Forward Pinellas continues talks on regional MPO merger; Feb. 13 TMA meeting set to discuss governance options

Forward Pinellas staff updated the board on continued work toward a possible regional metropolitan planning organization merger involving Pinellas, Pasco and Hillsborough counties and set a Feb. 13 TMA Leadership Group meeting in Tampa to present governance options.

Executive Director Whit Planton said the Suncoast Transportation Planning Alliance has developed regional priorities and a cost‑benefit analysis tool and that staff plan to present options for governing-board composition, the role of transit providers, and small-city representation at the Feb. 13 meeting. Planton said he expects county commissions and the Tampa City Council may be asked to take a nonbinding vote as early as April to indicate whether to advance the merger concept into more detailed planning.

Board members raised several concerns during discussion: Commissioner Mike Menino and others said Hillsborough County participation has been limited in earlier workshops and that trust-building among jurisdictions will be essential; several members stressed ensuring a clear role and voice for Pinellas’ many small cities. Members suggested workshops and informal convenings to build relationships before formal structure is adopted.

Staff said the merger process is intended to be iterative: if local elected officials support advancing it in spring votes, staff would move into details about legislation and special-act changes; if not, Forward Pinellas would pivot to strengthening regional coordination. Staff also proposed keeping Forward Pinellas or the Pinellas Planning Council as a formal advisory committee to a regional MPO to preserve a local land‑use voice.

The board was advised to keep Feb. 13 on calendars for the TMA Leadership Group meeting at the Tampa Hillsborough County Expressway Authority; staff will circulate invitations and materials in advance.