:42:55 requested are inappropriate, and actually all of which you
10:42:58 have voted to approve at first reading.
10:43:01 Between the first and second reading we simply revised the
10:43:04 site plan to reflect the hours consistent with chapter 14.
10:43:08 In chapter 14 again is what the city has already deemed to
10:43:11 be reasonable hours for the sales of alcoholic beverages.
10:43:15 And we do believe, as we presented at first reading, that
10:43:19 the use is compatible with the surrounding neighborhood, and
10:43:22 again my client is just asking float to be competitively
10:43:27 disadvantaged.
10:43:27 So we are asking again for your support.
10:43:30 Thank you.
10:43:31 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Thank you.
10:43:32 Okay.
10:43:36 Item number 49, do I have some discussion?
10:43:44 >>YVONNE CAPIN: Yes, thank you.
10:43:46 Okay, my name was brought up, so I am going to say that no
10:43:54 one brought up -- when they brought up the grandfathered
10:43:58 3 a.m., not one person brought a fact that there's issues
10:44:02 with those.
10:44:04 And doesn't stop anyone from moving into Seminole Heights
10:44:08 even though they were there.
10:44:09 That's one.
10:44:14 The grid of Tampa, old Tampa neighborhood.
10:44:18 We wouldn't be able to approve anything without waivers.
10:44:21 That's just the way it is.
10:44:25 Second, I heard no, no, no, no.
10:44:31 But, you know, we have to understand alcohol is a legal
10:44:37 beverage.
10:44:41 I hear people, and it is the abuse of it as any other
10:44:47 substance, but it is legal.
10:44:55 Again, the grandfathered neighborhood did not stop anyone
10:44:59 from moving into that neighborhood, and they were there
10:45:01 already.
10:45:03 So when we look at this -- and Mrs. Moreda -- I'm sorry,
10:45:12 Gloria -- please restate what you stated before because we
10:45:17 heard a lot of misinformation.
10:45:20 >>GLORIA MOREDA: Land development.
10:45:22 Concerning the use of the property that's being proposed,
10:45:26 the site plan shows that there is -- I grabbed the wrong
10:45:31 file.
10:45:36 >>YVONNE CAPIN: That's okay.
10:45:37 I mispronounced your last name.
10:45:39 I apologize.
10:45:41 (Laughter)
10:45:47 >>GLORIA MOREDA: The special use buff for small venue, beer,
10:45:50 wine, liquor on premises consumption and package sales
10:45:54 off-site consumption.
10:45:56 The site plan shows a 3,110 square foot restaurant with bar,
10:46:03 950 square foot retail bar-wine shop, as well as the 750
10:46:09 square foot ice cream shop.
10:46:12 This is zoned SH-CI, and a variety of uses are allowed, but
10:46:19 what is being presented to you as the small venue is
10:46:22 primarily a shopping center that's going to be primarily
10:46:26 restaurant.
10:46:27 There's also the component of retail sales in this proposal.
10:46:32 But it is not to be converted to solely a bar.
10:46:39 >>YVONNE CAPIN: Thank you so much for that.
10:46:40 I'm ready.
10:46:43 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Mrs. Montelione.
10:46:43 >>LISA MONTELIONE: Thank you.
10:46:46 So this isn't a decision that gives them the best possible
10:46:51 revenue.
10:46:52 So having the 3 a.m. closing allows them the flexibility on,
10:46:57 you know, some nights or maybe most nights.
10:47:00 They are not going to be open till 3 a.m. because it may not
10:47:03 make financial sense for them.
10:47:05 You know, they are going to see where their clientele is and
10:47:08 what times they come in and when the height of their
10:47:12 business is.
10:47:13 It seems that everyone is afraid that they are going to be
10:47:16 open till 3 a.m. every night of the week and it's going to
10:47:19 be raucous, noisy place.
10:47:22 And I don't see that happening with most of the
10:47:29 establishments that are open in the City of Tampa.
10:47:33 We have a few.
10:47:34 We have a handful of establishments that are problematic and
10:47:41 do cause issues, but it's a handful.
10:47:44 When you consider the hundreds and hundreds and hundreds of
10:47:48 establishments that are open, it's a very small fraction
10:47:52 that may cause problems.
10:47:55 And I heard some people say that we approved an
10:47:58 establishment in Seminole Heights that is a problem.
10:48:01 Well, you know, I guess I am going to be asking TPD how many
10:48:05 calls that they have gotten.
10:48:08 If it's a problem, we haven't had anybody contact my office,
10:48:12 or I'm not sure if anybody else has received complaints,
10:48:15 phone calls about an establishment that's been problematic
10:48:20 there.
10:48:22 So if it's an irritant, then bring to the our attention.
10:48:27 But to penalize every person or every business that comes in
10:48:32 based on the actions of one or the actions of a few, I don't
10:48:38 think, is fair.
10:48:41 So that's kind of generalizing, but that's the gist of how I
10:48:49 feel about the hours.
10:48:51 And as far as parking, anybody can come through being on a
10:48:56 regular basis knows that I hate parking.
10:48:58 Parking makes it easy for people to drive cars, it makes it
10:49:01 very convenient, and, you know, we are trying to promote a
10:49:06 walking-biking culture in this town, and much reliance on
10:49:13 parks, and with the use that I see of Uber, legal or not, or
10:49:19 Lyft, legal or not, and there's a lot --
10:49:22 >>YVONNE CAPIN: Fingerprinted.
10:49:24 >>LISA MONTELIONE: There's a lot of people who use Uber and
10:49:28 Lyft in this town, especially people who are visiting bars
10:49:31 or restaurants that don't want to drive home.
10:49:34 There's been a decrease in DUIs in places where Uber and
10:49:40 Lyft are highly utilized.
10:49:41 So I drive through places -- not necessarily we, that have
10:49:50 an abundance of parking.
10:49:52 Most of the time their lots are empty.
10:49:55 Not all the time but most of the time.
10:49:57 And I hate seeing, you know, land gobbled up by these
10:50:01 massive parking lots.
10:50:02 So I am in support of this.
10:50:05 I think everybody knows that.
10:50:06 And those all it want to say.
10:50:08 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Any other questions or comments by council?
10:50:13 Do I have a motion to close?
10:50:15 I have a motion to close by Mr. Miranda.
10:50:17 Second by Mr. Cohen.
10:50:18 All in favor of that motion please indicate by saying aye.
10:50:21 Any opposed?
10:50:22 Mr. Cohen, will you please take number 49?
10:50:24 >>HARRY COHEN: Certainly.
10:50:26 I move an ordinance being presented for second reading and
10:50:29 adoption.
10:50:29 An ordinance repealing special use 1, S-1 permit V-12-277,
10:50:36 approving a special use permit S-2 for alcoholic beverage
10:50:39 sales, small venue on premises consumption and package
10:50:43 sales, offpremises consumption and making lawful the sale of
10:50:48 beverages regardless of alcoholic content beer wine and
10:50:51 liquor on that certain lot, plot or tract of land located at
10:50:54 6701-6707 North Florida Avenue Tampa, Florida as more
10:51:01 particularly described from section 3 that all ordinances or
10:51:03 parts of ordinances in conflict are repealed, providing an
10:51:05 effective date.
10:51:05 >> Second.
10:51:06 >>MIKE SUAREZ: I have a motion from Mr. Cohen, a second from
10:51:09 Mrs. Montelione.
10:51:10 Please record your vote.
10:51:24 >>THE CLERK: I have Miranda voting no and Mike Suarez
10:51:31 voting no.
10:51:35 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Thank you for attending.
10:51:36 Next up is item number 50.
10:51:39 Five zero.
10:51:40 If I could have petitioner.
10:51:45 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Could you say that again so people know what
10:51:47 happened?
10:51:48 >>THE CLERK: Motion carried with Miranda and Suarez voting
10:51:51 no.
10:51:55 >>YVONNE CAPIN: Much better.
10:51:57 >>GLORIA MOREDA: Land development.
10:51:57 The site plan has been revised according to council's
10:52:00 direction and given to city clerk's office.
10:52:05 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Thank you.
10:52:06 Petitioner?
10:52:07 >> My name is Joseph -- Diaz, 1907 West Kennedy Boulevard
10:52:15 here on behalf of applicant and would respect approval of
10:52:21 the application.
10:52:21 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Is there anyone in the public to speak on 50,
10:52:25 AB 2-16-06? I have a motion to close by Mr. Miranda.
10:52:29 A second by Mr. Cohen.
10:52:30 All in favor of that motion?
10:52:32 Any opposed?
10:52:35 Mrs. Montelione, please take number 50.
10:52:37 >>LISA MONTELIONE: I move an ordinance being presented for
10:52:40 second reading and adoption, an ordinance approving a
10:52:43 special use permit S-2 for alcoholic beverage sales, small
10:52:46 venue, on premises consumption and retail package sales
10:52:50 off-premises consumption and making lawful the sale of beer
10:52:53 and wine at or from that certain lot, plot or tract of land
10:52:56 located at 5908 North Armenia Avenue, Tampa, Florida, as
10:53:00 more particularly described in section 2, that all
10:53:02 ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict are repealed,
10:53:06 providing an effective date.
10:53:06 >> Second.
10:53:09 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Motion by Mrs. Montelione.
10:53:10 I have a second from Mr. Miranda.
10:53:12 Please vote and record.
10:53:13 >>THE CLERK: Motion carried with Maniscalco being absent.
10:53:25 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Thank you.
10:53:25 Item number 51.
10:53:27 Staff.
10:53:27 >> Land Development Coordination.
10:53:32 I'm here to answer any questions.
10:53:34 Applicant is here.
10:53:36 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Petitioner?
10:53:36 >> Good morning.
10:53:41 Jacob.
10:53:46 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Is there anyone in the public that would like
10:53:48 to speak on item number 51, VAC-16-12?
10:53:52 >> Move to close.
10:53:55 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Motion to close from Mrs. Montelione.
10:53:57 I have a second from Mrs. Capin.
10:53:59 All in favor of that motion indicate by saying aye.
10:54:02 Any opposed?
10:54:03 Mr. Reddick, will you please take number 51, please?
10:54:06 >>FRANK REDDICK: Yes, chair.
10:54:13 Move an ordinance for second reading and adoption, an
10:54:16 ordinance vacating, closing, discontinuing, and abandoning
10:54:19 an alleyway lying south of Ellicott street, north of
10:54:23 Louisiana Avenue, east of 32nd street and west of 34th
10:54:28 street in Belmont Heights, a subdivision in the City of
10:54:30 Tampa, Hillsborough County Florida the same being more fully
10:54:34 described in section 1 hereof subject to certain covenants
10:54:38 more particularly set forth herein providing an effective
10:54:40 date.
10:54:42 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Second by Mr. Cohen.
10:54:43 Please record your vote.
10:54:44 >>THE CLERK: Motion carried with Miranda being absent.
10:54:53 >>MIKE SUAREZ: We now go to our 10:30 a.m. hearings.
10:54:55 I would like a motion to open items 52 through 57.
10:54:59 I have a motion from Mrs. Capin, second from Mr. Cohen.
10:55:05 All in favor of that motion indicate by saying aye.
10:55:07 Any opposed?
10:55:08 Thank you.
10:55:10 If you are here to speak on items 52 through 57, please
10:55:13 stand and be sworn in.
10:55:14 (Oath administered by Clerk)
10:55:28 Staff.
10:55:28 >> Council, item number 52 was reopened on April 28th,
10:55:37 2016, and continuously for full council consideration.
10:55:42 Councilman Reddick was absent.
10:55:44 And I believe it was a tie vote, if I am not mistaken.
10:55:52 To let you know that the status of the matter before you
10:55:58 senior that you have an open public hearing.
10:56:00 There is no motion on the floor.
10:56:01 However council wishes to proceed.
10:56:04 Mr. Reddick, are you prepared to vote on this mat deer?
10:56:07 >>FRANK REDDICK: Yes, I am fully aware of this item.
10:56:09 We had discussion.
10:56:13 >>HARRY COHEN: We don't have a full council sitting here.
10:56:18 Perhaps as a result of the last result -- Mrs. Moreda, why
10:56:23 don't we go to item number 53?
10:56:28 He will be back, Mrs. Montelione.
10:56:35 Item number 53.
10:56:36 >>BARBARA LYNCH: Land development coordination.
10:56:40 This is a city initiated application to vacate two
10:56:45 rights-of-way in Cuscaden park.
10:56:47 I have an overhead.
10:56:57 The city owns the property in red, and the two rights-of-way
10:57:02 that are not vacated, but within the park perimeter,
10:57:08 20th Avenue and the alley shown in yellow.
10:57:11 And this is north Ybor area.
10:57:14 And the street lies south of 21st Avenue, and goes from
10:57:25 Avenida Republica de Cuba and west of 15th street.
10:57:29 I have some pictures.
10:57:31 And the first is 20th Avenue, and the park proper. This
10:57:42 is 20th Avenue looking east.
10:57:47 And this is the approximate location of the alleyway, some
10:57:52 ball field there, and the alleyway from ARDC, Cuscaden park.
10:58:00 The city requested this be vacated, the right-of-way if it
10:58:06 becomes park property.
10:58:08 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Thank you.
10:58:09 Any questions?
10:58:11 Is there anyone in the public that would like to speak on
10:58:13 item number 53, VAC-16-10?
10:58:17 I see no one.
10:58:18 >> Move to close.
10:58:21 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Motion to close by Mr. Cohen.
10:58:22 I have a second by Mrs. Capin.
10:58:24 All in favor of that motion?
10:58:26 Any opposed?
10:58:27 Mr. Miranda, will you please take number 53.
10:58:30 53.
10:58:31 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: Item number 53, public hearing
10:58:36 VAC-16-10.
10:58:39 An ordinance presented for first reading consideration.
10:58:41 An ordinance vacating, closing, discontinuing, abandoning a
10:58:44 portion of 20th Street Avenue and alley lying south of
10:58:47 21st Avenue north of 17th Avenue east of Avenida
10:58:53 Republica de Cuba and west of 15th street in Cuscaden
10:58:59 grove first addition a subdivision in the City of Tampa,
10:59:02 Hillsborough County the same being more fully described in
10:59:05 section 1 hereof subject to certain covenants more
10:59:08 particularly set forth herein providing an effective date.
10:59:10 >>MIKE SUAREZ: All in favor?
10:59:11 Any opposed?
10:59:12 Thank you.
10:59:12 >>THE CLERK: Second reading and adoption will be on June
10:59:16 2nd, the 2016 at 9:30 a.m.
10:59:19 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Thank you very much.
10:59:19 We go back to item number 52.
10:59:22 Mrs. Moreda.
10:59:29 >>GLORIA MOREDA: Land development.
10:59:31 The proposal before you is for a small venue, beer wine
10:59:38 consumption on premises only.
10:59:41 From the beginning when this was first heard, the applicant
10:59:45 did shrink the area to just the inside area.
10:59:50 It's 3,770 square feet of just inside AB sales area.
10:59:56 There are no off-street parking spaces being provided.
11:00:01 Staff sees there are two waivers before you, the waiver for
11:00:04 the distance separation from other AB sales establishments
11:00:08 from 250 to 112 feet, and there is reduction of the required
11:00:14 parking, and I think this is where staff and the applicant
11:00:18 have some disagreement.
11:00:20 I reviewed the site plan with the fire marshal staff and
11:00:24 they indicated that they anticipate occupant load of about
11:00:30 196.
11:00:31 The site plan indicates that there are, I believe, 96
11:00:35 individuals as occupant load.
11:00:38 Even with that, it would be a reduction of 100% of the
11:00:42 required parking.
11:00:43 Staff has concerns about that.
11:00:46 If council is inclined to approve it, there are some site
11:00:49 plan modifications that I would like and I will get with the
11:00:53 applicant before first and second reading if council is
11:00:57 inclined to approve.
11:00:59 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Any questions of staff?
11:01:00 Mr. Reddick.
11:01:01 >>FRANK REDDICK: When we first discussed this item, I
11:01:04 thought that petitioner indicated he had some type of
11:01:09 agreement about off-site parking.
11:01:14 And I hear now that there appears none?
11:01:17 >>GLORIA MOREDA: I believe he tried.
11:01:18 He has not been able to secure a long-term lease on any of
11:01:21 the properties.
11:01:23 And at that point we will not recognize that as required
11:01:26 parking.
11:01:27 >>FRANK REDDICK: Thank you.
11:01:30 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Any other questions of staff?
11:01:31 Petitioner?
11:01:36 You can talk to us and then talk to her.
11:01:38 >>> The parking concern was public parking, about 30 spaces,
11:01:47 about less than 500 feet from the space, and we were allowed
11:01:51 to use that space, and directly across the street I have
11:01:57 about 20 parking spots, Marvin Knight, and the people did
11:02:00 not provide me a lease but we are paying into the lot.
11:02:03 So next door to me is 2110, parking, but he will not provide
11:02:19 me a lease.
11:02:19 >>FRANK REDDICK: I don't know what kind of arrangement you
11:02:24 call that but you are telling me, Mr. Knight, you want to
11:02:28 pay him and he won't give you a lease?
11:02:31 >> Correct, sir.
11:02:32 What he wants is a trial period of a year to make sure that
11:02:35 his property is taken care of and his demands are pretty
11:02:41 high.
11:02:41 I said I can't do that until -- it's like tit for tat.
11:02:47 If you approve that then, I will send it in for our
11:02:51 clientele.
11:02:51 >>FRANK REDDICK: But agreement with no assurances at all.
11:02:58 And Mr. Knight can deny it at any time.
11:03:00 >> Absolutely.
11:03:02 >>FRANK REDDICK: You are willing to take that gamble?
11:03:04 >> I have no choice on that street at this point,
11:03:06 unfortunately.
11:03:07 But we do have city parking which provides over 36 parking
11:03:10 spaces, and it is public parking.
11:03:14 And we don't need that much but we have been able to use the
11:03:19 parking spaces.
11:03:20 And we are a theater.
11:03:26 We have rehearsals from 8:00 o'clock until almost midnight
11:03:31 so directly across the street is much better.
11:03:34 So it's really across the street just for safety.
11:03:36 And then the parking -- 37 parking spaces during the day.
11:03:47 Wanted permission after 5:00.
11:03:49 And we are not open every day.
11:03:51 We are a theater, performance.
11:03:54 >>FRANK REDDICK: [Off microphone.]
11:04:00 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Mr. Reddick, would you put your microphone
11:04:02 on?
11:04:02 I apologize.
11:04:03 >>FRANK REDDICK: I'm sorry.
11:04:05 I'm very familiar with Mr. Knight's property in the city
11:04:09 West Tampa, and when we first discussed this, you were
11:04:12 saying about all these different agreements that you might
11:04:14 have, come today here that you don't have all these
11:04:23 agreements, and I wouldn't put my faith in having a verbal
11:04:28 agreement with Mr. Knight.
11:04:34 So I am more uncomfortable supporting this now because there
11:04:42 are too many uncertainties about this whole arrangement.
11:04:46 I just want to say that and I won't be able to support this.
11:04:50 Mrs. Capin.
11:04:52 >>YVONNE CAPIN: Okay, here we go.
11:04:53 I like the fact that these dropped.
11:04:57 If you are paying Mr. Knight, that is a contract.
11:05:02 I'm sorry, in anywhere, any place, you are paying him, so
11:05:07 that you could use that lot to park.
11:05:10 That's a contract.
11:05:13 Now, that there's public parking.
11:05:16 This is beer and wine.
11:05:17 Mrs. Moreda, I want to ask you something.
11:05:20 Can this venue change automatically from a theater, or a
11:05:28 small venue?
11:05:30 >>GLORIA MOREDA: The uses they described on their site plan
11:05:33 is for place of assembly, theater, and specialty retail
11:05:36 sales.
11:05:38 That is the uses that identified on the site plan.
11:05:43 >>YVONNE CAPIN: Okay, thank you.
11:05:47 And I see bore and wine.
11:05:49 And my thought is maybe you are getting a hard time because
11:05:53 it's on Main Street.
11:05:55 But I do not -- I do not understand it at all.
11:05:59 I know your business.
11:06:00 I know what you are doing there.
11:06:04 What you have done with that building.
11:06:06 I know the building, as I said before.
11:06:09 My husband and I looked at it in 2006.
11:06:11 So I know what kind of work it took to get it to where it's
11:06:14 at.
11:06:16 We are looking at an area that is about to be developed.
11:06:26 And, you know, people here were here talking about the park.
11:06:32 And they kept referring to it as the west river bank.
11:06:37 It is the West Tampa river bank.
11:06:39 West Tampa.
11:06:39 West Tampa does not end at Howard Avenue.
11:06:44 But what you are trying to do here is an asset to this
11:06:49 neighborhood, absolutely.
11:06:51 I have seen it.
11:06:52 And I am trying -- I am wracking my head trying to see why
11:06:59 you are getting so much pushback.
11:07:02 >> I don't know.
11:07:02 Just so everybody is aware, this theater, he would want to
11:07:05 hold summer camps for the community which we do now.
11:07:07 We teach children performing.
11:07:10 We take -- most of the community to help clean up the street
11:07:15 in front of me, across the street, there's a park, I
11:07:19 employed them to clone the park over there, and anybody in
11:07:22 that community can come to any show we have, and we don't
11:07:26 charge them as long as we are not drinking, and they are
11:07:32 free to come at any time.
11:07:33 We always had that rule.
11:07:34 We do hire employees.
11:07:36 Everybody on the street and get them off the street.
11:07:39 And to maintain the building on the outside, never had an
11:07:47 issue with that building.
11:07:50 Most everybody on that street, I talked over the single
11:07:52 business owner, every neighborhood association is in support
11:07:54 of it.
11:07:55 There's not one person negative against it as you can see.
11:07:59 And I will tell you that I am meeting the parking waiver for
11:08:02 the change of use.
11:08:04 If I dough not get the parking waiver I will not have the
11:08:06 change of use, I will be closed.
11:08:08 That's it.
11:08:08 End of story.
11:08:10 And I'm really trying to do something there, and it's very
11:08:14 hard to make that happen.
11:08:16 I also have a home there just two streets over, and we are
11:08:19 building a new house.
11:08:21 And we have been able to get a lot of building -- now you
11:08:28 should see the values are going up.
11:08:30 350 you this for homes in old West Tampa, not subsidized by
11:08:35 the city or county or bank.
11:08:36 That's what real people are money because they see what we
11:08:40 are doing there.
11:08:40 Main Street is the only street that they can walk to for any
11:08:43 kind of business, coffee shops, not there, restaurant, not
11:08:47 there, a doctor, not there, pharmacy, not there.
11:08:49 There's nothing on the street, just gambling, drugs,
11:08:55 prostitution.
11:08:56 When I have a show there, I have the police department
11:08:57 volunteer come and take care of it and never had a problem
11:09:00 there.
11:09:01 After 10:00, we are done, we are closed, and that's it.
11:09:04 And that's long-term stay.
11:09:06 We are not going anywhere. We are going to be a nonprofit.
11:09:09 We are going to have donations from major corporations
11:09:13 helping educate the kids therein when we have classes during
11:09:15 the day.
11:09:16 The beer and wine is something very minimal.
11:09:18 It's not a club.
11:09:20 >>YVONNE CAPIN: I am going to stop you there.
11:09:21 We approve beer and wine for paint by number store.
11:09:25 >> Just what you approved a little bit ago.
11:09:29 >>YVONNE CAPIN: I mean seriously, I'm wracking my brain
11:09:32 trying to figure out what the push back is.
11:09:34 Maybe I don't have the in on what the pushback is, but
11:09:38 there's something here, because you do have a contract with
11:09:42 Mr. Marvin knight, and you are paying him for the parking,
11:09:45 and there is public parking.
11:09:47 I know it very well.
11:09:48 I was there.
11:09:49 And I know the issues that happen in that street.
11:09:51 I was there when the issues were happening.
11:09:53 So when I look at it -- and I'm not foreign to West Tampa.
11:09:59 I'm going to say it again.
11:10:01 My grandmother was born on Main Street in 1908.
11:10:05 So that area is very familiar.
11:10:09 And when they speak of it being a neglected for 20 years,
11:10:13 the whole area, all of West Tampa has been for many, many
11:10:18 years.
11:10:19 What you have done as a private citizen combing in is an
11:10:21 asset.
11:10:22 And to really bring it do I know is amazing to me.
11:10:24 But you are building a house there.
11:10:26 You are moving into the neighborhood.
11:10:27 >> I owned homes in the area.
11:10:32 And I'm also an investor.
11:10:34 When I started investing in that less an year ago, price per
11:10:39 square footage was $50.
11:10:41 I could buy a home for 30 or $40,000.
11:10:44 You cannot get in that neighborhood for less than $145 a
11:10:48 square foot now.
11:10:49 Now we have 30 new homes from another project that's in
11:10:53 there, apartment, old West Tampa flats are now on Howard and
11:10:57 Spruce.
11:10:58 You will see you approved that.
11:11:02 That's there.
11:11:02 So people are now moving to the neighborhood.
11:11:04 I talked to them.
11:11:05 I tried to get them in there.
11:11:07 I am on the board of West Tampa chamber.
11:11:09 I have the West Tampa chamber to support me.
11:11:13 They want this there.
11:11:15 So I don't understand the pushback here R either because I
11:11:17 am not asking for a lot.
11:11:19 It's only 24 parking spaces and the concern was that you
11:11:21 have brought up what if people build on it and then your
11:11:25 parking goes away?
11:11:26 Well, if they don't have parking how are you going to
11:11:29 approve them?
11:11:29 There's nowhere for them to build anything and then have no
11:11:32 parking.
11:11:34 >>YVONNE CAPIN: I just stated that.
11:11:35 In Tampa, the grid of Tampa, old West Tampa, Old Seminole
11:11:37 Heights, old Hyde Park, anywhere, if we do not give
11:11:42 variance, we cannot approve any commercial.
11:11:44 So I am done with this.
11:11:46 And I do support it.
11:11:49 And I did before.
11:11:50 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Mrs. Montelione.
11:11:51 >>LISA MONTELIONE: Thank you.
11:12:00 I'm looking at the aerial.
11:12:02 There is a parking lot immediately adjacent.
11:12:05 What is that?
11:12:12 >>GLORIA MOREDA: You are talking about -- this is the
11:12:14 subject property here.
11:12:14 >>LISA MONTELIONE: Go left.
11:12:22 >>GLORIA MOREDA: That area here?
11:12:23 >> The gentleman owns a bar next door.
11:12:26 He will not sign a lease for that property either.
11:12:28 We have used that parking lot before.
11:12:30 So he's been pretty open before, but lately, with this --
11:12:37 >>LISA MONTELIONE: Where is the public parking?
11:12:45 Move the aerial down a little bit.
11:12:46 We can't see.
11:12:50 We don't need to see the interstate.
11:12:52 >> Right there.
11:12:53 That's all public parking.
11:12:54 >>LISA MONTELIONE: So it's an easy walk.
11:12:58 In older cities -- we have, you know, that we have been to,
11:13:04 all of us have been to places, older cities, there's been
11:13:10 considerable amount of time in Pittsburgh, there's a lot of
11:13:14 these, and there's no parking.
11:13:16 There's public parking.
11:13:18 Surface public parking lots.
11:13:20 And in order for an area to redevelop, what we see here in
11:13:25 Tampa is the fact that they have to tear down a building in
11:13:30 order to build a parking lot.
11:13:36 Whether it's the right thing to do for our city to tear
11:13:39 buildings down and build parking lots, I don't think it's
11:13:44 the right thing to do.
11:13:45 In this neighborhood, with the older buildings that we have
11:13:48 there, some of them historic.
11:13:51 I don't want to lose building stock to parking lots.
11:13:55 And in this area, on-street parking is, not commonplace in a
11:14:04 lot of the City of Tampa, but there is on-street parking in
11:14:07 this neighborhood.
11:14:08 There's on-street parking in urban neighborhoods like
11:14:12 downtown and others.
11:14:14 And we need to do more of that.
11:14:16 On-street parking slows traffic down, it's better for
11:14:20 businesses to have on-street parking, people can park right
11:14:23 in front of the establishment.
11:14:25 And when you come in, you know, it's generally seen as a
11:14:36 good sign when the artists and painters show up, as has been
11:14:41 reiterated by my fellow council member, Yolie Capin, on many
11:14:47 occasions.
11:14:47 When the artists come in and painters show up, then, you
11:14:52 know, you start seeing a neighborhood change.
11:14:56 And I'm not promoting gentrification, but we need to have a
11:15:02 mix of individuals living in our neighborhoods in order for
11:15:05 people to learn about each other, and this is how it starts.
11:15:13 So I think that having your theater there is a good thing.
11:15:17 I think it's what the neighborhood needs.
11:15:21 And as the other West Tampa projects take off, then, you
11:15:27 know, the area is going to be, you know, changed.
11:15:31 If we don't allow for an establishment, places such as
11:15:38 yourself, a theater to come in, what would we allow?
11:15:44 I don't know.
11:15:47 If a retail score is going to locate in the space.
11:15:53 Right now we are not going to see improvement in the area.
11:15:56 So I am also in support of your application.
11:15:58 But I think you already knew that.
11:16:02 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Any other questions from council to the
11:16:04 petitioner?
11:16:06 Petitioner, is there anything else you would like to say
11:16:08 concerning your application?
11:16:09 >> Not at this time.
11:16:10 I just appreciate the opportunity and I'll close it.
11:16:17 >>MIKE SUAREZ: We appreciate it.
11:16:17 Any other comments or questions?
11:16:19 Mr. Cohen.
11:16:19 >>HARRY COHEN: I have found the councilwomen's comments to
11:16:29 be pretty persuasive on this.
11:16:32 And, you know, I voted against this because these parking
11:16:38 problems, we start do I know this road, and we end up with
11:16:42 neighborhoods that get completely overwhelmed.
11:16:47 But on the other hand it does sound like there are at least
11:16:50 some parking options between the public lot and some of
11:16:55 these others around it.
11:16:58 And I am going to go ahead and support it.
11:17:07 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Mr. Reddick and then Mr. Miranda.
11:17:08 >>FRANK REDDICK: You know, here is the thing that bothers
11:17:15 me about this whole project here.
11:17:24 You talk to the owner of the bar, he won't give you a lease
11:17:28 agreement to park on his property.
11:17:31 You talk to Mr. Knight who owns several properties in West
11:17:36 Tampa.
11:17:41 You say you are paying him but you don't have anything
11:17:43 written and you can't go to court with anything not written.
11:17:47 So not talking about you paying somebody and you don't have
11:17:50 a document to prove it.
11:17:51 >> But I am --
11:17:55 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Mr. Morris, let him ask the question or make
11:17:57 a comment.
11:17:58 Sir.
11:17:58 >>FRANK REDDICK: You stood here and talked about the
11:18:02 neighborhood association and all the people that are before
11:18:04 you.
11:18:05 You haven't provided one documentation to this council
11:18:07 saying they support you.
11:18:09 You have not had one person come in here and stand with you
11:18:12 and say they support you.
11:18:14 >> I had five people here last week.
11:18:23 >>FRANK REDDICK: Well, those people in West Tampa, none of
11:18:26 them are members of the Chamber of Commerce.
11:18:28 I don't need you going back and forth with me, all right?
11:18:31 You stand there.
11:18:32 You had your time to speak.
11:18:33 >> You asked me a question about --
11:18:36 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Mr. Morris, let me interrupt you for a
11:18:38 second.
11:18:38 I would prefer that you allow the member to speak and ask
11:18:40 the question or make a comment.
11:18:42 Then you will have your time.
11:18:44 It's too hard for us to keep the time for you to make sure
11:18:47 that you have that time.
11:18:48 So why don't you just wait.
11:18:50 >> Sure.
11:18:51 >>MIKE SUAREZ: And let Mr. Reddick make his comment or his
11:18:53 question and go from there.
11:18:56 Mr. Reddick.
11:18:57 >>FRANK REDDICK: The final thing I will say is those who
11:19:01 are asking that this be denied, you know, some of you don't
11:19:05 know what the plans are for West Tampa.
11:19:10 This is a major project for the city of West Tampa, and
11:19:13 uplift that whole community, and not only talking about CRA
11:19:16 development, but negotiations that going on that are going
11:19:22 to bring some businesses in there, and, you know, and I am
11:19:31 in discussion with these people about these projects.
11:19:33 But I will just say this to you.
11:19:40 Again, Main Street, and I look on Main Street now, and the
11:19:49 thing that we are talking about redeveloping Main Street
11:19:53 with different projects, and that theater is fine, but I'm
11:20:00 to the point now, we have enough beer and wine on Main
11:20:02 Street, and whether you like it or not, it's just an influx
11:20:12 of beer and wine in that area.
11:20:14 So I am just going to say to you, I am not comfortable with
11:20:17 the parking, and you don't have proof that these people are
11:20:22 supporting you, and therefore I am giving you an opportunity
11:20:33 since you can't prove anything to me today, therefore I will
11:20:35 continue to not support.
11:20:39 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Mr. Miranda.
11:20:40 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
11:20:41 Let me say this.
11:20:42 It's not about this particular one but all of them.
11:20:46 We have come um with these new things.
11:20:48 I have an accessory parking lot and I have this and I have
11:20:51 that.
11:20:51 The problem is that this government or any other government
11:20:57 cannot follow up on everything.
11:20:58 And once you start with these leases that some are valid,
11:21:03 some are not, because they have a breaking point because you
11:21:06 have a lease for two years doesn't mean you can't get out,
11:21:10 or for ten years doesn't mean you can't get out, or if you
11:21:12 have a city lot like the one that's there, has been a long
11:21:15 time, might grant that, but you can't just say I want to
11:21:19 have this based on what may happen ten years from now or
11:21:23 five days from now or two hours from now, that that lot will
11:21:26 not be available, but yet you have the zoning.
11:21:30 This has happened already in the SoHo district.
11:21:34 You live and you learn.
11:21:35 And you suffer the consequences.
11:21:38 So we have roared in the SoHo district.
11:21:42 I admit it.
11:21:44 So you learn from those things.
11:21:45 You don't walk away from it and close your eyes and say
11:21:48 we'll try another one.
11:21:49 There are no ventures left in life whereby something doesn't
11:21:52 work.
11:21:54 Adventures like this doesn't work, and you have to imitate
11:22:00 something.
11:22:01 And I am not talking about you, sir, I'm talking about the
11:22:04 whole concept of it.
11:22:05 It's a gimmick to get us to vote for it.
11:22:07 And I'm not falling for it.
11:22:09 That's all.
11:22:11 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Thank you.
11:22:12 Any other comments, Mr. Morris, before we Goreck to public
11:22:15 comment?
11:22:16 >> Yes, I do.
11:22:18 I believe the Macfarlane Park association, she said she sent
11:22:25 it yesterday.
11:22:26 You should have the association supporting my beer.
11:22:28 So if you didn't get that e-mail I will have her resend to
11:22:31 the her.
11:22:35 >>MIKE SUAREZ: We will check on that and have that put into
11:22:36 the record if that is true, sir.
11:22:38 >> The second comment I would like to make, Mr. Miranda, is
11:22:41 the difference between SoHo, and I believe Main Street, is
11:22:43 Main Street is wide enough where we have on-street parking
11:22:46 on both sides, so maybe in the future that could be
11:22:50 reconfigured to better parking spaces or metered parking in
11:22:54 the future where the city co-make a benefit from that which
11:22:58 SoHo does not have.
11:23:00 That would be a little it R different.
11:23:02 Plus, behind my building, green street, there's a lot of
11:23:07 empty land from where they were doing construction so there
11:23:09 is potential for maybe the city in the future to be buy land
11:23:12 and maybe put some parking back there which is directly on
11:23:15 the exit.
11:23:16 And that's what I am trying to purchase.
11:23:19 They are holding onto the land so tightly.
11:23:21 The other thing about leases, the reason why they weren't
11:23:24 going to lease is it they didn't want the liability because
11:23:26 of the neighborhood.
11:23:26 That's way was told by Mr. Knight.
11:23:34 And I apologize --
11:23:36 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Mr. Morris, it's okay.
11:23:37 We just want to make sure we get a clean record.
11:23:40 Mr. Miranda.
11:23:43 If I could go forward -- excuse me, before we go forward.
11:23:46 >>REBECCA KERT: Really quickly, council.
11:23:49 I know you all noticed but just for record purposes, we did
11:23:52 have public comment.
11:23:53 You probably want to reserve your final-final decision on
11:23:56 this until you hear all of the testimony.
11:23:58 Thank you.
11:24:00 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Thank you, Mrs. Kert.
11:24:01 Anyone in the public that would like to speak on item number
11:24:03 52.
11:24:04 Sir.
11:24:04 >> Yes, good afternoon.
11:24:06 My name is attorney Jamar Chapman. I'm with the black
11:24:12 chamber of commerce and here to speak, because I'm also
11:24:18 radio host for 88.5 WMNF, the urban cafe, Sunday morning.
11:24:24 We have had a couple of workers on the radio show a couple
11:24:28 of times and they have done quite a few extraordinary plays
11:24:31 within the last few months.
11:24:33 I have only been here a little time in Tampa.
11:24:35 I'm from Detroit, Michigan actually.
11:24:38 The venue is unlike any other I have seen in Tampa.
11:24:41 They bring Broadway plays to Tampa.
11:24:43 They are only open a handful of days a year and that area,
11:24:46 particularly Main Street, I guess -- I'm from Detroit.
11:24:51 But what I have seen is some of the areas, the high rates of
11:24:56 prostitution, crime, areas which definitely need to be
11:25:01 revitalized going forward.
11:25:03 And what Robert is trying to do in that area is absolutely
11:25:08 amazing things.
11:25:10 And they are trying to make these parking waivers to bring
11:25:17 in people like myself.
11:25:18 I'm 33 years old.
11:25:19 I'm single.
11:25:20 So the demographics of people who would be my age range, 25,
11:25:26 35, 45, and we would go see plays.
11:25:30 Unlike other areas in Tampa, and maybe it's me, but I
11:25:36 haven't seen so many strip clubs in a city in my life.
11:25:39 These places bring in, of course, crime, unruly behavior.
11:25:44 None of that is going on in this space, or anyone who is a
11:25:48 patron of the space.
11:25:48 That's why it's so important that they get this waiver.
11:25:51 And then on my behalf of the black Chamber of Commerce here
11:25:55 in Tampa, when you are looking at bringing in different
11:25:57 activities, or businesses tore neighborhoods, this is
11:26:02 something which is definitely has a positive effect on
11:26:05 African-American business.
11:26:06 I actually run two law firms here in Tampa.
11:26:08 And one of my I run on my own, actually.
11:26:13 I understand the importance of building businesses and
11:26:17 having relations with other people.
11:26:19 And like I said, I am also a radio host for the 88.5 and we
11:26:24 have a lot of people calling to the shop speaking about how
11:26:27 they have never seen anything like this in Tampa before.
11:26:30 The play, the venue, the opportunity.
11:26:33 That's why it's so important that the space is allowed the
11:26:36 parking waiver so they can move forward and keep doing
11:26:38 amazing things for the City of Tampa.
11:26:40 Thank you.
11:26:44 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Mr. Reddick, if I could, before you go
11:26:46 forward, let's try to clear out the rest of the members of
11:26:48 the public so that we can continue with this.
11:26:50 >>FRANK REDDICK: I want to make a comment.
11:26:57 He just made a comment that I want to respond to what he
11:27:02 said, and that is, first, let me tell you, I hope you are
11:27:10 able to produce a copy of one of your shows on WMNF because
11:27:16 I listen to the shows in the morning time coming, and I
11:27:23 haven't heard anyone call in talking about it.
11:27:26 I hope you got an audio that you can produce.
11:27:29 Two, give me the name -- or give me the number on the strip
11:27:35 club on Main Street.
11:27:39 How many on Main Street?
11:27:40 >> If I may, could I respond to both your questions first?
11:27:45 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Before we go forward.
11:27:47 Mr. Reddick, I appreciate what you are saying in terms of
11:27:49 his comments to us concerning West Tampa specifically.
11:27:53 And you have made your comment.
11:27:55 I believe you have completed your comment.
11:27:57 Mr. Reddick, if it's okay with you, I would like to go
11:27:59 forward with the rest of the public so that we can finish
11:28:02 this up.
11:28:02 Thank you, sir.
11:28:03 Next up, is there anyone else in the public that would like
11:28:06 to speak on item number 52?
11:28:09 Okay.
11:28:10 Petitioner, you have rebuttal.
11:28:13 Petitioner?
11:28:14 Mr. Morris.
11:28:15 You have rebuttal.
11:28:16 Would you like to take any rebuttal time?
11:28:18 Mrs. Marshall, how much time does he have?
11:28:20 Five minutes, sir.
11:28:21 >> I forgot to also mention with the education that we are
11:28:25 doing in the community, my goal there is to use the venue --
11:28:31 we allow other neighborhood people to use it for birthday
11:28:34 parties, graduation events, which we have people want to use
11:28:38 that.
11:28:38 We think can't until we get this waiver.
11:28:42 And use this for other than the theater.
11:28:44 We won't be selling beer and wine to them.
11:28:46 The space is available to the community because there's not
11:28:48 really another community space for people in that
11:28:50 neighborhood to use.
11:28:51 And when you were referencing Main Street strip clubs, yes,
11:28:54 sir, there's no strip clubs on Main Street but there is
11:28:57 plenty of prostitutes ton that street, and also a lot of
11:29:01 drug dealing.
11:29:02 When we have a show, Tampa police come out, that street is
11:29:05 the cleanest street you have ever seen when we have a show.
11:29:08 And we have never had an issue with any one of the, I guess,
11:29:12 neighborhood people on the street when we have the shows.
11:29:15 And everybody has been very generous.
11:29:17 So that's all I have to say unless anybody has any
11:29:25 questions.
11:29:25 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Thank you, sir.
11:29:26 Mrs. Montelione, do you have a comment or question?
11:29:29 >>LISA MONTELIONE: I have a comment.
11:29:31 I heard two council members basically try to challenge you
11:29:36 and call you a liar, which is why I understand why you are
11:29:42 upset.
11:29:43 And because if I was standing in your shoes, which I did in
11:29:47 a past life, I did stand there, I would be very upset.
11:29:55 This is not a gimmick to get the alcoholic beverage.
11:30:00 I don't think you would have gone to the length that you
11:30:02 have gone to have the theater there on a whim, or put the
11:30:12 investment that you have put into this building to fix it up
11:30:15 to get to the that point where you could actually have
11:30:17 people inside the space.
11:30:20 So I think that was, you know, just something that I had to
11:30:30 get out in the open, because I don't want to see you stand
11:30:36 there and have to defend yourself the way you have had to
11:30:39 defend yourself.
11:30:40 And Mrs. Capin said before, the pushback is enormous.
11:30:44 And again, I'm not sure why, because I think it's a noble
11:30:49 thing that you are doing.
11:30:50 I think that when you said you are an attorney and you are
11:30:57 single -- (Laughter)
11:30:59 We might have people calling in your radio show now that
11:31:05 they know these things.
11:31:08 (Laughter).
11:31:13 >>MIKE SUAREZ: That's a whole other issue.
11:31:14 Let's go on.
11:31:17 (Laughter).
11:31:19 >>LISA MONTELIONE: But, you know, you are right.
11:31:20 You are the demographic we want to see.
11:31:23 And I'm glad you moved here from Detroit.
11:31:25 And to make that statement that our city, as many people
11:31:31 have of that city, that have not been to areas where it's a
11:31:40 lot worse, and I am not going to name off cities because I
11:31:43 don't want anybody to get mad at me.
11:31:52 Or different urban areas up north.
11:31:54 So thank you for your comments.
11:31:57 You know, we need to have the step in the right direction,
11:32:04 not only is the on-street parking available to you, but this
11:32:08 is a very, as you pointed out, wide corridor, mass transit,
11:32:15 bus routes.
11:32:16 I mean, there are ways of getting around other than using a
11:32:19 car and bringing in parking lots.
11:32:24 I'm sure some of the folks who come to your establishment
11:32:26 don't own cars.
11:32:29 So either they are getting a ride with somebody else or they
11:32:31 are walking to your establishment, especially for some of
11:32:34 the community activities that you have there, for example.
11:32:40 They are taking the bus.
11:32:41 Excuse me, my allergies are acting up.
11:32:44 They are taking the bus.
11:32:45 They are walking.
11:32:47 Sometimes not even out of choice, it's because they have to.
11:32:53 So again, I am for it.
11:32:56 I did want to put those comments out there.
11:32:58 And I'm sorry that you have had to defend yourself in the
11:33:02 way that you have.
11:33:03 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Mr. Miranda.
11:33:03 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
11:33:06 You know, I have a little wax in my ear but I don't have any
11:33:09 wax in my tongue.
11:33:10 I never called this man a liar.
11:33:11 And everything I said earlier, this is not about his
11:33:16 application, this is about the general terms of what we have
11:33:17 been used to.
11:33:19 And what we have been told, and what's happened after we
11:33:21 have been told.
11:33:22 And I don't want to have the TV play it back, and I'll buy
11:33:26 anybody a video and send to the them to see what I said.
11:33:29 If I have to call somebody a Loire, I say it rate to their
11:33:32 face.
11:33:33 I ain't afraid of size, color, creed or whatever it is.
11:33:36 Because I can still outrun them.
11:33:39 (Laughter)
11:33:40 What I am trying to say is that -- pardon me?
11:33:44 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Go ahead, Mr. Miranda.
11:33:45 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: What I am saying is all fact.
11:33:49 There is no strip club that I know of on Main Street.
11:33:54 Everything that I heard from other colleagues on this
11:33:56 council say, I have to say that I agree were everything that
11:34:00 everyone said.
11:34:01 That doesn't mean that I can't vote my way.
11:34:04 I don't try to sway in a one's position I.don't challenge
11:34:08 anyone on this council.
11:34:10 I just vote for what I think is right for the general
11:34:13 public.
11:34:13 End of story, Mr. Chairman.
11:34:15 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Mrs. Capin.
11:34:16 >>YVONNE CAPIN: Yes, I do believe the gentleman that spoke,
11:34:18 the attorney, when he said that he was surprised at how many
11:34:22 strip clubs were in Tampa.
11:34:24 In general.
11:34:25 He didn't say Main Street.
11:34:27 Let me tell you, I owned a business.
11:34:29 And I got that comment from people that came from out of
11:34:31 town all the time.
11:34:33 They were amazed.
11:34:35 That was the first thing.
11:34:36 Especially before, the Causeway Boulevard was cleaned up.
11:34:42 Right when you got off the airport, there were more, many,
11:34:47 many.
11:34:47 So, yes, that is a comment that is made.
11:34:50 I was in business for 25 years, and yet I did get that from
11:34:54 people that came from out of town.
11:34:57 They were surprised.
11:34:58 So, yeah, and I think his statement was in general, and
11:35:02 that's how I took it.
11:35:03 I'm done.
11:35:05 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Mr. Reddick.
11:35:05 >>FRANK REDDICK: And the same people who come from out of
11:35:08 town and tell you that are the ones who are making the strip
11:35:11 club owners rich because they want to go in there.
11:35:14 The problem is -- and I don't have to -- I am going to be
11:35:17 like my colleague.
11:35:18 If I want to call somebody a liar, I would do it.
11:35:22 I don't need nobody to pretend.
11:35:26 For a colleague to say you have two councilmen calling
11:35:29 somebody a liar, one thing people to know in five and a half
11:35:35 years, I will say what I got to say.
11:35:37 And if I have to call you a liar, yes, I am going to call
11:35:40 you a liar.
11:35:41 And from the stuff I heard today, yes, I think it's a bunch
11:35:46 of garbage.
11:35:47 And I think who made those comments is a bunch of garbage.
11:35:52 So I'm going to stand by my point.
11:35:55 And whether you like it or not, I don't care.
11:35:59 And I am ready to vote.
11:36:02 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Mrs. Capin.
11:36:07 >>YVONNE CAPIN: Cap yeah, yeah, yeah.
11:36:09 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Sir, tough last word.
11:36:11 Is there anything to say NFC rebuttal?
11:36:13 >> Yes.
11:36:13 Two things I forgot.
11:36:14 >> The park on the corner of Main Street and Howard.
11:36:19 We work together.
11:36:20 We got that park revitalized.
11:36:22 That was part of my doing with him.
11:36:27 We were able to clean up that park and also directly across
11:36:29 the street are from me is a park that's owned by Joe Redner
11:36:33 who -- sorry, owned a few clubs -- worked with him and going
11:36:40 to get the park across did street lit finally.
11:36:43 So that park will have lighting.
11:36:46 We are going to give them some money.
11:36:47 They clean the park for me every day when we have a show.
11:36:51 We also have a Saturday and Sunday market in the
11:36:53 neighborhood where people from the neighborhood actually
11:36:55 sell their stuff.
11:36:55 They have a few people that sell stuff in the neighborhood
11:36:59 in different parks.
11:37:00 And we have had about 40 vendors that come in the park area
11:37:03 and the community, so that's another thing we are doing in
11:37:06 the community that we invite everybody to do.
11:37:09 And that's been four months now.
11:37:10 It's been very successful.
11:37:12 And nobody has been detracted.
11:37:14 So that is also a great thing.
11:37:16 And the Tampa police were voluntarily come and sit there if
11:37:19 they don't have any major issues going on, in every park and
11:37:23 just make sure there's no issues and we never had an issue
11:37:25 with that as well and that has been a very successful thing.
11:37:28 So we do involve the community.
11:37:30 We are doing more than just plays and we do community events
11:37:34 and let the community come in and utilize the space.
11:37:37 That's the last thing I will say.
11:37:39 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Thank you.
11:37:40 Okay.
11:37:40 Is there any other comments or questions from council?
11:37:42 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: Move to close.
11:37:45 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Motion by Mr. Miranda of the I have a second
11:37:46 from Mr. Maniscalco.
11:37:48 All in favor of that motion?
11:37:50 Any opposed?
11:37:51 Mrs. Capin, will you take number 52, please?
11:37:54 The substitute ordinance.
11:37:57 >>YVONNE CAPIN: Yes.
11:37:57 With pleasure.
11:37:58 Substitute ordinance being presented for first reading
11:38:00 consideration, an ordinance approving a special use permit
11:38:03 S-2 for alcoholic beverage sales, small venue on premises
11:38:07 consumption only, and making lawful the sale of beer and
11:38:11 wine at or from that certain lot, plot or tract of land
11:38:15 located at 2106 west Main Street, Tampa, Florida as more
11:38:19 particularly described in section 2, that all ordinances or
11:38:23 parts of ordinances in conflict are repealed, providing an
11:38:25 effective date.
11:38:26 >> Second.
11:38:28 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Motion from Mrs. Capin.
11:38:30 I have a second from Mrs. Montelione.
11:38:31 All in favor of that motion please indicate by saying aye.
11:38:34 All opposed?
11:38:37 >>THE CLERK: Miranda, Reddick and Suarez voting no.
11:38:40 Second reading and adoption will be held ...
11:38:51 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Thank you.
11:38:52 We are now on to item number 54.
11:38:54 Staff.
11:38:54 >>BARBARA LYNCH: Land Development Coordination.
11:39:04 , VAC 16-013, a request by Steven Anthony Menéndez.
11:39:12 I have a map showing the location.
11:39:14 The petitioner owns the property in red.
11:39:16 And the alley is shown in yellow and lies south of Chelsea,
11:39:20 north of Alva between Chelsea and west of Lynn Avenue.
11:39:29 The first was the alleyway lying east of Clearfield Avenue.
11:39:34 And then I have the wrong street name had on here but it's
11:39:38 the alleyway running west of Lynn Avenue.
11:39:45 This is the petitioner's property.
11:39:52 This is abutting on the other side of the alley.
11:39:55 This is another abutting owner on the other side from clear
11:39:59 field.
11:40:00 Again on the other side of the alley from Clearfield.
11:40:03 Staff has no objection to this Q.there are some easements
11:40:06 that are necessary for TECO and frontier, which is formerly
11:40:11 Verizon.
11:40:13 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Thank you.
11:40:15 Petitioner?
11:40:15 >> Steve Menéndez.
11:40:25 I respectfully request vacating the alleyway and hope for
11:40:28 your yes vote.
11:40:30 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Any questions or comments from council on
11:40:31 this at this time?
11:40:33 Is there anyone in the public who would like to speak on
11:40:35 item number 54, VAC 16-013?
11:40:39 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: Move to close.
11:40:41 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Motion by Mr. Miranda.
11:40:42 Second by Mr. Cohen.
11:40:43 All in favor?
11:40:44 Any opposed?
11:40:46 Mr. Cohen, will you take item number 54, please.
11:40:48 >>HARRY COHEN: Move an ordinance being presented for first
11:40:52 reading consideration, an ordinance vacating, closing,
11:40:54 discontinuing, abandoning that certain alleyway lying east
11:40:59 of clear field Avenue, west of Lynn Avenue, north of Alva
11:41:03 street, south of Chelsea street in Chelsea, a subdivision in
11:41:07 the City of Tampa, Hillsborough County Florida the same
11:41:09 being more fully described in section 1 hereof subject to
11:41:12 certain easement reservations, covenants, conditions and
11:41:15 restrictions more particularly set forth herein providing an
11:41:17 effective date.
11:41:17 >> Second.
11:41:23 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Second by Mr. Miranda.
11:41:24 All in favor?
11:41:25 Any opposed?
11:41:26 >>THE CLERK: Motion carried with Reddick and Capin being
11:41:29 absent.
11:41:30 Second reading and adoption will be on June 2nd, 2016,
11:41:35 at 9:30 a.m.
11:41:39 >>MIKE SUAREZ: We have items 55 through 57 which are review
11:41:42 hearings.
11:41:42 I would ask that we should probably go to items 58, 59, 60
11:41:50 next.
11:41:53 But I would like to ask for a motion to remove items from
11:41:56 the consent agenda item 69.
11:41:58 We think did get a memo asking that be moved to another
11:42:04 date.
11:42:05 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: So moved.
11:42:06 What date?
11:42:07 >>MIKE SUAREZ: I believe continuation to a future date.
11:42:11 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: Move to a future date.
11:42:15 >> Second.
11:42:16 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Motion by Mr. Miranda.
11:42:17 Second by Mr. Cohen.
11:42:18 All in favor of that motion please indicate by saying aye.
11:42:20 Any opposed?
11:42:21 All right.
11:42:21 Item number 58.
11:42:23 Under staff reports.
11:42:28 We have staff on item number 58, 59 and 60.
11:42:33 Did we go too quickly?
11:42:43 Mr. McDonaugh, I may have to hold this to after lunch
11:43:16 primarily because Mrs. Capin is not here and we want to make
11:43:19 sure we have a full council before we move forward.
11:43:21 I apologize for bringing you up here.
11:43:24 I apologize again.
11:43:26 We will probably be breaking for lunch at noon.
11:43:28 So we will try to get -- let's try to get numbers 61, 62, of
11:43:37 3 on through, I believe, 66, and maybe 67 also.
11:43:44 So council members, I apologize for that.
11:43:46 I forgot that Mrs. Capin was not going to be able to make it
11:43:51 till after lunch.
11:43:52 If I could ask for a motion on item number 61.
11:43:55 >>LISA MONTELIONE: Move 61 for approval.
11:43:59 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: Second.
11:44:01 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Moved by Mrs. Montelione.
11:44:02 Second by Mr. Miranda.
11:44:03 All in favor?
11:44:05 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: Move 62.
11:44:06 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: Second.
11:44:10 >>MIKE SUAREZ: All in favor of that motion indicate by
11:44:11 saying aye.
11:44:12 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: Move 63.
11:44:14 >>LISA MONTELIONE: Second.
11:44:16 >>MIKE SUAREZ: A second from Mrs. Montelione.
11:44:18 All in favor of that motion?
11:44:20 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: Move 64.
11:44:24 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Motion by Mr. Miranda.
11:44:25 Second by Mr. Maniscalco.
11:44:27 All in favor?
11:44:30 Anyone that would like to take 65, 66?
11:44:37 Miranda moved.
11:44:38 >>GUIDO MANISCALCO: Second.
11:44:39 >>MIKE SUAREZ: All in favor?
11:44:41 And 66.
11:44:43 Motion by Mr. Maniscalco.
11:44:44 Second by Mr. Cohen.
11:44:45 All in favor of that motion?
11:44:47 Okay.
11:44:50 I apologize.
11:44:51 I do not see Mrs. Little here.
11:44:54 She is?
11:44:56 I apologize.
11:44:57 We will go to number 67 first.
11:44:58 >>MARTIN SHELBY: If you could go back to number 69.
11:45:01 Did you have a date set for that so it can be put on the
11:45:04 agenda?
11:45:05 >>MIKE SUAREZ: No.
11:45:13 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Just removed from the agenda at this point.
11:45:16 >>MARTIN SHELBY: And not continued?
11:45:18 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: To a future date.
11:45:20 Have administration bring it back.
11:45:21 >>MARTIN SHELBY: That will be fine.
11:45:26 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Number 67.
11:45:29 This will be the budget presentation.
11:45:40 >>LISA MONTELIONE: Right.
11:45:42 She knows that.
11:45:43 I don't think the people in the back know that.
11:45:46 >>MIKE SUAREZ: I wanted to make sure.
11:46:09 >>SONYA LITTLE: Revenue and finance.
11:46:13 Thank you for the opportunity to come before you to provide
11:46:15 you with the midyear review for our fiscal year 2016.
11:46:22 As you will recall, September of last year, we actually
11:46:26 adopted the fiscal year 2016 budget.
11:46:32 And the purpose of this midyear review is to give you a
11:46:35 snapshot of where we are, and also provide you with updates
11:46:40 on where we are projecting to end our fiscal year 2016 based
11:46:44 on the actual performance that we have been able to report
11:46:48 in the way of revenues received and expenditures paid.
11:46:56 And in doing that, we will give you an overview of our major
11:46:59 general fund revenues as well as our utility services tax
11:47:04 fund, and an overview of the performance for our enterprise
11:47:09 funds including parking, solid waste, wastewater, and water.
11:47:16 To start out, as we typically do with a midyear review, and
11:47:21 talking about our projections for our budget, we would like
11:47:24 to give you an overview of the economy focusing both on the
11:47:30 national Florida, State of Florida, and the Tampa Bay MSA
11:47:36 area, starting out with one of our major economic
11:47:39 indicators, the gross domestic product.
11:47:42 For 2016 bringing your attention to that year in particular,
11:47:48 where Florida -- the gross domestic product for Florida is
11:47:53 expected to come in at 3.3% and trending downward slightly
11:47:58 for 2017 and 18, but still staying above that trend for the
11:48:03 national level.
11:48:09 Job growth, on the other hand, for 2016 -- first let me go
11:48:15 back on, all this economic data that we are providing is
11:48:22 provided by the university of central Florida college of
11:48:26 business.
11:48:27 The institute for economic competitive, a very reliable
11:48:31 source for economic data.
11:48:33 And back to this slide for job growth, the Tampa Bay area is
11:48:40 expected for 2016 an increase in our job growth of 3.1% over
11:48:44 the prior year, still presented trending above that of
11:48:48 Florida and the national rate, with Florida at 2.8% and 1.6%
11:48:55 at the national level.
11:48:57 You can see tapering off but the good news is that job
11:49:02 growth is still expected to increase year over year through
11:49:06 2018.
11:49:09 Unemployment downward trend.
11:49:12 Very apparent since 2014, the downward trend in all areas,
11:49:17 the Tampa Bay MSA Florida and the national trend, with
11:49:21 Florida for 2016 estimated to be at 5%, correspondingly, the
11:49:28 national unemployed rate of 4.9% and the Tampa MSA coming in
11:49:34 at 4.7%.
11:49:36 For Tampa, the blue line at the very bottom, 2016-17 and 18,
11:49:43 is projected to remain nearly flat at 4.7 to 4.6%.
11:49:50 New housing starts a very important indicator for us.
11:50:02 2016 we saw a tremendous spike with Tampa MSA being at 25%
11:50:06 over the prior year in new housing starts.
11:50:10 We think that there will be some slowing according to the
11:50:15 economic competitiveness committee.
11:50:18 Some slowing for 2016, but still a very healthy 10% over the
11:50:22 prior year.
11:50:24 And then trending still somewhat with a blip in 2017 for the
11:50:32 Tampa Bay MSA at 18.1%, and then ending out forecast for
11:50:39 2018 new housing start for the Tampa MSA of 7.2% compared to
11:50:44 Florida.
11:50:45 At 8.6%.
11:50:50 Personal income in 2016 at 4.5% for the Tampa Bay MSA,
11:50:58 Florida at 4.2, and the national trend of 3.8% for the
11:51:04 personal income, and again pointing out in all those areas
11:51:08 specific to -- specifically the Tampa Bay area increasing as
11:51:15 far as personal income is concerned through 2018.
11:51:20 We frequently talk about our projections for population.
11:51:28 Slow and steady growth for both Florida and the Tampa Bay
11:51:31 MSA.
11:51:36 And then just to give abroad overview, we always like to
11:51:40 refer to public statements issued by the federal reserve
11:51:45 market committee which held its meeting this past April
11:51:47 26-27 and released their statement on the 27th, and just
11:51:52 to briefly point out, highlights of their commentary,
11:52:00 starting out with economic activity will expand at a
11:52:03 moderate pace and labor market indicators will continue to
11:52:08 strengthen, some commentary that we have been hearing for
11:52:11 some time now, so again, back to slow and steady.
11:52:16 Inflation is expected to remain look in the near term and
11:52:19 partly because of earlier declines of energy prices, but to
11:52:23 rise up to 2% over the medium term.
11:52:27 Right now we are ranging anywhere between 1 and 1.1% of
11:52:33 further inflationary rates are concerned.
11:52:37 And then finally, economic conditions will evolve in a
11:52:40 manner that will warrant only gradually increases in federal
11:52:44 funds rate.
11:52:46 If you will recall, last December, the rate was raised from
11:52:52 25 to 50, and at that time it was anticipated that there may
11:52:56 be as many as four additional increases, but everyone has
11:53:00 backed off of that expectation, so we are no longer
11:53:04 expecting that.
11:53:06 There will be so many increases within a short period of
11:53:08 time.
11:53:15 So before we get into our judgments and projections for
11:53:18 revenue and expenditures -- expenditures, we will give you
11:53:21 an update of our FY 16 budget.
11:53:26 You will recall council adopted $3850 million last year for
11:53:30 the FY 2016 fiscal year.
11:53:35 Comprised of primarily general fund and enterprise funds
11:53:39 making up over 80% of that total city-wide budget.
11:53:45 With general funds specifically 353.6 million.
11:53:51 >>HARRY COHEN: Can you go back through that again?
11:53:56 The 4.6 million reserve, what is that?
11:53:59 >>SONYA LITTLE: That is actually funds that are anticipated
11:54:02 to be used for general fund purposes that had not been
11:54:06 applied at the time that the budget was created.
11:54:11 When we are talking about our fund balance, our 24%, it's a
11:54:15 component of that 24% that in cases of emergency would be
11:54:19 the first place we would go.
11:54:21 >>HARRY COHEN: Well, I guess I am just not clear.
11:54:24 Are you saying that we are taking $4.6 million out of the
11:54:28 reserve that we didn't anticipate?
11:54:31 >>SONYA LITTLE: No, no.
11:54:32 >>HARRY COHEN: You are saying we are putting 4.6 back into
11:54:35 it?
11:54:36 >>SONYA LITTLE: No, sir.
11:54:36 When bee balanced the budget it's already in reserve but
11:54:39 that 4.6 million has not been restricted and can be used in
11:54:43 cases of emergency for operational purposes.
11:54:50 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Mr. Miranda.
11:54:50 >>HARRY COHEN: Okay, I got it.
11:54:54 I wanted to be clear about what it is.
11:54:56 Thank you.
11:54:56 >> CHARLIE MIRANDA: [Off microphone.]
11:55:03 >>HARRY COHEN: We wanted to remain.
11:55:08 >> So property tax revenues giving you a history dating back
11:55:11 to 2012 where we were at 119.4 million and then trending
11:55:18 upwards.
11:55:19 But don't have the slides this time but you will recall the
11:55:23 blue and red slide that showed how much we have lost since
11:55:27 2008 in the way of our property tax revenues calculated,
11:55:32 over 250 million.
11:55:34 So we have lost a lot of ground.
11:55:37 So property taxes are revenues are increasing.
11:55:42 I guess it's kind of misleading because we are all excited
11:55:47 about all the cranes that we see, all the ribbon cuttings
11:55:51 and so forth, but just keeping in mind how much ground we
11:55:54 lost since 2008, as well as we have restrictions that the
11:56:02 revenues that come to the city including save our homes,
11:56:04 which puts a cap on the amount of revenues that can be
11:56:10 received, even though the assessed value is going up.
11:56:13 So all of those factors involved, we are recovering, but it
11:56:20 may be misleading to a lot of folks that would expect us to
11:56:24 be recovering much quicker than we really are.
11:56:27 Society that is correct said for the FY 16 budget, we were
11:56:30 projecting property tax revenue, receipts of 143 million.
11:56:38 We bumped up that slightly because we have gotten past
11:56:42 April, and what we believe is happening the S that fewer
11:56:46 people took advantage of the discount rates.
11:56:48 So they ended up paying more than what we had projected.
11:56:52 So we increased our property tax revenue receipts for FY
11:56:56 2016 projections by $900,000.
11:57:01 And as we go through this, you will see the ups and do I
11:57:03 knows.
11:57:04 The blue lines for FY 16 are the actual budget amount.
11:57:10 You will either see a red or green dot that will tell you
11:57:14 how much we are adjusting based on our actual performance,
11:57:18 what be we recorded in the way of revenues and expenditures
11:57:21 through March of 2016, looking at the economic indicators
11:57:25 that we have talked about, talking to the City of Tampa's
11:57:29 economic development department to actually engage whether
11:57:34 or not we should adjust our projections for the end of FY
11:57:38 16.
11:57:38 And this is really important to us at this point simply
11:57:41 because we want to make sure that we manage ourselves and
11:57:45 our finances, actively manage throughout the end of the
11:57:48 fiscal year.
11:57:49 We don't want any major surprises when we get to the end of
11:57:52 the fiscal year.
11:57:53 So electric franchise fee we adjusted downward for the FY 16
11:58:00 projections.
11:58:05 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Excuse me.
11:58:06 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: If it's downward that means the
11:58:09 projection was either incorrect, because they are all
11:58:12 assumptions.
11:58:13 Always assumptions.
11:58:14 Or that the 2 billion that we had in investments are not
11:58:18 completely looked up yet to electricity.
11:58:20 >>SONYA LITTLE: This particular one, Councilman, is largely
11:58:23 related to the actual sales for electric.
11:58:30 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: That's what I am saying.
11:58:32 >>SONYA LITTLE: And weather is really impactful on the
11:58:35 results of these projections.
11:58:37 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: Got it.
11:58:38 Thank you.
11:58:38 >>SONYA LITTLE: When we have good weather our revenues go
11:58:41 down because folks are not using electric.
11:58:44 So either warm or cool their houses when they normally
11:58:48 would.
11:58:56 Half cent sales tax, we are reading in the paper about
11:58:58 increases in our half cent sales tax because sales are going
11:59:02 up.
11:59:02 So based on our actual receipts through March of 2016, we
11:59:06 have adjusted upward or half cent sales tax projection.
11:59:13 This slide is really a recap of the graph that we went
11:59:18 through for general fund revenues.
11:59:20 And it provides the actual dollar amount based on the budget
11:59:24 and the resulting projections where we feel comfortable
11:59:28 based on whatever we know today projecting out to the end of
11:59:31 FY 2016.
11:59:33 And based on the ups and downs of all of those line items,
11:59:38 when you sum them up you will go to the bomb only line, the
11:59:42 total revenues.
11:59:43 We were over a year ago at $352 million, 351.9.
11:59:51 Now with what we know today and the data points that we are
11:59:53 using for our projection, we feel that we are at 352.8 which
11:59:58 is a difference -- an increase of about 800,000.
12:00:04 So we talked about some of the increases, and this is the
12:00:10 area that we are always watching very closely, because of
12:00:14 two things.
12:00:16 The electric utility services tax much like the franchise
12:00:20 fee are very much tied to the weather that we experience,
12:00:26 the communications services tax revenues, which you know are
12:00:29 tied to improvements in technology.
12:00:31 So based on our data points, over a year ago when we came up
12:00:37 with actually well more than a year ago when we came up with
12:00:40 the FY 16 budget, we felt comfortable where we are.
12:00:44 In and out that we have more data points, we have adjusted
12:00:46 downward on those two line items.
12:00:50 And again, I will point you to the same type of summary
12:00:54 table for the utility services tax revenues that we talked
12:00:58 about for general fund where you can see by line item the
12:01:00 ups and downs for all of those revenues that come under the
12:01:05 utility services tax revenue fund.
12:01:08 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Mrs. Little, before you go on we have a
12:01:10 motion to extend time.
12:01:11 >>HARRY COHEN: So moved for 15 minutes to 12:15.
12:01:15 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Go ahead. Motion by Mr. Cohen.
12:01:17 Second by Mr. Miranda.
12:01:18 All in favor of that motion?
12:01:20 Any opposed?
12:01:21 Continue.
12:01:21 >>SONYA LITTLE: Thank you.
12:01:24 So in this case, because of the trends, the additional
12:01:30 downward trends that we are seeing for utility services, tax
12:01:33 revenues, we adjusted downward over $3 million of
12:01:37 projections when you sum them all up so that we are now
12:01:42 looking to make sure that we manage the impact of those
12:01:46 declines for the projections through FY 16.
12:01:50 And so if we talk about now the expenditure slide, I will
12:01:56 also give you a summary of what that means when you sum it
12:01:58 all up between general fund and utility tax revenues and
12:02:02 expenditures.
12:02:03 First we'll go through the expenditure side now that we
12:02:06 focused on the revenue side.
12:02:07 So there are two slides.
12:02:10 Looking at the general fund expenditures, personnel costs
12:02:13 being our largest expenditure, for the general fund,
12:02:17 obviously, we have adjusted upwards over a million dollars
12:02:22 based on our payroll that we know to be factual, through
12:02:29 March 31st of 2016.
12:02:33 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Go ahead.
12:02:34 >>HARRY COHEN: Is the increase there, is that health care
12:02:38 costs?
12:02:38 What --
12:02:40 >>SONYA LITTLE: It's a combination, yes, primarily health
12:02:43 care costs.
12:02:44 And that is something that we are also reviewing and looking
12:02:47 at very closely so that we can make sure that we are focused
12:02:52 on managing our personnel costs.
12:02:56 So again using the actual data through March 31st is
12:03:00 really important to us so that we can start to make certain
12:03:04 that we are living within our means.
12:03:05 And, you know, we talk about having lost all of that money,
12:03:09 for example, for $250 million on our property tax revenues.
12:03:13 Yes, we are losing a lot.
12:03:16 It is an absolute challenge.
12:03:19 Budget cycle to budget cycle to balance our budget still
12:03:23 because of all those factors that we are talking about.
12:03:25 But one of the things that we really, really focus on is
12:03:31 living within our means.
12:03:33 So we are still living within our means, and we believe
12:03:37 providing the highest possible service that we can to our
12:03:41 residents.
12:03:43 Butt again all of these factors are extremely important, and
12:03:47 it does not make it easy by any means as we move forward.
12:03:55 Our general employees pension fund funded at 99.4%, we took
12:04:05 a look at those payroll figures again.
12:04:07 You know, we have the two funds.
12:04:09 We have general employees and also fire and police which is
12:04:13 on slide 20.
12:04:14 So when you look at the two of them based on the personnel
12:04:18 and costs associated with either general employees or fire
12:04:21 and police, we have adjusted accordingly.
12:04:26 But improvement as far as the decline in our expenditure
12:04:30 fund, we are now forecasting increase on the fire and police
12:04:33 side.
12:04:43 Again, where we have the most control is managing on our
12:04:47 general fund expenditures which this is demonstrating, so we
12:04:52 have had some challenges in some of the revenue areas.
12:04:55 We are managing our costs, so our projection when all is
12:04:59 said and done are totaling, we are passed a decrease of
12:05:05 about 270,000 in our projection for our general fund
12:05:09 expenditures.
12:05:12 The same on our utility service taxes.
12:05:16 That bottom line in blue going from 72.9 to 70.1, or just
12:05:22 under $3 million in improvement on the expenditure side.
12:05:27 So what does it all mean? If you take all of those slides
12:05:32 and summary tables that we just went through and you go to
12:05:35 page 23, slide 23, and taking a look at our total revenues
12:05:42 of general fund utility services tax and our expenditures,
12:05:49 if I can ask that slide 23 be brought up, please.
12:05:54 >>MIKE SUAREZ: It's up on ours.
12:05:55 >>SONYA LITTLE: Okay.
12:06:00 FY 2016 for the budget.
12:06:02 After receiving our revenue, paying all of our expenditures,
12:06:07 keeping the lights on, keeping our folks paid and providing
12:06:11 our services basically is what we are talking about, we had
12:06:13 anticipated about 16 months ago that we would have surplus
12:06:21 of about $725,000 to go back into our fund balance, but now
12:06:27 with all the ups and downs that you saw in those prior
12:06:30 slides, and the adjustments in both the revenues and
12:06:34 expenditure side, our projection based on our mid-year data
12:06:37 is that it will be closer in the neighborhood of $300,000
12:06:42 back into the fund balance, into our reserves.
12:06:47 Again, the ultimate goal is that we maintain our fiscal
12:06:51 sustainability, meaning that the revenues coming in are
12:06:54 sufficient enough to pay the expenditures.
12:06:59 We are moving forward very conservatively with our
12:07:01 projections so that we can a sure that we maintain the
12:07:06 fiscal sustainability.
12:07:14 Now, if we can focus on our enterprise fund.
12:07:24 Parking.
12:07:28 Good news.
12:07:28 It's actually a pleasure for the first time, I think, to
12:07:32 come with good news as far as performance of our parking
12:07:36 system.
12:07:36 We all know that when we are out trying -- it's a hot topic
12:07:40 now finding parking.
12:07:41 But war that means is that revenue projections, we have been
12:07:44 able to increase them significantly than what we anticipated
12:07:48 12 to 14 months ago.
12:07:50 So if I can direct your attention to the FY 16 budget column
12:07:54 where we saw revenues at 14.9.
12:07:58 >>MIKE SUAREZ: If I could interrupt you for a second.
12:08:00 Mrs. Montelione.
12:08:01 >>LISA MONTELIONE: You may be about to cover this, but are
12:08:05 we anticipating raising our parking rates at any time soon?
12:08:09 >>SONYA LITTLE: It's still under consideration.
12:08:11 >>LISA MONTELIONE: It's been under consideration for five
12:08:13 years.
12:08:13 >>SONYA LITTLE: We have not moved forward with that and I
12:08:16 can tell you Y.because when we were actually figuring out
12:08:19 how we maintain our system when we were prepping for the FY
12:08:23 16 budget, we anticipated that we would have to contribute
12:08:29 to use general fund moneys on the operating side or $100,000
12:08:34 in capital improvement, but then also capital improvement
12:08:38 projects of about 1.2 million.
12:08:40 So right now, where we are is we don't anticipate having to
12:08:45 use any of the general fund money because of the
12:08:51 performance.
12:08:51 We are not in a position right now to adjust any of the
12:08:54 rates.
12:08:55 We have to consider where we are, get more data points and
12:08:57 so forth.
12:08:57 >>LISA MONTELIONE: It's been five years.
12:08:59 How many data points do we need?
12:09:01 >>SONYA LITTLE: Well, this is the first year and the first
12:09:03 time they've come before you to tell you that --
12:09:06 >>LISA MONTELIONE: I assume that but I have been asking the
12:09:09 same question for five years about raising the parking
12:09:13 rates.
12:09:13 >>SONYA LITTLE: I understand.
12:09:15 >>LISA MONTELIONE: I don't think it takes you and your
12:09:17 staff are very, very knowledgeable, professional, and not
12:09:30 that you can't vet the information and all of those data
12:09:33 points together, it's that there must be some resistance on
12:09:36 the administration's side to raise the parking rates.
12:09:41 Even when parking was in the hole, we have got enormous
12:09:45 numbers of people coming downtown, and our rates are so out
12:09:48 of line with what we should be charging.
12:09:51 I don't know when the last time was that we raised the
12:09:54 parking rates to any significant considerable amount, and I
12:10:00 think it's far beyond time but maybe not.
12:10:04 Thank you.
12:10:06 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Mr. Cohen.
12:10:07 >>HARRY COHEN: Obviously there are differences of opinion
12:10:09 on that matter.
12:10:11 (Laughter).
12:10:12 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Go ahead.
12:10:12 >>SONYA LITTLE: Solid waste.
12:10:22 If we just go directly to the bottom line, we had
12:10:25 anticipated $8.2 million as far as the fund balance.
12:10:31 We are building fund balance for a number of reasons.
12:10:36 We have an obligation to have 90 days of reserve on hand in
12:10:44 the bank in the event that there is a problem.
12:10:49 Obviously with having a waste to energy plant that is the
12:10:52 age that it is, and of the value it is, it's real critical
12:10:56 for us to build our reserves, so that is a number one
12:11:01 objective and goal for us.
12:11:04 So based on where we are now with the data points that we
12:11:07 have now, we currently have a fund balance projection of
12:11:12 $11.5 million.
12:11:14 And the large majority of that will be used in order to
12:11:17 start meeting our reserve fund requirements for operations
12:11:21 and maintenance, as well as to help start covering some of
12:11:24 the capital costs and replacement costs for our aging system
12:11:29 for solid waste.
12:11:31 Very similarly, our wastewater system, we all know with our
12:11:42 pipes, our aging pipes and our aging system, that there are
12:11:46 large, large capital requirements to our system replacement,
12:11:53 our pipe replacement program.
12:11:54 So again the same goals and objectives for both our water
12:11:58 and wastewater system to build the reserves, to cover our
12:12:03 operations and maintenance, and to pay wherever we possibly
12:12:06 can cash to fund our capital program.
12:12:12 And that's reflected on both these slides for wastewater and
12:12:16 water.
12:12:18 So with today giving you an overview of where we are
12:12:28 projecting based on the data points that we have right now
12:12:31 through FY 2016, we are in the process right now of prepping
12:12:38 for our fiscal year 2017, coming quickly, but we are in the
12:12:43 process of doing that right now.
12:12:45 So we have requested -- and I believe that we are on your
12:12:48 calendar to come back for a June 16 workshop where we will
12:12:54 primarily start delving more into the FY 2017 financial
12:13:00 information with the mayor's budget presentation for the FY
12:13:06 2016 budget cycle occurring, which I also believe is
12:13:10 currently scheduled by council for July 21, 2016, and will
12:13:16 follow with at least two public hearings thereafter in the
12:13:21 month of September before we come back and ask council to
12:13:24 finally adopt the proposed FY 2016 budget.
12:13:30 We will have those dates after hearing from the school board
12:13:33 that's required by statute that they schedule theirs first.
12:13:36 >>HARRY COHEN: Just for everyone's information, our last
12:13:43 two regularly scheduled council days in September are the
12:13:45 15th and the 22nd.
12:13:47 So when you get that information, keep that in mind in terms
12:13:51 of maybe targeting those days for the hearings.
12:13:55 We do have a night meeting on the 22nd as well.
12:13:58 It's a day meeting.
12:13:59 So there is plenty of room on regularly scheduled days to do
12:14:05 these budget hearings.
12:14:06 >>SONYA LITTLE: Thank you.
12:14:09 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Any other questions or comments to our CFO?
12:14:13 Okay.
12:14:14 Thank you again.
12:14:15 A pleasure as always.
12:14:16 >>SONYA LITTLE: Thank you.
12:14:20 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Because the time is late, and a fed council,
12:14:26 I have found, is a happy council.
12:14:27 We are going to go on recess -- is 2 p.m. okay?
12:14:31 We are going to be in recess until 2 p.m.
12:14:34 (City Council in recess until 2:00 p.m.)
12:14:42
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.
Tampa City Council
Thursday, May 19, 2006
2:00 p.m. Session
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.
02:12:14 [Sounding gavel]
02:12:15 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Tampa City Council is called back in to
02:12:17 order.
02:12:17 Roll call.
02:12:18 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: Here.
02:12:21 >>FRANK REDDICK: Here.
02:12:23 >>YVONNE CAPIN: Present.
02:12:24 >>HARRY COHEN: Here.
02:12:25 >>GUIDO MANISCALCO: Here.
02:12:26 >>LISA MONTELIONE: Here.
02:12:28 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Here.
02:12:29 Thank you for your patience.
02:12:31 I apologize for us running a little late coming out of the
02:12:35 box.
02:12:36 We are going to start back on staff reports and unfinished
02:12:39 business before we go to our hearings.
02:12:42 Number 58, if we have someone from staff ready to talk about
02:12:45 that.
02:12:46 I would appreciate it.
02:12:47 >>BOB McDONAUGH: Do development.
02:12:54 Hopefully, all of you have gotten a copy of this letter that
02:13:01 was sent during the morning meeting.
02:13:03 The North Hyde Park alliance wrote a letter giving
02:13:07 additional support to the Julian B. Lane.
02:13:09 Talking about Julian B. Lane, it started with the InVision
02:13:13 plan.
02:13:14 Engaging our community about what was important to them.
02:13:20 One of the things we talked about was regional parks.
02:13:22 $35 million.
02:13:24 Is that expensive?
02:13:25 It certainly is.
02:13:27 People bought into this InVision plan and what it's going to
02:13:31 do for our neighborhoods.
02:13:34 After InVision came about, what we talked about doing, which
02:13:37 constructed just a few blocks from that park.
02:13:42 Just recently sold for $57 million.
02:13:45 Is that expensive?
02:13:47 Yes, you bet.
02:13:48 The Habana square across the street from NOVO flats, a $45
02:13:55 million investment S.that expensive?
02:13:57 Yes, it is, you bet.
02:13:59 The InVision plan we talked about connecting and improving
02:14:02 neighborhoods.
02:14:03 And people bought into that vision.
02:14:06 We have a lot of those people here this morning talking
02:14:08 about their dream for the neighborhood, and as you recall,
02:14:11 not that long ago, we built -- developed the CRA, 950 acres
02:14:16 in that area, and what was going to be outside of it
02:14:21 generated a lot of conversation.
02:14:22 People were very passionate about their neighborhoods, and a
02:14:27 lot of times it's incumbent upon to us provide this
02:14:32 recreation space and that's what this park is all about.
02:14:35 You know, members of the Jewish community center were here
02:14:40 today.
02:14:40 They are investing $32 million in that neighborhood.
02:14:43 Is it worth it?
02:14:44 Yeah, you bet.
02:14:45 Is it expensive?
02:14:46 Yes, it is.
02:14:47 So one of the things that's interesting is continuing
02:14:51 building of the neighborhood, the InVision plan and what
02:14:54 people see.
02:14:57 Mark local president, Lennar building homes, so successful
02:15:06 that they bought more land and they are building another one
02:15:08 right near the park.
02:15:09 What's interesting, area president for Lennar Homes, I think
02:15:14 the country's largest home builder can live anywhere.
02:15:17 He and his family are living in one of those townhomes right
02:15:20 in that neighborhood.
02:15:22 So again, he's buying into the vision that we are talking
02:15:25 about.
02:15:30 Main homes is another company that built all around our
02:15:33 city.
02:15:33 Right now they are concentrating a lot of their efforts in
02:15:36 that neighborhood.
02:15:36 Again, they are buying into that vision.
02:15:40 So we have a 954-acre CRA to support the InVision plan and
02:15:44 to talk about what we are doing there.
02:15:46 You know, the people in the neighborhood are passionate.
02:15:49 We are seeing the redevelopment of North Boulevard homes
02:15:52 which is probably one of the strongest reasons for this
02:15:55 park.
02:15:56 Again, what we are trying to do is leverage our investment.
02:15:59 And in our choice neighborhoods grant, we have to show an
02:16:03 investment in that community.
02:16:05 This park is part of that investment in the community.
02:16:09 So what we are looking at with North Boulevard homes and
02:16:12 that west river redevelopment, 2300 homes, and an investment
02:16:18 close to $500 million dollars.
02:16:21 Is it expensive?
02:16:22 It is.
02:16:23 Is it worth it?
02:16:24 I maintain that it is.
02:16:25 Thank you.
02:16:25 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Mr. Miranda.
02:16:28 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: Thank you very much for bringing me up
02:16:31 to history so many times.
02:16:32 Let me tell you what expensive S.expensive is wanting to buy
02:16:35 something for ten dollars and you don't have it.
02:16:39 Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
02:16:40 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Thank you.
02:16:41 Mrs. Montelione.
02:16:42 >>LISA MONTELIONE: Thank you.
02:16:46 Although I am interested to hear what my colleagues have to
02:16:48 say, it's already been widely reported in the press that I
02:16:53 think this is too expensive.
02:16:55 And to have a quality park in the realm of what we have been
02:17:04 building lately with Perry Harvey park and Curtis Hicks own
02:17:10 park and Waterworks Park, we have three parks fairly close
02:17:15 proximity to one another and fairly close proximity to the
02:17:19 one that's being planned.
02:17:21 These are all Meg A parks, they are regional parks, you have
02:17:26 to drive to get to them if you don't live in the surrounding
02:17:30 neighborhoods, they are too R too far to bike or walk, and
02:17:35 what happens with the building regional parks is that the
02:17:45 neighborhoods don't have an internal small pocket park that
02:17:49 is down the street from their house.
02:17:52 I don't recall the Parks Department in five years proposing
02:17:57 any small neighborhood parks.
02:18:01 My district has six parks.
02:18:04 It's the largest land area district in the city, goes all
02:18:08 the way to the Pasco County line.
02:18:10 I have six parks.
02:18:13 One of them is a pool the size of a postage stamp that's in
02:18:16 the middle of a parking lot between two schools.
02:18:21 I have had to fight tooth and nail to get improvements to a
02:18:25 park that has been underwater since long before I took
02:18:28 office.
02:18:29 Finally that is being done to the tune of $1 million but it
02:18:34 took me five years to fight for that $1 million.
02:18:37 And the only reason that's getting done is because another
02:18:39 park, which is not servicing the neighborhood is a
02:18:43 tournament baseball park.
02:18:45 The improvements there are not being done.
02:18:47 So that money was shifted from Greco baseball park to Forest
02:18:52 Hills.
02:18:53 That's the only way that Forest Hills got any relief from
02:18:56 the flooding with wetlands plants growing in the outfield,
02:19:00 with water so high, the basketball court was -- the pole for
02:19:04 the basketball net was half underwater.
02:19:09 New Tampa neighborhood park needs to be expanded.
02:19:13 The programs are busting at the seams.
02:19:19 It's the only public park in North Tampa for kids who don't
02:19:22 live within a community can go to, and there's a lot of kids
02:19:25 who live in apartments and such that this family park may
02:19:29 have to go, too.
02:19:35 So those are some of the reasons why I can't endorse
02:19:39 spending this amount of money on major parks.
02:19:45 In New Tampa, all of Lennar and all the other home build who
02:19:50 built in New Tampa built their own parks internal to the
02:19:53 community.
02:19:55 You know, a taxpayer dollar that's going back into operating
02:20:01 the park, in some cases, but spending -- the city
02:20:07 spending -- actually closer to $40 million if you added the
02:20:10 money that's already been spent on one park, and developers
02:20:21 are making the investment because we are making the
02:20:23 investment.
02:20:24 Developers will make the development investment putting
02:20:27 infrastructure in to the parks to the tune of less than $40
02:20:31 million.
02:20:31 And then where the money is coming from. Bonding out the
02:20:34 money, as Councilman Miranda has succinctly stated, is not
02:20:40 something that I could agree with.
02:20:42 And I also can't agree with using the BP money to build a
02:20:45 park.
02:20:46 We have -- it's on the agenda.
02:20:50 On the same agenda.
02:20:50 I couldn't have planned this better myself.
02:20:53 We have a stormwater assessment where we are asking our
02:20:55 residents whose property floods, neighborhood floods, to are
02:21:00 more money out of their pockets because we are not -- you
02:21:03 know, we are not taking the money out of our own budget to
02:21:06 fix the stormwater issue.
02:21:08 If we want an appropriate use for BP moneys, and there's an
02:21:15 environmentally related disaster that brought that money to
02:21:18 us, then treating stormwater would be a fantastic use for
02:21:22 it.
02:21:23 That's where I think this money should go, into fixing our
02:21:27 stormwater issues.
02:21:29 Not to building one park.
02:21:32 And again it's such close proximity to so many other major
02:21:36 regional parks.
02:21:37 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Any questions or comments from council?
02:21:44 Mr. Reddick.
02:21:45 >>FRANK REDDICK: Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
02:21:51 Mr. McDonaugh, let me ask you a question.
02:21:53 Of any of these funds coming out of reserve funds?
02:21:57 >>BOB McDONAUGH: No, sir.
02:21:58 >>FRANK REDDICK: Any funds coming out of general operating
02:22:02 funds?
02:22:02 >>BOB McDONAUGH: No, sir.
02:22:05 >>FRANK REDDICK: Thank you.
02:22:06 And I listened to Mr. Dwight Olson who was earlier talking
02:22:13 and you heard him reference to the park department.
02:22:18 When I was growing up one block from Beulah Baptist church
02:22:25 where our grandmother lives, we were at old Waterfront Park
02:22:30 and we still call it riverfront.
02:22:33 No disrespect to Julian B. Lane but we still call it
02:22:36 Riverfront Park.
02:22:37 And then what I want to say about it is this.
02:22:48 I don't know if many of you know if you take Louis Bronson,
02:22:51 one of the to administrators for the school district in
02:22:54 Hillsborough County, you take Bryan Harrison, who is the
02:22:57 chief assistant basketball coach for West Virginia
02:23:00 university, they put together a summer basketball league
02:23:07 that was sanctioned by the NCAA.
02:23:12 Only one in the State of Florida, and served as the
02:23:21 bookkeeper.
02:23:22 I was the bookkeeper for that league.
02:23:30 It is now 5-3.
02:23:31 So the history that we had growing up in that park -- and I
02:23:37 can tell you somebody stated, the man from the Housing
02:23:43 Authority, stated that how he used to enjoy going at the
02:23:50 very activities we would have in the park, and it was pride
02:23:58 for people who lived in the community.
02:24:00 They felt comfortable because they had nowhere to go and
02:24:03 somewhere to take their family and all kind of activities to
02:24:05 a place out there at that park.
02:24:08 And the problem is that over the years, the park was not
02:24:12 receiving the type of maintenance care that it should have
02:24:16 received, and that was a decline in structure of the park,
02:24:27 where the concrete was starting to pack it was not paved or
02:24:30 repaved, when the restroom doors were -- the locks were
02:24:38 broken, it was not taken care of.
02:24:40 The pavilion they had out there for entertainment and all
02:24:43 this to take place, it was a wonderful facility but it was
02:24:48 not maintained, and eventually people stopped coming to the
02:24:52 park.
02:24:54 But I recall the days when it would be like a family
02:24:59 gathering out there on a Sunday.
02:25:00 We used to have 500, 600, 700 people out there participating
02:25:05 in the park.
02:25:06 And one of the things I could say is that with that summer
02:25:10 basketball league, the only one in the State of Florida,
02:25:14 NCAA, we had college scouts coming out there watching, and
02:25:21 got some of the most prominent people in this city who got
02:25:25 scholarships and went to college, and someone who got
02:25:32 try-outs, got to professional teams.
02:25:37 Even though we are talking about the $35 million talking
02:25:43 about being invested into this area,
02:25:47 I have to recall the neglect by the city into West Tampa.
02:25:59 I can't recall when this city has invested this kind of
02:26:03 funds into one neighborhood.
02:26:08 We heard about East Tampa.
02:26:09 We heard about downtown.
02:26:10 We heard about all these other places.
02:26:12 But we haven't heard about any investment into West Tampa.
02:26:17 And the thing is, this is a great opportunity for people in
02:26:23 West Tampa, and now they can feel a sense of pride.
02:26:28 And when I looked at all the e-mails and the phone calls I
02:26:32 got from people, I was surprised that they support this.
02:26:39 And I thought about it.
02:26:41 And I think this is a great opportunity.
02:26:48 Yes, $35 million is a lot of money.
02:26:50 But if you look at the last 20 years, we got one dollar was
02:26:55 invested.
02:26:57 And it deserves the money invested.
02:27:03 And therefore I think I am going to support it because I
02:27:08 think those people who have invested a lot of money
02:27:12 improving their neighborhoods, improving their homes, and
02:27:16 the kids having the experience where Riverfront Park used to
02:27:19 be, and now they don't have the same opportunity.
02:27:23 They can at least have their grandkids benefit from this
02:27:27 investment.
02:27:29 And I would just like to support it, you know, even though I
02:27:36 am not in West Tampa now, but I would just like to see that
02:27:41 community thrive again, and I think this will give us a
02:27:45 great opportunity to see that it does, and the satisfaction
02:27:49 of the people who live there and the people that are still
02:27:53 living there who recall what Riverfront Park used to be.
02:27:57 Again, I am not disrespecting Julian B. Lane but in the days
02:28:01 we called it Riverfront Park.
02:28:03 And I think this council owes the people in that community
02:28:11 and the grandkids who will benefit from this, that
02:28:14 opportunity, because they have been totally neglected for so
02:28:17 many years.
02:28:17 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Mr. Maniscalco and then Mr. Miranda.
02:28:22 >>BOB McDONAUGH: I was just going to say, Mr. Miranda, the
02:28:26 president of the North Boulevard homes --
02:28:30 David Downing, probably one of the best basketball players
02:28:38 to come out of there.
02:28:45 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Mr. Maniscalco.
02:28:47 >>GUIDO MANISCALCO: Ten years ago I was 21 years old.
02:28:51 And I say that to make you all feel old.
02:28:54 (Laughter)
02:28:55 >>MIKE SUAREZ: 20 years ago I was your age.
02:29:05 (Laughter)
02:29:06 >>GUIDO MANISCALCO: I remember coming down to the Museum of
02:29:07 Art, before we know it now, for an event and thinking to
02:29:11 myself, this place is a concrete jungle.
02:29:14 You know, there's nothing -- what's beautiful about this
02:29:17 other than a concrete foundation design?
02:29:20 There was nobody downtown.
02:29:22 The place was dead.
02:29:24 Past forward a few years later, I think 2010, and I was here
02:29:27 for the ribbon cutting for Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park as
02:29:30 we see it today.
02:29:31 Not that I'm a negative person.
02:29:33 I think I'm realistic.
02:29:34 I thought to myself, downtown doesn't have the density to
02:29:37 maintain a park of this size.
02:29:40 And this is before the Riverwalk Kennedy segment was
02:29:42 completed, before we see it today.
02:29:44 And I was wrong because we have seen the success of Curtis
02:29:46 Hixon.
02:29:47 There's events on the weekends and people coming from all
02:29:50 over the place filling it up.
02:29:51 Around that same time, 2010, 2011, I was a candidate and we
02:29:55 had an event at the armature works building.
02:29:58 I remember taking a walk out to what is Ulele and Waterworks
02:30:02 Park and it was a dump, it was trash, and I thought to
02:30:06 myself, this is prime riverfront property, why don't we do
02:30:08 something with it?
02:30:09 Lo and behold we get Ulele and Waterfront Park.
02:30:14 And I was at the ribbon cutting and I thought to myself, it
02:30:17 looks great but it's going to fail, there's no density
02:30:19 around here, not enough to maintain this park.
02:30:22 But on Sunday morning, when the city is pretty quiet, 9:00,
02:30:26 10:00, I'll come down to Waterworks Park, I'll go down to
02:30:30 Curtis Hixon, and there's a ton of people.
02:30:33 There's a lot of kids playing in the splash pads and water
02:30:36 works, people having picnics, there's people now at the
02:30:41 Riverwalk being completed at Curtis Hixon.
02:30:45 So compared to the project I like the park.
02:30:49 I started going to Julian Lane when I was a teenager.
02:30:52 A lot of people don't know it exists.
02:30:53 A lot of people don't know it's there.
02:30:55 I have taken a lot of strangers there.
02:30:57 You know, we have this beautiful park.
02:30:59 Because I like it as it is.
02:31:00 But looking at waterworks and its success, looking at Curtis
02:31:03 Hixon and its success, it's acted as a catalyst for
02:31:07 everything that is happening around it.
02:31:08 You go to water works and it's busy.
02:31:10 You go to Ulele and it Board of Directors.
02:31:15 You have people on the Riverwalk.
02:31:16 There was a gentleman in the audience.
02:31:17 He said I don't know how many thousands of miles he's run
02:31:21 the Riverwalk, does it six days out of the week and he's
02:31:24 coming from West Tampa, he drives over and use it is park.
02:31:27 But I see the community asset.
02:31:29 I see what it does to the area around it.
02:31:32 I look at the next generation.
02:31:35 And I want to be able to tell the story to whoever it is, my
02:31:38 children or neighbors or citizens, and say, I remember what
02:31:42 this used to be.
02:31:43 You know it as a beautiful place but I remember what it was.
02:31:45 And they are not going to believe me, because I believe in a
02:31:48 project like this.
02:31:49 I believe it's an investment done wisely it's going to be
02:31:51 good for the community, and it's something that will pay
02:31:55 dividends for generations to come.
02:31:57 So I will be supporting it.
02:31:58 >> Just a note, this fellow that you are talking about that
02:32:04 runs on the Riverwalk every day from West Tampa, he won't
02:32:06 have to go to the other side of the river to do that.
02:32:10 I have now assembled right-of-way from Bayshore to Columbus
02:32:13 and we will be building a trail that will span from Bayshore
02:32:17 Boulevard all the way to Columbus on the west side of the
02:32:20 river.
02:32:20 So again connecting neighbor neighborhoods, and giving
02:32:23 somebody like that -- he doesn't have to travel.
02:32:29 >> And this is the first time you told me this.
02:32:32 I think what we talk about, being safer for bicyclists,
02:32:36 safer for pedestrians.
02:32:39 But what the Pinellas trail, from Columbus to Bayshore is a
02:32:44 huge distance.
02:32:45 It's a safe distance that people can walk and bike safely.
02:32:49 It's another community asset.
02:32:51 It will give people another incentive to come downtown, to
02:32:54 want to move to be this area.
02:32:55 We have more to offer.
02:32:57 It's very, very positive.
02:32:58 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Mr. Miranda.
02:32:59 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
02:33:02 First of all what comes around goes around.
02:33:04 All of a sudden everybody wants to walk and ride bikes.
02:33:08 That's all we did when we were kids.
02:33:10 Nobody had a car.
02:33:11 So you took the bus, walk or got a bike.
02:33:14 So it's coming back around again.
02:33:18 And I'm glad to see that.
02:33:19 In fact, when I grow back to that ERA, Cuscaden park where
02:33:26 we grew up at, all of us used to gone to Cuscaden park.
02:33:30 In fact the only park I know of that has two Hall of Famers
02:33:33 in baseball.
02:33:34 One is Mr. Al Lopez and Tony LaRussa.
02:33:38 So one you had the pleasure to come in.
02:33:41 The other would give us pep talks when he was a manager.
02:33:44 And it makes you think a lot different.
02:33:46 It ain't about you can do anything you want to in the city,
02:33:52 try to fix it, built $10 million houses on every corner.
02:33:56 But if you don't have kids, kids that engage in something,
02:34:02 you don't have nothing.
02:34:04 And it's not that I am in favor or against the park.
02:34:08 What's going to happen without the park?
02:34:10 And what concerns me the most about this is the good people
02:34:14 in East Tampa have been asking for a senior center.
02:34:17 What's going to happen there?
02:34:23 The park we bought there, a church next to the civic center
02:34:27 in 2013 for $400,000.
02:34:29 I think you all stole it really.
02:34:31 It was planned to spend $600,000 on something that's worth 3
02:34:35 million.
02:34:35 A great deal for all of us.
02:34:37 But nothing has happened.
02:34:38 So what I am saying is we do things, we want to do things,
02:34:41 get things done, but we make an effort to the finish line
02:34:44 and we just don't cross it.
02:34:46 Not here.
02:34:47 Anywhere.
02:34:49 To a lot of degree.
02:34:50 And I am not speaking to anyone personally.
02:34:52 Don't get me wrong.
02:34:53 So what I am saying is these things we have to look at, and
02:34:56 if we are going to spend 35 million on one, which is fine,
02:35:02 there might be better money needed for some other projects,
02:35:05 out of the BP money.
02:35:06 But think what would happen if you did not have the BP
02:35:09 money.
02:35:09 Would you still be building a park?
02:35:14 All these things come to my mind, got to make a decision.
02:35:18 And the one that helped me the most in making the decision
02:35:21 is sitting in the front row.
02:35:25 It's not you and it's not you and it's not the guy at the
02:35:28 end.
02:35:29 The lady next to the guy at the end.
02:35:33 We had an hour conversation yesterday between the phone and
02:35:36 a personal conversation, and we talked about finances.
02:35:39 And we talked about the five years within the ten years and
02:35:42 how that was coming and what the ramifications were.
02:35:45 And all of us for or against something, you have to make the
02:35:51 decision whether it's the right thing at the right time to
02:35:53 do something right.
02:35:54 And I stated earlier, I never said I was going to vote for
02:35:58 or against this park.
02:35:59 I said I want to get all the information.
02:36:01 The only component was the last one that I didn't like,
02:36:04 because it was hard to swallow, the way I looked at it.
02:36:08 But she softened the blow, and she gave me a lesson in
02:36:11 mathematics that I thought I could add two and two and get
02:36:15 three out of but she taught met that it's four, not three.
02:36:19 But all these things are done, and you remember most when
02:36:22 you were a kid.
02:36:24 You know what?
02:36:25 That's what helps society.
02:36:27 Or that's what hinders society, when you have nothing to do
02:36:30 and you are on the streets.
02:36:31 Some kids don't have the opportunity most of us had, to have
02:36:35 direction, to have someone tell us exactly what we have ton
02:36:37 do, not that you take the advice.
02:36:40 I never took a lot of advice.
02:36:42 Took a lot of beat fringes my mother that gave me the
02:36:44 advice.
02:36:45 But these are the things that you learn as you are growing
02:36:47 up.
02:36:48 And the fondest memories of my life were Cuscaden park.
02:36:55 I learned how to swim.
02:36:58 I learned how to play a little baseball.
02:37:01 I wasn't the best swimmer.
02:37:03 I certainly wasn't the best ball player.
02:37:05 But I enjoyed going there.
02:37:08 There was a tennis court.
02:37:09 I wasn't 7-foot 2 so it couldn't dunk the ball, but I could
02:37:14 scale the wall at Cuscaden park to go free at night.
02:37:18 So all these things come to my mind.
02:37:20 And it's just an opportunity that you have to say, am I
02:37:25 making an investment for the future, long-term, or do I
02:37:27 shorten it for something today and wait until tomorrow to do
02:37:31 something of that magnitude?
02:37:32 I just don't know where we are going to find another 50
02:37:36 million from another windfall.
02:37:38 That's what you have.
02:37:41 It is what it is.
02:37:42 And you have the CRA contributing.
02:37:45 The only component that I talked about was the CIT.
02:37:48 And Mrs. Little, and I, she taught me a lot about what's
02:37:54 happening there and what the ramifications were and if I
02:37:57 remember there were about $35 million left that coupon tent
02:38:00 last ten years.
02:38:02 That money is still available.
02:38:04 However, I want assurances that if this park is built, that
02:38:08 it's going to be fully staffed, not something halfway done.
02:38:13 We don't need a halfway house in a park.
02:38:15 We need it.
02:38:16 I want to know what the ramifications are when it comes back
02:38:19 on contract time, what's going to happen, who is going to
02:38:21 have the revenues for that park.
02:38:24 The park will produce something.
02:38:27 You are going to have some type of things that people want
02:38:31 that they are going to have to pay for, I hope and pray that
02:38:35 it's done to the taxpayers benefit for the revenues, not
02:38:40 some company out of Omaha, Nebraska or something.
02:38:43 That's what I am looking at.
02:38:44 I want to hear the rest of the discussion before I make my
02:38:47 decision but I am leaning towered yes, because I understand
02:38:50 what it was to be a kid.
02:38:54 I'm still 25, times three, and these are the things that
02:38:57 make me a person.
02:38:58 You don't learn overnight.
02:39:01 But you learn during the day how to handle yourself at
02:39:04 night.
02:39:05 Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
02:39:05 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Thank you.
02:39:07 Mr. Cohen.
02:39:08 >>HARRY COHEN: Thank you very much.
02:39:12 I really wrestled with this.
02:39:15 And because of the amount of time that we have had to
02:39:18 consider it, I have had a lot of opportunity to meet with
02:39:21 the staff, and really think through the proposal that is
02:39:27 being presented today.
02:39:29 I want to just start off by saying something Councilwoman
02:39:32 Montelione said.
02:39:33 If I thought for two minutes that there was support on this
02:39:38 council and from the administration to use the BP money for
02:39:41 stormwater, that would be what I would be in favor of doing.
02:39:46 But it's been very clear to me through the process that
02:39:50 regardless of the stormwater issues, that isn't the feeling
02:39:54 of the majority of the group.
02:39:55 And because that's the case, and also because during this
02:40:00 period of time that we had to review this proposal, I was
02:40:03 able to talk through with the staff some of the questions I
02:40:07 had about just how much money this is.
02:40:10 $35 million.
02:40:11 Is there any way to back anything out of it?
02:40:14 Are there matching funds that might be available to us from
02:40:16 the federal government, if we make these type of
02:40:19 investments?
02:40:20 And I understand the answer to that is yes.
02:40:24 I have sort of come to a place now where I really have to
02:40:27 answer yes or no.
02:40:29 Yes to the proposal on the table, or no.
02:40:35 At the end of the day, I think a park is a worthy use of our
02:40:43 treasured resources.
02:40:45 We have 23 acres right in the middle of the city on the
02:40:48 river.
02:40:49 And I know that myself, when I walk through New York City
02:40:52 and see Central Park or walk through Washington, D.C. on the
02:40:55 national mall, every time I say to myself, wow, the people
02:41:01 that have the foresight to do this really ought to be
02:41:05 complimented, because look at what they carved out for the
02:41:08 city to grow up around.
02:41:10 And I really do believe, as tight as times are now, as
02:41:15 difficult as money is to come by, that at the end of the day
02:41:18 it is a good long-term investment to the city.
02:41:21 It is going to provoke not just growth but the rebirth of
02:41:25 the neighborhoods that the council members have been talking
02:41:28 about today.
02:41:29 And that is really the type of -- and the word that's been
02:41:33 used is investment.
02:41:34 The type of investment that we really auto be making.
02:41:39 I have been very frustrated at times with council when we
02:41:43 haven't looked at the city globally and remember that we are
02:41:47 all part of one city.
02:41:49 I feel very strongly that we are.
02:41:52 And just because this is going to benefit one region of the
02:41:56 city, disproportionately, the fact of the matter is it's a
02:42:00 good investment.
02:42:01 It's going to spur growth downtown.
02:42:03 It's going to be great for the Straz Center master plan.
02:42:07 It's definitely going to help the Jewish community center
02:42:09 with their project.
02:42:11 And it's certainly going to provide amenities for the
02:42:14 housing that we continue to approve all around where this
02:42:18 money is going to be put in.
02:42:20 Finally, I want to say that, you know, Councilwoman
02:42:23 Montelione is absolutely correct that there are huge needs
02:42:26 in terms of neighborhood parks in the city, and believe me,
02:42:30 in my district in South Tampa, I have a long list of them.
02:42:34 But part of the problem also in a lot of those parks is that
02:42:39 they are overused, that the amenities are so popular that
02:42:45 they are overwhelmed with people using them, particularly on
02:42:48 the weekends.
02:42:49 And the neighborhoods cannot support the parking and the
02:42:52 noise and a lot of the stresses that come from that level of
02:42:57 demand.
02:42:58 I think that when you put the money all over the city, and
02:43:03 when you really invest in neighborhoods where we haven't put
02:43:06 the money recently, what you ultimately do is help
02:43:09 everybody, because the amenities and parks that the
02:43:14 neighborhoods have will not get as much use because there
02:43:20 will be more places for people to go and more activities for
02:43:22 people to choose from, and somebody that wants to launch a
02:43:26 boat into the water won't have to settle for, you know,
02:43:29 something a little bit different.
02:43:31 We think don't really have that type of amenity in the city.
02:43:34 So I understand the concerns about the amount of money it
02:43:38 is.
02:43:38 It's a lot of money.
02:43:39 I really hope of that through a tiger grant, or other moneys
02:43:43 that I understand are available from the federal government,
02:43:45 that we have a real shot at recouping some of this
02:43:50 investment as we move forward, but we will never get that
02:43:53 money, we will never qualify for federal funds for the tiger
02:43:56 grant application if we don't put this money in
02:44:00 Finally, we are going to talk about stormwater later in the
02:44:02 day.
02:44:03 I don't feel that we have an obligation to address the
02:44:07 city's stormwater and flooding needs, but I think this is a
02:44:11 good project, and I think we ought to move forward on it.
02:44:14 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Thank you.
02:44:16 Mrs. Capin.
02:44:16 >>YVONNE CAPIN: Thank you, colleagues.
02:44:20 It's very helpful.
02:44:24 As stated, you know, I'm an Ybor-West Tampa girl, on the
02:44:32 river.
02:44:33 But here is the thing.
02:44:34 I also agree with Mr. Miranda, my colleagues.
02:44:37 I learned to swim at Cuscaden park pool.
02:44:41 It's very important to the children.
02:44:42 It's very, very important to be able to go somewhere as
02:44:47 Councilman Reddick said.
02:44:49 That being said, one of my concerns here is I have had at
02:44:55 least a half dozen calls in the past, oh, I would say three
02:45:00 months or so.
02:45:01 And those are the ones on Ballast Point.
02:45:08 And the issue of parking and overcrowding.
02:45:13 What are we going to do about being able to -- this is
02:45:20 23.2-acre park.
02:45:22 Now, I also paid attention to Macfarlane Park, 36.85 acres.
02:45:30 And Macfarlane Park gets used a lot.
02:45:38 It's not that far away, the 36.85 acres MacFarlane park, but
02:45:43 it doesn't have a riverfront, and it isn't -- and I agree
02:45:46 with my colleagues, West Tampa riverfront is what it is.
02:45:51 It's not the west bank.
02:45:53 It's West Tampa riverfront.
02:45:59 That all being said, I tend to agree -- again, I had this
02:46:09 conversation over a year ago with Mr. Beneck about his
02:46:15 project, and I said to him -- he comes to us from Boston.
02:46:19 And it was February.
02:46:20 And I said, why do so many people flock to Boston?
02:46:25 They have a ton of green space, parks, and culture.
02:46:32 That makes the core.
02:46:33 It is very important to the core to have these spaces for
02:46:37 people to gather and play and meet.
02:46:43 And so I know, again, I agree, my colleagues 35 million, 40
02:46:48 million, but not to act on it, I think, is a disservice.
02:46:56 I really do.
02:46:56 I think that would be a disservice to our citizens that we
02:47:01 have this opportunity to move forward.
02:47:05 And it's not only for the people of West Tampa.
02:47:08 All our parks are for all the people of all the city.
02:47:12 And you can see at water works and Curtis Hixon, they come
02:47:14 from all over the city.
02:47:16 They may come from the other side of the pond.
02:47:20 So with that, I would say -- and it's come out that we have
02:47:25 not -- really, West Tampa has been on its own for a long,
02:47:28 long time.
02:47:29 And it was able to sustain itself, by itself.
02:47:34 And so now we have the opportunity, because people in both
02:47:41 neighborhoods, it's not a desolate area.
02:47:44 It is a thriving neighborhood that people work and play in.
02:47:50 So with that, I tend to agree that the $40 million is an
02:47:58 opportunity.
02:47:58 It is an opportunity.
02:47:59 The park is an opportunity.
02:48:01 Not the 40 million.
02:48:02 40 million is a lot -- a lot of money.
02:48:04 But, again, I imagine, my thinking is that years from now,
02:48:10 long after I'm gone, there will be people using that park
02:48:14 and thriving because of it.
02:48:16 And so with that I will be supporting it.
02:48:18 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Before I add the final word, is there anyone
02:48:23 else on council that has a question or comment?
02:48:25 Mrs. Montelione.
02:48:26 >>LISA MONTELIONE: So I had my aide plot out the distance
02:48:30 between our big city shiny object park downtown enough to
02:48:38 incite jokes for two people in the front yard.
02:48:42 Perry Harvey is 2.8-mile.
02:48:44 Curtis Hixon to Waterworks Park is 1.2 miles.
02:48:49 Water works to Julian B. Lane park is 1.3 miles.
02:48:55 Julian B. Lane to Perry Harvey is 1.3 miles.
02:48:59 Julian B. Lane to Curtis Hixon is 1.1-mile.
02:49:07 You have all this beautiful green space.
02:49:11 Mrs. Little, how much do we spend on Perry Harvey?
02:49:21 Somebody?
02:49:22 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Come on up to the microphone.
02:49:27 >> 9 million.
02:49:28 >>LISA MONTELIONE: 9 million on Perry Harvey.
02:49:30 How much on Curtis Hixon?
02:49:32 >>SONYA LITTLE: Back in 2008-2009 we think spent a total TV
02:49:35 20 million.
02:49:36 >>LISA MONTELIONE: 20.
02:49:37 How much on water works?
02:49:39 >>SONYA LITTLE: Water works was 6.6.
02:49:43 >>LISA MONTELIONE: It's a lot of money for one mile, more
02:49:50 or less radius.
02:49:56 I think that there's such a thing as important as downtown
02:50:00 is, as important as the west river development is to the
02:50:08 city and to revitalizing neighborhoods, that's a lot of
02:50:13 money within one mile of each other.
02:50:17 And for people to say that, you won't have to go over there,
02:50:22 it's so far.
02:50:25 That makes me sad, because all the way from Julian B. Lane
02:50:36 to the furthest point would be probably water works, just a
02:50:43 little over a mile.
02:50:44 If you add them all up together and go in a circumference
02:50:48 it's less than five miles.
02:50:49 If you are going to run and jog and bike, that's pretty
02:50:54 close to one another to be able to do all those things.
02:50:57 Do we need places for people to put in boats?
02:51:00 Absolutely.
02:51:00 We don't have enough boat launches that go into our river,
02:51:05 especially in this area.
02:51:09 $40 million is a lot of money on top of the 6 and the 9 and
02:51:15 the 20 that we have already spent within one mile of each
02:51:17 other.
02:51:19 And I have got to beg and plead for a million dollars to get
02:51:23 a park out of water so kids can play baseball just off of
02:51:28 Nebraska Avenue.
02:51:30 You want to talk about a neglected area?
02:51:32 Look at the area between 22nd street and Nebraska Avenue, or
02:51:38 go as far as Florida, or go as far as Armenia, between Busch
02:51:42 and Fowler Avenue.
02:51:44 I don't recall in five years or even long before I was on
02:51:47 council a heck of a lot of investment in that area.
02:51:51 There has been none.
02:51:54 There is zero investment in that area.
02:51:57 We have Copeland park that's falling apart.
02:52:02 I had to threaten and express to the hilt because it was
02:52:06 like the first week on the job that I was going to go in
02:52:09 there and replace ceiling tiles myself if those ceiling
02:52:13 tiles didn't get replaced.
02:52:14 We have ADA playground that you can't get into because it
02:52:21 was built, but the path going to it is not.
02:52:24 It's not compliant.
02:52:26 It's there but it's not compliant.
02:52:28 You break your ankle playing tennis on the tennis court
02:52:31 because it floods so bad at Forest Hills that the entire
02:52:34 surface of the tennis court is disintegrating.
02:52:38 And the same thing with be the racquetball court.
02:52:41 There is nothing, no other improvements other than the
02:52:45 stormwater issues that are being addressed at Forest Hills.
02:52:48 And there's nothing that I know of -- I begged TECO to go
02:52:52 out there and paint a mural on the side of the building.
02:52:55 They have it was never followed up on.
02:52:58 Copeland park is falling apart.
02:53:01 Nothing is planned for improvements there.
02:53:04 $40 million for a park within five miles, or within one mile
02:53:08 of all these other multi-million dollar parks?
02:53:13 No.
02:53:14 I just cannot support that.
02:53:16 And I am surprised that some of my colleagues don't see that
02:53:20 we have resources that are crumbling.
02:53:24 And Julian B. Lane, sure, should have been taken care of all
02:53:27 these years are? Yes.
02:53:30 Mr. Miranda is correct.
02:53:30 We don't have the maintenance for these parks.
02:53:35 People at SkyPoint regularly tweet that the fountains, the
02:53:42 tiles at Curtis Hicks on are broken.
02:53:45 We have maintenance issues.
02:53:47 We are going to build another $40 million park.
02:53:52 And I don't know how to maintain it.
02:53:54 And Skanska understands there are no moneys nor project
02:54:05 therefore programs are deemed not applicable.
02:54:09 The use of labor, union labor, prevailing wage is not
02:54:13 included in this GMP proposal.
02:54:16 And since there's no federal money, I would assume that
02:54:19 there's no -- my mind just went blank -- the asset thing.
02:54:33 The provisions because there's no federal money.
02:54:37 $40 million with a contract that has those great big
02:54:43 loopholes in it.
02:54:46 I don't know what else to say that would change the mind of
02:54:51 anyone up here.
02:54:52 I just hope that sometime in the near future the people who
02:55:00 are really neglected in the areas of North Tampa get some
02:55:05 kind of attention, because right now they get nothing.
02:55:08 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Any other comments? Mr. Miranda.
02:55:13 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: Copeland park did not exist under the
02:55:22 Greco administration it was built the way it is today.
02:55:25 There was no center there.
02:55:27 The only thing that was done, if it's in deplorable shape
02:55:33 then we must address.
02:55:34 That but there was no park.
02:55:35 In fact, under Dick Greco's administration things were so
02:55:40 bad when we looked at the park division that we had to
02:55:43 borrow money to fix the floors, the roof, the windows, and
02:55:47 many centers.
02:55:49 The hunt center that was at Drew Park was dilapidated.
02:55:52 We moved it when the airport bought it and built it at Al
02:55:56 Lopez park.
02:55:58 The senior center at barksdale was built under that same
02:56:04 term.
02:56:04 The one in Palmetto Beach, the one in East Tampa, we had a
02:56:09 span because things were not good, and we had to do it for
02:56:12 the kids and the seniors.
02:56:13 And by the way, seniors and kids don't mix too very well in
02:56:17 these parks, because seniors are much more active than kids.
02:56:24 (Laughter)
02:56:25 Thought I had to take a little crack at it.
02:56:27 But it is what it is.
02:56:29 And if something needs attention, it should get attention.
02:56:32 That doesn't mean you have to close your eyes and say this,
02:56:35 that or the other.
02:56:37 Cuscaden park was close to Belmont Heights, Jackson Heights,
02:56:43 close to a lot of the Heights.
02:56:46 In fact, we built another park on 26th Avenue and
02:56:48 20th street.
02:56:52 It's all there.
02:56:52 And it's done because of demand and the need for these
02:56:57 things.
02:56:57 You know, I said earlier that if you don't have $10, that's
02:57:01 a lot of money.
02:57:04 What I am trying to tell you is, the average salary in this
02:57:10 area is about $40,000 a year.
02:57:14 So these kids got to do with or they got to do without.
02:57:20 And at the end of the day, what do you want that to be?
02:57:24 Society that did have an opportunity to really enjoy
02:57:29 themselves with a park and play?
02:57:31 You learn by your peers.
02:57:34 In fact, my baseball coach told me one day, remember this,
02:57:37 you can make an error.
02:57:39 I will never allow you to make a mistake.
02:57:42 That's why I didn't play much.
02:57:46 But what I am trying to tell you is you learn things by
02:57:49 camaraderie and making sure that you play and make sure
02:57:52 there's a feeling everywhere you do, and how you do things.
02:57:56 Like I said earlier, I never voted against a park.
02:57:59 In fact, I go back, and I thought of Mayor Greco and the
02:58:03 things that we had to do, and how we had to do them with
02:58:06 very little money.
02:58:08 But they were done.
02:58:11 Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
02:58:11 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Thank you.
02:58:12 Any other comments before I make my comments?
02:58:15 Okay.
02:58:16 Thank you all, colleagues, for what you have said about this
02:58:19 particular expenditure of dollars.
02:58:22 It is without a doubt one of the most important and
02:58:26 actually, I think one of the largest expenditures that we
02:58:28 have had to actually vote on and go forward with.
02:58:34 As Mr. Miranda said, a lot of memories from the days that
02:58:37 you played at the park, and Mr. Reddick made a comment that
02:58:41 really, I said to someone earlier this week, which is we
02:58:45 never called it Julian B. Lane.
02:58:47 It was always Riverfront Park.
02:58:49 I didn't even know it was called Julian B. Lane until after
02:58:53 I had graduated from high school, because the idea was that
02:58:56 if you said you are going to go play baseball at the
02:58:58 Heights, two questions you had, who are you playing with,
02:59:01 and which one, West Tampa Heights, or Riverfront Park?
02:59:06 Okay.
02:59:06 And so we would always make that decision as to have been
02:59:09 where we were going to play ball.
02:59:10 And I wasn't that good.
02:59:16 Yeah, I was too tall.
02:59:18 So when we talk about parks, it is the lifeblood of what we
02:59:21 do as a city.
02:59:22 We have to spend money on the things that we are trying to
02:59:24 maintain.
02:59:26 Mrs. Montelione is absolutely correct.
02:59:27 We are one of the few cities, I think, in the south,
02:59:30 especially, urban areas that have as many parks as we do.
02:59:34 I have a friend of mine who lives in the unincorporated area
02:59:37 of the county.
02:59:37 He says, you know what?
02:59:38 I wish we had as many pools in unincorporated area of the
02:59:42 county as you all do in the city.
02:59:45 And the reason why is that over the course of 100 years of
02:59:48 being in the city, different administrations made the
02:59:51 decision to invest in those neighborhoods.
02:59:54 And they are in different neighborhoods.
02:59:56 As Mr. Miranda said, there are lots of parks within a very
03:00:00 close distance of each other.
03:00:01 I live in a neighborhood called Riverside Heights and there
03:00:04 are three parks within a half mile of each other.
03:00:08 I can walk to one.
03:00:10 I call at dog park because it's really got a nice place for
03:00:13 to you walk your dog and everything.
03:00:15 None of them that have a great playground for younger kids.
03:00:18 Then a third one that has a ball field and another
03:00:21 playground for older kids.
03:00:23 And a basketball court.
03:00:24 And it's great to have all three of them there because I
03:00:27 have children that have grown up there, and we go to
03:00:31 different parks based on the fact that they do different
03:00:34 things now than they did before.
03:00:37 Those are the types of things that make a city important to
03:00:40 their citizens.
03:00:42 If you go to Chicago, and you look at millennial park, they
03:00:45 spend upwards of $100 million.
03:00:48 Of that, in terms of partnership, because of the size of
03:00:52 Chicago, the types of corporate headquarters that they have
03:00:54 there, they probably got about $50 million from private
03:00:58 corporate spenders.
03:01:00 And it is a magnificent park.
03:01:03 If you have never been to millennial park it is one of the
03:01:06 great public parks in the world.
03:01:07 Same thing with federal park in New York City.
03:01:12 If you look at the history of New York City -- and there's a
03:01:14 great book called The Power Broker, by Robert Moses and
03:01:19 Power Broker in New York City, that park was assembled
03:01:23 through years of pushing and pulling and making sure that
03:01:26 they could put that park together.
03:01:28 It is a gem for the city of New York.
03:01:32 Right there in the center of Manhattan.
03:01:34 It has now, because of where it's located, because of that
03:01:37 park being there, you have Dakota which is probably one of
03:01:42 the Toniest addresses in terms of what it takes to live
03:01:47 there.
03:01:48 I am not saying we are going to have a Dakota on the west
03:01:50 side of the river.
03:01:51 But I do know that parks do beget apartments and townhouses
03:01:57 and living and people who want to be near these green
03:01:59 spaces.
03:02:00 And it isn't only about whereby we put our green spaces,
03:02:03 it's about what we are going to have next to them later on.
03:02:08 The kind of development that we are going to provide, the
03:02:11 kind of people that are going to live thereby in terms of
03:02:13 people to enjoy that park and be able to say I'm next to
03:02:16 Riverfront Park, whether they call it Julian B. Lane or
03:02:20 riverfront, it's still by the river.
03:02:22 You can call it West Tampa riverfront.
03:02:24 And the thing is that as you develop as a city, it will
03:02:27 constantly change.
03:02:29 There are some parks that have gone by the wayside that
03:02:32 don't get as much enjoyment as they did before.
03:02:34 Mr. Miranda mentioned Cornelia hunt park which I used to go
03:02:41 to in the summertime which was near the airport in Drew
03:02:43 Park.
03:02:44 And I probably, just by virtue of the children that I have
03:02:47 and the time I spent as a kid, probably have gone to it
03:02:50 about 20 of the different parks around the city.
03:02:52 And some of them are still working very well.
03:02:54 Some need a lot of money and a lot of tender loving care
03:02:58 that we have not put into it.
03:03:00 And we do.
03:03:02 This does not mean that we have to take our foot off the
03:03:04 accelerator in terms of developing pieces of property that
03:03:08 are already as a park are not going to change to anything
03:03:11 else, and that we need to make those investments to make
03:03:14 sure that we keep going forward as a city.
03:03:18 The one aspect of the park being changed is something my
03:03:21 22-year-old son told me a while back.
03:03:24 Mayor Buckhorn made some comments about he didn't like the
03:03:28 dunes and concrete hills.
03:03:30 That's what my kids loved when they were in that park.
03:03:34 But they used to love going down those hills.
03:03:37 Now again it goes back to what Mr. Miranda said.
03:03:39 The memories you make as a kid, where you were at and what
03:03:42 you do, almost always -- especially here in Tampa -- it's
03:03:46 about the parks that you have been at, the place thaws go
03:03:48 with your family, the way that you have enjoyed those parks.
03:03:51 So to me, I think that I have a little bit of heartburn in
03:03:54 terms of the amount of money that we are putting into this.
03:03:57 Well, maybe a lot.
03:03:59 It is after lunch, after all.
03:04:00 For me, I dough see the value of the investment.
03:04:04 But we have to be diligent, and make sure that we continue
03:04:08 to maintain the other parks so they are not part of the
03:04:14 downtown core.
03:04:15 And that is I think the message we are sending to our
03:04:17 administration.
03:04:18 We may build this park.
03:04:19 We may continue to maintain it.
03:04:21 And it may a jewel of all the parks in the rest of the city,
03:04:23 but we have to make an effort to find the dollars necessary
03:04:27 to put back into the neighborhood parks that we currently
03:04:30 have, to put back into the programs that we currently have,
03:04:33 to continue to expand, because that is what is going to make
03:04:37 our city great.
03:04:38 I know that Wayne Papy, we had a roof leak at Wayne Papy
03:04:44 park, and the floor was destroyed.
03:04:46 This is prior to Mr. Baird becoming our parks director.
03:04:49 And the dance classes that used to be there had to stop
03:04:53 because the floor was destroyed.
03:04:55 And I remember my niece, my great niece, used to go there
03:04:59 and do dance, and I used to hear not only from the parents
03:05:01 who were there on a constant basis but the most important
03:05:05 critic of all, my mother, who would say, you have got to fix
03:05:08 this park, make sure that you fix the floor.
03:05:10 Believe me, we knew it.
03:05:11 We fixed it.
03:05:13 And it's still doing what it was intended to do which is to
03:05:15 serve as a place for people to congregate, young ladies,
03:05:19 young men to go dance, and to me that's a great testament to
03:05:23 us as a city.
03:05:24 We need to do more?
03:05:25 Absolutely.
03:05:25 Are we going to continue to do more?
03:05:27 I hope so.
03:05:28 And I think this administration will doesn't look at ways
03:05:31 that we can find money in the budget to make sure that we
03:05:34 protect those parks that we currently have, maintain them,
03:05:36 and expand them and make them better as we go along.
03:05:40 I have nothing further to say.
03:05:42 I will ask Mr. Reddick if he will take the resolution number
03:05:45 58 to go forward unless there's any other comments or
03:05:48 questions.
03:05:51 I apologize, Mrs. Capin, did you have something?
03:05:53 >>YVONNE CAPIN: Yes, I do.
03:05:55 We have, again, an opportunity to move forward.
03:05:58 We checked the investment.
03:05:59 We studied it.
03:06:02 It is definitely an investment in this city, as my
03:06:06 colleagues said.
03:06:07 And I wanted to say that what I said, that I didn't get an
03:06:13 answer to, was when I requested about telephone Ballast
03:06:18 Point, and the issue with parking, and how to get there.
03:06:25 We got 23 acres here.
03:06:26 How is that going to work?
03:06:40 I'm sorry, I asked it before.
03:06:42 >>HARRY COHEN: I have been working on this Ballast Point
03:06:47 thing with Tom haul.
03:06:49 The parking --
03:06:51 >>YVONNE CAPIN: I want to know how we are going to do this.
03:06:53 >>HARRY COHEN: Oh, how it's going to work here?
03:06:57 Got it.
03:06:57 >>BOB McDONAUGH: Do the ability to park -- if you look at
03:07:09 the plans on the north end and the south end of the
03:07:11 property.
03:07:12 And so, yes, we believe there is adequate parking.
03:07:18 Part of the issue with Ballast Point is the fact it's
03:07:21 located on a very narrow road.
03:07:23 And when that small parking lot fills up, you have people
03:07:25 parking on both sides of the street.
03:07:27 And we get many complaints generally from the same side
03:07:32 people who live in that immediate neighborhood are not very
03:07:34 happy with it.
03:07:35 >>YVONNE CAPIN: Very popular place.
03:07:38 >>BOB McDONAUGH: This is a different geometry and different
03:07:41 road network serving it.
03:07:42 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Are you satisfied with that answer? Would
03:07:45 you like any other questions?
03:07:47 >>YVONNE CAPIN: Yeah.
03:07:48 Well, when I mentioned MacFarlane point, it's almost 37
03:07:53 acres, and plenty of parking, and it gets used all the time.
03:07:58 So that was my concern.
03:08:01 This is going to be a very popular place.
03:08:03 As we talked about last week at the CRA meeting about the
03:08:06 events at Curtis Hixon and the issues we have with parking,
03:08:11 and people screaming, calling the police, the two hours in
03:08:15 the parking garage to get out, and so that is a concern.
03:08:21 No doubt this is going to be a star in our park system.
03:08:27 So with that, I am going to go ahead and move forward.
03:08:33 Thank you for letting me have this time.
03:08:34 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Mr. Cohen.
03:08:36 >>HARRY COHEN: I'm glad Councilwoman Montelione will have a
03:08:40 chance to go after me, but I actually took her -- think her
03:08:47 argument earlier goes directly to your question.
03:08:49 Because you have six to eight parks that all concentrated in
03:08:52 an area that's connected by a Riverwalk and trails and all
03:08:55 kinds of other amenities, including, by the way, water taxis
03:08:59 and water access, people can park at one park, and may be
03:09:05 able to utilize lots of different facilities in the
03:09:07 vicinity.
03:09:08 So you actually get the kind of economy of scale that I
03:09:12 oftentimes hear Councilwoman Montelione saying that she
03:09:16 wants to see, where there's all sorts of different -- take
03:09:20 public transportation downtown.
03:09:22 Now you have a huge variety of a men advertise that you can
03:09:24 choose from.
03:09:26 124 did you have anything else, Mrs. Montelione?
03:09:29 >>LISA MONTELIONE: You mean park at one restaurant bar and
03:09:31 walk to another one?
03:09:36 Because we had that little talk about parking for bars and
03:09:40 restaurants in certain neighborhoods.
03:09:43 You know, since we were talking about Ballast Point and
03:09:47 what's being done there, maybe somebody can tell me what's
03:09:49 going to happen at Forest Hills once the flooding issue is
03:09:53 addressed by the stormwater project to fix the racquetball
03:10:01 court, or to restore the baseball, or basketball.
03:10:08 Because I don't have than the constituents who have been the
03:10:11 luxury of time or even to be involved in government.
03:10:15 The constituents in that neighborhood don't contact council
03:10:18 members.
03:10:21 They don't call the press or the news.
03:10:26 They sometimes don't have a voice.
03:10:29 Because you talk about the income of people who live in the
03:10:33 area of Julian B. Lane.
03:10:35 Look at the income of the people who live around West Park.
03:10:46 Look at Copeland.
03:10:47 I mean I'm glad Copeland was built.
03:10:51 The distance between the parks in areas whereby they don't
03:10:54 have cars to drive to, because they can't afford them, is
03:11:00 great.
03:11:03 So if we get answers for how Ballast Point's parking problem
03:11:07 is going to be fixed, I would love 206 answers for how basic
03:11:10 amenities at some of my parks are going to be fixed because
03:11:13 I don't seem to get it.
03:11:15 No reflection on you, Mr. Baird, you have done as best a job
03:11:18 as you can, and we spent a lot of quality time together on
03:11:22 the phone.
03:11:23 You have shown me all of the requests that you have put in
03:11:28 on the system, those repair requests are in the system, you
03:11:32 have shown them to me, but yet they don't get done.
03:11:39 I'm at a loss as to why the basic amenities -- we had a park
03:11:46 in East Tampa that we had to practically call in the calvary
03:11:49 to go fix it because the conditions were so bad.
03:11:52 With rats and mildew, and I mean all kind of stuff.
03:11:59 And $40 million -- I'm not saying don't improve the park.
03:12:03 It's there.
03:12:06 We should make good use of it.
03:12:09 But $40 million on one park, when we have so many other use
03:12:17 needs in the city is just way too much.
03:12:19 And I wish we had the problems that you have of overuse.
03:12:23 And be Mr. Suarez said he's got three parks in his own
03:12:28 neighborhood.
03:12:28 Look at the size of district 7, and I have got 6.
03:12:33 Seven if you include the pool.
03:12:36 Or the baseball field.
03:12:39 That's all it is, is a baseball field.
03:12:42 So, you know, three parks in one neighborhood.
03:12:45 That's great.
03:12:47 And the expanse of district 7 we have got 6.
03:12:52 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Any other comments or questions? Mr.
03:12:56 Reddick.
03:12:57 >>FRANK REDDICK: Move the resolution.
03:12:59 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Second by Mr. Miranda.
03:13:01 All in favor of that motion?
03:13:03 Any opposed?
03:13:03 >>LISA MONTELIONE: Opposed.
03:13:12 124 and number 58 is taken care much.
03:13:18 Number 59.
03:13:20 Motion by Mr. Reddick.
03:13:22 Second by Mr. Miranda.
03:13:23 All in favor are? Any opposed?
03:13:25 >>LISA MONTELIONE: No.
03:13:26 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Item number 60.
03:13:27 >>FRANK REDDICK: Move resolution item number 60.
03:13:31 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Second by Mr. Miranda.
03:13:33 All in favor are? Any opposed?
03:13:35 >>LISA MONTELIONE: No.
03:13:36 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Thank you very much.
03:13:38 Okay.
03:13:39 Let's go back to our regular part of our agenda.
03:13:42 I want to go back to our 10:30 hearings, which of course
03:13:46 it's in and out 3:14 p.m.
03:13:48 Item number --
03:13:52 >>FRANK REDDICK: 616 is just a resolution.
03:13:54 >>MIKE SUAREZ: I think we passed it.
03:13:56 >>FRANK REDDICK: Oh, did we?
03:13:59 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Yes.
03:13:59 I was going to suggest we do the rest of those hearings
03:14:02 which are three left on those.
03:14:03 And then go back to the rest of our hearings.
03:14:06 We have the rest of our committee reports -- or staff
03:14:09 reports, because Mrs. Duncan is going to do three of those
03:14:12 and have her come on up here.
03:14:15 To be reminded, the next hearings we have, numbers 55
03:14:19 through 57 are public hearings.
03:14:22 Those require people to be sworn in.
03:14:25 Anyone that would like to speak on item 55 through 57,
03:14:28 please stand and be sworn at this time.
03:14:29 (Oath administered by clerk.)
03:14:32 >> Staff, number 55.
03:14:49 >>MARTIN SHELBY: Mr. Chairman?
03:14:51 Number 55 is a review hearing, and it is a third party
03:14:57 review.
03:14:58 I have passed out to you the order of business that is
03:15:05 suggested that City Council follows regarding this.
03:15:08 You have done the first two items already.
03:15:10 I ask that you receive and file any ex parte written
03:15:13 documents on this one just so it in the record.
03:15:15 It know you did it earlier.
03:15:17 >>MIKE SUAREZ: If I could have a motion to receive and
03:15:19 file.
03:15:19 >> So moved.
03:15:20 >> Second.
03:15:20 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Motion by Mr. Cohen.
03:15:22 Second from Mr. Reddick.
03:15:23 All in favor of that motion?
03:15:27 >>MARTIN SHELBY: I am going to provide you the standard of
03:15:31 review under 27-61 J-2.
03:15:36 A hearing before City Council in reviewing a board decision
03:15:38 in this case as the Variance Review Board, City Council
03:15:41 shall apply de novo standard of review and shall not be
03:15:44 limited in its review to that information, documentation or
03:15:48 evidence upon which the board based its determination.
03:15:51 City Council shall follow all applicable ordinances in
03:15:54 arriving at its decision and may receive new evidence.
03:15:57 City Council after reviewing the decision of the board and
03:16:00 hearing evidence and testimony may either affirm the board's
03:16:04 decision, may remand the matter back to the board for
03:16:07 further proceedings with direction on how the board failed
03:16:09 to comply with the standard of the code, or may overturn the
03:16:12 decision of the board.
03:16:14 If the petition is remanded back to the board, then the
03:16:17 board shall only take action based upon the direction from
03:16:21 the City Council indicating how the board failed to comply
03:16:24 with the applicable standards -- applicable code standards.
03:16:28 I believe if there are any speakers here who are speaking at
03:16:35 the direction of a party who intends to speak, would you
03:16:37 please indicate that to me?
03:16:39 Otherwise -- okay, you are the original applicant.
03:16:42 And I believe that the petitioner seeking review is
03:16:47 represented by counsel.
03:16:49 Mr. Chairman, I am done with number 4.
03:16:52 And I believe we are prepared to go forward with number 5.
03:16:55 >>REBECCA KERT: Legal department.
03:16:58 You are here for a review hearing.
03:17:02 >>MIKE SUAREZ: I apologize.
03:17:03 Yes, ma'am?
03:17:06 I believe we just did the swearing-in of everyone.
03:17:09 Thank you.
03:17:09 >>REBECCA KERT: You are here for hearing on petition of
03:17:13 review for a decision from your Variance Review Board, the
03:17:16 property which is the subject of the petition.
03:17:18 It's 510 south Oregon Avenue.
03:17:20 The request for variance to review the north side yard from
03:17:24 7 feet to 4 feet and the rear yard the from 20 feet to zero
03:17:28 feet for an existing accessory structure, and the purpose as
03:17:32 stated was the existing structure.
03:17:34 The board approved the variance request stipulating that the
03:17:37 hardship criteria in section 27-08 has been met, and TV
03:17:45 petitioner for review the not the -- this is a third-party
03:17:50 appeal.
03:17:50 I am going to hand this out so you have for your easy
03:17:54 reference 27-08, the five criteria. The five criteria are
03:18:01 what you use to consider whether or not the variance has
03:18:04 been demonstrated that there is a practical difficulty or
03:18:06 unnecessary hardship and that the request ensures the public
03:18:11 health, safety and general welfare.
03:18:26 >>ERIC COTTON: Land Development Coordination.
03:18:27 Very quickly, what was presented at the variance review
03:18:30 board at their hearing.
03:18:31 Again, the board heard this case back in November.
03:18:42 The property in question, Mrs. Kert did make a comment, the
03:18:49 applicant did request a variance that was approved by the
03:18:54 Variance Review Board.
03:19:00 This is the existing structure, accessory structure in the
03:19:03 rear.
03:19:04 The board reviewed the case under the hardship that existed
03:19:06 and approved the request.
03:19:09 Any questions regarding chapter 27?
03:19:12 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Any councilmen have been questions about
03:19:15 chapter 27?
03:19:17 Okay, thank you.
03:19:22 I believe at this time the petitioner would be allowed to
03:19:25 speak.
03:19:26 Is that correct, Mr. Shelby?
03:19:28 >>MARTIN SHELBY: The original applicant at this point, I
03:19:33 believe, would be the --
03:19:36 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Wouldn't the petitioner asking for the
03:19:39 review the third party?
03:19:40 Or am I incorrect?
03:19:42 >>MARTIN SHELBY: At this point -- and I believe Mrs. Kert
03:19:44 and I had the opportunity to discuss this -- because the
03:19:46 original applicant made the original presentation before the
03:19:48 Variance Review Board, I thought the posture should be ton
03:19:52 know at least from her respect what was discussed and what
03:19:56 the decision was and what their position is.
03:19:59 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Ma'am?
03:20:01 Sorry.
03:20:04 You have been here for a long time and I apologize to all
03:20:07 the members of the public that were here for those hearings.
03:20:11 Thankfully we got to our 10:30.
03:20:13 Before you start, yes, sir.
03:20:14 >>MARTIN SHELBY: Just so we are clearly for the record I
03:20:18 would appreciate if council would make a motion to accept
03:20:21 the approval of the order of business so it becomes part of
03:20:24 the record that council did have it before them. This is
03:20:26 the order of business we have chosen to follow.
03:20:29 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Motion by Mr. Reddick.
03:20:31 Second by Mr. Cohen.
03:20:32 All in favor of that motion indicate by saying aye.
03:20:35 Any opposed?
03:20:35 Thank you.
03:20:35 >> On November 10th --
03:20:41 >>MIKE SUAREZ: For the record if you could state your name.
03:20:42 >> My name is Shelly bridgewell.
03:20:46 On November 10, 2015, we applied for a variance for the
03:20:51 existing structure. This is reduce the north side yard from
03:20:54 7 feet to 4 and the rear yard from 20 to zero for existing
03:20:58 structure.
03:21:00 The structures include the main home.
03:21:06 The variance to be approved, to provide competent evidence,
03:21:10 and meet certain criteria, and we were granted approval for
03:21:13 our variance request.
03:21:15 By unanimous decision by the Variance Review Board.
03:21:19 As stated in the approval letter by the VRB the approval,
03:21:23 quickly, the variance requested and does not release you
03:21:27 from compliance of any other city codes.
03:21:30 What this means is if we wanted to do anything with the
03:21:32 property, this did not exempt us from getting permits and
03:21:36 other things, any changes that we wanted.
03:21:40 This is strictly just existing structures only.
03:21:44 I believe it's important to bring up because when the
03:21:50 petitioner brought up his objection at the last meeting he
03:21:52 said, quote, I don't understand the need for variance
03:21:55 finance there aren't going to be any changes to the
03:21:57 property."
03:21:58 I think it's just as important today for me to reiterate and
03:22:02 be clear that the application is just for existing
03:22:05 structures only.
03:22:07 These structures are currently existing.
03:22:09 They are there.
03:22:10 And they have been there for almost 100 years.
03:22:15 That's all.
03:22:15 >>MIKE SUAREZ: That's perfectly fine.
03:22:18 Is there any question of the original applicant?
03:22:21 Okay.
03:22:22 Thank you very much.
03:22:28 I know how these things go sometimes.
03:22:30 Now the petitioner seeking review.
03:22:34 >> Good afternoon.
03:22:36 Elise, 100 South Ashley, Tampa, representing the
03:22:43 petitioners.
03:22:44 Just some housekeeping before we get started with the
03:22:45 presentation, things that we will be referring to it that
03:22:49 happened on the record.
03:22:50 If I may, I am going to present the DVD from the variance
03:22:54 review board as well as copy of the transcripts from the
03:22:57 original DVD, some things we are going to put a copy for
03:23:02 each of you as well as public pictures that may be referred
03:23:04 to in rebuttal.
03:23:06 >>MIKE SUAREZ: If I can get a motion to receive and file
03:23:15 those documents.
03:23:16 I have a motion by Mr. Cohen.
03:23:17 Did I hear a second from Mr. Reddick?
03:23:22 Yes.
03:23:22 All in favor of that motion please indicate by saying aye.
03:23:24 Any opposed?
03:23:25 Thank you.
03:23:25 >> There is a variety of hardships that you have to show and
03:23:54 one that it is a unique hardship not separate and common
03:23:57 with others.
03:23:58 In the transcript that I provided you, there's a general
03:24:01 discussion -- I won't go through it word for word -- but it
03:24:04 talks about the fact that this property is similar to other
03:24:06 properties situated and that they were going to maintain
03:24:09 what's existing on that property.
03:24:13 This is just the same thing that Eric showed you, a little
03:24:16 bit closer.
03:24:17 This is the second hearing.
03:24:19 You can see that this area, this area and this area, they
03:24:22 all have areas where in the development pattern, these are
03:24:29 nonconforming uses.
03:24:36 TFR Florida Supreme Court said a prerequisite for the
03:24:39 granting of a hardship variance is the presence of an
03:24:42 exceptional and unique hardship to that specific parcel and
03:24:47 not shared by property in that area.
03:24:53 We don't believe the unique and singular hardship criteria
03:24:56 has been met.
03:24:57 More than that, though, there isn't an existing hardship.
03:25:04 Usually someone comes to you and says, I would like to do
03:25:06 this and I would like to you grant a variance.
03:25:08 There are hundreds and thousands of existing developments
03:25:11 right now in the City of Tampa that are legal nonconforming.
03:25:15 Your code specifically says that if you have a legal
03:25:22 nonconforming structure, you can leave it in place unless
03:25:25 one of three things happens.
03:25:27 The first thing is there's a substantial improvement to
03:25:29 bring it up to code.
03:25:30 And the second is if there's a casualty or flowed and it's
03:25:33 wiped out, then you have the responsibility under our code
03:25:36 to build it to today's standards.
03:25:38 That's the intent.
03:25:39 So right now it's simply a legal nonconforming use.
03:25:45 Finally, there's no current hardship.
03:25:48 If you look at the transcript they've provided to you, and
03:25:51 there's a tab for the specific language I would like to call
03:25:54 your attention to.
03:25:55 Mr. Patelli, who I believe is a co-applicant or was also
03:25:59 there on behalf of the applicant at the prior VRB hearing,
03:26:03 specifically said there's no hardship per se today, it's
03:26:07 only a hardship of that would arise if there was a future
03:26:11 right -- and then he goes on, but one of the board members,
03:26:15 Long, said potential future hardship?
03:26:18 And he said, correct.
03:26:20 So I understand -- and they want to preserve the house.
03:26:29 It's a lovely house and they have divided it into
03:26:31 apartments, situated on a lovely lot.
03:26:33 But there is no hardship right now.
03:26:36 If a hurricane comes in, they can come before you with
03:26:38 similar plans and show you why they can't meet the code's
03:26:42 requirements at that time.
03:26:42 But right now, it's simply a legal nonconforming house, very
03:26:46 similar to those that are in the neighborhood.
03:26:49 So we would ask essentially that you reverse the decision of
03:26:55 the Variance Review Board and deny the variance.
03:27:00 I am here for any questions.
03:27:01 I could go on and on.
03:27:02 But don't want that.
03:27:09 It seems like -- I understand what the intent is to invest
03:27:17 something that you don't want to lose, but it's going to be
03:27:20 tied to the existing site plan, and it has been for two
03:27:22 years.
03:27:22 Even if you say yes, we will give you the variance.
03:27:25 They are going to have to keep coming back to you every two
03:27:28 years to renew, and I am just not sure that's the precedent
03:27:32 that City Council wants to begin with legal nonconforming
03:27:35 structures.
03:27:36 Thank you for your time.
03:27:37 Do you have any questions for myself or for Mr. McKenna?
03:27:40 >>HARRY COHEN: Do any council members have questions right
03:27:42 now?
03:27:43 Councilwoman Montelione.
03:27:44 >>LISA MONTELIONE: I'm just curious as to why your client
03:27:50 is objecting.
03:27:51 >> Certainly.
03:27:52 >> Well.
03:27:58 >>HARRY COHEN: We need your name and address.
03:27:59 >> Edmund McKenna. 505 South Oregon.
03:28:05 First thing, I am a lawyer.
03:28:06 I am not a land use lawyer.
03:28:07 I am not anything like that.
03:28:09 But it's a wrong decision, first of all, because to my mind,
03:28:13 the way it looks, is if it happens to any nonconforming use
03:28:19 in the city is now entitled to a variance to keep in the
03:28:21 place.
03:28:23 And then the other issue is that having gone through this
03:28:26 process to get here before you, perhaps it's an occupational
03:28:34 hazard being a lawyer, but I would want to know what the
03:28:38 motivation is.
03:28:40 And this property, if you look at the -- I know it's not,
03:28:43 but if it's right on the border of the Hyde Park
03:28:45 architectural district.
03:28:47 If it was on the other side of DeLeon it would be in the
03:28:50 Hyde Park architectural district.
03:28:51 So I think that's a factor.
03:28:55 It's just a wrong decision.
03:28:56 It sets a bad precedent for the city and for other
03:28:59 nonconforming uses because it says any nonconforming use
03:29:03 should be able to continue indefinitely.
03:29:08 I live catercorner across the street.
03:29:10 >> Across the street.
03:29:12 And if I am understanding it's one of those things you said
03:29:14 about precedent.
03:29:16 Every application that the council considers is on its own
03:29:22 merits.
03:29:22 So and especially with variances or waivers are considered.
03:29:32 It's just that case.
03:29:33 So I am not sharing the feeling of precedent with you.
03:29:40 But I am curious, as you say, you are suspicious why they
03:29:49 might want to get this particular setback issue that they
03:29:54 have because the structures are 100 years old.
03:29:56 That's probably why it ended up being that way.
03:29:59 But I am curious, so your concern is solely because that you
03:30:06 feel it's wrong to grant them a variance when there isn't
03:30:12 immediate hardship?
03:30:13 >> I believe that the purpose of the code has been
03:30:19 identified by the Second District Court of Appeals is that
03:30:23 eventually nonconforming uses go away.
03:30:26 That's the point of the code, that at some point in time --
03:30:30 >>LISA MONTELIONE: This is historic property.
03:30:32 It's been there 100 years.
03:30:38 Unless the building burns down, and someone decides not to
03:30:42 rebuild them, and leave it a vacant lot, or something else
03:30:51 to that level of nature happens, this isn't a condition
03:30:57 that's going to be created by somebody else, it's one that
03:31:01 exists because it's so old.
03:31:03 >> And again, I'm not a land use lawyer by any stretch of
03:31:06 the imagination.
03:31:07 But now they can come bulldoze the house and build whatever
03:31:12 they want within the variance?
03:31:14 >>LISA MONTELIONE: It's a little more complicated than
03:31:16 that.
03:31:16 And staff has to be careful in testifying or not testifying.
03:31:20 Rebecca Kert is like leaning over there saying watch me.
03:31:28 But one of the staff members can explain that.
03:31:30 I mean, I hesitate to put on the record what I know about
03:31:35 our process.
03:31:35 >> Land coordination.
03:31:40 You are talking about a nonconforming structure not being
03:31:43 used.
03:31:44 What's before you all tonight or today is the structure
03:31:47 itself, not the use of the property.
03:31:53 The variance that expired, the two year expiration date is
03:31:57 you apply for a variance.
03:31:58 You have two years to put it into effect.
03:32:00 If you don't put it into effect it expires.
03:32:03 It's already technically in effect because the structures
03:32:05 are there.
03:32:09 If the structures were to be bulldozed tomorrow, they could
03:32:13 go back to the same footprint that's shown on the site plan
03:32:15 approved by the Variance Review Board.
03:32:17 That's the limitation of development on that site.
03:32:21 At this point.
03:32:21 >>LISA MONTELIONE: And if you could put on the record what
03:32:24 process does it do, does the applicant have to go through in
03:32:27 order to bulldoze a 100-year-old property?
03:32:31 >>ERIC COTTON: Historic preservation, because it's the
03:32:33 division to get a permit through, they would have to go
03:32:38 through permitting to rebuild whatever they rebuild here.
03:32:41 >>LISA MONTELIONE: And it would have to meet with all the
03:32:43 other codes and regulations?
03:32:46 >>ERIC COTTON: Within the City of Tampa, corrects.
03:32:47 >>LISA MONTELIONE: And be able to build back the same
03:32:50 footprint?
03:32:52 >>ERIC COTTON: Correct.
03:32:52 >>LISA MONTELIONE: Thank you.
03:32:54 There's a statement in here that's made by Mrs. Owen from
03:32:59 the original hearing.
03:33:08 It says live next door, they own the house right next to the
03:33:12 property, they are concerned about flooding, and it says
03:33:19 highlighted, and not allowed to add any other structures but
03:33:24 fish they just make it a cement parking lot.
03:33:28 Does this variance, Eric, have anything to do with the
03:33:34 parking lot or anything that's not a vertical structure?
03:33:38 >>ERIC COTTON: I'm not sure what they were referring to at
03:33:40 that moment.
03:33:42 The applicant has the site plan that's before City Council
03:33:44 the same one that was hear for the Variance Review Board.
03:33:48 If council were to uphold the Variance Review Board's
03:33:52 determination that's what they have on the property.
03:33:54 If they want to put a parking lot on that property they have
03:33:56 to go through permitting, take into account drainage, green
03:34:00 space.
03:34:01 >>LISA MONTELIONE: But it doesn't have anything tore do
03:34:02 with a parking lot it could colt no.
03:34:05 >>LISA MONTELIONE: So just wanted to clear that up.
03:34:07 That's something that I saw.
03:34:07 >> I think the concern was that if they brought back the
03:34:12 same footprint which brings more parking which causes --
03:34:19 >>LISA MONTELIONE: And again I think he can address that.
03:34:23 I don't want to.
03:34:26 Rebecca would be standing up.
03:34:27 >> Any development on that property would have to be done in
03:34:31 accordance with the RM-24 standard.
03:34:33 So when they would go through permitting or be reviewed at
03:34:38 that point, so whether you can get more units on that
03:34:42 property, I don't know offhand.
03:34:43 Butt if were somebody were to apply inform that they would
03:34:47 have to Goff through review.
03:34:48 >>LISA MONTELIONE: Thank you very much.
03:34:50 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Any other questions of petitioner or staff
03:34:54 before we go forward?
03:34:56 I have one question, and this is to the original applicant,
03:34:59 if I could.
03:35:01 You said that the property is about 100 years old.
03:35:04 >> 1918.
03:35:10 >>MIKE SUAREZ: And when you bought it, it was where it is
03:35:13 now?
03:35:14 >> Exactly as it is.
03:35:15 >>MIKE SUAREZ: What was your original reason for going to
03:35:18 the Variance Review Board?
03:35:21 >> I had never heard of investing in property before and we
03:35:25 were in conversation with somebody who is involved with the
03:35:27 Hyde Park Preservation Society, and she just mentioned it
03:35:30 might be something to be want to look into.
03:35:33 I guess it's like health insurance, you know, you are
03:35:37 proactive about something, give you peace of mind, protects
03:35:41 your investment.
03:35:42 We know that we could apply for this retroactively if
03:35:45 something were to happen, but we felt that provides the
03:35:51 opportunity and service to existing structures, and took the
03:35:55 opportunity to go through that.
03:35:58 Just mostly, you know, it's investments, and the building
03:36:04 setbacks do not conform with today's coding and that could
03:36:07 be a concern finance something ever were to happen, and
03:36:12 without looking at the site plan I'm pretty comfort football
03:36:15 we had to rebuild, if there was a catastrophe.
03:36:17 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Thank you.
03:36:19 Any other questions from council before I go to the public?
03:36:23 Okay.
03:36:23 Is there anyone in the public that would like to speak about
03:36:25 this particular hearing, number 55?
03:36:28 55?
03:36:30 I see no one.
03:36:31 I have a motion to close from Mrs. Montelione.
03:36:34 Excuse me, Mr. Shelby?
03:36:36 I apologize.
03:36:38 If I can go to the petitioner for rebuttal.
03:36:41 I'm trying to get used to the way this is set up right now.
03:36:43 >> Just a couple of things on some of the things that were
03:36:49 mentioned.
03:36:50 If you go back to the picture, and you look at what happens
03:36:54 if it burns to the ground, it this is a normal size lot.
03:37:01 There is ample opportunity to not only preserve the
03:37:04 character of the new building but to comply with the
03:37:06 setbacks.
03:37:07 So at that time, if they found that they were uniquely
03:37:14 situated or that there was a tree, like it doesn't appear
03:37:16 that there's any trees, it's not particularly situated
03:37:20 property, because of that uniqueness, and I am looking at
03:37:26 this, nor have I heard the VRB for this particular hearing,
03:37:31 so I just ask you while you are talking and making a
03:37:35 decision, think about right now today, unfortunately for the
03:37:41 applicant, they have to show a hardship today, not tomorrow,
03:37:44 not what may happen in the future.
03:37:47 That's just the way the code is written.
03:37:51 We appreciate it.
03:37:51 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Thank you.
03:37:52 The original applicant, do you have any rebuttal, ma'am?
03:37:55 >> Yes.
03:37:59 I guess in terms of the hardship, today it does not meet the
03:38:05 current setback codes.
03:38:09 They were built 100 years ago, and the code was very much
03:38:13 different today.
03:38:13 That's a hardship.
03:38:14 Again, we chose to be proactive in the this process, and
03:38:17 protect our building and property text our asset, and we
03:38:21 hope that nothing will ever come of it, but it is a peace of
03:38:26 mind.
03:38:27 It's just the hardship is -- it's a historical building in
03:38:32 the area that doesn't meet the zoning.
03:38:36 Thank you.
03:38:36 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Now I will entertain a motion to close since
03:38:39 we have already gone to the public and to both parties.
03:38:42 I have a motion by Mr. Miranda.
03:38:43 Second by Mrs. Montelione.
03:38:45 All in favor of that motion?
03:38:48 Any opposed?
03:38:49 What is the pleasure of council?
03:38:50 >> I move to uphold the decision -- [Off microphone.]
03:38:55 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Is there a second to that motion?
03:38:58 >> I'll second it.
03:39:06 >>MARTIN SHELBY: In this case with the petitioner seeking
03:39:09 review, you are actually denying the petitioner's request,
03:39:10 so I am going to ask you to cite section 27-80, the variance
03:39:14 powers, and perhaps make some findings about whether the
03:39:19 original applicant met their burden.
03:39:21 >>LISA MONTELIONE: Okay.
03:39:25 So I would say that the 27-80 letter A, number 4, the
03:39:32 variance is in harmony and serves the general intent and
03:39:35 purpose of the chapter, and the adopted Tampa comprehensive
03:39:39 plan, it's in harmony because it's historic property and
03:39:46 also it reflects the general building character in the
03:39:48 neighborhood which many do not conform with our current code
03:39:53 because of the age of the property.
03:39:59 Number 5, allowing variance will result in substantial
03:40:03 justice being done considering the public benefit intended
03:40:05 by this chapter and individual hardship, the practical
03:40:09 difficulties that would be suffered due to failure of the
03:40:12 board to grant a variance, and I understand that Basil -- we
03:40:19 are having trouble with names today -- Basil.
03:40:23 I understand her point that there's plenty of land to
03:40:26 situate that house should something terrible happen to it.
03:40:30 However, the historic pattern of where that house is would
03:40:35 not be by moving the rest of the house and meeting with
03:40:41 current code if something were to destroy the property.
03:40:43 >> Can I ask Councilwoman why she didn't state number the?
03:40:54 >>LISA MONTELIONE: I will state number 2, the hardship does
03:40:57 not result from the actions of the applicant, hardship or
03:41:01 practical difficulty shall not justify a variance.
03:41:03 The applicant did nothing to create the circumstance in
03:41:08 which she's seeking relief.
03:41:10 >>MIKE SUAREZ: We have a motion from Mrs. Montelione.
03:41:13 A second from Mr. Cohen.
03:41:14 Any discussion on that motion?
03:41:16 All in favor of that motion please indicate by saying aye.
03:41:19 Any opposed?
03:41:21 Thank you very much.
03:41:23 Thank you for appearing before council.
03:41:25 Okay.
03:41:26 We are on item number 56.
03:41:29 56.
03:41:31 Staff.
03:41:31 >>REBECCA KERT: Legal department.
03:41:39 Item 56 is another petition for review following the
03:41:44 decision of the Variance Review Board.
03:41:46 The address of the subject property is 3703 Henderson
03:41:51 Boulevard, the request to increase the height of the sign
03:41:53 from 20 feet to 35 feet and the square footage of the sign
03:41:57 from 50 feet to 63 feet and to increase the number of
03:42:00 free-standing signs from one to two.
03:42:03 The purpose was stated to remove the existing nonconforming
03:42:05 sign and install a new sign.
03:42:09 The Variance Review Board denied the request finding the
03:42:13 hardship criteria was not met and the petitioner for review
03:42:16 is James Encke, and they are the original applicant.
03:42:21 >> Good afternoon.
03:42:29 Eric Cotton, Land Development Coordination.
03:42:31 Again to follow what Rebecca said, the board reviewed this
03:42:35 case back in March and denied the request 4-3.
03:42:43 This is an Henderson Boulevard.
03:42:46 The you can see it there
03:42:51 I will show you the site plan.
03:42:54 The sign in question is right there.
03:43:06 Can you see it?
03:43:07 >> Can you zoom in on there?
03:43:09 There you go.
03:43:10 >>MIKE SUAREZ: So that circled area --
03:43:26 >> Is where the sign is located. This is what the sign
03:43:28 currently looks like.
03:43:35 We have better photos than this.
03:43:36 I believe it's a steel sign.
03:43:41 And another view.
03:43:44 And this is the sign he wants to replace it with, which
03:43:47 again is taller than the sign that's currently on the site,
03:43:51 more than allowed by code.
03:43:53 It's bringing the height down but more than allowed by code
03:43:57 under the amendment.
03:44:01 Does City Council have any questions?
03:44:03 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Any questions?
03:44:05 Okay.
03:44:12 Petitioner?
03:44:12 >> Good afternoon.
03:44:15 My name is James Encke.
03:44:20 At this time I would like to present to council, if I could.
03:44:25 Some photos of what the sign, the old sign compared to the
03:44:29 new sign.
03:44:30 Also I would like to turn in the case under the VRB.
03:44:37 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Motion from Mrs. Capin, second by Mr.
03:44:42 Reddick to receive the documents.
03:44:45 All in favor?
03:44:46 Opposed?
03:44:47 Thank you, sir.
03:44:48 Continue.
03:44:48 >> I would like to let council know that I am not here to
03:44:52 ask for any money.
03:44:53 I'm actually here to ask for your approval.
03:45:00 I'm retired Air Force master sergeant for 20 years.
03:45:03 The last three years I have owned the City Side lounge on
03:45:09 3703 Henderson Boulevard.
03:45:15 And one of the biggest things as a business owner is to
03:45:17 advertise your business to let people know who you are and
03:45:20 where you are.
03:45:21 The current sign, yes, the prior owners' sign.
03:45:24 What I try to do about a year ago was to revamp my business,
03:45:30 make it known that, hey, look, I am here, this is where I am
03:45:33 at.
03:45:34 And use all kind of avenues to advertise, but there's
03:45:38 nothing like advertising where your business is at.
03:45:40 Telling people who you are and what you plan to do.
03:45:44 Now, according to Mr. Cotton and the other lady who was here
03:45:48 earlier, representing all the items that we are trying to
03:45:51 apply, or request for.
03:45:53 The VRB board thought it was too much, why are you having
03:45:58 too much stuff going on?
03:46:00 Their biggest issue that we had was the height requirement.
03:46:04 Now, if I could just take some of these things one by one, I
03:46:07 think it will help alleviate a lot of issues.
03:46:10 First, allowing for one additional sign.
03:46:13 Currently, there are two signs on this property.
03:46:18 My sign and the sign of Napa which shares the property Val
03:46:23 with me.
03:46:28 If I could.
03:46:33 Right here is our sign.
03:46:36 Over on this side is Napa's sign.
03:46:39 So we are far away from each other as far as the signs go.
03:46:42 Now, the other issue is, my intention is to take down my
03:46:47 sign.
03:46:47 Now, the hardship that I have with my sign, like any other
03:46:51 business around the local area, my sign is sheet metal,
03:46:55 double sided sheet metal, 14 by 14 sheet metal sign.
03:47:00 I cannot arbitrarily put the base oft and put a new face on
03:47:03 like other businesses can do that.
03:47:05 I can't do that.
03:47:06 If I have to change my sign it would have to come down. If
03:47:09 they come down, then that means I have to resort to current
03:47:13 standards.
03:47:15 This results in the second hardship of this.
03:47:28 This is the existing support structures for the sign.
03:47:30 They are steel i-beams that go 60 feet from the ground into
03:47:34 the air.
03:47:35 They go, I am estimating, about 15 feet into the ground.
03:47:39 Now, what's holding that into the ground is concrete.
03:47:48 You are taking concrete going straight into the ground.
03:47:53 I'm a small business.
03:47:54 I am not like Papa Johns.
03:47:56 I am not like any other business.
03:47:58 I'm a mom and pop shop business.
03:48:00 I can't change where this sign is located.
03:48:04 I can't move it back 15 feet without causing huge economic
03:48:08 hardship on my business.
03:48:11 I cook.
03:48:13 I can't do that.
03:48:15 Which brings me back to the second one.
03:48:17 Requesting the 15 feet to 3 feet.
03:48:24 My intent with my new sign, the one that Mr. Cotton has
03:48:29 shown you, this right here, this sign was designed ton fit
03:48:36 in between the I-beams.
03:48:39 They come out in the shape of an I.
03:48:41 That sign will fit in between those I-beams adding support.
03:48:45 Now, where will this sign fit?
03:48:59 I'm not really sure if I can get a picture of this.
03:49:02 Right on this here, there is an I beam lattice that goes
03:49:07 straight across that adds support to the I beam.
03:49:09 That sign is designed to fit on top of that.
03:49:13 What also makes this sign very difficult to change is -- I
03:49:20 don't know if you can see it on this here.
03:49:22 These I-beams, I can't go any lower than what the sign is
03:49:29 designed to fit at.
03:49:30 Unfortunately, Dr. Long who was at the VRB meeting stated
03:49:40 her principal argument was -- and I will paraphrase -- the
03:49:43 sign is going to come downing eventually anyway, and when it
03:49:47 does, he will be forced to put it at 20 feet.
03:49:50 Unfortunately, I did not say where the sign went.
03:49:55 This sign has been up there for 15 years, all right?
03:49:58 I have only owned the business for three years.
03:50:00 I am trying to increase revenue for my business.
03:50:04 This is an LGBT bar in South Tampa.
03:50:07 It is the last LGTB bar in South Tampa.
03:50:11 When I first started this business there were 7 bars in
03:50:15 north and South Tampa not including Ybor.
03:50:17 They are gone.
03:50:18 I'm the last bar.
03:50:20 I'm trying to reinvent or reencourage people to come back to
03:50:25 South Tampa, get them from Ybor, help raise money for myself
03:50:29 and for the local community.
03:50:33 And at that point, I thank you very much for your time.
03:50:36 And I hope -- oh, by the way, last week was my birthday so
03:50:40 this would be an awesome birthday present.
03:50:44 (Laughter).
03:50:44 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Happy birthday.
03:50:45 Any questions from council, the applicant or petitioner?
03:50:48 >>HARRY COHEN: Can you walk me through how you say that
03:50:57 this is less square footage than --
03:51:03 >> Than the current sign up there now is 14 by 14 sheet
03:51:08 metal sign double sided, 163 square feet in total but for
03:51:13 that sign.
03:51:13 The new sign I have is 7 by 9 feet which would be 5 square
03:51:19 feet visible.
03:51:21 Now, current standard if we go by what you have right now is
03:51:26 50 feet.
03:51:26 I'm asking for an increase of 13 feet square feet for visual
03:51:32 space.
03:51:33 >> Why?
03:51:34 >> It's the way the posts are utilized.
03:51:38 I can't go any lower than -- if I go any lower than 35 feet,
03:51:44 anything coming from the Kennedy side Henderson coming down
03:51:48 will not -- because Square One Burger fits and where these
03:51:53 sign fits.
03:51:54 Square One Burgers is right next door to me.
03:51:56 If I go any lower, ain't nobody going to see me on that
03:52:01 side.
03:52:01 If you come from the opposite side, you are going to see it.
03:52:04 But nothing will be from the other side.
03:52:05 If you keep it at 35 feet, it's going to be an equal height
03:52:09 with Square One Burgers.
03:52:11 Right now the sign at its height is 609 feet in the air.
03:52:15 I am requesting to bring it down.
03:52:17 Unfortunately, because of how these preexisting posts fit, I
03:52:22 can't go any lower, based on how I design this new sign.
03:52:27 Now --
03:52:30 >>HARRY COHEN: How does the height affect the overall
03:52:32 square footage of the sign face?
03:52:37 I mean, couldn't you have a 60-foot sign at the height that
03:52:40 you are proposing?
03:52:42 I guess that's what I don't understand.
03:52:43 >> Based on -- right here.
03:52:54 There we go. This is Square One Burger sign.
03:52:57 My sign will fit really right about here.
03:53:02 When all that's done.
03:53:04 If I go any lower, nothing -- these posts coming in, that is
03:53:10 the angle.
03:53:11 I can't change that.
03:53:12 I can't make it any wider.
03:53:13 I can't pick up this post and move them further back, or
03:53:17 bring them into conformity.
03:53:19 They are stuck there.
03:53:20 I can't move it.
03:53:21 I don't have the money or the financial resources to do
03:53:23 this.
03:53:24 So I am trying to utilize preexisting structures.
03:53:27 >>YVONNE CAPIN: Exactly.
03:53:31 You are trying to use preexisting structures.
03:53:33 So you are saying that the size of the sign is because of
03:53:35 the width?
03:53:37 >> Yes.
03:53:40 It gets narrower and narrower.
03:53:43 >>YVONNE CAPIN: If it gets narrower, why is the sign
03:53:46 bigger?
03:53:48 >> No, no, no.
03:53:49 The existing sign is there right now.
03:53:51 It's 14 by 14.
03:53:52 This fits on the outside like a sandwich.
03:53:55 So what I am trying to do is take the new signs and put it
03:53:58 inside the support structure.
03:54:00 So it's coming from a 14 by 14 to 7 by 9.
03:54:03 So it's making it smaller.
03:54:10 It comes down to height.
03:54:11 And that's what the VRB board's primary concern was.
03:54:16 Why can't you get any lower?
03:54:17 I can't get any lower.
03:54:18 Now, I did invest in the sign prior to knowing all the facts
03:54:24 about putting up a brand new sign.
03:54:26 Yes that is my fault.
03:54:27 Now, when all is said and done I have two options after this
03:54:33 point.
03:54:34 I can either leave the sign up there, which is an eyesore,
03:54:37 the way it is, and I continue.
03:54:40 Unfortunately, I am not Salvador Dali.
03:54:45 I can't paint very well.
03:54:47 So way did in order to make it bigger and brighter and fit
03:54:52 into what all the other signs are in the area, I had one
03:54:54 developed.
03:54:56 And the sign that you see -- where did it go?
03:55:07 And this was a result of the sign I had made.
03:55:12 It was designed to fit within the I-beams at a certain
03:55:15 height.
03:55:15 And it just won't go any lower.
03:55:17 Without causing more economic hardship on more part.
03:55:23 Cohen I really don't want to belabor the point given the
03:55:26 time of the day.
03:55:27 But the height of the sign at least to me is not the
03:55:31 concern.
03:55:31 The concern is that the sign is bigger than the signs that
03:55:36 everybody else is allowed to put up.
03:55:38 And this is a big sign.
03:55:43 It's like putting up a billboard on the street.
03:55:49 You know, I understand you didn't know 63 was too many feet.
03:55:59 I mean, 50 feet single-family the square footage that is
03:56:04 allowed on a new sign.
03:56:05 And to grant this is basically, you know, it just flies in
03:56:11 the face of what we are trying to do in terms of to reduce
03:56:14 the amount of signage throughout the city.
03:56:17 >> If I may point out one item.
03:56:23 There was one group that had initial concern with this
03:56:27 entire process.
03:56:29 And that was the Gulf view Civic Association.
03:56:32 When they initially saw that I was having this done their
03:56:35 biggest concern was its still too big.
03:56:38 But after talking to them, and with in discussions, I told
03:56:41 them what we were doing, what we were planning.
03:56:44 They agreed that, yes, it's still high compared to what the
03:56:48 standards are but it is moving in the right direction.
03:56:50 I am taking down what some people consider an eyesore.
03:56:53 >>HARRY COHEN: So you had a discussion with the Gulf view
03:56:58 Civic Association, got their buy-in on 63 feet sign but
03:57:02 never checked to seek if it was duly allowable by code to go
03:57:05 that big?
03:57:06 >> It was done after the fact, sir.
03:57:08 It was done after the fact once the petitions went out to
03:57:12 notify people about the public hearing.
03:57:21 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Any other questions or comments business
03:57:22 council?
03:57:24 Sir, are you finished with your presentation?
03:57:26 >> Yes, I am.
03:57:27 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Is there anyone in the public that would
03:57:29 like to speak on item number 56?
03:57:33 2016-8-chapter 27.
03:57:44 You had been sworn already?
03:57:45 >> Yes.
03:57:48 Actually, ways here originally.
03:57:51 I have been a patient of the bar for a while.
03:57:55 One thing to know is I am also a Uber customer.
03:58:02 >>MIKE SUAREZ: We need your name for the record.
03:58:04 >> My name is Josh Babaka.
03:58:06 I apologize.
03:58:08 I am a Uber and Lyft customer.
03:58:12 I do not like to drive to the bar.
03:58:14 A lot of times when I have someone picking me up nine out of
03:58:17 ten times they can't find me giving the address.
03:58:20 It's because they actually can't recognize what it is.
03:58:23 They pick me up at city side.
03:58:26 Even when giving someone an address who has a GPS system
03:58:29 with satellite, they can't find it.
03:58:31 So just imagine I'm a consumer who people can't locate the
03:58:37 business.
03:58:37 And that has to affect something.
03:58:41 Yes, when you look at different signage, I understand what
03:58:43 the city is trying to do when it comes to that, but having
03:58:47 visibility as a business and as a brand, it's important.
03:58:51 It increases tax revenue, it increases revenue for staff,
03:58:54 and it increases my ability for my drivers to pick me up.
03:58:59 So another thing to notice, too, is the bar really does a
03:59:05 lot of fundraising for a lot of organizations, a lot of
03:59:09 organizations, Francis house, and they do a lot of good.
03:59:12 And a lot of times when people for these events, they need
03:59:15 to be able to find it.
03:59:17 Being able to find location signs of business is very, very
03:59:20 important.
03:59:20 I really hope that you guys approve this one because it
03:59:23 means a lot.
03:59:24 Thank you.
03:59:24 >> [Off microphone.]
03:59:37 >> Any rebuttal?
03:59:41 I don't think so.
03:59:42 We have a motion and second to close, motion by Mr. Miranda.
03:59:47 All in favor?
03:59:48 Any opposed?
03:59:54 Anyone want to take that?
03:59:56 Yay or nay?
04:00:05 Somebody has to speak up.
04:00:12 Feel like it's Ferris Bueller's day off.
04:00:15 >>YVONNE CAPIN: I know the sign is very large. Larger than
04:00:20 most.
04:00:34 Go ahead.
04:00:34 >>LISA MONTELIONE: Nobody is -- (Laughter)
04:00:46 I'm sorry.
04:00:48 Let me get my sheet out here.
04:00:53 I will move to overturn the decision of the Variance Review
04:00:55 Board.
04:01:00 This is 13 square foot difference between the allowable and
04:01:07 what he's asking for.
04:01:10 The hardships, I think, were demonstrated in that having a
04:01:16 viable business, to let people know that you are there.
04:01:23 So I would say that with the placement of the building next
04:01:30 door's sign, and the shape of the building next door's sign,
04:01:35 that is one of the reasons why there's a practical
04:01:39 difficulty with conforming with the current sign code.
04:01:44 The other is that the structure that's in place to support
04:01:49 the current sign, it would be a hardship to have of that
04:01:53 structure removed because it's kind of built like a support
04:01:58 to a bridge, the I-beams and the concrete.
04:02:03 It would be very expensive to remove.
04:02:07 So I believe that it meets under section 27-80-A, number 1,
04:02:15 if alleged hardship, difficulties are unique and singular
04:02:19 with respect to the property, that the hardship or practical
04:02:24 difficulty does not result from the actions of the applicant
04:02:26 because the sign structure was already there, and I'm citing
04:02:32 the structure is most of the reason why it makes it
04:02:36 impractical and there's a hardship, and number 5, the
04:02:42 variance will result in substantial justice being done.
04:02:45 >>YVONNE CAPIN: Second.
04:02:48 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Motion from Mrs. Montelione.
04:02:50 A second from Mrs. Capin.
04:02:51 All in favor of that motion please indicate by saying aye.
04:02:54 Any opposed?
04:02:55 >> Aye.
04:02:58 >>THE CLERK: Miranda voting no.
04:02:59 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Thank you.
04:03:01 Okay.
04:03:02 This is our last hearing of the day.
04:03:07 People are happy.
04:03:08 We are too, believe me.
04:03:10 Number 57.
04:03:11 Staff.
04:03:13 Mrs. Moreda.
04:03:13 >>GLORIA MOREDA: Land development.
04:03:15 This is a special use 1 application for a home occupation.
04:03:20 The property is at 4618 west north B street which is an
04:03:27 RM-24 zoning district.
04:03:31 I have a location map in Westshore here to the west.
04:03:36 And north.
04:03:39 It is one of the townhouses that actually fronts on north
04:03:44 "B."
04:03:45 Here is an illustration here.
04:03:51 Proposed location for the home occupation.
04:03:55 The request was denied by myself, the result of the fact
04:04:00 that they are wanting to place the home occupation in their
04:04:03 garage, which is a detached structure.
04:04:06 One of the criteria for home occupation is that it needs to
04:04:11 be in the main house.
04:04:16 The property is a townhouse setting.
04:04:20 It's a row of townhouses and then the row of the connected
04:04:24 garages.
04:04:25 And they are planning to locate this business within the
04:04:28 garage itself of the
04:04:33 I have a photograph here showing the alley where the garage
04:04:41 is at.
04:04:49 Here is the zoning atlas.
04:04:51 I thought it might be helpful to see it.
04:04:54 The property is here.
04:04:55 And there is an alley that runs from north "B" behind the
04:04:58 townhouses that are in this area here.
04:05:03 RM-24.
04:05:06 But in terms of all of their requirements of the home
04:05:09 occupation, they do satisfy the type of business report, I
04:05:14 believe they make candles out of this location.
04:05:19 But they are asking for a waiver to locate in the structure.
04:05:23 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Thank you.
04:05:25 Petitioner.
04:05:26 >> Good afternoon.
04:05:30 Susan Johnson Valez, 607 west Bay Street on behalf of the
04:05:35 applicant and property owners.
04:05:38 Again, as Gloria said, this is an appeal of our special use
04:05:47 application.
04:05:47 We knew we would be coming before you to request this
04:05:50 because of the waiver request.
04:05:51 This special use home occupation could take place within
04:05:55 their primary structure, but they have been using their
04:05:59 garage for this and they would like to continue to use it,
04:06:03 because of that waiver request, we have to come before you
04:06:05 for approval.
04:06:06 We do agree with Mrs. Moreda's finding that we meet every
04:06:10 other criteria for granting this in the code.
04:06:13 And I can go through those in you would like.
04:06:15 But we would like to continue for a couple of reasons.
04:06:18 Number one, as she says, this is a townhouse development, so
04:06:22 we do have neighbors that we share common walls with on
04:06:24 either side.
04:06:25 We feel it would be less disruptive to use in the detached
04:06:31 garage structure than in the house.
04:06:32 The second reason, they have this rather large piece of
04:06:39 equipment here. This is their candle melting vat, I will
04:06:43 call it for lack of a better term.
04:06:45 It is a double broiler so there's no gas.
04:06:47 They plug it in, and it's heated similar to what do you on
04:06:51 your stove but that's a rather large piece of equipment can
04:06:54 get in the way of dinner preparation that goes along in the
04:06:57 house.
04:06:57 And so this is a picture -- this is their work area in their
04:07:09 garage.
04:07:09 You can see the vat and the work.
04:07:12 That's what they would like to include.
04:07:14 Through the big window you can see the primary structure in
04:07:17 pretty close proximity.
04:07:18 Some of you may be familiar with this applicant's need.
04:07:24 They own the Tiffany candle company so you may have seen it
04:07:28 locally around town. This is just a picture of some of
04:07:31 their products there.
04:07:32 Currently in boutiques and local shops, in Dunedin,
04:07:36 Brooksville, Tampa, Lutz, Lakeland, Palm Harbor,
04:07:39 Jacksonville, Winter Park.
04:07:41 They also had a presence there are in Tennessee, Louisiana,
04:07:45 Georgia and California.
04:07:46 So they are a growing business.
04:07:47 They would like to keep it while they are still small within
04:07:50 their home for as long as possible.
04:07:52 And that's the local Junior League holiday market in which
04:08:02 they participate.
04:08:02 >> I'm not sure that's the best finish but go ahead.
04:08:07 >> Especially within me.
04:08:12 (Laughter).
04:08:13 >> So this is what they do.
04:08:15 They have their candle making business and they get orders
04:08:20 from their various customers and with that waiver we would
04:08:24 request approval of the special use.
04:08:27 I would like to say for the record we do have a site plan I
04:08:35 would like to submit for the record that shows in the green
04:08:37 here that space 20 by 20-foot space in the garage where they
04:08:42 would occupy for the candle making.
04:08:44 And then also I have a series of letters of support that we
04:08:48 did have from a few neighbors.
04:08:51 One I would note that Mr. Aaron clamp, 4616 west north "B"
04:08:56 street, the immediately adjacent neighbor, was here for the
04:08:59 morning session but had to leave to go back to work.
04:09:01 We did have a couple of other neighbors, Robert fairer,
04:09:08 north wested "B" street was here but had to leave.
04:09:11 And Melissa Radavich was also here and they had to leave.
04:09:14 So I would like to make that for the record.
04:09:17 So I would like to suggest a site plan and letters of
04:09:20 support and the photographs.
04:09:22 >> [Off microphone.]
04:09:28 >>MIKE SUAREZ: All in favor of that motion signify by
04:09:31 saying aye.
04:09:33 Thank you.
04:09:33 >> I would say that Mr. Meyer was the owner was here.
04:09:39 I will reserve any time for rebuttal.
04:09:41 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Thank you.
04:09:42 Are there any questions from council at this time?
04:09:44 Okay.
04:09:44 Single-family there anyone in the public that would like to
04:09:46 speak on item number 57?
04:09:49 Yes, ma'am, please come to the podium and state your name.
04:09:53 My name is MaryAnne deem.
04:09:56 My husband and I own and reside at 4620 west north "B"
04:10:00 street.
04:10:01 Our townhouse immediately adjoins the petitioner's property
04:10:06 at 4618.
04:10:08 I too have been here for the better part of this day, and
04:10:13 unlike most of the people here, I have not been compensated
04:10:16 to be here.
04:10:18 I am here because I am a neighbor.
04:10:20 I am a citizen.
04:10:21 I have never done this before, 35 years in Tampa.
04:10:25 I am privileged to have the opportunity to have express my
04:10:29 concerns.
04:10:32 First, we are asking for the denial of this special use
04:10:36 permit because any change in variance to the existing zoning
04:10:42 district designation of RM-24 sets a precedent and can
04:10:49 seriously impact our home values.
04:10:53 We already live in the Westshore business district.
04:10:57 Our neighborhood should not be infringed any further by home
04:11:01 businesses or otherwise that take away our residential
04:11:05 enjoyment.
04:11:08 If the candle making business our neighbors were engaged in
04:11:13 involved pouring wax into paper cups, I wouldn't be here.
04:11:22 Their candle making enterprise is very intrusive in terms of
04:11:29 noise levels and is done in their garage workshop.
04:11:32 Heaven forbid it was done in the home, which we immediately
04:11:36 abut.
04:11:39 They cut glass wine bottles, and then pressure wash the
04:11:46 labels from the old wine bottles.
04:11:50 So not only do we have numerous stacks of wine bottles
04:11:55 everywhere, in the alley, in the patio area, the action of
04:12:01 the grinding of the glass.
04:12:06 I do have a very brief one-minute recording of what I hear
04:12:13 when I'm sitting on my patio, which is about 25 feet away
04:12:18 from the outside garage.
04:12:21 If I may play this for you.
04:12:24 I actually have two but I would like to play the one that
04:12:27 demonstrates the grinding noise, if I may.
04:12:29 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Mr. Shelby, is it okay for her to play
04:12:35 something that she -- has not authenticated but we take her
04:12:44 at her word.
04:12:45 She's under oath.
04:12:46 >> you can weigh the evidence.
04:12:49 >>MIKE SUAREZ: And I am not sure how we do this technically
04:12:51 because it's a recording of the noises.
04:12:53 I would suggest, Mr. Shelby, you might want to put it next
04:12:56 to your microphone to make it easier, because that is not a
04:13:00 directional microphone at the podium and may not be able to
04:13:04 hear. I am not sure but that's just a guess.
04:13:09 You can try it.
04:13:09 Ma'am, you can go ahead and put it on as loud as you can.
04:13:12 >> And I am very nervous, so please bear with me.
04:13:15 That's okay.
04:13:16 I'm very nervous, too, most of the time.
04:13:18 >> 9 a.m. Saturday morning, May 6th.
04:13:23 This is the noise from my neighbors.
04:13:25 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Can everyone hear that?
04:13:32 Okay.
04:13:34 You may want to use the -- there's a microphone there.
04:13:41 There you go.
04:13:41 (Bell sounds)
04:13:47 >> I still don't think you can hear it very well.
04:13:52 >>YVONNE CAPIN: I hear it perfect.
04:13:55 >> I also have another one that demonstrates the pressure
04:13:59 washing.
04:14:00 >>MIKE SUAREZ: It sound like there is some noise there.
04:14:07 Is that with a window or door open?
04:14:10 >> With it closed.
04:14:12 That's my patio.
04:14:13 I am sitting on my patio.
04:14:14 >>MIKE SUAREZ: I just want to make sure was it inside your
04:14:17 home or outside your home?
04:14:19 >> It was outside my home.
04:14:20 On my back porch.
04:14:21 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Yes, ma'am.
04:14:23 Mrs. Capin.
04:14:24 >>YVONNE CAPIN: You stated date.
04:14:25 What time of day was it?
04:14:27 >> That was 8 a.m. on a Saturday morning.
04:14:29 And that's our other problem.
04:14:30 >>YVONNE CAPIN: Excuse me, what hours do we have for
04:14:34 construction?
04:14:38 We do have hours to allow, I know that we do.
04:14:42 We do, for hammering and sawing and the rest it.
04:14:46 There are certain hours during the week and then on
04:14:48 weekends.
04:14:48 But I don't know the hours.
04:14:50 Can we find out?
04:14:52 >> My other recording is from 7:30 on a Sunday evening.
04:14:56 >>YVONNE CAPIN: Okay.
04:14:58 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Well, ma'am, if I could, we did hear your
04:15:07 evidence, and we are going to get the question answered from
04:15:10 our staff about the construction noise.
04:15:13 >> Other than it's 25 feet.
04:15:14 We were good neighbors at the beginning, but since there's
04:15:18 no rhyme or reason when they do this, how often they do it,
04:15:22 you can't even have a conversation on your patio.
04:15:25 I just ask that you would consider the fact that this is a
04:15:29 pleasant residential neighborhood, and any exception to the
04:15:32 uses that are already there will cause serious loss of value
04:15:39 and could risk us being exposed to future unknown
04:15:42 businesses.
04:15:42 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Thank you very much.
04:15:44 I appreciate it.
04:15:47 Mrs. Moreda, if you could answer the question that Mrs.
04:15:49 Capin has.
04:15:50 >>GLORIA MOREDA: I believe Mrs. Kert is looking it up.
04:15:54 I did want to for the record point you to number F of the
04:15:58 criteria for home occupation.
04:16:01 That it shall not create noise, vibrations, or electrical
04:16:08 interference detectable by normal senses outside of the
04:16:11 dwelling unit.
04:16:12 So I'm not sure about that noise, but I just wanted to point
04:16:18 out that one of the conditions of the home occupation, it
04:16:22 should not cause disturbance.
04:16:25 >>MIKE SUAREZ: If I could ask a question, Mrs. Moreda,
04:16:28 before we go bath back to the petitioner.
04:16:31 When we are looking at the -- what it means to be home
04:16:35 business -- and there's a number of different things that
04:16:38 are mentioned on here, barbershop, so on and so forth.
04:16:46 I don't see anything that is more intensive other than small
04:16:52 appliance repair.
04:16:53 Is there anything else in the code or in this particular
04:16:55 part of the code that indicates anything that might be
04:16:58 similar?
04:16:59 >>GLORIA MOREDA: No, it really should be business that is
04:17:02 really not detectable by anybody.
04:17:05 When they tell me that candle making, I thought, well, maybe
04:17:12 domestic craft, maybe falls under that.
04:17:14 But usually the home occupation is a such intensity that no
04:17:19 one even knows it's there.
04:17:21 And I think that's one of the reasons why it is supposed to
04:17:24 be in the main house, not an accessory structure.
04:17:28 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Thank you.
04:17:30 Mrs. Capin.
04:17:31 >>YVONNE CAPIN: I wanted to say when this came up it
04:17:34 brought back memories.
04:17:35 My mother and father had a home business in a detached
04:17:38 garage.
04:17:38 It was sewing.
04:17:40 But you had no idea that anything -- that there was anything
04:17:45 in there that was absolutely -- so, you know, I want to hear
04:17:51 the rebuttal.
04:17:53 But, again, I understand having business at home, because I
04:17:59 grew up with a business at home.
04:18:00 So I'll listen to the rebuttal.
04:18:05 Continue.
04:18:05 >>LISA MONTELIONE: [Off microphone.] Chair Suarez was
04:18:14 talking about dog grooming.
04:18:16 I would assume -- I'm sorry.
04:18:21 You know if there was a dog grooming business in the house
04:18:24 next door because you would hear animals going back and
04:18:28 forth.
04:18:31 So that seems a little more intense than the others.
04:18:38 Private tutoring, you see people coming and going.
04:18:42 >>GLORIA MOREDA: It would.
04:18:44 I'm not saying -- a beauty salon, you are going to have
04:18:50 customers.
04:18:52 You know, we treat that as customers by appointment only.
04:18:58 That type of thing.
04:18:59 >>LISA MONTELIONE: I understand.
04:19:03 You mentioned all of the locations that the candle company
04:19:09 is in, and it's very impressive. Even out of state.
04:19:14 It seems that in order to fulfill all of those accounts,
04:19:18 there would be a hey volume of product being created and
04:19:24 shipped.
04:19:26 >> Well, orders from their customers and they fulfill the
04:19:33 orders and ship them out.
04:19:34 So it's not like they make them and store them.
04:19:39 >>LISA MONTELIONE: So when you were talking about the
04:19:44 business and being in another state it's not that they are
04:19:50 shipping to retail locations.
04:19:52 So they are not shipping to, I don't know, Bed Bath &
04:19:55 Beyond, say.
04:19:56 >> No.
04:19:57 It's a little boutique.
04:19:59 Little boutique to be one city maybe in Tennessee at this
04:20:05 point.
04:20:06 And they recognize, they may go beyond the boundaries of
04:20:09 noise, but right now, it's a little boutique around Tampa,
04:20:14 and --
04:20:16 >>LISA MONTELIONE: Do you know what the product volume is,
04:20:19 how many units?
04:20:22 You have to come to the microphone.
04:20:23 >>MIKE SUAREZ: State your name, sir.
04:20:26 >> My name is Steve Neher. 4618 West North "B" Street,
04:20:32 Tampa, Florida.
04:20:34 Our volume is probably not more than maybe five hundred
04:20:36 candles a year. It started out as a hobby, a craft thing to
04:20:40 do.
04:20:41 It's become so popular.
04:20:42 >>LISA MONTELIONE: And I don't mean to interrupt, but it is
04:20:45 20 after four, and you have been here all day so I know you
04:20:49 want to get out of here and get through this.
04:20:53 But if it's 4 to 500 candles a year, it would seem that the
04:21:01 testimony we have had from the opposition is that the noise
04:21:06 and the disruption is Saturdays, and Saturday morning,
04:21:13 another Sunday morning.
04:21:14 And it was intimated if not specifically stated that this
04:21:21 was a regular occurrence.
04:21:22 So if you are only producing 500 candles a year, I would
04:21:25 imagine you are not operating the cutting operation or the
04:21:31 pressure washing operation seven days a week for extended
04:21:38 periods of time.
04:21:39 >> No.
04:21:39 >>LISA MONTELIONE: How often would you say, or what are
04:21:44 your hours?
04:21:49 The glass grinder is a little 2 by 2 glass grinder that you
04:21:53 get at Hobby Lobby or any craft store.
04:21:56 I'm not sure what the noise was, we don't have a video of it
04:22:00 so we can't confirm whether it was actually --
04:22:02 >>LISA MONTELIONE: She's under oath so I am going to --
04:22:05 >> I don't know if she was peeking over the fence or I don't
04:22:08 know if she saw what it was.
04:22:09 I will tell you -- and they can confirm.
04:22:12 They have been extensive remodeling on their townhome so
04:22:15 many so there have been workers back and forth.
04:22:19 That very well may have been a saw that was cutting wood as
04:22:21 part of the construction project.
04:22:23 I don't know.
04:22:23 >> And I will add that we are crafty people so regardless if
04:22:28 we had a business or not.
04:22:30 One thing that she didn't really mention is there is an oak
04:22:35 tree in the backyard that overruns our yard.
04:22:38 Sometimes they use as a homeowner the pressure washer to
04:22:40 clean off in our yard.
04:22:44 So a lot of noise is just being homeowners.
04:22:50 >>LISA MONTELIONE: So back to the home, what are the
04:22:53 operating hours of the business?
04:22:54 >> Well, they don't have regular operating hours.
04:22:56 I mean, they do work regular jobs.
04:22:58 And this is a hobby related, grog grown into a business from
04:23:04 a hobby that they had.
04:23:05 >> That's why he's doing it on weekends.
04:23:07 >> I mean --
04:23:13 >> I mean, on demand.
04:23:15 Like if people want tall candles, be ready in a few days,
04:23:19 and it might be on a Tuesday.
04:23:23 Will.
04:23:27 >> You might want to some day in which case would you move
04:23:30 out of the garage.
04:23:31 (Laughter).
04:23:32 >> And the proposal is supposed to be keep all the business
04:23:35 related activity in the garage.
04:23:37 So the grinding will be in the garage.
04:23:38 They did used to use a pressure washer and pressure wash the
04:23:42 labels off the wine bottles that they recycled to house the
04:23:46 candles but they since found a better method which is
04:23:50 soaking which is completely quiet other than running water,
04:23:52 you know. So there will no longer be pressure washing.
04:23:58 But there still may be pressure washing of the patio.
04:24:05 The other two things that I did want to mention in response,
04:24:08 that there is no change.
04:24:09 I think you all appreciate that this is a use that is
04:24:13 permitted within the zoning district as a special use, but
04:24:15 it's meeting all the criteria, which we have shown that we
04:24:20 met with the waiver which we are asking to approve.
04:24:22 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Are you done within your rebuttal are?
04:24:26 >> I am.
04:24:27 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Any other questions or comments by council?
04:24:29 >>YVONNE CAPIN: When she brought up Saturday and Sunday, I
04:24:33 was going to ask you if you had a regular job.
04:24:37 An 8 to 5 job, or because I that would answer that question.
04:24:42 But I also need to state, I live four blocks from this
04:24:48 address on the same street, so I know exactly where this is
04:24:53 at.
04:24:54 I have got to tell you, the business in the garage, that's
04:25:01 how my family ate and how we paid the rent, that's how we
04:25:05 did everything, and my parents had that business until the
04:25:08 day they retired.
04:25:10 Actually, my dad passed away, and it was -- 40 years.
04:25:20 40 years out of the garage.
04:25:21 So when I see that, you know, I understand.
04:25:25 But nonetheless -- happening with the neighborhood.
04:25:32 >>MARTIN SHELBY: Mrs. Capin, all that said, aside of your
04:25:38 personal experience, are you able to be fair and impartial
04:25:40 and judge this on the evidence and the --
04:25:46 >>YVONNE CAPIN: Yes.
04:25:47 I'm reminiscing.
04:25:49 I'm so sorry. (Laughter)
04:25:49 But it has nothing to do with what I am going to decide on.
04:25:52 >> Mr. Miranda?
04:25:54 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: I just want to make a statement loud and
04:25:56 clear that home occupation, not garage occupation.
04:25:59 The garage is 20 by 20, I heard.
04:26:03 >> That's the area in the garage that would be taken up.
04:26:05 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: But if you put that inside the house --
04:26:14 take care of more than likely one part of a whole floor.
04:26:17 >> No.
04:26:19 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: Well, one third of the whole floor, one
04:26:21 half of the whole floor.
04:26:23 >> It would be less space.
04:26:25 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: Thank you, chair.
04:26:27 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Any other comments or questions by council?
04:26:30 Council you are satisfied?
04:26:34 Is there anyone else in the public that would like to speak
04:26:36 about this item number 57?
04:26:38 >> Can I speak anymore?
04:26:41 >>MIKE SUAREZ: No, ma'am.
04:26:42 I apologize.
04:26:43 You cannot.
04:26:44 I see no one.
04:26:45 Is there a motion to close?
04:26:47 I have a motion to close by Mrs. Capin.
04:26:49 I have a second by Mr. Reddick.
04:26:50 All in favor of that motion please indicate by saying aye.
04:26:53 Any opposed?
04:26:54 What is the pleasure of council?
04:26:58 Who wants to take this?
04:27:00 >>LISA MONTELIONE: I guess I'll take this again.
04:27:03 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Go ahead, bring it.
04:27:08 Go ahead.
04:27:08 >>LISA MONTELIONE: I will move to approve the application
04:27:12 for the SU-I by the applicant.
04:27:18 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Overturn the decision of the zoning
04:27:22 administrator, I believe?
04:27:23 Is that what that is?
04:27:25 >>LISA MONTELIONE: I'm sorry, because all I have is the
04:27:27 staff report.
04:27:29 >>MIKE SUAREZ: I understand.
04:27:30 >>LISA MONTELIONE: The letter is in the back.
04:27:35 To have overturn the decision of the zoning administrator
04:27:42 are in that all of the criteria as stated on the record is
04:27:45 met, and that since the garage is being -- the code, section
04:27:57 27-156, letter E, states no home occupation shall be
04:28:02 conducted in any accessory building from this other than
04:28:09 what was submitted in the town home configuration, the
04:28:12 garage is the best likely location.
04:28:20 It is detached but only by a few feet.
04:28:23 And I don't believe that that few feet makes a material
04:28:28 difference are? So you are granting the waiver in order
04:28:31 to --
04:28:33 >>LISA MONTELIONE: I am overturning the decision and
04:28:35 granting the waiver that is to it 27-156 E.
04:28:40 >>MIKE SUAREZ: We have a motion by Mrs. Montelione.
04:28:42 Is there a second?
04:28:44 There is no second?
04:28:46 >>YVONNE CAPIN: I am going to second.
04:28:47 >>MIKE SUAREZ: We have a second from Mrs. Capin.
04:28:51 All in favor of that motion please indicate by saying aye.
04:28:54 Any opposed?
04:28:57 Okay.
04:28:57 >>THE CLERK: [Off microphone.]
04:29:13 >>MIKE SUAREZ: What is the pleasure of the rest of the
04:29:15 council?
04:29:16 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: I move to uphold the decision of the
04:29:19 zoning administrator because of hardship or practicality
04:29:24 does not create a hardship, and the difficulty doesn't
04:29:30 deserve any further action.
04:29:31 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Motion by Mr. Miranda.
04:29:33 I have a second by Mr. Reddick.
04:29:35 All in favor of that motion please indicate by saying aye.
04:29:37 Any opposed?
04:29:38 >> Oppose.
04:29:41 >>THE CLERK: Mrs. Capin and Montelione voting no.
04:29:44 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Thank you.
04:29:48 Mrs. Capin has to leave in a few minutes.
04:29:50 But before we go -- and Mr. Miranda, I want to go to item
04:29:54 number 74 concerning stormwater, if that's okay with you
04:29:57 all.
04:30:01 You can't?
04:30:01 You have to leave?
04:30:02 If I do, Mr. Baird, you are going to do 73 and 74?
04:30:13 >>BRAD BAIRD: Public works administrator.
04:30:23 You want me to do 73 first, correct?
04:30:33 73 is on stormwater flooding, and 74 is the program.
04:30:38 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Do 74 first.
04:30:40 >>BRAD BAIRD: Very well.
04:30:46 So because I am an eternal optimist I am back under
04:30:50 stormwater improvement assessment.
04:30:51 If I can have the presentation.
04:30:53 >>MIKE SUAREZ: It's been so long they may have lost it.
04:31:01 There it is.
04:31:02 >>BRAD BAIRD: There it is.
04:31:06 So we are back at the request of City Council to come back
04:31:13 with a program and revisions to the way this, and before I
04:31:24 leave the cover page, those two pictures, the one on the
04:31:27 left, is the 300 block of north Rome.
04:31:30 That is one that -- one of the projects I will talk about in
04:31:34 a minute would resolve.
04:31:36 The one on the right is the infamous Anderson and Dale
04:31:40 Mabry.
04:31:44 I think there was a comic at one point if that was built
04:31:56 over a dam during the drought we would have had a full
04:32:01 reservoir.
04:32:02 So this is once again an overview, the last time we were
04:32:07 buff was November in 2015.
04:32:10 It's a comprehensive phase, capital improvement plan that is
04:32:16 worth $251.28 million and I believe we will be handing
04:32:22 out -- yes, we have handed out two things.
04:32:26 A copy.
04:32:27 Presentation, and the list of the projects that coincides
04:32:32 with.
04:32:36 So the large yellow dots are larger projects that I will
04:32:42 discuss in a minute.
04:32:44 And the smaller dots are small or medium projects throughout
04:32:50 the improvement area.
04:32:54 So this represents projects throughout the improvement area,
04:32:58 and the improvement area is officially called the central
04:33:01 and lower basin improvement area, if you remember that.
04:33:06 So we have flooding issues throughout that improvement area.
04:33:12 We have enough flooding to go around for everyone.
04:33:18 The large projects are comprised of the six projects listed
04:33:26 starting with the upper peninsula flooding relief, otherwise
04:33:32 known as Henderson Dale Mabry.
04:33:34 And for the most part to the west of that and Neptune and
04:33:43 Dale Mabry.
04:33:44 That project is worth about $40 million.
04:33:46 And it breaks down into 3 million from FDOT, 18.5 million
04:33:55 from SWFWMD, and 18.5 million from the City of Tampa.
04:34:02 And then secondly we have North Tampa closed basin flooding,
04:34:06 and this is flooding that I note Councilwoman Montelione is
04:34:11 very familiar with, between approximately 17th street
04:34:16 and 23rd street in and around Linebaugh.
04:34:22 And that's worth about $5 million.
04:34:28 With a little more if you count the land purchase that's in
04:34:31 another line item.
04:34:33 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Mrs. Montelione.
04:34:34 >>LISA MONTELIONE: So, Mr. Baird, you are saying that
04:34:36 the -- and I'm sorry that these votes fell on the same day.
04:34:41 I think you are going to anticipate what I am going to say,
04:34:44 because for a $5 million investment to alleviate the
04:34:49 flooding in North Tampa we are asking the citizens to pay
04:34:51 for it themselves.
04:34:53 With an assessment.
04:34:57 >>BRAD BAIRD: Yes, this would be part --
04:34:59 >>LISA MONTELIONE: That's all I needed.
04:35:00 Thank you very much.
04:35:00 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Mr. Miranda?
04:35:03 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: Excuse me, along the same lines, all
04:35:05 citizens are going to pay for everything.
04:35:06 >> Correct.
04:35:08 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: Those that flood and those that don't
04:35:10 flood.
04:35:10 >>LISA MONTELIONE: That's the point I was making.
04:35:13 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: But I am not an engineer, if I could ask
04:35:16 the question. This is, I would say, a 10-ounce, 12-ounce
04:35:20 cup of water, basically.
04:35:22 My water evaporated, came back.
04:35:26 How big are your pipes at the sewer system and what is it
04:35:29 going to be replaced with?
04:35:31 >> These are large pipes we are talking about for a backbone
04:35:34 for these large projects.
04:35:35 So they can be as big as a 10 by 10, a 11-foot by 10-foot.
04:35:41 You can walk in.
04:35:42 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: Since you are an engineer and I am not,
04:35:47 if you have a rising tied coming in and you have a
04:35:49 preponderance of rain, and the water can't go out, isn't it
04:35:54 a fact that the possibility could exist that the backflow
04:35:57 back into the residential street is twice what you saw
04:36:00 thereby?
04:36:03 >>BRAD BAIRD: No, especially at these two locations.
04:36:06 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: No, no, talking about the general.
04:36:09 >> For the whole city?
04:36:12 That would be not typical city-wide.
04:36:14 And I would say 99.9% of the time you will not have that
04:36:18 issue.
04:36:19 So because you have to couple a high tide with a high
04:36:24 intensity rain.
04:36:25 So what happens in those cases is the water drains lower.
04:36:33 But for the most part, the two pictures that I just
04:36:37 showed --
04:36:40 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: And I'm sorry, Mr. Chairman.
04:36:41 You are telling me that you will risk your retirement --
04:36:47 (Laughter)
04:36:50 >> I didn't say that.
04:36:51 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: I understand that.
04:36:52 I want to make clear in your mind that your retirement,
04:36:55 you're saying that the culvert you are going to build and
04:36:57 the size of the pipe, whatever the figure was, I want
04:37:02 something that solves it completely.
04:37:05 This is rain water comes down.
04:37:07 The only way of solving this -- and this goes back to -- if
04:37:13 it calls and you can drain it back down into the aquifer
04:37:17 instead of the base then off 100 percent guarantee there
04:37:19 would be no backflow coming into the streets.
04:37:22 The problem we incur now is not the amount of drain.
04:37:25 It's where it's going to doesn't fall.
04:37:30 It flows back.
04:37:35 Lot of rain and backflow and you have the perfect storm.
04:37:40 >>BRAD BAIRD: Correct N.that case tough perfect storm.
04:37:42 However, most of the time, you are solving these problems,
04:37:46 which are the major problems, medium problems throughout the
04:37:49 city.
04:37:51 The variety majority of time.
04:37:53 99% of the time.
04:37:54 But when you have the perfect storm, yes, you have that.
04:37:56 >> I want you to convince me because you have a Cuban
04:38:00 sandwich here.
04:38:03 I understand what you did.
04:38:04 But, you know, a house that's 100 square feet.
04:38:11 >>BRAD BAIRD: No, 100 to 1300.
04:38:18 >> But 1300, the values will go higher than the Cuban
04:38:20 sandwich.
04:38:20 >>BRAD BAIRD: Let me, if I could, let me finish the
04:38:25 presentation, and then Sonya has the financial presentation
04:38:29 and then Jan will actually put the schedule in.
04:38:32 Thank you.
04:38:32 >>MIKE SUAREZ: I'm glad you mentioned the cowboy an
04:38:38 sandwich after we have already eaten.
04:38:40 >>BRAD BAIRD: All right, the third project is Cypress
04:38:43 Street outfall.
04:38:44 That is a $40 million effort in West Tampa.
04:38:48 To build box culverts down Cass and down cypress.
04:38:53 And
04:38:54 That would solve the flooding in the one picture on the
04:38:58 left-hand side in the tidal flood.
04:39:00 The fourth one is southeast Seminole Heights flooding
04:39:04 relief, which is a $30 million effort.
04:39:08 And I have a picture at the very end of the presentation on
04:39:14 lake Roberta and the flooding around there, and that is an
04:39:19 example of the project that that would solve.
04:39:22 The fifth is lower peninsula flooding relief, 75 million,
04:39:26 which we are embarking on a study in that area, to look at a
04:39:33 more detailed, what is the solution necessary to resolve the
04:39:40 flooding it from Euclid down to MacDill Air Force Base.
04:39:46 And finally, we have the small dots, 61 million capital
04:39:51 improvement plan that goes throughout the improvement area.
04:39:55 And I have maps that I have shown before of each of those
04:40:00 large projects.
04:40:01 And I will be happy to get into more detail later in the Q
04:40:04 and A.
04:40:10 And this issue of the grant status has come up several times
04:40:17 last year as we were going through the presentations.
04:40:23 These projects listed are grants that are on hold.
04:40:27 And we are in danger of losing.
04:40:30 So in total, we are in danger of losing almost $30 million
04:40:36 with these four projects.
04:40:38 As you can see, they are in various levels of
04:40:43 implementation.
04:40:45 For the first one, we put the design on hold.
04:40:48 We would have to complete the design on the 43rd street
04:40:52 outfall.
04:40:53 The next one is the upper peninsula whereby we would need to
04:40:58 execute a cooperative funding agreement by September
04:41:01 30th of this year.
04:41:04 Upper peninsula construction and Cypress Street outfall, we
04:41:09 need to decide by June 1 whether to put it in the state
04:41:12 budget for '17 or not.
04:41:14 Again that's by June 1.
04:41:17 That's a couple weeks away.
04:41:20 So with that, I will turn it over to Sonya to be go through
04:41:24 the financial aspects on how we are going to pay for it and
04:41:31 what that means in terms of the assessment amount.
04:41:39 Thank you.
04:41:39 >>SONYA LITTLE: Revenue and finance.
04:41:47 I would direct your attention to slide number 5 of the
04:41:50 presentation.
04:41:54 Just a reminder of where we left off last November, that
04:41:58 that slide that is titled structure in the year 2016 through
04:42:07 2021, it's proposed to council for a small footprint with
04:42:14 square footage of 100 to 1300 square feet, and if you will
04:42:18 recall, the monthly assessment at that time that was
04:42:22 proposed was ramped up and based on a construction plan for
04:42:28 the $251 million assessment plan Brad mentioned, for the
04:42:33 project costs, issuance of bond of roughly $200 million,
04:42:40 meaning two different series bringing on to fit in line with
04:42:45 the construction project schedule, and then will special
04:42:53 assessment which increases year after year starting out at
04:42:57 2.69 for small single-family residence, and increasing
04:43:03 through 2017-2018, to 2021 and ending at $4.98 per month.
04:43:12 So that's what was proposed back in November.
04:43:15 A what has changed in the whole funding plan is instead of
04:43:20 the full amount being funded within special assessment
04:43:25 revenues, that would be used to secure two separate bond
04:43:29 issues, we have proposed committing $20 million at the
04:43:35 upcoming available CIT funding to put into the plan.
04:43:39 And what that does is instead of having bonds of $200
04:43:45 million secured by special assessment, it takes it down to
04:43:49 $180 million in bonds over the five-year period to the
04:43:54 issues that are secured by special assessment with a balance
04:43:59 being funded by community investment tax revenues or $20
04:44:04 million.
04:44:05 The resulting rate structure or the revised portion at the
04:44:09 bottom of that table reflects the monthly rate of 2016 of
04:44:19 229, 256, and then the final year at $4.55 for a small
04:44:26 single-family residence.
04:44:29 Now, we'll have the same information for comparative
04:44:33 purposes so that you can see what was proposed back in
04:44:35 November for medium --
04:44:38 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Before you go on, if you could, just to make
04:44:40 sure that people understand it, it does not end at 2021.
04:44:44 That is just the top end where it gets to, and then it
04:44:47 continues on at that annual amount every year afterwards.
04:44:50 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Yes, sir.
04:44:53 That's correct.
04:44:54 That would be the final entry.
04:44:56 >>MIKE SUAREZ: I'm sorry?
04:45:01 >> How many years?
04:45:02 >>MIKE SUAREZ: So 25 more years is what she was saying.
04:45:05 >> Correct.
04:45:06 Thank you. We provided the same information for medium
04:45:08 single-family residence of 1301 square feet to 2200 for the
04:45:15 medium single-family residence.
04:45:18 The newly proposed --
04:45:21 >>HARRY COHEN: I just want to clarify something.
04:45:23 Because you are using those square footage numbers. We are
04:45:26 talking about the building's footprint square footage.
04:45:29 So let's be clear.
04:45:31 Let's say that you have a 4,000 square foot, two-story house
04:45:36 that is equal on the first and second floor.
04:45:40 Does that mean that the footprint of the building is just
04:45:42 2,000 feet?
04:45:44 Or would that count as four? Just two.
04:45:50 So it's important that even a 4,000 square foot house under
04:45:54 this scenario could be a medium size house depending on how
04:46:00 much is on the first floor and how much is on the second
04:46:03 floor.
04:46:03 >>SONYA LITTLE: Yes, sir, that is correct.
04:46:05 And I should have started --
04:46:10 >>LISA MONTELIONE: I'm sorry.
04:46:11 If I may.
04:46:13 That's a good point, Mr. Cohen.
04:46:15 Because builders may take that into consideration and start
04:46:18 building top-heavy houses with the first floor being a
04:46:24 smaller footprint than the second floor, especially when you
04:46:29 get into your very, very large houses, this stormwater could
04:46:35 rack up dollars.
04:46:37 >> but theoretically. If they did that there would be more
04:46:40 impervious surface left on the property, so it really does
04:46:43 have the desired effect of reducing the flooding.
04:46:46 >> Go ahead.
04:46:51 >>SONYA LITTLE: Thank you.
04:46:54 So slide 6 of the presentation provides the same
04:46:54 information, so the infusion of the $20 million of community
04:47:03 investment tax into the program, in that sense, we end up
04:47:06 with a monthly assessment in the first year of $3.75 with
04:47:11 the final increase at 7.46 for the life of the assessment.
04:47:20 For the large family, single-family residence, 2,201 to
04:47:30 4,000 square feet.
04:47:31 Again, to your point, the impervious area being considered,
04:47:36 the building footprint not taking into account square
04:47:39 footage that may be on the second or even third floor, for
04:47:42 that matter, starting out whenever the revised rate
04:47:45 structure of 2016 at $6.22 per month, up to 12.39 per month.
04:47:54 Beginning and 21 for the life aft assessment.
04:48:00 And then our final tier --
04:48:03 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Excuse me for a moment.
04:48:04 >>LISA MONTELIONE: The pervious versus impervious, so this
04:48:09 has also changed -- correct me if I am wrong -- from the
04:48:13 first proposal where we were counting up patios, driveways
04:48:17 and any other impervious surface?
04:48:26 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Come to the microphone, Mr. Baird.
04:48:27 >>LISA MONTELIONE: Yes, please.
04:48:29 So it's not just the building footprint.
04:48:31 We are counting any impervious on the lot.
04:48:34 >>BRAD BAIRD: No, if you recall the set-up of four tier
04:48:39 system with the footprint range that we are talking about as
04:48:46 Sonya just went through, so if you are residential, you fall
04:48:50 in one of those tiers, but commercial, you count everything
04:48:55 that's impervious.
04:48:58 That's the difference.
04:48:59 >>LISA MONTELIONE: But residential you are only counting
04:49:03 the building footprint, not any impervious surface.
04:49:05 So if you have got a pool deck that's impervious and you
04:49:08 have got a driveway that's impervious and you have a
04:49:11 detached garage that is impervious, none of that counts.
04:49:14 >>BRAD BAIRD: That's correct.
04:49:16 >>LISA MONTELIONE: So the footprints of the primary
04:49:18 residence.
04:49:19 >>BRAD BAIRD: Yes.
04:49:21 Yes.
04:49:23 Remember what I said last time about that is the big
04:49:27 advantage, the commercial property has over residential.
04:49:31 So if you are a commercial property, and up reduce your
04:49:34 impervious, it's in effect the same as 100% mitigation
04:49:40 credit.
04:49:40 It reduces your EU one for one.
04:49:45 Every square foot.
04:49:48 Thank you.
04:49:49 >>SONYA LITTLE: And then to be put it in perspective, which
04:50:01 we are talking in such large dollar amounts, that if we want
04:50:05 to compare what we all love, the West Tampa sandwich shop
04:50:18 Cuban sandwich, at $4.45. In 2016 the monthly rate on the
04:50:20 assessment on a small single-family residence would be $2.29
04:50:28 per month.
04:50:28 And between 2016 and 2021 when you compare those monthly
04:50:32 rates in '16 compared to the monthly rate in 2021, the
04:50:38 increase between the low and the high is 2.26, less than the
04:50:45 cost of a Cuban sandwich.
04:50:51 As a reminder, we want to remind again, we would not change
04:51:06 any other features that we presented in the program back in
04:51:06 November. The hardship program that we had proposed for
04:51:08 those who may have difficulty in covering the assessment is
04:51:12 still in place in this plan where at least one homeowner in
04:51:20 a property, at least age 65 and/or unable to work because of
04:51:26 a permanent disability with documentation, and/or veteran
04:51:33 with a service connected disability, that falls within the
04:51:36 30% area of medium income can apply for and apply for
04:51:40 assistance.
04:51:41 And that amount is not being passed on to the remaining rate
04:51:44 payers.
04:51:45 That amount would be absorbed by the general fund.
04:51:50 So we are offering the hardship program that's to be funded
04:51:56 through general fund and would not be passed on as an added
04:51:59 cost to the remaining rate payers.
04:52:01 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: Thank you for doing this.
04:52:07 I really appreciate it.
04:52:09 I'm thinking that you must have some feel what that data
04:52:10 might be, yourself being very good in finance and
04:52:14 mathematics.
04:52:15 Tell us what that figure is and the amount that you think
04:52:18 might be afforded by the general fund.
04:52:21 >>SONYA LITTLE: Yes, sir.
04:52:23 >>LISA MONTELIONE: I think she's prepared for that
04:52:26 question.
04:52:26 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: I know she is.
04:52:29 She's always prepared.
04:52:30 That's why I asked the question.
04:52:32 >>SONYA LITTLE: Well, because we are legally obligated not
04:52:35 to make at burden on the remaining taxpayers, we did run
04:52:39 some analysis where we pulled demographic information for
04:52:48 information and age requirements within the area for the
04:52:52 improvement assessment.
04:52:56 And based on that information, we came up with 100% of those
04:53:02 that are eligible applied for and received assistance under
04:53:08 the hardship program that in the first year it would be
04:53:11 roughly $300,000.
04:53:13 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: I knew it would be low.
04:53:19 You are smiling.
04:53:20 >> 300,000.
04:53:23 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: I go by cash.
04:53:26 10%.
04:53:26 >>SONYA LITTLE: That's all I have on the fee structure.
04:53:30 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Any other questions of Mrs. Little?
04:53:32 Thank you.
04:53:32 >>JAN MCLEAN: This is the exciting part of the
04:53:45 presentation.
04:53:47 Our process timeline, and the deadlines that we have in
04:53:50 order for council to consider whether you would approve
04:53:56 improvement assessment in August, as you can see, we are
04:54:00 here today to receive your direction whether to move forward
04:54:03 or not.
04:54:05 Assuming that you move forward, there are certain things,
04:54:08 certain timelines that we have to meet.
04:54:10 The second one on there is already in place as far as your
04:54:14 service assessment which was approved last year, and we come
04:54:18 before you annually to reapprove it.
04:54:21 On July 14th, we start the action that we would need for
04:54:25 the improvement assessment. I would be here asking your
04:54:28 approval for adoption of the initial resolution, which is
04:54:31 the first step that would lay out the improvement assessment
04:54:34 and all of the elements thereto and the adoption of the
04:54:38 resolution for authority to publish and mail the notices for
04:54:42 the public hearing for the improvement assessment.
04:54:46 Then we would do so by August 1st.
04:54:49 August 4th we would do the public hearing for the
04:54:52 service assessment.
04:54:54 And we are anticipating the public hearing for the
04:54:56 improvement assessment if you so directed us today on August
04:55:00 25th because we have to have the roll certified to the
04:55:04 tax collector by September 15th.
04:55:07 So today we would be asking you for your direction whether
04:55:10 to move forward or not to prepare the resolutions and the
04:55:14 notices for your consideration of an improvement assessment
04:55:18 in August.
04:55:18 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
04:55:23 Tax collector, you say that word, I was thinking Mr. Baird
04:55:26 say he was two years away from having a computer system that
04:55:29 could do whatever we could in-house without paying $5
04:55:33 million.
04:55:34 Does that still hold true?
04:55:35 >>BRAD BAIRD: That still holds true, but I'm six months
04:55:44 closer.
04:55:45 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: Now you are 18 months out.
04:55:48 And if you were to make this, would you still have to pay 5
04:55:53 million if we were doing it in-house, or you would have to
04:55:56 contract it out to the tax collector?
04:55:58 >>BRAD BAIRD: We would look at which method is more cost
04:56:03 effective.
04:56:05 And the method that is more cost effective, but remember,
04:56:10 there's the big issue that to separate out those residents
04:56:14 as part of the billing program --
04:56:19 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: I have all the confidence in the world.
04:56:22 >>BRAD BAIRD: Put in manually.
04:56:25 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: Where people use water you send them the
04:56:27 bill.
04:56:28 When you buy water you send them the bill with the
04:56:30 pass-through.
04:56:31 You know how to do that.
04:56:33 >>BRAD BAIRD: The stormwater doesn't go through a meter,
04:56:36 you know.
04:56:36 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: You are getting me off of what I want my
04:56:42 smiling at me and confusing me a little bit.
04:56:45 And the net savings could be applied.
04:56:48 However, you have another resource that we haven't talked
04:56:50 about, C.I.T. funds, so that's 35 million.
04:56:54 And by the time you leave here, sir, you are going to have
04:56:59 maybe a resource that we haven't even talked about, and
04:57:02 that's city water that you might sell in the future finance
04:57:06 you ever get hooked up to the right parties to buy it, which
04:57:10 could be applied towards this -- in other words, I want a
04:57:14 commitment from somebody that I am not going to leave the
04:57:16 whole city here because of 250 million.
04:57:22 That's the cost.
04:57:23 But nobody talked about the interest.
04:57:24 And I could tell the rate payer exactly what it is.
04:57:28 I don't like to say, I am going to buy a house, going to
04:57:31 cost me 100,000, the cost isn't going to cost you 100,000.
04:57:35 It will cost out 100,000 plus, plus, plus, plus.
04:57:38 >>SONYA LITTLE: Yes, sir, I can provide you with that
04:57:41 information.
04:57:41 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: About half a billion dollars.
04:57:55 >>SONYA LITTLE: Yes, sir. If we look at issuing two
04:57:57 separate bond issues, we are looking at in the neighborhood
04:57:59 of -- on the special assessment side, between principal and
04:58:05 interest, roughly $370 million over a 30-year period to be
04:58:11 repaid principal and interest.
04:58:13 Over a 30-year period.
04:58:15 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: So the 251 becomes 379.
04:58:19 That's it?
04:58:22 >>SONYA LITTLE: Actually, I'm sorry, sir, when we brought
04:58:23 it down on the special assessment to be paid, the debt to be
04:58:27 repaid by the rate payers, they would pay roughly $12
04:58:32 million annually for 30 years for a total principal and
04:58:36 interest of $334 million.
04:58:41 One of the things, though, I would like to mention as it
04:58:44 relate to the tax collector versus the utility bills part of
04:58:49 that analysis along with the cost and the efficiency would
04:58:52 be to figure out the impact on the interest rates.
04:58:57 So just as a tickler.
04:59:01 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: Here is where Bernie Sanders comes in.
04:59:05 Why would anybody hold anybody from us doing something like
04:59:07 this and have a higher interest rate because we are doing
04:59:10 it?
04:59:11 It's the same government.
04:59:12 The government down the street.
04:59:14 We are the same government here.
04:59:15 So what bothers me is not the fact that we have to do it.
04:59:18 We have to do something.
04:59:19 But the way this country is set up, you realize that I can't
04:59:22 even -- I can tax the taxpayer but I can't ask them to float
04:59:26 a bond like a what bond to pay for this?
04:59:28 And I pay them the interest, save half as much as what we
04:59:32 are paying now?
04:59:33 We can't do that legally because the law says you can't do
04:59:35 it.
04:59:35 I can tax you.
04:59:36 But it can't ask you to loan me your money.
04:59:40 Isn't that ridiculous?
04:59:42 >>SONYA LITTLE: Our investors look at it in a very
04:59:45 interesting -- to your point, yes, sir.
04:59:49 Yes, sir.
04:59:50 Also, if I can clarify on the community investment tax
04:59:55 portion, the 20 million, we anticipate, and we will come
04:59:59 back to you -- I have been mentioning to each one of you in
05:00:02 our individual briefings and in prior public hearings that
05:00:06 we are approaching planning for our fifth five-year
05:00:11 increment of the community investment tax.
05:00:15 We have ten years left in the tax.
05:00:19 The tax sunsets in 2026 so part of the proposal to relieve
05:00:24 some of the burden to the rate payer was to use $20 million
05:00:30 of that community investment tax towards this program.
05:00:34 So that will be part of our proposal that we have to come
05:00:37 back to you on June 2nd, along with what was approved
05:00:41 earlier today for Julian B. Lane.
05:00:44 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: If I may, Mr. Chairman.
05:00:47 That 20 million would be an additional savings of your
05:00:50 interest rate if you are going to use that 20 million here
05:00:53 to reduce your service by a lot more than --
05:00:56 >>SONYA LITTLE: Yes, sir.
05:00:58 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: It would be close 30 million.
05:01:00 28 million and something.
05:01:01 >>SONYA LITTLE: To the rate payer, it would reduce -- very
05:01:06 close.
05:01:06 It would reduce our interest on the special assessment bond,
05:01:12 because we are not issuing as many bonds by roughly the 30
05:01:15 million Miranda thanks very much.
05:01:18 Thank God I went to Jefferson high school.
05:01:20 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Mr. Reddick.
05:01:24 >>FRANK REDDICK: The 20 million out of the C.I.T., and the
05:01:31 remaining 5 million out of than the AP fund.
05:01:37 >>SONYA LITTLE: It would -- it was determined that the
05:01:42 remaining 5 million would be further discussion and 15
05:01:48 million for the Julian B. Lane, and the amount of additional
05:01:54 benefit to the program was not significant to the rate
05:01:58 payer.
05:01:59 It would not even be penny savings for the rate payer with
05:02:02 just an additional 5 million into the program for that
05:02:05 purpose.
05:02:07 You can see that the 20 million with a savings of $8.45.
05:02:14 So at 5 million it would not be --
05:02:19 >>FRANK REDDICK: But if you add that 22, the 5 to 20, you
05:02:20 have 25 million, what savings would that be?
05:02:22 >>SONYA LITTLE: The incremental savings would not be
05:02:24 significant.
05:02:25 I would have to calculate it for you.
05:02:27 But 20 million --
05:02:40 >> It would be fair to say it might be close to 3 to 5
05:02:43 cents?
05:02:45 >>SONYA LITTLE: Or even less.
05:02:47 Or even less.
05:02:48 Even less.
05:02:57 Less than 2.
05:02:58 About a penny.
05:02:59 A penny savings.
05:03:05 So the ultimate goal was to find the balance of how much of
05:03:09 a cash infusion we could make to make a difference to the
05:03:13 rate payer, and at some point, you know, the incremental
05:03:16 savings that make a difference.
05:03:18 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Anything else?
05:03:23 >>SONYA LITTLE: On the CIT side that five year program
05:03:27 assumes that we are issuing that instruments be paid off
05:03:35 over time for both these projects and our estimates of $50
05:03:39 million at capacity for the remaining 20 years.
05:03:42 So after we pay off the debt service with the annual
05:03:47 incoming revenues from our CIT, under this plan where we use
05:03:53 15 for Julian B. Lane, 20 million for this program, the
05:03:59 stormwater program, we would still have roughly,
05:04:01 conservatively speaking, and our estimate is roughly $8
05:04:05 million additional CIT revenues for other projects as well.
05:04:08 On an annual basis.
05:04:09 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Mr. Maniscalco, you wanted to speak?
05:04:14 >>GUIDO MANISCALCO: So according to Councilman Miranda's
05:04:17 numbers, we would be essentially saving the taxpayer $30
05:04:22 million.
05:04:22 So a million dollars a year over the 30-year period.
05:04:26 Right?
05:04:27 >>SONYA LITTLE: Yes, the rate payer, the special assessment
05:04:30 rate payer, that amount.
05:04:31 >>GUIDO MANISCALCO: My other question is regarding the
05:04:35 mitigation credit.
05:04:37 If I am a church and I don't pay ad valorem taxes, I will
05:04:42 now be receiving a notice for a capital improvement
05:04:46 assessment, correct?
05:04:53 >>JAN MCLEAN: Office of city attorney.
05:04:54 You would be receiving notice for the capital service
05:04:57 assessment.
05:04:58 You would be already severing a notice for the service
05:05:00 assessment when -- it's always hooked to the service
05:05:05 assessment as well.
05:05:07 >>GUIDO MANISCALCO: What is the criteria in order to
05:05:08 receive a 10% of 100% mitigation credit.
05:05:12 Does somebody have to submit an engineer report or is it a
05:05:16 broader definition, a site plan? How does it work?
05:05:19 What would I have to do on that commercial property or
05:05:24 church or nonprofit or anything other than a house?
05:05:27 >>JAN MCLEAN: Pursuant to the revision thaws adopted at
05:05:32 your last meeting there is a list that's included in the
05:05:34 ordinance now as a guidance list for residential and
05:05:38 commercial to submit to the city to demonstrate that you
05:05:41 have stormwater facilities on property that either treat
05:05:45 partially or whole your stormwater.
05:05:48 Partially would the 10%.
05:05:50 The whole would be your 100%.
05:05:52 It could be it depends on what you have at your access.
05:05:57 But in the ordinance, there's a list of different documents
05:06:01 that you can submit to the city, for the city to make the
05:06:04 determination that you have demonstrated that your
05:06:10 stormwater facilities are present and operating.
05:06:15 In 2021-23.
05:06:19 >>GUIDO MANISCALCO: We received windfall from the BP
05:06:23 settlement money which of course was discussed earlier
05:06:26 today.
05:06:26 Is there more BP settlement money out there?
05:06:29 >>JAN MCLEAN: There is a potential for money to be
05:06:32 available to the city through funds yet to be determined
05:06:39 when or how much, that the city would be able to access.
05:06:44 >>GUIDO MANISCALCO: How far away is that, one, two years?
05:06:48 >>JAN MCLEAN: My understanding is a minimum 18 months, at
05:06:51 least two years.
05:06:52 It's not been determined when we would know that
05:06:55 information.
05:06:55 >>GUIDO MANISCALCO: Now, we are using potentially $20
05:06:59 million in CIT funds ton reduce the entire amount being
05:07:03 processed.
05:07:04 Should there be another windfall, another BP settlement come
05:07:07 out, whatever it is, could we apply that -- do we have the
05:07:11 vote to approve the Julian Lane project could, City Council
05:07:14 say, if the city gets another $20 million, would we be able
05:07:20 to allocate that and apply it to this capital improvement
05:07:23 project so we can pay the debt off earlier, therefore as
05:07:25 Councilman Miranda mentioned, you know, we have that money,
05:07:29 plus the interest that we would be saving so it would be
05:07:32 even less expensive over the two times of the program?
05:07:36 >>JAN MCLEAN: Yes, sir.
05:07:37 If we were to receive another settlement --
05:07:43 >>SONYA LITTLE: If we are two receive a settlement payment
05:07:45 or any funding source that is not currently anticipated we
05:07:49 would have the option of maybe developing what we call a
05:07:52 sinking fund to pay debt service or to take advantage of any
05:07:57 early redemption provisions that we are able to build into
05:08:01 the bond issues at the time we price it.
05:08:04 If you will recall, when we talk about this earlier, when we
05:08:09 price bonds, the market determines when it makes -- and how
05:08:13 much it will cost us to pay them off earlier than the
05:08:17 original maturity.
05:08:18 So all of that will be factored in at the time.
05:08:20 >>GUIDO MANISCALCO: So if we had to wait ten years for the
05:08:23 first set of bonds to be paid off, we could apply if we have
05:08:27 any other windfall or any other money, we could apply that
05:08:30 to paying those bonds early, correct?
05:08:32 Without having to deal were such a huge penalty or any
05:08:35 penalty?
05:08:35 >>SONYA LITTLE: Yes, we could set up maybe a reserve if
05:08:39 that was the intent to pay them off to make sure we could
05:08:42 pay them off when it was allowable, because in many cases,
05:08:46 if you try to pay them off before what is called the call
05:08:49 period, it's too expensive.
05:08:51 It's not even worth it.
05:08:52 >>GUIDO MANISCALCO: We have to wait a certain amount of
05:08:55 time.
05:08:55 Now, the C.I.T. expires in ten years.
05:08:57 Should it get back on the ballot and renew for another 30
05:09:01 years, that's an assumption.
05:09:02 Core we use future CIT to pay down, not ten years into the
05:09:07 program, sewage, could we Utah any future CIT money to
05:09:11 continue paying down that debt?
05:09:14 The other bonds start maturing? Basically, can we save as
05:09:17 much as we can using whatever avenues to save on interest,
05:09:21 to save on the principal, we won't have it to have the
05:09:24 entire burden on the citizen of the city that's being
05:09:27 charged an assessment?
05:09:30 >>SONYA LITTLE: Yes. It would be under the same scenario
05:09:33 that we talked about like unexpected for the funding if we
05:09:36 got an additional 20 million.
05:09:38 The other option is we could look at it for refunding
05:09:42 opportunities tone see if it made sense for us to refund the
05:09:47 special assessment bond with like our covenant budget to
05:09:53 maybe saver save ourselves money.
05:09:55 I could not commit obviously to that because thereby would
05:09:57 have to be a financial analysis to see what makes the most
05:10:01 economic sense at that time.
05:10:04 So it would and could be reduced at that time.
05:10:08 >>GUIDO MANISCALCO: So if we were to get another BP
05:10:12 settlement chunk, it wouldn't be -- discretionary funds, we
05:10:16 could set it aside and do what we have to do with Julian B.
05:10:19 Lane, correct?
05:10:20 Well, we have to approve it.
05:10:22 Not the administration?
05:10:23 >>SONYA LITTLE: It would be the same process that we just
05:10:25 went through.
05:10:26 Yes, sir.
05:10:26 >>GUIDO MANISCALCO: Thank you.
05:10:28 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Mrs. Montelione.
05:10:29 >>LISA MONTELIONE: Thank you.
05:10:31 To your point, Councilman Maniscalco, it wasn't our decision
05:10:36 to use BP money to build or rebuild Julian B. Lane park.
05:10:43 It was the administration's.
05:10:45 So we can only vote on whether to use it or not if the
05:10:48 administration brings it to us.
05:10:50 We cannot say, just like we couldn't this time, the money
05:10:55 that we received from BP is going to be used for X, Y or Z.
05:11:00 That is not up to us.
05:11:03 Correct?
05:11:03 >>SONYA LITTLE: Council has to approve whatever --
05:11:06 >>LISA MONTELIONE: We have to approve it.
05:11:07 >>SONYA LITTLE: Yes.
05:11:09 >>LISA MONTELIONE: Or deny it.
05:11:11 >>SONYA LITTLE: Right.
05:11:13 >>LISA MONTELIONE: But it is not up to us to be able to
05:11:15 access that money.
05:11:16 So we can't allocate it anywhere.
05:11:20 If it's not in the budget that comes to us annually for a
05:11:27 review and approval, because that's what it is.
05:11:31 We don't develop the budget.
05:11:33 The money would have to be in there.
05:11:35 The administration develops that budget.
05:11:37 >>SONYA LITTLE: Yes, ma'am.
05:11:39 >>LISA MONTELIONE: So I have always been very supportive of
05:11:43 stormwater -- not supportive of stormwater.
05:11:49 Let me take that back.
05:11:52 Too many commercials in there.
05:11:53 >>MIKE SUAREZ: She loves stormwater!
05:11:56 (Laughter).
05:11:57 >>LISA MONTELIONE: On the bicycle there.
05:12:02 But, you know, the issuance of the bonds that we just
05:12:08 approved this morning, this afternoon, whenever it was, for
05:12:12 Julian B. Lane, should have been for this.
05:12:17 I mean, we should have done that a long time ago.
05:12:20 The ability to issue bonds for stormwater has always been
05:12:23 there.
05:12:24 And, you know, rather than five years, most of us everybody
05:12:33 sitting here, rather than doing that five years ago and
05:12:36 avoiding some of the property damage, damage to vehicles,
05:12:40 and all of the issues that we have had over the past five
05:12:44 years, we did nothing, and then today we decided to spend
05:12:50 $40 million on a park.
05:12:52 I understand that this is $231 million.
05:12:56 >> 251.
05:13:01 >>LISA MONTELIONE: I'm sorry.
05:13:03 And 40 is just a drop in the proverbial bucket.
05:13:07 But coming on a difficult day.
05:13:13 So it's not going to be as easy a vote for me this time,
05:13:17 because I don't think that the city should go into this much
05:13:23 debt with the economic forecast kind of iffy at the moment.
05:13:32 And many predict that there's going to be another drought.
05:13:39 It may not be as bad as the one we just got through, but the
05:13:44 economic future is not looking, as you said earlier today,
05:13:48 as bright.
05:13:50 Thank you.
05:13:50 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Mr. Miranda.
05:13:52 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
05:13:56 El Nino, la Nina.
05:13:58 No one knows more than that.
05:14:01 Mr. Baird, I should say.
05:14:03 You all are going to look very smart, because we haven't had
05:14:06 a drought from 13, 14 years or so.
05:14:10 And you ain't going to have no rainfall, if you had the same
05:14:17 pipes you had today to the degree that you had last Sumner
05:14:20 July and August.
05:14:21 That's just a prediction.
05:14:22 Not mine.
05:14:22 The weather forecasters.
05:14:24 So for five or six years, it's going to be like this until
05:14:27 it turns around again, and it comes back.
05:14:32 And so it's going to look beautiful, because then we are
05:14:35 going to be tested, for a long time.
05:14:38 Not even through our finishing of this term.
05:14:43 The thing is that we must be diligent with money.
05:14:50 What is said here, you cannot borrow money from the fund
05:14:56 managers or whatever you are borrowing it from, hedge funds
05:14:59 or whatever they are doing, because you can't pay it back
05:15:02 like you pay off your house.
05:15:04 You make a payment.
05:15:06 Make an extra 200.
05:15:08 That 200 is interest free and brings it down.
05:15:10 You can't do that when you borrow this kind of money.
05:15:12 It doesn't allow you to do it.
05:15:15 You can say I want to borrow this money, and you would be
05:15:21 holy hell to get out of that contract unless you refinance
05:15:23 it again and again to lower the rate somewhere when somebody
05:15:26 else wants to buy to the get out of the high payment.
05:15:30 The problem is that when you borrow this kind of money, it
05:15:33 remains for a long period of time.
05:15:37 Not two months.
05:15:38 Not ten months.
05:15:39 Not five years.
05:15:40 I don't know what the number is, but it's somewhere in the
05:15:43 10 to 15 years.
05:15:44 So you will be stuck with this for a long time.
05:15:47 And then there's penalties that you have to pay, I believe,
05:15:50 if you pay it off earlier.
05:15:56 You make more payment, and then those individuals, that's
05:15:58 why somebody runs for president getting all the applause
05:16:02 because he's telling the public the facts and the other lady
05:16:04 is say, I want to do something but I can't.
05:16:07 That's the problem with that campaign.
05:16:12 It's got to change.
05:16:14 Everybody has got to be given a chance.
05:16:16 Liens, I saw that Cuban hotdog, which you call a Cuban
05:16:22 sandwich.
05:16:22 And guess what.
05:16:24 I'm not against it.
05:16:26 I said it earlier.
05:16:27 The majority average salary of this city is about 40 grand a
05:16:30 year.
05:16:31 What does that mean?
05:16:32 That means there's a lot of people, and this 15 to 20,000.
05:16:37 For every one that said 150 to 200,000, but it's a thousand
05:16:40 of them, and that's what worries me.
05:16:44 Not these guys.
05:16:45 Not me.
05:16:46 And certainly not you, Mr. Baird.
05:16:48 But the average citizen is stuck somewhere in that area, and
05:16:54 it means something to them.
05:16:55 I want to be able to give them some hope and something that
05:16:58 we can pay this and get it off their back.
05:17:02 And you are going to be here longer than me.
05:17:04 Maybe I'll be here longer than you.
05:17:11 No, if I'm hear longer than you.
05:17:19 And if there's a chance that we sell some of that it, the
05:17:23 City of Tampa is the only one prepared to do that, it's the
05:17:27 only way to get out.
05:17:29 You cannot continue to get into it and go forward.
05:17:34 And I understand that went from 700 something to 600
05:17:38 something.
05:17:38 Already when you add this back up, guess, what you are over
05:17:42 what it was before.
05:17:43 You are 800.
05:17:44 And those are the things that are troubling.
05:17:47 The city of Sacramento, they get it back -- in fact, the
05:17:50 state of New York has less population than the state of
05:17:55 Florida and has twice the budget of the State of Florida.
05:18:01 And they are necessary broke.
05:18:03 I don't want to get to that point.
05:18:04 Minneapolis, Sacramento, Miami, all of them in the same
05:18:09 financial shape.
05:18:10 I don't want to get to that point.
05:18:12 So call me what you want.
05:18:13 Call me cheap.
05:18:14 Call me prudent.
05:18:17 EL cheapo, whatever you want.
05:18:19 I don't want to get in debt to something I can't pay.
05:18:23 And it's my only gripe.
05:18:25 I believe the next three or four years you are going to have
05:18:27 the same thing that happened before because we haven't
05:18:30 learned.
05:18:32 Housing value has gone up so quick, people can't afford it.
05:18:36 The average can't afford it.
05:18:38 Housing rents are higher than what you would pay when you
05:18:42 bought the house.
05:18:44 So these are the things that I am looking at.
05:18:46 And I don't like to --
05:18:53 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Mr. Cohen.
05:18:55 >>HARRY COHEN: You know, I am not one that's able to
05:18:59 progress not indicate how much rain that's going to be over
05:19:01 the next couple of years, and I don't have a crystal ball
05:19:04 about what the economy is going to be like, whether we are
05:19:07 heading into a recession or whether or not the growth that
05:19:10 we have seen over the period since the 2008 recession is
05:19:14 going to continue.
05:19:16 I certainly could make an argument in both directions based
05:19:20 on some of the things that we see out there.
05:19:23 But this work has got to be -- it got to be done.
05:19:29 The economic base of this city is at risk if we do not start
05:19:34 addressing some of these problems.
05:19:36 And I want to just point out, when you went through the
05:19:40 division of where the different pockets are located, you
05:19:43 came to the $75 million for flooding alleviation between
05:19:48 Euclid and MacDill Air Force Base. You know, Mr. Tillou
05:19:58 gave us a handout this morning of MacDill Air Force base and
05:19:59 it's impact on our region and the 1.3 billion in gross
05:20:02 regional product and 13,000 jobs that exist in this region
05:20:06 because of the base, and I don't want to see us get into a
05:20:10 situation where the next time there's a round of base
05:20:13 closings we are on the list because we have not invested any
05:20:17 money in the infrastructure outside of the base itself, and
05:20:21 we have left it, and all of the arteries leading to the
05:20:25 accessible to this type of flooding.
05:20:27 I understand the risk in borrowing money to finance these
05:20:32 projects.
05:20:33 And I am uncomfortable about it.
05:20:35 But the fact of the matter is that if we don't make this
05:20:38 investment -- I have never maintained once that this is
05:20:42 going to solve all the street flooding, that this is going
05:20:45 to solve the problem completely.
05:20:47 I will tell anybody that asks, it's never going to solve the
05:20:50 problem completely.
05:20:52 But we have to at least solve what we can.
05:20:56 We have to at least make the investment that we can to make
05:20:59 it not as intrusive and as dangerous as this, because I
05:21:04 predict if we don't do it, we are going to pay the price
05:21:07 anyway, because property values are going to start to
05:21:10 decline, people are not going to continue to pay high prices
05:21:14 to live in an area where the government does not show the
05:21:17 resolve to deal with these types of infrastructure
05:21:20 challenges.
05:21:21 And I just think that we are at a critical point, we are
05:21:27 just about to come into the rainy season now, and another
05:21:30 summer like the one that we just had and a lack of any
05:21:36 action from us, I think it's a recipe for disaster, both
05:21:40 economically, and also in terms of people's real property
05:21:49 and what they have invested their life savings in being
05:21:52 devalued.
05:21:54 Nobody wants to spend $250 million on something that's not
05:21:58 going to provide pleasure and enhancement to life in this
05:22:03 community.
05:22:03 But in the same way that I voted earlier to put money into
05:22:07 the park, I don't think it's inconsistent to do both.
05:22:12 I think it's for invest in those amenities, and to also
05:22:16 invest in our infrastructure needs.
05:22:17 So, you know, I'm happy that we can put $20 million of CIT
05:22:22 money toward this.
05:22:24 Like I said earlier, if there's any chance of BP money, any
05:22:29 of it, a million dollars, being used to pay some of this
05:22:34 down, I'm for it.
05:22:37 But the main thing is we have just got to get started and
05:22:41 get some of this work underway.
05:22:45 The pictures that we are looking at on the screen are just
05:22:49 unacceptable way to continue to live.
05:22:52 And I think the people are tired of taking their life into
05:22:59 their hands every time they find themselves in their car and
05:23:03 it starts to rain.
05:23:04 So I hope that this time we will have a more successful
05:23:11 attempt at doing this.
05:23:12 I'm certainly going to support it.
05:23:13 And I hope that everyone else will, too.
05:23:16 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Mr. Maniscalco.
05:23:19 >>GUIDO MANISCALCO: Thank you.
05:23:20 Because it's sunshine we can't talk to each other.
05:23:23 Of course here we have this public discussion.
05:23:26 And I understand what Councilman Montelione and Councilman
05:23:29 Miranda have brought up, bonding out all this money, and all
05:23:34 this debt and whatnot.
05:23:36 You know, another idea that I have -- and this is peanuts
05:23:40 compared to the grand scale of things city-wide -- was we
05:23:43 have SWFWMD money, 18.5 million, dot money, and if we don't
05:23:49 do something we are going to lose it.
05:23:51 Now, way think is some of the worst flooding in Tampa is the
05:23:56 upper peninsula of Henderson and Dale Mabry, and down
05:23:59 Kennedy Boulevard, Lois, all that.
05:24:01 A lot of complaints I received last summer were from thoses
05:24:03 areas.
05:24:04 A lot of homes that were damaged were from those areas,
05:24:07 Beach Park, sun set park.
05:24:08 So my thought was if you don't bond everything out for 30
05:24:13 years, you can look at C.I.T. money of $20 million.
05:24:19 That 18.5 million, 3 million in dot, and right thereby fund
05:24:24 that upper peninsula.
05:24:26 At least have the option of starting, and what I think is
05:24:30 some of the worst areas, and you don't raise any fees, and
05:24:33 you don't put any taxes, you know that was my thought.
05:24:39 As far as the rest council I don't know. You have heard it
05:24:41 because I brought it up to you all.
05:24:43 But that was just an idea that I had put up there.
05:24:46 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Is there anyone else that would like to
05:24:50 comment before I make my comments?
05:24:52 I want to make sure.
05:24:53 Mr. Reddick.
05:24:54 >>FRANK REDDICK: What we are doing today, are we just
05:24:57 voting to set a public hearing?
05:24:59 That's what we are doing?
05:25:01 >>MIKE SUAREZ: I believe that's correct.
05:25:02 Ms. McLean?
05:25:05 >>JAN MCLEAN: Yes, sir.
05:25:07 Office of city attorney.
05:25:08 You are voting today to direct the staff to move forward,
05:25:11 prepare the resolution, the notices that need to be mailed
05:25:15 out, the publications that need to be put in the newspaper
05:25:19 for the public hearing for your consideration in August of
05:25:23 whether to adopt the improvement assessment at that time or
05:25:26 not.
05:25:26 >>FRANK REDDICK: And once we have that public hearing, I
05:25:30 saw the screen.
05:25:31 We will be voting on at night in a public hearing whether to
05:25:36 adopt this proposal, come back on a separate day?
05:25:41 >>JAN MCLEAN: We will come back for the public hearing on
05:25:44 August the 256th for your consideration of the
05:25:47 improvements assessment.
05:25:50 Oh, at this point, daytime.
05:25:54 >>FRANK REDDICK: Okay.
05:26:00 Yes, I would support moving forward to have a public
05:26:04 hearing, giving the public the right to speak.
05:26:16 But no guarantee I am going to support this proposal.
05:26:18 But I am going to make no commitment of supporting the
05:26:21 proposal.
05:26:22 And then I would do that today to grant the public hearing.
05:26:26 >>MIKE SUAREZ: We have a motion from Mr. Reddick to have
05:26:29 the staff prepare the resolution and notices for the August
05:26:32 public hearing for the improvement assessment.
05:26:34 Defensive a second?
05:26:36 >>CHARLIE MIRANDA: I'll second that with setting up public
05:26:39 hearings.
05:26:40 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Second from Mr. Miranda.
05:26:41 All in favor of that motion?
05:26:43 Any opposed?
05:26:45 Thank you.
05:26:46 Thank you, staff, for being here and for being so patient.
05:26:49 Okay.
05:26:52 Mr. Baird, if you want to go ahead and help us a little bit
05:26:56 on the communications strategies, number 73.
05:26:59 And Ms. Duncan, I apologize.
05:27:02 We are going to try to get you.
05:27:03 We may move a couple of yours afterwards so we can do it.
05:27:07 And then haven't we'll get Mr. Baird really quick.
05:27:11 Because I know he's going to be very quick.
05:27:12 >>BRAD BAIRD: Public works administrator.
05:27:21 Councilwoman Capin wanted a report on what we have in place
05:27:28 in terms of stormwater flooding, communications, and then
05:27:31 what improvements we can make in the future.
05:27:34 So I'll go through real quickly in place, the items that are
05:27:42 in place at this point.
05:27:44 First, and foremost, we always stand up the emergency
05:27:48 operations center for major weather events, similar to what
05:27:53 happened last August.
05:27:59 Severe weather reports are issued daily.
05:28:01 For 15 days last August the mayor issued 56, TPD issued 42,
05:28:06 we issued 126 on Facebook.
05:28:09 We issued 8 press releases in that time covering things like
05:28:13 sandbags, how to report flooding, debris pickup, flood map
05:28:17 information, Alert Tampa sign-up and social media
05:28:20 information.
05:28:21 We hold press conferences, media interviews, and weekly we
05:28:25 send out weekly view e-mails on a daily basis.
05:28:29 We reach 30,000 people through Alert Tampa.
05:28:33 Social media and Twitter we are over 130,000 followers from
05:28:39 five accounts including the mayor's account.
05:28:43 And then Facebook, we daily reach 33,000 during severe
05:28:47 weather.
05:28:48 And that's from four different areas.
05:28:50 We have a realtime map on the website that we keep
05:28:53 up-to-date minute by minute.
05:28:56 With TPD personnel on-site of people calling 911.
05:29:03 We prestage barricades at flooding locations and finally
05:29:10 provide two locations so citizens can get sandbags.
05:29:14 The proposed improvements on the realtime map, we have
05:29:19 trained more people to take calls.
05:29:22 A lot of those calls come in through the stormwater number.
05:29:25 So we have trained those personnel.
05:29:27 That number is 274-3101.
05:29:30 We have approved the prestaging barricades by using that
05:29:33 flood map data.
05:29:35 We are researching a third location for sandbags as two of
05:29:39 the previous third locations flooded.
05:29:42 We ensure 24-48 hours notice for sandbags ahead of the storm
05:29:47 event.
05:29:48 For people are using the WAZE applications on traffic.
05:29:53 And finally, future smart city efforts will include realtime
05:29:58 information on flooded streets.
05:30:02 Also, the sandbags last year, we distributed over 33,000
05:30:06 sandbags.
05:30:08 I want to point out, though, that other methods besides
05:30:11 sandbags work a lot better.
05:30:16 If you are, for instance, trying to protect a garage, use
05:30:20 visqueen with the sandbags to keep the water out.
05:30:23 If you have low windows, duct tape works way better than
05:30:27 sandbags around those windows.
05:30:29 As well as caulk and insulating foam also work much better
05:30:33 around doors.
05:30:34 So there are other options.
05:30:38 And then the locations of the sandbag locations are Bobby
05:30:43 Hicks pool, 4201 west Mango, and Jackson Heights playground
05:30:48 at 3310 east Lake Avenue.
05:30:52 Do you have any questions?
05:30:53 >>LISA MONTELIONE: Is there a possibility of having
05:30:58 additional sandbag locations?
05:31:00 Because having only those two locations for a lot of people,
05:31:05 it's really hard to get there.
05:31:09 And especially we know the areas that flood.
05:31:12 So having locations, maybe not in the flood zones wherein
05:31:19 they flood, you won't be able to get to them, but to where
05:31:24 the flooding actually happens?
05:31:28 >>BRAD BAIRD: Yes, ma'am.
05:31:28 Charissa Bills at Parks Department is working on that.
05:31:34 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Any other comments or questions on this
05:31:37 item?
05:31:38 Thank you for your patience
05:31:39 Mrs. Duncan.
05:31:40 Can you come up and talk about item number 71?
05:31:44 We are going to be skip around a little bit.
05:31:46 71 which of course deals with the 34th street corridor.
05:31:49 >>JEAN DUNCAN: Yes, sir.
05:31:53 71.
05:31:53 >>FRANK REDDICK: Let me suggest that we table that report.
05:32:09 I would rather it be done rather than this time of day,
05:32:16 right now.
05:32:20 June 2nd would be fine.
05:32:22 Are under staff reports if you can do it.
05:32:25 >>JEAN DUNCAN: Yes, sir.
05:32:27 >>FRANK REDDICK: Because that's a major infrastructure
05:32:29 change.
05:32:30 I really want the public to be able to hear that part of it.
05:32:35 Motion by Mr. Reddick.
05:32:36 Second by Mr. Cohen.
05:32:37 All in favor of that motion?
05:32:39 Any opposed?
05:32:40 That's June 2nd under staff reports.
05:32:42 Thank you, sir.
05:32:44 We also have the Trask street road project.
05:32:48 >>LISA MONTELIONE: There was a gentleman here.
05:32:52 And he has a business on Cass Street.
05:32:56 He was the same gentleman for this report.
05:33:01 And he flew in from Ohio to hear this.
05:33:05 And I know he had been coming in and out.
05:33:07 I don't know if he's left now.
05:33:10 Or not.
05:33:11 Or if he's out in the hallway or something.
05:33:13 >>MIKE SUAREZ: He has not been here for a while so my guess
05:33:17 is he might have left already.
05:33:21 Well, if we have a motion to move that, we can.
05:33:24 >>LISA MONTELIONE: Go ahead and give the report.
05:33:29 He was just disappointed that he wouldn't be able to speak
05:33:31 or have an opportunity to speak until after, you know, the
05:33:35 same as last time.
05:33:37 Apparently a miscommunication of his ability to speak.
05:33:41 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Okay.
05:33:43 >>JEAN DUNCAN: I do have my colleague, my director, whoever
05:33:49 is giving probably the more meaty part of this information
05:33:53 just right outside, to change the order, I will go ahead and
05:33:57 alert him that we are ready to go.
05:33:59 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Delegation is greatly appreciated.
05:34:04 >>HARRY COHEN: I would like to make a motion to continue 68
05:34:07 to June 23rd under staff reports.
05:34:08 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Motion by Mr. Cohen.
05:34:10 Second by Mr. Reddick.
05:34:11 All in favor of that motion?
05:34:13 Any opposed?
05:34:14 Thank you.
05:34:21 >>JEAN DUNCAN: Stormwater transportation services.
05:34:23 This is item number 72.
05:34:24 I am going to give a be very brief intro, a little bit of
05:34:28 background, that I thought might be helpful for getting the
05:34:33 information, and my colleague director will fill in on the
05:34:38 other details of the rest of this motion.
05:34:43 Basically, the InVision process start add few years ago when
05:34:49 we had quite a bit of public outreach during that process,
05:34:52 for the purpose of looking at the downtown core, a 2-mile
05:34:55 radius of the downtown and developed planning to make some
05:34:59 decisions in terms of projects and infrastructure to really
05:35:03 make the river the center of our city.
05:35:06 The two-waying of Cass and Tyler was conceptualized during
05:35:11 this process.
05:35:12 And I do want to add, as I said, quite a bit of public
05:35:15 outreach, charrettes for, four large community forums,
05:35:21 social media, interaction, and a three day community
05:35:25 designed workshop for many of these specific items through
05:35:28 public comments.
05:35:30 So the recommendation of that InVision center plan in 2012
05:35:35 was basically to create open space linkages, and
05:35:39 specifically in order to connect the area of the downtown
05:35:43 core to the surrounding areas, Cass and Tyler streets are
05:35:47 recommended to be two Lane function with enhanced
05:35:52 streetscape in place, and bike facilities for across and the
05:36:00 Hillsborough River.
05:36:01 The other it, called the green cycle track.
05:36:06 We heard loud and clear through public engagement that there
05:36:09 were two major comments that the public was legislate us
05:36:14 nobody about.
05:36:15 One was they wanted safe and accessible bicycle connection
05:36:19 to the Tampa Riverwalk, and the other was they wanted to a
05:36:23 safe connection to the neighborhood interface with the
05:36:26 downtown core.
05:36:27 I just want to mention that this 2001-way protected bicycle
05:36:32 track is the very first 2001-way cycle track on a two-way
05:36:36 street in the State of Florida.
05:36:37 So we are very proud of this first step we are taking.
05:36:41 So of what kicked off the implementation of this planning
05:36:45 was in July 2012, the city released an RFP to get some
05:36:52 development in the downtown CRA area, and the
05:36:57 reconfiguration of Cass and Tyler street into a two-way grid
05:37:01 system was part of the proposed development and at the time
05:37:07 Tampa residents of the Riverwalk.
05:37:09 It has now changed hands and is referred to AER in the arts
05:37:13 district, still a very active project.
05:37:16 With that RFP, the city received the interest of the
05:37:19 development community and looked at the existing major water
05:37:23 line project and storm water projects with Cypress Street
05:37:28 decided to package the street projects together, the
05:37:32 two-waying of Cass and Tyler, the cycle track RS, the water
05:37:37 main projects and the cypress outfall project, to package
05:37:41 those together under the UCAP prom and at that time our
05:37:47 administration colleague took the lead on manage that
05:37:51 contract with the couple and carried out extensive public
05:37:53 engagement for the design and construction phases of this
05:37:57 project.
05:37:58 And I would like to let Mike share a little bit with you
05:38:01 about if design phase and construction phase, communications
05:38:04 that occurred with the business and residential community.
05:38:07 >> MIKE CHUCRAN: Mike Chucran, contract administration,
05:38:24 during the two-way project on Cass Tyler and also about the
05:38:28 construction concrete parking along Cass and Tyler street.
05:38:31 Ucap contractor, they have a public involvement team that
05:38:37 has been actively involved during the design, the
05:38:41 preconstruction and post construction phases.
05:38:46 15 meetings with downtown key stakeholders such as Straz,
05:38:50 Tampa Prep, all the hotels, courthouse, 707 parking,
05:38:54 Methodist church, during the design phase of this project as
05:38:59 they participate in design and review meetings in order to
05:39:01 raise the stakeholder concerns and issues.
05:39:05 They held and they continue to hold walking meetings along
05:39:09 the Cass Tyler corridor.
05:39:12 In the meetings they discuss the overall project and work
05:39:14 occurring in that particular business owner -- they discuss
05:39:20 the actual project that may impact on that particular
05:39:26 business as they are progressing.
05:39:27 >>LISA MONTELIONE: So the gentleman that was here is the
05:39:32 owner of one of these businesses and he said that he was not
05:39:35 contacted.
05:39:35 >> I spoke to the public involvement manager.
05:39:41 She did say she spoke with him during the design phase
05:39:45 personally.
05:39:46 The question he raised was impact of the sidewalks.
05:39:49 That's the only question he raised.
05:39:51 Beyond that time during the walk-in meetings, she said the
05:39:55 face-to-face, walked into the store and talked to the people
05:39:58 inside.
05:39:59 So wasn't sure, I think it was the store manager, the
05:40:03 manager of the store.
05:40:04 So the person that was here at council, she spoke to him
05:40:07 once during the design phase.
05:40:09 During that time she hands out the materials on the project,
05:40:14 project maps, the fact sheet.
05:40:17 She has her card.
05:40:18 She has a cell phone she makes available to all stakeholders
05:40:22 24-7 and I have actually called her late at night on
05:40:25 weekends and early mornings and she answered.
05:40:28 >>LISA MONTELIONE: Perhaps there was maybe -- being
05:40:35 contacted once, she had a conversation with him once, it was
05:40:38 during the design phase.
05:40:40 So it was probably long before any of the work started.
05:40:48 Fine line between design stage and --
05:40:51 >>Are we are probably going back --
05:40:52 >>LISA MONTELIONE: And groundbreaking, let's call it.
05:40:54 >> Going back to previous last summertime thing.
05:40:59 I'm not sure about that.
05:41:00 She didn't give me a time that she had a face-to-face
05:41:03 meeting with the gentleman.
05:41:03 >>LISA MONTELIONE: So one conversation say nearly a year
05:41:08 ago.
05:41:08 >> Possibly.
05:41:10 >>LISA MONTELIONE: If I were the owner of the business,
05:41:13 there's a lot going on, are in a year, there is a
05:41:18 possibility that, you know, you forget that this is going to
05:41:22 happen.
05:41:23 Anybody that's not in this business or in the construction
05:41:26 business, you know, they don't see something happening,
05:41:29 maybe they think that the project got canceled, or it's not
05:41:33 going to happen in the one year.
05:41:36 So as a suggestion, I would step up those efforts and meet
05:41:42 more than once with the actual property owner, because --
05:41:47 and just walking in and talking to a manager oftentimes the
05:41:51 employee of the owner are maybe not going to take the issue
05:41:59 as seriously as the owner would.
05:42:02 >> Also, part of her meetings with all the business owners,
05:42:08 she handed her card with the cell phone number, she also
05:42:11 gave them the option to opt in to receive weekly e-mail
05:42:14 updates.
05:42:15 Roughly half the businesses accepted that and took part in
05:42:18 the opted in to do that.
05:42:20 >>LISA MONTELIONE: Do you know if this business did?
05:42:22 >> They did not.
05:42:23 >>LISA MONTELIONE: Thank you.
05:42:25 >> Also, a little more about some of the other outreach that
05:42:31 they did do.
05:42:34 In talking with these businesses, in order to incorporate
05:42:36 the construction, to get particular events such as
05:42:43 Gasparilla or downtown events, the Amalie, any events going
05:42:48 on, they try to coordinate with the owners. If there's
05:42:51 anything they can do to help alleviate any issues with those
05:42:53 events and the construction.
05:42:56 They also gave presentations to Hillsborough County Planning
05:42:59 Commission and also the Tampa Downtown Partnership.
05:43:02 The public manager, or public involvement manager, the Tampa
05:43:07 Downtown Partnership Monday morning memo to be all the
05:43:10 businesses downtown.
05:43:11 >>LISA MONTELIONE: All the businesses who opt in to
05:43:17 receive -- but not all the businesses downtown.
05:43:20 >> Right.
05:43:27 Is this still working?
05:43:29 >> I hope so.
05:43:30 It's been a long day.
05:44:00 (microphone feedback).
05:44:02 >> Thank you.
05:44:03 >>LISA MONTELIONE: Put it on the top.
05:44:06 >> Okay.
05:44:08 So what this slide shows is your preconstruction and post
05:44:11 construction, public on-street parking on Cass and Tyler
05:44:16 street.
05:44:17 You can see on Cass Street itself, there is preconstruction
05:44:20 was 37.
05:44:21 Post construction, 36.
05:44:23 So the net loss of 1.
05:44:25 Tyler street 52.
05:44:27 Post construction 50. Net loss of two spaces.
05:44:31 So we added additional six spaces that didn't exist on
05:44:35 Florida.
05:44:35 So that was a net increase of 6.
05:44:38 Overall net parking along Cass-Tyler plus 3.
05:44:42 Also add the motorcycle parking.
05:44:44 That was a significant increase of motorcycle parking up to
05:44:47 18 additional motorcycle parking spaces.
05:44:53 Also, I would like to add, the construction along Franklin
05:45:02 Street, development has an impact on some of the parking
05:45:05 right around there.
05:45:06 So on Cass Street, they are eating five -- five spaces.
05:45:14 On Tyler street eating up 8 spaces.
05:45:17 On Florida Avenue they are eating up four.
05:45:19 So as far as the region right around the businesses, they
05:45:22 are eating up quite a few spaces with that construction.
05:45:26 On another positive note, the construction that's going up,
05:45:31 that residential high-rise, that is going to be adding 418
05:45:35 parking spaces, in that parking garage.
05:45:37 275 for residents, 20 for building and retail, and
05:45:41 additional 23 for other.
05:45:43 So there will be additional parking there in that immediate
05:45:45 area.
05:45:53 Any questions?
05:45:53 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Any questions by council?
05:45:58 Okay.
05:45:58 I appreciate it.
05:46:00 Okay.
05:46:01 Mrs. Duncan, I appreciate your patience.
05:46:03 We are sorry, it was a very strange amount of stuff that we
05:46:07 had to do today.
05:46:09 We are now onto information reports and new business by
05:46:13 council members.
05:46:15 Mr. Reddick, do you have any new business are?
05:46:17 >>FRANK REDDICK: Yes, sir, thank you.
05:46:21 Two things.
05:46:22 I think we all have probably read the story about WalMart
05:46:29 and the security issue that they are having over there.
05:46:35 I am going to ask TPD to appear before council on June
05:46:43 7th under staff reports.
05:46:46 I am going to request that they come prepared to tell us how
05:46:49 many calls they received from WalMart over a one-year span
05:46:56 within the last year.
05:47:03 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Any WalMart in the city limits are?
05:47:06 >>FRANK REDDICK: In the city limits especially one on
05:47:09 Hillsborough area.
05:47:10 Two, what were the nature of calls?
05:47:12 Third, how many arrests were made based on those calls?
05:47:15 >>HARRY COHEN: Second.
05:47:17 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Motion from Mr. Reddick.
05:47:19 Second by Mr. Cohen.
05:47:20 All in favor of that motion?
05:47:24 >>FRANK REDDICK: The last item, I want to request on June
05:47:28 23rd, an organization by the name of McClain protection
05:47:36 services, what they are doing is change in neighborhood
05:47:43 communities, they give a ten minute presentation to the
05:47:45 council on June 23rd at 9:00 a.m.
05:47:49 At 10 a.m., whatever it is.
05:47:51 >>MIKE SUAREZ: I have a motion from Mr. Reddick.
05:47:54 Do you have a question on that motion?
05:47:55 >>LISA MONTELIONE: Is this presentation on the work that
05:47:59 they are doing?
05:48:00 Or is it a presentation on the business that they have?
05:48:04 >>FRANK REDDICK: The work they are doing.
05:48:06 >>LISA MONTELIONE: In the community.
05:48:09 It's just unusual.
05:48:10 It's usually a nonprofit.
05:48:11 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Is that a second, also?
05:48:14 >>LISA MONTELIONE: Yes.
05:48:15 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Motion by Mr. Reddick.
05:48:17 Second by Mrs. Montelione.
05:48:18 All in favor?
05:48:20 Thank you, Mr. Reddick.
05:48:21 Mr. Cohen, I enough to several.
05:48:23 >>HARRY COHEN: I have several, because some of the
05:48:26 departing council members asked me to make these motions for
05:48:28 them.
05:48:30 And I will start with this one from Councilwoman Capin.
05:48:35 I would like to make a motion to prepare commendations to
05:48:37 the following Boy Scouts in recognition of their
05:48:41 accomplishment of reaching the rank of Eagle Scout.
05:48:44 Mrs. Marshall, I have a copy of this for you with names so
05:48:47 you won't have to write as I say them.
05:48:51 But they are Jonathan namegot, Cam Goodman, Aiden couple,
05:48:56 Matthew Boyd, Benjamin Miller, Conor Danahey, Judge
05:49:00 Culpepper, Bryan Bartlett, and those commendations will be
05:49:04 presented at the Eagle Scouts at their honor ceremony.
05:49:09 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Motion by Mr. Cohen.
05:49:11 Second by Mrs. Montelione.
05:49:12 All in favor of that motion? Any opposed?
05:49:14 Thank you.
05:49:15 >>HARRY COHEN: I have a motion from Councilman Miranda
05:49:18 asking that we present a commendation to Carry The Load, a
05:49:22 nonprofit started by two former Navy seal with the purpose
05:49:26 of restoring the true meaning of Memorial Day by connecting
05:49:29 Americans who sacrificed as veterans, military members and
05:49:33 first responders.
05:49:34 This event provides a proactive opportunity to honor the
05:49:37 service of colleagues, families and friends, and this will
05:49:40 be presented not here at council but on May 30th at the
05:49:46 Carry The Load event.
05:49:46 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Motion by Mr. Cohen.
05:49:49 Second from Mr. Maniscalco.
05:49:52 All in favor of that motion?
05:49:54 Okay.
05:49:54 >>HARRY COHEN: Finally, on my own behalf, I would like to
05:50:00 make a motion for commendation to accounting technician 1,
05:50:05 Christine Jackson, on June 2nd, 2016 at our City Council
05:50:10 meeting.
05:50:11 Christine, who has served in numerous positions in the city,
05:50:13 is retiring after more than 35 years of service.
05:50:16 >>MIKE SUAREZ: I have a motion by Mr. Cohen, a second from
05:50:19 Mr. Reddick.
05:50:20 All in favor of that motion? Any opposed?
05:50:24 Mr. Cohen, was there another commendation for Mr. Black for
05:50:29 accommodation for next week?
05:50:31 >>HARRY COHEN I will tell you what, I will find that and
05:50:33 come back to me.
05:50:39 Let me check.
05:50:41 I can see if it's already on the agenda.
05:50:43 I apologize.
05:50:43 Mr. Maniscalco, any new business?
05:50:46 >>GUIDO MANISCALCO: Yes, sir, I have one item.
05:50:48 And that is commendation recognizing June 2nd to be
05:50:51 presented at our June 2nd meeting as gun violence
05:50:54 awareness day, and congratulating moms in action for gun
05:51:00 sense in America which promotes common sense laws and help
05:51:02 raise awareness to make our streets safer.
05:51:04 >>HARRY COHEN: Second.
05:51:07 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Motion by Mr. Maniscalco.
05:51:08 Second from Mr. Cohen.
05:51:10 All in favor?
05:51:11 Okay.
05:51:12 Anything else?
05:51:15 >>GUIDO MANISCALCO: No, sir.
05:51:17 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Mrs. Montelione, any new business?
05:51:20 >>LISA MONTELIONE: I don't have a piece of new business,
05:51:22 but there is something that I wanted to share, and I
05:51:24 actually got this from one of Councilman Reddick's
05:51:28 constituents.
05:51:29 He's in Ybor City.
05:51:31 And he says that most don't realize that Julian B. Lane was
05:51:35 designed by a famous iconic designer/architect, the museum
05:51:40 offed modern art in New York had an exhibition on his work,
05:51:44 and, yes, Mr. Suarez, he designed a park in New York City
05:51:50 named Central Park.
05:51:51 So he's a little upset that we are going to be demolishing
05:52:00 that famous architect's -- landscape architect's work and
05:52:05 that it will be coming off of a website of the cultural
05:52:09 landscape foundation whose duty it is to -- it's stewardship
05:52:17 through education, is their motto.
05:52:21 And that it is a cultural landscape, and their duty is to
05:52:31 protect cultural landscape.
05:52:39 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Any other comments or questions everybody?
05:52:41 >>LISA MONTELIONE: Not like the park over at Rivergate.
05:52:46 >>MIKE SUAREZ: Motion by Mr. Reddick, second by Mr. Cohen.
05:52:50 All in favor of that motion?
05:52:52 Any opposed?
05:52:53 Anyone else in the public like to be speak before this
05:52:54 council at this time?
05:52:56 If not, we are adjourned.
05:52:59 (City Council meeting adjourned).
05:59:56
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.