PINELLAS COUNTY, Fla. — A busy Pinellas County county commission meeting Tuesday night included discussions on the Dr. Carter G. Woodson African American Museum funding issue and permit fees for residents rebuilding from storm damage.

Commissioners also heard from residents frustrated with short-term rentals in their neighborhoods and some of the ordinances governing the rentals.  

With the museum funding, commissioners discussed the $10 million in funding museum officials were hoping for but likely will not see. Those funds were part of the county’s tourist tax coffers and the application to secure the money was pulled before the meeting due to the uncertainty of the Tampa Bay Rays involvement in the Gas Plant District redevelopment.

"Speaking with the executive director and some of their board members, (and) not knowing the certainty of which direction the Rays will go,” said Commissioner Renee Flowers of the funding hesitancy. “And the construction of the new development and rehabilitation of the Gas Plant District hinges on whether or not the Rays actually come to the table and close out everything.”

The Rays have until the end of March to come through with upholding their end of the stadium and Gas Plant deal.

Meanwhile, during the same busy meeting, commissioners approved waiving permit fees for Helene and Milton repairs.

It's meant to help residents living in unincorporated areas of Pinellas, including Belleair Beach, Belleair Bluffs and Belleair Shores, Indian Rocks beach, Oldsmar, Kenneth City and Safety Harbor.

Permit fees would be waived for any application or inspection fee for permits submitted between Sept. 27, 2024 and June 1, 2025.

WATCH TUESDAY'S COMMISSION MEETING: