BW Recommends | February 9, 2025
BW Recommends is a rundown of stories you might have missed this week, offering insight into issues important to our area or sometimes tickling your curiosity.
Public Safety
Monday Morning Watch | Week of January 27, 2025
BirminghamWatch's weekly rundown of public meetings and agendas in the city of Birmingham and Jefferson County. Our goal is to help you keep your elected officials accountable.
What Would You Do to Reduce Crime, City Asks Residents in Surveys
Birmingham leaders want to hear the opinions of residents, faith leaders and educators on what the city can do to reduce the number of people dying in violent crimes. Read more.
Birmingham Police Chief Set to Retire, Pickett Will Be Interim Chief
Birmingham Police Chief Scott Thurmond on Thursday announced he will retire from the department effective Nov. 29. Mayor Randall Woodfin named Deputy Chief Michael Pickett to take over as interim police chief when Thurmond departs. Read more.
Council Sets Nov. 12 Public Hearing on Safe Streets Pilot; Mayor Says It Has Reduced Crime in East Lake
The Birmingham City Council will hear public comments on the Safe Streets pilot program, which closed off streets in the East Lake area. Read more.
Birmingham Council Renews Funding for Juvenile Re-Entry Program Three Days After Mass Shooting Kills Four
Birmingham officials’ anger over a weekend mass shooting was slightly tempered Tuesday by a vote to fund another year of a juvenile re-entry program that’s shown success in reducing violence. Read more.
Birmingham Council Revokes Licenses for LGBTQ Club, Citing Major Security Concerns
The Birmingham City Council on Tuesday revoked all city licenses for The Quest Club, a longstanding LGBTQ meeting spot in Central Alabama. Read more.
Birmingham Council Sets Hearing on Whether to Revoke Quest Business License
Birmingham leaders next month will discuss revoking the business license of The Quest Club Inc., a private 24-hour nightclub that was the scene of a May shooting in which two men died. Read more.
Birmingham Officials Block Off East Lake Intersections in Hope of Reducing Crime
A pilot Safe Streets Initiative launched Monday in East Lake is blocking off key entry and exit points in an attempt to curb crime. Read more.
New Pilot Program Will Offer Housing, Resources to People Leaving Prison
The Birmingham Reentry Alliance will provide wrap-around services to dozens of men and women adjusting to life after prison. Read more.