Clearwater's Future: Commissioners Eye Land Sale

0:00Pinellas County commissioners are eyeing a big move with downtown Clearwaterland. They're planning to sell or lease 17 properties that's 32 parcels covering 24.5 acres as they shift there. Headquarters to a new 21 acre spot near US 19 and Olmerton Road. Locals pack to town hall this week pushing hard for leases over outright sales to keep some control over the future. Residents are voicing real worries about the Church of Scientology snapping it up. They already own 22 buildings downtown and nearly two hundred properties citywide. Folks want transparency to ensure it lands in the right hands and preserves the area's heritage. The Church is all in on revamping Cleveland Street with plans to fix up six buildings, 40 storefronts and build a $50 million. 83,000 square foot entertainment spot. They're pitching it as a boost for a lively downtown. Developers can submit proposals starting mid-June with approvals targeted by December 2027.

1:00This choice will shape Clearwater's vibe for generations to come. That's your update from Tampa Bay News today, powered by AI.