SUBJECT/RECOMMENDATION:
Title
Amend Clearwater Code of Ordinances, Chapter 33, Waterways and Vessels, by adding Section 33.122, establishing the Stevenson Creek Manatee Protection Zone, and pass Ordinance 9931-26 on first reading.
Body
SUMMARY:
Stevenson Creek is a shallow, tidal estuarine waterway that connects to Clearwater Harbor and provides habitat regularly utilized by the Florida manatee (Trichechus manatus latirostris). Over the past several years, the City has worked collaboratively with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), the Stevenson Creek Advocacy Group, and other stakeholders to evaluate the feasibility of establishing a local manatee protection zone within the creek. Supporting documentation includes habitat assessments, citizen-science observations, navigation evaluations, and other relevant scientific and observational data documenting the regular use of Stevenson Creek by adult manatees and calves.
Section 379.2431(2)(p), Florida Statutes, authorizes local governments to regulate vessel speeds for the protection of manatees where the best available scientific information demonstrates that manatees inhabit an area on a regular basis. The proposed ordinance establishes a Year-Round Slow Speed Minimum Wake Manatee Protection Zone within Stevenson Creek, extending from the mouth of the creek at Clearwater Harbor to the eastern limits identified in Exhibit A, including the northern tributary to Overbrook Avenue. The proposed zone boundaries are illustrated on the accompanying map and defined by geographic coordinates within the ordinance.
Approval of this ordinance authorizes the City to formally request review by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. In accordance with state law, the proposed manatee protection zone will not become effective until it has received all required approvals from FWC, all necessary permits have been obtained, and the required regulatory markers have been installed.
The proposed ordinance is intended to enhance the protection of manatees while promoting safe and responsible boating practices within Stevenson Creek. The ordinance is not intended to restrict lawful navigation or appropriate use of the waterway, but rather to provide additional protection within an area where documented manatee activity and environmental conditions support a slow speed minimum wake designation.
STRATEGIC PRIORITY:
High Performing Government: 1.2 Maintain public infrastructure, mobility systems, natural lands, environmental resources, and historic features through systematic management efforts.
Community Well-Being: 3.1 Support neighborhood identity through services and programs that empower community pride and belonging.
Community Well-Being: 3.2 Preserve community livability through responsible development standards, proactive code compliance, and targeted revitalization.
Community Well-Being: 3.4 Inspire citizen participation through civic engagement and volunteerism to build strong, inclusive, and engaged communities.
