Here are some of the highlights from this week’s Birmingham City Council Meeting

ITEM 29

The Birmingham City Council approved an agreement with the Offender’s Alumni Association for the Peace On The Block Initiative.

Council President Pro Tem LaTonya Tate and Councilor Crystal Smitherman both contributed discretionary funds to host this event, which is entering its third year.

The goal is to bring together families, community organizations, and local leaders to promote healing and unity while connecting them to essential resources within the community. This will take place on Saturday, August 1, 2026, at the intersection of Tuscaloosa Avenue and 12th Street SW.

“I had the privilege of traveling to Newark, New Jersey, in 2023 to learn about their approach to violence reduction and restorative justice,” Councilor Tate said. “We saw how they would bring these resources to the community by hosting block parties like this. A lot of people might not have access to transportation, so bringing these partners to residents and building up those relationships has a huge impact.”

Councilor Smitherman believes this approach has helped connect residents with organizations and resources they might not have otherwise. “This current Council has really focused on the overall well-being of our neighborhoods and not just addressing issues with more police,” Councilor Smitherman said. “Things like food insecurity, workforce development opportunities, mental health assistance — all of these play a role in stabilizing communities.”

ITEM 40

A public hearing has been set for Tuesday, August 25th, at 9:30 a.m. to consider a rezoning case for a potential boutique hotel development in the Redmont neighborhood.

In addition to 80 hotel rooms, there would be approximately 15 condominium units on the top floors of the building, according to the developer. The property is currently zoned Mixed Use Medium; the applicant is requesting a rezoning to Qualified Mixed Use High in order to allow for a building height of up to 125 feet.

Councilor Darrell O’Quinn, who co-chairs the Planning and Zoning Committee, encouraged anyone interested in this rezoning case to attend the hearing. “This particular project, if you’re coming down the Red Mountain Expressway, there are two large residential buildings that kind of frame Sloss Furnaces in the background. This proposed development would be on the eastern side of the expressway, near those two existing buildings. We’ve had a lot of discussion about this case, so for anyone interested, the time to submit public comment will be at the August 25th City Council meeting.”

The Planning and Zoning Committee recommended approval of this rezoning case 3–1 during the July 14th meeting.

ITEM 32

The Council appropriated funding for the Northside Spark Project, which involves right-of-way improvements in three of Birmingham’s historic neighborhoods — Fountain Heights, Druid Hills and Norwood.

The goal of this initiative is to increase walkability and connect the neighborhoods with recent developments and future investments being made in the area.

The $239,929 in funding will be utilized by the Community Foundation of Greater Birmingham to accomplish these goals and mitigate the impacts of the I-20/59 redevelopment on the surrounding neighborhoods.

“Investing in neighborhood infrastructure and improving the quality of life for our residents is one of the smartest moves we can make as city leaders,” District 4 Councilor Brian Gunn said. “With significant redevelopment already underway and more on the horizon, our primary focus is ensuring locals have safe, seamless access to these new amenities and the broader community.”

ITEM 33

The Council approved an interlocal agreement under which the Offender Alumni Association will continue their work with the Jefferson County Board of Health for the Hospital-linked Violence Intervention Program.

According to the agreement, the $1.15 million will facilitate case management, education, employment support, housing, food, utility, and transportation services to program participants.

The program targets residents aged 19 to 39 who are recovering from non-self-inflicted gunshot wounds. The intervention begins right at the bedside, where staff from UAB’s Division of Trauma and Acute Care Surgery identify willing patients and refer them directly to the HVIP.

Once a patient is connected to the program, specialized OAA outreach workers and “violence interrupters” step in to work with both the victims and their families, focusing on defusing immediate tensions and preventing retaliatory violence. To help permanently break the cycle of violence, the initiative also provides long-term support by linking survivors to vital resources like mental health care, housing assistance, and job training.

Since it began, the program has assisted more than 250 individuals, achieving success rates in preventing retaliation and re-injury that surpass national standards for similar hospital-based initiatives.

Council President LaTonya Tate said this program has played a pivotal role in reducing violent crime and preventing cycles of violence.

“When you continue to invest in community-based organizations like the Offenders Alumni Association, this partnership has shown us what’s possible when we work in collaboration. There has been essentially zero recidivism with individuals who have completed this program,” Councilor Tate said. “We’ve reframed gun violence as a public health crisis. We’re down 73 percent in homicides from this time last year, and I think connecting community-based organizations to resources is a big reason for that.”

ITEM 40

The Council approved a resolution allowing the mayor to apply, submit and accept all grant funds appropriated by the Alabama Legislature FY2027 (ACT #2026- 383), to support the City Walk Maintenance.

The 31-acre linear park, which stretches 10 city blocks, has become one of Birmingham’s most recognizable and heavily utilized spaces. Next month, City Walk will host the FISE World Series — an extreme sports competition — which is expected to draw upwards of 40,000 attendees.

While the State of Alabama retains ownership of the property, the BJCC has been managing the daily operations and upkeep. Council President Wardine Alexander said this state funding is crucial for the ongoing success and vibrancy of one of America’s most unique urban spaces.

“We’re lucky to have this amazing promenade that connects so many different points of interest and attractions. We’ve made a lot of investments into making our city a destination, and this space is a huge part of that,” Council President Wardine Alexander said. “This is an asset, and it’s in the best interest of the entire metro area that we continue to maintain and improve this space.”

ITEM 42

The Council approved $2.6 million in grant funds from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for the floodplain restoration of Village Creek.

Birmingham has historically struggled with severe, chronic flooding caused by Village Creek and other local waterways.

This long-term strategy transforms vulnerable areas into permanent, natural public spaces like W.C. Patton Park and the Village Creek Linear Park. This new investment will actively restore the natural floodplain, further protecting the region from the devastating effects of extreme weather.

The State of Alabama received $17 million as part of this Pre-Disaster Mitigation program, with Village Creek receiving the second largest grant allocation.

“Whenever we can secure a significant federal investment for our local infrastructure, I consider that a big win for our community,” Council President Pro Tem LaTonya Tate said. “This funding will help us address a long-standing challenge with flooding. Implementing up-to-date flood mitigation strategies and infrastructure is essential for public safety, and I look forward to working with our local officials to ensure these resources are deployed effectively.”

THIS WEEKEND: Councilor Sonja Smith partnering with Flourish Alabama for Block and Bloom Festival

On Saturday, July 18th, District 8 Birmingham City Councilor Sonja Smith is partnering with The Flourish Alabama for the Block and Bloom Festival in downtown Ensley.

This installment of the Safe Summer Concert series is free and open to the public and will feature live music, art exhibits, food vendors, local businesses, interactive workshops, family activities, and experiences for all ages.

The festivities will start at 2 p.m. and will go until 9 p.m. at 602 19th Street in Ensley. Attendees are encouraged to bring chairs and coolers. Pets are welcomed.

We invite the community to join this summer celebration and experience all that the local arts scene has to offer. The Flourish has played a big part in cultivating the Black Arts District in the Ensley neighborhood through workshops, exhibits, and events like Block and Bloom.

The two headlining artists are Dear Silas and 8Ball and MJG. Throughout the day, there will be DJ performances, workshops, dancing lessons, and more at three separate areas (see full details below).

“For this event we really wanted to create a space that highlights the talent and beauty that’s made Ensley a hub for artists over the years,” Councilor Smith said. “I’m thrilled to be able to partner with The Flourish who has done amazing work in this space and has helped local artists find opportunities to grow. Past, present, and future, Ensley is the heart of this side of town and we are excited to be able to celebrate this historic district with Block and Bloom.”

Here is a full list of the events planned for Block and Bloom this Saturday:

ITEM 1

The Birmingham City Council voted to approve amendments to the City’s zoning code, which adds regulations, definitions, and protections around data center developments.

Here are some key points:

These amendments have established formal definitions and regulatory framework for hyperscale data centers, as well as for smaller-scale facilities. Recognizing the rapid national growth of these developments, this ordinance sets a new regional benchmark.

By integrating 20 specific conditions — including strict requirements for energy usage, water consumption, setbacks, and site buffering — the City is ensuring that large-scale infrastructure growth is held to the highest possible standards for our community.

These regulations would prohibit data centers from using gas turbines or 24/7 diesel generators to provide on-site power. They also require these facilities to utilize closed-loop cooling systems to drastically minimize water usage.

New hyper-scale facilities are now limited to I-1, I-2, I-3 and MXD Use Group C-3 (industrial and commercial) zones.

Companies will be required to provide details on total annual water use, identify the water source along with a water conservation and efficiency plan, and show that water usage capacity exists pre-development. No illicit discharge is permitted into the City’s system per Chapter 4 of the City Code.

If a new hyperscale development does not meet all 20 requirements, the company would have to apply for a variance, which would trigger a hearing with the Zoning Board of Adjustments.

Tuesday’s vote was not an approval of a specific project. It was a vote to put zoning regulations and restrictions in place for data center projects.

The entire ordinance can be reviewed here: https://www.birminghamal.gov/datacenters

The Council approved a number of educational programing items utilizing discretionary funds. Many of these are focused on youth and workforce development. Here are some of those items:

ITEM 18: Birmingham Botanical Society

• Purpose: Community-based educational workshops and exhibits for families.
• Amount: Up to $20,000
• Funding Source: District 3 Discretionary funds.

ITEM 20: Exposure Community Development

• Purpose: Free music classes for young people to promote academic and social-emotional growth.
• Amount: Up to $500
• Funding Source: District 8 Discretionary funds.

ITEM 21: The Files Arts Project

• Purpose: Arts training, mentorship, and performance opportunities (dance/movement) for youth.
• Amount: Up to $1,000
• Funding Source: District 8 Discretionary funds.

ITEM 23: Jones Valley Teaching Farm (JVTF)

• Purpose: Community-based educational workshops using food as a foundation for healthy living.
• Amount: Up to $50,000
• Funding Source: Districts 3 and 4 Discretionary funds.

ITEM 24: Never Go Broke, Inc.

• Purpose: Financial management workshops and real-world simulations for students.
• Amount: Up to $500
• Funding Source: District 8 Discretionary funds.

ITEM 1

The Council voted to deny a rezoning request for a boutique antique store on Clairmont Avenue.

The request was for a residential building to be rezoned to a Qualified Mixed-Use Low District. During the public hearing, the Council heard from the applicant, city officials and a neighborhood resident.

Concerns were raised over future uses if the property were to be rezoned.

Councilor Josh Vasa, Co-Chair of the Planning and Zoning Committee, said these kinds of discussions are a valuable part of the process.

“When the Council is considering these rezoning cases, we rely heavily on the input of the community and their concerns,” Councilor Vasa said. “These decisions are a vital part of effective city planning and keeping the character of our communities intact. I’d urge everyone to take an interest in their Neighborhood Association meetings, that is the entry point for getting involved with these matters, especially as it relates to zoning cases.”

ITEM 14

The Council voted to amend an agreement with Toolbank USA to extend the services until Septemeber 30, 2026.

The Magic City ToolBank helps Birmingham’s nonprofits, schools, and neighborhood groups tackle service projects without the heavy burden of tool ownership. By lending a vast inventory of equipment at a minimal cost, they remove the financial and logistical roadblocks that often stall community maintenance, repairs, and infrastructure improvements.

This was one of the first programs that multiple Councilors identified for use of their office’s ARPA funding.

How it works:

New organizations must complete a membership application to verify their nonprofit status and create an account.

Orders are placed through an online system. The organization recommends submitting requests at least 48 hours before the desired pickup time.

Once a staff member confirms the order and payment, the tools are prepared for pickup at their warehouse located at 222 6th Avenue SW, Birmingham, AL.

“I want to express my continued excitement about this program and how we’ve seen it grow over the years,” Council President Wardine Alexander said. “A lot of my colleagues have partnered together to make this possible with ARPA funds. It was something we thought could have the most impact with this federal funding because it puts resources directly into residents’ hands.”

Gun Violence Awareness Month

This morning, Council President Pro Tem LaTonya Tate joined leaders from the Jefferson County Department of Health, Mayor Randall Woodfin, Offenders Alumni Association, and other community-based organizations in observance of Gun Violence Awareness Month.

The “Wear Orange” movement is a central component of this awareness month. It was inspired by the life of Hadiya Pendleton, a 15-year-old student who was shot and killed on a playground in Chicago in 2013, just one week after marching in President Obama’s second inaugural parade.

Throughout June, activists, survivors, and community partners participate in various events — such as beautification projects, rallies, and educational initiatives — in remembrance and to elevate voices of those who have been impacted by gun violence.

“We must recognize that this is a public health crisis and approach with solutions that are grounded in healing and interrupting the cycles of violence,” Councilor LaTonya Tate said. “Real, lasting change will not come from top-down mandates alone; it happens when we listen to the people closest to the problem and empower the community-based organizations that are doing the hard work on the ground every single day. I’m proud to stand alongside all these change-makers here today in solidarity.”

FY 2027 Budget Proposal

The Council has been presented the proposed FY 2027 Operating Budget, totaling $615 million.

You can review the proposed FY 2027 Budget here: https://www.birminghamal.gov/budget2027

Some of the high points include, $19 million to support initiatives aimed at revitalizing local neighborhoods:

$12 million for street resurfacing
$3 million for weed abatement
$1.5 million for demolition and blight removal
$1.53 million for critical home repairs
$500,000 for traffic calming
$300,000 for recycling
$200,000 for the Façade Improvement Program

Notable Cradle-to-Career investments include:

$2 million for the Birmingham Promise
$1 million for mental health support in Birmingham City Schools
$1 million for financial literacy curriculum in Birmingham City Schools
$1 million for Common Ground conflict resolution programming

Funding for services supporting unhoused residents and community violence intervention programs are increasing by $1.5 million each, bringing the total for both programs to $3 million.

“The Mayor’s proposed $615 million budget offers a strong blueprint for neighborhood revitalization and youth support, particularly through continued investments in the Birmingham Promise, mental health resources and conflict resolution programming,” Council President Wardine Alexander said. “However, this proposal is just the starting point for the Council. As the legislative body, our responsibility is to thoroughly review these numbers, engage directly with our constituents and work constructively with the administration. I look forward to collaborating throughout the public hearing process to ensure the final budget truly prioritizes equity and puts our residents first.”

In March, the Council approved $32 million in surplus funding that reinvested back into citywide infrastructure projects, historical preservation, park improvements, youth-focused workforce development, and more.

ITEM 20

The Council approved a $50,350 agreement with HouseProud to continue housing rehabilitation services in District 6. The project is funded by American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) dollars allocated to Councilor Crystal Smitherman’s office.

For 20 years, HouseProud has rehabilitated homes across the Atlanta area, expanding into Birmingham in 2024 through partnerships with several City Council offices. The program helps senior and low- to moderate-income homeowners with critical minor repairs and exterior maintenance. This support allows residents to stay safely in their homes while improving neighborhood stability and curb appeal.

According to Councilors, this investment underscores the City’s ongoing dedication to supporting aging residents, protecting homeownership, and revitalizing Birmingham’s communities.

“Preserving our neighborhoods starts with protecting our people,” Councilor Smitherman said. “Having partnered with HouseProud over the last year, I’ve seen firsthand the incredible work they do for our seniors and working families. This investment will have a huge impact on our residents’ lives and the overall vibrancy of our community.”

ITEMs 24–85

The Council approved 62 demolitions of unsafe structures across the city on Tuesday.

This is an issue that impacts all 99 neighborhoods. If you know of an abandoned property that is posing a threat to public safety, here is a step-by-step guide on how the Condemnation and Demolition Process works.

1) Confirm Eligibility

• The property must be completely vacant.
• Note: If a dilapidated home is currently occupied, it cannot go through this process and must be handled through the Housing Authority Birmingham District.

2) Report the Property

• Call 311 or use the My Bham 311 app to formally report the abandoned, unsecured, or derelict property to the city.

3) Field Survey and Inspection

• The city will dispatch a code enforcement inspector to the property to conduct a field survey.
• The inspector will enter the structure to evaluate its condition.

4) Evaluation and “Tagging”

The building will be “tagged” if it meets either of the following criteria:

• It poses an immediate threat to public health or safety (e.g., obvious structural failure, a collapsed roof, a crumbling façade, or being un-secure to the point of creating a fire hazard).
• Over 70% of the structure is damaged or deteriorated.

5) Notice Requirement

• Because these structures are located on private property, the City has to go through a legal process before demolition can move forward.
• A title search is conducted to find and contact whoever has the title to the property.
• The owner is sent a “30-day letter” that notifies them that their structure has been tagged a nuisance property and if they do not take corrective action within 30 days, the city will proceed with formal condemnation.
• Within this time frame, typically the structure must see at least a 50 percent improvement, but the Planning and Engineering Department will grant 30-day extensions if an earnest effort if being put forth. A repair permit can be voided if no significant improvements are being made.
• If there is no response to the “30-day letter” the home is then placed on the City Council agenda for demolition.

For over 100 years, Birmingham’s inland port has quietly shaped the city’s regional economic influence. Once a major supply artery for the U.S. Steel Ensley Works facility, the port is now connecting cargo shipments from Mobile to the Class I rail lines that converge here.

On Tuesday, the Birmingham City Council approved an application for the Port Infrastructure Development Program (PIDP) Grant, provided by the United States Department of Transportation Maritime Administration. The $30 million grant would be used to improve the safety, efficiency, and reliability of the movement of goods.

Councilor Hunter Williams, chair of the Economic Development and Tourism Committee, detailed the significance of this effort.

“Most people don’t know that Birmingham has an inland port. It’s one of our biggest assets that I think traditionally has been utilized, but perhaps underutilized,” Councilor Williams said. “This funding would go toward deepening and modernizing the port, which has direct access to our rail system. We know that when we have different kinds of development projects happening in our state, a lot of those second- and third-tier suppliers come to Birmingham because of the rail and interstate access. So improving the port’s capabilities is another vital piece of that.”

Other proposed improvements to the port include:

• Rail connectivity upgrades
• Expanded cargo-handling systems
• Heavy-lift crane improvements
• Road and truck access enhancements
• Environmental and sustainability projects

The port’s newly completed 25,000-square-foot climate-controlled warehouse represents one of the most significant upgrades in Birmingport’s 100-year history, expanding its ability to handle high-value industrial cargo in today’s supply chain economy.

Earlier this year Birmingham was awarded a $2 million SEEDS Act grant to advance redevelopment in the western industrial corridor, including infrastructure and improvement projects connected to Birmingport and adjacent industrial land. This first phase will focus on creating a master plan and conducting environmental studies for about 500 acres at the former U.S. Steel Ensley Works site, as well as improving the Birmingport facility.

The port currently handles commodities such as:

• Steel coils and slabs
• Coal and aggregates
• Project cargo
• Liquid chemicals
• Bulk materials

The transportation and logistics company, Watco, which currently operates the port, has agreed to pay the local match portion if the grant application is successful.

ITEM 3

The Council approved a $250,000 grant from the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs to assist with maintenance and upkeep costs at City Walk.

The 31-acre linear park, which stretches 10 city blocks, has become one of Birmingham’s most recognizable and heavily utilized spaces. Later this year, City Walk will host the FISE World Series — an extreme sports competition — which is expected to draw upwards of 40,000 attendees.

While the State of Alabama retains ownership of the property, the BJCC has been managing the daily operations and upkeep.

Council President Wardine Alexander said it’s crucial for the City to contribute to the ongoing success and vibrancy of one of America’s most unique urban spaces.

“We’re lucky to have this amazing promenade that connects so many different points of interest and attractions. We’ve made a lot of investments into making our city a destination, and this space is a huge part of that,” Council President Wardine Alexander said. “This is an asset, and it’s in the best interest of the entire metro area that we continue to maintain and improve this space.”

ITEMS 4 & 5

The Council voted to ratify an agreement between the City of Birmingham, the City of Trussville and Norfolk Southern Railway Company to improve rail safety.

The City of Birmingham and the City of Trussville each will be responsible for 2.5 percent of the cost of the project ($250,000 each), and Norfolk Southern Railway Company will be responsible for 15 percent of the cost of the project, which equals $1.5 million.

In 2022, the City was awarded an $8 million federal Consolidated Rail and Infrastructure Safety and Improvements (CRISI) Grant to close at-grade railroad crossings and alleviate blocked crossings from the Woodlawn neighborhood and into Trussville.

Perhaps most notably, this agreement will fund the feasibility study and design phase of the project to fix the dangerous rail hazards in the Harris Homes Public Housing Community.

Residents in this area have navigated trains blocking both entrances to the housing community, completely encircling their homes, every 7 to 10 days for more than 50 years.

Norfolk Southern, which owns the rail corridor in question, has been a tremendous partner in moving this initiative forward and will be committing $1.5 million in funding to this initial planning and engineering grant.

It’s the largest financial commitment the company has ever made to a project of this type.

Councilor Darrell O’Quinn, Chair of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, said this is a crucial step in the years-long process.

“This is an opportunity to drastically improve the quality of life for so many of my neighbors,” Councilor O’Quinn said. “I’d like to take a moment and thank our partners at Norfolk Southern, who own the rail corridor in question. My office has remained in close contact with their representatives over the last several years, and we could not have gotten to this point without their dedication to improve the lives of those living near their tracks. Today is a very important step towards getting relief for the residents living in Harris Homes.”

ITEM 31

The Council voted to rescind the amendments that were made to the “Kelvyn Felder Ordinance,” which aims to improve public safety at Birmingham’s nighttime establishments.

This past week, Councilors have received feedback from business owners, community members and the administration.

Council President Wardine Alexander said these changes were made with one goal in mind: creating a safer, more accountable nightlife environment in Birmingham.

“The intent was never to place unnecessary burdens on responsible small business owners who contribute every day to the culture and economic vitality of our city,” Council President Alexander said. “We’ve heard and recognize the concerns raised by the community. Our focus remains on addressing recurring safety and accountability issues that have put the public at risk. We understand this must be done in a way that balances public safety with opportunities for local businesses to thrive.”

The ordinance will be brought back through the Public Safety Committee for further discussion and amendments.

ITEM 32

The Council voted to set a public hearing for Tuesday, June 9th, at 9:30 a.m. at City Hall to discuss the proposed changes to the city’s zoning ordinance to define and place zoning restrictions on new data center developments.

During the April 28th meeting, the Council held a public hearing on the proposed amendments, and the legislative body delayed the item for two weeks.

Today’s action by the Council regarding the proposed zoning ordinance amendments — Item 1 on the agenda — was taken to fulfill a procedural requirement following the previous vote to delay the item.

“Throughout this process, residents have taken the time to share their perspectives on these developments,” Council President Alexander said. “It is important that we ensure those concerns are meaningfully incorporated into the final framework of the ordinance, which will be discussed during the June 9 public hearing. Our goal moving forward is to keep residents informed about the proposed updates, what they could mean for future projects, and how these safeguards are intended to better protect residential neighborhoods.”

ITEM 1

On Tuesday, the Council approved the Eastern Framework Rezoning Plan, capping off a years-long process. Earlier this month, the Northside-Southside Plan was approved unanimously.

This is a community-level planning initiative across several communities, including Woodlawn, East Birmingham, East Lake, and Airport Hills. Most notably, this rezoning plan seeks to downzone existing industrial sites that are no longer in use to allow for more development opportunities.

Developed under the City of Birmingham’s 2013 Comprehensive Plan, the framework translates citywide goals into localized strategies for land use, housing, transportation, economic development, and public space.

Some of the key strategies include reinvesting in historic neighborhoods, repurposing abandoned and publicly owned properties, expanding workforce and minority business development, improving access to parks and trails, and advancing sidewalk, streetscape, and stormwater upgrades.

Councilor Josh Vasa, who co-chairs the Planning and Zoning Committee, spoke to the benefits of downzoning and how prioritizing Urban Neighborhood Districts along transit corridors will benefit neighborhoods.

“Nothing was ‘upzoned’ in this process, meaning we aren’t bringing in new designations for heavy industry. Instead, we’re taking those previously zoned commercial and industrial areas and zoning them in a way that will benefit the surrounding areas,” Councilor Vasa said. “We want to see more transit-oriented development. Where there are people, there will be transit lines, shops, and growth. So from a planning and zoning standpoint, that’s one of the main focuses we had during this process, and I think this plan does a great job of accomplishing that to spur sustainable growth along those corridors.”

Birmingham Children and Youth Commission

Yesterday, Mayor Randall Woodfin and BCS leadership announced the Birmingham Children and Youth Commission.

Why is this important? Only six percent of Birmingham students who are born into poverty attain high-paying careers in their lifetimes. This is our commitment to change that by aligning around a shared vision to improve economic mobility for every single student in Birmingham. A zip code should not determine your future.

This commission will develop a structured blueprint for how Birmingham will invest in our children, starting at the neighborhood level. This public report will be presented in July. This isn’t just another report that will collect dust on a shelf — it will stand as our organizing principle for how we as a city invest in education moving forward.

This commission is bringing together leaders from education, community organizations, philanthropic groups, faith communities, business leaders, and elected officials. The goal is simple: build on the success we’ve seen, scale up, and create a true cradle-to-career system so that every child has the opportunity to become the best version of themselves.

Council President Wardine Alexander is one of the members of the commission, which convened its first meeting following the press conference on Monday.

“The fact that 14 schools have come off the state’s failing list this year is the result of focused effort and belief in our students,” Council President Alexander said. “This commission is about taking that momentum and turning it into something lasting. We know the challenges our children face don’t begin and end in the classroom, which is why this initiative matters. It’s about connecting the dots between education, community, and opportunity so that success isn’t limited to a handful of schools, but becomes the expectation across every neighborhood.”

ITEM 1

The Council approved a permit for a new indoor nonhazardous medical waste treatment and paper shredding facility.

The facility is located at 4400 7th Avenue South in the Kingston community. During the public hearing last week, neighborhood leaders spoke in favor of the new business, which would occupy a former industrial site.

The company will not be treating any hazardous waste at the facility; rather, it will be used for shredding personal protective equipment, medical documents, and other supplies used by local hospitals.

In 2017, the State Legislature separated the process for permitting new solid waste facilities (from Sec. 22–27–48, creating Sec. 22–27–48.1), meaning this is the first time a new solid waste facility application has come before the Council since the change in the law (though some landfill modifications have been processed under the original section).

Councilor Brian Gunn, who represents the neighborhood, said he has appreciated the applicant’s community outreach efforts and willingness to work with community leaders.

“They have really done a great job of reaching out to community members, getting to know them, and addressing concerns they might have about their company. I’d encourage every business looking to locate in the city to do the same,” Councilor Gunn said. “I think this will be a big benefit for the Kingston community, especially since there is a focus on hiring locally. They’ve even spoken about a community benefits agreement, which really speaks to their commitment to being an asset for the surrounding neighborhoods.”

ITEM 3

The Birmingham City Council approved $347,115 for the Village Creek Linear Walking Trail, which is part of the larger Red Rock Trail System that is being built out.

The project converts an inactive rail corridor into a multi-use trail, with approximately 4.5 miles planned, helping to connect communities across west Birmingham while also serving as an important segment of the larger 36-mile loop.

Councilor Sonja Smith, who represents the area, said this is a way for residents to have access to nature and connect to resources without having to navigate roadways.

“We all know the benefits of living a healthy lifestyle and getting exercise,” Councilor Smith said. “Being able to have an asset like this in the community really helps improve the quality of life and public safety for people who want to exercise. Long, continuous paths like this allow people to tailor their experience to their needs.”

Here is an interactive map detailing the Red Rock Trail System.

ITEM 6

The Council approved an agreement for the release of reversionary interest with Jefferson County, which is a necessary step to begin construction on a senior living and early learning development at the former Graymont School property.

Under the agreement, the City will pay Jefferson County the sum of $790,000, which equals the fair market value of Jefferson County’s 50 percent interest in the property.

This project will complement the $50 million CHOICE Neighborhood Grant that was awarded to the Smithfield community in 2023.

The City has previously approved $3.5 million in American Rescue Plan Act funding to fill the financial gap and make the project feasible.

According to City officials, the façade of the historic Graymont School will largely remain untouched, with the exception of ADA-compliant improvements and ingress/egress points.

The primary goal of the CHOICE Neighborhoods Initiative is to address the challenges faced by distressed neighborhoods and create positive, lasting change. This involves replacing or rehabilitating obsolete public buildings, promoting affordable housing, and implementing community and economic development strategies.

The $50 million CHOICE Neighborhood Grant is part of a $282.9 million revitalization effort that is bringing multiple partners together to completely transform the Smithfield community.

At the former Graymont School site, there will be approximately 101 affordable housing units in the new development, and the units will be available to families and residents making 80 percent of the Area Median Income.

“This is the first phase of us replacing affordable housing at the Smithfield site, which we will eventually be developing into mixed-use housing across eight different sites in the neighborhood,” Councilor Darrell O’Quinn said. “In addition to the senior housing component, there will be an early learning child development center on the ground floor, which really makes this an intergenerational community on this site.”

ITEM 10

The Council unanimously approved a plan to provide $1 million in funding to assist families who are being impacted by the disruption of SNAP benefits during the federal government shutdown.

One in four households in Birmingham receive these benefits, and the three-part response from the City seeks to ease the burden on these families.

The United Way of Central Alabama will manage the funds and distribute them to Birmingham SNAP recipients — replacing a portion of the suspended monthly food assistance. The City is also holding a Community Food Drive from Monday, November 3rd through Thursday, November 6th at Christian Service Mission (3600 3rd Avenue South, Birmingham AL). Drop-off hours for nonperishable goods and paper products will be from 7:30 a.m. through 4 p.m. on these days.

Lastly, the City is coordinating with local providers to relay information about wraparound services and assistance programs. That information can be found at: www.birminghamal.gov/bhamready

Stoppage in SNAP benefits doesn’t just impact recipients, it has major implications on our local economy.

“For every $1 in SNAP benefits, about $1.50 is generated in economic activity — this directly impacts our local businesses, especially small and independent stores in neighborhoods with limited grocery access,” Council President Wardine Alexander said on Thursday. “People buy less, and small businesses — many of which already struggle to stay afloat — will face even more hardship if this funding is stopped. Larger box stores and discount stores have the capacity to weather this storm, but many of our locally owned businesses do not. This is not a political issue. It’s a human issue. People are scared and unsure about what comes next.”

U.S. Congresswoman Terri Sewell joined the Council today in a show of solidarity to support the families struggling to navigate this uncertain time.

“It’s unfortunate that this is where we are right now,” Congresswoman Sewell said. “Politics should play no part in providing food for our seniors or children. By standing in the gap here in Birmingham and providing this much-needed funding, you are making a difference in people’s lives and I am very grateful for these efforts.”

ITEM 11

The Council approved an interlocal agreement to provide up to $750,000 to help facilitate the 2029 Senior Games in Birmingham.

These games, which were also held here in 2017, are expected to bring an economic impact of $38 million, with nearly 30,000 competitors and visitors expected to attend from all over the country.

The minimum age is 50 years old for competitors and events are divided into age brackets. This includes a wide range of sports — from track and field to swimming, pickleball, golf, tennis, and cycling.

Councilor Hunter Williams, Chair or the Economic Development and Tourism Committee, said that this is about continuing the momentum from previous large scale events.

“This is funding that we’re utilizing today is from the lodging tax collected when people visit Birmingham,” Williams said. “We’re expecting upwards of 30,000 room stays with this event, that’s held over a 10 day period. So not only are we going to see money being spent at restaurants and businesses during that period, but the event itself will help fund the recruitment efforts for other major events in the future by the lodging tax that we’ll collect. So this is a big win for us, especially since they’re coming back after a successful event in 2017.”

ITEM 13

The Council approved new committee assignments, which will be for a term of two years. Most notably, the number of committees has been consolidated and two committees will have co-chairs. Over the next week, the chairs of the committees will be working to finalize the days and times of the meetings and that information will then be made available.

Below is a breakdown of the various committees:

BUDGET AND FINANCE

CLINTON P. WOODS, CHAIR
WARDINE T. ALEXANDER
CRYSTAL N. SMITHERMAN

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT/ARTS AND CULTURE

SONJA SMITH & BRIAN GUNN, CO-CHAIRS
CRYSTAL N. SMITHERMAN
WARDINE T. ALEXANDER

ECONOMIC AND WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT/TOURISM

HUNTER WILLIAMS, CHAIR
BRIAN GUNN
SONJA Q. SMITH

PLANNING & ZONING

DARRELL O’QUINN & JOSH VASA, CO-CHAIRS
LATONYA A. TATE
CLINTON P. WOODS

PUBLIC SAFETY

LATONYA A. TATE, CHAIR
JOSH VASA
HUNTER WILLIAMS

TRANSPORTATION & INFRASTRUCTURE

DARRELL O’QUINN, CHAIR
SONJA Q. SMITH
LATONYA A. TATE