Birmingham's Decline: Alabama Lawmakers Weaken BWWB Authority

After years of deliberation, Alabama Governor Kay Ivey enacted significant legislation on Wednesday, altering the governance of the Birmingham Water Works Board, diminishing Birmingham's control. The new structure appoints a seven-member authority predominantly from suburban areas, granting Birmingham merely two seats. Lawmakers, especially Rep. Jim Carns, have long sought this reform to address infrastructural issues and rate hikes. Although city leaders vocalized opposition, asserting this legislation undermines local interests, the appointed Phillip Wiedmeyer for the newly formed board reflects a shift towards expertise.