Pinellas County commissioners heard public feedback Wednesday night on plans to vacate and redevelop nearly 25 acres of county-owned property in downtown Clearwater.
The county is consolidating 17 properties in downtown Clearwater into a single facility near US 19 and Ulmerton Road, citing the existing buildings as old and oversized. Officials estimate the move will save $150 million in maintenance costs over the next 50 years.
The town hall drew a packed crowd, with residents raising two main concerns: historic preservation and the prospect of Scientology acquiring the vacated properties.
Allison Dolan of the Pinellas County Historic Preservation Board attended to ensure her board has a seat at the table, noting that the Pinellas County Courthouse is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. She expressed concern that architectural details unique to the historic structure would be lost if the building were replaced.
Several audience members raised concerns that Scientology — which already owns significant property in downtown Clearwater — could purchase the vacated sites. Commissioner Chris Latvala said the Board of County Commissioners will consider proposals from a wide range of developers, with the final decision resting with the board. He added that as a Clearwater resident himself, he wants an outcome the community can be proud of for decades to come. Latvala also said the courthouse could be repurposed, but will remain in place.
Many residents expressed hope that redevelopment would bring more life to the area. Dolan noted that the existing buildings sit largely empty on evenings and weekends, and said activating that space would benefit the community.
The Board of County Commissioners is scheduled to discuss the matter at their regular meeting today. The county plans to issue a request for negotiations with developers in June 2026, with an additional public town hall planned for early 2027. A final decision is not expected for more than a year.
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