12-15-2009 CRA WorkshopCity of Clermont
WORKSHOP MINUTES
COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY
DECEMBER 15, 2009
The Clermont Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) met in a workshop on Tuesday, December 15,
2009 in the Council Chambers at City Hall. Mayor Turville called the workshop to order at 6:OOpm with
the following CRA Members present: Robert Thompson, Keith Mullins, Ray Goodgame, Keith Hogan,
Mary Joe Pfeiffer and Bob Bowman. Other City officials present were: City Manager Saunders, City
Attorney Mantzaris, City Clerk Ackroyd and Assistant City Manager Gray.
Review CRA Plan
Staff reviewed the proposed CRA Plan with the board members. It was clarified that CRA funds can only
be spent on items included in the CRA Plan.
Mayor Turville questioned the status of an entrance sign at the Lakefront and Hwy 50. City Manager
Saunders replied staff requested the Department of Transportation (DOT) to abandon the right of way
however DOT will give the City a right of way utilization permit for placement of an archway. The next
step would be to bring the conceptual plans to the CRA board for approval and then to Council for
approval.
Review Central Business District Incentive Plan
City Manager Saunders reviewed the criteria for the Facade Improvement Grant Program and the
Building Code Assistance Program. The plan is to have Council approval in January and then begin
accepting applications in February.
City Manager Saunders reviewed the Impact Fee Assistance and Building Permit Programs. Staff will
need an additional 30 days to finalize the criteria and determine targeted businesses on both of those
programs. The board discussed whether non-profits would be eligible to apply. The board agreed to add a
sentence to the plan that if an applicant does not meet the criteria, they can make a request to the CRA
Board for consideration.
Other
Mr. Thompson suggested lowering the percentage of alcohol sales to attract more restaurants. This is one
way to take a more active role in creating more traffic in the downtown area. Bob Bowman expressed
concern with safety and alcohol.
Bob Bowman suggested updating the city logo. Council Member Thompson noted the Council has
discussed branding the city to include a new website and logo.
Mr. Goodgame questioned the status of Bee's Auto. City Attorney Mantzaris stated he is working with
legal council to resolve. City Manager Saunders noted staff is proceeding with Code Enforcement action.
ADJOURN: With no further comments, the workshop was adjourned at 6:45pm.