Marina's Future In Question

In 1925, the state gave the local government land in Clearwater Bay to build a causeway to Clearwater Beach, to be forever used for public purposes like parks and recreation. Any other use would require that it be returned to the state.

The city wants to remove the requirement so it can someday redevelop the Clearwater Municipal Marina that sits on the land, adding more parking and shops.

Some activists are wary of the idea, fearing a developer could come along and build a large hotel on the property. The homeowners associations of Clearwater Beach, Island Estates and Sand Key are also opposed to the idea.

Both sides say they want to preserve public access to the waterfront.

The city has asked Representative Jim Frishe to help pass a law during the upcoming legislative session eliminating the "reverter clause". Frishe will hold a public hearing beginning at 6 p.m. Monday at Clearwater's City Hall. Frishe said that public access to the waterfront needs to be protected, but that the marina will need to be redesigned at some point.

Public hearing:
6-8 p.m. Monday
Clearwater City Hall,
112 S Osceola Ave

Super Boat Weekend A Huge Success

Last weekend's Super Boat International Offshore Race is considered to be a success by it's organisers and the Chamber of Commerce and the event is expected to return again next October.

The 3 day festival had good turnout, especially on Sunday when spectators watched the race from both land and sea. About 20,000 people viewed the race offshore from anchored boats. Another estimated 7,000 people watched from the beach, while others observed from hotels and restaurants.