Mayor Randall L. Woodfin presented resolutions of intent for a 5% cost of living adjustment (COLA) for all city employees and to fund new venues and restore key facilities during a meeting of the Birmingham City Council’s Budget and Finance Committee today.
The 5% COLA for employees, coupled with last year’s raise, would provide a cumulative 10% cost of living adjustment for all employees within a 12 month period.
“The city’s greatest asset to serve Birmingham is our people, the employees of our city. We appreciate your sacrifice and commitment,” Mayor Woodfin said. “The city is committed to investing in all city employees and providing competitive compensation in order to retain and recruit a customer-service based, efficient and effective workforce.”
Upon final approval from the full council, the item will be presented to the Jefferson County Personnel Board. The total cost of the COLA would be $13.5 million.
The employee-based resolution of intent will also increase the number of personnel in the Birmingham Fire and Rescue Service by 37. In 2022, BFRS saw the highest number of calls in its 151 year history. The increase in personnel will help maintain efficient service to our residents and businesses. The 37 BFRS positions will cost $2.5 million.
A second resolution of intent presented to the committee commits a one-time $26 million investment to existing and new facilities within the city to enhance economic development as a sports and entertainment destination. The funding would be distributed among four locations:
- Rickwood Field renovations: $2 million
- Legion Field renovations: $4 million
- CrossPlex Village Family Fun Center design and construction: $15 million
- North Birmingham amphitheater regional partnership: $5 million
“Our commitment to invest in these existing and new facilities benefits our families both in the city and provides new opportunities to actively recruit great events for residents and visitors alike,” Mayor Woodfin said.
Both resolutions will appear before the full council at a later date.
Original source can be found here.
