Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Tarpon Springs public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
8 issues in development
Downtown Pinellas Avenue projects
A church conditional use and the Shoppes at Meres retail site plan are on South Pinellas Avenue. How the committee handles them affects the character of that corridor.
US Highway 19 commercial development
Two US Highway 19 N projects — a Culvers restaurant and the Anclote Harbor Apartments — are moving through technical review. These will shape traffic and commercial activity along the corridor.
New garage and storage structure at 116 N. Pinellas Ave
A small-lot owner near the Greek Orthodox Church wanted a two-story garage/workshop for her arts-and-crafts business, but the board found it dramatically out of scale with the one-story building. She was encouraged to return with a smaller design.
Historic district alterations at the Allworth House
A circa-1905 downtown building will get back its historic full-width balcony, a feature that once sheltered sidewalk pedestrians, plus safer rear stairs. Approved unanimously.
Historical Safford House Roof Replacement
The award for replacing the roof on the historic Safford House was deferred to a date to be determined, delaying preservation work on this city landmark.
Sustainable Development Recognition Program
The committee will present its annual report to the Board of Commissioners in April, likely the April 20 meeting near Earth Day, along with requested proclamations for Earth Day and water conservation.
Redevelopment of the vacant downtown Forbes lot
The vacant CRA-owned lot at 144 E. Tarpon Avenue — vacant since unsafe buildings were demolished — will now get a 15-room boutique hotel with retail, event space and a courtyard. Supporters say it brings life back to downtown and honors the area's history.
Boutique hotel and mixed-use development at 144 E. Tarpon Avenue
A vacant, long-empty lot on Tarpon Avenue will get a two-story hotel with retail, a restaurant/lounge, and a public courtyard that reopens a walk-through connection between Tarpon Avenue and Court Street.