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Mayor Randall L. Woodfin presented a series of budget amendments to the Birmingham City Council’s Budget and Finance Committee today, emphasizing investments in infrastructure, neighborhood revitalization, and public safety. The proposed changes prioritize street resurfacing, sidewalks, traffic calming measures, and increased funding for blight reduction efforts.
In his remarks, Mayor Woodfin highlighted the importance of these investments, stating, “The spending plan presented to the council highlights our shared priorities. I am proud of the more than $20 million dedicated specifically to neighborhood revitalization in this plan.” The proposal includes $15 million for street resurfacing, maintaining its position as the largest single investment in neighborhood improvements. Spending for sidewalks would increase to $1 million, a significant jump from the previous year’s $200,000 allocation, while funding for traffic calming measures would double to $500,000. An additional $1.25 million is recommended for the demolition of blighted structures and weed abatement, bringing the total for these efforts to $4.25 million.
The amended budget also includes provisions to support city employees, proposing a 3% cost-of-living adjustment for all employees, alongside funding for merit and longevity pay for those eligible. City employees will not face any increases in out-of-pocket contributions for healthcare or pensions. Public safety remains a cornerstone of the proposal, with a $16 million police recruitment and retention program continuing efforts to attract and retain officers. The program includes recruitment bonuses, a take-home vehicle initiative, part-time reserve officers, and pre-academy hiring. The police department’s budget is set to increase from $115 million to $124 million to cover these measures as well as employee pay adjustments and other safety initiatives.
Education and youth-focused programs retain a strong presence in the proposed amendments. The Birmingham Promise scholarship program will continue to receive $2 million, while $1 million is allocated to the Birmingham Board of Education. Small Magic, formerly Birmingham Talks, is slated to receive $250,000 to support early childhood education. Funding will also continue for financial literacy and conflict resolution programs in Birmingham City Schools, the Safe Haven initiative in city parks, and juvenile justice efforts in partnership with Jefferson County Family Court.
The budget amendments apply to the fiscal year that began on July 1, 2024, and ends June 30, 2025. They reflect the mayor’s commitment to addressing the needs of Birmingham’s neighborhoods and providing robust support for city employees and public safety initiatives. The City Council is expected to review and vote on the proposed changes in the coming weeks.
