Governor Ivey and Mayor Woodfin Finalize Appointments to Reformed Water Works Board
Governor Kay Ivey and Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin have finalized their appointments to the newly reformed Birmingham Regional Water Board, marking a significant step towards the board's inaugural meeting. The appointments include Thomas 'Tommy' C. Hudson, Jr., named by Governor Ivey, and Jarvis Patton, Sr., selected by Mayor Woodfin. These selections complete the seven-member board as mandated by the recently enacted SB330, which aims to address past controversies and mismanagement within the Birmingham Water Works.
The board's formation follows a legislative overhaul that redistributes power from the city of Birmingham to a broader regional representation, reflecting the geographic distribution of the water works' customer base. Birmingham now holds only two seats on the board, a reduction from its previous majority control. This shift is part of a broader effort to ensure more equitable governance and oversight of the water works' operations and finances.
Among the first orders of business for the new board is a review of financial decisions made by the previous board, including employment contracts, grants, and consultant payments over the last two years. Additionally, the board is expected to consider a purchase agreement to transfer the water works' assets to the city of Birmingham for a nominal fee, a move that has sparked discussion among stakeholders and the public alike.
The appointments and upcoming deliberations represent a pivotal moment for water governance in the region. With a diverse group of appointees bringing a range of experiences and perspectives, the board is poised to tackle the challenges ahead. As the board prepares for its first meeting, all eyes will be on how these new leaders navigate the complexities of regional water management and stewardship.
