The Birmingham City Council heard Mayor Randall Woodfin’s first proposed spending plan today, then set a budget hearing for May 14.
Woodfin proposes spending $436 million dollars in the next fiscal year, which begins July 1. That’s an $8 million increase over the current year. He says the city is projected to take in more money from tax revenue.
During his budget presentation, Woodfin said neighborhood revitalization is his number one priority. He proposed increased spending on street lights, tearing down dilapidated structures and trimming weeds.
The mayor also plans to change the way the city handles economic development. The city’s new Department of Innovation and Economic Opportunity will help residents open businesses and lend support to existing businesses.
The council approved a $1.5 million loan and incentives toward a new development, Lakeview Green. Developers say the project is expected to create 200 jobs and generate $550,000 in annual city revenue. It will include restaurants, shops and condos.