Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Clearwater public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
4 issues in development
Commercial dock and boat lift at 1591 Gulf Boulevard
A beachfront residential building wants formal flexibility to keep a commercial dock with a new boat lift for its 64 units. It's on the barrier island, so waterfront use rules are at stake.
Housing Incentive Programs Evaluation
The committee is updating the city's state-mandated housing incentive strategy. All 16 incentive areas — fast permits, fee cuts, flexible densities, ADUs, parking breaks and more — stay on the books, with one tweak tying parking reductions to special-needs housing. These incentives shape how cheaply and quickly affordable housing can get built in Clearwater.
Accessory dwelling unit (ADU) activity
ADUs are legal in Clearwater, including in some non-residential districts, and interest is clearly rising — three planning applications were filed this month alone. Staff is working to educate the public, and the committee discussed whether the owner-occupancy requirement should stay.
St. Matthew's Cemetery Settlement & Community Healing
The CRA approved a $7.5 million settlement in a lawsuit regarding the former St. Matthew's Cemetery property. Community members and faith leaders urged the city to use this moment to address historical erasure, honor the individuals buried there, and work toward healing and reconciliation.