Lealman CRA Plan
Lealman CRA Plan
Lealman CRA Plan
MIDWAY
CLEAR VISTA
ORANGE HILL
NOR-MAR
HILLTOP GROVE
HO
OAK RUN RIDGE
ER
N
MARINI & SALVATORE
ER
COMMUNITY
S
HIGHLAND GROVES
FRUIT HAVEN
AREA
HEINZ ANN PARK HEIGHTS
SUNNY LAWN MAGNOLIA PARK
RENWICK SHIEDERS
CISNEY
GREAT OAKS
BREVARD TERRACE
REDEVELOPMENT
CLEAR
MOHAWK PARK
HARRISON HILL INGALSBES
GROVE PARK VISTA THUNDERBIRD HILL
VIEW-
CARROLLS
DISSTO
PINE RIDGE ESTATES
LEALMAN
BRATCHERS FAIRFIELD HEIGHTS
PARSLEYS
PLAN
N
NORDEEN HEIGHTS
SAWGRASS ACRES
KAY’S GARDENS
SUNNY ACRES
HEBERT
GLEN RIDGE MANOR
BURNSIDE AT LELLMAN
SUNNY
FULTON HEIGHTS
LOWTHERTS FISHERS
ANTONDALE HOELDTKE GROVE JOE’S CREEK INDUSTRIAL
HARRIS PIONEER
SEVEN OAKS
BAUGHMANS WILSONS KERSEYS
ROYAL PALM HEIGHTS
WILSHIRE
ROMEO HEIGHTS
RECTOR'S GROVELAND BILTMORE TERRACE
VEZINA GROVES WEST BURNSIDE
Adopted June 7, 2016
SETCHELLS
HOELDTKE HEIGHTS
MCMILLIN'S CHOICE ORANGEWOOD HEIGHTS Amended on June 20, 2017 and
NORTONS
DUVAL PARK
WHIPPLES
KEEL ORANGEWOODLELLMAN HEIGHTS
ARCADIAN HEIGHTS
MOULTON HEIGHTS
NORTH MIDWAY
HEWITT’S LAKESIDE
March 12, 2019
We thank all those who contributed to create the Lealman Community Redevelopment Area Plan and in particular:
Lealman Community Redevelopment Area Advisory Committee
Ray Neri Board Associations (KPB, PAL, EMSAC, JWB, SCSB and TB) & Lealman Property Owner
James Roberto County Recycling, Inc., Lealman Business Owner & Resident
Gary Grooms Mesh Fabrications, Lealman Property & Business Owner
Sean Ingber Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital & Lealman Property Owner
Jorge Mercado DRS Laurel Technologies INC. & Lealman Property Owner
Cheryl DiCicco Local Non-Profit Director, Retired Principal & Lealman Property Owner
Steve Cleveland General Contractor & Adopt-a-Block Director
Dwayne Hawkins Crown Automotive Group, Lealman Business & Property Owner
Diane Plomatos Alps South, Executive Vice President
Pinellas County gratefully acknowledges the ongoing support from the community residents, business owners, employees, community
partners and local stakeholders during this planning process.
Table of Contents
List of Figures
Figure 1: Lealman Community Redevelopment Area..............................................................................................................................................2
Figure 2: Future Land Use .............................................................................................................................................................................................4
Figure 3: Current Zoning................................................................................................................................................................................................5
Figure 4: Target Areas.................................................................................................................................................................................................37
List of Tables
Table 1: Future Land Use and Zoning Composition...................................................................................................................................................3
Table 2: CRA TIF Revenue Projections 2017-2046.....................................................................................................................................................41
Table 3: Short-Term Tasks............................................................................................................................................................................................42
Appendix A: Legal Description – Lealman Community Redevelopment Area (163.362(1), F.S.) ______________________________________ 46
Appendix B: Comprehensive Plan Review ________________________________________________________________________________________ 48
Appendix C: Strategic Action Plan and Spending Budget__________________________________________________________________________ 52
Looking Back: a snapshot of Lealman’s
area history, physical conditions, existing
development character and needs for
revitalization.
1.0 Introduction 2.0 Statutory Requirements
The Community Redevelopment Area Plan (Plan) will serve as a Any area proposed as a Community Redevelopment Area
comprehensive framework for long-term development, economic must meet the standards and requirements of the Community
development, and redevelopment revitalization strategies to Redevelopment Act, Sub-sections 163.335 to 163.362, Florida
address blighted conditions and improve the overall quality of life Statutes. The process includes the preparation of a work program
in the Lealman Community Redevelopment Area (Area) over the and schedule, a legal description of the area to be designated, a
next 30 years. Guided by the community, and supported by data formal Finding of Necessity based upon survey and analysis, and
and analysis, the Plan will lay the foundation for the County, property the development of a Community Redevelopment Area (CRA)
owners, and developers setting forth specific expectations, roles, Plan that must conform to the comprehensive plan for the county
relationships, and participation (guidelines, standards, roles) by the or municipality as prepared by the local planning agency. The
public and private sector to ensure the successful redevelopment Plan must also be either consistent with the existing zoning and
of the Lealman CRA. While based on the most accurate data land use intensities and densities in the area or recommend
available, each of the identified strategies and their associated changes deemed appropriate to encourage the appropriate
costs in this Plan will require additional study, refinement and development. The Plan will propose a general work program and
action by the Community Redevelopment Agency (Agency) as time frame within which public and private resources may be used
specific projects are initiated and implemented. to accomplish rehabilitation and redevelopment, and provide
appropriate public resources. The Plan may also recommend
The Lealman CRA is generally bounded by the City of Pinellas land acquisition, disposal and redevelopment, if appropriate.
Park to the north, Kenneth City to the west, and the City of St. The Lealman CRA Plan is based on the Finding of Necessity (June
Petersburg to the south and east. The Lealman CRA is located in 2015) and proposes the methods by which those conditions will be
unincorporated Pinellas County and retains the same boundaries alleviated.
as the census designated place (CDP), Lealman, which was also
known as East Lealman until 2010.
1
Figure 1:
Lealman Community Redevelopment Area
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Leal man
Community Redevelopment Area
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Map Legend
~ Boundary Line
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Pinellas County Planning, April 2016
2
Table 1:
3.0 Community Redevelopment Agency Future Land Use and Zoning Composition
Future Land Use Acres Percent Existing Conditions Acres Percent
The Board of County Commission by its own action sits as the Residential Urban 500.3 19.81% 1,2,3 Family Residential (R-4) 533.6 21.13%
Pinellas Community Redevelopment Agency, and is responsible Residential Low 450.1 17.83% Single Family (6,000sf/min) (R-3) 402.6 15.94%
for administering programs and policies related to the Lealman
Residential Medium 321.7 12.74% Mobile Home Park (R-6) 231.0 9.15%
Community Redevelopment Area. It is anticipated that with
Commercial General
the approval of the CRA Plan, the Community Redevelopment 179.2 7.10% General Retail Commercial (C-2) 209.9 8.31%
Area will have a manager responsible for monitoring program Institutional 163.3 6.47% Agricultural Estate Residential (A-E) 152.9 6.06%
implementation and annual reporting. Until such time, a dedicated Industrial Limited 162.6 6.44% Light Manufacturing (M-1) 138.9 5.50%
Pinellas County staff person is administering all aspects of the Preservation 69.9 2.77% Commercial/Warehousing (C-3) 56.0 2.22%
Community Redevelopment Area. Transportation Utility 40.3 1.60% Public/Semi-Public (PSP) 36.1 1.43%
Residential Low - Med 29.9 1.18% Residential Planned Dev (RPD-20) 32.3 1.28%
4.0 Existing Regulatory Framework Water 21.5 0.85% Single Family (7,500sf/min) (R-2) 23.8 0.94%
4.1 Future Land Use and Zoning Recreation/Open Space 19.4 0.77% Heavy Manufacturing (M-2) 23.5 0.93%
Commercial Recreation 13.4 0.53% Residential Multi/Family (RM-12.5) 22.1 0.88%
The current Future Land Use Map calls for predominantly residential Residential Estate 12.6 0.50% Residential Multi/Family (RM-7.5) 21.4 0.85%
(single-family and multi-family) uses (50.4%), with commercial use Residential/Office/ 6.8 0.27% Residential Multi/Family (RM-10) 15.0 0.59%
along the primary corridors (7.2%). Adjacent to 34th Street/US- General
19, in the southeast portion of the Area, there are approximately Commercial 1.8 0.07% Institutional Limited (IL) 14.2 0.56%
162 acres of Industrial Limited (6.4%). There are approximately Neighborhood
Residential Office Ltd
182 acres of Public / Semi-Public and Recreation / Open Space 1.4 0.06% Residential Planned Dev (PRD-7.5) 14.0 0.55%
scattered throughout the Area with a large portion concentrated General Prof Office (P-1) 13.8 0.55%
in the northwest portion of the Area (7.2%). See Figure 2, next Residential Multi/Family (RM-5) 12.0 0.48%
page. Zoning designations vary, but primarily the area is zoned ROW/Misc. Acreage 530.8 21.02% Residential Planned Dev (RPD-12.5) 10.2 0.40%
for residential development (56.3%). Of the approximately 56.3% Preservation/Conservation (P-C) 7.9 0.31%
or 1,422 residentially zoned acres, more than 230 acres of that is Unknown Zoning (UZ) 6.9 0.27%
zoned for mobile home parks and 153 acres for agriculture estate
Residential Multi/Family (RM-15) 6.5 0.26%
development.
Neighborhood Commercial (C-1) 4.8 0.19%
Commercial development is found along the major corridors Rural-Residential (R-R) 1.6 0.06%
(10.7%) and Light and Heavy Manufacturing in the Joe’s Creek Limited Office (P-1A) 1.0 0.04%
Industrial District and along the southern portion of 34th Street/US-
19 and the CSX tracks (6.4%). Approximately 1.7% of the area is
zoned RPD-7.5/RPD-12.5. See Figure 3, page-5. ROW/Misc. Acreage 533 21.11%
3
Figure 2:
Future Land Use
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Community Redevelopment Area
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Map Legend
c:J Souflda,y Uno
_ Property Parcels
- GANDY BLVD
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Future Land Use Code
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Pinellas County Planning, April 2016
4
Figure 3:
Current Zoning
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Pinellas County Planning, April 2016
5
5.0 The Neighborhood upward range of $805.
This chapter offers a snapshot of the existing demographic and According to the 2014 American Community Survey, there are
socio-economic conditions, crime statistics, and housing inventory 8,849 occupied housing units. Of these units, 58.3% are owner
and conditions the Area. occupied and 41.7% renter occupied. This composition is
considerably different from the countywide composition of 65.5%
5.1 Population and Housing owner occupied and 34.5% renter occupied. In the study area,
the median home value is $68,100 and the median contract rent
The population of the study area is estimated at 20,740 persons (2.7%
is $805. Countywide, the median home value is $146,500 and the
of the countywide population of 925,030), with 8,906 households.
median monthly rent is $955. The median household income is
The average household size is 2.21 persons per household. Males
$30,263, considerably less than that of the countywide median
account for 48.8% of the population, with females representing
household income of $45,574. Within the study area, 27.1% of the
51.2%. The median age is 45.6 years. The study area population
population has an income equal to or below the poverty level.
is 79.9% White, 9.3% African-American, 7.9% Hispanic origin, 6.1%
In the past 12 months, 4.1% of the population received public
Asian and the remainder comprised of other races.
assistance income, 31.7% received Food Stamps/SNAP assistance
and 22.6% of the population had no health insurance coverage.
The Area is comprised of a mix of low-medium density, residential
development (6.22 du/acre), with commercial uses along the
major corridor of 34th Street/US-19, 49st Street, Haines Road, and 5.2 Development Character – Area Opportunities
sections of 28th Street and 54th Avenue. Interstate-275 forms the
The Lealman CRA has several assets that form the basis of a sound
eastern boundary, adjacent to Joe’s Creek Greenway Park which
redevelopment strategy. These assets include:
begins just east of 28th Street North and 42nd Avenue.
The Area contains an estimated 10,493 housing units. Approximately • Joe’s Creek Industrial Area Located in the southeast portion
46.6% of the housing units are classified as single-family detached of the CRA is the existing industrial district. Over the years,
housing, 1.7% is single-family attached housing and 26.6% mobile the district has maintained nearly full occupancy but more
home. The remaining 25.1% of the housing units are comprised of recently is experiencing increased vacancies and declining
multi-family units distributed fairly evenly in structures with 2 to 20+ structural conditions. In recent years, there has been some new
housing units. Almost half (49.5%) of the housing units were built investment, but in general, the industrial district struggles. With
between 1950 and 1970, with another 30.3% constructed between targeted redevelopment efforts, however, the CRA will focus
1970 and 1989. on targeted and complementary industry reinvestment to
establish the foundation for a unique, vibrant district linked to
Using the 2014 income estimates and standard finance guidelines the adjacent neighborhoods.
for housing affordability, it is determined that the average family
buying or renting within the CRA can afford housing units with a • Commercial Corridors There are multiple opportunities to bring
sale price of $60,526 and $90,789 (two to three times the annual reinvestment to the existing commercial corridors (54th Avenue,
household income) or rental units ranging from $630 to $832 per 49th Street, 28th Street 34th Street and Haines Road), some of
month (25-33 percent of monthly household income), respectively. which are currently underutilized and lacking a visual distinction
Current median monthly rental housing cost in the CRA is in the or transition from the adjacent residential neighborhoods. Using
6
new urbanism concepts such as, increased densities, mixed- The park includes a parking lot, pedestrian bridges connecting
use infill, development standards, and Complete Streets design the pedestrian trail around a picturesque pond area and three
along commercial corridors will facilitate predictable built educational kiosks/observation platforms ideal for observing
outcomes with a focus on the public realm and will enable wildlife in the Creek. Recently, the County acquired adjacent
safe access for all users. By incorporating such methodologies land and has begun the design process to expand the park to
and strengthening the adjacent residential network, a more include both passive and active amenities.
sustainable business economy will be nurtured
• Fred Marquis Pinellas Trail Approximately 87 miles of
• Lealman Heights The 7.2 acre, Lealman Heights property constructed trail facilities runs throughout Pinellas County.
is located within the Innovation District of the CRA and was The opportunity to connect the Area to the existing trail offers
acquired in 2016 by the County, in partnership with the Housing opportunities for the CRA to create a functional and safe
Finance Authority of Pinellas County. In the short term, the non- pedestrian and bicycle network by implementing existing
residential buildings will offer affordable space to community condition improvements, new development standards and
service providers focused on the needs of Lealman residents. extending the existing bicycle and pedestrian network as
The existing residential units will be renovated and leased for proposed by Pinellas County, Kenneth City and the Metropolitan
rents comparable to those in the area with a focus on providing Planning Organization. The proposed trail extensions would
workforce housing to residents who are also employed within create alignment following the bank of Joe's Creek through
the Area. The long-term vision for the property has not yet Lealman area. Continuing to treat Joe’s Creek as a community
been determined; however, it is expected that it will provide amenity would enhance the livability and quality of life in many
opportunities for a mix of housing, employment and commercial adjacent areas.
uses and act as a catalyst for additional reinvestment of the
Area. • Schools Four schools are located in the study area (Lealman
Avenue Elementary School, Lealman Innovation Academy,
• Parks, Recreation and Open Space Two county owned parks The Broach School of St. Petersburg and Windsor Prep). There
and recreation areas are found within the study area: Lealman are opportunities to provide increased curricula and linkages
Neighborhood Park and the Joe’s Creek Greenway Park which with the community to provide a full range of childhood to
includes an on-site trail. Opportunities for future parks and open adult education opportunities to serve residents. In the long
space include expanding upon the Joe’s Creek Greenway term, there could be partnership opportunities to create a new
Park, Joe’s Creek Industrial area and the Innovation District. education/training campus in the Lealman CRA.
Of particular note is the 38-acre Joe’s Creek Greenway Park • Community Facilities Pinellas County operates and partners
which is part of the Joe’s Creek Watershed located in south- with a variety of community service organizations providing
central Pinellas County. The creek currently begins just east a range of programs offering housing, employment, financial
of 28th Street North and 42nd Avenue and flows westward. and medical services in the Area. There is a need for additional
As part of a county led project to restore wildlife habitat community services in the Lealman CRA, and the demand is
and improve water quality in Joe's Creek, it has also been expected to increase and diversify, especially as redevelopment
established as a community asset. The park is a habitat for a occurs. In an effort to meet such demands, the County, in
variety of endangered, threatened and rare animal species. partnership with the Housing Finance Authority of Pinellas
7
County acquired the Lealman Heights property which affords desired destinations nor will they meet future demands due to a
the opportunity to continue meeting current community combination of factors that include lacking service availability
needs as well as crafting a future redevelopment opportunity and frequency. The transit level of service of 30 minute headways
that will be vital for the Area. is considered average for Pinellas County, however, many of the
trips riders take require a transfer, which ultimately increases the
5.3 Transportation overall travel time. Lastly, there are noted deficiencies of sidewalks
and bus stop amenities.
Street patterns in the Area are impeded by two primary obstacles;
Joe’s Creek, running east to west, and the CSX Rail Road which The 54th Avenue North, 49 Street North, and part of U.S. Hwy
runs diagonally through the community from the southeast to the 19 (34th Street North) corridors are currently served by Pinellas
northwest. Both of these features were in place when the area Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) Bus #’s 75, 52, 97 and 19. These
was being platted in the 1920’s, resulting in a very limited number buses frequent each stop about every 20 minutes to one hour.
of roadways that run from one edge in the community to the Haines Road, a major commercial corridor, is not being served
other edge. The three primary corridors in the Area are signalized by the PSTA bus system. While some limited bus service does exist
arterial streets – 49th Street N, 54th Avenue N, and 34th Street/US- within the Study area, the availability and frequency of services
19 all of which operate at a B or C level of service. Haines Road are not adequate to serve the existing and future needs of the
which also transects the CRA on the east side is a signalized major residents of this area. The lack of sidewalks in residential areas
collector, operating at a level of service D. hampers residents’ safe accessibility to the bus system.
The rail line that bisects the Area is a functioning freight line Transit service is provided by PSTA on three local bus routes
operated by CSX that stretches from downtown St. Petersburg, and one commuter service through the study area. The PSTA
north through Pinellas County to downtown Clearwater. In recent Bus Route 75 runs along 54th Avenue N with approximately 60
months, there have been indicators that there may be a potential minute headways. Route 52 runs along 49th Street N, between
use of the rail line for passenger-commuter service connecting Downtown St. Petersburg and Downtown Clearwater, at 25-35
north-south Pinellas County as well as, the entire Tampa Bay minute headways. Route 97 is a commuter service along 49th
area. Such a change would be a substantial transportation and Street accessible from the northern portion at headways between
economic development benefit to the Area. 30 and 60 minutes depending on the connection and time of
day. And finally, Route 19 travels north/south along 34th Street
The current conditions of local streets within the CRA are evaluated N/US-19 between St. Petersburg and Tarpon Spring at 20 to 30
by the County’s Pavement Condition Rating Scale of 0 to 100, minutes headways. It should be noted that Haines Road, a major
with a rating of 100 indicating good roadway conditions and 0 commercial corridor, is not being served by any PSTA service.
indicating failing or poor conditions. Of the roadway segments
evaluated within the CRA, 8% have a rating of ‘Poor’ and 29% 6.0 Need for Redevelopment (163.362(1), F.S.)
of only ‘Fair.’ The remaining roadway segments have ratings of
‘Good’ or higher. The Finding of Necessity for creating the Lealman Community
Redevelopment Area identified and documented persistent
While the transit routes provide access through the Lealman conditions in the Lealman Area that are consistent with the
CRA, there have been concerns raised by residents that the definition of blight contained in Section 163.340(8)(a-i), Florida
routes do not meet existing needs to adequately link residents to Statutes. Government maintained demographic and economic
8
statistics highlight a prevailing level of enduring economic distress. • Prevalence of un-permitted living units and other similar
Low per capita income, high poverty rates, high unemployment additions to the existing housing stock that is inconsistent with
rate, low educational attainment levels, lower median home zoning regulations.
values compared to the County are strong indicators of this d. Unsanitary or Unsafe Conditions (163.340(8)(d), F.S.)
distress. The distressed economic conditions combined with
the deteriorated physical environment confirm the continued • Below standard or lack of adequate street lighting poses
existence of blight. The following is a summary of findings for the nine crime and safety risks.
conditions, supporting the declaration of blight for the Study Area: • Pedestrian and bicycle paths only exist along major roads
and along a few side streets.
a. Defective/inadequate Transportation Facilities (163.340(8)(a), F.S.) • Abundant presence of poorly functioning, open drainage
• Restricted access to the study area due to Joe’s Creek and systems on residential streets.
the CSX Rail Road. • Existing street drainage ditches in some areas reach 6ft in
• Overabundance of paved parking lots facing streets and a depth, impeding pedestrian access to residential units and
lack of paved parking to serve some businesses. creates significant safety issues, especially during times of
significant rainfall.
• 37% of roadways have a pavement condition rating of “Fair
to Poor”. e. Site Deterioration (163.340(8)(e), F.S.)
• Approximately 2/3 of the study area are without sidewalks. • Presence of deteriorating and boarded structures.
• Multiple trailer parks established during the 1950’s creating
b. Depreciating Assessed Property Values (163.340(8)(b), F.S.) concentrated pockets of blighted areas due to aging and
deteriorating structures.
• Over 4% net decrease in total assessed property values
between 2010 and 2014. • Code enforcement cases for inoperable vehicles, lot clearing,
minimum housing code, noise complaints, prohibited
c. Faulty Lot Layout (163.340(8)(c), F.S.) vehicles, trash and debris and zoning violations violation rates
• 130 properties within the study area have a zoning significantly exceeded the number of countywide cases.
classification that is not consistent with the Future Land Use
Map designation.
• Incidences of landlocked properties lacking meaningful
access.
• Existing code regulations could create development
challenges for some low-lying areas.
• Underutilized rear alleys.
• More recent infill development may be non-conforming to
the older, traditional development pattern due to existing Existing Area
Drainage
zoning regulations.
Infrastructure
9
Looking Forward: objectives and
strategies that form the guiding principles for
redevelopment in the Lealman Area. Included
are objectives to improve the area’s overall
economic vitality and health, existing and future
housing stock, commercial activity and livability.
7.0 Redevelopment Guiding Principles
Mesh Fabrications, 44th Ave N
The redevelopment program for the Lealman Community
Redevelopment Area Plan is committed to improving the quality of
life for all citizens; allowing for a dynamic and diverse community
where people of all ages, ethnicities, and incomes have
opportunities to find quality housing, jobs, goods, services, and
cultural amenities. Through creativity, innovation, and persistence,
the CRA will experience redevelopment and reinvestment through
socially, economically, and environmentally sustainable methods
to help create a district in which residents and business owners
are proud to invest. For this, a set of objectives and strategies will
drive the Plan to address the challenges and barriers to successful
redevelopment and viability.
12
7.1 Objectives and Strategies • Support public-public and public-private partnerships and
seek opportunities to coordinate with organizations such as the
Objective 1 – Economic Development and Innovation Chamber of Commerce, St. Petersburg College, the University
of South Florida, Pinellas County Schools, the private sector,
non-profit organizations, and others relevant entities.
The CRA will support economic development to increase
employment levels, raise the tax base, and improve the standard • Assess the County’s Comprehensive Plan, Land Development
of living in the Area. The CRA will also encourage investment in Code, and development review process to identify potential
human capital through workforce development and educational inconsistencies between these policies/procedures with the
programs. Ultimately, the goal of redevelopment is for the Area goal of stimulating new investment, redevelopment, workforce
to become economically and socially self-sustaining in the long development, and economic development within the Area.
term. By encouraging private investment in industry and real The CRA will coordinate with the County and other governing
estate while eliminating impediments to both public and private bodies as appropriate to identify and resolve impediments to
investment (particularly infrastructure needs and institutional redevelopment.
barriers), the potential of the Area can be fully realized. The CRA
will pursue a dynamic, active role in economic development • Support a variety of economic development and
entrepreneurship models and develop assistance techniques
and redevelopment activities that will include both traditional
including loans, grants, and other measures to support
economic development as well as opportunities to accommodate
“economic gardening” (an economic development model
a new knowledge economy based on the production of that supports existing small businesses) as driving forces in the
intellectual knowledge and the use of innovative technologies to local economy.
produce economic benefits.
• Advocate the development of a knowledge economy as a tool
Economic Development and Innovation Strategies to produce local and regional economic benefits. Work with
local industry leaders to encourage workforce development
• Formulate a redevelopment investment plan for targeted areas and the evolution of employment opportunities including
that may include (though not limited to) parcel acquisition (though not limited to) existing business expansions and spin-
and consolidation opportunities, particularly in targeted areas offs to other sites, new industry, trade and technical education
and along major corridors to foster desired redevelopment programs.
and innovative districts in an effort to attract cutting-edge
information technology and craft industries, incubator, desk • Support marketing across a variety of venues and media to
share work space, office users, conferencing, and transport attract talent and industry to the Area.
logistics-related businesses.
• Continue to develop, implement, monitor, and improve
• Maintain inventory and knowledge of vacant lands and development incentive programs for all types, scales, and
buildings to encourage new investment and accommodate intensities of redevelopment. Incentive programs can help
future development in the Area. defray the costs of development and encourage the kinds
of development that will transform the Area as envisioned in
this plan. Incentives may include (though not limited to) fixed
cost write-downs, Tax Increment Financing (TIF), assistance with
infrastructure costs, and density bonuses.
13
Objective 2 – Commercial • Encourage redevelopment of commercial parcel sites, and
examine opportunities to consolidate parcels for the use of
Residents are often forced to leave the Area in order to fulfill their larger-scale retail or commercial centers, to improve efficiency
demand for goods, services, and employment opportunities. and marketability of the Area.
However, the community has a strong desire to cultivate and • Assess land use and zoning along major corridors to determine
support commercial activity to support the residential base. To compatibility with redevelopment goals. Evaluate the County’s
that end, the CRA will work to identify opportunities and programs Land Development Code and other relevant regulations to
both public and private to improve the commercial building determine if regulatory changes would help facilitate infill
stock, to support existing businesses, and to bring a diverse commercial or mixed-use goals, and coordinate with the County
grouping of businesses such as retail, professional, service, and as needed to facilitate increased levels of commercial infill/
other commercial uses to the Area. redevelopment and proper development review regulations.
• Focus marketing efforts specifically to the business community to
Commercial Strategies retain existing businesses, attract new investment, and establish
a “hub” of commercial activity that will provide the opportunity
• Devote particular focus to major corridors, namely US-19, 54th for residents to work, shop, and be entertained in the Area.
Avenue, 28th Street, 49th Street, Haines Road and the Joe’s
Creek Industrial area, which offer the most obvious opportunities • Assist with establishing a local business association to better
for commercial and mixed-use development manage the business inventory and distribute relevant
information in the Area.
• Identify incentives to retain, improve, and expand existing
businesses and attract new business types to encourage the
The Source Market, Denver, CO
desired office, commercial, retail, and professional uses.
• Support neighborhood-serving commercial and small-scale
centers that residents can patronize.
• Identify and support in matching resources with businesses
to provide financing mechanisms that offer access to credit
and other capital. Assist with incentives, expedited permitting,
infrastructure costs, land assembly, disposition or land cost
write-down, stormwater assistance, density and intensity
bonuses, and other means to encourage quality commercial
development. Incentives should encourage high-quality design
and construction practices including utilizing green building
techniques.
• Work with both the public and private sectors to address known
deficiencies and to solve existing flooding and inadequate utility
service issues that may contribute to the lack of commercial
investment in the Area.
14
Objective 3 – Housing • Develop supplemental regulatory tools to address existing
zoning enforcement issues to deal with reoccurring instances
The community has a strong desire to increase residential options of slum, blight and nuisance properties and occupancy issues.
and see a change in housing stock in the Area. The CRA will Work with County Code Enforcement officials to enforce
explore both public and private options to improve the residential occupancy regulations to deter owner neglect of maintenance
building stock and to provide safe, well-designed, high-quality responsibilities for rental housing units.
housing (at both market-rate and workforce price points)
throughout the Area. The CRA will also work to support a diverse • Assess the County’s Land Development Code and development
housing stock that provides livable, quality options for renters and review process to determine if regulatory or procedural changes
homeowners at all price points. The CRA will support infill housing would help facilitate infill and affordable housing goals, and
to encourage reinvestment in existing neighborhoods and to coordinate with the County as needed to facilitate both
promote homeownership. redevelopment and proper growth management regulations.
• Strengthen existing single family neighborhoods within the
Housing Strategies community.
• Provide housing opportunities for diverse demographic groups.
Cottage Square, Ocean Springs, MS
• Increase the stock of quality housing by offering possible builder
incentives such as expedited permitting, reduced infrastructure
costs, land assembly, disposition, land cost write-down,
stormwater assistance, density bonuses, design assistance, and
other similar means. Incentives should encourage high-quality
design and construction practices including utilizing green
building techniques.
• Utilize a variety of tools and mechanisms such as (though not
limited to) Housing and Urban Development (HUD), Habitat for
Humanity, loans, and down payment assistance to assist with
homeownership.
• Incorporate tools such as (though not limited to) preservation
and façade grants, or low- interest loans for live-work units that
provide achievable housing for the Area’s workforce.
• CRA may pursue both large and small scale housing projects
and will support infill housing opportunities, including “model
block” initiatives.
• Promote opportunities for vacant, run-down, or non-conforming
lots in residential areas to transition into infill housing through lot
consolidation or other means.
15
Objective 4 – Infrastructure and Transportation • Identify, document, and analyze overall parking demands and
infrastructure constraints throughout the Area, particularly in
Current infrastructure and transportation systems identified as existing or potential commercial corridors.
either deficient or non-existent in portions of the Area, which • Develop incentives for site and structure improvements. The
creates significant obstacles in attracting or accommodating CRA can provide assistance in identifying and pursuing funding
infill and redevelopment. Improvements are required to meet sources such as Community Development Block Grants (CDBG)
adequate utility and infrastructure demands across the Area, and other sources to assist private property owners.
achieve equity of services with the County, mitigate blighted
• Support initial clean-up and ongoing maintenance of alleyways
conditions, accommodate economic development, and to improve functionality, support future redevelopment and infill
make the Area more attractive for reinvestment. Infrastructure designs that incorporate rear alleyway access, alleyway trash
improvements can be facilitated through increased coordination pick-up, and promote general connectivity. The reopening of
or participation in partnership with the other County departments, previously vacated alleyways, streets, or Rights-of-way will also
local service providers, and other relevant organizations. Utilization support and increase the desired accessibility and connectivity.
of technologies such as Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and
• Support paving, resurfacing, and reconstruction of roadways
coordination of strategic planning across multiple departments
and coordinate with Public Works to facilitate such projects
and agencies will assist in achieving and optimizing infrastructure within the Area, in conjunction with the concepts and guidelines
improvements.
of proper urban form.
Infrastructure and Transportation Strategies • Improve multi-modal mobility, accessibility and safety by
developing a holistic traffic calming plan, a continuous network
• Collaborate with both the public and private sectors of streets, sidewalks, bike lanes and trails, and upgraded
on infrastructure improvements to address known utility/ pedestrian and transit amenities. The CRA will consider funding
infrastructure deficiencies in order to provide equity of services the incremental cost associated with implementing functional
across the County and facilitate new development in the and decorative streetscapes, upgraded transit shelters and
Area. Coordinate to link strategic planning efforts for capital street furniture in coordination with planned public or private
improvements/upgrades between multiple departments or roadway improvements.
agencies to share costs and provide maximum benefit to the
Area, particularly those with the greatest capacity to attract Street Cross-Section by N. Garrick
reinvestment.
• Monitor and address unsafe conditions created by inadequate
fire hydrant availability or water flow protection to properties in
the Area. This effort should be coordinated with street upgrades
and other Right-of-way improvements, whenever possible.
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Objective 5 – Urban Form “super blocks”, dead ends, cul-de-sacs, vacated streets or
alleys, or other disruptions of the grid system.
Visual characteristics of the built environment offer the first • Support modifications to the development scale of major
impression of the overall quality of life in the Area. In this manner, arterial corridors to transition from a highway character to a
both the public realm and private properties contribute to the more ‘Complete Street’ which entails a more human-oriented
viability of the Area and its ability to attract new investment. The scale with a mix of uses achieved through the installation of
CRA will encourage the thoughtful definition of public spaces medians, hardscaping, sidewalks, crosswalks, traffic calming,
including incorporating a Complete Streets methodology with street trees, landscaping or other measures.
the appropriate scale of the street grid and the pattern of • Promote the use of “innovative” building designs and
interconnected, walkable streets and blocks. Along public Rights- architectural methods in targeted areas. Incorporating such
of- way, the CRA will support improvements such as (though features can assist in the intentional creation of mini-districts or
not limited to) undergrounding utilities, street trees, sidewalks, villages, or encourage a holistic transformation of an Area.
decorative lighting fixtures, and other elements that improve both
• Prioritize functional and aesthetic improvements along major
the functionality and aesthetics/character of corridors. The CRA
corridors running through the Area. Amenities and improvements
will also support property acquisition, public spaces, and cultural
to highly visible locations will achieve a greater impact and
amenities. For private development, the CRA will support human- have increased ability to change perceptions about the Area,
scaled development, creativity, innovation, and high-quality instill a better sense of place and reinforce edges of the Area
design for both large and small scale projects. The CRA should also as well as distinct neighborhoods, mini-districts, and prominent
seek a better understanding of local regulations and procedures projects.
for altering the built environment. The CRA will coordinate with the
• Support the public realm. Investment in the public realm will
appropriate departments and agencies to resolve barriers that
encourage a sense of place and increase community pride,
can contribute to an undesirable built environment.
combat negative perceptions, and stimulate private investment
Urban Form Strategies in residential and commercial properties.
• Provide improvements to the existing parks and recreational
• Undertake an urban design analysis based upon the principles facilities, including lighting, parking, landscaping, art installations,
of new urbanism to evaluate opportunities to identify potential and new recreational equipment.
distinct districts or character areas, thought to be generally
anchored by a dominant use that supports secondary or • Support aesthetic improvements to unsightly retention systems
adjacent uses. by providing wetland vegetation or buffering without the use of
fencing as permitted by the Plan or design guidelines.
• Create an urban design mechanism (e.g., overlay district, form
based code, Complete Streets, etc.) to define the building • Analyze the development review processes to identify potential
development envelope, and to allow for predictable form and inconsistencies with the intent of the Plan and its objectives.
function and foster a more cohesive, pedestrian scale and The CRA will coordinate with the County and other regulatory
distinctive identity. bodies as appropriate to ensure that the vision of the Plan is
attainable through the regulatory process.
• Support and encourage redevelopment that reaffirms an
interconnected street grid. Encourage a walkable, human-
Objective 6 – Healthy Community
scale pattern of blocks and streets and discourage overly large
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(Reduction in Crime, Medical and Fire Incidents) to) pop-up and mobile clinics, the Community Paramedic
Program, and relationships with local (Medical, Dental, Vision)
Improvements to the overall built environment can provide an institutions to provide basic health services.
opportunity to engage citizens and renew a sense of community • Encourage access to community programs by supporting
pride. In a healthy community implementation of self-policing neighborhood centers for social, recreational, and educational
techniques such as “eyes on the street” and “Crime Prevention opportunities.
Through Environmental Design” (CPTED) can in some instances
• Promote opportunities that improve access to wholesome
reduce the response times, to police, fire, and medical assistance
and fair market price foods in the Area. The CRA may support
calls. Healthy communities also promote and address basic increasing healthy eating options by encouraging food
healthcare needs in the Area. program partnerships, new grocery stores, sit-down restaurants,
farmer’s markets, urban agriculture, etc.
Healthy Community Strategies
• Promote partnerships and programs that support youth
• Improve neighborhood safety by developing a street lighting character building, professional training, and mentoring
program, incorporating (CPTED) strategies, and increasing opportunities (e.g., Fire and Policing Explorer program, Prodigy
participation in a Neighborhood Crime Watch or Window Program for Arts, Music, and Dance, etc.).
Watcher program. Redevelopment activities may also provide
an opportunity to positively impact instances of crime and the • Pursue maintenance and upkeep activities including (though
perception of crime within the Area. not limited to) establishing a board to address nuisance
properties and eliminate an environment that cultivates
• Support County efforts to implement a periodic schedule economic-based crimes (crimes of opportunity).
to conduct Safety With Education and Enforcement of
Property Standards (SWEEPS) in which neighborhood tours are • Promote and support programs that hold absentee property
periodically performed to systematically address, the most owners accountable to remove tenants participating in criminal
common or problematic issues and areas in the community. activities on or from the owner’s properties.
• Encourage pooling resources and investigate the feasibility of • Support the development of a ‘Citizen’s Guide’ or ‘Good
locating one or more law enforcement sub-stations in the Area. Neighbor Handbook’ to properly educate residents and
property owners on how a ‘good neighbor’ in Pinellas County is
• Work with law enforcement, institutions, neighborhoods, and expected to care for and maintain their property.
local governments to develop a strategy to reduce crime,
prostitution, drug sales, and other illegal activity in the Area.
Examine existing policies that may prevent proper response by
police, fire, ambulance services.
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Objective 8 – Branding, Marketing and Promotion Area to strengthen the local economy by creating a stronger
(Sense of Place) presence for individual businesses as well as the entire business
community.
The CRA will develop or assist in developing initiatives and projects • Support the preservation of significant or historic cultural
that have the potential to bring about the greatest impact in amenities in the Area.
transforming the area and catalyzing additional investment
• Encourage community identity through artwork in parks and
through branding and promotion. Community pride and identity other public spaces that promotes local artists and students.
are essential to the vitality of the Area. Improvements to the
built environment provide an opportunity to engage citizens, • Enhance lines of communication among residents, businesses,
and renew and promote a sense of pride in the community. The and the County by sponsoring community events (e.g., block
Area should redevelop as a modern, inclusive community that parties, help your neighbor day, holiday festivities, etc.) to
foster more interaction among residents and improve access to
welcomes diversity and innovation while being respectful of the
information, resources and services in the Area.
past.
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Objective 9 – Funding, Financing, and Management • Identify and secure funding to support the Plan’s initiatives
(e.g., tax increment revenues, Penny for Pinellas, other public
The funding and financing portion of this plan call for creative, instruments, loans, credits, gap financing, grants, and public-
efficient, practical and equitable funding and financing public or public-private partnerships). Public money allocated
mechanisms to accurately implement this Plan. It is perceived for incentives should be returned to funding source at resale
when feasible.
that these initiatives will be tied to the tax increment dollars;
additionally, the CRA may also explore outside funding • Utilize a multi-faceted approach in acquiring properties for
opportunities such as tax credits, loans, grants, bonds, etc. The redevelopment due to the high cost of land acquisitions and
CRA will implement programs that cover both the full physical limited tax increment financing capabilities. The CRA should
extent of the Redevelopment Area as well as the breadth of encourage the acquisition and subsequent redevelopment by
objectives outlined in this Plan. The CRA will coordinate proper the private market and by the CRA.
management of the redevelopment initiatives and promotion of • Support funding to finance land acquisitions by the CRA (some
the Area. The CRA will identify and pursue initiatives that have the of which will be recovered or rolled over as properties are
potential to bring about the greatest impact in transforming the resold).
Area and stimulate additional private investment.
• Encourage and participate in the dedicated maintenance of
redevelopment projects to preserve the investments laid forth
Funding, Financing, Management Strategies in project implementation.
• Secure all viable sources of funding and financing to support • Conduct periodic strategic planning sessions to evaluate
the redevelopment initiatives described in this Plan. Such current project status and identify upcoming priority initiatives.
mechanisms can include (but are not limited to) tax increment
revenues, ad valorem revenue, Non-Ad Valorem assessment • Create work plans for funding and implementing budgets that
revenue, taxable or non-taxable bonds, Penny for Pinellas can be reviewed and adjusted as needed based on initiatives’
dollars, other public instruments, grants and public-private commencement and progress.
partnerships. • Encourage the business community and other local stakeholders
• Develop programs and identify opportunities for public-private to participate in sponsorship programs (e.g., adopt a road) that
partnerships in the redevelopment of the CRA. The establishment generate additional funding for local projects, programs and
and maintenance of partnerships will serve not only to leverage initiatives in the Area.
the tax increment and other revenue sources but also stimulate • Encourage reinvestment in the Area by maintaining a thorough,
community interest and support. Partnerships may take several up-to-date understanding of the Area. Activities that may
forms from financial partnering to technical support to the facilitate this goal include, but are not limited to, the following:
promotion of the area. Each partnership opportunity shall be
evaluated on a case-by-case basis for its overall value and • Map and index all commercial properties and inventory
beneficial impacts. substandard properties.
• Document site criteria for developments by business type for
• Support the provision of County resources and staff time to
developer site and parking requirements.
negotiate acquisitions; assist in the purchase, sale, negotiation
and coordination of land assembly; and facilitate public-private • Facilitate redevelopment of constrained parcels or groups
partnerships with potential developers. of parcels.
• Identify resources (e.g., staffing, in-kind goods or services, or
21
funding, etc.) to accomplish projects.
ProjectsForPublicSpaces, www.pps.org
• Conduct periodic strategic planning to identify priority
initiatives and create work plans from which the CRA can
implement budgets and appropriate funding.
Lealman Community Park, 54th Ave
22
Getting There: a summary of tools that
can be utilized to implement future reinvestment,
and a overview of previous studies that have
assisted in shaping the framework for which future
programs and projects will be realized.
8.0 Redevelopment Tools
i. Real Property Disposition and Development: the Agency
The Agency reserves the right to provide any and all incentives, may sell, or otherwise dispose of, real property within the Area, in
including the use of TIF redevelopment trust fund revenue, accordance with the Community Redevelopment Area Plan. The
allowable by Florida Statutes Chapter 163, Part III, utilizing the tools property may be disposed of at Fair Market Value, rather than at
described below (though not limited to): the Appraised Value. The documents of conveyance will contain
any conditions necessary to safeguard the goals of the CRA Plan.
a. Property Acquisition: the current law authorizes the Agency to
acquire real property through purchase, condemnation, or other The Agency reserves the right to provide any and all incentives,
lawful means, to assist or facilitate the redevelopment process. including the use of TIF redevelopment trust fund revenue,
b. Property Rehabilitation: the Agency may rehabilitate, or allowable by Florida Statutes Chapter 163, Part III, to support the
require to be rehabilitated as part of a lease or sale, any property redevelopment of the CRA. It is the intent of this plan to empower
within the Area. the CRA to utilize any legal development and/or redevelopment
tool available to facilitate the redevelopment of the CRA in
c. Structure Relocation: if a property is deemed to be worthy of accordance with this plan.
rehabilitation and is in the path of a redevelopment project, the
Agency may authorize the funds necessary to move it to a new
location. 9.0 Redevelopment Activities
d. Cooperation with other Public Agencies: the Agency may According to Florida Statutes any redevelopment activity that is
cooperate and coordinate with other public entities in the authorized by Chapter 163, Part III can be utilized by a Community
implementation of this Plan, in order to optimize the value of the Redevelopment Agency if that redevelopment activity is included
community’s investment in the Area. within a Community Redevelopment Plan. Generally speaking
redevelopment activities can take the form of broad programs or
e. Property Management: the Agency may, at its discretion,
enter into agreements to ensure the preservation, maintenance more specific projects.
and/or operation of real property within the Area.
The programs and projects identified in this section of the Plan are
f. Demolition and Clearance: the Agency may authorize the tools that may be used by the CRA Agency throughout the life of
demolition, removal or clearance of buildings, structures and other the CRA. Prior to the implementation of any program or project
improvements on real property it has purchased within the Area, identified within the Plan, the Agency shall establish and/or adopt
to aid in the Area’s redevelopment.
specific details, rules, criteria or policy as is necessary to properly
g. Preparation of Building and Development Sites: the Agency and successfully implement the program or project. The Agency
may undertake building and/or site preparation on any real shall have the authority to adopt, prioritize, modify, update,
property within the Area, to assist in the redevelopment process. change or abolish any program or project at any duly noticed
public meeting, whether or not the action was on the agenda.
h. Public Improvements and Infrastructure: the Agency shall Property owners and business operators may apply to participate
advise the County on the timing and location of public improvements, in any number of CRA programs or projects as determined by
including surface improvements and subsurface infrastructure, to program or project rules, criteria, or policy.
be accomplished within the Area. The recommendations shall be
consistent with the adopted Comprehensive Plan.
25
The Agency has the authority to decide when and if any programs to carry out such research. Produced by HCP Associates on
or projects identified within the Plan will be implemented. Simply behalf of the Department of Health & Community Services (HCS)
because a program or project is identified, does not mean that of Pinellas County, 2014.
the Agency is bound to implement or provide funds for that
particular redevelopment activity. The Agency also reserves the 3. Lealman Central Area Engineering Study: This study was part
right to establish rules, guidelines, and/or policies with respect to of an ongoing collaborative effort between Pinellas County and
the community to identify ways to improve flooding and drainage
the administration of any of the before mentioned programs.
concerns, as well as the overall quality of water flowing to Joe's
Creek. As part of this study and subsequent efforts, improvements
Programs and projects identified within the Plan are eligible for in the appearance and environmental character of the Lealman
TIF funds, subject to the requirements of Chapter 163, Part III, and Community will be achieved. Produced by Pinellas County, July
the Agency may use any number of the projects or programs in a 2012.
manner that furthers the redevelopment of the community.
4. The Economic Impact of Poverty: This report provided an
9.1 Program / Project Identification Process analysis of the county at large, and evaluated it for various
contributing factors to poverty: access to transportation, food and
Since 2001, portions of the Lealman CRA have been the subject of health care; quality of resident health; education level; presence
several studies to improve the economic base or quality of life in of crime; unemployment rates; and availability of affordable
the Lealman community. These studies, listed below, (which also housing. This analysis aided in identifying five regions throughout
included their own public outreach program) generated many the county that were labeled “At-Risk Zones” that had higher
recommendations to improve the Area. These recommendations concentrations of poverty than the county as a whole, one of
form the basis of the redevelopment programs and projects which was the Lealman area. Produced by Department of Health
contained in this plan. & Community Services (HCS) of Pinellas County, May 2012.
1. Lealman Findings of Necessity Report: This plan was produced 5. Pinellas by Design Plan: An Economic Development and
to document the conditions of blight in the Lealman in preparation Redevelopment Plan for the Pinellas Community: The Pinellas by
of creating a Community Redevelopment Area. The general Design Plan was completed to identify actions necessary to assure
boundaries of the plan are the City of Pinellas Park to the north, future economic prosperity and a corresponding high quality of
Kenneth City to the west, and the City of St. Petersburg to the life for all of Pinellas County’s citizens. It establishes economic, real
south and east. Produced by Pinellas County, May 2015. estate, and urban design strategies to serve as a foundation for
future countywide economic development and redevelopment
2. Lealman Citizen & Stakeholder Research Report: This report efforts.
demonstrated the findings of collected baseline Lealman
resident data and insights obtained during various “stakeholder” 6. Lealman Incorporation Feasibility Study: The Feasibility Study
group engagement activities. Following the 2012 Economic was completed at the urging of the residents of Greater Lealman
Impact of Poverty Report, HCS decided to focus primary efforts who were concerned with preserving the economic integrity of
and resources on the identified Lealman zone. Prior to launching their community. The study was designed to provide an estimate,
such initiatives, the HCS requested a snapshot of current baseline or idea, of the range of costs for providing essential government
data to assist them in monitoring outcomes of its future initiatives services and programs if greater Lealman were to incorporate as
and capture insight into the involvement of Pinellas County in a new municipal government. The estimates of costs are based
producing such outcomes. For this HCP Associates were retained on a comparison of the operating and recurring capital costs
26
for four municipalities in Pinellas County. Produced by Pinellas Chapter 163, Part III, and the Pinellas County Comprehensive Plan
County, July 2002. at any duly noticed public hearing.
7. A VISION for the Future of Central Lealman: Extracted from a. Infill Development Incentives: Infill is a redevelopment strategy
the Revitalization Plan for the Lealman Community: This plan that is used to repurpose real estate within a county or city that is
provided a “Vision” for the future of the Central Lealman area. no longer serving any real purpose or considered underutilized.
The plan outlined specific objective topics and actions to achieve The process of this type of development effort may include new
the Vision over the next several years. Produced by the Members construction on vacant lots, changing uses in declining areas for
of the Community, July 2001. new purposes, or even modifying existing structures so they can
serve a new purpose. Infill development is often part of an overall
8. A Revitalization Plan for the Lealman Community: The Revi- urban renewal strategy, designed to revitalize areas of the county
talization Plan identified three distinct planning areas but target- that have declined and are no longer considered desirable for
ed Central Lealman what was recognized to be the ‘hub’ within any particular purpose.
Lealman. This plan established a vision for the future of Central
Lealman and provided a phased revitalization strategy frame- The most common example of infill development usually involves
work to include East and West Lealman over time. Produced by vacant lots or parcels of land. While these lots may have once
Pinellas County, July 2001. held some type of structure, those buildings are no longer present.
In order to make the area useful again, the Agency may identify
9.2 Redevelopment Programs a use for the vacant lot and proceed to implement that purpose.
For example, a vacant lot may become home to a new structure,
Facilitating redevelopment in the Lealman CRA will require
a park, residential units, or even be turned into a parking lot that
additional public investment to stimulate private investment and
helps to alleviate a parking problem that prevents consumers
remedy the impediments identified in the County's 2015 Finding
from shopping in nearby retail establishments.
of Necessity Report. A list of programs (below) has been created
in order to provide a general outline of redevelopment activities
Activities that will prepare sites for redevelopment, thus making
permissible by this plan and by Florida Statutes Chapter 163,
them more attractive for new investment, would include relocating
Part III. The programs provide a general overview of potential
an existing business to a more suitable location in order to better
implementation measures identified in prior studies and through
utilize the parcel, demolishing outdated or unsafe structures,
public meetings conducted within the Area that could support
site clearing, providing infrastructure support, and identifying
redevelopment.
Brownfields and completing environmental cleanup.
Listing of a program within this report does not ensure that the
Other activities could include promoting new development
program will be developed or considered for development, or
as catalyst to support other business development, providing
funded by the Agency. The Agency reserves the right to fund,
technical and financial assistance for small business start-ups and
develop, study, plan, or pursue any program, listed within this
expansions, providing parking, promoting the industrial district
section that is allowable by this plan, Florida Statutes Chapter 163,
for niche industries (like public market concepts or artisanal
Part III, and Pinellas County Comprehensive Plan. The Agency
businesses), opening prime real estate for redevelopment, using
also reserves the right to amend this plan, add new programs, or
government owned land to encourage more private investment,
edit existing programs that are allowable under Florida Statutes
27
promoting large site, mixed-use development and housing driveway and parking improvements, water and wastewater
(including affordable housing). connections, plumbing, electrical upgrades, interior build- out,
landscaping, and anything associated with bringing a structure
The Agency may also consider assistance to private property and property into compliance with local or state building codes.
owners in facilitating property assemblage for redevelopment.
Such assistance may include providing marketing assistance, Similarly, the improvement and rehabilitation of blighted residential
assisting in the acquisition of unused easements, "left-over" and buildings and properties within the Area plays an important role in
unusable parcels and other land acquisition activities, parking maintaining the appearance and integrity of the neighborhoods.
agreements, provision of public parking facilities, business Accordingly, the CRA Agency may provide assistance to
recruitment, and provision of public amenities attractive to larger residential property owners and associations for the rehabilitation
scale developers. The CRA designation will greatly enhance the of their properties. Again, building or site improvements must be
County's ability to provide technical and financial assistance. permanent or “fixed”, per Florida Statutes Chapter 163, Part III.
The types of improvements allowed are similar those listed above
b. Regulatory Incentives: Review of current zoning and land use for incentives for underutilized non-residential properties.
regulations has shown that many code provisions are inadequate
to encourage and support redevelopment and infill development, d. Public Infrastructure Development/Redevelopment:
particularly in and along some of the commercial corridors, which Adequate public infrastructure is essential to the health and
may have a different market attraction today than in the past. The vitality of an urban community and its residents. The lack of
Agency may consider revisions to the land development code adequate public infrastructure is a major cause of disinvestment
that streamline the development process, increase densities or and the establishment of blighted conditions within communities.
encourage development consistent with the long term vision for The development and/or improvement of public infrastructure
the area. Areas in the CRA could benefit from updating the code is a redevelopment strategy designed to address current and
and incorporating design overlay districts in strategic target areas. future needs by increasing capacity, functionality, efficiency,
Such overlay districts, exacted by a form-based code establish and/or marketability. Public infrastructure may include but is
guidance for residential and commercial redevelopment for not limited to stormwater and flood control systems, water and
building and parking placement; parking, landscaping, fencing wastewater utilities, Complete Street design for roadways or street
and sign requirements, window transparencies and transit and segments, traffic calming, parking, electric utilities, signalization,
pedestrian design parameters. street lighting, broadband and other innovative technologies,
recreational facilities and equipment, open space, bicycle lanes,
c. Building and Site Improvement and Rehabilitation Incentives: and pedestrian facilities including sidewalks, walking/biking trails,
The improvement and rehabilitation of key blighted and/or and trails.
underutilized non-residential properties within the Area is a
redevelopment strategy that is used to repurpose buildings, e. Transit & Mobility: The Lealman CRA is conveniently situated
making them more marketable for private enterprise. Building adjacent to I-275 with direct access throughout Pinellas County
and site improvements must be permanent or “fixed”, per as well as routes north and south to the adjacent neighboring
Florida Statutes Chapter 163, Part III. Permanent improvements counties. The need for additional transit choices and frequency
include, but are not limited to, façade improvements, structural of service has been raised by residents and business owners
improvements, roof repair, window repair/replacement, painting, alike. As an incentive to local businesses and a convenience to
28
the residents, the CRA Agency may wish to implement projects strategy that boosts the local economy and encourages more
and programs that extends the range of transit partners to activity within the Area, especially along existing and target
generally improve public transit throughout the area (including commercial corridors. Similarly, many non-profit organizations assist
but not limited to) Financial, Service Delivery and Infrastructure in any number of various activities that support redevelopment
Public Private Partnerships (P3), contracting with public agencies goals within the Area. The CRA may partner with various non-profit
or private providers, leasing or purchasing vehicles, promoting organizations of this type that seek to improve the economic,
public transit and subsidizing programs or services that reduce social, and physical character.
car-reliance and complement existing transit service.
h. Placemaking: The appearance and aesthetics of the Area
The Agency may also consider increasing mobility choices and is critical for attracting residents visitors and private investment,
customer-based accessibility services (subject to requirements especially to the target areas as described in Section 10 of the
of Chapter 163, Part III) that would enhance the redevelopment Plan. Placemaking can be achieved through various means,
potential of the area and improve the quality of life of area such as beautification programs, parks & recreation facilities and
residents. A variety of internal and regional connector transit connectivity.
systems could be explored, such as Circulators between high
demand destinations, Improved bus service, Enhanced multi- Beautification programs help to create a visually and inviting
modal stops and facilities, Implementing one stop shopping and environment. Users will find themselves staying longer and
centralized fare payment technology and Building a network of enjoying themselves more, when the area is as attractive as it can
micro-transit providers (including but not limited to) Uber, Lyft, be. A beautification program may include (though not limited to)
United Taxi and Direct Connect that enhances access to existing signage, entry features, period lighting, plazas, sidewalk cafes,
public transit with ‘first mile, last mile’ or similar feeder options. streetscape, functional public art, murals, plantings, landscaping,
trails, building designs, removing chain link fences and improving
f. Community Facilities: Somewhat related to Public Infrastructure the appearance of properties. A beautification program may
are Community Facilities, which can enhance the physical also include the updating or establishment of design standards
and social atmosphere of the CRA and provide a stable and for any given neighborhood or district within the Community
positive environment to attract new investment. Such facilities Redevelopment Area, including the Innovation District and even
include community centers, health clinics, pharmacy, workforce for strategic street segments where the Complete Streets model
development centers, parks and recreation facilities, wellness can be implemented.
center, healthy local food choices and grocery stores. The Agency
may consider using its powers to leverage the construction of Parks and Recreation Facilities support placemaking initiatives by
these facilities or enter into partnerships with providers of such creating amenities to serve Area residents and visitors and provide
services to the community. additional safe locations for children to play in the community.
The Agency may consider developing public park space and
g. Community Events, Cultural Awareness and Non-Profits: recreational amenities in the interior of the CRA, as well as
Community events and activities that occur, serve to promote providing convenient and usable public access to the Pinellas
the community and attract residents and visitors to the Area to Trail. Adding new smaller parks and recreational facilities within
shop with local merchants and dine in local eateries. The creation, the reemerging residential areas can also enhance livability.
support, and/or facilitation of such events is a redevelopment
29
i. Marketing, Promotions, Business Recruitment and Development: l. Neighborhood Reinvestment Program: The funding of certain
The Agency may provide funding and guidance necessary to capital improvements, increased pride of home ownership, and
create a personalized marketing plan to promote the Area to elimination of certain blighted conditions facilitates the stabilization
residents or potential visitors. The Agency may provide funds for and revitalization of stressed residential neighborhoods. The
technical business support, low-interest business loan programs, establishment and implementation of neighborhood reinvestment
business expansions, start-ups, incubators, co-work or artisanal programs within the Area could improve the appearance,
facilities or assistance creating new venture business plans or desirability and marketability of core, target areas. It is critical
business improvement plans for existing small business operators. to ensure that an adequate supply of quality workforce housing
Programs to recruit private investment, development, and remains or is redeveloped during the revitalization of the area.
businesses to locate or relocate to the Area may be established. Programs that safeguard the long-term diversity of the housing
stock to include a range of income housing and ownership
j. Code Enforcement: Use of adequate and proactive code choices may be considered.
enforcement is a redevelopment strategy that is necessary to
protect property values, commercial activity, and the general m. Community Services: The Agency may participate in programs
quality of life for residents and visitors within the Area. Proper code designed to serve the community. Such services may include
enforcement can also help to attract new business development employment services, workforce training, continuing education,
and investment by increasing the marketability, aesthetics and family support services, health and wellness and other services
structural integrity of blighted properties. Implementation of that would benefit the community.
complementary programs such as the ‘SWEEPS’ and ‘Good
Neighbor’ programs could be used to augment code enforcement Employment services might take the form of, though not limited
activities in key areas of the CRA. to, assisting individuals in gaining employment experience and
jobs, internships and apprenticeships and job training. Education
k. Crime Prevention: Adequate law enforcement is a necessary support could involve improving school curricula, mentoring,
redevelopment strategy to help protect property values, trade schools, lifelong/continuing education, adopt-a-school,
promote activity, ensure safety, and enhance the quality of entrepreneurial support, business services, co-work and incubator
life of the residents and visitors within the Area. When an area facilities and other educational programs. Family support services
is perceived to be or feels safe, the level of activity increases, could include childcare, self-sufficiency programs, financial
helping to stimulate new investment, new businesses, and more assistance for housing needs, family development, elderly care,
residents. According to Florida Statutes, the CRA may participate volunteer programs and counseling. Health and wellness could
in community policing activities including, though not limited to, include health literacy programs, wellness services, access to
Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED), citizen healthy food, medical and dental services and other similar
patrol, neighborhood block watch & business watch, traffic services.
calming, community outreach & meetings, crime prevention
education, public safety council, bike patrols, gang suppression/ n. Relocation Assistance: In some instances, residential and non-
prevention, neighborhood storefront police stations and the residential redevelopment activities may require the relocation
installation of security and monitoring systems. of a business or household. The CRA may utilize TIF revenue to
provide relocation assistance. Assistance may include, but is not
30
limited to, rent/lease assistance, advertisements, distribution of
pertinent information, and the cost of moving.
31
Creating Places: recognizing the
potential for emerging districts offers opportunities
to guide future investment. Through specific
policy direction, the Area will derive the ability
to shape the mix of uses, built form, function and
mobility options that are most appropriate for
each district and the long-term stability of the
adjacent neighborhoods.
10.0 Target Redevelopment Districts
• Infrastructure including (though not limited to) regional
In addition to the area-wide programs identified in the preceding retention, street repaving and repair
section, the Lealman CRA offers opportunities to target
• Enhanced streetscape, landscaping and pedestrian lighting
redevelopment efforts to achieve specific objectives and physical
(Complete Streets)
form.
• Parking in support of new development
As part of this initiative, any target area recognized by the Agency • Private sector infill and mixed-use housing redevelopment
may choose to implement additional design and redevelopment
• Public, private and partnership (P3) reinvestment
standards as an alternative to existing zoning districts. This can
be accomplished one of two ways. First, by adopting a new, • Focused neighborhood preservation, code enforcement and
performance-based zoning, overlay district that addresses the built citizen watch programs
environment and public realm and can be ‘floated’ or applied • Developer incentives (e.g., streamlined regulations, expedited
to multiple sub-areas, corridors or targeted redevelopment areas permitting, etc.)
in the CRA or other areas of unincorporated Pinellas County,
at the direction of the Board of County Commission. A second • Placement of public art, plazas and parks
mechanism for achieving a more predictable urban form is by • Residential emergency repairs and façade improvements
subsequently designating an Agency-recognized targeted area
• Site development and preparation for redevelopment
as a ‘Form Based Code (FBC) District’, per the Pinellas County
proposals (Model Block)
Land Development Code Chapter 138, Division 13. Designated
FBC Districts are required to include a district-specific regulating • Commercial / Industrial building and property improvement
plan that through the use of urban design standards and practices • New or expanded community facilities and family support
expresses the district’s distinct purpose, function, and character. services
And by which, all new redevelopment within that particular district
• Provision of workforce housing
will be required to meet such standards.
• Marketing and promotion
All recommendations within this section are eligible for TIF funds (as • Industry recruitment and Business development, support and
allowed by Florida Statutes Chapter 163, Part III) and the Agency outreach
may use any number of the projects or programs, identified within
• Increased and enhanced transit service and transit oriented
other sections in a manner that furthers the redevelopment of the
development
Lealman CRA.
34
10.1 Innovation District entrepreneurial opportunities and living environments to attract
and retain a stable and diversified population. An industrial/
Approximately 51 acres delineated as the Lealman Innovation warehouse district in this area is intended to accommodate
District is situated in north-central part of the Lealman CRA. The the development and redevelopment of industrial, industrial/
district is primarily residential with the 54th Avenue commercial commercial mixed-use and live/work projects with required public
corridor on its north end. Also included within the district is Lealman benefits and design criteria. This will ensure the area will continue
Heights, a 7.2 acre site owned by Pinellas County. Lealman Heights to evolve in a manner consistent with the vision of the community.
was acquired with the vision for its future to be a catalyst project for
the area to include a mix of uses that may include housing, retail 10.4 The Neighborhoods
and commercial with a particular focus on entrepreneurial, small
There are not any distinct, identifiable neighborhoods in the
business opportunities. The right combination of improvements
Lealman CRA, but there is a significant residential component.
that focus on residential and neighborhood reinvestment, meeting
Residents have expressed a desire to improve and diversify
community needs and opportunities to amplify the 54th Avenue
the housing stock but have raised concerns that increased
corridor with public realm improvements such as lane realignments,
redevelopment could have negative impacts on the stable,
on-street parking, streetscapes, lighting and marketing for existing
existing residential areas (e.g., lack of or too much affordable
business and new commercial investment, the Innovation District
housing, too much change, etc.). The redevelopment objective in
can become an active, vibrant community.
the primarily residential areas is to strengthen the identity, stability,
10.2 Lealman Heights character and quality of life. Investments should be made in
the residential areas to support creating self-sustaining, thriving
Located within the delineated Innovation District, Lealman Heights neighborhoods. Such improvements would include infrastructure
is a 7.2 acre site that currently consist of 53 single and multi-family improvements, streetscape, sidewalks, street resurfacing, bike and
residential units and 3 non-residential buildings. Over the next 3-5 pedestrian access, parks and improved access to schools and
years, it is intended that the site will continue to offer affordable, other community facilities.
workforce rental units as well as offering local community and
10.5 Commercial Corridors
human service providers the opportunity to have a local presence
in the communities they serve by providing affordable commercial Represented Area corridors include four north-south and two
space. The long-term vision for Lealman Heights is to become east-west roadways. The north-south corridors include 49th
a vibrant mixed-income, mixed-use community with a range Street, 34th Street, 28th Street and Haines Road. The east-west
of housing options, commercial/retail mix, public space and corridors are 54th Avenue and 58th Avenue but to a lesser extent.
potentially community event, studio space, innovative business Implementing a holistic approach to improving the corridors is vital
development space or a combination thereof. in efficiently moving traffic through the Area while also reducing
10.3 Industrial/Warehouse District private automobile dependency, providing the framework for
new business investment and connecting the Area’s internal street
The existing industrial area is located in the southeast part of network to enhance the pedestrian experience.
the CRA. Its industrial base includes warehouse, distribution and
manufacturing makes it ideal for urban renewal efforts focused
on creating and maintaining jobs for the existing businesses and to
promote urban diversity by encouraging a range of creative and
35
10.6 General Location and Scope
36
Figure 4:
Target Areas
Lealman CRA Focus Areas Map
GANO BLVD
Pinellas~
Countyf
Lea Iman
Community Redevelopment Area
,_ 5
Map Legend
O Boundary Line
Property Parcels
- Leatman Heights
Targeted Redevelopment Distrtcts
Waterbodies
A
Y.. Y2 Miles
Pinellas County Planning, April 2016
37
Concept to Construct: an
overview of the regulatory controls that guide the
fiscal and programmatic implementation of the
programs and projects used to achieve the vision
of the Lealman Community Redevelopment
Area Plan.
11.0 Neighborhood Impact (163.362(3), F.S.) 11.2 Environmental Quality Impacts
Community redevelopment plans include a neighborhood impact Environmental quality in the Area will improve in several ways as a
assessment describing the impact of redevelopment upon the result of redevelopment in the area. Visual pollution will be reduced
residents of the redevelopment area and the surrounding areas through the redevelopment process, when deteriorated structures
in terms of relocation, traffic circulation, environmental quality, are either renovated or replaced with new development, and
availability of community facilities and services, effect on school property maintenance is improved. The addition of pedestrian
population, and other matters affecting the physical and social amenities, public open space, and public landscape will greatly
quality of the area. enhance the visual attractiveness of the area; and property
with any environmental contamination will undergo appropriate
11.1 Traffic Circulation Impacts remediation prior to redevelopment, including property in public
and private ownership.
Future development may require a modification to accommodate
traffic demands and future street design concepts. As 11.3 Availability of Community Facilities & Services
documented in the Findings of Necessity Report, there is a need
Throughout the life of the CRA Plan, it is expected that TIF and
to improve the condition of some streets, increase sidewalks,
other readily available funds will be utilized to improve existing
improve connectivity, upgrade lighting and provide additional
parks and may fund additional park and public open space
parking. Improved transit was also identified.
facilities that will reflect the culture of the area, while creating
attractive public assets that will be appreciated and utilized by
Potential negative consequences of such initiatives may include
residents from the Area.
an increase of traffic, noise and general congestion. With proper
planning, however, many of these side-effects can be mitigated 11.4 Effect on School Population
and the full benefits of increased activity can be realized. Solutions
to negative consequences should be sought through thoughtful The CRA does not foresee any effect on the schools, not already
project design and implementation. (For example, issues such as mentioned elsewhere in this Plan, to support the residential
increased traffic congestion can be addressed through creative element within the Area.
remedies such as re-reestablishment of the gridded street system,
bike lanes, traffic calming, increased transit connectivity, and/ 12.0 Tax Increment Finance Fund
or pedestrian-friendly streetscapes.) In short, long-term adverse
impacts to residential areas are not expected as a result of One of the primary funding mechanism for CRA projects in the
redevelopment. Lealman CRA Tax Increment Finance Fund. This fund is comprised
of the tax increment revenue collected from Pinellas County.
Improvements to the transportation system will be likely undertaken
both by the private sector and the Community Redevelopment Table 2 details the anticipated TIF revenue that is projected to
Agency through the use of TIF and other readily available sources be available for Community Redevelopment projects and
of funding, and hopefully by PSTA, for improvement to transit programs. The anticipated TIF revenues are based on an annual
service in the area. These changes will create an improved appreciation of property values of 2.0% - 5.5%. Future
transportation network, which will allow for easy movement for development within the CRA boundaries and projects that
residents, visitors and improved access for future businesses. have not yet been approved or permitted may increase the
40
potential TIF revenue in addition to the revenue estimate shown
in Table 2.
41
13.0 Plan Implementation Table 3:
Short-Term Tasks
Implementation recommendations in this Plan are subject to Year 1 Year 2 Resource: Details
change at any time by the Agency at any duly noticed public In coordination with the Pinellas County Staff: In coordination with the MPO to evaluate
hearing. The Agency has the authority to decide when and if any County Metropolitan Planning
Organization (MPO) to evaluate
existing commercial corridors in the Area for
consideration of Complete Street redevelopment
of the recommendations in whole or in part, will be implemented. corridors for Complete Streets projects. Begin tasks associated with developing a
redevelopment projects. Complete Streets Masterplan for targeted corridors.
Simply because an item appears in this plan, does not mean Initiate the Complete Streets design County Staff and/or Consultant: In coordination with the
that the Agency is bound to provide funds for that particular process in coordination with the MPO MPO, develop a Complete Streets Masterplan
on previously identified corridors. consistent with the County Land Development
redevelopment activity, district or sub-area. Regulations.
Initiate outreach to existing Area Through initial outreach and County Staff: Create business directory and business
13.1 Short-Term Tasks businesses and establish a current
business directory and to identify
organization efforts, create a
Lealman CRA Business Association
association as well as reach out to identify current
business assistance needs and thus implement and
business development, retention and begin to implement business / market applicable programs.
and recruitment assistance needs. economic development programs.
Table 3 outlines short-term tasks that address immediate cost
Initiate regional stormwater system County Staff: Initiate dialogue with other county
effective actions that may be initiated by the CRA and baseline discussions with other county departments and outside agencies regarding
departments and outside applicability and feasibility for the potential use of
activities and will enable the implementation of projects and agencies. regional stormwater system in CRA to enable increased
programs identified in the Strategic Action Plan. parcel utilization.
As a continuation from Year 1 County Staff: Coordinate with other county departments
tasks, complete a Regional and agencies to complete a Regional Stormwater
13.2 Strategic Action Plan Stormwater Master Planning Masterplan if found feasible during Year 1.
Initiate outreach with potential Implement programs with County Staff: Identify potential Financial, Service
The purpose of the Strategic Action Plan (SAP) is to set an transit partners and identify strategic partners to complement Delivery and Infrastructure P3 opportunities. Engage
opportunities to expand upon and enhance existing transit strategic partner(s) to implement programs that will
anticipated course for the investment of public resources to existing public transit services. service. complement existing transit services and generally
improve the overall quality of life and economic health in the enhance access to public transit.
Identification and cataloguing Prepare catalog and marketing County Staff: Complete a database of available or
Lealman CRA. The SAP will act in concert with the CRA Plan to of vacant parcels for brochure of vacant parcels for vacant parcels for marketing and development. Initiate
distribution to local and regional
present activities that build upon those initial tasks identified in development of marketing
brochure. chambers and economic
additional marketing of the CRA to stimulate private
sector investment.
Section 14.1 and act as the redevelopment outline for the Area development corporations.
Draft design guidelines to implement County Staff: Draft a Form Base Code or similar design
for the years 2017-2022. Undertake an urban design
analysis, based upon the in the Area as Targeted, Form Base guidelines to implement in the Area as Targeted, Form
principles of new urbanism to Code Districts. Base Code Districts consistent with the County Land
evaluate potential districts. Development Regulations.
The SAP will include a financial funding plan for redevelopment
Evaluate vacant parcels for re- County Staff: Identify land banking options, locations
projects and programs. Due to relatively low projected TIF use, land banking& assemblage. and ownership of parcels.
revenues of only approximately $1.3 million over the first five years, Identify small scale future land use County Staff: Identify specific parcels that may require
amendment opportunities within an immediate change of land use for specific project or
a pay as you go approach will be taken. Schedule and funding CRA. development opportunity.
prioritization will be collectively agreed on by Pinellas County Assist with community engagement County Staff: Assist the Lealman CRA Advisory
activities to create a new Lealman
and the CRA Agency and will be revisited annually and adjusted CRA Brand Identity
Committee with community engagement activities to
create a new Lealman CRA Brand that can be used on
to account for changing TIF projections, potential TIF financing future Lealman CRA literature, promotional campaigns,
signage, websites, and through redevelopment
opportunities, improving market conditions and accelerated Evaluate CRA Area for potential projects.
County Staff: Evaluate alternate locations throughout
private reinvestment in the Area. All financial activities will be filed Public Area sites or existing site
enhancement opportunities.
CRA for potential public space, or gathering area.
and reported annually to satisfy the requirements of the Community Evaluate process improvements to Complete a proactive County Staff: In collaboration with county code
Redevelopment Act, Section 163.356(c) and 163.387(8), Florida existing code enforcement policies neighborhood preservation plan enforcement, evaluate existing code enforcement
and amend as necessary to most to enhance existing code policies for potential process improvements and
Statutes, respectively. effectively impact the Area. enforcement and community completing of a supplemental neighborhood
efforts. preservation plan to more effectively impact the Area.
42
14.0 Capital Projects (163.362(4).F.S.) 15.0 Cost and Timing of Redevelopment
The Community Redevelopment Agency will evaluate and make 15.1 Cost of Redevelopment
specific recommendations to the County regarding a variety of
potential capital improvements within the CRA. These projects It is anticipated that the direct costs of private sector redevelopment
will be identified in the Strategic Action Plan for the Lealman CRA will be borne mainly by the private sector, on both public and
(to be completed following the establishment of the trust fund) privately-owned property. However, the commitments to provide
and incorporated into the County’s Five-Year Schedule of Capital new infrastructure already in place by Pinellas County, State of
Improvements. Florida Department of Transportation, Pinellas County School Board
and other public sector organizations or service providers will be
Capital projects may include upgrades and/or connections borne by the respective entity.
to existing infrastructure and utilities that serve the CRA, new or
expanded public open space, public parking facilities, pedestrian- It is the intent of the Agency, as indicated by the preparation of this
oriented improvements such as sidewalks, landscaping, street Plan and the subsequent CRA designation, to program additional
furniture, signage and surface transportation improvements, capital improvements as required, and as funding becomes
including a reorientation of local streets and transit facilities. Such available, from sources; including federal and state grants, loans,
recommendations will be considered in accordance with the vision private funds, tax increment finance revenues, Penny for Pinellas
and goals of the CRA Plan, the needs and recommendations of and Pinellas County general funds.
Area property owners, and actual redevelopment proposals and
15.2 Timing of Redevelopment
projects which come about.
The redevelopment of the Lealman Community Redevelopment
No use of tax increment revenues should be approved that Area is anticipated to be complete within a 30 year period
will replace funding for projects that are already funded with (2016-2046) commencing upon approval of the Plan. Urban
another revenue source or to pay for existing County debt for redevelopment is more complex and requires the assumption of
County-funded projects in the Area. "Existing debt" is any County more risk than conventional new development in suburban areas,
encumbrance for any capital projects ongoing, or planned and and can be more time-consuming.
funded at the date of the approval of this Plan.
Such development is also more dependent on economic cycles
Pinellas County will retain the responsibility of ensuring adequate than more conventional, growth - driven suburban development,
public infrastructure and public safety, and a redevelopment and appeals to a smaller potential marketplace. The Lealman
environment conducive to achieving the Policies, Goals and Community Redevelopment Area is positioned well, both
Objectives for the Area articulated within the Pinellas County geographically and in terms of the adjacent emerging area
Comprehensive Plan. The County will also retain the ability to enter markets, for redevelopment activity, provided the community
into development agreements with private sector entities to assist support described herein is set in place.
in the achievement of those goals and objectives.
43
16.0 Development Controls development occurs, the County shall update its Comprehensive
Plan and/or Land Development Code, as appropriate, to support
16.1 Implementation and Safeguards (163.362(5),F.S.) redevelopment that is consistent with the overall Plan.
The Agency shall be fully subject to the Florida Sunshine Law and 16.3 Replacement Housing and Relocation Assurances
will meet as necessary to carry out the business of the Agency. (163.362(7), F.S.)
Its publicly adopted by-laws govern the Agency in its activities, Some severe building deterioration exists in the Area. The CRA
and its administrative policies. The CRA shall provide adequate may choose to pursue property acquisition and/or consolidation
safeguards to ensure that all leases, deeds, contracts, agreements, in order to further enhance the quality of both residential and
and declarations of restrictions regarding any real property non-residential areas and for the realization of the Lealman
conveyed shall contain restrictions, covenants running with the redevelopment objectives listed in this Plan. Property acquisition
land and its uses, or other such provisions necessary to carry out programs may be in the best interest of the CRA and the County in
this Plan. the promotion of a high-quality, affordable housing stock. In such
instances, it shall be the policy of the Agency that any persons
The Community Redevelopment Agency shall complete an displaced as a result of redevelopment projects shall be provided
annual report on the status and progress of programs and projects. services that will ensure they are not unduly inconvenienced by
Through its monthly meetings, the Agency shall gather input their relocation. In the implementation of this Plan, the Agency
from property owners, citizens and interested parties regarding will provide fair and equitable treatment to any and all displaced
redevelopment activities; and discuss strategies relating to local persons; including the full opportunity to occupy comparable
redevelopment issues. replacement housing, concerning cost, location and related
aesthetic considerations. The Agency will attempt to minimize the
The CRA will carry out the work of redevelopment according disruptions caused by the relocation, provide maximum choice to
to established process consistent with Chapter 163, Part III, those required to relocate, provide whatever ancillary relocation
Community Redevelopment of the Florida Statures. It is the intent services may be required to those in need of special assistance,
of the Agency to comply with those requirements as established such as the elderly or physically challenged, and make a diligent
in Chapter 163, Part III, of the Florida Statutes. effort to avoid any financial hardship to displaced persons, due
to the relocation process. The Agency will observe the same
16.2 Development Controls (163.362(6),F.S.) guidelines with businesses and non-profit organizations required
to relocate. Relocation assistance will be provided through the
All development and redevelopment within the Area shall be County’s Division of Housing and Community Development,
consistent with the adopted existing Comprehensive Plan, all local more particularly described in Sections 38-81 through 38-86 of the
building and zoning codes, and other applicable regulations. The Pinellas County Comprehensive Plan.
Agency may review and/or provide that all site and construction
plans, permit requests, deeds, contracts, agreements, and If any redevelopment project or program within the Area requires
declarations of restrictions relative to any real property conveyed that even one person be involuntarily displaced from a residential
or leased shall contain restrictions and/or covenants, running with unit, the project or program must contain a relocation plan that
the land and its uses, or other such provisions necessary to carry adheres to all applicable laws. The County Commission and the
out the objectives and strategies of this CRA Plan. Additionally, as Agency must approve the relocation plan in a publicly noticed
44
meeting before any final approval of the project or program. Open House. Hard copy surveys were made available for those
interested participants without internet access. The survey was
If any projects or program requiring involuntary relocation completed by approximately 100 interested individuals.
involve federal funds, the Agency shall make it a condition of
CRA participation that all provisions of the Uniform Relocation 17.3 Open House
Assistance and Real Property Acquisition Act are met. This strategy
adheres to the requirements of Chapters 163 and 421, Florida A Community Open House, coordinated by Pinellas County
Statutes. Planning, was held on February 18, 2016 at the ‘R’ Club in Lealman.
A postage paid postcard announcing the Open House was
16.4 Residential Use Inclusion (163.362(8), F.S.) mailed to property owners on February 4. A similar event flyer was
made available at multiple businesses located within the Area
In accordance with Section 163.362, F.S. the inclusion of residential and also distributed throughout the residential areas by Adopt-
uses within the Lealman Community Redevelopment Area is vital a-block volunteers on February 13. The County issued a press
to the success of this Community Redevelopment Area Plan. release about the process and event date to its media list as well
Reduction of blighted conditions increased, safety and security as posting the event details and flyer on the County website. On
and the provision of adequate, high-quality workforce housing the evening of the event, signs were posted at key intersections
within these existing residential areas was identified as a key issue and the event site.
by residents and stakeholders during various public meetings,
workshops and open house. The Plan includes strategies and The purpose of meeting with the community was to discuss the
programs to preserve existing residential areas while revitalizing County's intentions with regard to the establishment of a CRA, the
and diversifying the housing stock, including increasing workforce process to be followed, and to solicit input from Area’s property
housing opportunities. owners, tenants and other stakeholders. The Open House was
well attended (72 individuals chose to sign the register), with
17.0 Public Participation representatives from a diverse range of community stakeholders.
45
Appendix A: Legal Description – Lealman Community Redevelopment Area (163.362(1), F.S.)
An area of unincorporated Pinellas County, Florida, situated within Sections 26, 33, 34, and 35, Township 30 South, Range 16 East and Sections 2, 3,
and 4, Township 31 South, Range 16 East, being described as follows:
Begin at the East Quarter Corner of Section 34, Township 30 South, Range 16 East, run N 00°01'W, for a distance of 150 feet more or less; thence S
89°47'E, for a distance of 274 feet more or less; thence N 00°25'E, for a distance of 240 feet more or less; thence N 89°46'W, for a distance of 126 feet
more or less; thence N 00°05'W, for a distance of 274 feet more or less; thence N 89°59'W, for a distance of 150 feet more or less; thence N 00°02'W,
for a distance of 165 feet more or less; thence S 90°00'E, for a distance of 150 feet more or less; thence S 00°08'E, for a distance of 139 feet more or
less; thence N 89°59'E, for a distance of 345 feet more or less; thence N 32°20'W, for a distance of 709 feet more or less; thence N 28°25'W, for a dis-
tance of 73 feet more or less; thence N 00°03'E, for a distance of 111 feet more or less; thence S 89°50'E, for a distance of 162 feet more or less; thence
N 31°49'W, for a distance of 186 feet more or less; thence N 89°42'W, for a distance of 40 feet more or less; thence N 32°02'W, for a distance of 201
feet more or less; thence N 00°01'W, for a distance of 1515 feet more or less; thence S 89°48'E, for a distance of 333 feet more or less; thence N 00°04'E,
for a distance of 18 feet more or less; thence S 89°47'E, for a distance of 137 feet more or less; thence N 00°04'E, for a distance of 150 feet more or
less; thence N 89°47'W, for a distance of 137 feet more or less; thence N 00°04'E, for a distance of 250 feet more or less; thence S 89°47'E, for a distance
of 137 feet more or less; thence N 00°04'E, for a distance of 100 feet more or less; thence N 89°47'W, for a distance of 137 feet more or less; thence N
00°04'E, for a distance of 114 feet more or less; thence S 89°50'E, for a distance of 333 feet more or less; thence N 00°04'E, for a distance of 30 feet
more or less; thence S 89°50'E, for a distance of 329 feet more or less; thence N 00°38'E, for a distance of 372 feet more or less; thence N 10°41'W, for
a distance of 640 feet more or less; thence S 89°52'E, for a distance of 503 feet more or less; thence S 14°07'W, for a distance of 285 feet more or less;
thence S 04°07'W, for a distance of 1000 feet more or less; thence S 49°32'W, for a distance of 114 feet more or less; thence S 00°04'W, for a distance
of 85 feet more or less; thence N 89°48'W, for a distance of 80 feet more or less; thence S 00°04'W, for a distance of 200 feet more or less; thence S
89°48'E, for a distance of 255 feet more or less; thence S 00°05'W, for a distance of 692 feet more or less; thence S 89°47'E, for a distance of 2657 feet
more or less; thence S 00°00'E, for a distance of 2642 feet more or less; thence N 89°59'E, for a distance of 57 feet more or less; thence S 04°11'E, for a
distance of 46 feet more or less to a Point on Curve, a radial to said point being S88°24'W; thence Southeasterly 711 feet more or less along the arc
of a curve, concave to the east, having a radius of 2224 feet, through a central angle of 18°19', a chord bearing of S 10°46'E, 708 feet more or less to
a Point of Non-Tangency; thence S 15°25'E, for a distance of 598 feet more or less to a Point on Curve, a radial to said point being N60°38'E; thence
Southeasterly 32 feet more or less along the arc of a curve, concave to the west, having a radius of 56 feet, through a central angle of 33° 26', a
chord bearing of S 12° 39'E, 32 feet more or less to a Point of Non-Tangency; thence S 07°49'E, for a distance of 1446 feet more or less; thence S
28°23'E, for a distance of 29 feet more or less; thence S 10°21'E, for a distance of 78 feet more or less; thence S 04°57'E, for a distance of 91 feet more
or less; thence S 05°09'E, for a distance of 341 feet more or less; thence S 00°34'W, for a distance of 260 feet more or less; thence S 06°25'E, for a dis-
tance of 247 feet more or less; thence S 00°34'W, for a distance of 89 feet more or less; thence N 56°42'W, for a distance of 36 feet more or less; thence
S 00°36'W, for a distance of 107 feet more or less; thence S 00°34'W, for a distance of 1318 feet more or less; thence S 89°52'E, for a distance of 5 feet
more or less; thence S 00°24'W, for a distance of 638 feet more or less; thence S 89°51'E, for a distance of 25 feet more or less; thence S 00°24'W, for a
distance of 1326 feet more or less; thence N 89°56'W, for a distance of 4739 feet more or less; thence N 03°12'W, for a distance of 287 feet more or
less; thence N 03°00'E, for a distance of 49 feet more or less; thence N 44°23'W, for a distance of 486 feet more or less; thence S 00°25'W, for a distance
of 340 feet more or less; thence N 89°59'W, for a distance of 206 feet more or less; thence N 00°19'E, for a distance of 295 feet more or less; thence S
89°49'W, for a distance of 308 feet more or less; thence S 00°35'W, for a distance of 631 feet more or less; thence N 89°53'W, for a distance of 300 feet
more or less; thence S 87°15'W, for a distance of 56 feet more or less; thence N 90°00'W, for a distance of 1932 feet more or less; thence N 75°59'W,
for a distance of 63 feet more or less; thence N 89°51'W, for a distance of 670 feet more or less; thence S 00°17'W, for a distance of 18 feet more or
less; thence N 89°28'W, for a distance of 609 feet more or less; thence S 02°05'E, for a distance of 7 feet more or less; thence N 89°52'W, for a distance
of 1959 feet more or less; thence N 89°38'W, for a distance of 2686 feet more or less; thence N 00°35'E, for a distance of 591 feet more or less; thence
N 07°34'W, for a distance of 151 feet more or less; thence N 00°46'E, for a distance of 1201 feet more or less; thence N 06°34'W, for a distance of 131
feet more or less; thence N 00°31'E, for a distance of 1914 feet more or less; thence N 89°42'W, for a distance of 297 feet more or less; thence N 00°24'E,
for a distance of 199 feet more or less; thence N 89°41'W, for a distance of 171 feet more or less; thence S 00°24'W, for a distance of 199 feet more or
less; thence N 89°42'W, for a distance of 75 feet more or less; thence N 00°24'E, for a distance of 94 feet more or less; thence N 89°41'W, for a distance
of 75 feet more or less; thence S 00°24'W, for a distance of 94 feet more or less; thence N 89°42'W, for a distance of 15 feet more or less; thence N
46
00°23'E, for a distance of 399 feet more or less; thence S 89°46'E, for a distance of 172 feet more or less; thence N 00°31'E, for a distance of 214 feet
more or less; thence N 00°09'E, for a distance of 51 feet more or less; thence N 89°56'W, for a distance of 37 feet more or less; thence N 00°03'W, for
a distance of 219 feet more or less; thence N 89°44'W, for a distance of 100 feet more or less; thence N 00°03'W, for a distance of 439 feet more or
less; thence N 89°47'W, for a distance of 670 feet more or less; thence N 00°03'W, for a distance of 647 feet more or less; thence S 89°57'E, for a dis-
tance of 1326 feet more or less; thence N 00°21'E, for a distance of 667 feet more or less; thence S 89°53'E, for a distance of 659 feet more or less;
thence N 00°33'E, for a distance of 660 feet more or less; thence S 89°56'E, for a distance of 691 feet more or less; thence S 00°37'W, for a distance of
50 feet more or less; thence S 89°56'E, for a distance of 100 feet more or less; thence S 00°44'W, for a distance of 265 feet more or less; thence S 89°56'E,
for a distance of 179 feet more or less; thence N 00°44'E, for a distance of 265 feet more or less; thence S 89°56'E, for a distance of 802 feet more or
less; thence N 43°56'W, for a distance of 34 feet more or less; thence S 89°57'E, for a distance of 235 feet more or less; thence S 00°27'W, for a distance
of 238 feet more or less; thence S 44°21'E, for a distance of 1434 feet more or less; thence S 50°06'E, for a distance of 6 feet more or less; thence S
43°00'E, for a distance of 41 feet more or less; thence N 89°56'E, for a distance of 135 feet more or less; thence N 00°10'E, for a distance of 259 feet
more or less; thence N 89°36'E, for a distance of 1126 feet more or less; thence S 00°03'W, for a distance of 91 feet more or less; thence N 90°00'E, for
a distance of 15 feet more or less; thence S 00°00'W, for a distance of 185 feet more or less; thence N 89°58'E, for a distance of 312 feet more or less;
thence N 00°07'E, for a distance of 1325 feet more or less; thence S 89°47'E, for a distance of 3613 feet more or less; thence S 00°09'E, for a distance
of 949 feet more or less; thence S 89°47'E, for a distance of 164 feet more or less; thence N 00°14'W, for a distance of 949 feet more or less; thence S
89°52'E, for a distance of 164 feet more or less to the POINT OF BEGINNING. Containing: 109,986,201 square feet or 2,524.936 acres more or less.
47
Appendix B: Comprehensive Plan Review the intent of the Future Land Use & Quality Communities Element.
In accordance with Section 163.360(2)(a), Florida Statutes,
‘The community redevelopment plan shall conform to the Transportation Element
comprehensive plan for the county or municipality as prepared
by the local planning agency under the Local Government Goal One: Provide for a safe, convenient, and energy efficient
Comprehensive Planning and Land Development Regulation multimodal transportation system that serves to increase mobility,
Act.’ reduce the incidence of single-occupant vehicles, protect
roadway capacity, reduce the contribution to air pollution from
The Lealman Community Redevelopment Area’s revitalization motorized vehicles and improve the quality of life for the citizens
efforts must positively reflect upon those goals and policies of Pinellas County.
adopted in the Pinellas County Comprehensive Plan. The
following are the Goals from the Pinellas County Comprehensive The provisions of the Lealman Community Redevelopment Area
Plan Elements that are specifically addressed by the Lealman Plan, more particularly, Objectives 4, 5, 7 and 9, further the intent
Community Redevelopment Area Plan: of the Transportation Element.
Future Land Use & Quality Communities Element Natural Resource Conservation & Management Element
Goal Three: Pinellas County's plan shall promote a balanced Environmental Lands and Resource-Based Parks
relationship between the natural environment and development. Goal Three: Pinellas County's environmental lands and resource-
based parks are the hallmark of this County’s environmental
Goal Four: Pinellas County shall work toward a land use pattern commitment, and these lands are to be protected and managed
that can be supported by the available community and public in perpetuity for their contribution to the biodiversity and biological
facilities that would be required to serve that development. sustainability of the region, as a means of providing respite from
urban life and because they instill future generations with a sense
The provisions of the Lealman Community Redevelopment Area of appreciation for Florida's natural heritage.
Plan, more particularly, Objectives 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9, further
48
Strengthened Connections to the Water Coastal Land Use
Goal Four: Pinellas County will remain a leader in the protection Goal Four: Land use designations and decisions in the coastal
and restoration of its surface waters and the dependent habitats planning area shall be consistent with the Future Land Use &
and resources which are essential to this County’s character, Quality Communities' Element of this comprehensive plan and
economy and quality of life. compatible with protection of the County’s natural and historic
resources, reflecting the need for long-term sustainability,
Floodplains and Floodplain Management continued economic vitality and consideration for the vulnerability
Goal Six: Pinellas County will preserve, protect, restore and of the County’s coastal location.
manage the natural resources of its floodplains to maintain or
enhance water quality, plant and animal diversity, and aquatic The provisions of the Lealman Community Redevelopment Area
productivity, to protect the flood storage value and purpose, and Plan, more particularly, Objectives 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7 and 9, further the
to protect the public and minimize property damage. intent of the Coastal Management Element.
49
The provisions of the Lealman Community Redevelopment Area
Plan, more particularly, Objectives 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9, further Sustainability of the County's Recreation and Open Space System
the intent of the Intergovernmental Coordination Element. Goal Six: To practice and promote a sustainability ethic, ensuring
that ecological limits and environmental impacts are considered
Recreation. Open Space & Culture Element in all decisions and designs affecting cultural, recreation and
open space planning, and that all decisions and projects
The Provision of Recreation and Open Space contribute incrementally to achieving and sustaining social
Goal One: To administer outstanding countywide recreational, equity, economic prosperity and a quality community for current
open space and environmental systems that provide, through and future residents.
acquisition, development and maintenance, sufficient resource-
based regional parks and environmental lands that are The provisions of the Lealman Community Redevelopment Area
environmentally sustainable, foster environmental stewardship Plan, more particularly, Objectives 1, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7, further the
and enhance the County’s economic vitality and the quality of intent of the Recreation. Open Space & Culture Element.
life for residents and visitors.
Potable Water Supply, Wastewater & Reuse Element
Protection and Management of Parks and Environmental Lands
Goal One: High quality and affordable potable water will be
Goal Two: To protect, in perpetuity, the open space value and
available to meet the existing and projected demands of Pinellas
countywide public purpose of the
County’s regional parks, environmental lands and open spaces, county utility customers.
and to develop, implement and adhere to the individual
management plans and strategies for these irreplaceable public Goal Two: Wastewater collection, treatment, reuse and disposal
assets. facilities are available to safely meet existing and future demands,
in a manner that contributes to water conservation, and does not
Strengthening Connections to the Water degrade the surrounding natural environment.
Goal Three: To strengthen public connections to Pinellas county
waters and waterways through the maintenance, promotion and Goal Three: Pinellas County shall continue to be a leader in the use
environmentally-sensitive expansion of recreational access. of reclaimed water, resource conservation and other alternative
technologies as a means of reducing demand on potable water
Facility-Based Recreation resources and limiting the impact of fresh water withdrawals on
Goal Four: To make urban levels of facility-based recreation more the natural environment.
accessible to unincorporated residents when opportunities arise
through financially-feasible strategies and beneficial partnerships. The provisions of the Lealman Community Redevelopment Area
Plan, more particularly, Objectives 4, 5 and 7, further the intent of
Cultural, Historic and Archaeological Resources the Potable Water Supply, Wastewater & Reuse Element.
Goal Five: To promote the arts, culture, and historic and
archaeological resources within Pinellas county, and their Solid Waste and Resource Recovery Element
preservation, through public and private investment and by Goal One: Reduce the quantity of waste generated and disposed
raising awareness of existing facilities and programs. of in Pinellas County in order to conserve natural resources, recover
resources which have the potential for further usefulness, and to
50
extend the life of the landfill to the fullest extent.
The provisions of the Lealman Community Redevelopment Area
Goal Two: Collect and dispose of solid waste in the most Plan, more particularly, Objectives 1, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9, further
economically feasible, efficient, and environmentally safe the intent of the Public School Facilities Element.
manner, in order to protect the public health and safety, enhance
the environment, extend the life of the landfill to the fullest, and Capital Improvements Element
recover resources which have the potential for further usefulness.
Goal One: Pinellas County shall undertake actions necessary to
provide adequate, needed public facilities in a manner which
Goal Three: Regulate in the most economically feasible, cost-
protects investments in existing facilities, maximizes the use of
effective, and environmentally safe manner, the processing,
existing facilities, and promotes orderly growth.
source reduction, recycling and disposal of solid and hazardous
waste in order to protect the public health and safety.
The provisions of the Lealman Community Redevelopment Area
Plan, more particularly, Objectives 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7 and 9, Four, Five
The provisions of the Lealman Community Redevelopment Area
and Nine, further the intent of the Capital Improvements Element.
Plan, more particularly, Objectives 4, 5 and 7, further the intent of
the Solid Waste and Resource Recovery Element.
Economic Element
Surface Water Management Element Goal One: To facilitate a strong and robust local economy that
Goal One: Surface waters shall be managed to provide flood provides growth opportunities for existing businesses, attracts new
protection for the citizens of Pinellas high-wage primary employers and promotes a diverse range
County, to preserve and enhance the water quality of receiving of industries through innovative, sustainable methods that, in a
water bodies, and for the purposes of natural resource protection, responsible manner, enhance the County's vitality and the quality
enhancement and restoration, plant and wildlife diversity, and of life for residents and visitors.
estuarine productivity.
The provisions of the Lealman Community Redevelopment Area
The provisions of the Lealman Community Redevelopment Area Plan, more particularly, Objectives 1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9, further
Plan, more particularly, Objectives 3, 4, 5, 7 and 9, further the the intent of the Economic Element.
intent of the Surface Water Management Element.
On May 11, 2016, the Pinellas County Local Planning Agency
Public School Facilities Element (LPA), pursuant to Section 163.360(4), Florida Statutes, submitted its
recommendations with respect to the conformity of the Lealman
Goal Two: Pinellas County shall coordinate with its partner local
Community Redevelopment Area Plan with the Pinellas County
governments and the school district on projects that encourage
Comprehensive Plan.
cohesive neighborhoods, that contribute to community building,
and that provide for long-term sustainability.
Goal Three: Pinellas County will coordinate with the school district
and other local governments to improve the safety of students as
they access public school facilities.
51
APPENDIX C:
STRATEGIC ACTION PLAN AND SPENDING BUDGET
The programs and projects described in this Appendix are a continuation of Section 13.2 of the Lealman Community
Redevelopment Area Plan (Plan). The Strategic Action Plan (SAP) sets an anticipated course of action for the
investment of Tax Increment Financing funds and other public resources in the Lealman CRA, based on a framework
that acts in concert with the Plan and presents programs and activities based on the objectives and strategies
described in the Plan.
With ongoing input and support from the Lealman Community Redevelopment Area Advisory Committee, the Pinellas
County Community Redevelopment Agency establishes programs and projects, focusing on people-based and place-
based initiatives and priority areas. Implementation of programs and projects will focus on the objectives and strategies
referenced within Sections 7.0, 7.1, 8.0, 9.2 of the Plan.
Table C-1 indicates projected Tax Increment Financing revenue to be received over the 30-year life of the CRA. Table
C-2 (subset of Table C-3) outlines projected spending for FY17-18 (Two Year Spending Budget). Table C-3 outlines
projected spending and programs through 2047 (30 year TIF period).
Program and project implementation is based on the utilization of Tax Increment Financing (TIF) as a primary funding
mechanism. On June 7, 2016 (Ordinance No. 16-35) the Redevelopment Trust Fund was established with a 2016 Base
Year, and will direct an estimated $59.9 million dollars over the 30 year lifecycle of the Plan. Program scheduling and
funding prioritization shall remain compliant with the approved plan or amended as needed per F.S. 163(III). The
following table; (Table C-1: Estimated Annual Tax Increment Revenue, 2017-2047) amends Table 2, Section 12, page 41
of the Plan indicating updated TIF projections.
52
APPENDIX C:
STRATEGIC ACTION PLAN AND SPENDING BUDGET
Table C-1:
Lealman CRA TIF Revenue Projections, Fiscal Years 2017-2047
Year1 Annual Total: $
2017 $208,273
2018 $552,281
2019 $867,827
2020 $1,083,025
2021 $1,264,849
2022 $1,454,301
2023 $1,651,710
2024 $1,857,414
2025 $2,071,772
2026 $2,227,817
2027 $2,388,364
2028 $2,503,473
2029 $2,620,885
2030 $2,740,645
2031 $2,862,799
2032 $2,987,397
2033 $3,114,488
2034 $3,244,119
2035 $3,376,344
2036 $3,511,212
2037 $3,648,780
2038 $3,789,097
2039 $3,932,220
2040 $4,078,207
2041 $4,227,114
2042 $4,378,997
2043 $4,533,920
2044 $4,691,941
2045 $4,853,122
2046 $5,017,527
2047 $5,185,219
Total $90,925,136
1
Fiscal Years 2017 & 2018 TIF revenue reflect actual TIF payments received. Fiscal Year
2019 through 2047 TIF revenue reflect estimates based on growth assumptions made by
the Pinellas County Office of Management and Budget.
53
APPENDIX C:
STRATEGIC ACTION PLAN AND SPENDING BUDGET
Program and Project descriptions (below) are grouped into the following functional areas: Economic Development;
Neighborhood Revitalization; Education, Job Readiness and Workforce Development; Healthy Community.
Economic Development
Business Development & Lending Program: This program assists local business owners and entrepreneurs with access to
financial capital and technical expertise in an effort to stimulate new business activity, expand and attract new commercial
activity in the CRA. These programs will be structured to work in coordination with local partner programs including but not
limited to Pinellas County Economic Development.
• Business Development Support – This program provides access to business development training through workshops and/or
one-on-one sessions with business development experts. This program aids entrepreneurs, new and established business
professionals with instrumental tasks such as business plan development, inventory and budget analysis, or start-up and
operational requirements such as business licenses, insurance, and taxes. This program will also offer networking opportunities
with local business leaders.
• Lending Program – The program assists by connecting new and established professionals with local participating financial
lending institutions, which can be used to aide in business creation and/or expansion within the CRA. The Agency may
support business owners by providing financial assistance to reduce lending risks or in ‘buying down’ interest rates, enabling
lenders to approve borrowers who otherwise may not qualify.
Business Recruitment/Retention Program: The program offers marketing, planning, and financial assistance support to new
or existing businesses that expand or relocate within the CRA. The intent of this program is to improve the quality and access
of jobs and businesses in the CRA by attracting and promoting entrepreneurs who are committed to workforce expansion,
quality job creation, and developing a stronger workforce through fairly compensated salaries. These programs will be
structured to work in coordination with local partner programs including but not limited to Pinellas County Economic
Development.
• Development of a Marketing Packet (CRA Admin Staff) – Development of a commercial marketing information packet
identifying potential development and redevelopment locations including incentives available to businesses who relocate to
the CRA.
54
APPENDIX C:
STRATEGIC ACTION PLAN AND SPENDING BUDGET
• Business Operations Improvements Program – Provides financial assistance, in the form of a low-interest loan, grant or
matching grant to property or business owners for eligible expenses associated with interior and/or site improvements that
improve the functionality of the building or site to improve normal business operations and extend the economic viability of
the business.
• Micro-Loan Program - Provides loans to businesses within the CRA that may otherwise not meet typical lending requirements
due to reasons such as, but not limited to, lack of documented financials, adequate net income, intended use of loan,
years in business, collateral or entity type. The loans will be offered at low interest rates for loans ranging from $10,000 -
$25,000.
Organizational Support Program: Provides support and assistance to local businesses and community organizations in an
effort to promote, coordinate, and enhance their development and growth, with the goal of developing programs or services
that impact and benefit both the organization and residents. (example: business/merchant, community, neighborhood
associations)
Renewable Energy Program: Provides financial and market-based incentives for new or existing commercial facilities
powered by renewable energy. It offers consumer rebates for the installation of wind and solar renewable energy systems.
The program also promotes educational initiatives regarding renewable energy.
Brownfield Program: Provides funds for Phase I and Phase II environmental site assessments, public health monitoring, clean-
up planning, and community outreach activities in cooperation with all available state and federal programs.
Tax Exemption Program: Provides a tax exemption type incentive, for a term length to be determined at the time this
program is implemented, on property tax increases to new or existing businesses that are applied to the maintenance and
updating of existing commercial property. Improvements made must be permanent and stay with the building. The intent of
this program is to reduce slum and blight by improving the appearance and quality of the commercial building stock and to
attract new construction. This incentive may be designed as an actual recorded exemption or as a rebate/reimbursement of
increases for the determined period of time. * (Incentive specifics TBD at time of program implementation in conjunction with
applicable polices).
55
APPENDIX C:
STRATEGIC ACTION PLAN AND SPENDING BUDGET
Residential Improvement Program: Provides financial assistance intended to reduce or eliminate the costs associated with
the repair, rehabilitation, and enhancement of residential structures. Improvements must be permanent and stay with the
building. The program’s intent is to improve the appearance, structural quality, energy efficiency; (energy audits, insulation,
widow, energy star appliances, low flow flush toilets etc.), and overall safety of the existing residential housing stock.
Additionally, the program promotes the creation of pedestrian friendly “walkable” neighborhoods through increased “curb
appeal’ of existing properties and establishes community standards for property appearance. This program can function
independently or in conjunction with Community Development Programs.
Non-Residential Improvement Program: Provides financial assistance for a new or existing non-residential structure to
reduce the costs associated with the repairs or enhancements to the site. Improvements made must be permanent and
remain with the building. The intent of this program is to accelerate and leverage private investment as a way to improve the
appearance, quality, and functionality of existing non-residential buildings in the CRA, while also creating a more consistent
and visually appealing public realm. This program will consist of up to four distinct types of projects/improvements, including:
• Façade Program – To assist with exterior facade improvements including ADA exterior accessibility
• Demolition Program – To assist in the removal of substandard structures and other blighting factors in Site
• Infrastructure Program – To assist property owners with costs associated with site specific infrastructure improvements
• Design Assistance – Assist with costs associated with the preparation and review of conceptual site plan and/or
architectural renderings by a professional consultant
Clean Team Program: Provides financial assistance to an organized team of volunteers that assist property owners with
exterior building maintenance, including but not limited to tree trimming, pressure washing, painting, and minor repairs that
do not require permitting. The volunteer organization may also provide supplemental maintenance to the community’s
sidewalks, gutters, and public spaces to lessen the perception of an unsafe and unattractive community. The program
reduces the appearance of slum and blight by supporting local volunteer groups in their effort to improve and enhance the
exterior appearance of non-residential property, residential property, and public spaces.
Target Zone Developer Assistance Program (Residential & Non-Residential): Provides financial assistance in the form of
a rebate/reimbursement for development partners (e.g. Non-profit and for-profit development organizations, partnerships,
etc.) who opts to utilize the staff recommended design standards for the redevelopment or construction of residential, and
multi-family rental properties with less than 100 units located within the identified target zone(s). Any design standards provided
56
APPENDIX C:
STRATEGIC ACTION PLAN AND SPENDING BUDGET
for the Area shall be at this time considered optional, and while not mandatory, it will be considered highly desirable to do so
in an effort to create a more consistent redevelopment pattern and public realm that will create a stronger relationship
between form and function. This program reduces slum and blight and improves the quality of the residential and commercial
building stock by encouraging a mix of affordable housing options, while creating accessible and sustainable neighborhood
commercial corridors. *(Incentive specifics TBD at time of program implementation in conjunction with applicable polices).
Homeownership Program: Provides assistance to existing and first-time homebuyers (including buyers who have not owned
a home within the past three (3) years). The intent of this program is to support the homeownership decision making process
through financial incentives, education, credit counseling, down-payment assistance, and financial hardship services.
*Homeownership Programs may function independently or in conjunction with other Pinellas County and community partner
Programs as deemed appropriate and on a case by case application basis.
• Homebuyer Education and Counseling – Provides counseling and education services to individuals regarding the
purchase and financing of affordable housing.
• Down-Payment Assistance – Provides down payment and/or closing costs assistance to an individual for the purchase of
a home.
• Foreclosure Services – Provides pre-foreclosure services, designed to preserve the affordable housing stock. It is intended
for homeowners who need assistance in the form of a deferred payment loan to pay defaulted mortgages; in default at
least thirty (30) days. The property must be owner occupied and the home and homeowner must meet program qualification
and guidelines.
Building Conversion Program (Residential to Commercial): Provides financial assistance to property owners who convert
existing single-family residential structures along commercial corridors into either work-live or light commercial use structures;
uses may include but are not limited to professional offices, hair studios, and/or boutique style retail shops.
Housing Development Program: Designed to facilitate the construction and renovation of affordable Workforce,
Transitional, Veterans, and Market Rate housing in the CRA. The program provides financial assistance in the form of a
rebate/reimbursement paid to developers to reduce the costs associated with new construction or the repair and
rehabilitation of existing housing. Improvements must be permanent and stay with the building. The rebate will be based on
the increase in Ad-Valorem taxes the first year the project goes on the tax rolls. The applicant will be required to demonstrate
annually that the minimum criteria that was the basis of the approval for the rebate remains, failing this the rebate will be
57
APPENDIX C:
STRATEGIC ACTION PLAN AND SPENDING BUDGET
revoked. The intent of this program is to improve the quality of the affordable housing stock and attract new construction.
*(Incentive specifics such as total term length of program per project TBD at time of program implementation in conjunction
with applicable polices).
Residential Energy Efficiency Program: Provides resource and financial assistance to residential property owners that
upgrade or improve the building’s energy efficiency; including but not limited to energy audits, insulation, widow upgrades,
energy star appliances and low flow flush toilets.
Community Stabilization Program: Provides incentives to partner organizations for the purpose of acquiring and
redevelopment of abandoned and foreclosed properties that might otherwise become sources of slum and blight within the
CRA. (Incentive specifics TBD by staff).
Mixed-Use Infill Redevelopment Program: Provides financial incentives for mixed-use infill development on
abandoned/distressed sites located within appropriately suited areas, while guiding the development so that it enhances
the quality of life in established neighborhoods.
Neighborhood Improvement Program: Broad multifaceted program designed to identify distressed areas and provide
financial incentives or contributions to renovate/rehabilitate existing residential or commercial building stock, provide
neighborhood scale infrastructure projects (sidewalks, drainage, safety, etc.), and provide community outreach to distressed
individuals or families to assist in connecting CRA and partnering organization resources to clients. *Through the
implementation of this program, future public capital improvement projects may be identified. Such improvement projects
will identified as a Capital Improvement Project and identified in the Capital Improvement Plan as required by applicable
state and county policy(s).
Quick Response Workforce Training Program: Provides financial assistance for immediate job training or retraining of new
or existing employees to meet changing skill requirements due to new technology, products, manufacturing methods, and
58
APPENDIX C:
STRATEGIC ACTION PLAN AND SPENDING BUDGET
work skills in an effort to prevent critical job skill shortages. It provides customized hands-on, workplace training as well as related
life and work skills training through accredited workforce development providers including Pinellas County Economic
Development (PCED), Pinellas Technical College, St. Petersburg College, and CareerSource Pinellas to train residents for entry
into the workforce and continuing career opportunities. Training is structured in a flexible manner to “respond quickly” to
meet the businesses or organizations immediate skill needs. The intent of this program is to improve the education and quality
of the local workforce while meeting the needs of local businesses in a timely manner.
Community Incubator & Services Center: Provides contributing funds for the establishment of a community hub where
all citizens have access to programs ranging from afterschool care, homework assistance, employment assistance, and job
readiness skills, pre-college, and continuing education opportunities.
Healthy Community
Access to Healthcare: Improves access to medical and dental healthcare through financial assistance, including but not
limited to removing barriers that prevent people from obtaining healthcare. In addition, it develops community partnerships
to better serve the residents and community at large. (Specifics TBD based on available services and cooperative program
guidelines).
Mobility & Accessibility (PSTA, Pedestrian, Access & Safety, etc.): Promotes and identifies shared funding opportunities
for the planning, design, and construction of mobility and accessibility infrastructure projects. Project examples may include:
upgraded bus stops; enhanced crosswalks; sidewalk enhancements; ADA compliance; and enhanced signaling devices
etc.
Proactive Neighborhood Education Safety & Compliance: Designed to pool code enforcement resources into the
community through additional officers, neighborhood sweeps, citizen education, and a simplified reporting processes (a
proactive approach).
Community Activities Sponsorship Program: Provides local businesses or organizations the opportunity to financially sponsor
community oriented activities or events.
Community Arts & Culture Program: Provides financial assistance to individuals and organizations that promote and
encourage access to art and cultural programs throughout the CRA. In addition, it provides incentives to developers that
contribute 1% of development costs to art/cultural and educational projects. Developer contributions would pay for on-site
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APPENDIX C:
STRATEGIC ACTION PLAN AND SPENDING BUDGET
public art projects, cultural amenities/resources and other artistic enhancements throughout the project area. *(Incentive
specifics such as total term length of program per project TBD at time of program implementation in conjunction with
applicable polices).
Grass Roots Community Program: Provides financial incentives and support to non-profit organizations that organize at
the local level to address community issues in the CRA: including, social and environmental causes; and sustainable food
systems. It encourages grassroots (DIY, Pop-up, City Repair) efforts to improve the livability of the area by creating temporary
street and block scale projects that benefit the community and create a positive impact.
Property Acquisition & Disposition Program: Supports the acquisition and disposition of vacant, abandoned, and
underutilized properties. It provides quick access to gap financing for redevelopment projects requiring additional assistance
such as, pedestrian accessibility & safety projects, “challenge” properties, and industrial sites. The program will facilitate
economically sustainable mixed used and mixed market projects that will incentivize additional catalyst projects to meet
community needs.
Grant Match Fund / Administration Services: Ensures administrative and program continuation and support through
proper planning, management, and grant administration.
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APPENDIX C:
STRATEGIC ACTION PLAN AND SPENDING BUDGET
Table C-2:
Lealman CRA Projected Spending Budget, Fiscal Years 2017-2047
Program/Project Description Estimated Cost* Funding Source1
Economic Development
Small Business Development & Lending Program TIF
Business Recruitment/Retention Program TIF
Organizational Support Program TIF
Micro Loan Program $13,638,770 TIF/Other
Renewable Energy Program TIF
Brownfield Program TIF/Other
Tax Exemption Program TIF/Other
Healthy Community
Access to Healthcare TIF/Other
Mobility & Accessibility (PSTA, Pedestrian, Access & Safety, etc.) TIF/Other
Proactive Neighborhood Compliance, Enforcement & Safety TIF/Other
$18,185,027
Community Activities Sponsorship Program TIF/Other
Community Arts & Culture Program TIF/Other
Grass Roots Community Program TIF/Other
PEOPLE-BASED PROGRAM TOTALS $27,277,541
Future Public Capital Improvement Projects (CIP) & Other Projects
Property Acquisition & Disposition TIF/CIP/Other
$13,638,770
Grant Match Fund / Administration Services TIF/Other
3
Reserve $4,546,257
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APPENDIX C:
STRATEGIC ACTION PLAN AND SPENDING BUDGET
Public Improvements Identified in County CIP: Projects will facilitate and promote multimodal access, connectivity,
safety, and economic development through high quality urban form, design, and environmental sustainability. Projects will
encourage design and construction of parking and streetscape improvements for neighborhood and commercial corridors.
Improvements may include; enhancement to curb and gutters, sidewalks, street lighting, landscaping, and street furniture
(solar trash compactors, benches, and bike racks etc.). The intent of this program is to improve the appearance, quality,
functionality, and accessibility of neighborhood and commercial corridors.
Table C-3:
Existing Public Improvements Identified in Pinellas County Capital Improvement Plan (CIP)
Project Estimated Cost* Funding Source
Joe's Creek Greenway Park Recreation - Phase 1 $100,000 CIP/Other
Lealman Regional Retention Study $400,000 CIP/Other
Lealman Area Joe's Creek Trail Expansion/Alignment (Study) $75,000 CIP/Other
25th St. N from 62nd Ave N to Sawgrass Park (Sidewalk) $300,000 CIP/Other
Joe's Creek Greenway Park Recreation - Phase 2 $700,000 CIP/Other
62nd Ave & 58th St. Intersection(Intersection/Sidewalk $1,100,000 CIP/Other
46th Ave N from 49th St. N to 55th St. (Sidewalk) $700,000 CIP/Other
Joe's Creek Greenway Park Recreation - Phase 2 (Year 1) $745,000 CIP/Other
42nd Ave N From 45th St. N to 35th St. N (Drainage/Sidewalk) $1,600,000 CIP/Other
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