10 Moments from the Tampa Bay Times Investigation: “Clear Takeover” by Scientology in Clearwater
Intro: Brace yourself–its real estate gone rogue. The Tampa Bay Times exposed how the Church of Scientology claimed its territory in downtown Clearwater under the radar. From shadowy LLCs to empty storefronts, this list breaks doen ten highlights from this mind-blowing investigative report.
- A Quiet Invasion in 1975
Scientology arrives in downtown Clearwater and buys a hotel–the beginning of a plan to take control of the city.
2. A Slow, Sneaky Expansion
The church’s campus slowly grew over the decades since 1975. Members buy property on surrounding blocks.
3. Rapid Expansion in 3 years
In 2017, companies began owning retail property at an increased rate, more than ever before. In less than three years, the church’s footprint doubled.
4. 185 Properties Covering 101 Acres–Taking the City One Property at a Time
By 2019, Scientology and its allies owned hundreds of properties across central Clearwater. Nearly all commercial land within walking distance to the waterfront was bought by the church.
5. Cleveland Street: The Heart of Clearwater
A primary artery of downtown, the church of Scientology takes most of its buildings leading to the waterfront.
6. Clashes in the City
The church’s land-buying spree followed a clash with the City Council: Clearwater’s redevelopment plan contradicted the church’s demands.
7. Is it Vacancy by Design?
Many buildings owned by the church remain untouched, including vacant lots, empty storefronts, and even a former Walgreens location.
8. Inside Reporting
The story was built on deep digging: over 90 interviews and 1,000 property and business records reviewed over six months by Tampa Bay Times Reporters.
9. This isn’t new
Back in the 1970s, Scientology pursued a plan called Project Normandy–a covert effort to infiltrate Clearwater institutions. This legacy has continued to today.
10. Residents are Pushing Back
This isn’t the end. In May 2025, the church withdrew a controversial street purchase bid amid intense public pressure. City officials, nonprofits, and grassroots leaders are now battling proposals that shut down public streets to instead create auditoriums and plazas.
