City Commission Meetings - Help Elect Chris

Updates to this page are happening daily as there are over 8 years of meetings to sort through and upload: This section has direct copies of excerpts from the minutes of each meeting in which Mr. Hrabovsky spoke. Video of each statement will be uploaded when made available. Some videos are posted to Youtube and others are on the City’s server. The minutes are a quick synopsis of each speakers remarks written by the City Clerk and staff(directly copied here including misspellings of Hrabovsky). It is often best to see and hear video each of these items to get the full impact of each event, so until the editing and posting of videos is complete, the time signature of each comment will be provided to assist the viewer in finding each one. Thank You!

This example below is taken from 2008 a meeting that lasted almost 8 hours long (Chris was there til the end), the rest are in sequential order:

Regular Session April 15, 2008 Time index: 38:59-42:16

Also time index 5:37:30-5:41:30 and 6:28:53-6:32:54 and 7:41:04-7:45:24

ELECTED OFFICIALS: Chris Hrabovsky, 1602 Gulf Beach Boulevard, commented that a the previous Board meeting several Board members felt that they were disappointed with the future financial picture for State funding and were not feeling well represented by State elected officials there. He asked the Board not to do the same to the people in Tarpon Springs when they stand up and speak their minds, not fear being marginalized by the other members.

25. CITY MANAGER INFORMATION: The following residents were against a facilitator and wanted the City to move forward and put the negative publicity to rest: Chris Hbrovsky, 1602 Gulf Beach Boulevard; & 6 others.

26. CITY MANAGER’S VACATION ACCRUAL: Chris Hrabovsky, 1602 Gulf Beach boulevard, asked for clarification on the vacation time and wanted the Board to change a mistake made by a previous Board.

28. PROCESS FOR HIRING CITY MANAGER: Chris Hrabovsky, 1602 Gulf Beach Boulevard, said in his opinion, it was time to look for a new City Manager because he considered things she did in the past to be dishonest and deceitful.

These are in chronological order (2005-2013)

REGULAR SESSION – JANUARY 18, 2005 RESOLUTION 2004-63: SPR 04-16 SITE PLAN REVIEW WALMART There were 62 Opponents: speaker #8. Chris Hranbousky 1602 Gulf Beach Blvd. Tarpon Springs. The meeting adjourned at 6:55 a.m., Wednesday, January 19, 2005.

Special Session – June 27, 2006 Public Comments: Chris Hrabovsky, 1602 Gulf Beach Boulevard, wanted to regain people’s trust and was saddened that government cannot be trusted. Mr. Hrabovsky’s concern was that the proposed Walmart project would be infringing on wetlands and that the Army Corp of Engineers approval was not correct (Exhibit 1). He also felt that if government officials did not take care of land properly, that Wetlands in the City and Country will disappear.

Regular Session – August 15, 2006 Public Comments: Chris Hrabovsky, 1602 Gulf Beach Boulevard, informed the Board the Army Corp of Engineers withdrew Wal-Mart’s permit for property on U.S. Highway 19 north of the Anclote River, and that the Pinellas County Commission wanted to buy the property to use for a park. Mr. Hrabovsky asked that the Commission consider backing the County’s plan to develop parks

Special Session – September 26, 2006 Public Comments: Chris Habrovsky, 1602 Gulf Beach Boulevard; spoke on the following: site plan changes to Walmart; questioned who made the determination if a change was major or minor; what the changes were; impact to wetlands; want all legal options looked at; and that site plan changes should come before the Planning and Zoning Board and the Board of Commissioners.

Regular Session – October 3, 2006 Public Comments: Chris Habrovsky, 1602 Gulf Beach Boulevard, referred the Board to an e-mail that he had sent to each member of the Board stating his point of view regarding Wal-Mart changes to their proposed site plan (Exhibit 1). Mr. Habrovsky thanked the Board for postponing the Technical Review Committee Meeting and asked the Board to consider his point of view.

Regular Session – October 17, 2006 Public Comments: Matt O’Malley, 1764 Painted Bunting, Palm Harbor, Attorney for Jane Wess Law Firm representing Chris Habrovsky, read a letter for the record (Exhibit 1) stating that Mr. Habrovsky felt that Wal-mart’s proposed revisions were major changes to the site plan and needed to be readdressed in a public hearing. Chris Habrovsky, 1602 Gulf Beach Boulevard, apologized for his vocal tone at the Board meeting on October 3, 2006, and said that he was passionate about the environment and protecting Tarpon Springs. Mr. Habrovsky said he hoped that the Board would work with the law to avoid having the issue go to court. The following residents agreed with Mr. Habrovsky’s point of view and asked the Board to consider re-evaluating the Wal-mart project: Burle Inness, 1384 Sail Harbor Circle; Harry Batuyios, 46 Read Street; Carl Wagonfohr, 98 South Highland Avenue; Helen and Bill Gladwin, 420 Doric Court; Mark Washburn, 124 Eastlake Drive, officer and voting member of the Suncoast Sierra Club Group; Joan Dequire, 7200 17th Lane North, Saint Petersburg, representative for Alliance for a Livable Pinellas; Jill Hizuck, Clearwater; Don Kline, 1240 North Jasmine Avenue; Christopher Still, 324 Lemon Street; and Frank Delpercio, 1216 Live Oak Parkway. Each resident addressed the Board stating that the changes being proposed by Walmart were major site plan changes not minor and therefore the request required a public hearing and they felt should not be reviewed the Technical Review Committee. In addition, resident Dory Larson, 1846 Lexington Place stated that she felt that the site plan changes are considered major according to the City’s Land Development Code (Exhibit 2) and passed out three handouts to support her position.

Regular Session – December 19, 2006, 7. CITY MANAGER REPORT:Chris Hrabovsky, 1602 Gulf Beach Boulevard, agreed with Ms. Larson. He felt that one way for Wal-mart to solve the problem was to allow an independent group to measure the wetlands on the site, but Wal-mart had declined his group any access to the site.

19 UPDATE: LOWE’S DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT Chris Hrabovsky, 1602 Gulf Beach Boulevard, expressed concern that everything was stated clearly in the development agreement with Lowe’s especially if the Wal-mart was not built.

7. COMMISSIONER DALACOS’ REQUEST FOR FINAL DETERMINATION OF
WHETHER CHANGES TO THE WAL-MART SITE PLAN ARE MAJOR OR MINOR The following residents cited changing a wetlands acreage calculation by 5.5 acres was a major change in the original site plan proposal and remained convinced that the entire project should be reviewed for a second time by the Board of Commissioners: Dori Larson, 1846 Lexington Place; Chris Habrovsky, 1602 Gulf Beach Boulevard; Mark Washburn, 124 East Lake Drive; Don Cline, 1240 North Jasmine Avenue; and Marty Peters,1702 Heritage Oak Court. In addition to the comments shared by residents, Mr. Habrovsky reminded the Board that the Army Corp of Engineers had denied a permit of the project and that in his opinion the Board should fix the problem.

Special Session – January 30, 2007 Public Comment Chris Hrabovsky, 1602 Gulf Beach Boulevard, asked the Board to state publicly their position regarding the recent slashing and destroying of the homeless peoples’ tents by St. Petersburg Police and Fire Departments and if anyone on the Board agreed with removing the homeless from public property using these methods. Mayor Billiris stated that she sits on a Pinellas County homeless committee and that she could not speak for the City of St. Petersburg or understand how that could happen, but guaranteed that those were not methods the City of Tarpon Springs would use to support or deal with the homeless problem. Mayor Billiris assured Mr. Hrabovsky that the homeless in Tarpon Springs would not be treated in that way.

Regular Session –April 3, 2007 Gopher Tortoise Incident Mary Gerkin, 1345 15th Street North, St. Petersburg, Chair of the Suncoast Sierra Group stated that her group was speaking in opposition to a Wal-mart being built along the Anclote River.She stated that a protected species, the Gopher Tortoises, live on the grounds and provided information on the species. (Exhibit 1); and spoke against the recent activity on the site. Dori Larson, 1846 Lexington Place, stated on Friday March 23, 2007 she witnessed a truck and backhoe on the Wal-mart property at U.S. 19 near the Anclote River, and when she spoke to the persons on the property about those activities, an attorney, representing Wal-mart stated that they were relocating Gopher Tortoises and they had the right to do so. (Exhibit 2) Ms. Larson stated that in her opinion, in addition, to being illegal it was also unethical on the part of the attorney; and she reported the incident to Fish and Wildlife Commission, who would be opening an investigation and asked the Board to contact the Fish and Wildlife Commission telling them that the City of Tarpon Springs does not approve of laws being broken and draft a letter to Walmart letting them know that the City does not approve of their action Chris Hrabrovsky, 1602 Gulf Beach Boulevard, Joan Skaaland, 1522 North Jasmine Avenue,Burl Inness, 1384 Sail Harbor Circle, Shelly Eckerd, 1 Key Capri, Treasure Island, Leonard Smiggy, St. Petersburg, Mark Washburn, 124 East Lake Drive, Harry Batuyious, 46 Read Street, and Mr. Lincoln, Box 5125, Hudson, all spoke in opposition to Wal-mart’s disturbing the tortoises on the property near the Anclote River. The group representing the Friends of the Anclote River, members of the Sierra Club and the Wal-Mart A Reform Now, all thanked the quick response from the City’s representatives, from code enforcement, the police department,Commissioner Dalacos and Commissioner Saenger, all of whom took steps to have the State’s Fish and Wildlife Commission intervene and investigate the moving of eight tortoises on March23, 2007. Several stated that the City should draft a letter to the Florida Bar and send a copy to Bernie McCabe’s office, because in their opinions, the attorneys for Wal-mart were complicit with breaking the law. The group felt that Wal-mart had demonstrated that they do not have respect for wildlife or the authority of governmental agencies, and asked that the Board to be a watchdog for the community and make sure that the Wal-mart project follows the letter of the law.

Regular Session October 2, 2007 E-MAIL: Commissioner Dalacos read an e-mail from Chris Habrovesky regarding the current status of the proposed Wal-mart development on U.S. 19 near the Anclote River addressed to several people on the City staff. He asked staff for any input on the issue of concurrency.

Regular Session December 18, 2007 Chris Hrabrovsky, 1602 Gulf Beach Boulevard, received information that Wal-mart and SWFWMD were meeting on December 19, 2007 and suggested that a City representative attend. He encouraged the Board to get involved in any process that protects the City’s interests.

Regular Session December 4, 2007 Public Comment: Chris Harbrovsky, 1602 Gulf Beach Boulevard, stated that he received information that Wal-mart had missed the deadline to reply to SWFWMD regarding several issues brought forward by the Technical Review Committee, and additionally Wal-mart had not kept promises that they made to Technical Review Committee. He also asked staff to update the Board of Adjustment website.

RESOLUTION OPPOSING BRIGHTHOUSE NETWORKS Chris Harbrovsky, 1602 Gulf Beach Boulevard, agreed with Commissioner Saenger’s suggestion to use web streaming to broadcast local government meetings, and if a business or resident did not have internet access they could use the public library computers. He also suggested that when the national digital broadcasting conversion program was complete that staff could contact PBS about broadcasting possibilities.

14. RESOLUTION 2007-53: DA 06-01; LOWES DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT Chris Harbrovsky, 1602 Gulf Beach Boulevard, said that the traffic signal may or may not
benefit the Sponge Docks but in his opinion, a Lowe’s Store certainly would not benefit the
Docks or the community. He felt the traffic would be a real problem because large retail
establishments always create enormous traffic problems. He also felt that the environment
would also be adversely impacted by the large project. Attorney Armstrong cross examined Mr. Harbrovsky and asked for his credentials and Mr. Harbrovsky stated that he had no credentials or formal training in land use planning, engineering or environmental planning.

REGULAR SESSION – JANUARY 15, 2008 Public Comment: Chris Hrabrovsky, 1602 Gulf Beach Boulevard, questioned how the City’s public e-mails system for elected officials and the City’s Attorney Office worked. He asked: 1.) if private e-mails accounts were used for official business; 2.) how to make a records request for e-mail correspondence; 3.) if the laptops being used during Board meetings were only used for City business. He said he wanted to ensure that the City followed the State’s Sunshine laws. Mayor Billiris clarified that each member of the Board had public e-mails and that when she received emails to her personal computer pertaining to City business she immediately forwards to her secretary, and that Sunshine laws were being followed. She also said that the laptops, Mr.Harbrowsky referenced being used at Board meetings; do not have access to the internet.

5. ATTORNEY’S FEES: Frazer Hubbard Brandt Trask and Yacavone: Invoice 25916. Chris Hrabrovsky, 1602 Gulf Beach Boulevard, commented that item #5 Attorney’s fees may be inaccurate because he had reviewed and sent copies to individuals named in the invoices and one person had already responded stating that one charge was wrong and did not want the City to get overcharged.

11. APPROVE CANVASSING BOARD CONTRACT. Chris Hrabrovsky, 1602 Gulf Beach Boulevard, said that if the Board decided to participate as an observer they would not have true oversight or input over the Canvassing Board and he explained. He said he felt the City would be giving away residents’ voting rights and voice to the County and asked the Board to adopt option #3.

Regular Session February 5, 2008 Public Comment: Chris Hrabrovsky, 1602 Gulf Beach Boulevard, spoke regarding a recent meeting between the City Attorney’s Office and Attorney Theriaque representing Wal-mart. He complained that a citizen who asked to be present was not allowed to attend the meeting, and also believed that Mr. Theriaque was not truthful with the City Attorneys about Wal-mart speaking to the Army Corp of Engineers and explained his point of view. Mr. Hrabrovsky said that since Wal-mart’s attorney did not present information in good faith during the meeting, the Board should not take advice from the City Attorney’s Office on the Wal-mart issue.

17. ORDINANCE 2008-01: CANVASSING BOARD Chris Harbrovsky, 1602 Gulf Beach Boulevard, was concerned about having the County
canvass the City’s election and explained that he had been an observer in the past and that observers were only allowed to view tabulations from another room.

Work Session February 26, 2008 Public Comment: Chris Hrabovsky, 1602 Gulf Beach Boulevard, read an e-mail into the record presenting his point of view regarding Wal-Mart site plan information presented at a recent Board of Adjustment meeting. The Mayor stated the Board received a copy.

Regular Session March 4, 2008 Public Comment: Chris Hrabovsky, 1602 Gulf Beach Boulevard, asked for the outcome of the recent Board discussion about the upcoming election and whether the City would be canvassing its own ballots, and if they were not would a Board member be appointed as an observer. He said in his view the City was giving up its democratic right and asked that the Board safeguard the City’s vote.

10. HISTORIC PRESERVATION BOARD ENFORCEMENT GUIDELINES: Chris Hrabovsky, 1602 Gulf Beach Boulevard, said that he moved to Tarpon Springs from
Historic Soulard MO, downtown St. Louis, where tearing down buildings was not allowed, and felt the Board needed to be careful about setting a precedence of allowing a land owner to let their property deteriorate to the point where it needed to be demolished. He suggested a plaque program to identify historic buildings that would start community pride, as well as, a grant program for worthy projects.

Regular Session April 15, 2008 Time index: 38:59-42:16

Also time index 5:37:30-5:41:30 and 6:28:53-6:32:54 and 7:41:04-7:45:24

ELECTED OFFICIALS: Chris Hrabovsky, 1602 Gulf Beach Boulevard, commented that a the
previous Board meeting several Board members felt that they were disappointed with the future financial picture for State funding and were not feeling well represented by State elected officials there. He asked the Board not to do the same to the people in Tarpon Springs when they stand up and speak their minds, not fear being marginalized by the other members.

26. CITY MANAGER’S VACATION ACCRUAL: Chris Hrabovsky, 1602 Gulf Beach boulevard, asked for clarification on the vacation time and wanted the Board to change a mistake made by a previous Board.

Regular Session April 1, 2008 Time index:1:50:36 City Manager must be replaced.

Regular Session May 6, 2008 Public Comment: Chris Hrabovsky, 1602 Gulf Beach Boulevard, said he did not understand why the vote to pay the additional $11,000 to the former City Manager Posivach was not considered earlier and could have been spent on the fireworks display.

22. DISCUSSION: PROPOSED CHANGES TO SPECIAL EVENTS ORDINANCE: Chris Hrabovsky, 1602 Gulf Beach Boulevard, said Mr. Cruz clarified many of his questions, but he could think of a lot of different gatherings where money would not be collected.

Regular Session May 20, 2008 Public Comment: Chris Hrabovsky, 1602 Gulf Beach Boulevard, announced the Board of Adjustment voted to uphold their previous decision regarding Wal-mart, and he wondered why Wal-mart would proceed with the plan to build.

Special Session May 27, 2008 Public Comment: Chris Hrabovsky, 1602 Gulf Beach Boulevard, thanked Interim City Manager LeCouris for returning his telephone call and Mayor Billiris for responding to his recent e-mail. He also requested that the Board put the Wal-mart issue on a June agenda.

Regular Session July 1, 2008 17a. RESOLUTION 2008-22: DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT-LOWES Chris Hrabovsky, 1602 Gulf Beach Boulevard, opposed the application and stated it was important to recognize that during the Pinellas Planning Council meeting the record reflects that the Council was not in favor of setting a precedent to change land use, and the traffic issues were also mentioned, but somehow the Council all voted to approve the application. He implored the Board to ask Lowe’s to make the project “greener” and explained how he thought that could be accomplished. There were no proponents of the project.

Regular Session July 15, 2008 Public Comment: Chris Hrarbovsky, 1602 Gulf Beach Boulevard, also complained that a recent telephone call was, in his opinion, actually a “push poll” trying to sway public sentiment. He asked the Board to contact Governor Crist to prevent the continued attempt to sway public sentiment to have a store built on property along the Anclote River.

Regular Session August 5, 2008 Public Comments: Chris Hrarbovsky, 1602 Gulf Beach Boulevard, thanked Interim City Manager LeCouris for keeping him informed about the Wal-Mart schedule and said the Department of Environmental Protection was still reviewing Wal-Mart permits. Also, he asked if Attorney Morris had finished the “Big Box” Ordinance which would, in his opinion, protect the future of Tarpon Springs.

August 26, 2008 Regular Session 3. THE MITIGATION BANKING PROCESS:Chris Hrarbovsky, 1602 Gulf Beach Boulevard, said he was pleased that the City was involved in this process, but asked how the Federal Clean Water Act would impact a local plan, and Mr. Hull explained.

September 2, 2008 Regular Session5. RETHINKING WATER MANAGEMENT IN THE 21ST CENTURY: STEPHEN SUAU, PROGRESSIVE WATER RESOURCES Chris Hrarbovsky, 1602 Gulf Beach Boulevard, suggested incentives for using cisterns for lawn irrigation and eventually developing a mandatory program.

15. DISCUSSION OF PROPOSED ORDINANCES: Big Box Chris Hrabovsky, 1602, Gulf Beach Boulevard, congratulated staff on the development of the Ordinance and felt it was worded in a way that was tremendous.

Special Session September 30, 2008, 3. SUPERVISOR OF ELECTIONS DEBORAH CLARK – NEW ELECTION PROCEDURES: Chris Hrabovsky, 1602 Gulf Beach Boulevard, thanked Nancy Whitlock for answering his question prior to the meeting and also asked Ms. Clark. He then asked the additional questions: 1.) if the absentee ballots were counted in advance of the election; 2.) if both political parties were allowed to monitor the absentee ballot system; and 3.) how the ballots were protected. Ms. Clark answered the questions and suggested that any resident who was interested in the process and procedures could visit the elections office.

5. PROPOSED ORDINANCE ON BIG BOX RETAIL ESTABLISHIMENTS: Chris Hrabovsky, 1602 Gulf Beach Boulevard, applauded Assistant City Attorney Morris and Renea Vincent, Planning and Zoning Director, for drafting a document that would allow the City’s economic growth while protecting the City’s small town charm.

6. PROPOSED SIGN ORDINANCE: Chris Hrabovsky, 1602 Gulf Beach Boulevard, thanked Attorney Morris for, in his opinion, a well developed ordinance which he felt would help the entire community and not hurt any of the businesses within the City limits. He also asked what provisions were in the ordinance regarding “special” vehicles used for advertising during a temporary event, and Ms. Vincent explained the permit process for special events applied to the circumstance presented.

16. COMMISSION GOALS AND OBJECTIVES FOR INTERIM CITY MANAGER: Chris Hrabovsky, 1602 Gulf Beach Boulevard, thanked Interim City Manager LeCouris for his open communication with the public.

Regular Session October 21, 2008, 1. WAL-MARK AMENDMENT TO APPROVED SITE PLAN:a. CERTIFICATE OF CONCURRENCY The following Tarpon Springs residents stated in their opinions felt that the Wal-Mart Certificate of Concurrency, had expired: Chris Harbovsky, 1602 Gulf Beach Boulevard; & 12 others

Regular Session December 16, 2008 Public Comment: Chris Hrabovsky, 1602 Gulf Beach Boulevard, spoke about his concern with a twenty-five percent rate increase by Progress Energy planned in January 2009 which in his opinion is a private corporation unfairly mandating funding of two nuclear power plants. Additionally, he explained he spoke to Representative Nehr seven months ago and recently spoke to Senator Fasano about his concerns and was asking the Board of Commissioners to intervene on behalf of City residents and hold fourteen percent of the approved increase in escrow while fighting to have the funds redirected and used to convert local homes to alternative energy sources.

1. JESSIE BURKE DAY: Chris Hrabovsky, 1602 Gulf Beach Boulevard, thanked Ms. Burke for being an inspiration.

8. APPROVE 2009 LEGISLATIVE PACKAGE. Chris Hrabovsky, 1602 Gulf Beach Boulevard, thanked the Board for their support of the repeal of State Bill 2006 and further detailed the “green” energy program he would like to see developed for Tarpon Springs.

13. LEGAL ADVERTISING OF FORMAL BIDS AND PROPOSALS Chris Hrabovsky, 1602 Gulf Beach Boulevard, suggested using the City’s occupational license database to inform local businesses of bid opportunities, as well as, using free internet advertising sources. He also noted that if the City was interested in pursuing Federal funds for a “green” energy initiative that local companies would have to be employed.

16. ORDINANCE PROTECTION OF EAGLES The following residents asked the Board to consider an effective Bald Eagle Ordinance: Berlis Ennis, 1384 Sail Harbor Circle; Chris Hrabovsky, 1602 Gulf Beach Boulevard; and Barbara Walker, 3019 Bradford Circle, Palm Harbor, who presented a map of Florida’s projected land use by 2060 (Exhibit 2).

Regular Session January 13, 2009 Chris Hrabovsky, 1602 Gulf Beach Boulevard, outlined his ideas for a program to convert homes and businesses to solar and alternative energy sources, due to the rising power cost. He also suggested that the City move forward with stringent “green codes”.

Regular Session January 27, 2009 Chris Hrabovsky, 1602 Gulf Beach Boulevard, attended the Presidential inauguration on January 22, 2009 and was inspired. He suggested that the City think about creating a municipal utility company and outlined his ideas for a program to convert homes and businesses to solar and alternative energy sources using a cost recovery program. Mr. Hrabovsky stated that the City of Gainesville was a good example for the City to follow and pointed out that thirty three municipalities in Florida had formed utility companies.

Regular Session March 17, 2009, 12. SELECT RENAISSANCE PLANNING GROUP Chris Hrabovsky, 1602 Gulf Beach Boulevard, asked if this was the type of thing that would go in front of the Budget Advisory Committee and City Manager LeCouris responded, yes.

Regular Session August 18, 2009 Chris Hrabovsky, 1602 Gulf Beach Boulevard, announced that Don Kleine, long time advocate for protecting the Anclote River and other wildlife habitats in the Tarpon Springs area passed away. Mr. Hrabrovsky also talked about Pasco County’s Board of Commissioners intention to change their Comprehensive Plan which he felt would further destroy the environment and he asked the Board to send a strong message to Pasco County opposing the changes. He asked everyone to read Paving Paradise and the Future of Florida Wetlands, by Craig Pitman and Matthew Waite, for further insight into reversing environmental disasters.

Work Session August 25, 2009

4. DISCUSSION: PROPOSED RESOLUTION CONCERNING PASCO COUNTY:
HARVEY/MADISON Chris Hrabovsky, 1602 Gulf Beach Boulevard, thanked the Board for writing a strongly worded letter of objection to Pasco County and urged the Board to pass a Resolution opposing the development of the area; and if necessary take legal action.

16. RESOLUTION 2009-08: SOLAR ENERGY Chris Hrabovsky, 1602 Gulf Beach Boulevard, said there were many ways for the City to move forward on a solar energy program and suggested the Board look at the “Berkley” model to support solar residential projects.

Special Session March 31, 2009TAMPA BAY REGIONAL PLANNING COUNCIL SWFWMD Chris Hrabovsky, 1602 Gulf Beach Boulevard, thanked Mr. Mazur and Mr. Miller and suggested TBRPC look at the “Berkley” model to fund alternative energy projects which would improve the regions quality of life and create new jobs.

Regular Session May 19, 2009 BALD EAGLE PROTECTION: Chris Hrabovsky, 1602 Gulf Beach Boulevard, asked the Board to enact zoning that would protect the Bald Eagle habitat.

Work Session May 26, 2009, 4. DISCUSSION OF PROCESS FOR DOCKS: Chris Hrabovsky, 1602 Gulf Beach Boulevard, said he felt there was a communication problem and listed several times he felt that there was a communication problem between the City and residents and felt it was not adequate. He suggested ways to inform the public.

Regular Session June 16, 2009, 12. MORATORIUM ON PROHIBITION OF BACKYARD CHICKENS: Chris Hrabovsky, 1602 Gulf Beach Boulevard, said in his opinion, the Mayor’s opinions were inconsistent and explained. He supported allowing chickens as pets on residential property.

Special Session July 28, 2009 6. DISCUSSION: BALD EAGLE PROTECTION ORDINANCE: Chris Hrabovsky, 1602 Gulf Beach Boulevard, disagreed with City Attorney’s opinion and felt that the boldest protection should be developed. He also felt that home rule would allow the City to have stricter rules to protect the eagle. He also suggested that everyone read Paving Paradise, by Craig Pittman to understand the relationship between various area governments.

Regular Session September 15, 2009, 18. PRESENTATION BY THE CHARTER REVISION COMMISSION:Chris Hrabovsky, 1602 Gulf Beach Boulevard, said although it might by too late for this Charter Revision and if it was he hoped his recommendation would be considered when the Commission meets again in five years. Mr. Hrabovsky suggested the Charter contain the City’s right to re-negotiate its franchise agreement every 5 to 10 years rather than the existing 30 year agreement in place and the agreements would require a referendum vote.

19a,ELECTION CYCLE ALTERNATIVES/SAVINGS Chris Hrabovsky, 1602 Gulf Beach Boulevard, did not think the State would be reducing election costs but was not sure if it would be preferable to change the cycle. He thought that although it should be decided by the voters, he would probably vote against it since he was concerned with the change to a four year term.

20. ORDINANCE 2009-12: FORMULA BASED RETAIL ORDINANCE Chris Hrabovsky, 1602 Gulf Beach Boulevard, agreed with leaving page 2, number 5 and number 6 in the ordinance.

Regular Session May 4, 2010 OFFSHORE OIL LEAK: Chris Hrabovsky, 1602 Gulf Beach Boulevard, expressed concern that oil would soon contaminate water, wildlife and beaches along the Tarpon Springs shoreline. He asked the City to be proactive and seek reimbursement for damages to help area fisherman and sponge divers.
PACE LEGISLATION: Chris Hrabovsky, 1602 Gulf Beach Boulevard, asked the Board to
consider arranging for a low cost loan/bond program recently developed by the state legislature to fund residential solar energy projects. He hoped the City supported investing in alternative energy sources and said the City of St. Petersburg recently established a bond program.

4. BUDGET ADVISORY COMMITTEE REPORT: Chris Hrabovsky, 1602 Gulf Beach Boulevard, said the City’s electric bills and franchise fees should be carefully analyzed and staff should negotiate the best possible agreement with Progress Energy. He also suggested that the City investigate and use solar energy where possible.

13. RESOLUTION 2010-22: OPPOSING AMENDMENT 4 TO THE FL CONSTITUTION Chris Hrarbovsky, 1602 Gulf Beach Boulevard, discussed, in his opinion, Amendment 4 supported home town democracy and if the Board approved Resolution 2010-22 he and others would personally sue the City of Tarpon Springs for hampering home town democracy.

Work Session May 25, 2010 AMENDMENT 4: Chris Hrarbovsky, 1602 Gulf Beach Boulevard, spoke to George Neman, who represented the Florida Hometown Democracy group, 866-799-5113 and was informed that a debate would be held on Amendment 4 on Wednesday May 26, 2010 from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at St Petersburg College, Clearwater Campus. Mr. Hrarbovsky recently learned there would be no cost to local government if proposed State Amendment 4 passed, and he supported passage. Anyone who wanted additional information on the amendment should visit the website: floridahometowndemocracy.com.

2. ANTICIPATED CHANGES IN WATER QUALITY REGULARTIONS: Chris Hrarbovsky, 1602 Gulf Beach Boulevard, thanked the Board and staff for being proactive and said as a resident he welcomed a fertilizer ordinance and any other protection of the state’s water quality. He also asked the City to be proactive and help local residents and fishermen with the impact from the Gulf oil spill; he outlined a plan to protect the Tarpon Springs shoreline and said it should be paid for by BP and he would assist with a law suit if necessary.

Special Session June 29, 2010 1. RATIFICATION OF APPOINTMENT OF ROBERT KOCHEN AS POLICE CHIEF The following members of the public supported Acting Chief Robert Kochen appointment as Police Chief: Anita Protos, 901 Bayshore Drive; Jim Lemonidis, 18 Mill Street; Tim Keffalas, 205 Leafwood; Peter Dalacos, 514 Ashland Avenue; and Chris Hrabovsky, 1602 Gulf Beach Boulevard. Mr. Keffalas presented Chief Kochen a license plate with a picture of Tarpon Springs to use on his official police vehicle.

1. CEMETERY CONCEPT PLAN FOR LAWN CRYPT EXPANSION. Chris Hrabovsky, 1602 Gulf Beach Boulevard, asked if a suitable ground cover could be used in to allow the raised crosses in the lawn crypt area for less maintenance. Mr. Smith said staff would look in to the possibilities.

2. CLEAN-UP PROCESS FOR OIL SPILLThe following members of the public asked the Board to continue to be proactive in response to the spill and do everything possible to protect the City’s interest including placing bids now for hazardous material training and evaluating lost tax revenue: Chris Hrabovsky, 1602 Gulf Beach Boulevard; & 5 others

5. SUSTAINABLE TARPON SPRINGS Chris Hrabovsky, 1602 Gulf Beach Boulevard, supported allowing raising chickens in residential areas provided rules were setup with permit fees of $5.00 dollars. He also discussed: PACE legislation and suggested municipal bonds for solar panels and mandating rain water cisterns for irrigation.

Regular Session August 17, 2010, 20. DISCUSSION: RFP FOR CITY ATTORNEY SERVICES: Chris Hrabovsky, 1602 Gulf Beach Boulevard, felt often expensive did not equal “good” and his main concern was the current firm’s loyalties if the City had a problem with another City. He preferred to have an attorney who lived in the City.

Regular Session September 7, 2010, 19. RFP/RFQ FOR CITY ATTORNEY SERVICES: Chris Hrarbovsky, 1602 Gulf Beach Boulevard, was in favor of an RFP because, in his opinion, it would allow for better negotiations if the current contracted firm was retained and said the City should ask Frazer Hubbard Brandt Trask and Yacavone for a better billing system.

Regular Session September 21, 2010 WETLAND PRESERVATION :
Chris Hrabovsky, 1602 Gulf Beach Boulevard, felt elected official had an obligation to be fully informed before voting on issues and was proud of the City and the Board when they voted to postpone an item in order to research further. However, recently the Pinellas Planning Council did not postpone an item on wetland’s preservation, and voted, in his opinion, to destroy wetlands. He was concerned Mayor Archie, who serves as a member of this committee, could have suggested postponing the vote to study further. AMENDMENT 4:
Chris Hrabovsky, 1602 Gulf Beach Boulevard, asked that Amendment 4, on the November ballot, be studied and reviewed by all.

Special Session March 29, 2011

PUBLIC COMMENTS: Chris Hrarbovsky, 1602 Gulf Beach Boulevard, stated since the earthquake and tsunami in Japan that compromised the safety of their nuclear energy plants, and asked if the City had or if not, City should develop an emergency evacuation plan in case the Crystal River Nuclear plant was ever compromised. Mr. Hrarbovsky also discussed ways to get rid of nuclear power and said, in his opinion, solar and wind power were much safer alternatives to solve the energy needs in Florida.

Regular session June 7, 2011

Alternative Water Supply update. PUBLIC COMMENTS: Chris Hrarbovsky, 1602 Gulf Beach Boulevard, said he originally supported the project but the reason the waterplant was needed was because wetlands were not protected, and in his opinion, SWFWMD was responsible issuing too many permits throughout their region.

ORDINANCE 2011-07 PUBLIC COMMENTS: Chris Hrarbovsky, 1602 Gulf Beach Boulevard, agreed with Mr. Dalacos concerns and said an example would be the effect on boat owners at boat launches and their properties.

Regular session July 19, 2011

HOWARD PARK: Chris Hrabovsky 1602 Gulf Beach Boulevard, thanked Vice Mayor Alahouzos for bringing the item forward and supported the City taking back the park. He was opposed to Pinellas County collecting fees at this park and using the proceeds to support other projects.

Regular session April 17, 2012

Chris Hrabovsky 1602 Gulf Beach Boulevard, mourned the loss of Jesse Burke and said Mrs. Burke would be missed for her work protecting democracy and speaking out on local issues.[EBLJczggv-w?t=9m46

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Regular Session May 21, 2013

BOARD OF ADJUSTMENTS:
Chris Habrovsky, 1602 Gulf Beach Boulevard, stated that he was surprised to see that neither
Attorney Armstrong nor City Attorney Yacavone closely read Ordinance 132 regarding waivers.
Mr. Dalacos, Planning and Zoning Member pointed out that the Ordinance says “may v. shall”.
He thought this would be addressed as both Attorneys said this was unconstitutional. It
appeared to him as staff was taking out the Planning and Zoning Board which was an important
step from the process; and felt there should be checks and balances. He urged the Board to
read the Charter to make sure there are not parts that are unconstitutional.

4. HEALTH CARE – WELLNESS CENTER CLINIC
Christ Harbrovsky, 1602 Gulf Beach Boulevard, wandered why the city did not go out for RFP.
He is in favor of the wellness center, but wants to be sure the city was following the rules

8. PACE UPDATE

Chris Habrovsky, 1602 Gulf Beach Boulevard, felt a great step forward by the city. He felt city projects could be done on a smaller scale one at a time, and that the city could recover money due that could be used to fund PACE

Special Session June 5, 2013

ENTERING INTO AGREEMENT FOR EMPLOYEE WELLNESS CLINIC
WITH THE FLORIDA MUNICIPAL INSURANCE TRUST

Chris Harbrovsky, 1602 Gulf Beach Boulevard, spoke in favor of the clinic and savings;
however, wants to be sure procedural process was followed and wanted clarity on what was
exempt from the bid process.

Regular Session July 2, 2013

DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION:
Chris Hrabovsky, 1602 Gulf Beach Boulevard, advised the Board if they saw the recent article by Craig Pittman in the St. Petersburg Times about DEP regarding how they recently fired Attorneys for doing their job in enforcing the law. He stated that if the City does not protect what they have, the government would and urged the Board to look at projects more carefully.

12. ORDINANCE 2013-14: APPLICATION 13-35; BAYSHORE HEIGHTS;
REZONING APPLICATION FOR 12.3 ACRES NORTH OF LOQUAT DRIVE
AND EAST OF W. BAYSHORE DRIVE FROM R-100 TO R-70A (2ND Reading)
(Quasi-Judicial)
OPPONENTS: The following were opponents of this application and spoke on flooding, wildlife, pedestrian safety, and traffic congestion concerns: Anita Protos, 901 Bayshore Drive; Paul Lewis, 820 Bayshore Drive (Exhibit 3); Michelle Toole, 814 Eunice Drive; Richard Dunken, 812 Eunice Drive; Ellen Dunken, 812 Eunice Drive; Paul Robinson, 948 Bayshore Drive; Lucyanne Robinson, 948 Bayshore Drive; Rose English, 757 Bayshore Drive; Lee Nicholas, 757 Bayshore Drive; Pamela Predmore, 851 Bayshore Drive; Joanne Episcopo, 804 Lucille Drive; William Joyce, 656 Bayshore Drive; Joe Dubey, 816 Bayshore Drive; Sharon Brickett, 813 Eunice Drive; Dwane Johansen, 928 Bayshore Drive; David Hoffman, 936 Bayshore Drive; Peter Dalacos, 514 Ashland Avenue; Chris Hrabovsky, 1602 Gulf Beach Bloulevard; and Jason Harger, 734 Loquat Drive.

13. ORDINANCE 2013-17: URBAN CHICKENS (1ST Reading)

The following spoke in favor of urban chickens: Chris Hrabovsky, 16202 Gulf Beach Boulevard; Anita Protos, 901 Bayshore Drive, Tommy Frain, 624 Pent Street; Joe Reis, 1541 Riverside Drive; Denise Manino, 47 E. Cypress Street, Peter Dalacos, 514 Ashland Avenue.

15. BOARD OF ADJUSTMENTS:

Chris Hrabovsky, 1602 Gulf Beach Boulevard, watched Board of Adjustment Meeting in question and felt that Mr. Tallarino brought up some excellent points and stated that Mr. Tallarino’s back was against the wall that caused him to get defensive.

Regular Session July 16, 2013

1. PUBLIC ART COMMITTEE ANNUAL PLAN FOR 2013-2014

Chris Hrabovsky, 1602 Gulf Beach Boulevard, offered the suggestion to partner with the County for shade on the Pinellas Trail such as, a tunnel of plants or trees to ride through. He also suggested possible ornate water fountains.

11. REQUEST FOR SUBORDINATION – 1223 E. LIME STREET

Chris Hrabovsky, 1602 Gulf Beach Boulevard, felt that the Board should avoid this in order to help the property owner and not jeopardize the property owner getting re-financed.

13. ORDINANCE 2013-17: URBAN CHICKENS (2nd Reading)

The following spoke in favor of urban chickens: Denise Manino, 470 E Cypress Street; George Chambers, 1123 Sunset Ridge Lane; and Chris Hrabovsky, 1602 Gulf Beach Boulevard.

17. DISCUSSION: HIGH SCHOOL SUMMER EMPLOYMENT PROGRAM

Chris Hrabovsky, 1602 Gulf Beach Boulevard, thanked Commissioner Tarapani for this idea and suggested partnering with USF and that there was funding was available through the state

Budget Work Session July 30, 2013

PUBLIC COMMENTS:
Chris Hrabovsky, 1602 Gulf Beach Boulevard, spoke about how the subordination issue was handled, and felt the family was owed an apology and that they were not notified of this meeting. Mr. Hrabovsky thanked Mr. LeCouris for taking action the next day. He asked that this be discussed on a future agenda so a policy can be created to make sure that every citizen that on the agenda was notified.

Board of Commissioners July 16, 2013
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