|
Fall 2024
Hurricanes Helene and Milton
Our hearts go out to everyone impacted by hurricanes Helene and Milton. The damage caused by these storms has been felt deeply across our community, and we hope that recovery efforts are swift and effective for all our residents.
For those in need of assistance or information, please visit Latest Storm Information for city-specific resources and disaster.pinellas.gov for countywide recovery information. Let’s continue to support one another as we build a stronger, more resilient Clearwater.
Staff Update
The sustainability team is growing. This summer, we had the pleasure of having Caitlin Allgoever as our intern. She has headed back to Florida State University to finish her master’s degree, and we have welcomed our new intern, Chloe Tucker, from University of South Florida.
The environmental team has merged with the city sustainability team. We would like to welcome Environmental Specialists Sarah Kessler and Joe DeCicco and Environmental Code Enforcement Inspector, Jarvis Sheeler. We are excited to have their expertise to help make Clearwater more sustainable, resilient and safe for all.
|
|
 Big Cleanup Clearwater
 |
|
Sign up for the 2024 Big Cleanup Clearwater. This year’s event will be Nov. 8-16. Site registration is now open.
Don’t forget, the city and Keep Pinellas Beautiful host monthly cleanups on Clearwater Beach on the second Friday of the month.
|
|
|
Florida Climate Week Proclamation
At the Oct. 3 City Council meeting, Mayor Rector proclaimed Oct. 7-15 as Climate Week in the city of Clearwater. Clearwater is committed to fostering a vibrant, resilient and sustainable community through proactive environmental stewardship, economic innovation as well as public health and social initiatives.
|
Back-to-School Sustainability Campaign
The city ran an educational campaign about making sustainable choices for back-to-school time. Some suggestions included reusing last year’s book bag or buying sustainably-made school supplies, buying second-hand clothing, reusing items to pack lunches and choosing a climate-friendly commuting option.
|
|
|
2024 Pinellas Solar Co-op
The 2024 Pinellas Solar Co-op organized by Solar United Neighbors closed July 1, exceeding its goal with 165 members.
There are 16 completed projects generating clean, powerful savings, three of which are in Clearwater. Another 92 members are still in the process of getting solar energy, with 25 of those in Clearwater.
|
|
|
Vulnerability Assessment Presentation
The city of Clearwater and its consultants concluded the vulnerability assessment study. A presentation was given about the study at the Clearwater City Council Work Session on Monday, Sept. 16.
This study created a virtual twin of Clearwater to assess potential environmental and resilience risks that the city may face in the coming years.
|
|
|
Employee Wellness Fair
 |
|
The sustainability team hosted a booth at the city of Clearwater’s annual Employee Wellness Fair on Sept. 20. Our theme for this year was "Sustainability and Financial Health." |
|
|
Crest Lake Park Tree Preservation and Plantings
The Clearwater Parks & Recreation department is giving two special Sand Live Oaks (Quercus geminata) a special maintenance treatment at Crest Lake Park.
Our certified city arborists noticed the nearly 150-year-old trees were lacking in new growth, due to compacted soil preventing the roots from accessing oxygen and releasing carbon dioxide. Staff are completing a gradual process of air spading, which loosens the topsoil and adds nutrient rich soil and water. Then they will install irrigation and a decorative protective fence to prevent further compaction.
Finally, they will install a bronze plaque to provide public education on the history of these unique trees and Clearwater’s long-standing commitment to tree protection and preservation.
In September, city staff planted 25 trees to contribute to a diverse urban forestry. Special thanks to staff including Craig Wilson and Matt Anderson for their hard work.
|
|
|
 Sustainability + Financial Health: Personal Consumption
Reduce personal consumption by choosing local, high-quality, sustainable businesses for your needs. This not only supports your community but also fosters long-term savings through durable products and less waste.
Engaging with local enterprises strengthens community relations and promotes a healthier environment. You can also consider shopping at thrift and consignment shops and participating in local clothing exchanges. Do your part to to contribute to a greener future and a more connected Clearwater community.
|
|
|
 Municipal Energy Program and Savings
The municipal energy savings program has entered its third year. Cenergistic presented the first 26 months of program performance at City Council Work Session on Aug. 12. To summarize, the energy-savings program has yielded a 10 percent reduction in energy use, a total cost avoidance of $1,827,817 or a cost savings of $723,076, taking into account the program costs.
The third year is going steadily with an 11 percent average monthly reduction in electricity use, 32 percent reduction in natural gas use, and three percent reduction in water and irrigation use, compared to the baseline year.
|
|
|
CONTACT THE SUSTAINABILITY TEAM
If you have questions about the city's sustainability or environmental programs, email our sustainability team: Sustainability Specialist Melody (left) Sustainability Manager Cassie Cordova (right) [Also pictured, former summer Sustainability Intern Caitlin Allgoever (center)]. |
|
 |
|
|
|
|
