City of Clearwater – City Council Candidate Forum - 6/23/2026

This transcript is from a City Council Candidate Forum held by the City of Clearwater on June 23, 2026, featuring candidates vying for seats four and five in the upcoming August 18th election. The forum covered a range of local issues including utility costs and the potential separation from Duke Energy, government transparency and accountability, the role of Scientology in downtown development, property tax changes, affordable housing initiatives, hurricane recovery efforts, and the future use of county-owned parcels within the city. Candidates discussed fiscal responsibility, infrastructure projects such as a $48 million beach marina and a $39 million parking garage, and the importance of balancing development with preserving green space. Several candidates emphasized the need for transparent communication with residents and cautious negotiation with Duke Energy regarding utility services. The forum also touched on economic development challenges, including the impact of referendums on city property sales and the activation of downtown Clearwater. No specific contract awards or procurement decisions were made during this meeting, but the discussions highlighted key budgetary and development priorities that could influence future city procurement and contracting activities.