First Meeting Held in Belleair Beach's New Community Centerby Leo CoughlinBELLEAIR BEACH - After a long discussion, the City Council settled on a fee schedule for the renting of public space in the new Community Center/City Hall at Monday night's meeting. This was the highlight of a meeting that took care of several housekeeping items, joined other beach communities in opposing any offshore drilling in the Gulf of Mexico, and recognized Peter Cavalli. This was the first council meeting in the new building and the council focused on using the building as an income generator. City Manager Nancy Gonzalez reported on a survey of other facilities in the area as a basis for the council determining fees to charge for renting the new building for wedding receptions, reunions and all kinds of parties. As well as offering a large room there is a veranda on the east side of the building with a view of the bridge and the Intracoastal Waterway. The fee schedule calls for a charge to non-residents of $1,500 for six hours with $175 for each additional hour. Residents will pay $900 an hour and $100 for each additional hour. Because the room can be divided, if the smaller space is used the fees are $800 for six hours for non-residents and $175 for extra hours while residents will pay $500 and $100. Cavalli, who is a "man for all seasons" in the city administration, was recognized for his completion with a grade of 96 to be certified as a stormwater operator. He handles many assignments in the city, including all information technology, the web site, etc. He has a master's degree in public administration and a whole flock of certifications. "It would take two people to replace Peter if we were ever so unfortunate to lose him," one observer said. The council approved a measure providing for dealing with unkempt properties that have been abandoned or are vacant through foreclosure proceedings. David Healey, director of the Pinellas Planning Council, was on hand to report that the city was in full synchronization with the county on all matters of mutual interest in comprehensive plans. Along with that, the city approved authorization for the city manager to renew the agreement for planning services with the PPC. Three seats are coming up for the March 9 municipal election. Two year terms are ending for Richard Crowl, David Dumville and Mitch Krach. Also announced were holiday closing dates - December 24 and 25 and at noon on December 31 and January 1.
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