Mayor Woodfin’s budget surplus invests in neighborhoods, personnel and facilities

Mayor Randall L. Woodfin’s investment priorities have received final, unanimous approval from the Birmingham City Council to provide city employees with a 5 percent cost of living adjustment, increase personnel for Birmingham Fire and Rescue Services, improve and build key venues and support neighborhoods, libraries, parks and recreation centers through an $81 million budget surplus. 

“I want to thank members of the council for working with me to achieve this major investment in our community,” Mayor Woodfin said. “Our responsible budgeting process which saw savings while also a significant boost in tax revenue provided the city with an $81 million surplus. Our priority is to invest in our greatest strengths – our neighborhoods, our employees and our facilities.” 

Up to $60.4 million will support these priorities during the current fiscal year, including: 

• 5 percent cost of living adjustment for city employees ($13.5 million) 
• 37 new Birmingham Fire and Rescue Services personnel ($2.45 million) 
• Library capital improvements ($3.6 million) 
• Park and recreation centers capital improvements ($4.4 million) 
• Vehicle fleet upgrades ($8 million) 
• Legion Field improvements ($4 million) 
• Rickwood Field improvements ($2 million) 
• CrossPlex Family Fun Center design and construction (up to $15 million) 
• North Birmingham amphitheater partnership ($5 million) 

Additional funds will boost sidewalk repair and additional neighborhood revitalization, weed abatement and the city’s legal claims fund.