Public Meetings - Birmingham, Alabama

The Birmingham City Council held its regular meeting on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, at 9:30 AM in the City Council Chambers. Council President Alexander presided, with eight members present and Councilmember Williams absent. Mayor Randall Woodfin was also absent; Chief of Staff Cedric Sparks delivered communications from the Mayor. The invocation was given by Rev. Dr. Kelvin Lang, and the Pledge of Allegiance was led by Council Pro-Tempore LaTonya Tate. The Council unanimously approved a wide-ranging consent agenda and passed several key resolutions and ordinances, including the continuation of a Hospital-linked Violence Intervention Program (HVIP). Consent Calendar The Council approved the entire consent agenda in a single 8-0 vote. This included 31 resolutions authorizing the abatement and removal of inoperable motor vehicles as public nuisances; a $239,929.69 Grant Fund Budget amendment for the Northside Spark project; a $1.00 license agreement for the RenewFest event on July 25, 2026; a three-year, $1,203,277.28 contract with Routeware, Inc. for DPW routing services; a $40,000.00 forgivable facade improvement loan to Woodlawn Cookhouse LLC; the acquisition of property at 4222 Shiloh Drive for the Shades Creek Greenway Project for $10.00; authorization to apply for State grants for City Walk Maintenance ($250,000) and the Police Athletics Youth Program ($50,000); authorization to apply for a $10,000,000.00 HUD PRO Housing grant; a $14,000.00 settlement in the matter of Denisha Allen v. City of Birmingham; acceptance of a $35,072.01 bid for Legion Field Locker Room Renovations; address corrections for the Pratt Highway Bridge Replacement Project; a bid from Stinger MS, LLC for Fire and Rescue Department appliances; expense accounts for officials and employees; and a resolution declaring 234 properties with noxious weeds a public nuisance, setting a public hearing for August 18, 2026. Items 34 (Sustainable Industrial-Residential Buffers Fund Agreement) and 37 (Small Magic learning ecosystem agreement) were withdrawn from the agenda prior to the vote. Presentations Councilmember O'Quinn introduced Kena Williams, owner of the nonprofit 'Me Time Book Club,' to present on her organization and the 'Behind the Ink' book festival. Williams stated that the festival promotes literacy and has grown significantly, increasing attendance by over 60 percent from 100 attendees in 2021 to over 600 in 2025. The next festival is scheduled for September 25, 2026, at the Harvard Center. Discussion Items - Hospital-Linked Violence Intervention Program (HVIP): The Council unanimously approved an ordinance authorizing the Mayor to execute an Interlocal Cooperation Agreement with the Jefferson County Board of Health to continue the HVIP. Under the agreement, the Offender Alumni Association will provide case management and support services, with the Board providing funding to the City not to exceed $1,154,574.00 through June 30, 2027. Councilmembers Smitherman and Pro-Tempore Tate expressed strong support for the program, with Smitherman calling for its potential expansion to other hospitals. - Village Creek Stormwater Park Floodplain Restoration Project: The Council authorized the Mayor to apply for a $2,645,000.00 FEMA Pre-Disaster Mitigation grant. Councilmember O'Quinn, who had the item removed from the consent agenda for discussion, received confirmation that the required 25% city match is housed within the Finance Department. - Zoning Board of Adjustment Appointment: Valerie Abbott was unanimously appointed to the Zoning Board of Adjustment to fill an unexpired term ending November 25, 2031. - Design Review Committee Reappointments: The Council unanimously reappointed Abra Barnes, Cindy Coyle, Ivan Holloway, and Brian Wolfe to the Design Review Committee for terms expiring July 30, 2029. - Zoning Map Amendment Public Hearing: The Council set a public hearing for August 25, 2026, to consider a zoning map amendment for property at 5900 Avenue M (Case ZAC2026-08003), changing the district from D-3 (Single Family) to QD-4 (Qualified Medium Density Residential). Communications from the Mayor Chief of Staff Cedric Sparks offered condolences on the passing of educator Dr. Willie James Maye. He also announced that applications for the BOLD (Building Opportunities for Lasting Development) program are now open. Sparks stated that over the last eight years, BOLD has directly contributed $6.2 million to 66 local organizations and was allocated $1.5 million in the FY27 budget. A public information forum will be held on July 16, 2026. Public Comments & Testimony - Joseph Holt: Addressed the Council regarding a police internal affairs investigation. Holt stated that complaints he made against officers for threatening him and for altering a police report (changing an estimated $40,000 in damage to $1) were sustained by Captain Harry Greenberg. He argued that the officers should be removed from duty, asserting that allowing officers who tamper with reports to remain on the street poses a risk to the public. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda: Adopted unanimously (8-0). - HVIP Ordinance (Item 33): Adopted on first reading with unanimous consent (8-0). Mayor authorized to execute the agreement. - FEMA Grant Authorization (Item 42): Adopted (8-0). Mayor authorized to apply. - Zoning Board Appointment (Item 45): Adopted (8-0). - Design Review Committee Reappointments (Item 46): Adopted (8-0). - Public Hearing Date Set (Item 56): Adopted (8-0). Hearing set for August 25, 2026. - Pre-Council Meeting: Cancelled due to lack of a quorum.

Consent Calendar - Approved unanimously with a vote of 8-0. Items included: - Nuisance abatement for dozens of properties, with costs to be assessed as liens. - A forgivable loan agreement (up to $100,000) with Thornton Enterprises, Inc., for job retention and the creation of 10 new jobs. - A Community Development Block Grant Critical Repair Program Subrecipient Agreement (up to $120,000) with HouseProud Atlanta, Inc. - Demolition declarations for approximately 40 structures found to be unsafe or public nuisances. - Acceptance of bids for drainage improvements ($221,292.50), mowing services, vehicle parts, fleet vehicles ($124,071.10), an electric scissor lift ($20,866.95), office furniture ($33,289.92), and other procurement. - Approval of itemized expense accounts for city employees. Public Comments & Testimony - Patricia Todd (1320 58th Street S., Crestwood): Speaking on behalf of the Firehouse Shelter, Ms. Todd expressed support for the facility and invited the Council to tour its operations. She thanked the city for funding and highlighted the shelter's positive outcomes. - Terri Michal (629 Ridge Top Circle): Expressed strong opposition to the direction of the current administration, criticizing the council for a perceived lack of independence. She referenced the "hyperscale data center conversation" and "anti-DEI" policies, urging council members to find their voices and courage. - Rev. Eric Hall (1721 Collum Street S., District 3): Raised concerns regarding public safety and negligence at the Birmingham City Jail. He criticized the administration's fiscal responsibility, citing $146,000+ given to Cornerstone for a project that was never completed and a recent news report of $250,000 misappropriated by the mayor's chief strategist. - Madelyn Greene (108 Munich Circle, P.O. Association President): Criticized the Council's handling of the data center ordinance, stating that the vote on June 9th disregarded the majority of public opinion. She urged the council to act in the best interest of the people. Discussion Items - Corrected Legal Description (Item 2): An ordinance (26-102) amending the legal description for the Baldwin Properties, LLC project at 1909 14th Avenue North was passed unanimously. The change was needed to correct an incomplete property description from a previous ordinance. - Southern Area Framework Plan (Item 64): The Council set a public hearing for August 18, 2026, to consider a zoning change for properties in the Crestline, Crestwood, and Red Mountain communities, based on the Southern Area Framework Plan (Case No. ZAC2025-00026). - Protective Security Services Ordinance (Item 65): An ordinance (26-103) authorizing temporary protective security services for elected officials and their immediate families in response to credible safety threats was unanimously adopted. Council President Alexander described it as a proactive measure in light of the national tenor. - Appointments: - Charles R. Miller IV, D'Rondrell (Ron) Hamner, and Lisa Williams were appointed to the Birmingham Planning Commission. - Elaine Carter was appointed to the Regional Planning Commission of Greater Birmingham Board of Directors. - Resolutions of Sympathy: The Council adopted a resolution honoring the life of Mr. Willie James Maye, Jr., a former educator, principal, and Birmingham School Board member who passed away on July 4, 2026. Key Outcomes - The extensive consent agenda was approved by an 8-0 vote, authorizing numerous nuisance abatements, demolitions, contracts, and financial agreements. - Ordinance 26-102 (Baldwin Properties legal description) was adopted. - Ordinance 26-103 (Protective security for officials) was adopted on first reading. - A public hearing for the Southern Area Framework Plan rezoning was scheduled for August 18, 2026. - Three new members were appointed to the Birmingham Planning Commission, and one to the Regional Planning Commission. - The meeting adjourned at 10:14 a.m.

The Birmingham City Council met on June 30, 2026, at 9:30 AM in the Council Chambers. The meeting included the approval of a large consent agenda covering vehicle abatements, budget amendments, adoption of FY2027 budgets, and a separate ordinance authorizing a child abuse response agreement. Three members of the public addressed the council on mental health, airport naming, and housing needs. The council adjourned at 1:54 PM. Consent Calendar - Approved resolutions authorizing the abatement and removal of 17 inoperable motor vehicles as public nuisances (items 1-17). - Approved ordinances amending the General Fund, Capital Fund, and Neighborhood Allocations Fund budgets for FY2026 (items 18-27), totaling approximately $108,932.32 in transfers from district accounts to PIC projects. - Adopted the FY2027 budget ordinances for the General Fund, General Bond Debt Reserve, Tax Increment Financing, Neighborhood Allocation, Highway Improvement, Fuel Tax, Storm Water, Corrections, Fair Trial Tax, Sporting and Entertainment Recruiting, Rebuild Alabama Act, Capital Improvement, Neighborhood Revitalization, Birmingham Fund, Land Bank Authority, and Community Development Block Grant funds (items 28-44). - Authorized $500 from the Jones Valley Neighborhood Association to the Birmingham Library Board for the Powderly Library Branch’s Summer Reading Program (item 45). - Authorized submission of the FY2026-2027 Action Plan to HUD for CDBG, HOME, ESG, and HOPWA programs, with total estimated funding of $9,585,488.83 (item 46). - Authorized application for a $100,000 National Park Service Underrepresented Communities Grant to survey properties in the Fountain Heights Community (item 47). - Accepted the bid of Wade Sand & Gravel Co., Inc. for crushed stone, riprap stone, and sand for one year (item 48). - Approved itemized expense accounts for appointed officials (item 49), city employees (item 50), advanced expense accounts for city employees (item 51), and advanced expense accounts for elected officials (item 55). - Declared 404 properties with noxious weeds as public nuisances and set a public hearing for August 4, 2026 (item 52). - Adopted a 5% merit increase for eligible employees effective July 1, 2026 (item 53). Public Comments & Testimony - Dr. Nadia Johnson (1545 Valley View Circle, Birmingham, AL 35209) spoke about the 2026 Mental Health Equity and Liberation Summit on July 23 at UAB, celebrating its 10th anniversary. She highlighted that her organization has provided over 8,000 hours of free counseling and seeks council support. She noted Alabama ranks 50th in mental health workforce. - Daniel Hudson (7 Hollyfield Avenue, Birmingham, England) requested a symbolic resolution of support for renaming Birmingham International Airport (UK) after Ozzy Osbourne. He stated nearly 80,000 people have backed the campaign. - Lathia P. Banks (24 Greensprings Avenue, Birmingham) urged the council to triple funding for home repair and construction, noting that the city’s population is declining and that demolition should be replaced with deconstruction. He referenced his attendance at the Black Wall Street delegation in Tulsa. Discussion Items - Item 54 (Ordinance 26-101): An ordinance authorizing the Mayor and Chief of Police to execute a one-year interlocal cooperation agreement for a multidisciplinary team (MDT) to respond to child abuse, involving multiple Jefferson County municipalities, Clay House Children’s Advocacy Center, the Alabama Department of Mental Health, and licensed mental health professionals. The ordinance was introduced, granted unanimous consent for immediate consideration, and then adopted unanimously (9-0). - The council also heard district updates from members regarding community events, meetings, and programs. Key Outcomes - All consent agenda items were approved by a unanimous 9-0 vote. - Item 54 (Ordinance 26-101) was adopted unanimously (9-0) after a motion for unanimous consent and a subsequent adoption vote. - The council acknowledged the request from Daniel Hudson regarding the UK airport renaming and stated they would consider it. - The meeting adjourned at 1:54 PM.

The Birmingham City Council met in regular session on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, at 9:34 a.m. in the Council Chambers. The meeting included a special presentation, approvals of routine consent items, first-read ordinances for economic development projects, and a public hearing setting for a zoning framework plan. Public comments addressed contractor transparency and a neighbor's debris issue. Consent Calendar - Approved by unanimous consent, with several corrections: Item 4 was moved from a resolution to an ordinance (permanent operation); Item 10's funding amounts were corrected (from $2,000,000 to $2,500,000 and from $1,500,000 to $1,000,000); and an addendum Item 31 was added. The consent agenda included routine approvals such as towing licenses, nuisance abatement liens, police department community events (Back-to-School Bookbag Giveaway, National Night Out, Ice Cream With A Cop), agreements with Brenda's Brown Bosom Buddies, Carahsoft (Hootsuite licenses), KultureCity (accessibility project), Penny Foundation amendments, Vertosoft (timeclocks), various settlements, bid awards, equipment transfers, and employee expense accounts. Special Presentation - Councilor Crystal Smitherman introduced representatives from the Pose Bazaar Foundation. Desmond Wilson and founder Lavinia Holliday presented the nonprofit's upcoming fashion and art show, scheduled for September 27, 2026, at Boutwell Auditorium. The event highlights Alabama creatives, includes a scholarship fund, and partners with the Bilbin Tucker So Up teen designer cohort. The Council acknowledged the presentation and encouraged community participation. Discussion Items - Item 3 – Sale of Land for Karting Facility (Ordinance): The Council considered an ordinance authorizing the sale of approximately 25 acres in Grand River Technology Park to BK Propco, LLC, for $1,850,000. BK Propco will build a world-class karting facility. Councilor Williams expressed excitement over the long-awaited development, noting it complements the Barber Motorsports area. The ordinance passed unanimously. - Item 4 – Baldwin Properties Redevelopment (Ordinance, moved from consent): An ordinance approving a project agreement with Baldwin Properties, LLC, for the redevelopment of 1909 14th Avenue North into a mixed-use development with residential and commercial space. The project involves $1.85 million in capital investments, an estimated $492,400 in annual revenue, and 25-30 new jobs. The City will provide a forgivable loan of up to $300,000 under Amendment 772. The item had been discussed in committee and passed unanimously. - Item 30 – Pratt-Ensley Framework Plan Public Hearing (Resolution): A resolution setting a public hearing for August 4, 2026, to consider zoning district boundary changes as part of the Pratt-Ensley Framework Plan. The resolution passed unanimously, scheduling the hearing for the regular meeting on that date. Public Comments & Testimony - Joseph Hope raised two concerns: 1) Lack of transparency regarding bidding opportunities for the planned city jail renovation, noting that no application process has been publicized; 2) Unfulfilled grant from the Penny Foundation (approved November 2024 for $2,500), with no response from the organization. Administration promised follow-up with purchasing, finance, and the Penny Foundation contact. - Antoinette Halsey described debris and trash from a neighboring property (located in the county) that has been pushed against her fence, causing wildlife and insect issues, including a previous severe bee sting. She had contacted District 1 and the county but requested further assistance. Councilor Woods confirmed the property line dispute and indicated ongoing efforts to mediate. Key Outcomes - Consent agenda approved with noted corrections. - Item 3 (BK Propco land sale) – Ordinance passed unanimously. - Item 4 (Baldwin Properties redevelopment) – Ordinance passed unanimously. - Item 30 (Pratt-Ensley public hearing) – Resolution passed unanimously, setting hearing for August 4, 2026. - City administration committed to follow up on Mr. Hope's bidding and grant concerns. - District announcements included upcoming neighborhood meetings, community events (D6 Fest, District 3 Summerfest, health fairs), and board openings (Design Review Committee, Land Bank Authority, Regional Planning Commission) with application deadlines noted.

The Birmingham City Council met in regular session on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, at 9:30 a.m. in City Council Chambers. The meeting was called to order with an invocation and the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by approval of minutes from March 3–31, 2026. Chief of Staff Cedric Sparks delivered announcements on behalf of Mayor Woodfin, including the closure of city offices on June 19 for Juneteenth, upcoming events, and a proclamation declaring June 2026 as Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month. The council considered a consent agenda, several individual ordinances and resolutions, and heard public comments. Consent Calendar - Items 1 and 2 were withdrawn: resolutions for a beer/wine license transfer (Graymont Foods) and an off-premise beer/wine license (Pike Road Market & Meats). - Items 3–5 (liquor licenses for Sticks & Bourbon, Lucky Stranger, Chelsea Blues Liquor) were approved. - Item 6: Operating authority permit for Stella Shuttle Service. - Item 7: Towing service license for Magic City Towing. - Items 8–14: budget amendments and appropriation ordinances, including a $1,400,000 transfer for capital improvements, a $250,000 transfer from a Trane settlement for Public Works deferred maintenance, $199,026.83 for Fire Station improvements, $26,000 for Library ADA water stations, $25,000 to Arlington House, and $1,200 for Harrison Park youth basketball. Item 14 was amended from $2,500 to $3,975 (adding $1,475 from District 3 discretionary funds) for lacrosse events. - Items 17–18: agreements with Birmingham Board of Education ($5,700, amended to include Huffman High School cheerleaders with $5,000 from District 1 discretionary and $700 from Killough Springs) and East Lake United Methodist Church ($1,200). - Items 20–21, 23, 25–43: various resolutions including software agreements, project funding (Sixteenth Street Baptist Church), insurance settlement ($201,826.25), fire protection repair amendment, change orders, payments, employee expense/advance accounts, public purpose determinations for events and beautification, and weed abatement for 168 properties (public hearing set for July 21, 2026). - Addendum items 44 and 45 were added and approved: operating authority for April Budget Taxicab Service and an advance expense account for Councilor LaTonya Tate. - Items 19 (Greenlining Realty) and 22 (Small Magic/Birmingham Talks) were pulled by Councilor Smitherman and voted on separately (see Discussion Items). - Item 24 (weed assessments to tax collector) was pulled by Councilor Gunn for discussion and later approved with a commitment to route future weed abatement items through the Community Development Committee. - The consent agenda was approved with Councilor Williams abstaining. Public Comments & Testimony - Rev. Eric Hall (Black Lives Matter) and DeCarius Blevins criticized conditions at Birmingham City Jail, citing three deaths in one week, including the death of Kalina “Peaches” Crossing, a transgender woman. They called for care rather than incarceration for nonviolent offenders and demanded accountability. - John Meehan (3001 Avenue D) inquired about the mayor’s proposed budget for recycling, noting past programs and requesting more information. Council President Alexander directed him to the city website. - Dr. W. Harris (lead pastor of an LGBTQIA-affirming church) focused on the death of Peaches Crossing, highlighting failures in mental health care for transgender inmates and urging the council to advocate for reforms and engage with the LGBTQ community. - Terri Michael (629 Ridge Top Circle) requested safeguards for data centers, including independent baseline testing of water, soil, air, and noise, ongoing monitoring, public disclosure of chemical treatments, and enforceable penalties, noting current closed-loop systems still use chemicals. Discussion Items - Item 15 – Electronic Attendance Ordinance (Ordinance 26-70): Council President Alexander introduced an ordinance to amend the city code to allow council members to attend meetings electronically when unable due to illness, in compliance with state law. The ordinance was read, and after unanimous consent, it passed unanimously (9-0). - Item 16 – HABD Interlocal Agreement (Ordinance 26-71): An ordinance authorizing a two-year agreement with the Housing Authority of the Birmingham District (HABD) for a law enforcement task force at housing communities. HABD will provide up to $2,368,516.32 for personnel, expenses, and vehicle costs; the city will provide up to 8 police officers, 1 sergeant, and 1 lieutenant. The ordinance passed unanimously (9-0). - Item 19 – Greenlining Realty Amendment: Resolution authorizing an amendment to extend a pre-development agreement for a 35-40 unit residential project in Druid Hills, with 10% of units reserved for residents at or below 100% AMI. The term extends to September 30, 2026, at a cost not to exceed $167,245. Councilor Smitherman inquired about the nature of the amendment (term extension only). The resolution passed (8-0, Williams absent). - Item 22 – Small Magic/Birmingham Talks Second Amendment: Resolution authorizing a second amendment to the agreement with Small Magic dba Birmingham Talks, adding $371,500 in additional funding (total not to exceed $750,000) for a 10-week early education program using wearable devices to address the “word gap.” The term extends to December 30, 2026. Councilor Smitherman requested success metrics; representatives reported serving 1,700 families in 2025 and 1,400 so far in 2026, with kindergarten readiness data expected from the first cohort of third graders. The resolution passed (8-0). - Item 24 – Weed Assessments: Councilor Gunn pulled this to clarify the committee process. After discussion, the council agreed to have future weed abatement items come through the Community Development Committee. The resolution was then adopted (8-0). Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda Approved (with one abstention) – All routine items passed except those withdrawn or pulled for separate votes. - Ordinance 26-70 (Electronic Attendance) – Adopted unanimously, allowing remote participation for ill council members up to six times per year, effective 45 days after adoption. - Ordinance 26-71 (HABD Task Force) – Adopted unanimously, authorizing a two-year interlocal agreement for enhanced police patrols at HABD properties. - Greenlining Realty Amendment (Resolution 1311-26) – Adopted 8-0, extending the pre-development contract to September 30, 2026, for Druid Hills housing. - Small Magic/Birmingham Talks Amendment (Resolution 1312-26) – Adopted 8-0, adding $371,500 for continued early literacy programming through December 30, 2026. - Weed Assessment Resolution 1313-26 – Adopted 8-0, with future abatement items to be routed through the Community Development Committee. - Meeting Adjourned at 10:44 a.m.

The Birmingham City Council convened on June 9, 2026, at 9:40 AM for a regular meeting that included approval of a consent agenda, several routine items, and a lengthy public hearing on a proposed data center zoning ordinance. The meeting lasted until late afternoon, with the council ultimately passing the ordinance after extensive debate and public testimony. Consent Calendar - Approved the consent agenda with modifications: item 23 (Jones Valley Teaching Farm agreement) removed and later passed separately; item 77 added to consent; item 62 (property at 444 1st Street North) removed and later withdrawn. The consent agenda included routine approvals for contracts, appointments, and other non-controversial items. Public Comments & Testimony - Over 40 members of the public spoke during the public hearing on the proposed data center zoning ordinance. Nearly all speakers expressed opposition to removing the special exception requirement, requested stronger protections, and urged the council to delay the vote. Key positions included: - David Butler (resident) expressed opposition to removing the special exception and argued that noise cannot be eliminated; he urged including specific noise limits and a 1,000-foot setback. - Olivia Thompson (resident) opposed the 500-foot setback, stating it was inadequate and that data centers should not be placed in residential areas without community input. - Lauren Gibson (resident) called for restoring the special exception requirement across all districts, arguing it provides citizens with the right to notice, appearance, and evidence presentation. - John Hilly (resident) requested enforceable numerical noise limits and questioned the 500-foot setback versus 1,000 feet for transit stations. - Cherie Bishop (resident) asked for independent baseline environmental testing before construction and independent monitoring afterward, including air, water, and soil. - Dr. Russell Johnson (Chief Medical Officer, Greater Birmingham Humane Society) expressed concern that noise studies use A-weighted decibels that do not account for animal hearing; he urged the council to require studies measuring what animals and sensitive populations can hear. - Alison Black Cornelius (CEO, Greater Birmingham Humane Society) shared a personal story about the importance of special exceptions and urged the council to restore that requirement. - Several speakers from environmental and community organizations (e.g., Black Warrior Riverkeeper, Southern Environmental Law Center, Alabama Rivers Alliance) supported the ordinance but called for public participation through the special exception process. - Multiple residents asked the council to consider the impacts on property values, utility costs, and health, and questioned whether council members would support such a facility in their own neighborhoods. Discussion Items - Jones Valley Teaching Farm Agreement (Item 23): Councilor O'Quinn requested removal from consent; the resolution authorized $56,000 for community-based educational workshops. Passed unanimously. - Appointment to Parks and Recreation Board (Item 33): Councilor Smith presented Demetri Carpenter for a term expiring October 8, 2026. Passed. - Demolition Assessment (Item 62): At the request of the administration, item 62 (a special assessment for demolition at 444 1st Street North for $6,685.60) was withdrawn. - Zoning Map Amendment (Item 2): A rezoning from I4 to QI1 at 101 Saraton Drive North to construct a convenience store with drive-thru. Staff reported the neighborhood voted 15-0 in favor. Passed. - Data Center Zoning Ordinance (Item 1): The main agenda item. Staff (Hunter Gerson, Kim Spurl) presented a comprehensive ordinance defining data center types and establishing 20 protections for hyperscale data centers, including closed-loop cooling, 500-foot residential setback, 1,000-foot transit station setback, five-acre minimum lot size, notification to property owners within 500 feet, and prohibition of on-site power generation from gas turbines or diesel generators. The ordinance removed the special exception requirement for hyperscale data centers (originally in the draft) in favor of a pre-permit process with certified mail notification and a required public meeting before incentives are given. Council members questioned noise regulation (to be handled via separate noise ordinance update), definitions, and notification details. Public testimony lasted several hours. Council President Alexander clarified that if the ordinance was not passed, existing projects exempt from the moratorium could expand without complying with the new rules. Councilor Smith asked about a complete ban; staff stated it is not legally possible. After debate, the vote was taken. Key Outcomes - Data Center Zoning Ordinance (Item 1): Passed (8-1, with Council President Alexander voting no). The ordinance establishes regulatory framework for data centers, including definitions and 20 conditions for hyperscale facilities. It removes the special exception requirement but includes notification, public meeting triggers, and continued public hearing opportunities through other regulatory processes (e.g., subdivision committee, I-3 zoning, Oxmoor Steering Committee, variance requests). The council indicated willingness to consider future amendments based on feedback. - Moratorium Impact: The temporary suspension on new data center development (enacted March 3, 2026) remains in effect until the ordinance is in force; however, projects with vested rights prior to March 3 are exempt and may expand without new restrictions unless the ordinance is passed. - Other Actions: The meeting adjourned after the data center vote; no additional community voices were heard due to the late hour.

The Birmingham City Council met in special adjourned session on June 3, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers at Birmingham City Hall for a public hearing on the proposed FY 2026-2027 General Fund and Capital Budgets (fiscal year ending June 30, 2027). Councilmember Clinton Woods, Chair of the Budget and Finance Committee, conducted the hearing, which was authorized by resolution at the Council's May 19, 2026 regular meeting and publicly noticed in the Alabama Messenger on May 27, 2026. The meeting opened with an invocation by Dr. Greg Stanley. The roll call showed no absences, with Councilmembers Williams, Tate, Vasa, and Gunn arriving after the initial call. The hearing was held solely to receive oral and written comments; no budget vote was taken. Public Comments & Testimony - West Side/Smithfield resident: Expressed concern that the proposed $650 million city budget leaves a “systematic hole” in the historic West Side. Citing a May 22 article, the speaker alleged that funding announced for Smithfield communities was traced to a different district, and requested that a parallel line item for home rehabilitation funding be placed in the city budget. - CAB Vice President (Rob): Raised process concerns, including that the speaker sign-up list closed before the 5:30 p.m. start (making it difficult for residents coming from work to participate) and that city emails publicized the budget but not this public hearing. Noted that state law (the mayor-council act) strips the council of the ability to make line-item budget changes, that council members do not receive budget request packets, and that the capital projects budget—including a park line item increasing over 8 to 12 years—is not posted on the city's website. Requested continued dialogue with the full CAB budget committee. - Johnny Gunn, President, Bell Neighborhood Association: Reported that the CAB adopted a resolution that was presented to the council and mayor. Requested that neighborhood funding be restored to $10,000 (referencing a current level of $4,500), arguing residents “shouldn't have to go through the park board and all these other things if we already have neighborhood funds.” Assured the council the money would not sit idle. - Neighborhood USA (NUSA) board representative: Expressed support for a budget line item to fund Birmingham's representation on the Neighborhood USA board and related expenses. The speaker, citing Birmingham's 99 neighborhoods, noted the city provides the largest number of delegates supporting NUSA, that the city's board seat has been vacant since a colleague (“Ellen”) passed away, and that board participation offers valuable networking with other cities and should continue after the speaker rolls off. - Wahouma neighborhood representatives (two speakers): Stated that their small neighborhood—one of the few that owns its own community center—cannot fund planned projects such as a playground renovation on $2,000 per year, and requested $10,000 in annual neighborhood funding. One speaker emphasized that the money “is not just sitting there in the bank” and urged the council: “You're the city.” - Neighborhood accountability commenter: Observed that some neighborhoods have roughly $50,000 budgets but lack officers or a president to manage the funds, while active neighborhoods struggle. Proposed quarterly budget reviews so that unused funds can be redistributed to neighborhoods actually using them (“use it or lose it”). - West End/Legion Fields commenter: Argued that investors receiving significant government support for development at Legion Fields should be required to give something back to the surrounding community. Key Outcomes - The Council received public testimony on the proposed FY 2026-2027 budget, and all comments were recorded for the budget process; no council deliberation, amendments, or votes occurred during the hearing. - Written comments were accepted after the hearing via Councilmember Woods' email address (Clinton.Woods@BirminghamAL.gov), as announced during the meeting. - The meeting adjourned by motion immediately following the close of the public hearing.

The Birmingham City Council held its regular meeting on June 2, 2026, at 9:30 AM, adjourning at 12:53 PM. The meeting began with announcements from Mayor Randall Woodfin regarding a community water drive (June 1-3) and a municipal court amnesty program for the month of June. The Council recognized National Gun Violence Awareness Day and heard presentations on violence reduction efforts. A public hearing was held on a zoning change for a proposed antique store, and two ordinances related to parking fines were debated and passed with amendments. Several consent agenda items were approved, and public comments were heard. Consent Calendar - Approved applications for towing service licenses for Boss Ladi Towing, LLC (4 wreckers) and We Got It Towing and Recovery (1 wrecker). - Declared six inoperable vehicles as public nuisances and authorized their removal. - Authorized a three-year purchase agreement with Lexipol, LLC for police policy manuals and subscriptions ($337,563.30). - Approved an amendment to the Toolbank USA Inc. agreement (not to exceed $345,000), extending the term to September 30, 2026. - Renewed cancer benefits for firefighters ($105,642), workers' compensation insurance ($491,805 for two years), and medical stop loss insurance ($1,528,990.32) for the upcoming fiscal year. - Authorized a right-of-way encroachment license agreement for a sign monument at 2800 Milan Court. - Approved relocation housing payment of $10,290 to Cody Hamner for the Pratt Highway Bridge Replacement project (amended address to 704 Pratt Highway). - Settled a claim by Leroy Torrence for $12,000. - Fixed special assessments for demolition of unsafe buildings at 38 properties, ranging from $4,644.40 to $116,360.00. - Accepted an emergency contract with Johnson Controls, Inc. for HVAC replacement at the Birmingham CrossPlex ($1,944,418.50). - Accepted bids for various construction and supply contracts, including drainage repairs, fire station apron repairs, and equipment purchases. - Approved payments for emergency management dues ($365,845.36 – amended), library supplies ($28,675.28 and $6,475.55), and eleven refunds totaling $85,483.71. - Approved expense accounts for officials and employees. - Declared 268 properties with noxious weeds as public nuisances, scheduling a public hearing for July 7, 2026. Presentations - Mayor Woodfin proclaimed June 2, 2026 as National Gun Violence Awareness Day. Councilor LaTonya Tate and representatives from Parents Against Gun Violence and the Office of Community Safety Initiatives highlighted a 72% reduction in homicides over two years and a 44% reduction last year. The hospital-linked violence intervention program has served over 285 survivors with zero retaliations. - Donald Smith presented updates on the James Lewis Tennis Center, including free tennis lessons, tournament awards, and youth development programs. Public Comments & Testimony - Joseph Holt (4730 2nd Ave N) spoke about the Holt Foundation's work providing trade training for youth, now serving 50 kids, and shared that a film crew is following their impact. - Mark Haynes (505 20th St) commended the Council for economic development, public safety, education, and food insecurity efforts, speaking on behalf of Mothers United Against Gun Violence. Discussion Items Zoning Change (Item 1): Ordinance ZAC2026-00003 to rezone 3849 Clairmont Avenue from R-6 to QMU-L for a boutique antique store. The Planning and Zoning Committee recommended approval with conditions (retail/residential only, height limit 35 ft, restricted operating hours). The Zoning Advisory Committee split 2-2 and did not recommend. The Forest Park South Avondale Neighborhood Association voted 14-12 in support. After discussion, the ordinance failed 3-6 (Councilors O'Quinn, Vasa, Woods voting yes; Gunn, Smith, Smitherman, Williams, Tate, Alexander voting no). Parking Fine Ordinances (Items 10 & 11): Two ordinances to amend parking fine and fee structures. Item 10 adds a $3 administrative fee for tickets unpaid after 30 days to cover notification costs. Item 11 revises the parking fine schedule, increasing fines by $10 for most violations and adding new violations. Following extensive debate, Item 10 passed unanimously (8-0). Item 11 was amended to remove the $10 increases while retaining new fines for previously unspecified violations, with a July 1, 2026 effective date; the amended ordinance passed 8-0. Property Sale (Item 12): Authorized the Mayor to execute a quitclaim deed to LC Willow Solutions, LLC for property at 1526 17th Street North for $8,400.55. Passed unanimously (8-0). Citywide Inlet Top Repairs (Item 60): Resolution accepting a $93,786 proposal from Carr Development for 2025 Citywide Inlet Top Repairs. Councilor Smitherman raised concerns about the use of concrete inlet tops and requested a list of repairs. Passed 7-0 (Councilor Woods absent, Councilor Smith absent). Key Outcomes - Approved: Consent calendar items as listed above. - Failed: Zoning change for 3849 Clairmont Avenue (3-6). - Passed: Ordinance to add $3 administrative fee for overdue parking tickets (Item 10) (8-0). - Passed (as amended): Ordinance to revise parking fine schedule (Item 11) (8-0), effective July 1, 2026, with no increase to existing fines but new fines for previously unspecified violations. - Passed: Property sale ordinance (Item 12) (8-0). - Passed: Inlet top repairs contract (Item 60) (7-0). - Next steps: Administration will provide a list of inlet top repairs and a cost analysis of concrete vs. alternative materials.

The Birmingham City Council met in regular session on May 26, 2026, at 9:30 AM in the Council Chambers. All nine council members were present. The meeting included a pre-council at 9:00 AM and opened with prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance. The council considered a consent agenda with routine items, held a public hearing on a business license revocation, debated two parking fine ordinances that failed on first reading, and approved several resolutions including a micro shelter agreement for unhoused residents. Consent Calendar - Items 2-4: Approved a bingo permit renewal for Birmingham AIDS Outreach (Mondays at 3130/3120 3rd Avenue South) and an operating authority permit for First Key Freight Broker, LLC (non-emergency medical vehicle). - Items 5-8: Declared four inoperable motor vehicles as public nuisances and authorized their abatement and removal (NOP2026-00212, -00213, -00214, -00222). - Item 9: Amended the Grants Fund Budget to appropriate $2,500 for the Library's America250AL Semiquincentennial Community Grant. - Items 13-15: Approved a first amendment to the agreement with Faith Chapel Christian Center for up to 15 micro shelters ($1,224,125.77, extended to August 31, 2027) and adopted the 2026 Division "G" Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan. - Items 16-18: Settled three lawsuits: Charles D. Perkins v. City of Birmingham ($21,000), Christopher Shane Russell v. Shunta Barbour ($12,500), and Elijah Kelley's claim ($12,000). - Items 19-20: Settled two workers' compensation claims: a BFRS employee ($150,000) and a BPD employee ($50,000). - Item 21: Appointed Yolanda Hardy to the Birmingham Public Library Board (term expiring December 30, 2030). - Items 22-30: Approved various contracts, including amendment for 35th Street Bridge Painting ($276,841), 1508 Columbia Street Drainage ($67,654.40), CrossPlex and Bill Harris Accessibility Improvements ($381,954), removal of 840 Vanderbilt Street from weed assessment, and payments for receptacles ($23,530.22), fire department supplies ($14,545), office furniture ($2,988), and heavy equipment (Sourcewell program). Also approved itemized and advanced expense accounts, and dedication of streets for Redding Ridge Phase 1-A. Public Comments & Testimony - A representative from an organization (likely a summer program) spoke during the meeting, asking for council support to assist high school students across districts. The program details were provided in council packets. - A public show cause hearing was held for the revocation of business license(s) of Beccar Inc., dba Nana Funks (708 29th Street South). No decision was recorded in the provided materials. Discussion Items - Items 10 and 11 (Parking Fine Ordinances): Two ordinances were introduced on first reading: one to remove additional penalties for parking violations and add an administrative fee for overdue tickets (Item 10), and another to revise the fine schedule and add fees for collection (Item 11). Councilmember Woods moved for unanimous consent to adopt both on first reading, but the motions failed due to lack of unanimous consent. The ordinances were held over to the regular meeting on June 2, 2026. - Item 13 (Faith Chapel Micro Shelters): The resolution authorizing a first amendment to the agreement with Faith Chapel for micro shelters was discussed. Councilmember O'Quinn moved adoption, seconded by Smitherman, and it passed unanimously. - Item 14 (Hazard Mitigation Plan): The resolution adopting the 2026 Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan was moved by Smitherman, seconded by Tate, and passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - Adopted: All consent agenda items, the Faith Chapel micro shelter resolution, the hazard mitigation plan, all lawsuit and workers' compensation settlements, the library board appointment, and all other routine resolutions and ordinances listed under consent. - Not Adopted: Items 10 and 11 were not adopted on first reading; they will be reconsidered on June 2, 2026. - Public Hearing Held: The show cause hearing for revoking Nana Funks' business license was conducted; no further action recorded.