Clearwater group opposed to Church of Scientology buying downtown street to share counter-proposal

Clearwater city leaders will consider a counter-proposal from Reconnect Clearwater opposing the Church of Scientology's bid to acquire part of South Garden Ave. The grassroots group plans to offer $1. 5 million to purchase the street, aiming to preserve public access and develop a park, contrasting with the church's $1. 375 million offer which includes plans to close the street for an auditorium and a park honoring L. Ron Hubbard.

Brooks Gibbs, the group's founder, criticized the church's intentions, advocating for a park that honors civic leaders instead. The church's ongoing negotiations with the city have raised concerns among some council members, including David Allbritton, who supports the church's vision for a livelier city. Mayor Bruce Rector has urged the church to provide more community benefits, given its ownership of over 200 properties in Clearwater, many of which remain vacant. The council will hear more about Reconnect Clearwater's proposal during a work session on Monday. A vote on the potential sale could take place as soon as Thursday.

The outcome of this debate may significantly impact the community's landscape and its historical preservation efforts.