WBHM Politics: Regional Cooperation
Proponents of governments cooperating across metro areas say it leads to better local economies and is more efficient. But efforts to develop regional cooperation around Birmingham through specific initiatives or through culture have often faced the buzzsaw of political infighting. It’s something that kind of gets talked about but never seems to go much beyond that. A study released this summer is trying to give new life to the issue. In this episode of WBHM Politics we’ll hear about the study and examine the status of regional cooperation around Birmingham with Thomas Spencer of the Public Affairs Research Council of Alabama, Midfield Mayor Gary Richardson and WBHM local government reporter Sherrel Wheeler Stewart.
Listen here or subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Google Play, Soundcloud, or NPR One.
In a ‘disheartening’ era, the nation’s former top mining regulator speaks out
Joe Pizarchik, who led the federal Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement from 2009 to 2017, says Alabama’s move in the wake of a fatal 2024 home explosion increases risks to residents living atop “gassy” coal mines.
‘It’s like feeling the arms of your creator just wrapped around you’: a visit to a special healing Shabbat
Members of Temple Emanu-El in Birmingham gathered recently for their traditional Friday Shabbat service. But this particular service was different, as could be seen by all the people dressed in their finest pink.
Space Command is coming to Huntsville. What might that mean for first-time homebuyers
While Huntsville has been a more affordable market than other growing cities, what’s it been like for those looking for their first home?
Colorado says relocation of Space Command to Alabama is ‘punishment’ for mail-in voting
The litigation announced by Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser asks a federal judge to block the move as unconstitutional.
Breaking down Alabama’s CHOOSE Act
It’s been a year since Alabama legislators passed the CHOOSE Act allowing families to apply for state funds to use towards homeschool expenses and tuition for participating private schools. The Alabama Daily News’ education reporter Trisha Powell Crain has been diving into how the funds are being used. WBHM’s Andrew Gelderman sat down with her to talk about what we’re seeing so far.
Huntsville is growing fast. Here’s how it’s stayed affordable
Home prices are rising in Huntsville, but so far, the city’s avoided the skyrocketing costs in other boom towns.

