SUBJECT/RECOMMENDATION:
Title
Approve the Fourth Renewed and Restated Clearwater Beach Route Funding Agreement between Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) and the City of Clearwater for Jolley Trolley service in an amount not to exceed $689,572.57 and authorize the appropriate officials to execute same. (consent)
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SUMMARY:
On September 20, 2016, the City entered into the Clearwater Beach Route Funding Agreement for the Jolley Trolley with PSTA, subsequently amended and renewed on October 1, 2017, and October 1, 2019, extending the agreement and funding of the Jolley Trolley beach route through end of fiscal year 2026.
The City would like to extend this funding agreement to continue the Jolley Trolley beach route for fiscal years 2027 and 2028, expiring September 30, 2028. The amount for fiscal year 2027 is $339,690.92, a 3% increase in amount paid in fiscal year 2026. The amount for fiscal year 2028 is $349,881.65, a 3% increase in amount proposed for fiscal year 2027. The route provides Jolley Trolley service from downtown Clearwater to Island Estates, Clearwater Beach north to Kipling Plaza, and South Beach to Bay Park in Sand Key.
The agreement includes a contingency provision addressing the potential fiscal impact of the November 2026 homestead exemption ballot measure. The City’s ability to fund the agreement for fiscal years 2027 and 2028 is contingent upon the outcome of the ballot measure and its impact on local government revenues. Following the election, and no later than December 1, 2026, the City and PSTA will meet in good faith to review any fiscal impacts and related city budget amendments affecting the agreement. Based on available funding, the parties may mutually agree in writing to amend the term or funding or terminate the agreement. Any reduction in funding or termination requires at least 120 days advance written notice to PSTA to allow for termination of the Jolley Trolley Agreement in accordance with its terms.
APPROPRIATION CODE AND AMOUNT:
Funding for the first year of this agreement is available in Public Works - Parking cost code 4351333-581000, Payment to Agencies, in the amount of $339,690.92. Future year funding will be requested as part of the annual budget process. The Parking division of Public Works is funded by the Parking Fund, an enterprise fund of the City.
STRATEGIC PRIORITY:
4.4 Develop accessible and active transportation networks that enhance pedestrian safety and reduce citywide greenhouse gas emissions.
