Scientology seeks additional land in Clearwater, but some residents propose alternative plans for the area.

A grassroots initiative aimed at preserving African American history in Clearwater has garnered significant public support, as well as some opposition, in anticipation of a pivotal City Council vote. Named #SaveTheGarden, this movement is mobilizing local residents to advocate for the preservation of a segment of South Garden Avenue, which is currently slated for sale to the Church of Scientology.

The proposal seeks to transform this city-owned land—positioned between Franklin and Court streets—into a green space that would feature historical displays and function as a catalyst for a mile-long walking tour celebrating Clearwater’s African American heritage. This initiative is being spearheaded by Reconnect Clearwater, a nonprofit organization formed expressly for this purpose.

In March 2025, the Clearwater City Council voted to advance plans put forth by the Church of Scientology for the acquisition of this land to create a plaza. This area, while small and featuring some parking spaces, is a daily thoroughfare for some residents, although others have deemed it a traffic nuisance.

Barbara Sorey-Love, the president of the Clearwater African American Foundation, has championed the idea of using the property to pay homage to the local Black community. Brooks Gibbs, leader of a local investment committee, joined Sorey-Love in promoting her vision after learning of the land’s potential sale from a local news report. They presented their proposal to the City Council in April, leading to a delay in the decision-making process.

In a recent demonstration, nearly 100 advocates from the Save the Garden coalition gathered to raise awareness and pray for the success of their initiative ahead of the City Council’s impending vote. The council has previously met with representatives from the Church of Scientology, who have shared broader revitalization plans for downtown Clearwater, yet many residents express concerns regarding transparency in the church’s intentions.

During a City Council work session, the Church of Scientology’s external affairs director presented a video detailing its vision for revitalizing the downtown area, though little information was provided regarding the Garden Avenue project itself. Observations from City Council member David Allbritton, who initially supported the Scientology proposal, reflect growing skepticism regarding the church’s commitment to revitalization as promised.

The Save the Garden project has evolved since its inception, now rebranded as The Garden Memorial. It aims to honor African American figures from Clearwater’s history through an interactive walking tour instead of the originally proposed fenced park named after Mack Dixon Sr., a prominent African American leader whose family expressed concerns about his legacy being used to contest the church’s plans.

Notably, local discussions surrounding the proposal have also highlighted a broader conversation about the needs of Clearwater’s African American community, with various leaders arguing that efforts and resources may be better focused on addressing longstanding issues, such as the city’s treatment of the historic African American cemetery or the renovation of the Martin Luther King Jr. Neighborhood Center.

As the City Council prepares to deliberate on the impending vote, members have increasingly questioned the appropriateness of locating a memorial downtown and the community’s involvement in the Save the Garden initiative. Despite the scrutiny, coalition leaders remain steadfast in their commitment to honor the African American history within Clearwater, asserting that their mission is to ensure that this vital aspect of the city’s heritage is recognized prominently.

The impending decision holds significant implications not only for the future of the proposed memorial but also for the ongoing dialogue regarding community engagement and historical acknowledgment within Clearwater.