SUBJECT/RECOMMENDATION:
Title
Ratify and confirm a reimbursement payment to the Philadelphia Phillies in the amount of $2,635,560.96 for costs associated with repairs to damage caused by Hurricane Milton at BayCare Ballpark. (consent)
Body
SUMMARY:
Between October 9-10, 2024, the BayCare Ballpark sustained damage as a result of Hurricane Milton.
On December 19, 2024, City Council approved costs totaling $1,958,684.86 for the initial mitigation efforts to protect the facility and prevent further damage. This work included cleaning, debris and water removal, removal of carpet, flooring, and drywall up to 24 inches above the water line, as well as dehumidification and sanitization to mitigate mold growth.
Additionally, City Council approved commencement of restoration work to meet the Phillies’ Spring Training Opening Day, and on July 7, 2025, approved initial restoration costs totaling $666,256.80 for work performed by Servpro.
Due to the time constraints and the need to expedite restoration repairs ahead of Spring Training, the Phillies were also authorized to utilize Creative Contractors and various sub-contractors to complete the remaining restoration work. The Phillies local management team, Creative Contractors, Parks & Recreation staff, and the city’s insurance adjuster coordinated all restoration efforts and cost estimates to ensure that the facility was operational by Opening Day. Additional work to the Player Development Areas and Hydro Training Rooms was required to fully restore the facility. Staff reviewed the expenses submitted by the Phillies and confirmed the items presented for reimbursement are repair and remediation expenses related to storm damage and does not include improvements unrelated to storm damage.
The total costs incurred by the Phillies and accepted by insurance for this work amount to $2,635,560.96. To date, BayCare Ballpark adjusted Gross Loss value is $5,324,019. After applying the deductible of $2,186,500.00, the actual received property insurance reimbursement is $3,137,519.
The City has received $500,000.00 from the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) for building damages, reducing the city’s deductible to $1,686,500.00. The City has applied to FEMA for reimbursement of the remaining deductible amount.
The City has received reimbursement from its property insurance carriers for all eligible costs incurred, less than the applicable deductible.
APPROPRIATION CODE AND AMOUNT:
This purchase will be coded to a special program code 1817525-546300-D2501, disaster response - Hurricane Milton
USE OF RESERVE FUNDS:
N/A
STRATEGIC PRIORITY:
Approval of the purchase order supports several Strategic Plan Objectives, including:
• 1.2: Maintain public infrastructure, mobility systems, natural lands, environmental resources, and historic features through systematic management efforts.
• 2.3: Promote Clearwater as a premier destination for entertainment, cultural experiences, tourism, and national sporting events.
• 3.2: Preserve community livability through responsible development standards, proactive code compliance, and targeted revitalization.
