SUBJECT/RECOMMENDATION:
Title
Approve the budget increase of $115,000 and one full time equivalent position (FTE) for the addition of a new Assistant Director position in the General Fund CRA Administration Department. (consent)
Body
SUMMARY:
The purpose of this item is to request approval for a new position, Assistant Director Community Redevelopment Agency, and associated costs. The funding for this position was approved in September 2021 at the Community Redevelopment Agency meeting as part of the CRA’s annual budget and Interlocal agreement with the City. The CRA is responsible for facilitating the revitalization of downtown Clearwater. The current implementation strategy calls for the development of several new grant programs, partnerships with community organizations, contracts with multiple media providers and redevelopment of CRA/City owned property. This is highly complex and highly visible work that requires an experienced practitioner in the field of communications and community development. Staff anticipates the creation of a new CRA that would be administered by this department in the next year. To successfully implement the CRA’s revitalization goals and accommodate a new CRA, a new position is needed. Finally, considering the ongoing pandemic, providing a back up to the Director position will ensure that CRA operations can be maintained when the Director is unable to work. If approved, the CRA anticipate hiring no later than January 2022.
APPROPRIATION CODE AND AMOUNT:
A first quarter budget amendment will increase salaries in the CRA Administration cost code 0109212-510100, full time salaries, by $115,000. Amendments will also include an offsetting increase to transfer-in revenues from the CRA to fund this expenditure.