BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - The word of the day at Jefferson County satellite courthouses: chaos. Five hour wait times at locations, including Gardendale, Forestdale, Centerpoint and Homewood.
Starting at 5:45 a.m., a line formed at the Homewood office. A couple of hours later, lines wrapped around the building.
Jared Jones walked to the courthouse to stand in line before the facility closed up shop.
“This is the worst I've ever seen it,” Johnson said. “I'm almost ashamed to live here because its so bad"
The office in Gardendale was a bit less packed, but a line still formed inside. Geoffrey Dunne waited for about 3 hours and says it wasn’t the standing in line that was painful.
"I feel sorry for the people who aren't gonna have a job tomorrow,” Dunne said. “Thats my biggest concern"
In Forestdale, the line snaked around four times inside. Those waiting say it was out the door at the start of business.
Gail Davis only waited an hour, but says the chaos is absurd.
"It’s not fair,” Davis said in frustration. “It’s not fair to the citizens. We’re paying taxes and it should just be different, they should find a way to make things better...that's what theyr'e paid for." Davis stopped at Forestdale only after seeing the lines at the Centerpoint Satellite location, and she was right.
Roger Yank arrived before 8 a.m. Friday and was finally at the front window at 1 p.m. Yank was frustrated there were only 3 county workers to help people. "This is the last day here," Yank said. "Nobody put any consideration into the people who have to pay taxes or buy tags....and now we are having to suffer through the agony."
Linda Jones got a chair and was dragging it through the line.
"This was very ill prepared for," Jones said. "I'm not able to stand 5 hours and move an inch at a time."
Most county employees at the satellite courthouses will be placed on unpaid administrative leave. They tell FOX 6 they will likely file for unemployment and hope the county fixes the mess soon.
Friday, July 31, 2009
Jefferson County tax assessor sues county commission
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - The tax assessor of Jefferson County filed a lawsuit Friday afternoon against the county commission, seeking to stop budget cuts planned for his department.
Dan Weinrib, tax assessor of Jefferson County, filed the lawsuit Friday afternoon against the Jefferson County Commission, asking a judge to immediately issue a temporary restraining order preventing the commission from cutting his department's budget and stop any budget cuts to his office.
The lawsuit was filed hours before nearly 67 percent of the county's work force was set to be put on administrative leave without pay as part of the county commission's efforts to balance its budget without the occupational tax. The tax was ruled illegal by a judge earlier this year.
Weinrib told FOX6 News cuts to his office would be a "detriment" for bringing revenue into the county. He added his office is funded by property tax funds, not the illegal occupational tax funds.
Dan Weinrib, tax assessor of Jefferson County, filed the lawsuit Friday afternoon against the Jefferson County Commission, asking a judge to immediately issue a temporary restraining order preventing the commission from cutting his department's budget and stop any budget cuts to his office.
The lawsuit was filed hours before nearly 67 percent of the county's work force was set to be put on administrative leave without pay as part of the county commission's efforts to balance its budget without the occupational tax. The tax was ruled illegal by a judge earlier this year.
Weinrib told FOX6 News cuts to his office would be a "detriment" for bringing revenue into the county. He added his office is funded by property tax funds, not the illegal occupational tax funds.
Troy King warns of new scam
MONTGOMERY, AL (WBRC) - Alabama Attorney General Troy King and the Better Business Bureau warn that scam artists are calling people and telling them they are eligible for a one-thousand dollar food voucher from the stimulus program.
The callers say the person just has to pay $3.95 by credit or debit card to get the voucher.
Upon receiving a credit card number, they steal their victim’s identities and start charging all kinds of things to the account.
The callers say the person just has to pay $3.95 by credit or debit card to get the voucher.
Upon receiving a credit card number, they steal their victim’s identities and start charging all kinds of things to the account.
ASU gets tuition hike
MONTGOMERY, AL (WBRC) - Students at Alabama State University are facing a big tuition hike.
Trustees at ASU have approved a 21.8 percent increase in tuition. That means students will pay an additional 504-dollars per semester.
That is the biggest increase announced so far among the state's largest schools.
Trustees at ASU have approved a 21.8 percent increase in tuition. That means students will pay an additional 504-dollars per semester.
That is the biggest increase announced so far among the state's largest schools.
Hoover police capture two suspected Facebook bandits
HOOVER, AL (WBRC) - The Hoover Police Department says it has arrested two men who used Facebook to target and burglarize victims.
20-year-old Tyler Austin Glass and 19-year-old Spencer Collin Shivers both face charges in relation to burglaries that happened between July 12 and July 22.
According to police, Glass and Shivers would check out facebook pages of friends or friends of friends to find any who were away to target their victims.
Glass is facing two counts of second degree Burglary and three counts of third degree Burglary. Shivers is facing one count of second degree Burglary and two counts of second degree Receiving Stolen Property
20-year-old Tyler Austin Glass and 19-year-old Spencer Collin Shivers both face charges in relation to burglaries that happened between July 12 and July 22.
According to police, Glass and Shivers would check out facebook pages of friends or friends of friends to find any who were away to target their victims.
Glass is facing two counts of second degree Burglary and three counts of third degree Burglary. Shivers is facing one count of second degree Burglary and two counts of second degree Receiving Stolen Property
Long Lines Frustrate Taxpayers
HOMEWOOD, AL (WBRC) - On Friday morning, dozens of people lined up at the Jefferson County satellite courthouse in Homewood. It is the last day that the building will be open.
The Jefferson County Commission closed all satellite courthouses due to a lack of funds.
Beginning on Monday taxpayers will be forced to go to the county building in downtown Birmingham or the county building in Bessemer.
FOX6 News has confirmed that the Bessemer county building will only have three employees working at the satellite courthouse.
The Jefferson County Commission closed all satellite courthouses due to a lack of funds.
Beginning on Monday taxpayers will be forced to go to the county building in downtown Birmingham or the county building in Bessemer.
FOX6 News has confirmed that the Bessemer county building will only have three employees working at the satellite courthouse.
Budget cuts affect Jefferson County Coroner
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Jefferson County's financial troubles now impacting the county coroner's office. Budget cuts and thirty hour work weeks are now causing the county coroner's office to suffer.
The county medical examiner says his department is down to only one investigator per shift. Dr. Robert Brissie says more budget cuts will mean he will have eliminate what deaths his office can investigate. Traffic fatalities will be the first category of deaths to go. That means the coroner's office will not respond the scenes and other circumstances surrounding a person's death will go unknown.
"It would mean agencies in the jurisdiction of the accident would have to make arrangements to have bodies transported to an emergency room facility," says Dr. Robert Brissie.
If there are even more cuts, Dr. Brissie says after traffic deaths he will have to eliminate other categories of deaths his office can't investigate.
The county medical examiner says his department is down to only one investigator per shift. Dr. Robert Brissie says more budget cuts will mean he will have eliminate what deaths his office can investigate. Traffic fatalities will be the first category of deaths to go. That means the coroner's office will not respond the scenes and other circumstances surrounding a person's death will go unknown.
"It would mean agencies in the jurisdiction of the accident would have to make arrangements to have bodies transported to an emergency room facility," says Dr. Robert Brissie.
If there are even more cuts, Dr. Brissie says after traffic deaths he will have to eliminate other categories of deaths his office can't investigate.
Administrative leave, closings of satellite offices begin in Jeffco
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Hundreds of Jefferson County employees are out of work beginning Friday.
The county was forced to put 67 percent of its workforce on administrative leave. Also, all satellite offices will close after today.
Even with budget cuts and administrative leave, county commissioners say they cannot guarantee they will make payroll for August 21st.
The County says that citizens can still go to the Birmingham and Bessemer locations, but they should expect long lines. At the Bessemer location, there will only be 3 workers.
The county was forced to put 67 percent of its workforce on administrative leave. Also, all satellite offices will close after today.
Even with budget cuts and administrative leave, county commissioners say they cannot guarantee they will make payroll for August 21st.
The County says that citizens can still go to the Birmingham and Bessemer locations, but they should expect long lines. At the Bessemer location, there will only be 3 workers.
Jefferson County employee charged with bomb threats
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - A county employee on the list for administrative leave has been charged with making bomb threats.
30-year-old Marcus Maddox is behind bars on a 50-thousand dollar bond.
The Sheriff's Department says he is accused of sending several threatening e-mails to county employees and two county commissioners Thursday afternoon.
30-year-old Marcus Maddox is behind bars on a 50-thousand dollar bond.
The Sheriff's Department says he is accused of sending several threatening e-mails to county employees and two county commissioners Thursday afternoon.
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Missing Auburn student found
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Auburn University student Michael Harrie was discovered leaving Thailand Wednesday, almost two weeks after his parents reported him missing.
Auburn University said investigators in Thailand notified Auburn University's Department of Public Safety and Security, saying Michael Harrie left that country on Wednesday, July 29. Immigration officials said Harrie appeared to be safe and apparently left the country under his own free will.
Harrie was reported missing on July 16 by his parents after he failed to show up for a planned meeting with them in Tokyo.
Auburn University said investigators in Thailand notified Auburn University's Department of Public Safety and Security, saying Michael Harrie left that country on Wednesday, July 29. Immigration officials said Harrie appeared to be safe and apparently left the country under his own free will.
Harrie was reported missing on July 16 by his parents after he failed to show up for a planned meeting with them in Tokyo.
Al LaPierre pleads guilty
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Birmingham lobbyist Al LaPierre pleaded guilty Thursday to conspiracy and filing false tax returns.
LaPierre faces 8 years in jail after confessing he funneled money from Montgomery investment banker Bill Blount to Birmingham Mayor (and then-county commissioner) Larry Langford in exchange for Langford steering county business to Blount.
Al LaPierre told a judge he was pleading guilty because he was in fact guilty of these charges.
After 20 minutes of questioning, Judge Scott Coogler accepted LaPierre's plea.
"Very remorseful. As I said earlier, mixed emotions, somewhat relieved to have made a decision and put this matter behind him," LaPierre’s attorney Tommy Spina said. "But at the same time saddened by the effect his decision to plead guilty has had, particularly on his family members. And I know he's let himself down."
Langford told FOX6 News Wednesday LaPierre's testimony will help, not hurt his case. Langford has said before that any money he got was a loan, not a bribe, though LaPierre's plea says the lobbyist will testify the exchanges were meant to influence Langford.
The Dean of Samford’s Cumberland Law School said it will be up to a jury to decide who they believe.
"The facts as outlined in that case, the plea agreement -- the fact there was a coverup before the SEC, and they'll have other evidence of intent, other crimes evidence," Judge John Carroll said. "For example, we know Mary Buckelew is expected to testify in that case, there may be others that testify in that case. The government's case is not solely built on LaPierre's testimony but he certainly is an important part of it."
"I think Al came across exactly as he really is," Spina said. "He's contrite, he's remorseful, he made a mistake. My experience in cases is that jurors are able to see past that in making a determination about whether a witness is truthful or not."
Al LaPierre faces a maximum of 8 years in prison, but that could be knocked down to 4 years if prosecutors believe he substantially helps their case with his testimony. He remains free on bond until sentencing. The trial of Larry Langford and Bill Blount is scheduled to begin August 31st.
LaPierre faces 8 years in jail after confessing he funneled money from Montgomery investment banker Bill Blount to Birmingham Mayor (and then-county commissioner) Larry Langford in exchange for Langford steering county business to Blount.
Al LaPierre told a judge he was pleading guilty because he was in fact guilty of these charges.
After 20 minutes of questioning, Judge Scott Coogler accepted LaPierre's plea.
"Very remorseful. As I said earlier, mixed emotions, somewhat relieved to have made a decision and put this matter behind him," LaPierre’s attorney Tommy Spina said. "But at the same time saddened by the effect his decision to plead guilty has had, particularly on his family members. And I know he's let himself down."
Langford told FOX6 News Wednesday LaPierre's testimony will help, not hurt his case. Langford has said before that any money he got was a loan, not a bribe, though LaPierre's plea says the lobbyist will testify the exchanges were meant to influence Langford.
The Dean of Samford’s Cumberland Law School said it will be up to a jury to decide who they believe.
"The facts as outlined in that case, the plea agreement -- the fact there was a coverup before the SEC, and they'll have other evidence of intent, other crimes evidence," Judge John Carroll said. "For example, we know Mary Buckelew is expected to testify in that case, there may be others that testify in that case. The government's case is not solely built on LaPierre's testimony but he certainly is an important part of it."
"I think Al came across exactly as he really is," Spina said. "He's contrite, he's remorseful, he made a mistake. My experience in cases is that jurors are able to see past that in making a determination about whether a witness is truthful or not."
Al LaPierre faces a maximum of 8 years in prison, but that could be knocked down to 4 years if prosecutors believe he substantially helps their case with his testimony. He remains free on bond until sentencing. The trial of Larry Langford and Bill Blount is scheduled to begin August 31st.
No deal between sheriff and commission
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - There is still no deal in the budget battle between Jefferson County Sheriff Mike Hale and the county commission.
The commission wanted to cut Hale's budget by $4.1 million this week, but Jefferson County Circuit Judge Joseph Boohaker stopped them Wednesday and ordered continued negotiations.
The latest sticking point is the sheriff's ex-officio funds, which are dollars from the sheriff's pistol permits, other permits and grants. The two sides are in disagreement over how much money is in the funds. The county contends there is $2.7 million, while attorneys for the sheriff say it's closer to $1.3 million.
Hale sued the county commission trying to keep as many deputies on the highway as possible. Thursday, Hale's attorney Rob Riley asked Alabama Congressman Spencer Bachus' office to get someone from the U.S. Justice Department to allow them to use federal grants for keeping deputies on patrol.
Jefferson County Commissioners are hopeful a deal can be struck soon.
"The good thing is we are talking" said Jefferson County Commissioner William Bell. "Even if we we are talking through attorneys. We have conversations going on. Hopefully we will come together to face the challenge."
Both sides are scheduled to have another meeting with Judge Boohaker on Monday.
The commission wanted to cut Hale's budget by $4.1 million this week, but Jefferson County Circuit Judge Joseph Boohaker stopped them Wednesday and ordered continued negotiations.
The latest sticking point is the sheriff's ex-officio funds, which are dollars from the sheriff's pistol permits, other permits and grants. The two sides are in disagreement over how much money is in the funds. The county contends there is $2.7 million, while attorneys for the sheriff say it's closer to $1.3 million.
Hale sued the county commission trying to keep as many deputies on the highway as possible. Thursday, Hale's attorney Rob Riley asked Alabama Congressman Spencer Bachus' office to get someone from the U.S. Justice Department to allow them to use federal grants for keeping deputies on patrol.
Jefferson County Commissioners are hopeful a deal can be struck soon.
"The good thing is we are talking" said Jefferson County Commissioner William Bell. "Even if we we are talking through attorneys. We have conversations going on. Hopefully we will come together to face the challenge."
Both sides are scheduled to have another meeting with Judge Boohaker on Monday.
Jefferson County courthouses closed after Friday
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Long lines greeted hundreds of Jefferson County taxpayers Thursday who tried to make payments before all of the county's satellite courthouses were to be shut down after Friday.
Jefferson County is putting 67 percent of it's work force on administrative leave without pay and closing all of its satellite courthouses to help it deal with the loss of millions of dollars in lost revenue from the occupational tax, which was ruled illegal earlier this year.
Thursday, Jefferson County commissioners said expect the long lines at the main courthouse to get worse.
"It will look vastly different than what it looks now," said Commissioner William Bell. "You can expect lines to double or triple. You will have only skeletal staff in most of the offices."
"There is nothing you can tell somebody when they are going through something like this other than you can feel their pain," said Commissioner Jim Carns. "That doesn't make them feel any better when they miss their house payments, car payments and child support payment."
Even with budget cuts and administrative leave, the county cannot gurantee it will make payroll August 21st. That is why the commissioners are looking at other cuts, including a proposal to suspend the federal Family and Medical Leave Act, which pays benefits to pregnant workers on leave.
"We are looking at ways to address that issue but legally we have to take this next step," Bell said. "Hopefully we can find a way around it."
Jefferson County employees could be on administrative leave without pay up to six weeks.
"If we could do it today, we would have done it today, but we can't do it that quickly." said Commissioner Bobby Humphryes. "Just try to hang in there. We will work on it to get them back as soon as possible."
Jefferson County lawmakers are scheduled to meet next Tuesday to see if they will support a new occupational tax to end the county's financial crisis.
Jefferson County is putting 67 percent of it's work force on administrative leave without pay and closing all of its satellite courthouses to help it deal with the loss of millions of dollars in lost revenue from the occupational tax, which was ruled illegal earlier this year.
Thursday, Jefferson County commissioners said expect the long lines at the main courthouse to get worse.
"It will look vastly different than what it looks now," said Commissioner William Bell. "You can expect lines to double or triple. You will have only skeletal staff in most of the offices."
"There is nothing you can tell somebody when they are going through something like this other than you can feel their pain," said Commissioner Jim Carns. "That doesn't make them feel any better when they miss their house payments, car payments and child support payment."
Even with budget cuts and administrative leave, the county cannot gurantee it will make payroll August 21st. That is why the commissioners are looking at other cuts, including a proposal to suspend the federal Family and Medical Leave Act, which pays benefits to pregnant workers on leave.
"We are looking at ways to address that issue but legally we have to take this next step," Bell said. "Hopefully we can find a way around it."
Jefferson County employees could be on administrative leave without pay up to six weeks.
"If we could do it today, we would have done it today, but we can't do it that quickly." said Commissioner Bobby Humphryes. "Just try to hang in there. We will work on it to get them back as soon as possible."
Jefferson County lawmakers are scheduled to meet next Tuesday to see if they will support a new occupational tax to end the county's financial crisis.
LaPierre pleads guilty to charges
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) – Lobbyist Al LaPierre has plead guilty to federal charges Thursday morning.
LaPierre appeared in front of U.S. District Judge Scott Coogler to plead guilty to one count of conspiracy and one count of filing a false tax return. All other charges are dropped in the plea deal.
LaPierre was charged with paying thousands of dollars in bribes to Larry Langford for banker Bill Blount while Langford was on the Jefferson County Commission.
It is expected that LaPierre will serve around 4 years for his charges and will have to testify in the Larry Langford trial.
Sentencing for LaPierre is likely to come 2-3 months after the Langford trial. The trial for Blount and Langford is set to begin August 31st.
LaPierre appeared in front of U.S. District Judge Scott Coogler to plead guilty to one count of conspiracy and one count of filing a false tax return. All other charges are dropped in the plea deal.
LaPierre was charged with paying thousands of dollars in bribes to Larry Langford for banker Bill Blount while Langford was on the Jefferson County Commission.
It is expected that LaPierre will serve around 4 years for his charges and will have to testify in the Larry Langford trial.
Sentencing for LaPierre is likely to come 2-3 months after the Langford trial. The trial for Blount and Langford is set to begin August 31st.
Former youth minister sentenced to five years
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - A former Birmingham youth minister and pastor will spend the next five years in prison.
William David Webb plead guilty to transporting a 15-year-old girl across state lines for sex.
A judge sentenced him to five years in prison and eight years probation.
Webb served as youth minister at Word of Life Church in Birmingham.
William David Webb plead guilty to transporting a 15-year-old girl across state lines for sex.
A judge sentenced him to five years in prison and eight years probation.
Webb served as youth minister at Word of Life Church in Birmingham.
Jeffco School Superintendent says scale backs are coming
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Expect larger class sizes and delays on school maintenance is the word from Jefferson County Schools Superintendent Phil Hammonds to his principals today at a meeting before the start of the school year.
Dr. Hammonds appeared on Good Day Alabama on Thursday morning responding to bad financial news for schools including the latest from the county tax collector.
Tax revenue totaling $200-million to 12 school systems in the county will be delayed several months for Jefferson County schools
Dr. Hammonds says Jefferson County schools will borrow from the $60-million it has in reserves.
Despite predictions of more proration, he remains optimistic things will turn around.
Dr. Hammonds appeared on Good Day Alabama on Thursday morning responding to bad financial news for schools including the latest from the county tax collector.
Tax revenue totaling $200-million to 12 school systems in the county will be delayed several months for Jefferson County schools
Dr. Hammonds says Jefferson County schools will borrow from the $60-million it has in reserves.
Despite predictions of more proration, he remains optimistic things will turn around.
Hoover City Council invites public to cuts meeting
HOOVER, AL (WBRC) - The Hoover City Council meets Thursday evening to discuss their proposed budget cuts and are inviting the public to listen before the vote.
It starts at four in council chambers.
Council members plan to focus their discussions the cuts to the city and school system for this year's budget and next.
It starts at four in council chambers.
Council members plan to focus their discussions the cuts to the city and school system for this year's budget and next.
Escaped Donaldson inmate caught
BESSMER, AL (WBRC) - Officers have captured an escaped Donaldson Prison inmate. 30-year-old Jeffrey Blackwood was found about eight miles away from the prison in a boat along the Warrior River.
Prison officials say Blackwood escaped by running into nearby woods while doing grounds keeping work at the prison Wednesday.
Blackwood began serving time in October 2006 on charges of receiving stolen property and forgery. He was scheduled to be released in March 2011.
Prison officials say Blackwood escaped by running into nearby woods while doing grounds keeping work at the prison Wednesday.
Blackwood began serving time in October 2006 on charges of receiving stolen property and forgery. He was scheduled to be released in March 2011.
Five Points Music Hall reopens
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - The Five Points Music Hall has re-opened. The nightclub and concert venue opened to the public Wednesday night with free admission.
The club's investors are promising "name" acts including Vanilla Ice, who is performing Saturday night.
The original Five Points South Music Hall opened in 1994, but then folded eight-years later.
The club's investors are promising "name" acts including Vanilla Ice, who is performing Saturday night.
The original Five Points South Music Hall opened in 1994, but then folded eight-years later.
Car bomb explodes in Parrish
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - A Walker County man was sitting in his vehicle on Wednesday, when a bomb exploded. The victim is now in serious condition at UAB Hospital.
Agents with the ATF and FBI have been called in to assist police to find out who planted the explosive device.
This all happened around 6:00 pm at a home on Crest Avenue in the Walker County community of Parrish.
Walker County's Sheriff says it is unknown what type of explosive device it was or how it was detonated. He did say the explosion was confined to the inside of the truck.
Sheriff John Mark Tirey says this incident is shocking.
Authorities at this time are not releasing the victims name and it is unknown if his injuries are life threatening.
If you know anything about this crime you are urged to call the Walker County Sheriff's Office or the Parrish Police Department.
Agents with the ATF and FBI have been called in to assist police to find out who planted the explosive device.
This all happened around 6:00 pm at a home on Crest Avenue in the Walker County community of Parrish.
Walker County's Sheriff says it is unknown what type of explosive device it was or how it was detonated. He did say the explosion was confined to the inside of the truck.
Sheriff John Mark Tirey says this incident is shocking.
Authorities at this time are not releasing the victims name and it is unknown if his injuries are life threatening.
If you know anything about this crime you are urged to call the Walker County Sheriff's Office or the Parrish Police Department.
Swine Flu death confirmed in Jefferson County
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - The Jefferson County Department of Health has confirmed that a Jefferson County resident has died from the H1N1 influenza virus.
According to authorities, a male in his 50's, who suffered from other medical problems, died in a Birmingham hospital. After his passing, testing confirmed that he was infected with Swine Flu at the time of his death.
The Department of Health would like to remind citizens to take preventative measures against the spread of the virus. They add that hand washing is an excellent way to avoid getting sick.
According to authorities, a male in his 50's, who suffered from other medical problems, died in a Birmingham hospital. After his passing, testing confirmed that he was infected with Swine Flu at the time of his death.
The Department of Health would like to remind citizens to take preventative measures against the spread of the virus. They add that hand washing is an excellent way to avoid getting sick.
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Man charged with murder after shooting suspected car thieves
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Birmingham police have charged a man with murder after he shot two men he believed to have stolen his car.
Police say 26-year-old Brandon Mason fatally shot one man and injured another after finding the two with his stolen car.
Brandon Mason is being held without bond at the Jefferson County Jail on charges of capital murder and attempted murder.
Two of the four men involved have been charged with Theft of a Vehicle.
Police say 26-year-old Brandon Mason fatally shot one man and injured another after finding the two with his stolen car.
Brandon Mason is being held without bond at the Jefferson County Jail on charges of capital murder and attempted murder.
Two of the four men involved have been charged with Theft of a Vehicle.
Groundbreaking held for new zoo exhibit
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - There will be a new exhibit at the Birmingham Zoo.
A groundbreaking took place today for the 12 million dollar Trails of Africa exhibit. The exhibit will become a center of study for male elephants.
The exhibit is expected to take 12 to 18 months to build and will add 14 acres to the zoo with possibilities for night simulated safaris and interactive exhibits.
A groundbreaking took place today for the 12 million dollar Trails of Africa exhibit. The exhibit will become a center of study for male elephants.
The exhibit is expected to take 12 to 18 months to build and will add 14 acres to the zoo with possibilities for night simulated safaris and interactive exhibits.
Inmate escapes from Donaldson Correctional Facility
BESSEMER, AL (WBRC) - The Alabama Department of Corrections says an inmate has escaped from Donaldson Correctional Facility.
Authorities are looking for 30-year-old Jeffrey Scott Blackwood.
Blackwood is a white male, 6' and 165 lbs. He has brown hair and blue eyes.
Contact police if you see Blackwood.
Authorities are looking for 30-year-old Jeffrey Scott Blackwood.
Blackwood is a white male, 6' and 165 lbs. He has brown hair and blue eyes.
Contact police if you see Blackwood.
LaPierre to plead guilty to federal charges
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Al LaPierre will plead guilty to federal charges Thursday morning according to his attorney.
LaPierre will appear in front of U.S. District Judge Scott Coogler to plead guilty to one count of conspiracy and one count of filing a false tax return. All other charges would be dropped in the plea deal.
LaPierre, along with Birmingham Mayor Larry Langford and banker Bill Blount are currently charged in a 101 count indictment. The accusations include conspiracy, bribery, fraud, and false tax returns. The trial is set to begin August 31st.
LaPierre will appear in front of U.S. District Judge Scott Coogler to plead guilty to one count of conspiracy and one count of filing a false tax return. All other charges would be dropped in the plea deal.
LaPierre, along with Birmingham Mayor Larry Langford and banker Bill Blount are currently charged in a 101 count indictment. The accusations include conspiracy, bribery, fraud, and false tax returns. The trial is set to begin August 31st.
Jeffco Commission and Sheriff at odds again
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - The budget battle between Jefferson County commissioners and Sherriff Mike Hale takes center stage once again.
Attorneys for both the County Commission and Sheriff Hale met in chambers with Judge Joseph Boohaker on Wednesday morning. On Tuesday, the County Commission voted to cut $4.1 from the Sheriff's budget. Due to this, the Sheriff's attorneys have asked for the County Commission to be held in contempt of court for trying to cut more money from the Sheriff's budget. The Commission is saying that they must make a bigger cut due to the financial crisis.
Judge Boohaker has ruled that the injunction will stay and has ordered both sides to return to the negotiation table.
"We will continue to negotiate in good faith and see if there is any way to keep the deputy sheriffs protecting this county", says Hale when referring to a return to negotiations. Sheriff Hale says that if the money had been cut from his budget, 177 deputies would have lost their jobs.
It was several weeks ago when a judge blocked the commission from cutting the sheriff's budget by five million dollars. Last week, Sheriff Hale offered to reduce his budget by almost three million dollars, but Commission President Bettye Fine Collins claims it is not enough.
Sheriff Hale said he has tried twice to meet with the commission since their last negotiation session on Thursday and has been denied twice. He says that lack of communication could be considered contempt of court because of a judge's order for the two sides to negotiate on any cuts.
The county commission's argument is that they do not have enough money and need to make the cuts. They say they may not even be able to make payroll on August 21st.
Notices of administrative leave will be sent out Wednesday and picked up by Jefferson County employees. It is expected that 67% of the County's workforce will be placed on leave.
Attorneys for both the County Commission and Sheriff Hale met in chambers with Judge Joseph Boohaker on Wednesday morning. On Tuesday, the County Commission voted to cut $4.1 from the Sheriff's budget. Due to this, the Sheriff's attorneys have asked for the County Commission to be held in contempt of court for trying to cut more money from the Sheriff's budget. The Commission is saying that they must make a bigger cut due to the financial crisis.
Judge Boohaker has ruled that the injunction will stay and has ordered both sides to return to the negotiation table.
"We will continue to negotiate in good faith and see if there is any way to keep the deputy sheriffs protecting this county", says Hale when referring to a return to negotiations. Sheriff Hale says that if the money had been cut from his budget, 177 deputies would have lost their jobs.
It was several weeks ago when a judge blocked the commission from cutting the sheriff's budget by five million dollars. Last week, Sheriff Hale offered to reduce his budget by almost three million dollars, but Commission President Bettye Fine Collins claims it is not enough.
Sheriff Hale said he has tried twice to meet with the commission since their last negotiation session on Thursday and has been denied twice. He says that lack of communication could be considered contempt of court because of a judge's order for the two sides to negotiate on any cuts.
The county commission's argument is that they do not have enough money and need to make the cuts. They say they may not even be able to make payroll on August 21st.
Notices of administrative leave will be sent out Wednesday and picked up by Jefferson County employees. It is expected that 67% of the County's workforce will be placed on leave.
Birmingham to cover city election expenses
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Jefferson County's financial woes will now keep the county from providing voting machines sites for next month's elections in Birmingham. The county says there won't be enough county workers to operate them. That means, Birmingham will now have to go through a vendor to get the scanning machines and will also have to hire its own poll workers.
On Tuesday, the council voted to allocate an additional 150-thousand dollars to cover the extra expenses, but Carole Smitherman says if more money is needed, it will be provided.
The elections are Tuesday, August 25th.
On Tuesday, the council voted to allocate an additional 150-thousand dollars to cover the extra expenses, but Carole Smitherman says if more money is needed, it will be provided.
The elections are Tuesday, August 25th.
Mayor Langford is "budgeted out"
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Completing a 2010 budget for the city of Birmingham will now be done without the mayor.
Mayor Larry Langford says he is "budgeted out" and has refused to go to anymore budget meetings.
The latest amended version of the budget cuts non-profits by 20-percent and fully funds all city departments.
Mayor Larry Langford says he is "budgeted out" and has refused to go to anymore budget meetings.
The latest amended version of the budget cuts non-profits by 20-percent and fully funds all city departments.
PACT Program may have a fighting chance
MONTGOMERY, AL (WBRC) - An official of Alabama's pension program says the state can likely save the financially ailing prepaid college tuition plan, but it is going to take a lot of cooperation between the Governor, lawmakers and education leaders.
The Retirement Systems' Deputy Director says he will present a study of the pact plan to the Governor before making it public.
The Legislature asked the Retirement Systems to study the tuition plan because the plan's assets are not enough to cover future tuition obligations.
The Retirement Systems' Deputy Director says he will present a study of the pact plan to the Governor before making it public.
The Legislature asked the Retirement Systems to study the tuition plan because the plan's assets are not enough to cover future tuition obligations.
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
New grocery stores could be coming to Birmingham
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Ten grocery stores could be coming to Jefferson County. Mayor Larry Langford says at least five will come to the Birmingham city limits. Langford has asked city councilors to submit sites in their district that might be eligible for stores. Langford says grocery stores in the city are much needed and this could be a big win for citizens.
Council President Carole Smitherman responded by saying, "Hallelujah."
"Were as close now to getting new grocery stores as we've ever been," Langford said.
There is no word yet on which grocery store chain is interested in opening up shop.
Council President Carole Smitherman responded by saying, "Hallelujah."
"Were as close now to getting new grocery stores as we've ever been," Langford said.
There is no word yet on which grocery store chain is interested in opening up shop.
Ordinance to change minimum number of bingo machines fails
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - An ordinance to change the minimum number of electronic bingo machines in Birmingham has failed.
All city councilors voted "no" to change the minimum from 500 machines to 1,000 for each electronic bingo establishment.
City councilors approved the original bingo ordinance a couple months ago.
Mayor Larry Langford wanted to raise the minimum number of machines allowed to make sure the operations did not pop up on every street corner.
The next step will be to start issuing permits for the electronic bingo operations to open up shop.
All city councilors voted "no" to change the minimum from 500 machines to 1,000 for each electronic bingo establishment.
City councilors approved the original bingo ordinance a couple months ago.
Mayor Larry Langford wanted to raise the minimum number of machines allowed to make sure the operations did not pop up on every street corner.
The next step will be to start issuing permits for the electronic bingo operations to open up shop.
Birmingham will not file declaratory judgement against Jeffco D.A.
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Birmingham will not file a declaratory judgment against Jefferson County District Attorney Brandon Falls.
Mayor Larry Langford wanted to file the judgment in order to seek a ruling about electronic bingo.
Falls had originally stated he did not think it would be beneficial to the city to pass an ordinance allowing electronic bingo.
The Birmingham City Council's appointed judge says he would advise city leaders to wait for a ruling from the Alabama Supreme Court.
Mayor Larry Langford wanted to file the judgment in order to seek a ruling about electronic bingo.
Falls had originally stated he did not think it would be beneficial to the city to pass an ordinance allowing electronic bingo.
The Birmingham City Council's appointed judge says he would advise city leaders to wait for a ruling from the Alabama Supreme Court.
Langford focuses on transit troubles
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Birmingham Mayor Larry Langford told the City Council Tuesday that he is focusing all of his efforts on fixing the regions transit problems.
Langford told the council he is working on a plan that would either fix the problem or get rid of the current system that is in place and create a new one.
Langford said ridership on buses is down seven percent this year. The mayor also says many people have to wait an hour to actually get a bus.
The mayor said he would present his plan to city council in two weeks.
Langford told the council he is working on a plan that would either fix the problem or get rid of the current system that is in place and create a new one.
Langford said ridership on buses is down seven percent this year. The mayor also says many people have to wait an hour to actually get a bus.
The mayor said he would present his plan to city council in two weeks.
Former UAB football player arrested in counterfeit cigar sting
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Two people have been arrested in a counterfeit cigar sting, including a former UAB football player.
Investigators say 30-year-old Jegil Duggar and 32-year-old Faisal Elnaham would buy thousands of cheap and uninspected cigars from India and China and then would repackage them as Swisher Sweets. Detectives say the men would then sell the fakes to stores across the region. Both are charged with multiple counts of theft of trademark.
On an interesting note, Duggar is a former UAB running back and second in all time UAB history for rushing yards. He remains behind bars under 600-thousand dollars bond.
Elnaham has been released on bond.
Investigators say 30-year-old Jegil Duggar and 32-year-old Faisal Elnaham would buy thousands of cheap and uninspected cigars from India and China and then would repackage them as Swisher Sweets. Detectives say the men would then sell the fakes to stores across the region. Both are charged with multiple counts of theft of trademark.
On an interesting note, Duggar is a former UAB running back and second in all time UAB history for rushing yards. He remains behind bars under 600-thousand dollars bond.
Elnaham has been released on bond.
Police identify latest homicide victim
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Birmingham police have identified the city's latest homicide victim.
Officers say 20-year-old Harold Brown was shot to death on the 54-hundred block of Park Avenue Southwest Monday afternoon.
Authorities say a man opened fire on a group of men, killing Brown and wounding another. Investigators say the suspect shot the men because his car had been stolen and, while searching the area, had found the men with his stolen car trying to jump it off.
The case is still under investigation, but no charges have yet been filed.
Officers say 20-year-old Harold Brown was shot to death on the 54-hundred block of Park Avenue Southwest Monday afternoon.
Authorities say a man opened fire on a group of men, killing Brown and wounding another. Investigators say the suspect shot the men because his car had been stolen and, while searching the area, had found the men with his stolen car trying to jump it off.
The case is still under investigation, but no charges have yet been filed.
University of Alabama drops off party school list
TUSCALOOSA, AL (WBRC) - The party is over in Tuscaloosa at the University of Alabama.
The school has dropped off the Princeton Review's top party schools list.
Alabama ranked 19 on the list last year. The school made it near the top in 2000, ranking in at number two.
The school has dropped off the Princeton Review's top party schools list.
Alabama ranked 19 on the list last year. The school made it near the top in 2000, ranking in at number two.
Two arrested on attempted murder charges in Tuscaloosa
TUSCALOOSA, AL (WBRC) - Two men from Tuscaloosa face attempted murder charges for shots fired into a parked car.
Derrick Robinson and Jaboris Sears each face two counts attempted murder and shooting into an occupied vehicle. Investigators say the men were arguing with another man, sitting in a parked car at 21st Street and 41st Court in Holt.
The driver was wounded in the leg. A woman in the passenger seat was hit in the neck.
The female passenger remains hospitalized in critical condition. The driver was treated and released.
Derrick Robinson and Jaboris Sears each face two counts attempted murder and shooting into an occupied vehicle. Investigators say the men were arguing with another man, sitting in a parked car at 21st Street and 41st Court in Holt.
The driver was wounded in the leg. A woman in the passenger seat was hit in the neck.
The female passenger remains hospitalized in critical condition. The driver was treated and released.
Jeffco Commission wants bigger cuts from Sheriff
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - The Jefferson County Commission will be asking Jefferson County Sheriff Mike Hale to make a larger cut out of his budget.
On Tuesday, the Commission passed a resolution to ask the Sheriff to make a cut of $4.1 million.
Initially, the Commission wanted to take $5.1 million out of the Sheriff's budget. After a lawsuit in the Sheriff's Department's favor, Sheriff Hale has offered to make a cut of $2.9 million during negotiations.
Both parties are expected to appear in front of Judge Joseph Boohaker again on Wednesday.
On Tuesday, the Commission passed a resolution to ask the Sheriff to make a cut of $4.1 million.
Initially, the Commission wanted to take $5.1 million out of the Sheriff's budget. After a lawsuit in the Sheriff's Department's favor, Sheriff Hale has offered to make a cut of $2.9 million during negotiations.
Both parties are expected to appear in front of Judge Joseph Boohaker again on Wednesday.
Samford announces new Director of Public Safety
HOMEWOOD, AL (WBRC) - Samford University has announced its new Director of Public Safety and Emergency Management.
It is former Birmingham Police Chief and Alabama Public Safety Director Mike Coppage.
The university says Coppage will begin work tomorrow. He replaces Bobby Breed, who retired.
It is former Birmingham Police Chief and Alabama Public Safety Director Mike Coppage.
The university says Coppage will begin work tomorrow. He replaces Bobby Breed, who retired.
Federal Government may help Birmingham transit system
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - The federal government may soon be stepping in to help Birmingham's struggling transit system.
A plan is underway to get $65-million in stimulus funds.
The transit service would run in the downtown Birmingham and UAB areas and to some outlying neighborhoods. The system would also include 32 new buses and bus lanes.
Organizers have until September to submit a grant to the federal government.
A plan is underway to get $65-million in stimulus funds.
The transit service would run in the downtown Birmingham and UAB areas and to some outlying neighborhoods. The system would also include 32 new buses and bus lanes.
Organizers have until September to submit a grant to the federal government.
Birmingham City Council to meet in special session over budget
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - The Birmingham City Council meets later this morning for a specially-called budget session.
A consultant for Birmingham's city council says the city will end fiscal year 2009 with a $26-million budget deficit.
Councilors are still trying to hammer out a 2010 budget. It is nearly a month overdue. They are not convinced the numbers from Mayor Langford are accurate. They have requested a state audit to find out exactly how much money the city has.
Council President Carole Smitherman says that audit will not be done until at least late August. They are exploring other options to approve a budget they can live with.
A consultant for Birmingham's city council says the city will end fiscal year 2009 with a $26-million budget deficit.
Councilors are still trying to hammer out a 2010 budget. It is nearly a month overdue. They are not convinced the numbers from Mayor Langford are accurate. They have requested a state audit to find out exactly how much money the city has.
Council President Carole Smitherman says that audit will not be done until at least late August. They are exploring other options to approve a budget they can live with.
Monday, July 27, 2009
Troy King warns seniors against scams
MONTGOMERY, AL (WBRC) - Alabama Attorney General Troy King is holding conferences for senior citizens across the state this week. His goal is to provide information on guarding against scams and fraud.
Representatives of several state agencies and law enforcement will also participate.
The one closest to our area will be held Thursday at the Gardendale Civic Center.
Representatives of several state agencies and law enforcement will also participate.
The one closest to our area will be held Thursday at the Gardendale Civic Center.
No financial solution yet from Jeffco lawmakers
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) – Jefferson County lawmakers say they will not yet have a solution to Jefferson County’s financial crisis after Monday’s meeting.
The lawmakers say they will need more time to reach consensus on the finer points of the bill. The sticking points between lawmakers are the inclusion of professionals like doctors and lawyers, and whether the bill will phase itself out.
State Representative John Rogers says he is working on a bill that will include professionals and will come up for a county-wide vote in 2012. If it is not renewed, Rogers’ plan will include a 5-year phase out.
Lawmakers are planning to meet again next week and say they could be ready for a special legislative session by August 10th.
More than a half dozen people greeted the lawmakers on their entrance to the meeting. These people plead for them to save jobs and services by getting the new tax passed.
The lawmakers say they will need more time to reach consensus on the finer points of the bill. The sticking points between lawmakers are the inclusion of professionals like doctors and lawyers, and whether the bill will phase itself out.
State Representative John Rogers says he is working on a bill that will include professionals and will come up for a county-wide vote in 2012. If it is not renewed, Rogers’ plan will include a 5-year phase out.
Lawmakers are planning to meet again next week and say they could be ready for a special legislative session by August 10th.
More than a half dozen people greeted the lawmakers on their entrance to the meeting. These people plead for them to save jobs and services by getting the new tax passed.
Jeffco lawmakers meet over financial crisis
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Jefferson County lawmakers will meet Monday about the county's financial crisis. The legislative delegation is expected to make a decision about which job tax the group will support in an upcoming special session.
This comes as the county is prepared to put hundreds of employees on administrative leave without pay. Jefferson County Commission President Bettye Fine Collins says the county has no choice but to send workers home in order to cut pay roll.
Governor Bob Riley says he is prepared to help the county by calling a special session if the lawmakers can agree on one bill.
Meanwhile, Jefferson County judges, including Chief Justice Sue Bell Cobb are expected to speak out about the financial crisis at noon.
This comes as the county is prepared to put hundreds of employees on administrative leave without pay. Jefferson County Commission President Bettye Fine Collins says the county has no choice but to send workers home in order to cut pay roll.
Governor Bob Riley says he is prepared to help the county by calling a special session if the lawmakers can agree on one bill.
Meanwhile, Jefferson County judges, including Chief Justice Sue Bell Cobb are expected to speak out about the financial crisis at noon.
Justice Patti Smith to retire from AL Supreme Court
MONTGOMERY, AL (WBRC) - Alabama Supreme Court Justice Patti Smith is done after this year.
Smith says she will not seek re-election in 2010 so she can spend more time with her 83-year-old mother.
Smith is one of three justices whose seats are up next year. The other two, Republicans Mike Bolin and Tom Parker, say they plan to run again.
Smith says she will not seek re-election in 2010 so she can spend more time with her 83-year-old mother.
Smith is one of three justices whose seats are up next year. The other two, Republicans Mike Bolin and Tom Parker, say they plan to run again.
Alabama reservists help crash victims in South Carolina
AIKEN, SC (WBRC) - Some military members from Bessemer step in to help after witnessing a crash on their way back to Alabama.
It happened on Interstate 20 westbound in Aiken, South Carolina.
The reservists' bus driver says an SUV blew a tire and rolled over into the median on the opposite side of the divider. Since the volunteers on board had medical training, they jumped into action to help those involved.
The reservists stayed on the scene, until other law enforcement personnel arrived.
It happened on Interstate 20 westbound in Aiken, South Carolina.
The reservists' bus driver says an SUV blew a tire and rolled over into the median on the opposite side of the divider. Since the volunteers on board had medical training, they jumped into action to help those involved.
The reservists stayed on the scene, until other law enforcement personnel arrived.
Price of Alabama driver's license goes up
MONTGOMERY, AL (WBRC) - It is about to cost a little more to get a new Alabama driver's license or to renew an old one.
Beginning Monday, July 27th, the cost goes from $23.00 to $23.50.
The extra money will go to the Alabama Citizenship Trust Fund, which provides funding for the American Village and a National Veterans Cemetery in Montevallo.
Beginning Monday, July 27th, the cost goes from $23.00 to $23.50.
The extra money will go to the Alabama Citizenship Trust Fund, which provides funding for the American Village and a National Veterans Cemetery in Montevallo.
Gas prices are falling
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - The price of gasoline is falling. Prices across the country fell about seven cents a gallon during the past two weeks to $2.49 for a gallon of regular unleaded. That is more than a $1.50 less than the price at this time last year.
Analyst Trilby Lundberg says the rate of decline is slowing.
Birmingham drivers are getting a relative bargain. The average for regular in the Magic City is $2.35 cents a gallon for regular.
Analyst Trilby Lundberg says the rate of decline is slowing.
Birmingham drivers are getting a relative bargain. The average for regular in the Magic City is $2.35 cents a gallon for regular.
Friday, July 24, 2009
County can't guarantee next paycheck
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Jefferson County workers got paid Friday, but county commissioners said they cannot guarantee future pay checks will be paid.
"It is armageddon," said Jefferson County Commissioner Jim Carns. "When you start talking about the items right now. You can't get any worse than this other than putting a lock on the front door."
Acting Finance Director Travis Hulsey said Friday the county is facing tough times. "We are looking at the start of month with two million dollars," said Hulsey. "At the end of the pay period and the remainder of the month."
News of pay problems upset county workers Friday.
"When I came to the county, a secure job, it was supposed to always be there," said John Burgett, a worker in Roads and Transportation. "Now this is coming on. I don't know what to do about it."
The county and the Jefferson County Employees Association set up information sessions earlier this week for job training, counseling, unemployment benefits and health insurance. Still, Jefferson County Commission President Bettye Fine Collins said administrative leave will save jobs.
"I hope they do understand at least we are giving them a way that they will have a job to come back to if the legislature decides this or Alabama Supreme Court," said Collins.
Commissioner Carns said if the county fails to get a new occupational tax, county employees now on leave could lose their jobs.
Jefferson County workers said they are considering their options.
"I climbed trees as a profession," Burgett said. "I'm going to have to climb and cut trees, I guess."
"It is armageddon," said Jefferson County Commissioner Jim Carns. "When you start talking about the items right now. You can't get any worse than this other than putting a lock on the front door."
Acting Finance Director Travis Hulsey said Friday the county is facing tough times. "We are looking at the start of month with two million dollars," said Hulsey. "At the end of the pay period and the remainder of the month."
News of pay problems upset county workers Friday.
"When I came to the county, a secure job, it was supposed to always be there," said John Burgett, a worker in Roads and Transportation. "Now this is coming on. I don't know what to do about it."
The county and the Jefferson County Employees Association set up information sessions earlier this week for job training, counseling, unemployment benefits and health insurance. Still, Jefferson County Commission President Bettye Fine Collins said administrative leave will save jobs.
"I hope they do understand at least we are giving them a way that they will have a job to come back to if the legislature decides this or Alabama Supreme Court," said Collins.
Commissioner Carns said if the county fails to get a new occupational tax, county employees now on leave could lose their jobs.
Jefferson County workers said they are considering their options.
"I climbed trees as a profession," Burgett said. "I'm going to have to climb and cut trees, I guess."
Lawmakers to meet Monday on new occupational tax
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - As Jefferson County lawmakers prepare to meet Monday to tackle a new occupational tax, the war of words continued Friday over who was to blame for the county's financial crisis.
"We have a crisis everyone understands that," said Sen. Steve French. "We need to address the crisis."
Earlier this week, French requested a delay of the meeting in order to give lawmakers more time to get and analyze financial documents from the county, but Friday French said he and other lawmakers will attend the meeting.
"It's how we address the crisis," French said. "Is it in a slipshod manner or do it and try to get it right the first time?"
The senator is pushing a bill which would set caps for those who pay occupational taxes. French would also like to see those taxes end at on one point, but the Republican lawmaker said he has doubts they will be able to reach an agreement on one bill. Republican lawmakers are also demanding any new tax be tied to mandating the county commission hire a county manager before getting new tax dollars.
Commission President Bettye Fine Collins on Friday continued to blame county lawmakers for the financial crisis. She said lawmakers failed to legally replacing it the tax after it died in 1999.
"We are all the victims by the lack of action of our legislators," Collins said. "For them to continue to with this knowing human suffering will ensue. There is no way in the world they can blame anybody but themselves when the day is done."
"We didn't create the mess," French said. "The county has known for years this day was coming. It's our job to remedy the mess."
Up to 67% of county workers are expected to be put on administrative leave without pay by August 1st because of the lost revenue.
"We have a crisis everyone understands that," said Sen. Steve French. "We need to address the crisis."
Earlier this week, French requested a delay of the meeting in order to give lawmakers more time to get and analyze financial documents from the county, but Friday French said he and other lawmakers will attend the meeting.
"It's how we address the crisis," French said. "Is it in a slipshod manner or do it and try to get it right the first time?"
The senator is pushing a bill which would set caps for those who pay occupational taxes. French would also like to see those taxes end at on one point, but the Republican lawmaker said he has doubts they will be able to reach an agreement on one bill. Republican lawmakers are also demanding any new tax be tied to mandating the county commission hire a county manager before getting new tax dollars.
Commission President Bettye Fine Collins on Friday continued to blame county lawmakers for the financial crisis. She said lawmakers failed to legally replacing it the tax after it died in 1999.
"We are all the victims by the lack of action of our legislators," Collins said. "For them to continue to with this knowing human suffering will ensue. There is no way in the world they can blame anybody but themselves when the day is done."
"We didn't create the mess," French said. "The county has known for years this day was coming. It's our job to remedy the mess."
Up to 67% of county workers are expected to be put on administrative leave without pay by August 1st because of the lost revenue.
Judges, sheriff and district attorney to meet Monday
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Judges, the sheriff and district attorney of Jefferson County will meet Monday to discuss the county's financial crisis.
FOX6 News learned Friday afternoon all of the county's circuit judges, Sheriff Mike Hale, and District Attorney Brandon Falls will meet at noon Monday in Judge Scott Vowell's courtroom to discuss the county's financial problems.
The county commission this week said there may not be enough money to make payroll in two weeks, which could force many county agencies to cut back on services in the courthouses.
The county commission is preparing to cut spending as much as 67 percent in some departments to offset the loss of the county's occupational tax which a judge ruled earlier this year unconstitutional.
Commissioners are asking the state legislature for help in passing a new occupational tax, but lawmakers from Jefferson County have yet to agree on how to structure the new tax and who should pay it.
The lawmakers are also scheduled to meet Monday in a seperate meeting. Gov. Bob Riley has said if the lawmakers reach an agreement, then he will call a special session to get the new tax passed.
FOX6 News learned Friday afternoon all of the county's circuit judges, Sheriff Mike Hale, and District Attorney Brandon Falls will meet at noon Monday in Judge Scott Vowell's courtroom to discuss the county's financial problems.
The county commission this week said there may not be enough money to make payroll in two weeks, which could force many county agencies to cut back on services in the courthouses.
The county commission is preparing to cut spending as much as 67 percent in some departments to offset the loss of the county's occupational tax which a judge ruled earlier this year unconstitutional.
Commissioners are asking the state legislature for help in passing a new occupational tax, but lawmakers from Jefferson County have yet to agree on how to structure the new tax and who should pay it.
The lawmakers are also scheduled to meet Monday in a seperate meeting. Gov. Bob Riley has said if the lawmakers reach an agreement, then he will call a special session to get the new tax passed.
Man in custody after stabbing two police officers
BRIGHTON, AL (WBRC) - The Jefferson County Sheriff's Department is holding a man in custody for allegedly stabbing two Brighton police officers.
Investigators say Stevenson Paul Ruffin stabbed one officer in the leg and the other in the groin area.
Ruffin was hospitalized with injuries he received while the officers were trying to get the knife from him.
Investigators say Stevenson Paul Ruffin stabbed one officer in the leg and the other in the groin area.
Ruffin was hospitalized with injuries he received while the officers were trying to get the knife from him.
Couple found dead inside car
STUDDARDS CROSSING, AL (WBRC) - Fayette County’s Sheriff Department says a couple was found dead inside a car.
Investigators say Jennifer and Brent Nairemore's bodies were found in the Studdards Crossings community along Highway 102 and County Road 18.
Detectives are not revealing how the two were killed, but they say guns were found on the scene.
Investigators say Jennifer and Brent Nairemore's bodies were found in the Studdards Crossings community along Highway 102 and County Road 18.
Detectives are not revealing how the two were killed, but they say guns were found on the scene.
Former prison guard sentenced to a year for promoting contraband
CENTREVILLE, AL (WBRC) - A judge has sentenced a former state prison guard to a year in the Bibb County Jail.
26-year-old Kenya Morton will plead guilty to charges of promoting prison contraband.
Authorities found marijuana and pain pills on him during a search last year at the Bibb County Correctional Facility.
26-year-old Kenya Morton will plead guilty to charges of promoting prison contraband.
Authorities found marijuana and pain pills on him during a search last year at the Bibb County Correctional Facility.
Apartment complex owner sued over race discrimination
CLANTON, AL (WBRC) - The Justice Department is suing the owner and two employees of an apartment complex in Clanton.
The lawsuit accuses the Rolling Oaks Apartments of discriminating against blacks when renting apartments.
An attorney for the complex says his client strongly denies the accusations. He says ten percent of the tenants are African-American.
The lawsuit accuses the Rolling Oaks Apartments of discriminating against blacks when renting apartments.
An attorney for the complex says his client strongly denies the accusations. He says ten percent of the tenants are African-American.
Police searching for young mother's killer
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Birmingham police are searching for the killer who shot a woman to death in front of her young children.
Police say the killing happened around 11:00 p.m. on Thursday night because of an argument. The victim, 23-year-old Rosetta Smith and her 3 children were sitting at the intersection of Campbell Lane and Trax Drive.
Smith later pulled over in the 4100 block of Trax Drive when a woman walked up to the car and shot her.
Another woman drove Smith to the hospital where she was pronounced dead.
Police are not releasing information on the suspect, except that she was a woman.
Smith's three children, who range from seven-months-old to six-years-old, were not hurt in the shooting.
Police say the killing happened around 11:00 p.m. on Thursday night because of an argument. The victim, 23-year-old Rosetta Smith and her 3 children were sitting at the intersection of Campbell Lane and Trax Drive.
Smith later pulled over in the 4100 block of Trax Drive when a woman walked up to the car and shot her.
Another woman drove Smith to the hospital where she was pronounced dead.
Police are not releasing information on the suspect, except that she was a woman.
Smith's three children, who range from seven-months-old to six-years-old, were not hurt in the shooting.
Gene Chizik at SEC Media Days
HOOVER, AL (WBRC) - Auburn head football coach Gene Chizik said he was excited about the upcoming football season and coaching a program that went undefeated the last time he was there.
Chizik spoke to reporters Friday morning at SEC Media Days at the Wynfrey Hotel in Hoover. Chizik said he wakes up every day thanking God for the chance to be the head coach at Auburn, a program that went undefeated when he last served there as an assistant coach for former head coach Tommy Tuberville.
"It's fun to come back to a place where the last memory you had was an undefeated season," Chizik said.
Chizik said the team is a "work in progress."
"We have a ways to go, but we have a good idea of where we are," Chizik said.
Chizik said the quarterback position remains open.
"We're not ruling anybody out," Chizik said.
Chizik also talked about the "kindergarten rules" he implemented in the spring on the team, demanding the players "do the right thing" and be nice to other people.
"It doesn't take any energy, it doesn't cost anything, it just means doing the right thing, telling the truth," Chizik said. "The kids get sick and tired of hearing it. We talk about it all the time."
"A lot of them don't get it now, but when they do get it, I'll get letters from them - lots of letters."
Chizik was one of four coaches speaking Friday at SEC Media Days. Steve Spurrier of South Carolina, Lane Kiffin of Tennessee, and Les Miles of LSU were also scheduled to speak Friday.
Chizik spoke to reporters Friday morning at SEC Media Days at the Wynfrey Hotel in Hoover. Chizik said he wakes up every day thanking God for the chance to be the head coach at Auburn, a program that went undefeated when he last served there as an assistant coach for former head coach Tommy Tuberville.
"It's fun to come back to a place where the last memory you had was an undefeated season," Chizik said.
Chizik said the team is a "work in progress."
"We have a ways to go, but we have a good idea of where we are," Chizik said.
Chizik said the quarterback position remains open.
"We're not ruling anybody out," Chizik said.
Chizik also talked about the "kindergarten rules" he implemented in the spring on the team, demanding the players "do the right thing" and be nice to other people.
"It doesn't take any energy, it doesn't cost anything, it just means doing the right thing, telling the truth," Chizik said. "The kids get sick and tired of hearing it. We talk about it all the time."
"A lot of them don't get it now, but when they do get it, I'll get letters from them - lots of letters."
Chizik was one of four coaches speaking Friday at SEC Media Days. Steve Spurrier of South Carolina, Lane Kiffin of Tennessee, and Les Miles of LSU were also scheduled to speak Friday.
Smitherman: County meeting will not be postponed
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Alabama State Senator Rodger Smitherman tells FOX6 News he will not cancel a meeting on Monday to come to a consensus on a new occupational tax for Jefferson County.
Seven Republican lawmakers had asked to postpone the meeting so they could review financial information from the county before deciding on the new tax.
Smitherman says the meeting will go on as scheduled on Monday from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m..
Seven Republican lawmakers had asked to postpone the meeting so they could review financial information from the county before deciding on the new tax.
Smitherman says the meeting will go on as scheduled on Monday from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m..
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Sheriff offers budget cuts, judge wants more
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Jefferson County Sheriff Mike Hale said Thursday he has offered to cut nearly $3 million from his budget, but a judge has asked him to look for more money to cut.
Sheriff Hale, his attorneys, and attorneys for the Jefferson County Commission met behind closed doors Thursday afternoon with Judge Joseph Boohaker to discuss negotiations over the sheriff's budget. The judge last week refused to let county commissioners take $5.1 million from the sheriff's budget, but ordered both sides to sit down and discuss ways to reduce the sheriff's budget.
After Thursday's meeting, Sheriff Hale said he offered to cut $2.9 million from his budget, but said Judge Boohaker asked him to go back and look at other cost-cutting options, including overtime. Sheriff Hale said Judge Boohaker wanted everyone to return to court next Wednesday morning.
Two weeks ago, the county commission took $5.1 million from Sheriff Hale's budget as part of its effort to reduce costs in the wake of losing millions of dollars from the county's occupational tax which another judge ruled earlier this year illegal. Last week, though, Judge Boohaker ordered the county to put the $5.1 million back in Sheriff Hale's budget after Sheriff Hale sued saying the budget cuts were illegal and endangered the safety of county citizens. Judge Boohaker did order both sides to sit down and discuss ways to cut the budget.
Sheriff Hale, his attorneys, and attorneys for the Jefferson County Commission met behind closed doors Thursday afternoon with Judge Joseph Boohaker to discuss negotiations over the sheriff's budget. The judge last week refused to let county commissioners take $5.1 million from the sheriff's budget, but ordered both sides to sit down and discuss ways to reduce the sheriff's budget.
After Thursday's meeting, Sheriff Hale said he offered to cut $2.9 million from his budget, but said Judge Boohaker asked him to go back and look at other cost-cutting options, including overtime. Sheriff Hale said Judge Boohaker wanted everyone to return to court next Wednesday morning.
Two weeks ago, the county commission took $5.1 million from Sheriff Hale's budget as part of its effort to reduce costs in the wake of losing millions of dollars from the county's occupational tax which another judge ruled earlier this year illegal. Last week, though, Judge Boohaker ordered the county to put the $5.1 million back in Sheriff Hale's budget after Sheriff Hale sued saying the budget cuts were illegal and endangered the safety of county citizens. Judge Boohaker did order both sides to sit down and discuss ways to cut the budget.
Negotiations begin between Jefferson County Commissioners and sheriff
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - The negotiations between the Jefferson County Commission and Sheriff Mike Hale are now underway.
Hale and the commission are meeting in Judge Joseph Boohaker’s chambers to attempt to come to an agreement over cuts to the sheriff’s office.
The sheriff’s office tells MyFoxAL.com that the Sheriff is offering to cut just under $3 million. It remains unclear whether this will help Jefferson County.
This comes after Judge Boohaker ruled in an earlier lawsuit that the Commission could not take $5 million dollars from the sheriff’s budget.
Hale and the commission are meeting in Judge Joseph Boohaker’s chambers to attempt to come to an agreement over cuts to the sheriff’s office.
The sheriff’s office tells MyFoxAL.com that the Sheriff is offering to cut just under $3 million. It remains unclear whether this will help Jefferson County.
This comes after Judge Boohaker ruled in an earlier lawsuit that the Commission could not take $5 million dollars from the sheriff’s budget.
Shooting suspect extradited back to Alabama
FAIRFIELD, AL (WBRC) - A first call hearing for a man accused of murdering a Fairfield jeweler.
Edward Morsby was captured in Virginia a day after Lee Duong was killed inside his store. Police say Morsby and Perry Cauthen, Jr. robbed Duong and then shot and killed him. Both suspects face criminal murder charges. Authorities say he was wearing a t-shirt that said "I’m the one that got away.”
Officers extradited Morsby back to Fairfield around 11:00 a.m. on Thursday.
Edward Morsby was captured in Virginia a day after Lee Duong was killed inside his store. Police say Morsby and Perry Cauthen, Jr. robbed Duong and then shot and killed him. Both suspects face criminal murder charges. Authorities say he was wearing a t-shirt that said "I’m the one that got away.”
Officers extradited Morsby back to Fairfield around 11:00 a.m. on Thursday.
East Alabama town fights for main employer
WADLEY, AL (WBRC) - An east Alabama town is rallying to save a manufacturing plant that employs virtually everyone who lives there.
Union leaders, elected officials and workers scheduled a march today to save plantation patterns. The plant makes wrought-iron furniture in the Randolph County town of Wadley. The factory is owned by Birmingham-based Meadowcraft, which filed for bankruptcy.
Protesters want to convince lenders to allow more time for the company's current management to come up with financing to purchase Meadowcraft and keep the plant open.
Wadley Mayor Jim Dabbs said the furniture plant employs more than 500 of the town's 650 residents, and a shutdown would be devastating.
Union leaders, elected officials and workers scheduled a march today to save plantation patterns. The plant makes wrought-iron furniture in the Randolph County town of Wadley. The factory is owned by Birmingham-based Meadowcraft, which filed for bankruptcy.
Protesters want to convince lenders to allow more time for the company's current management to come up with financing to purchase Meadowcraft and keep the plant open.
Wadley Mayor Jim Dabbs said the furniture plant employs more than 500 of the town's 650 residents, and a shutdown would be devastating.
Charges dropped against man whose dogs were shot by police
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Charges have been dropped against a man charged with disorderly conduct and violating the leash law.
It all stems from a Birmingham police officer who shot two of their dogs behind their condominium in Birmingham’s Southside last June.
The city prosecutor apologized to Rusty Crawford and his companion, Leisa Bunn. Charges were dismissed against Bunn last week.
It all stems from a Birmingham police officer who shot two of their dogs behind their condominium in Birmingham’s Southside last June.
The city prosecutor apologized to Rusty Crawford and his companion, Leisa Bunn. Charges were dismissed against Bunn last week.
State troopers investigate death of man struck by 18-wheeler
TUSCALOOSA, AL (WBRC) - Alabama state troopers are investigating the death of a pedestrian struck and killed by an 18 wheeler in Tuscaloosa.
It happened shortly after eight Thursday morning between exit 71 and 72 on Interstate 20/59.
Troopers have yet to release the victim's identity.
It happened shortly after eight Thursday morning between exit 71 and 72 on Interstate 20/59.
Troopers have yet to release the victim's identity.
People camp out for free Chik-fil-A for a year
NORTHPORT, AL (WBRC) - It is a cool deal for folks who waited outside a new Chik-fil-a restaurant. Breakfast, lunch and dinner is free for a year.
More than a hundred people spent the night outside the new Chik-fil-a in Northport. The restaurant opened this morning.
The first one hundred people in line got a one-year supply of free Chik-fil-a meals.
More than a hundred people spent the night outside the new Chik-fil-a in Northport. The restaurant opened this morning.
The first one hundred people in line got a one-year supply of free Chik-fil-a meals.
Jeffco courts, Birmingham elections may be in jeopardy
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Jefferson County's financial crisis could force county courts to shut down in two weeks, according to commission president Bettye Fine Collins.
Collins, in a Thursday meeting, said the county may not have enough security to operate the courts safely, because the county may put up to 67% of the workforce on administrative leave.
Collins also said the county may not be able to get voting machines ready for Birmingham's muncipal elections in August. The commission president says after Friday's payroll, the county will only have 2 million dollars left in the payroll account.
A meeting between Jefferson County Sheriff Mike Hale and the commission will take place Thursday afternoon at 1:30 before Judge Joseph Boohaker. The judge ordered both sides to come to the meeting table and work out an operational plan, after the judge sided with Sheriff Hale, saying the county should not have cut his budget.
All of this troubling financial news is because the county's 0.5% occupational tax was ruled illegal. Governor Bob Riley has agreed to call a special session to help the county pass a new tax, but only if legislators come to an agreement first.
FOX6 News will have more on today's developing news from Jefferson County tonight on our newscasts at 5:00 and 6:00.
Nick Saban arrives at SEC Media Days
HOOVER, AL (WBRC) - University of Alabama Head Coach Nick Saban has arrived at SEC Media Days at the Wynfrey Hotel in Hoover. Many Alabama fans have attended Media Days in hopes of getting to talk to the coach or grab an autograph.
During his time in the spotlight, Saban says he is happy to get back to work after his vacation. He says he is looking forward to the season and will be working to challenge his team to be the best it can be.
The coach also brought up that he will be challenged in trying to keep his team from getting distracted. He says it is a problem evidenced by the events of last season's bowl game.
Also speaking at Media Days on Thursday will be coaches and players from Florida, Ole Miss and Georgia.
Arkansas, Vanderbilt, Mississippi State, and Kentucky were highlighted on Wednesday.
Auburn, LSU, Tennessee, and South Carolina will round out the final day of the event.
During his time in the spotlight, Saban says he is happy to get back to work after his vacation. He says he is looking forward to the season and will be working to challenge his team to be the best it can be.
The coach also brought up that he will be challenged in trying to keep his team from getting distracted. He says it is a problem evidenced by the events of last season's bowl game.
Also speaking at Media Days on Thursday will be coaches and players from Florida, Ole Miss and Georgia.
Arkansas, Vanderbilt, Mississippi State, and Kentucky were highlighted on Wednesday.
Auburn, LSU, Tennessee, and South Carolina will round out the final day of the event.
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
New charges arise in beating death of Eufaula boy
BOSTON, MASS (WBRC) - New charges arise in the beating death case of a seven-year-old boy from Eufaula.
Massachusetts police have charged the girlfriend of the child's father.
Seven-year-old Nathaniel Turner was visiting his father Leslie Schuler in Massachusetts when police say Schuler beat him to death on Fathers Day. Schuler has plead not guilty to the murder.
Schuler's girlfriend Tiffany Hyman now faces charges of being an accessory, reckless endangerment and assault. Police say they do not believe she struck Nathaniel, but could have intervened.
Massachusetts police have charged the girlfriend of the child's father.
Seven-year-old Nathaniel Turner was visiting his father Leslie Schuler in Massachusetts when police say Schuler beat him to death on Fathers Day. Schuler has plead not guilty to the murder.
Schuler's girlfriend Tiffany Hyman now faces charges of being an accessory, reckless endangerment and assault. Police say they do not believe she struck Nathaniel, but could have intervened.
Sue Schmitz to be sentenced in Decatur
DECATUR, AL (WBRC) - Former State Rep. Sue Schmitz is set to be sentenced in Decatur for her conviction on federal fraud charges.
Her attorneys have asked that she be allowed to serve any sentence on probation, home confinement or by doing community service.
Schmitz was accused of using her political connections to get a job with Alabama's two-year college system and then rarely showing up for work.
Her attorneys have asked that she be allowed to serve any sentence on probation, home confinement or by doing community service.
Schmitz was accused of using her political connections to get a job with Alabama's two-year college system and then rarely showing up for work.
Governor plans for special session to focus on Jefferson County
MONTGOMERY, AL (WBRC) - Governor Bob Riley plans to focus a special session in the legislature on Jefferson County's financial problems.
The Governor says that is because it is critical to find a solution before the county has to stop services that are essential for the area.
Riley says he will call the special session as soon as Jefferson County legislators agree on a plan to resolve the budget crisis.
The Governor says that is because it is critical to find a solution before the county has to stop services that are essential for the area.
Riley says he will call the special session as soon as Jefferson County legislators agree on a plan to resolve the budget crisis.
Two teens charged in fatal accident
GRAYSON VALLEY, AL (WBRC) - The Jefferson County Sheriff's Office tell MyFoxAL.com that two sixteen-year-olds are facing charges after being involved in a fatal accident in Grayson Valley.
The accident happened in June when a Nissan Maxima driven by one of the teens struck a Chevrolet Blazer driven by the other teen. The Blazer lost control and struck 67-year-old Renate Dahnke Easley, killing her. Easley had apparently been struck while retrieving her mail.
A 17-year-old passenger in the Blazer was ejected from the vehicle and had to be airlifted to UAB. His injuries are thought to be non-life threatening. The driver of the Blazer was also taken to UAB with non-life threatening injuries. The driver of the Maxima was unharmed.
Both drivers have now been charged with Criminally Negligent Homicide.
The parents of both drivers have arranged to have them surrender on these charges.
The accident happened in June when a Nissan Maxima driven by one of the teens struck a Chevrolet Blazer driven by the other teen. The Blazer lost control and struck 67-year-old Renate Dahnke Easley, killing her. Easley had apparently been struck while retrieving her mail.
A 17-year-old passenger in the Blazer was ejected from the vehicle and had to be airlifted to UAB. His injuries are thought to be non-life threatening. The driver of the Blazer was also taken to UAB with non-life threatening injuries. The driver of the Maxima was unharmed.
Both drivers have now been charged with Criminally Negligent Homicide.
The parents of both drivers have arranged to have them surrender on these charges.
Possible new setback for Jefferson County finance problems
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - There may be a setback coming to the solution to Jefferson County's financial woes.
State Senator Steve French has asked for a delay of a Monday meeting between lawmakers to decide on a new occupational tax. The lawmakers are expected to reach a consensus at this meeting.
Lawmakers are demanding financial records from the county and want to have time to study these records before making a decision.
This comes as the county is looking at laying off 67% of its workforce.
State Senator Steve French has asked for a delay of a Monday meeting between lawmakers to decide on a new occupational tax. The lawmakers are expected to reach a consensus at this meeting.
Lawmakers are demanding financial records from the county and want to have time to study these records before making a decision.
This comes as the county is looking at laying off 67% of its workforce.
Langford seeks to delay corruption trial
BIRMIGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Mayor Larry Langford's defense attorneys are seeking to delay his public corruption trial until November.
The trial is set to begin August 31st.
Langford is named in a 101-count indictment, alleging conspiracy, bribery, fraud and filing false tax returns. Investment banker Bill Blount and lobbyist Al Lapierre, are also named in the indictment.
The trial is set to begin August 31st.
Langford is named in a 101-count indictment, alleging conspiracy, bribery, fraud and filing false tax returns. Investment banker Bill Blount and lobbyist Al Lapierre, are also named in the indictment.
Overturned tractor trailer on I-59
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - A tractor trailer has overturned on I-59 southbound.
The accident happened just before the intersection with I-65.
It has been reported that the driver has been injured, but the extent of his injuries are unknown.
The wrecked truck is leaking diesel fuel. Officials are trying to clean up the spill.
Police and an ambulance are on the scene.
The accident happened just before the intersection with I-65.
It has been reported that the driver has been injured, but the extent of his injuries are unknown.
The wrecked truck is leaking diesel fuel. Officials are trying to clean up the spill.
Police and an ambulance are on the scene.
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Langford, council talk unicorns, city budget
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Birmingham Mayor Larry Langford, in a show of solidarity, gave Birmingham City Councilors all unicorns at Tuesday’s meeting.
Last week, Council President Carole Smitherman compared the projected revenues for the 2010 budget to believing in unicorns. So, Langford decided to give all councilors a figurine of the imaginary animal.
"I got to looking at the history of that unicorn," Langford told councilors. “The unicorn is a symbol of magic.”
The magic, spoken of by Carole Smitherman, was referring to 2010 projected revenues in Langford’s original budget. Langford says instead of disagreeing, he wanted to say thanks by giving out the unicorns.
The mayor also spoke of all the projects he and councilors has achieved during his tenor as mayor.
But Tuesday, councilors delayed the 2010 budget by another month. Council President Carole Smitherman hopes it will get done sooner.
"I can't say enough, we have to pass a budget," Smitherman said. Late Monday, Smitherman released a fourth version of the budget, putting the ‘at question’ $26 million in a fund balance, or savings account, until a state audit is completed. The intent for the audit was unanimously passed Tuesday.
"We would like to know what's actually in the bank account for the money,” Councilor Carol Duncan said. “And continue to grow the city in the direction we need to grow in the next few years."
Councilor Jonathan Austin is concerned about the entire process taking entirely too long. “We need to have a budget in place right now," Austin said late Tuesday. “We’re operating on a budget that's $13 million more than what was presented to us."
Councilors will consider scheduling another budget workshop to try and iron out the 2010 budget this week. Stay tuned to FOX 6 for the latest developments.
Last week, Council President Carole Smitherman compared the projected revenues for the 2010 budget to believing in unicorns. So, Langford decided to give all councilors a figurine of the imaginary animal.
"I got to looking at the history of that unicorn," Langford told councilors. “The unicorn is a symbol of magic.”
The magic, spoken of by Carole Smitherman, was referring to 2010 projected revenues in Langford’s original budget. Langford says instead of disagreeing, he wanted to say thanks by giving out the unicorns.
The mayor also spoke of all the projects he and councilors has achieved during his tenor as mayor.
But Tuesday, councilors delayed the 2010 budget by another month. Council President Carole Smitherman hopes it will get done sooner.
"I can't say enough, we have to pass a budget," Smitherman said. Late Monday, Smitherman released a fourth version of the budget, putting the ‘at question’ $26 million in a fund balance, or savings account, until a state audit is completed. The intent for the audit was unanimously passed Tuesday.
"We would like to know what's actually in the bank account for the money,” Councilor Carol Duncan said. “And continue to grow the city in the direction we need to grow in the next few years."
Councilor Jonathan Austin is concerned about the entire process taking entirely too long. “We need to have a budget in place right now," Austin said late Tuesday. “We’re operating on a budget that's $13 million more than what was presented to us."
Councilors will consider scheduling another budget workshop to try and iron out the 2010 budget this week. Stay tuned to FOX 6 for the latest developments.
Jefferson County employees react to unpaid leave
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Mary Sexton works in Environmental services for Jefferson County. Sexton says even though no county worker is being fired, being sent home without a pay check will hurt.
"We got to get another job," Sexton says. "Most people live pay check to pay check. We don't have the big pay checks to keep holding on and on."
Tuesday the Jefferson County Commission rejected a plan to lay off 200 laborers. Instead the commissioners supported putting them on immediately on administrative leave without pay for up to six weeks starting August 1.
"It's horrible situation," said Jefferson County Commission President Bettye Fine Collins. "I think the real story here it could have been avoided. It should have never happened."
The commissioner is blaming Jefferson County lawmakers for killing the occupational tax in 1999 and for failing to legally replace it. Still Collins hopes the lawmakers will finally approve a new job tax in a special session in about two weeks.
"We are going to take care business," Collins said. "If we are going to have a county run by a skeletal crew, it's going to happen."
Commissioner Shelia Smoot agrees Jefferson County will be more of a skeleton operation.
"Things are going to be scaled back on things to do business," Smoot said. "Basically what it means is a smaller, minute government maybe the size of Gardendale."
Meanwhile how are county employees feeling about the changes? "Sad. Angry. Lost faith in the county," says Sexton.
"We got to get another job," Sexton says. "Most people live pay check to pay check. We don't have the big pay checks to keep holding on and on."
Tuesday the Jefferson County Commission rejected a plan to lay off 200 laborers. Instead the commissioners supported putting them on immediately on administrative leave without pay for up to six weeks starting August 1.
"It's horrible situation," said Jefferson County Commission President Bettye Fine Collins. "I think the real story here it could have been avoided. It should have never happened."
The commissioner is blaming Jefferson County lawmakers for killing the occupational tax in 1999 and for failing to legally replace it. Still Collins hopes the lawmakers will finally approve a new job tax in a special session in about two weeks.
"We are going to take care business," Collins said. "If we are going to have a county run by a skeletal crew, it's going to happen."
Commissioner Shelia Smoot agrees Jefferson County will be more of a skeleton operation.
"Things are going to be scaled back on things to do business," Smoot said. "Basically what it means is a smaller, minute government maybe the size of Gardendale."
Meanwhile how are county employees feeling about the changes? "Sad. Angry. Lost faith in the county," says Sexton.
New car tags made available to veterans
MONTGOMERY, AL (WBRC) - Governor Bob Riley is supporting our troops with two new car tags.
Alabama military veterans who served in Afghanistan and Iraq soon will be able to get license plates recognizing their service.
The new tags will become available for veterans of the wars on August first.
Alabama military veterans who served in Afghanistan and Iraq soon will be able to get license plates recognizing their service.
The new tags will become available for veterans of the wars on August first.
Judge orders Walker County bingo hall closed
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - A Jefferson County Circuit Court judge has ordered a Walker County bingo hall to close immediately.
The judge issued the order against Helping Hands Charity Bingo after ruling its operation had not complied with county law.
Helping Hands official Annette Graveman says the hall had shut down after getting the judge's order late Monday morning.
The judge issued the order against Helping Hands Charity Bingo after ruling its operation had not complied with county law.
Helping Hands official Annette Graveman says the hall had shut down after getting the judge's order late Monday morning.
67% of Jefferson County's workforce may be placed on unpaid leave
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - The Jefferson County Commission voted Tuesday not to lay off 207 laborers, but Commission president Bettye Fine Collins said the county will seek to put 67% of the county's 3,000 member workforce on administrative leave by August 1st in an effort to reduce costs.
The four commissioners present Tuesday voted for the unpaid leave instead of laying off the laborers as it had originally planned. The move allows the employees to keep their health benefits and gives the county the option of reinstating the employees if its financial problems are resolved.
The commission also voted unamimously to suspend merit pay raises.
The commission is cutting millions of dollars from its budget after a judge earlier this year ruled the county's occupational tax unconstitutional
County commission votes unpaid leave, no layoffs
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - The Jefferson County Commission voted unanimously Tuesday morning to put more than 200 employees on unpaid administrative leave in an effort to reduce costs.
The four commissioners present Tuesday voted for the unpaid leave instead of laying off the employees as it had originally planned. The move allows the employees to keep their health benefits and gives the county the option of reinstating the employees if its financial problems are resolved.
The commission also voted unamimously to suspend merit pay raises.
The commission is cutting millions of dollars from its budget after a judge earlier this year ruled the county's occupational tax unconstitutional.
The four commissioners present Tuesday voted for the unpaid leave instead of laying off the employees as it had originally planned. The move allows the employees to keep their health benefits and gives the county the option of reinstating the employees if its financial problems are resolved.
The commission also voted unamimously to suspend merit pay raises.
The commission is cutting millions of dollars from its budget after a judge earlier this year ruled the county's occupational tax unconstitutional.
Birmingham City Council to consider 4th proposed budget
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - It is a race against time for the Birmingham City Council. On Tuesday, they will consider a 4th proposed budget for 2010.
The new proposal includes placing 26 million dollars in a fund balance until the audit is complete. The reason for the fund balance is that the City Council and Mayor Larry Langford have been arguing over that amount of money. Langford says that there is 26 million dollars left over from last year. Some city councilors disagree. Both sides have asked for an auditor.
The one thing that the city council has decided on is funding for a domed stadium.
The city is still operating under the 2009 budget and plans to meet Tuesday to vote on the new budget.
Another item on the agenda for the city council, will be a plan to improve the city's transit system.
Mayor Larry Langford says the city can get 4-million dollars a year in transit funding through online ticket agencies.
On Monday, Langford said booking agencies are not paying the city revenue it deserves. His solution involves partnering with magiccitytix.com, a local company. Under his plan, the company would pay the city five dollars per ticket booked on its site.
The new proposal includes placing 26 million dollars in a fund balance until the audit is complete. The reason for the fund balance is that the City Council and Mayor Larry Langford have been arguing over that amount of money. Langford says that there is 26 million dollars left over from last year. Some city councilors disagree. Both sides have asked for an auditor.
The one thing that the city council has decided on is funding for a domed stadium.
The city is still operating under the 2009 budget and plans to meet Tuesday to vote on the new budget.
Another item on the agenda for the city council, will be a plan to improve the city's transit system.
Mayor Larry Langford says the city can get 4-million dollars a year in transit funding through online ticket agencies.
On Monday, Langford said booking agencies are not paying the city revenue it deserves. His solution involves partnering with magiccitytix.com, a local company. Under his plan, the company would pay the city five dollars per ticket booked on its site.
Monday, July 20, 2009
Collins: budget cuts near 44 percent
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Jefferson County department and elected officials are bracing for budget cuts of 44 percent, not the 33 percent expected earlier this year.
Jefferson County Commission President Bettye Fine Collins met with elected officials Monday to give the bad news.
"This is the tip of the iceberg if the sheriff's effort is successful," Collins said.
Jefferson County Circuit Judge Joseph Boohaker ruled in favor of Sheriff Mike Hale last week, barring the county from spending $5 million taken from the sheriff's budget because of funding problems.
None of these proposed cuts are finalized, but Collins wants the county ready if Boohaker prevents any cuts to the sheriff's budget. Collins said she is not convinced the county can make payroll in two weeks, even with these cuts.
"If the judge exempts the sheriff from our control that's what they will have to cut in addition to what they already cut," Collins said. "Even with that there is talk we may not be able to make the August 7th payroll."
Jefferson County District Attorney Brandon Fallls said Monday if he has to take another $100,000 cut, it will be more difficult for him to prosecute criminals in the county.
"Less personnel to prepare a case, help us get ready to for court," Falls said. "I hope it doesn't come to that."
Jefferson County Tax Collector J.T. Smallwood said if his budget is cut by almost $100,000, it will mean a reduction in service and longer lines.
"We anticipated these cuts," Smallwood said. "Nothing we can do about it. We will do what we can with what we have and keep working hard to do our job."
Jefferson County Commission President Bettye Fine Collins met with elected officials Monday to give the bad news.
"This is the tip of the iceberg if the sheriff's effort is successful," Collins said.
Jefferson County Circuit Judge Joseph Boohaker ruled in favor of Sheriff Mike Hale last week, barring the county from spending $5 million taken from the sheriff's budget because of funding problems.
None of these proposed cuts are finalized, but Collins wants the county ready if Boohaker prevents any cuts to the sheriff's budget. Collins said she is not convinced the county can make payroll in two weeks, even with these cuts.
"If the judge exempts the sheriff from our control that's what they will have to cut in addition to what they already cut," Collins said. "Even with that there is talk we may not be able to make the August 7th payroll."
Jefferson County District Attorney Brandon Fallls said Monday if he has to take another $100,000 cut, it will be more difficult for him to prosecute criminals in the county.
"Less personnel to prepare a case, help us get ready to for court," Falls said. "I hope it doesn't come to that."
Jefferson County Tax Collector J.T. Smallwood said if his budget is cut by almost $100,000, it will mean a reduction in service and longer lines.
"We anticipated these cuts," Smallwood said. "Nothing we can do about it. We will do what we can with what we have and keep working hard to do our job."
Langford proposes financial help for mass transit
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Birmingham Mayor Larry Langford said Monday he wants to use money from city events to fund a failing transit system.
Langford said national online ticketing agencies that book events in Birmingham aren’t paying the city revenues it deserves. So at a committee meeting Monday, Langford suggested the city partner with www.magiccitytix.com, a local company.
If councilors pass the agreement between the two, the company would pay the city $5 for every ticket to a Birmingham-event booked on its site. Langford says a projected $4.2 million would be earmarked specifically to fix the transit system.
"With the domed stadium now coming into play, we have got to have a public transportation system that really works, Langford said. “Magic City Tickets paying the city 4.2 million, earmark it for transit, that is the beginning of my efforts trying to improve transportation in the city."
Langford also said the first thing Birmingham has to do is create a system that runs every 10-15 minutes, like clockwork, on time. “Clean buses, street cars, trolleys, I'm not talking about a bus system, I'm talking about a public transportation system that encompasses both buses, street cars, trolleys,” Langford said.
Councilors will be asked to vote on the agreement, which Langford says costs the city nothing, at Tuesday’s city council meeting.
Langford said national online ticketing agencies that book events in Birmingham aren’t paying the city revenues it deserves. So at a committee meeting Monday, Langford suggested the city partner with www.magiccitytix.com, a local company.
If councilors pass the agreement between the two, the company would pay the city $5 for every ticket to a Birmingham-event booked on its site. Langford says a projected $4.2 million would be earmarked specifically to fix the transit system.
"With the domed stadium now coming into play, we have got to have a public transportation system that really works, Langford said. “Magic City Tickets paying the city 4.2 million, earmark it for transit, that is the beginning of my efforts trying to improve transportation in the city."
Langford also said the first thing Birmingham has to do is create a system that runs every 10-15 minutes, like clockwork, on time. “Clean buses, street cars, trolleys, I'm not talking about a bus system, I'm talking about a public transportation system that encompasses both buses, street cars, trolleys,” Langford said.
Councilors will be asked to vote on the agreement, which Langford says costs the city nothing, at Tuesday’s city council meeting.
Hayden ballpark gets $15,000 donation
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - The West Blount Park in Hayden has hit a homerun for it’s kids who play baseball and softball.
Through an online voting contest through Kellogg’s Frosted Flakes, the park got in the Top 30 for money offered to improve ballparks throughout the country. It means Hayden will receive $15,000 to improve it’s facilities.
Right now there are only 3 fields where 450 children play. Park President Danny Reid says the kids need more room to play and he hopes the money will do just that. More than 20,000 votes were cast for Hayden by parents, kids and community members.
Kellogg’s will send a contractor to Hayden to meet with park leaders to help with design work.
Through an online voting contest through Kellogg’s Frosted Flakes, the park got in the Top 30 for money offered to improve ballparks throughout the country. It means Hayden will receive $15,000 to improve it’s facilities.
Right now there are only 3 fields where 450 children play. Park President Danny Reid says the kids need more room to play and he hopes the money will do just that. More than 20,000 votes were cast for Hayden by parents, kids and community members.
Kellogg’s will send a contractor to Hayden to meet with park leaders to help with design work.
Hoover theft suspects identified
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Hoover police identified Monday a man and a woman in connection with stealing a woman's purse and illegally using the victim's credit card.
Hoover police said Alexander Curren, 28, of Hoover, and Charlotte Marie Maher, 32, of Birmingham, were charged with theft and fraudulent use of credit. The pair were identified after FOX6 News aired surveillance video of the pair earlier this month.
Investigators said the pair stole a wallet from a Wal-Mart customer on June 28. From there, the pair went to Publix at Lee Branch and used one of the victim's credit cards to purchase gift cards.
Hoover police said Alexander Curren, 28, of Hoover, and Charlotte Marie Maher, 32, of Birmingham, were charged with theft and fraudulent use of credit. The pair were identified after FOX6 News aired surveillance video of the pair earlier this month.
Investigators said the pair stole a wallet from a Wal-Mart customer on June 28. From there, the pair went to Publix at Lee Branch and used one of the victim's credit cards to purchase gift cards.
Sheriff, commission president meet over budget
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Jefferson County Sheriff Mike Hale and County Commission President Bettye Fine Collins met behind closed doors Monday afternoon to discuss proposed budget cuts.
Hale arrived at the courthouse at 2 p.m. where he and Collins began meeting privately in the commission's conference room. They met for almost an hour.
After the meeting, Collins said progress was made. Hale agreed, saying he learned some things he did not know about the county's finances.
Hale said if he gave back the $5 million cut by the commission from his budget, it would still not be enough to pay for county employees and sheriff's deputies. Hale said the legislature needed to act quickly or the county would run out of money very soon.
Hale and Collins were ordered last week by a judge to sit down and discuss budget cuts. Circuit Judge Joseph Boohaker ordered the meeting after refusing to let the commission take more than $5 million from the sheriff's budget.
The commission cut millions of dollars from county departments, including the sheriff's department, after another judge ruled earlier this year the county's occupational tax was unconstitutional.
Hale said he and Collins did discuss some areas of his budget that could be cut. He said their attorneys would have more meetings and a report would be to give to the judge on Thursday.
Hale arrived at the courthouse at 2 p.m. where he and Collins began meeting privately in the commission's conference room. They met for almost an hour.
After the meeting, Collins said progress was made. Hale agreed, saying he learned some things he did not know about the county's finances.
Hale said if he gave back the $5 million cut by the commission from his budget, it would still not be enough to pay for county employees and sheriff's deputies. Hale said the legislature needed to act quickly or the county would run out of money very soon.
Hale and Collins were ordered last week by a judge to sit down and discuss budget cuts. Circuit Judge Joseph Boohaker ordered the meeting after refusing to let the commission take more than $5 million from the sheriff's budget.
The commission cut millions of dollars from county departments, including the sheriff's department, after another judge ruled earlier this year the county's occupational tax was unconstitutional.
Hale said he and Collins did discuss some areas of his budget that could be cut. He said their attorneys would have more meetings and a report would be to give to the judge on Thursday.
Alabama prepares for upcoming sales tax holiday
MONTGOMERY, AL (WBRC) - Alabama is getting ready for its fourth annual sales tax holiday.
It will take place August seventh through the ninth.
The state government is waiving its 4% sales tax on back-to-school items purchased.
The state revenue department reports that many cities and counties are also waving their local sales taxes for the weekend.
Jefferson County is one of the areas not participating this year. County officials say the anticipated $200,000 in sales taxes that will be collected that weekend will be enough to save seven jobs in the financially troubled county.
It will take place August seventh through the ninth.
The state government is waiving its 4% sales tax on back-to-school items purchased.
The state revenue department reports that many cities and counties are also waving their local sales taxes for the weekend.
Jefferson County is one of the areas not participating this year. County officials say the anticipated $200,000 in sales taxes that will be collected that weekend will be enough to save seven jobs in the financially troubled county.
Innocent bystander shot in Birmingham
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Birmingham police say an innocent bystander was shot in the southwest section of town.
Investigators say the man was grazed by a bullet this morning in the 600 block of Lomb Avenue.
The victim drove himself to UAB Hospital and is expected to recover.
Investigators say the man was grazed by a bullet this morning in the 600 block of Lomb Avenue.
The victim drove himself to UAB Hospital and is expected to recover.
Health officials confirm Swine Flu in Cullman
CULLMAN, AL (WBRC) - Alabama health officials confirm the first cases of swine flu for Cullman County.
Two people came down with the illness there.
State health officials say an adult male from Cullman is already making a full recovery.
So far, Alabama has seen 469 cases of the H1N1 virus.
Two people came down with the illness there.
State health officials say an adult male from Cullman is already making a full recovery.
So far, Alabama has seen 469 cases of the H1N1 virus.
Suspect identified in Birmingham homicide
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - A man shot in the head Saturday morning was identified Monday as a suspect in connection with a deadly shooting earlier this month.
Birmingham police said Mohammad Ansari, 33, of Birmingham, was found shot and wounded in a parking lot on 5th Avenue South early Saturday morning. Just hours earlier, investigators had obtained a capital murder warrant against him in connection with a homicide that happened on July 1st in the 800 block of Center Way Southwest.
Police said investigators did not yet know if Saturday's shooting was in connection to the homicide earlier this month.
The suspect was hospitalized Monday morning receiving treatment for his injuries.
Birmingham police said Mohammad Ansari, 33, of Birmingham, was found shot and wounded in a parking lot on 5th Avenue South early Saturday morning. Just hours earlier, investigators had obtained a capital murder warrant against him in connection with a homicide that happened on July 1st in the 800 block of Center Way Southwest.
Police said investigators did not yet know if Saturday's shooting was in connection to the homicide earlier this month.
The suspect was hospitalized Monday morning receiving treatment for his injuries.
Further cuts proposed by Jefferson County Commission
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - The Jefferson County Commission is preparing to make changes to protect the budget for the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Department. These further cuts are proposed after Judge Joseph Boohaker ruled that the County Commission could not cut Sheriff Mike Hale’s budget by five million dollars.
Jefferson County Commission President Bettye Fine Collins will be meeting with department heads on Monday. She is calling for department cuts of 44.7% instead of the originally proposed 33%.
Collins will also be meeting with the Sheriff later on Monday to check on the compromise between the Sheriff and the County Commission.
Some of the new cuts to be introduced include a combined $226-thousand cut to the Birmingham and Bessemer D.A.’s offices, a $975-thousand cut to Roads and Transportation and a $1.1-million cut from General Services.
Jefferson County Commission President Bettye Fine Collins will be meeting with department heads on Monday. She is calling for department cuts of 44.7% instead of the originally proposed 33%.
Collins will also be meeting with the Sheriff later on Monday to check on the compromise between the Sheriff and the County Commission.
Some of the new cuts to be introduced include a combined $226-thousand cut to the Birmingham and Bessemer D.A.’s offices, a $975-thousand cut to Roads and Transportation and a $1.1-million cut from General Services.
Apartment complex suffers 2-alarm blaze
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Birmingham Fire Fighters worked a 2 alarm apartment fire overnight.
Battalion Chief C.W. Mardis says a call went out to the Sandpiper Apartments at 11:53 p.m. Sunday night. Mardis says the fire was not under control until 1:05 a.m. Monday morning.
Forty people were displaced and the American Red Cross was brought in to help.
Mardis says the fire affected 13 units mostly through smoke damage. He also says the cause of the fire appears to be an accident and electrical.
One firefighter suffered minor cuts to his hand but other than him there was no injuries.
Battalion Chief C.W. Mardis says a call went out to the Sandpiper Apartments at 11:53 p.m. Sunday night. Mardis says the fire was not under control until 1:05 a.m. Monday morning.
Forty people were displaced and the American Red Cross was brought in to help.
Mardis says the fire affected 13 units mostly through smoke damage. He also says the cause of the fire appears to be an accident and electrical.
One firefighter suffered minor cuts to his hand but other than him there was no injuries.
Groundbreaking to be held for domed stadium
BIRMIGNHAM, AL (WBRC) - After years of talking about it, Birmingham city leaders will hold an official groundbreaking on Tuesday for the new domed stadium.
The project's current projected price tag is around 630 million dollars and supporters say it could mean thousands of temporary and permanent jobs during and after construction.
Dome opponents question the timing of this project in the midst of a recession and are concerned if taxpayers can afford such a project in the long run.
The groundbreaking for the dome is scheduled for 5:00 p.m. Tuesday afternoon at the site of the project, near the BJCC.
The project's current projected price tag is around 630 million dollars and supporters say it could mean thousands of temporary and permanent jobs during and after construction.
Dome opponents question the timing of this project in the midst of a recession and are concerned if taxpayers can afford such a project in the long run.
The groundbreaking for the dome is scheduled for 5:00 p.m. Tuesday afternoon at the site of the project, near the BJCC.
Jeffco Commissioners not happy with proposed rescue plan
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Jefferson County commissioners are not happy with the proposed rescue plan by local lawmakers.
The proposal would reinstate the occupational tax and include everyone, but would phase out after five years.
Commissioners say that is too quick and believe the new plan would only raise about half the money the county needs.
Commissioner Bettye Fine Collins says she feels like they are being tossed around.
State lawmakers say they want hard numbers before they consider any changes to the proposed plan. Lawmakers will meet again on July 27th.
The proposal would reinstate the occupational tax and include everyone, but would phase out after five years.
Commissioners say that is too quick and believe the new plan would only raise about half the money the county needs.
Commissioner Bettye Fine Collins says she feels like they are being tossed around.
State lawmakers say they want hard numbers before they consider any changes to the proposed plan. Lawmakers will meet again on July 27th.
Mobile woman arrested on murder charge
MOBILE, AL (WBRC) - A Mobile woman has been arrested in the death of a Chickasaw man found bleeding in a vehicle on Interstate 65.
Saraland police say 46-year-old Janet Lynn Wild, who also goes by Janet Lynn Driggers, is being held in the Mobile County Jail on a charge of murder.
Investigators say Wild cut 45-year-old Sylvester Eugene Pugh with a sharp instrument after an argument. Pugh then bled to death.
Saraland police say 46-year-old Janet Lynn Wild, who also goes by Janet Lynn Driggers, is being held in the Mobile County Jail on a charge of murder.
Investigators say Wild cut 45-year-old Sylvester Eugene Pugh with a sharp instrument after an argument. Pugh then bled to death.
Several arrested in Evergreen killing
EVERGREEN, AL (WBRC) - Police have arrested the wife, son, grandson and a friend of a man killed in Evergreen, Alabama over the weekend.
The 74-year-old man was gunned down outside his home. The son was arrested in Michigan and the others in different cities around Alabama.
Police say the couple had started divorce proceedings and there was a 100 thousand dollar insurance policy with the wife as the beneficiary.
All are charged with capital murder and have been denied bond.
The 74-year-old man was gunned down outside his home. The son was arrested in Michigan and the others in different cities around Alabama.
Police say the couple had started divorce proceedings and there was a 100 thousand dollar insurance policy with the wife as the beneficiary.
All are charged with capital murder and have been denied bond.
Historic church celebrates 125 years
WARRIOR, AL (WBRC) - A historic Warrior, AL church celebrated its 125th anniversary Sunday.
The St. James United Methodist Church is known to many locals as "the church at the fork" as it sits at a fork in the road near Main Street.
St. James current building was built in 1969, 6 years after the previous structure was burned to the ground by an arsonist.
The church has served Warrior's African-American community since 1884.
Emma Porter joined the church in 1946 when her husband Oliver Porter, Jr. came to be the pastor. It was Rev. Porter who helped lead the church during the 6 years it met in an abandoned schoolhouse after the fire, and Mrs. Porter said her late husband would have had the same reaction to this milestone as she did: "speechless, there aren't words. Elated," Porter said.
The church has held 4 days of celebration culminating with a Sunday service and dinner on the lawn. Senior members like Porter say they're looking towards the future, not the past.
"I want them to go out and bring in more people so it will be a big better, no not better, couldn't be better, a bigger church," Porter said.
The St. James United Methodist Church is known to many locals as "the church at the fork" as it sits at a fork in the road near Main Street.
St. James current building was built in 1969, 6 years after the previous structure was burned to the ground by an arsonist.
The church has served Warrior's African-American community since 1884.
Emma Porter joined the church in 1946 when her husband Oliver Porter, Jr. came to be the pastor. It was Rev. Porter who helped lead the church during the 6 years it met in an abandoned schoolhouse after the fire, and Mrs. Porter said her late husband would have had the same reaction to this milestone as she did: "speechless, there aren't words. Elated," Porter said.
The church has held 4 days of celebration culminating with a Sunday service and dinner on the lawn. Senior members like Porter say they're looking towards the future, not the past.
"I want them to go out and bring in more people so it will be a big better, no not better, couldn't be better, a bigger church," Porter said.
Friday, July 17, 2009
Hit-and-run victim released from hospital
TUSCALOOSA, AL (WBRC) - It has been a long three weeks for Bill Forward. That is about how long he has been in the hospital since a hit and run driver left him laying in road following his daughter's wedding ceremony.
On Friday, he left the hospital. FOX6 News was there as a nurse wheeled him out to his daughter's car.
Forward suffered two broken legs among several injuries following the hit and run.
It happened June 27th on Greensboro Avenue outside the Battle Friedman House. Forward had just finished walking his daughter down the aisle. He was loading chairs into a truck when someone driving a light covered SUV hit him and kept going. He has been in the hospital ever since.
His recovery is going well. Forward is actually ahead of schedule, but his family wants someone held responsible for the hit and run. They took out a full page ad in Sunday's paper, hoping generate tips in the investigation.
Forward is now heading home to North Carolina.
His family is offering a cash reward for information that leads to an arrest and a conviction.
On Friday, he left the hospital. FOX6 News was there as a nurse wheeled him out to his daughter's car.
Forward suffered two broken legs among several injuries following the hit and run.
It happened June 27th on Greensboro Avenue outside the Battle Friedman House. Forward had just finished walking his daughter down the aisle. He was loading chairs into a truck when someone driving a light covered SUV hit him and kept going. He has been in the hospital ever since.
His recovery is going well. Forward is actually ahead of schedule, but his family wants someone held responsible for the hit and run. They took out a full page ad in Sunday's paper, hoping generate tips in the investigation.
Forward is now heading home to North Carolina.
His family is offering a cash reward for information that leads to an arrest and a conviction.
Alabama unemployment hits double digits
MONTGOMERY, AL (WBRC) - Alabama's unemployment rate has reached double digits.
The State Department of Industrial Relations says Alabama's jobless rate rose to 10.1 percent for June.
The rate had been 9.8 percent in May.
Alabama's unemployment rate was higher than the national measure of 9.5 percent for June.
The State Department of Industrial Relations says Alabama's jobless rate rose to 10.1 percent for June.
The rate had been 9.8 percent in May.
Alabama's unemployment rate was higher than the national measure of 9.5 percent for June.
Bessemer Mayor intends to veto electronic bingo
BESSEMER, AL (WBRC) - Bessemer Mayor Ed May says he intends to veto an electronic bingo ordinance approved by the city council.
The council president says he expects the ordinance to pass at the next meeting on Tuesday and that the council will have enough votes to override the mayor's veto.
Mays said he did not want to see electronic bingo in the city.
He said he saw no good that would come from it.
The council president says he expects the ordinance to pass at the next meeting on Tuesday and that the council will have enough votes to override the mayor's veto.
Mays said he did not want to see electronic bingo in the city.
He said he saw no good that would come from it.
Birmingham schools look to parents for monitoring help
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Parents of Birmingham city school students may soon be helping monitor classrooms.
Some local clergy members went to the city board to discuss a parent run school monitors program.
They explained what kind of applicants they want and which schools they are focusing on.
If you would like more information on the program or want to be involved call Dwayne Thompson at 205 254-6542.
Some local clergy members went to the city board to discuss a parent run school monitors program.
They explained what kind of applicants they want and which schools they are focusing on.
If you would like more information on the program or want to be involved call Dwayne Thompson at 205 254-6542.
Reward increased for information on Nadia Kersh
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - The family of Nadia Kersh announced Friday they had increased the reward for information that would solve her disappearance last year.
In a news conference Friday, Homewood police said the family had added $10,000 to the reward, bringing the total reward to $55,000.
Nadia Kersh disappeared November 3, 2008, after leaving her job at the Tria Market in Homewood for lunch. She never returned, and friends and family became concerned after she never picked up her son from daycare.
Her car was found on November 4 in west Birmingham, and three days later, her purse was found discarded on railroad tracks in West Birmingham.
If you have any information on this case, you are asked to contact the Homewood Police Department at (205) 322-6204.
In a news conference Friday, Homewood police said the family had added $10,000 to the reward, bringing the total reward to $55,000.
Nadia Kersh disappeared November 3, 2008, after leaving her job at the Tria Market in Homewood for lunch. She never returned, and friends and family became concerned after she never picked up her son from daycare.
Her car was found on November 4 in west Birmingham, and three days later, her purse was found discarded on railroad tracks in West Birmingham.
If you have any information on this case, you are asked to contact the Homewood Police Department at (205) 322-6204.
Thursday, July 16, 2009
Birmingham city council delays budget vote
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - The Birmingham City Council voted Thursday to delay passing a 2010 budget, and instead get an audit of the city's finances.
Councilors voted Thursday to operate under the FY 2009 budget until an audit is complete and a new budget is worked out.
Councilors said they fear the city could be as millions of dollars in the red and wanted to find out exactly what funds are in
place before passing a new budget.
The move was made at a Committee of the Whole meeting Thursday afternoon.
Councilors voted Thursday to operate under the FY 2009 budget until an audit is complete and a new budget is worked out.
Councilors said they fear the city could be as millions of dollars in the red and wanted to find out exactly what funds are in
place before passing a new budget.
The move was made at a Committee of the Whole meeting Thursday afternoon.
Sheriff wins budget battle against commission
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - A judge ordered the Jefferson County Commission not to spend more than $5 million it took from the sheriff department's budget, but also ordered the two sides to work out their differences.
Judge Joseph Boohaker ruled Thursday afternoon the commission could not spend the $5.1 million it took last week from the sheriff's budget, but he also ruled Sheriff Mike Hale could not get the money back until both parties sat down and tried to work out a compromise "in good faith."
Judge Boohaker said both the sheriff and the commission have one week to work out their differences and report back to him.
Hale sued the county commission after it cut the sheriff's budget by more than $5 million as part of its budget cuts. Hale said the commission did not have the legal authority
Sheriff Hale asked Judge Boohaker to order the Jefferson County Commission to give back the $5 million it took from his budget last Thursday. Hale also asked the judge to issue a restraining order preventing the county commission not be able to tamper with his budget in the future.
During Wednesday's closing arguments attorney's for the county commission said that the sheriff's department would be able to operate if cuts are made.
Sheriff Hale's attorney told the judge if the sheriff was ordered to cut his budget by $5 million, more than 150 deputies would lose their jobs and public safety would be put at risk.
During testimony, Sheriff Hale said the budget cuts put the public at risk.
"I was representing the people of Jefferson County," Hale said. "I talked about law and order, and safety. I made the case I was elected to make, to keep neighborhoods and communities safe."
Attorneys for Hale provided closing arguements Wednesday in the court battle with the Jefferson County Commission. "The law requires the county to set priorities," said Hale attorney Rob Riley. "At the top of that list is the office of the sheriff."
But Jefferson County Commissioners who testified in the case say if they can't cut the sheriff's budget by $5 million, the county may be open for more lawsuits.
"IT or somebody who does business with IT could sue us," said Commissioner Jim Carns. "Saying IT was cut more than the sheriff's department. Roads and Transportation was cut more. This is a circular firing squad."
Jim Priester, an attorney representing the commissioners, said in his closing the commission has to follow the balanced budget law and the sheriff should be cut just other important county departments.
Some commissioners say Hale's lawsuit and one filed by a patient representative of Cooper Green Mercy Hospital which seeks to keep that facility from cuts and closing is a waste of tax dollars.
"Instead of filing lawsuits, these people need to help us find ways to get through this crisis," said Commissioner Bobby Humphryes.
Commission President Bettye Fine Collins has said without the budget cuts in the sheriff's department, more employees in other county departments will have to be laid off.
"Ya'll know we can't come up with enough cash without jobs being terminated," said Collins.
Collins has asked Governor Bob Riley to declare a state of emergency because of the county's funding problems. Riley said Thursday he did not have the legal authority to do that.
Judge Joseph Boohaker ruled Thursday afternoon the commission could not spend the $5.1 million it took last week from the sheriff's budget, but he also ruled Sheriff Mike Hale could not get the money back until both parties sat down and tried to work out a compromise "in good faith."
Judge Boohaker said both the sheriff and the commission have one week to work out their differences and report back to him.
Hale sued the county commission after it cut the sheriff's budget by more than $5 million as part of its budget cuts. Hale said the commission did not have the legal authority
Sheriff Hale asked Judge Boohaker to order the Jefferson County Commission to give back the $5 million it took from his budget last Thursday. Hale also asked the judge to issue a restraining order preventing the county commission not be able to tamper with his budget in the future.
During Wednesday's closing arguments attorney's for the county commission said that the sheriff's department would be able to operate if cuts are made.
Sheriff Hale's attorney told the judge if the sheriff was ordered to cut his budget by $5 million, more than 150 deputies would lose their jobs and public safety would be put at risk.
During testimony, Sheriff Hale said the budget cuts put the public at risk.
"I was representing the people of Jefferson County," Hale said. "I talked about law and order, and safety. I made the case I was elected to make, to keep neighborhoods and communities safe."
Attorneys for Hale provided closing arguements Wednesday in the court battle with the Jefferson County Commission. "The law requires the county to set priorities," said Hale attorney Rob Riley. "At the top of that list is the office of the sheriff."
But Jefferson County Commissioners who testified in the case say if they can't cut the sheriff's budget by $5 million, the county may be open for more lawsuits.
"IT or somebody who does business with IT could sue us," said Commissioner Jim Carns. "Saying IT was cut more than the sheriff's department. Roads and Transportation was cut more. This is a circular firing squad."
Jim Priester, an attorney representing the commissioners, said in his closing the commission has to follow the balanced budget law and the sheriff should be cut just other important county departments.
Some commissioners say Hale's lawsuit and one filed by a patient representative of Cooper Green Mercy Hospital which seeks to keep that facility from cuts and closing is a waste of tax dollars.
"Instead of filing lawsuits, these people need to help us find ways to get through this crisis," said Commissioner Bobby Humphryes.
Commission President Bettye Fine Collins has said without the budget cuts in the sheriff's department, more employees in other county departments will have to be laid off.
"Ya'll know we can't come up with enough cash without jobs being terminated," said Collins.
Collins has asked Governor Bob Riley to declare a state of emergency because of the county's funding problems. Riley said Thursday he did not have the legal authority to do that.
Jeffco looks to alternative to layoffs
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - The Jefferson County Commission has some potentially good news for the 207 County workers who are in danger of becoming laid off. The Commission is considering the option of placing employees on administrative leave, instead.
The administrative leave would last for 30 days without pay and would allow for workers to keep their insurance. Workers would have to pay for 14% of the insurance costs and the County would pay for 86%.
Jefferson County Attorney Jeff Sewell says the County has the authority to place employees on administrative leave and he feels this might be a better alternative to layoffs.
Commission President Bettye Fine Collins says that the County HR Director has been authorized to place workers on leave. She also says that the County could put classified workers on leave as well, but does not feel the financial situation is far enough along for that.
Collins says that this will be a relief since workers will get to keep their insurance and will not lose any seniority. If the workers were laid off, they would be subject to repeating the entire hiring process if they were to return to work.
The administrative leave would last for 30 days without pay and would allow for workers to keep their insurance. Workers would have to pay for 14% of the insurance costs and the County would pay for 86%.
Jefferson County Attorney Jeff Sewell says the County has the authority to place employees on administrative leave and he feels this might be a better alternative to layoffs.
Commission President Bettye Fine Collins says that the County HR Director has been authorized to place workers on leave. She also says that the County could put classified workers on leave as well, but does not feel the financial situation is far enough along for that.
Collins says that this will be a relief since workers will get to keep their insurance and will not lose any seniority. If the workers were laid off, they would be subject to repeating the entire hiring process if they were to return to work.
Jeffco Coroner identifies Crestwood robbery suspect
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - The Jefferson County Coroner has identified the robbery suspect in a recent robbery and shooting in Crestwood as 25-year-old Stephen Wittkop.
The Coroner says Wittkop shot himself.
Birmingham police say Wittkop went inside the Vineyard Food Mart on Crestwood Boulevard where he pulled a gun and demanded money shortly after nine on Tuesday night.
Investigators say when the robber was leaving, the store owner pulled out a gun and both men began shooting at each other in the parking lot.
The Coroner says Wittkop shot himself.
Birmingham police say Wittkop went inside the Vineyard Food Mart on Crestwood Boulevard where he pulled a gun and demanded money shortly after nine on Tuesday night.
Investigators say when the robber was leaving, the store owner pulled out a gun and both men began shooting at each other in the parking lot.
Agreement reached in Cooper Green lawsuit
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - 10th Judicial Circuit Judge Scott Vowell has announced that a temporary agreement has been reached between attorneys for a Cooper Green Hospital patient and the Jefferson County Commission. The patient had filed a lawsuit against the county claiming they illegally took $4.7 million dollars from the county's indigent care fund. The patient wanted the judge to issue a restraining order which would block the commission from closing Cooper Green.
The agreement calls for the county commission to first approach Judge Scott Vowell if they intend to close Cooper Green Hospital. The agreement also states that the indigent care fund must remain fully funded at all times.
Earlier this morning the plaintiff's attorney has agreed that the issue of the 4.7 million dollars that they had originally claimed that was diverted from the indigent fund was no longer an issue. Both sides agree that that $4.7 million dollars was back in it's proper account.
This case can still be opened up at a further date.
Also Thursday, the Jefferson County treasurer joined the plaintiffs in the case. The attorney for Jennifer Parsons Champion says that Champion has not had access to the idigent care fund records, regardless of requests to look into the matter. Champion says that her office has had nothing to do with the diverted funds.
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Lawmakers reach deal on occupational tax
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Jefferson County lawmakers reached a tentative deal Wednesday to try and avert massive layoffs and a possible default of payroll by the county after its occupational tax was declared illegal.
Fifteen of the county's 26-member legislative delegation met for more than four hours at Innovation Depot in Birmingham and agreed to work from a compromise bill proposed by State Sen. Steve French, (R)-Mountain Brook.
French's plan would reinstate the county's occupational tax at its current .05 percent rate, and would apply it to everyone, including licensed professionals like doctors and lawyers who were exempted under the previous tax. But the tax would only kick in above $16,000 of income and only up to $106,000, and would step down to .025 percent in 3 years, and be phased out completely by 2014. Senator French says the plan would effectively give an $80 tax break to taxpayers who have been paying the previous tax, while ensuring that the maximum any taxpayer would pay would be $450 a year.
Several lawmakers from both chambers took issue with parts of French's proposal including the rate to be charged, how much money it would actually bring to the county, and where the so-called floor and ceiling of the taxable income bracket should be placed. It appears there is a consensus to re-instate the tax and cover everyone, as well as having it phase out over time.
"The concern is that we don't throw good money after bad, and this is not a reward for doing a bad job," French said. "This is a bridge to get you to a better place. Nobody makes hard cut choices unless they're forced to, and nobody makes cuts unless they're facing a deadline, and this imposes a deadline."
"Politics is the art of compromise," Senate President Pro Tem Roger Smitherman, (D)-Birmingam, said. "And that sounds like a compromise we can work from to try to get to the end we need to get to."
"We're working towards a solution," State Representative Oliver Robinson said. "The French bill is a good foundation for us to work from. We got consensus on many things that's in that bill. We'll go from there and make other amendments but I think it's a great start."
The delegation will meet again on July 27th to hammer out the fine points of the compromise. If lawmakers can reach a consensus, they hope to start a special session called by Governor Riley on August 1st, and could pass a bill within five days. Jefferson County officials told lawmakers today they don't have the money to make payroll on August 7th. Lawmakers said after today's meeting they believe the county can access $18 million in an escrow account or get a short-term bridge loan to make that payroll if lenders know a replacement tax has passed the legislature.
Fifteen of the county's 26-member legislative delegation met for more than four hours at Innovation Depot in Birmingham and agreed to work from a compromise bill proposed by State Sen. Steve French, (R)-Mountain Brook.
French's plan would reinstate the county's occupational tax at its current .05 percent rate, and would apply it to everyone, including licensed professionals like doctors and lawyers who were exempted under the previous tax. But the tax would only kick in above $16,000 of income and only up to $106,000, and would step down to .025 percent in 3 years, and be phased out completely by 2014. Senator French says the plan would effectively give an $80 tax break to taxpayers who have been paying the previous tax, while ensuring that the maximum any taxpayer would pay would be $450 a year.
Several lawmakers from both chambers took issue with parts of French's proposal including the rate to be charged, how much money it would actually bring to the county, and where the so-called floor and ceiling of the taxable income bracket should be placed. It appears there is a consensus to re-instate the tax and cover everyone, as well as having it phase out over time.
"The concern is that we don't throw good money after bad, and this is not a reward for doing a bad job," French said. "This is a bridge to get you to a better place. Nobody makes hard cut choices unless they're forced to, and nobody makes cuts unless they're facing a deadline, and this imposes a deadline."
"Politics is the art of compromise," Senate President Pro Tem Roger Smitherman, (D)-Birmingam, said. "And that sounds like a compromise we can work from to try to get to the end we need to get to."
"We're working towards a solution," State Representative Oliver Robinson said. "The French bill is a good foundation for us to work from. We got consensus on many things that's in that bill. We'll go from there and make other amendments but I think it's a great start."
The delegation will meet again on July 27th to hammer out the fine points of the compromise. If lawmakers can reach a consensus, they hope to start a special session called by Governor Riley on August 1st, and could pass a bill within five days. Jefferson County officials told lawmakers today they don't have the money to make payroll on August 7th. Lawmakers said after today's meeting they believe the county can access $18 million in an escrow account or get a short-term bridge loan to make that payroll if lenders know a replacement tax has passed the legislature.
Collins says county near state of emergency
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Jefferson County Commission President Bettye Fine Collins said Wednesday the county is approaching a state of emergency.
"Quite honestly folks we are approaching a state of emergency," Collins said. "It may be necessary to appeal to the governor to declare us in a state of emergency."
Collins says because of the loss of the job tax and declining revenues the county will be out of money and can only guarantee payroll
for July 24th. Collins said she has asked Governor Bob Riley to declare a state of emergency and to provide assistance if the county is forced into massive layoffs.
But, a spokesman for Riley said Wednesday that may not be possible. "Legally it's not an option," said Todd Stacy, Riley's press secretary. "It's an issue that has to settled by the legislature."
Thursday, county commissioners will be looking to layoff even more county workers than those listed as unclassified.
"It's everybody who has a job here currently," said Commissioner Sheila Smoot. "It will include all workers."
Commissioner Bobby Humphryes said he will not support laying off 207 laborers unless the cuts are across the board. He also said it may be time for the county to throw in the towel.
"I don't think we have a choice but to file bankruptcy for the whole county," Humphryes said. "That doesn't relieve us the problem of the cash we need but it gives us breathing room on these lawsuits."
Sheriff Mike Hale is waiting on a judge's ruling to determine if his budget will be cut by $5 million. Thursday, supporters of Cooper Green Mercy Hospital will be taking the county to court to prevent cuts.
"Quite honestly folks we are approaching a state of emergency," Collins said. "It may be necessary to appeal to the governor to declare us in a state of emergency."
Collins says because of the loss of the job tax and declining revenues the county will be out of money and can only guarantee payroll
for July 24th. Collins said she has asked Governor Bob Riley to declare a state of emergency and to provide assistance if the county is forced into massive layoffs.
But, a spokesman for Riley said Wednesday that may not be possible. "Legally it's not an option," said Todd Stacy, Riley's press secretary. "It's an issue that has to settled by the legislature."
Thursday, county commissioners will be looking to layoff even more county workers than those listed as unclassified.
"It's everybody who has a job here currently," said Commissioner Sheila Smoot. "It will include all workers."
Commissioner Bobby Humphryes said he will not support laying off 207 laborers unless the cuts are across the board. He also said it may be time for the county to throw in the towel.
"I don't think we have a choice but to file bankruptcy for the whole county," Humphryes said. "That doesn't relieve us the problem of the cash we need but it gives us breathing room on these lawsuits."
Sheriff Mike Hale is waiting on a judge's ruling to determine if his budget will be cut by $5 million. Thursday, supporters of Cooper Green Mercy Hospital will be taking the county to court to prevent cuts.
Sheriff and county await ruling
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - The future of Jefferson County Sheriff Mike Hale's operation now rests with a Jefferson County Circuit Judge.
"I was representing the people of Jefferson County," Hale said. "I talked about law and order, and safety. I made the case I was elected to make, to keep neighborhoods and communities safe."
Attorneys for Hale provided closing arguements Wednesday in the court battle with the Jefferson County Commission. "The law requires the county to set priorities," said Hale attorney Rob Riley. "At the top of that list is the office of the sheriff."
But Jefferson County Commissioners who testified in the case say if they can't cut the sheriff's budget by $5 million, the county may be open for more lawsuits.
"IT or somebody who does business with IT could sue us," said Commissioner Jim Carns. "Saying IT was cut more than the sheriff's department. Roads and Transportation was cut more. This is a circular firing squad."
Jim Priester, an attorney representing the commissioners, said in his closing the commission has to follow the balanced budget law and the sheriff should be cut just other important county departments.
Some commissioners say Hale's lawsuit and one filed by a patient representative of Cooper Green Mercy Hospital which seeks to keep that facility from cuts and closing is a waste of tax dollars.
"Instead of filing lawsuits, these people need to help us find ways to get through this crisis," said Commissioner Bobby Humphryes.
A Hale win will mean more county workers will have to be laid off.
"Ya'll know we can't come up with enough cash without jobs being terminated," said Commission President Bettye Fine Collins.
Collins has asked Governor Bob Riley to declare a state of emergency because of the county's funding problems. Riley's Press Secretary Todd Stacy said Wednesday that may not be a legal option.
"I was representing the people of Jefferson County," Hale said. "I talked about law and order, and safety. I made the case I was elected to make, to keep neighborhoods and communities safe."
Attorneys for Hale provided closing arguements Wednesday in the court battle with the Jefferson County Commission. "The law requires the county to set priorities," said Hale attorney Rob Riley. "At the top of that list is the office of the sheriff."
But Jefferson County Commissioners who testified in the case say if they can't cut the sheriff's budget by $5 million, the county may be open for more lawsuits.
"IT or somebody who does business with IT could sue us," said Commissioner Jim Carns. "Saying IT was cut more than the sheriff's department. Roads and Transportation was cut more. This is a circular firing squad."
Jim Priester, an attorney representing the commissioners, said in his closing the commission has to follow the balanced budget law and the sheriff should be cut just other important county departments.
Some commissioners say Hale's lawsuit and one filed by a patient representative of Cooper Green Mercy Hospital which seeks to keep that facility from cuts and closing is a waste of tax dollars.
"Instead of filing lawsuits, these people need to help us find ways to get through this crisis," said Commissioner Bobby Humphryes.
A Hale win will mean more county workers will have to be laid off.
"Ya'll know we can't come up with enough cash without jobs being terminated," said Commission President Bettye Fine Collins.
Collins has asked Governor Bob Riley to declare a state of emergency because of the county's funding problems. Riley's Press Secretary Todd Stacy said Wednesday that may not be a legal option.
Governor declines state of emergency for Jeffco
MONTGOMERY, AL (WBRC) - Todd Stacy from the Governor's Press Office says Governor Bob Riley will not declare a state of emergency for Jefferson County.
Stacy says that the Governor's Office did receive a request from Jefferson County to declare the state of emergency due to their financial troubles. He adds that the declaration is not an option and the County will have to settle the matter in the courts.
This comes after the Jefferson County Commission recently announced more layoffs in addition to the 200 laborers expected to be laid off next week. The Commission will discuss the need for more layoffs Thursday.
Commission President Bettye Fine Collins says the only payroll they are sure of paying and meeting is July 24th.
MyFoxAL.com and FOX6 News will keep you updated on this developing story as we get more information.
Stacy says that the Governor's Office did receive a request from Jefferson County to declare the state of emergency due to their financial troubles. He adds that the declaration is not an option and the County will have to settle the matter in the courts.
This comes after the Jefferson County Commission recently announced more layoffs in addition to the 200 laborers expected to be laid off next week. The Commission will discuss the need for more layoffs Thursday.
Commission President Bettye Fine Collins says the only payroll they are sure of paying and meeting is July 24th.
MyFoxAL.com and FOX6 News will keep you updated on this developing story as we get more information.
Case Closed in Jefferson County Sheriff vs County Commission
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) -- At ten-thirty this morning the closing arguments concluded in the case of Jefferson County Sheriff Mike Hale versus the Jefferson County Commission.
Sheriff Hale is asking the Judge Joseph Boohaker to order the Jefferson County Commission to give back five million dollars it took from his budget last Thursday. Hale is also asking that the judge issue a restraining order ordering that the county commission not be able to tamper with his budget in the future.
During Wednesday's closing arguments attorney's for the county commission said that the sheriff's department would be able to operate if cuts are made.
Sheriff Hale's attorney told the judge that if the sheriff was ordered to cut his budget by five million dollars over 150 deputies would lose their jobs and public safety would be put at risk.
Judge Boohaker did ask both attorney's if they would agree to sitting down under court order and negotiating in good faith with each other.
Boohaker said he will issue a ruling !
in this case no later than Thursday at 3p.m.
Sheriff Hale is asking the Judge Joseph Boohaker to order the Jefferson County Commission to give back five million dollars it took from his budget last Thursday. Hale is also asking that the judge issue a restraining order ordering that the county commission not be able to tamper with his budget in the future.
During Wednesday's closing arguments attorney's for the county commission said that the sheriff's department would be able to operate if cuts are made.
Sheriff Hale's attorney told the judge that if the sheriff was ordered to cut his budget by five million dollars over 150 deputies would lose their jobs and public safety would be put at risk.
Judge Boohaker did ask both attorney's if they would agree to sitting down under court order and negotiating in good faith with each other.
Boohaker said he will issue a ruling !
in this case no later than Thursday at 3p.m.
Personnel board tables vote on pay changes
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - A show of solidarity persuaded the Jefferson County personnel board Tuesday to back down on making major changes to employee’s salaries.
More than 250 employees who fall under the board's purview turned out for the public hearing. Representatives wore their uniforms and t-shirts representing their jurisdictions and departments, including firefighters, police officers and civil service employees from Bessemer, Gardendale, Homewood, Irondale, Vestavia Hills, Birmingham and Jefferson County.
More than a dozen representatives spoke to the board, asking the three member panel to reconsider changing rules that would have affected hundreds of employees’ salaries and potentially their retirement plans.
The changes would have allowed municipalities to implement furloughs and allowed cities to reduce the annual merit raises of employees from five percent to 2.5 percent. That change would have meant employees had to work 19 years before reaching their maximum salary as opposed to 10 years with the current rules in place.
"It’s not the Jefferson County personnel board’s duty to balance the budgets for municipalities," said Roger Wyatt, president of the Professional Firefighters of Alabama. "All of these rule changes are designed to give cities more leeway to put budget cuts on the backs of employees."
After hearing more than an hour's worth of comments, board chairman Bobby Smith told the group he had heard enough and made a motion to table the proposal until a later time. The room erupted in applause at the suggestion as employees rose to their feet.
After the meeting, Smith spoke to reporters. "In some ways, it would have allowed for more flexibilities for appointing authorities," Smith said. "But the employees today made a good case."
More than 250 employees who fall under the board's purview turned out for the public hearing. Representatives wore their uniforms and t-shirts representing their jurisdictions and departments, including firefighters, police officers and civil service employees from Bessemer, Gardendale, Homewood, Irondale, Vestavia Hills, Birmingham and Jefferson County.
More than a dozen representatives spoke to the board, asking the three member panel to reconsider changing rules that would have affected hundreds of employees’ salaries and potentially their retirement plans.
The changes would have allowed municipalities to implement furloughs and allowed cities to reduce the annual merit raises of employees from five percent to 2.5 percent. That change would have meant employees had to work 19 years before reaching their maximum salary as opposed to 10 years with the current rules in place.
"It’s not the Jefferson County personnel board’s duty to balance the budgets for municipalities," said Roger Wyatt, president of the Professional Firefighters of Alabama. "All of these rule changes are designed to give cities more leeway to put budget cuts on the backs of employees."
After hearing more than an hour's worth of comments, board chairman Bobby Smith told the group he had heard enough and made a motion to table the proposal until a later time. The room erupted in applause at the suggestion as employees rose to their feet.
After the meeting, Smith spoke to reporters. "In some ways, it would have allowed for more flexibilities for appointing authorities," Smith said. "But the employees today made a good case."
Shelby Academy to stay open
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Shelby Academy will stay open - at least for now, as it works to resolve its financial problems.
The Shelby Academy Board of Trustees met Tuesday night before a packed crowd to discuss a plan to close the school and sell it to pay off debt. Instead, parents and alumni of the school voted to keep it open.
The private school has been in Montevallo for 39 years, but is facing dire financial problems.
"We have an anonymous personal guarantor on an existing mortgage who has recently developed financial woes and we are in a financial crunch as a result of it," said school attorney Mitchell Spears.
The school needs about $580,000 to cover its debt and mortgage.
Parents and alumni of the school said Tuesday night they would do whatever it took to save the school.
A committee was formed to look into options that include getting loans, grants, and fund raising.
The Shelby Academy Board of Trustees met Tuesday night before a packed crowd to discuss a plan to close the school and sell it to pay off debt. Instead, parents and alumni of the school voted to keep it open.
The private school has been in Montevallo for 39 years, but is facing dire financial problems.
"We have an anonymous personal guarantor on an existing mortgage who has recently developed financial woes and we are in a financial crunch as a result of it," said school attorney Mitchell Spears.
The school needs about $580,000 to cover its debt and mortgage.
Parents and alumni of the school said Tuesday night they would do whatever it took to save the school.
A committee was formed to look into options that include getting loans, grants, and fund raising.
Shots exchanged after store robbery
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) -- A man who police say robbed the Vineyard Food Market in the 5900 block of Crestwood Boulevard in Birmingham was found with a gunshot wound shortly after getting into a shootout with a store employee.
Birmingham police Sergeant Johnny Williams says a white male entered the Vineyard Food Market around 9:16p.m. Tuesday and robbed the store with a handgun.
The suspected robber got away with an unknown amount of cash.
Police say the store employee followed the suspected robber out of the store where shots were exchanged between the two men.
After the gunfire ended the alleged robber was dead with several gunshot wounds.
The store owner was not hurt.
It will be up to the district attorney to decide if any charges will be filed. The coroner is expected to issue a report as to exactly what happened.
Birmingham police Sergeant Johnny Williams says a white male entered the Vineyard Food Market around 9:16p.m. Tuesday and robbed the store with a handgun.
The suspected robber got away with an unknown amount of cash.
Police say the store employee followed the suspected robber out of the store where shots were exchanged between the two men.
After the gunfire ended the alleged robber was dead with several gunshot wounds.
The store owner was not hurt.
It will be up to the district attorney to decide if any charges will be filed. The coroner is expected to issue a report as to exactly what happened.
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Closing arguments set for tomorrow in Sheriff's budget case
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Fox6 News has learned closing arguments will be held tomorrow in Jefferson County Sheriff Mike Hale's budget case.
The court case is over $5 million the county removed from the Sheriff's budget.
During the hearing today, Sheriff Hale took the witness stand, seeking to convince a judge to block the county from cutting his budget by one third.
The Sheriff wants the $5 million back and would like to see a restraining order granted to keep the county from making cuts.
The Sheriff says that cuts will place the citizens of Jefferson County in danger, while the County says that the Sheriff will still be able to operate with the cuts in place.
Judge Joseph Boohaker says a decision in the case should come this Thursday.
The court case is over $5 million the county removed from the Sheriff's budget.
During the hearing today, Sheriff Hale took the witness stand, seeking to convince a judge to block the county from cutting his budget by one third.
The Sheriff wants the $5 million back and would like to see a restraining order granted to keep the county from making cuts.
The Sheriff says that cuts will place the citizens of Jefferson County in danger, while the County says that the Sheriff will still be able to operate with the cuts in place.
Judge Joseph Boohaker says a decision in the case should come this Thursday.
Langford: Let's loan $5 mil to the Sheriff's Dept.
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Birmingham Mayor Larry Langford said Tuesday he is willing to help out the Jefferson County Sheriff's Department if the department loses its court fight to stop budget cuts.
Langford told FOX6 News reporter Ashley Nix he would ask city councilors to loan the county $5 million to be used only to fund the sheriff's department. Langford says if 150 deputies are cut, it will affect not only the county, but also the city, at a time when crime numbers are down by double digits.
"We can't live in a city where public safety is threatened," Langford said. "We talk about regionalism... let's start by helping our brothers and sisters across the park."
Sheriff Mike Hale told FOX6 News he met with Langford on Tuesday morning. Hale said he appreciates the offer, but was not sure how the loan would work.
Police Chief A.C. Roper said it will definitely hurt the city if prisoners are let go and if deputies are cut.
FOX6 News spoke to several councilors after Langford's proposal, and all said they would not be willing to give money to the county.
Langford told FOX6 News reporter Ashley Nix he would ask city councilors to loan the county $5 million to be used only to fund the sheriff's department. Langford says if 150 deputies are cut, it will affect not only the county, but also the city, at a time when crime numbers are down by double digits.
"We can't live in a city where public safety is threatened," Langford said. "We talk about regionalism... let's start by helping our brothers and sisters across the park."
Sheriff Mike Hale told FOX6 News he met with Langford on Tuesday morning. Hale said he appreciates the offer, but was not sure how the loan would work.
Police Chief A.C. Roper said it will definitely hurt the city if prisoners are let go and if deputies are cut.
FOX6 News spoke to several councilors after Langford's proposal, and all said they would not be willing to give money to the county.
Hit and run arrest
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - A Boaz man was arrested Tuesday in connection with a hit and run on Sardis Road.
Etowah County Sheriff Todd Entrekin said Robbin Wade Mashburn, 35, was taken into custody Tuesday afternoon at Mashburn's home on Scott Road.
Entrekin said Mashburn was involved in a hit and run incident at approximately 11:40 a.m. Tuesday on Sardis Road near the Leeth Gap Road intersection.
Two inmates picking up trash were hit and injured in the incident. Both inmates were transported by ambulance to Marshall Medical Center South, where one was then flown to a Huntsville hospital. The other has since been released from Marshall Medical Center and is back in custody of the Etowah County Detention Center.
The identity and conditions of the two inmates was not known.
Etowah County Sheriff Todd Entrekin said Robbin Wade Mashburn, 35, was taken into custody Tuesday afternoon at Mashburn's home on Scott Road.
Entrekin said Mashburn was involved in a hit and run incident at approximately 11:40 a.m. Tuesday on Sardis Road near the Leeth Gap Road intersection.
Two inmates picking up trash were hit and injured in the incident. Both inmates were transported by ambulance to Marshall Medical Center South, where one was then flown to a Huntsville hospital. The other has since been released from Marshall Medical Center and is back in custody of the Etowah County Detention Center.
The identity and conditions of the two inmates was not known.
City council approves dome funding
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - The Birmingham City Council on Tuesday approved funding for a domed stadium in Birmingham, setting a groundbreaking for next week.
The council Tuesday morning approved releasing funding for the proposed BJCC expansion via the intial $8 million raised by the city in 2008. The funding came from a doubling of the city's business license fees.
Tuesday's action allows the BJCC board to start the design phase of the facility. Only one city councilor, Valerie Abbott, voted not to release the money, saying financial concerns weighed heavily on her mind.
"We're in a recession, we don't have a city budget because we think were $26 million dollars in the hole, in the red." Abbott said. "So why would we vote to design something we don't know we can afford to build?"
Mayor Larry Langford says this is a step the city made that will live on for years to come.
BJCC leaders say they will plan a groundbreaking ceremony soon, possibly as early as Tuesday, July 21.
The council Tuesday morning approved releasing funding for the proposed BJCC expansion via the intial $8 million raised by the city in 2008. The funding came from a doubling of the city's business license fees.
Tuesday's action allows the BJCC board to start the design phase of the facility. Only one city councilor, Valerie Abbott, voted not to release the money, saying financial concerns weighed heavily on her mind.
"We're in a recession, we don't have a city budget because we think were $26 million dollars in the hole, in the red." Abbott said. "So why would we vote to design something we don't know we can afford to build?"
Mayor Larry Langford says this is a step the city made that will live on for years to come.
BJCC leaders say they will plan a groundbreaking ceremony soon, possibly as early as Tuesday, July 21.
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