Alabama Bill Targets Birmingham Water Board Control

Alabama lawmakers are advancing Senate Bill 330, sponsored by Republican Sen. Dan Roberts, which would overhaul the Birmingham Water Works Board by reducing its size from nine to seven members and decreasing Birmingham's representation from six appointees to two. The proposed changes would shift control to a regional board with appointees from multiple counties, aiming to address issues like customer service, billing, and infrastructure by professionalizing board operations. Proponents claim the bill will improve accountability and service for all customers, while opponents argue it constitutes a state takeover that undermines local control and jeopardizes current projects. The debate is intensified by racial and regional tensions, as majority-Black Birmingham would cede control to predominantly white suburban counties. The bill introduces new expertise requirements for appointees and has cleared committee hurdles. Its final passage awaits a House vote, with the Republican majority likely to decide its fate.