Regular City Council Meeting

Sole-source: City approves Grayshift GrayKey iPhone software license

City will buy proprietary software that bypasses iPhone encryption to support police investigations. Raises privacy concerns about data access and retention, especially in communities already affected by surveillance.

Predictive policing tool: sole-source deal with PredPol

Birmingham will use data-driven software to guide police patrols. The sole-source procurement sidesteps competitive bidding, raising questions about vendor choice, cost oversight, and police surveillance technology's impact on neighborhoods.

ITEM 14. A Resolution recognizing the service of "Blue Boy," a member of the Birmingham Police Department Mounted Patrol, who, having reached the age of approximately 23 years of age, having given approximately 7 years of good service to the Birmingham Pol

Birmingham honors "Doc," retired mounted police horse, after 7 years of service

The city recognizes a long-serving police asset that helped patrol neighborhoods and build community connections through the Mounted Patrol program.

Council honors Fly Joe Eagle, 20-year-old mounted police horse, after 7 years of

The Birmingham Police Department's mounted patrol loses a working animal that served the public for seven years. Recognition of department assets and animal welfare reflects city values.

City approves vendor agreement with CDW Government LLC

CDW is a major IT and office equipment supplier; this agreement authorizes city purchases from their contract pricing. The specific dollar amounts and products aren't disclosed in this agenda item.

Earl Hilliard allowed to repair condemned building at 28 2nd Ave N

Property owner can now proceed with repairs on a building the Council previously condemned, potentially returning it to use or improving neighborhood conditions on 2nd Avenue North.

ITEM 17. CHANGE TO THE 30TH A Resolution determining that the Birmingham City Council's Training and Development Workshop, to take place on or around December 14, 2020 - January 11, 2021 at a location to be determined within the geographical boundaries of

Zoning change coming to Smithfield Community

Smithfield Community properties will shift into new zoning districts, which can affect what gets built, how land is used, and property values. Zone changes often precede development or preservation efforts.

Zoning Ordinance amendment proposed

Changes to zoning rules can affect what gets built, where residents live, and neighborhood character. Details about which zones are affected and what restrictions change are needed to assess impact.

Public hearing set for airspace vacation along 2nd Avenue South

City will consider whether to allow vacation (removal from public ownership) of about 11,300 square feet of airspace above 2nd Avenue South between 16th and 17th Streets South. Airspace vacation decisions affect future development rights and public access over the right-of-way.

Zoning map amendment hearing set for January 5

City Council will hear a proposal to change zoning district boundaries. The outcome could affect development eligibility and land use on the parcels involved.