CANDIDATE FORUM FEBRUARY 4TH

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February 4 @ 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm

Hello residents of Redington Beach!  On March 9 we will have a municipal election for our Mayor and two open Commissioner seats.  In partnership with the League of Women Voters of the St. Petersburg Area we will be hosting a candidate forum to hear from all of the eligible candidates.  The League is soliciting questions from the public to be asked at the candidate forum and they will ask as many questions as possible in the allotted time.  Please share your thoughts with the us; we want to know what’s important to you!  Questions must be submitted by January 22nd at 11:00 pm. See link below to submit questions.

The forums will be posted on the League’s Facebook Live and the League’s YouTube Channel..  The forums will be posted on these sites and will remain available through the March 9 Election day.

Commissioner Forum Broadcast:  Thursday February 4, 2021 6:00 pm

Mayor Forum  Broadcast:   Thursday February 4, 2021 7:00 pm

If you’re not sure where to vote visit the Pinellas County Supervisor of Elections Find Your Polling Place webpage.  Looking for more info on the Races, Candidates, and their Platforms?  Visit the League’s nonpartisan Voter Guide at Vote411.org.

Here is the place to post your questions for the candidates  Redington Beach questionnaire

Redington Beach Elections

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The Town of Redington Beach holds elections on the second Tuesday in March of each year, or in conjunction with a Presidential Preference Primary. Commissioners and the Mayor are elected for staggered two-year terms. All candidates for the Town of Redington Beach Commission must be residents of the Town for at least one year.

There are 2 candidates seeking the position of Mayor:

Commissioner Fred Steiermann and Commissioner Dave Will

5 candidates have qualified to run for the 2 open Commission seats:

Richard Cariello

Jason Crow

Tim Kornijtschuk

John Miller

Shawntay Skjoldager

The election will be held March 9. Commissioners and the mayor are elected for staggered two-year terms.

The qualifying period for candidates to file ended Dec. 18.

To find out more about local elections, voter registration, polling locations or voting districts, visit the Pinellas County Supervisor of Elections website at http://www.votepinellas.com.

To request a mail-in ballot, click here.

If you are interested in finding out more about the Town of Redington Beach elections or candidacy, contact the Town Clerk’s Office at (727) 391-3875.

IMPORTANT FLOODING WEBINAR 12/15 AT 6PM

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Online conversation to address Tropical Storm Eta impacts

Residents along the beaches, low lying areas and mobile home parks in Pinellas County were impacted by Tropical Storm Eta, many incurring damage from the rain and storm surge. They now face issues with insurance, homes that are inhabitable and questions about disaster assistance.

To address citizens’ concerns, Pinellas County Emergency Management and Floodplain Management will hold an online conversation, “Flooding: Face, Fiction and FEMA,” to address on Tuesday, Dec. 15, from 6 to 7 p.m.

Moderator Hank Hodde, the county’s Sustainability and Resilience Coordinator, will be joined by Joe Borries, the Pinellas County Emergency Management Operations Manager, Lisa Foster, Floodplain Manager and Jess McCracken, Whole Community Engagement Specialist. Representatives from local municipalities are expected to join the conversation to talk about flooding risks in Pinellas County, disaster assistance, insurance policies and protecting a home in the wake of a flood. Questions will be addressed throughout the event.

Register in advance for this webinar:

https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_Vo-7H5aMSiecTL6Y3QRJuQ

After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.

For more information on the event, call Pinellas County Emergency Management at (727) 464-3634 or email [email protected].

FLOOD DAMAGE PERMITTING INFORMATION

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IF YOUR HOUSE FLOODED
DURING TROPICAL STORM ETA…

The Building Department has issued a list of procedures to follow to make sure the permitting process is both quick and efficient.

Send an email to [email protected]

Subject line: TS ETA WATER DAMAGE PERMIT

Include in the email: 

WRITTEN SCOPE OF WORK, DESCRIBING WHAT WORK IS TO BE DONE

A COST ESTIMATE FOR THE WORK TO BE DONE

THE NAME AND LICENSE INFORMATION OF THE LICENSED CONTRACTOR DOING THE WORK

PHOTOGRAPHS (IF AVAILABLE) SHOWING AREA OF WORK AND EXTENT OF DAMAGE

PERMIT APPLICATION (click this link): https://fmsbuildingdepartment.com/towns/redington-beach

If you have questions or need additional guidance, please call:
Bruce Cooper, Building Official – 727-263-8366

DUMPSTERS AVAILABLE FOR RESIDENTS

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The Town has 2 dumpsters available for residents to use for storm debris. One is located at Town Park (by the playground) and the other is located on the causeway on 161st Avenue. If you have household debris because of Tropical Storm Eta, please utilize these dumpsters. We will replace them once they reach full capacity. Please do NOT dump chemicals or electronics in the dumpsters!!

Advice & Information for Residents 

Residents who experienced property damage from Tropical Storm Eta should take special care in documenting losses for insurance and hiring only qualified, licensed contractors to complete repairs.

Cleaning up flood damage

  • Remove wet contents immediately to prevent mold. Wet carpeting, furniture, bedding, and other items holding moisture can develop mold within 24 to 48 hours – more information.
  • Clean and disinfect everything that got wet. Mud left from floodwater can contain sewage and chemicals.

Filing insurance claims

  • Document everything and take inventory of damaged goods; take photos and videos (save to a cloud if you can). 
  • File a flood insurance claim as soon as possible; track all your conversations; work closely with your adjuster. Learn more here.
  • Do not sign an Assignment of Benefits contract as a condition of having your home repaired. Florida Property Insurance Fraud, Don’t Sign Your Rights Away.

Hiring a contractor

  • Watch out for “fly-by-night” contractors who take deposits and do not do any work. Never deal with any contractor soliciting work at your house.
  • Deal only with licensed and insured contractors. Verify that the license is current and active by calling the Pinellas County Construction Licensing Board at (727) 582-3100.
  • Ask for and check references of previous customers.
  • Get at least three estimates. Be certain the estimates are itemized and for the same work.
  • Avoid a contractor who asks for advance payment in full. Pay upon completion or as the work progresses. Always avoid paying in cash.
  • Avoid contractors who ask you, as the homeowner, to obtain the building permit.
  • Beware of any contractor who tells you that extensive or structural repairs do not require a permit.
  • Take your time when signing a contract and consider asking a knowledgeable friend, relative or attorney to review it before you sign. Make sure the warranty information is included in the contract.
  • Require the contractor to supply a final affidavit indicating that all subcontractors and suppliers used on the job are paid in full. Ensure that the work is inspected by the building department before final payment.

Document damage for the County  

Pinellas County is also gathering damage reports for potential state and federal emergency assistance. To document damage on your property, use the Online Damage Assessment Tool: https://arcg.is/1T4i9j.

 For more information on flood recovery, visit: www.pinellascounty.org/flooding.

For more information on avoiding post-disaster scams, visit: http://www.pinellascounty.org/consumer/pdf/post-disaster-consumer-tips.pdf

www.pinellascounty.org/flooding/property_protection.htm or bit.ly/PinellasPropertyProtection

CAR BURGLARY PREVENTION

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The Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office reported that several vehicles were burglarized and a vehicle was stolen from Redington Beach recently.  The Sheriff’s office would like to remind our residents of a few methods to reduce or eliminate this from happening:

  • Never leave the keys in your vehicle.
  • Always lock the doors, even when you are away from the vehicle for a short time.
  • Remove items (purses, tapes, CD’s, books, cash, etc.) from the vehicle when possible. If you can’t take them out, put them in a place that is out of view (in the trunk or tool box)
  • Remove “pull-out” style stereos and/or removable faceplates of stereos. (if equipped)
  • Park in lighted areas.
  • Park in garages or on driveways or near your house or apartment so that the vehicle can be viewed periodically.

Other vehicle security considerations:

  • Steering wheel lock bar or steering column locking cover.
  • “Engine kill” switch.
  • Car alarm.

COYOTE INFORMATION

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RESIDENTS CAN TAKE PRECAUTIONS TO DETER COYOTE PRESENCE

Coyotes are amazingly adaptable and can survive in nearly any habitat. They arrived in the 1970s and have found a home in parks and preserves and in wooded areas that surround many residential areas.

“As long as residents keep wildlife wild and do not provide easy meals to them, they should not pose a threat to people,” said Dr. Welch Agnew, director of Pinellas County Animal Services. “The problem comes in when people start leaving food outside their homes, or leave trash available, or allow their cats and dogs to roam the neighborhood. Then, we are providing easy meals to wild coyotes, inviting them into our areas and encouraging them to lose their natural fear of humans.”

Residents are reminded to follow simple precautions to prevent the threat of coyotes:

• Never leave pet food or trash outside where it will attract wildlife.

• Clear brush and dense weeds from around dwellings. This reduces cover for coyotes and their prey, such as rodents and other small animals.

• Protect children. Although rare, coyotes have been known to seriously injure children. Do not leave young children unattended, even in a backyard.

· Protect pets and livestock. These are favorite prey for coyotes. Keep pets indoors, especially at night. When not indoors, keep dogs and cats leashed at all times. There is a Redington Beach Ordinance that prohibits dogs or cats from roaming freely.

• Avoid walking dogs during dawn or dusk hours, which are coyotes’ normal feeding times.   Avoid using a retractable leash. Coyotes will notice a dog walked frequently on an extended leash. The coyote will come back, grab the dog, and leave the owner holding an empty leash. When walking a pet, carry a stick, whistle or air horn.

· Use negative reinforcement. Make sure the coyotes know that they are not welcome. Make loud noises, throw rocks in their direction or spray with a garden hose.

If you are experiencing conflicts with coyotes, contact your local FWC Regional Office in the Southwest Region at 863-648-3200.

Follow @MyFWC on Facebook for more wildlife information.

Images of coyotes and the logo from Pinellas County
Click here for coyote information

RESIDENTIAL TRASH REMOVAL

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Did you know that trash removal is NOT included in your taxes or your utility bill? Recently there have been several reports of the Town’s trash removal service “skipping” homes that have been receiving regular trash removal for many years. This is most likely due to non-payment. Residents must contact the Town’s trash removal company, Waste Connections, and establish an account to receive trash removal. The fee for this service is billed directly to residents. The Town is asking each resident to ensure that they are receiving a monthly bill from Waste Connections. If not, please call them at 727-572-6800 and establish an account to resume service.

PINELLAS COUNTY COVID-19 ORDINANCE STILL IN EFFECT

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County extends State of Local Emergency through Nov. 6

County News List

Oct. 30, 2020

Pinellas County has extended its State of Local Emergency for COVID-19 through Nov. 6. The extension was issued by County Administrator Barry A. Burton by delegated authority from the Board of County Commissioners.

The extension keeps in effect a County ordinance requiring face coverings within public places and restaurants and bars to serve only patrons who are seated. Public health officials continue to closely monitor the 7-day rolling averages for new COVID-19 cases, percentage of positive tests, hospitalizations and hospital bed capacity. 

The emergency declaration must be extended every seven days to remain in effect. 

  • Face coverings still required in indoor public places
  • Bar and restaurant customers must be seated to be served

A Pinellas County ordinance put in place to facilitate safe reopenings while slowing the spread of COVID-19 remains in effect Monday, following the announcement of Phase 3 of the state’s Safe, Smart, Step-by-Step phased plan Friday.

Executive Order 20-244, signed Friday by Governor DeSantis, does not impact the local ordinance Pinellas County adopted, including the face covering requirement for indoor facilities and that customers be seated to be served at a bar or restaurant.

While the governor’s order suspends the collection of fines and penalties associated with COVID-19 enforced upon individuals, it does not restrict counties and municipalities from enforcing rules on businesses.

Face Coverings

The countywide ordinance 20-14 took effect in June and remains in effect through the duration of Pinellas County’s State of Local Emergency.

The ordinance defines a face covering as a material that covers the nose and mouth and remains affixed or a face shield. A cloth face covering, or mask, may be factory-made or sewn by hand and can be improvised from clothing or other household fabric items.

  • Citizens must wear a face covering in indoor public places within Pinellas County, although the Board provided several exceptions. Among them:
    • The County ordinance mandate cannot conflict with the Americans with Disabilities Act.
    • The ordinance does not apply if a person is strictly adhering to social distancing and there are 10 or fewer people in the location who are also maintaining social distancing.
    • It does not apply to governmental entities such as schools, courthouses or city halls, although those entities are encouraged to develop procedures to protect employees and the public. 
    • If a person is under age 18, that person’s use of a face covering to comply with the ordinance is left to the discretion of that person’s parent, guardian or an accompanying adult. 
    • Religious rituals such as various forms of singing are permitted under the ordinance provided that social distancing is strictly maintained.
    • The ordinance does not prohibit exercising while social distancing, such as in a gym, without a face covering. 
    • Retail employees must wear face coverings unless working in an area of the business that is not open to the customers and has social distancing measures in place. 

Bars and Restaurants

Ordinance 20-14, passed by the Board of County Commissioners in June, has specific requirements for restaurants and bars that continue to be in effect in conjunction with the state’s limitations. The ordinance will remain in effect until the Board of County Commissioners repeals it or allows the county’s State of Local Emergency declaration to expire.

  • Patrons must be seated to be served drinks for on-site consumption.
  • Patrons must wear a face covering except when seated and consuming food or a drink and distanced six feet from other parties.
  • Employees must wear a face covering whether directly or indirectly preparing food or drinks, whether having customer contact or not, and whether indoors or outdoors. 
  • Tables/bar stools must be spaced so that individuals and their companion(s) are separated six feet from others. Tables are limited to 10 guests. 
  • Standing areas are not allowed. Patrons waiting to be seated must remain distanced in groups of no more than 10 people.
  • Bars and restaurants must establish rules that encourage social distancing, hand-washing and other protective measures based on CDC guidance.
  • Businesses are reminded that the ordinance does not affect their obligations under federal law, including the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Public Meetings

While the governor’s executive order Friday did not address public meetings, Executive Order 20-69, which authorized virtual meetings, is currently set to expire at 12:01 a.m. Oct. 1.

To read County ordinances and state orders, and access a wide array of COVID-19 information, visit https://covid19.pinellascounty.org/.

TROPICAL STORM LAURA

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NO EVACUATION ORDERS HAVE BEEN ISSUED.

SAND IS AVAILABLE AT FRIENDSHIP PARK, HOWEVER, BAGS ARE ONLY AVAILABLE AT TOWN HALL DURING REGULAR BUSINESS HOURS, 8AM-4PM MONDAY – FRIDAY.

PLEASE SIGN UP FOR ALERT PINELLAS TO RECEIVE EMERGENCY NOTIFICATIONS BY PHONE, TEXT OR EMAIL BY CLICKING THIS LINK: http://www.pinellascounty.org/alertpinellas/default.htm

Advice & Information for Residents