Stings and Bites: JeffCo Commissioners Exchange Classic Quips in Bessemer Meeting
They also OK’d a tax abatement to lure an industrial supplier.
Government
Birmingham City Council Passes Long-Awaited Tree Ordinance in Valerie Abbott’s Name
On her final day in office, Birmingham Councilor Abbott sees passage of “Abbott’s Law,” which grants the Tree Commission real authority to manage and protect the city’s greenery.
Judge Dismisses Challenge to Womack’s School Board Win
He said the lawsuit was filed too late to be considered.
Appeals Court Presses Pause on JeffCo Redistricting Case
The ruling allows Jefferson County to continue with next year’s election under current district maps.
Suit Over Womack’s School Board Win in the Hands of a Judge
Opponent contends he didn’t live in the district when elected; Womack seeking dismissal.
Capital Cuts Loom as Water Works Struggles to Balance 2026 Budget
Budget constraints could threaten plans for an automated-meter-reading system, replacement of aging pipelines and lead lines, and the rehabilitation of the Lake Purdy dam.
Birmingham Council Greenlights $547K Contract With Freshwater Land Trust for Trail Development
Work on the trail would connect trails in Birmingham and Mountain Brook along Shades Creek.
Voting Rights Attorneys Meet With Residents Amid Jefferson County Redistricting Battle
Following a ruling striking down the county’s 2021 County Commission district map, lawyers explained next steps and warned that appeals could delay reform ahead of the 2026 election.
Jefferson County Fights Clock and Court in Redistricting Battle
The county argued that it’s too late in the political cycle to change the district maps now, and doing so could block some potential candidates from running for the commission.
If It Ain’t Broke: JeffCo Urges Against Changes in Online Tax Revenue Distribution
The County Commission also passed a new zoning ordinance that adds housing types and encourages redevelopment to limit suburban sprawl.