The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

Kathy Steele

Reclaimed water gets go-ahead

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Pasco County commissioners have approved a $13 million reclaimed water project, with a 25-year lease agreement.

Construction costs for the project will be shared with the Southwest Florida Water Management District, which is providing about $7 million, including an estimated $5 million for construction.

The goals for the project are to provide the county with up to 5 million gallons of reclaimed water a day, restore natural habitats harmed by well field pumping, and to recharge the Floridan aquifer.

Pasco’s residences and golf courses are among targeted beneficiaries of the reclaimed water project.

The new facility will be built on about 237 acres of the 4G Ranch, a working cattle farm of about 2,905 acres, off State Road 52 in Land O’ Lakes.

The total lease costs are estimated at about $2.3 million for 25 years, but the lease can be extended for three 10-year periods.

Lease payments of about $40,000 will be paid in 2016, according to the agreement between Pasco and landowner, William Ted Phillips Sr.

Phillips is also chairman of Phillips & Jordan, the company hired for the project’s construction phase.

Four commissioners voted to support the project and lease agreement, but Pasco County Commissioner Jack Mariano dissented. He argued that more should be done to review alternate sites for the project, including at least one property in the Hudson area.

Mariano also said leasing land, as opposed to owning it, might not be the best financial choice long-term.

“We need to look at all the options,” he said.

Construction on a series of manmade wetlands is expected to begin in 2016, with initial testing and start date for the system in 2018.

Reclaimed water for the wetlands will be delivered and treated via a network of pipes, a pumping station and an existing reclaimed water main near the 4G Ranch.

The location of the property, between the Cross Bar well fields and the Cypress Creek well fields, is critical, said Michael Carballa, the county’s utilities engineer director.

“For decades, pumping (of water) has caused degradation to surface waters of natural habitat in these lands and areas,” Carballa said.

In some areas, such as Big Fish Lake near Masaryktown, Tampa Bay Water is paying to drill wells to draw water out of the aquifer to augment surface waters, he said. “Projects like this take a product that we essentially don’t use as much as we should and put it to a better use.”

Some concerns were voiced, however.

Owners of the Barthle Brothers Ranch, adjacent to the reclaimed water project, are worried about how reclaimed water operations could affect their land.

Larry Barthle, a third-generation rancher, said the family supports the project and favors reclaimed water, but has some concerns.

The language in the agreement is too vague in describing protections against negative impacts to surrounding lands, including flooding, Barthle said.

“What does adverse water mean?” Barthle said.

Mike Hancock, from Swiftmud’s Water Resources division, told commissioners that additional monitoring wells could be installed on Barthle’s property or “wherever it’s needed.”

With the county’s increasing growth, Pasco County Commissioner Ted Schrader said, “This is a model project. I think it’s a win-win for everybody.”

As the county grows, the project might be expanded.

“If the project were successful, we’d like nothing better than to replicate it,” said Carballa.

Published June 1, 2016

Business Digest 06/01/2016

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Grant winners
Women-n-Charge awarded two $1,000 grants to two area businesswomen. The first went to Celeste Kellar, the principal of Pepin Academies Pasco. The charter school serves students, with learning disabilities, in grades three to 12. Plans are ongoing to find a permanent location in Pasco County and create a state-of-the-art therapeutic learning environment for the education, social and emotional needs of students. Learn more at Pasco.PepinAcademies.com.

The second grant went to Jan Roberts, co-owner of Roberts Ceiling Cleaning. Her company opened in 2015, and provides ceiling and wall cleaning services to commercial office buildings, event locations and restaurants. Learn more at RobertsCeilingCleaning.com.

The mission of Women-n-Charge is to support and assist professional women in managing their businesses more effectively. The group meets the first Friday of the month at Pebble Creek Country Club in Tampa from 11:30 a.m. to 1:15 p.m.

For information, visit Women-n-Charge.com.

 

Asturia names amenity manager
Asturia recently named Jonathan Houchens as its amenity manager.

Houchens will manage Asturia resident events and the 5,800-square-foot clubhouse. Amenities at the clubhouse include a playground, parks, picnic areas, a pavilion, multi-use paths and a pedestrian bridge spanning a centrally located lake. The clubhouse offers state-of-the-art fitness equipment, covered outdoor living rooms, a resort-style swimming pool and wide lawns for recreation.

Growing business
Air Hawk Heating and Cooling is setting up shop in a new location at 2436 Merchant Ave., Suite 102, in Odessa. Owner Joseph Massa started his business nearly two years ago by working by himself out of his home. He now has eight employees and a business that serves northern Pinellas County, western and central Pasco County, and the southern Hernando County area. He offers repair service, maintenance and installation of air-conditioning equipment for residential and commercial customers, and for new construction.

For information, contact Massa at (813) 929-4295 or .

Chamber breakfast
The Greater Zephyrhills Chamber of Commerce will have its monthly meeting on June 2 from 7 a.m. to 8:30 a.m., at the Golden Corral at 6855 Gall Blvd., in Zephyrhills.

Guest speaker will be Ron Yasurek, general manager of Mosaic’s Plant City facility.

Yasurek will talk about the company’s phosphate operations and the mission of helping the world grow the food it needs.

For information, call the chamber at (813) 782-1913, or email .

Ribbon cutting
The San Antonio Citizens Federal Credit Union will have a ribbon cutting on June 7 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., at 28909 State Road 56. Come enjoy this free event.

For information, contact the Greater Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce at (813) 994-8534 or .

Network breakfast
Business Link will have its monthly networking breakfast on June 8 from 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m., at Wesley Chapel Toyota at 5300 Eagleston Blvd., in Wesley Chapel. Come for tips and networking to strengthen your business. This monthly gathering, held at various locations, provides networking and an information-sharing platform for the small business community. A complimentary breakfast will be provided.

RSVP to Rebecca Gaddis at (352) 588-2732, ext. 1237, or email .

Plantation Palms golf course to reopen

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After a hiatus of more than two years, activities are expected to begin again at the Plantation Palms Golf Course.

A new owner took possession on May 16 and plans to get the golf course’s fairways and greens ready for use within a few months.

Bill Place, owner of Ace Golf Inc., bought the golf course and clubhouse for about $700,000 in a short sale approved by the U.S. Department of Justice. His general manager picked up the keys to the clubhouse at the closing, said Rob Rochlin of Dennis Realty.

Place is on vacation in Africa.

In an email sent to The Laker/Lutz News in late April, Place said he hoped to have the golf course open within four months.

Plantation Palms golf course and clubhouse, which have been closed for about two years, are expected to be reopened by Ace Golf, the new owner, in about four months. (File Photo)
Plantation Palms golf course and clubhouse, which have been closed for about two years, are expected to be reopened by Ace Golf, the new owner, in about four months.
(File Photo)

After years of neglect, the golf course needs extensive work, including restoration of the fairways and greens, Place said, in a later email on May 18.

“Grass and weeds grew up to 6 feet high!” Place said. “The greens are all dead, and most of the fairways will have to be re-grassed.”

Almost everything from the parking lot to the clubhouse has to be renewed.

“It’s been an eyesore,” said Tim Hodes, president of the Plantation Palms Homeowners Association. But, he added, “We’re embracing it and looking forward to it reopening.”

A low estimate on the cost to get the golf course ready would be about $800,000, Rochlin said.

With the rainy season around the corner, he added, “You have the window of opportunity. Now is the time to get it right.”

Place said social and golf memberships will be available, with public play during most hours.

In addition, the more than 800 Plantation Palms’ residents will support the renovations by purchasing social memberships for each of the next five years. Plans also are to add a 3,000-square-foot banquet room overlooking the golf course. It will be available for weddings, meetings and other events.

Place said he expects to open a version of Mulligan’s Irish Pub at Plantation Palms, similar to restaurants at other golf courses owned by Ace Golf.

Plantation Palms’ golf course is regarded as one of the top courses in Tampa Bay, with a 4-star rating from Golf Digest, Place said in his email.

Rochlin has been marketing the 156-acre golf course for two years. It also has a driving range, clubhouse, restaurant and bar.

MJS Golf Group bought the property in 2011 for about $2.1 million, financed by the Native American Bank of Denver. But, owners Mitchell Osceola, Jayson Ray and Steven McDonald were plagued with recurring financial losses and debts.

The course shut down briefly in 2013, then reopened briefly, only to close for good in May 2014.

Rocky Morgan of GSP Business Alliance stepped forward in 2015 to say he would buy the course. But, Rochlin said Morgan never came through with money to finance the sale.

Because the mortgage holder – Native American Bank of Denver – serves Native Americans, the short sale had to be approved by the U.S. Department of Justice.

Place has extensive experience in golf course and driving range management in the Tampa Bay area.

His company, Ace Golf, owns and operates Crescent Oaks and Wentworth golf clubs in Tarpon Springs, and Pebble Creek in New Tampa. Place also has driving ranges in Brandon and Riverview.

Plantation Palms was an attractive acquisition, Place said, because of its proximity to his other golf courses and the huge growth on State Road 54.

“I think the right guy got it,” Rochlin said.

Published May 25, 2016

Two local chambers consider joining forces

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The Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce and the Trinity-Odessa Chamber of Commerce are considering a merger.

An exploratory committee is beginning meetings this week, with an eye toward seeing if combining the two chambers will yield positive results for both chambers and their members, said Elayne Bassinger, president of the Central Pasco Chamber.

Bassinger said the Central Pasco Chamber was approached by the Trinity-Odessa Chamber, with the idea that a merger may be mutually beneficial.

Initially, the chairman of Trinity-Odessa Chamber’s board, Todd Pillars, and its incoming chairman, Mike Kelley, met with Bassinger and Terri Dusek, incoming president for the Central Pasco Chamber.

“When there was an interest in seeing if this would be doable, then the executive board from Trinity-Odessa met with the executive board of Central Pasco Chamber; from there we decided there would be an exploratory committee,” Bassinger said.

The exploratory committee is made up of the four-member executive board of the Central Pasco Chamber and four members of the executive board of the Trinity-Odessa Chamber.

The committee will consider the logistics and benefits of a merger.

If the chambers merged, the single chamber would have about 800 members. Currently, both chambers each have about 400 members.

The larger chamber would provide a stronger voice, enabling it to be a stronger advocate for issues that are important to businesses in the area, Bassinger said.

“Financially, we would be a stronger chamber,” Bassinger added, noting the two chambers could pool their resources.

Businesses who are now members of both chambers would need just a single membership, too, she noted.

“That also frees up our companies to sponsor more because when you’re splitting your advertising dollars between a number of chambers, then you’re more limited in the resources you have to support each of those chambers,” Bassinger said.

While noting a number of benefits, Bassinger emphasized that no decision has been reached yet.

“We really are in the preliminary stages of making sure that it’s good for the members, as well as for the chambers,” she said.

“After doing our due diligence, if a recommendation is that a merger is what we think would be the best for the chambers and the members, then that would be taken to our respective boards for approval,” Bassinger said.

The chambers issued a joint news release that a merger is being considered, to ensure that everyone has accurate information, Bassinger said.

“We were already hearing that we had merged,” Bassinger said. “Yes, we are talking, but in in no way has that been cemented.”

“We hope within 60 days that we would at least have a recommendation,” she said.

If a merger is approved, then “we would like to move as quickly as possible to make that happen and make it as seamless as we can also, for both sides,” she said.

In merging the two organizations, the goal would be to preserve current activities that are important to the individual chamber, Bassinger said.

“We would look at what was important to each chamber, and how we would work that in,” Bassinger said. For instance, Wednesday morning networking at Hungry Harry’s Family Bar-B-Que would be preserved because that’s important for Central Pasco Chamber members, she said.

Mike Kelley, the incoming chairman of the Trinity-Odessa Chamber, said his organization is interested in the merger because of all of the growth occurring in the Central Pasco area.

In the news release about the merger talks, Pillars noted: “The strengths of each organization compliment the other and it is believed that one combined organization will be stronger, more effective and more efficient.”

The Trinity-Odessa Chamber organized in 2014.

The Central Pasco Chamber, celebrating its 41st year, is the third-oldest chamber in Pasco County, Bassinger said.

Published May 25, 2016

Rubber ducks create a splashing success

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The crowd cheered.

The loudspeaker broadcast a quacking-good tune – “Disco, Disco Duck.”

And, with a quick dumping of about 2,000 rubber ducks into Lake Padgett, the flock of ducks floated off, with a push from a high-pressure fire hose squirted into the water.

The rubber ducks, numbered on their underside, were adopted through donations. The owner of the duck that floated to first-place also won a bonus of $2,500. Some 68 prizes were awarded to the first ducks that floated to the finish line, out of a field of more than 2,000. (Fred Bellet/Photos)
The rubber ducks, numbered on their underside, were adopted through donations. The owner of the duck that floated to first-place also won a bonus of $2,500. Some 68 prizes were awarded to the first ducks that floated to the finish line, out of a field of more than 2,000.
(Fred Bellet/Photos)

Prizes went to donors whose ducks were among the first 68 to hit the finish line. But, the true winners were the community organizations that will receive donations from the Rotary Club of Wesley Chapel Noon.

More than 100 people came to the service club’s Duck Derby on May 21. Held for the first time this year, it is intended to become an annual event.

The all-day affair brought out families that shared shady spots on the lawn behind Hungry Harry’s Family Bar-B-Que, off Land O’ Lakes Boulevard.

They enjoyed live music and dined from a buffet of Hungry Harry’s barbecue, beans, chicken, and macaroni and cheese.

Ducks could be adopted at prices ranging from $5 for a single duck to $100 for a flock of 25.

The inflatable Rotary International sign is reflected in the sunglasses of Geoff Kranich, a member of the Rotary Club of Trinity. Kranich helped Erin Meyer, president of the Wesley Chapel Rotary, install the inflatable sign at the entrance to the Duck Derby.
The inflatable Rotary International sign is reflected in the sunglasses of Geoff Kranich, a member of the Rotary Club of Trinity. Kranich helped Erin Meyer, president of the Wesley Chapel Rotary, install the inflatable sign at the entrance to the Duck Derby.

Marcey Knight, 16, and Abri Woods, 17, worked at a drink table, taking tickets and handing out cool refreshments.

The Wiregrass Ranch High School students are members of Interact, a school-sponsored club that provides opportunities for community service.

Children bounced in the bouncy house, slid down an inflated slide or played carnival-like games for prizes.

Sales of the rubber ducks, barbecue and drinks went toward community projects, organizations or student scholarships.

“We support a variety of charities every year,” said Erin Meyer, club president.

Local and international projects and groups that receive the club’s donations include Pasco Education Foundation, Everyday Blessings, Farmworkers Self-Help, Habitat for Humanity, Sunrise Women’s Shelter and installation of water filters in third-world countries.

Jimmy Mason, in the foreground, of the Wesley Chapel Rotary goes after an errant rubber duck that jumped the floating lane during the Duck Derby.
Jimmy Mason, in the foreground, of the Wesley Chapel Rotary goes after an errant rubber duck that jumped the floating lane during the Duck Derby.

In all, 68 prizes were handed out including a $2,500 grand prize to Brian and Isabelle Dunleavy. Other prizes included a fishing trip for five with a charter boat captain, two nights at Saddlebrook Resort, a $250 certificate for automobile repairs from TWA Firestone, a wine basket, pet grooming, and bowling games from Royal Lanes.

Derby sponsors included Fun Services of Land O’ Lakes, Sam’s Club, Cash 4 Gold, The Laker/Lutz News, and Hungry Harry’s Family Bar-B-Que.

The Wesley Chapel Rotary Club Noon hosts fundraising events annually to aid local community organizations or projects. The duck derby is expected to become a yearly tradition.

“Things like this allow us to have fellowship as a club and also to give back to the community,” said Kelly Mothershead, past president of the club.

Mike McDonald, of Trinity, was one of the performers at the Duck Derby held behind Hungry Harry’s Bar Family Bar-B-Que on U.S. 41. Held for the first time in Land O’ Lakes, it is expected to be an annual event.
Mike McDonald, of Trinity, was one of the performers at the Duck Derby held behind Hungry Harry’s Bar Family Bar-B-Que on U.S. 41. Held for the first time in Land O’ Lakes, it is expected to be an annual event.

Events like the duck derby create a presence in the community, said Rebecca Smith, chairwoman of the club’s foundation.

“We kind of touch everybody, and the more the merrier,” Smith said.

The Webelos of Cub Scout Pack No. 149 in Wesley Chapel helped build the duck derby course. They practiced their skills in tying square knots to link together the colorful noodles that marked the course’s boundaries.

“It was fun,” said 6-year-old Andrew Holliday.

His family bought a few ducks the day of the race, and enjoyed a picnic lunch.

“We just wanted to see what it was like,” said Brian Holliday, Andrew’s father.

Brother Connor, 5, sat in a lawn chair, with a plate piled high with his favorite food – mac n’ cheese.

At the shoreline, children waded into the lake, splashing and tossing small pebbles into the water. Or, they wandered over to climb inside the cab of the fire truck parked nearby. Pasco County Fire Rescue provided the hose and water to get the duck derby moving along.

At the derby’s finish line, club members plucked the winning ducks from the water and popped them into plastic bags for identification. Each duck had a number printed on its belly.

The disco dance tune “Disco, Disco, Duck” kept the festivities bouncing along.

“Wasn’t that adorable?” said Smith, who is already ready to join in the fun next year.

Published May 25, 2016

Business Digest 05/25/2016

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Seeking entrepreneurs
Sears Hometown and Outlet Stores Inc., is seeking entrepreneurs or independent retailers to bring its Sears Hometown Stores format back to the Zephyrhills area, according to a news release from Sears Hometown Stores.

The company’s outlet inside the Kmart in Zephyrhills recently closed.

Sears Hometown Stores offers brand names including Kenmore, Maytag, KitchenAid and Whirlpool, an assortment of lawn and garden equipment, Craftsman tools, fitness equipment and mattresses at discount prices.

Its in-store kiosks also connect customers with the full range of goods and services available on Sears.com.

Potential investors can open a stand-alone store of about 8,000 square feet to 10,000 square feet or add a Hometown store to their existing business as a “store within a store.”

The Sears Authorized Hometown Stores Program is not considered a franchise program. For information, contact Jackie Adams, regional development manager for Sears Hometown Stores, at (678) 524-5062, or visit OwnASearsStore.com.

New restaurant
Pollo Tropical restaurant is headed for construction at Cypress Creek Town Center on property being developed by Sierra Properties, on the north side of State Road 56. Pasco County’s building construction services department issued building permits within the last two weeks for the fast-food chicken eatery, which will have about 3,600 square feet of indoor space and more than 400 square feet of patio outside.

The northern side of the planned town center is across from Tampa Premium Outlets, where Wesley Chapel Boulevard, State Road 56 and State Road 54 meet.

Name change
Premier Lifestyle Management is the new brand name for the former Premier Concierge Services. The company also launched a new website. The company serves the Tampa Bay and New York City metropolitan areas offering help to busy professionals with all aspects of their personal, home and business lives.

For information, visit the new website at PLM.management.

Chamber mixer
The Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce will have a mixer on May 25 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., at Royal Lanes, 1927 Brinson Road in Lutz. The chamber will have a new member orientation before the mixer.

The free event is sponsored by Royal Lanes.

For information, email , or call (813) 909-2722.

Economic briefing
The Greater Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce will have its monthly economic development briefing on May 26 at 11:30 a.m., at Pebble Creek Country Club, 10550 Regents Park Drive in Tampa. The guest speaker will be Santiago Corrada, chief executive officer and president of Visit Tampa Bay.

The $15 cost includes a buffet lunch.

For information, email , or call (813) 994-8534.

Uber ride and mentorship
In partnership with Working Women of Tampa Bay, the ride-share service, Uber is offering local professionals, entrepreneurs, students and aspiring executives a ride and a chance to meet and learn from Tampa Bay’s female business leaders. The special offer will be available on May 26 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Enter the promo code TBMENTOR to unlock the special MENTOR option. If available, you will be randomly matched with a mentor and picked up curbside for a free 15-minute mentorship session. Have your resume ready or a list of goals you would like to discuss. Get career advice, pitch an idea or just glean as much wisdom as you can.

At the end of the session, you will be returned to your pickup location. Demand will be high and availability may be limited.

Mentors may include Trimeka Benjamin, president of Swim Digital Group; Dion Lim, anchor of 10 News CBS Tampa Bay; Lori Rodriguez, business development executive of Frazier & Deeter; Jenn Greacen, executive director of Clear Labs; Kathleen Shanahan, chairwoman of Uretek Holdings; Jessica Rivelli, founder of Working Women of Tampa Bay; and Yvonne Fry, chief fry cook of Fryed Egg Productions.

For information, follow @Uber_Florida on Twitter for more details and updates on mentors.

Ribbon cutting
Gear Spinners will host a ribbon cutting on May 31 at 4:30 p.m., with an open house from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m., at 25344 Wesley Chapel Blvd., Suite 103, in Wesley Chapel.

Gear Spinners, founded by Thomas Giella, recently moved out of the SMARTstart incubator space in Dade City to its new office location. On May 12, Gear Spinners received the incubator member of the year award from SMARTstart, which is sponsored by the Pasco Economic Development Council.

The company, which offers website design and other online services, also added two divisions, Complete I.T. Computer Repair and Tampa Bay Home Theater Installs. Finger foods and drinks will be available on first come, first serve basis. Gear Spinners will be offering special promotions during the week of May 31.

For information, call (813) 235-0554, or visit GearSpinners.com.

 

Tampa Bay Express gaining favor in Pasco

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A project to build express toll lanes on interstate highways, known as the Tampa Bay Express, has picked up an endorsement from the Pasco County Commission.

Commissioners voted 4-1 on May 10 to send a letter to the Hillsborough Metropolitan Planning Organization urging a favorable vote on the project.

The planning organization is scheduled for a June 22 vote on a project that has gained wide support in Pasco as a solution to commuter gridlock.

Pasco County Commissioner Jack Mariano voted no. He cited concerns about the increasing reliance on toll roads to generate revenues. He did approve of the potential for rapid bus service included in TBX.

“All the toll roads in the world don’t necessarily help your traffic,” he said.

The Hillsborough MPO’s decision will determine if the project goes forward as a transportation priority.

State highway officials peg the initial construction costs at about $3.3 billion. Some state estimates put the costs at as much as $6 billion.

“This is very, very important for the residents of Pasco County,” said Pasco County Commissioner Mike Moore. “We think about quality of life, especially for residents who commute back and forth to Hillsborough County and Pinellas County on a daily basis.”

For some, commuting times can be more than two hours a day, Moore said. “If we save 30 to 45 minutes for them, just think about the increased quality of life, the time they will spend with family and friends, not on the road.”

In recent weeks, the Pasco Economic Development Council and The Greater Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce also have come out in favor of the TBX.

The Pasco MPO added its voice to the chorus on May 12 by approving a resolution in favor of TBX.

Outside of Pasco, the TBX has been a divisive issue for months.

Some Tampa city leaders, including Mayor Bob Buckhorn, are strongly in favor. But, community activists in Tampa’s historic neighborhoods of V.M. Ybor, Ybor City, Tampa Heights and Seminole Heights strenuously object.

They say the added express lanes will slice through their streets, wiping out more than 100 businesses and residences.

Opponents have held protest marches and packed public meetings. Yard signs opposing TBX are a common sight.

The Sunshine Citizens is pushing against the project.

Most recently, the civil rights office of the Federal Highway Administration agreed to a preliminary investigation of TBX, based on a complaint that the toll system benefits wealthy commuters and motorists, while harming minorities who live in the affected neighborhoods.

If approved, nearly 50 miles of new toll lanes would be built adjacent to existing non-toll lanes along Interstate 275, Interstate 75 and Interstate 4. The toll lanes would stretch from St. Petersburg to Wesley Chapel, but also along Interstate 4 to Plant City and southward along Interstate 75 toward Manatee County.

Toll fees would vary depending on traffic volume, with most expensive costs likely at rush hours.

A new span of the Howard Frankland Bridge, between Tampa and St. Petersburg, also is part of the overall highway project.

And, the express lanes would open up to rapid bus service.

“I can’t emphasize how important this project is as a cornerstone of the master plan for the seven county region,” said Ramond Chiaramonte, chief executive officer of the Tampa Bay Area Regional Transit Authority (TBARTA). “I think we’re at a critical juncture. This is something that can transform this region within a decade from where we are now to a functioning transit system where we have express transit buses beginning to connect our suburban areas.”

The project could add about 90,000 temporary jobs during construction, said Richard Gehring, Pasco’s strategic policy administrator. While Tampa Bay is one of the largest job generators in the state, he said, “One of the biggest constraints on Tampa Bay is the transportation system.”

Work is underway to the north on about $400 million in highway projects, such as the State Road 52 interchange redesign at I-75, and TBX is a critical complement in efforts to reduce regional traffic congestion, Gehring said.

About 52 percent of Pasco residents commute outside the county daily, with about 66 percent of those motorists heading to jobs in Hillsborough, said James Edwards, director of Pasco County’s MPO.

“This is the first step to say we’re going to give Pasco commuters a choice,” he said.

Plus, Edwards said, “We look forward to reverse trips from Tampa.”

Published May 18, 2016

Developers have ideas for Gowers Corner

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An iconic crossroads in the Land O’ Lakes area — known as Gowers Corner — soon could be filling up with shops, offices and restaurants.

Pasco County commissioners approved a land use change on April 26 that clears the way for commercial development on about 44 acres at the southwest corner of the intersection.

“I think this is a great project for Land O’ Lakes,” said Pasco County Commissioner Mike Moore. “Right now, they don’t have that many amenities in the area.”

State Road 52 and U.S. 41 intersect at a historical crossroads, known as Gowers Corner. Developers are eyeing vacant land at the southwest corner for shops, offices, restaurants and some residential units. (Kathy Steele/Staff Photo)
State Road 52 and U.S. 41 intersect at a historical crossroads, known as Gowers Corner. Developers are eyeing vacant land at the southwest corner for shops, offices, restaurants and some residential units.
(Kathy Steele/Staff Photo)

Currently, the crossroads is sparsely filled out with a Citgo and a Speedway gas station. Large swaths of wooded land and fields behind complete the mostly rural landscape.

But, change is coming.

Developers plan to submit detailed plans for a project with about 215,000 square feet of commercial and office space. Forty residential units are proposed above retail shops, and an undefined water feature is planned as a centerpiece for the commercial center.

Gowers Corner is a landmark — steeped in the history of pioneer settlers and business owners.

According to local historians, the crossroads and surrounding community, took its name from lumberman William Arthur Gower. He migrated from Georgia to Pasco and became supervisor of a sawmill in Fivay.

Gower at one time owned land at all four corners of the intersection. In the 1930s, he operated the first gasoline station and convenience store in the area.

Today, corporate entities of another lumber family – the Tibbetts – are owners of the property now slated for development.

However, the Tibbetts’ project and future roadway construction are raising concerns among some area residents.

Land O’ Lakes’ resident Theodore DeLong said the county needs to address stormwater drainage before any construction is approved.

During the torrential rains of July and August, canals that drain stormwater into Green Lake overflowed. Several homes in the vicinity of Gowers Corner flooded and septic tanks stopped functioning.

“The project itself, I’m not against,” DeLong said. But he added, “We have been having tremendous problems from the lake because of flooding.”

Residents need answers, and a fix to the problem, he said.

There also are concerns about the impact of a proposed project from the Florida Department of Transportation to realign the intersection and add more lanes to the roadways.

County Commissioner Moore assured DeLong that county and state officials are working on the flooding issue.

“We’re wanting to get with SWIFTMUD (Southwest Water Management District) and looking for a possible resolution,” Moore said.

Published May 18, 2016

Pasco County on a path to create wildlife corridors

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A network of wildlife corridors is closer to reality as landowners concede most of their objections have been resolved.

The ordinance comes nearly 16 years after a lawsuit settlement mandated that Pasco County create the corridors, also known as “critical linkages.”

The linkages function as protected pathways for wildlife as diverse as bears, panthers, salamanders and frogs.

At the first public hearing on May 10, Pasco County commissioners had a presentation from county staff members and took public comment. No vote was held.

Pasco County Commissioner Mike Moore questioned whether a county ordinance to create wildlife corridors did enough to protect property owners’ rights. (Photos courtesy of Richard K. Riley)
Pasco County Commissioner Mike Moore questioned whether a county ordinance to create wildlife corridors did enough to protect property owners’ rights.
(Photos courtesy of Richard K. Riley)

Commissioners are scheduled to have their second public hearing and vote on the issue at their June 21 meeting at 10 a.m., in their chambers in New Port Richey.

“It’s been a long road to get here,” said Matt Armstrong, Pasco’s executive planner for the Long Range Planning Group.

The May 10 hearing was postponed from last year when commissioners asked for meetings and discussion on the issue.

The lawsuit was filed in the late 1990s and settled in 2000. Previous county commissions considered, but never approved, an ordinance.

Under the proposed ordinance, landowners could “willingly” sell their land to the county. Otherwise, the ordinance’s regulations would apply only if a landowner sought to rezone property for land uses of greater density or intensity, and had a corridor within the property’s boundaries.

Matt Armstrong, left, Pasco’s executive director for the Long Range Planning Group, and Chief Assistant County Attorney David Goldstein answered questions at a public hearing on creating wildlife corridors.
Matt Armstrong, left, Pasco’s executive director for the Long Range Planning Group, and Chief Assistant County Attorney David Goldstein answered questions at a public hearing on creating wildlife corridors.

Tweaks to the ordinance include a process to negotiate a corridor’s width; potentially rerouting the corridor without filing an expensive rezoning application; allowing a third party appraisal in land sale negotiations and an appeal to the commissioners; and splitting maintenance costs related to the corridors and their easements between the county and landowner.

“I’ve kind of run out of arguments against this ordinance, believe it or not,” said attorney David Smolker. He represents a client who owns about 140 acres that fall within one of seven wildlife corridors.

Mac Davis of the Gulf Coast Conservancy said county staff had listened to landowners and made reasonable changes. Now he said, the ordinance should be “rounding third base and heading for home.”

Determining the width of corridors, however, still gives Smolker and others some pause.

Keith Wiley, the county’s natural resources manager, said, “The staff will have the mechanisms to have the discussion with owners. Every piece along the corridor is different.”

But he added, the science behind how to create viable corridors is sound. “It’s being replicated across the world,” he said.

Minimum width is 500 feet; maximum width is 2,500 feet.

Mac Davis, of the Gulf Coast Conservancy, spoke at a public hearing in support of the county’s plan to create wildlife corridors.
Mac Davis, of the Gulf Coast Conservancy, spoke at a public hearing in support of the county’s plan to create wildlife corridors.

About 7,000 acres is needed to create seven wildlife corridors, but the county already owns some land. Some areas are wetlands that can’t be developed. About 2,500 acres is owned privately and would be regulated through the ordinance, county officials said.

In Central Pasco, corridors would link current and proposed development projects at Starkey Ranch, Crossbar, Connerton and Cypress Creek.

With the spurt of development in Pasco, Janet Howie, of the Nature Coast Florida Native Plant Society, said, “Ecological corridors are even more important to help prevent a total environmental wasteland from happening.”

Some still have concerns, however.

Land use attorney Ethel Hammer told commissioners during public comment that the ordinance would substantially affect property owned by the Bexley family. She plans to meet with county staff to detail their objections.

Landowner Jim McBride said the corridors should be more narrow. He also said there would be problems arising from people seeking access to the corridors.

“Ultimately, I believe the corridors are going to have to be fenced,” he said. “You need to protect wildlife from people.”

Pasco County Commissioner Mike Moore shared that concern.

“Wildlife corridors are not people corridors,” he said. “We could have people roaming back and forth.”

It’s difficult to write an ordinance that covers every scenario, but Chief Assistant County Attorney David Goldstein said, “There is nothing in the ordinance requiring us to leave it open to the public. It’s best to deal with those on a case by case basis.”

Published May 18, 2016

Cities to have backup water

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A project to link the water systems of Zephyrhills and Dade City is headed to construction, most likely by this summer.

The Zephyrhills City Council, on May 10, approved a contract for about $1.7 million with Suncoast Development of Pinellas County.

Work can begin after the Florida Department of Transportation completes its resurfacing and trails project on U.S. 301, which could happen within the next month.

Once underway, work on the water systems is expected to take about a month, said John Bostic, utilities director for the City of Zephyrhills.

Last year, the cities of Zephyrhills and Dade City reached a 25-year interlocal agreement to link their water systems. The agreement is seen as a backup plan during water emergencies. Both cities also anticipate greater water needs as more residences and commercial development sprouts along U.S. 301, the federal highway that links the two.

“If one of us ever runs out of water, we can send water on its way to one or the other,” Bostic said.

Each city would pay the going rate at the time, according to the agreement.
The project involves installing about three miles of water pipes and fire hydrants along the east side of U.S. 301, from Phelps Road to near the highway’s intersection with U.S. 98 Bypass in Dade City. Centennial Road will mark the dividing line between the two systems.

Construction costs will be paid through a $2 million grant awarded to the City of Zephyrhills by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection.

Both cities use multiple public wells to supply residents and businesses with drinking water drawn from the Floridan aquifer. Zephyrhills gets most of its water from the Hillsborough River Groundwater Basin, and a portion from the Withlacoochee River Basin. Dade City’s permitted wells are within the Withlacoochee basin.

Published May 18, 2016