Bruce Rector

Archaeological researchers using ground-penetrating radar in 2020 identified about 70 possible graves. Later excavations confirmed that human remains were still present, contradicting earlier assurances that the cemetery had been cleared.

The Clearwater City Council voted to move forward with vacating portions of three public rights-of-way for the parking lot of a proposed $50 million entertainment center backed by the Church of Scientology.

“There’s pushback on any government spending right now," Clearwater Mayor Bruce Rector said.