Water Board Cuts Funding to BBRC: What's Up?

The Central Alabama Water Board just dropped a financial bombshell! They voted Monday to dial back their monthly payments to the Birmingham Business Resource Center (BBRC). Why? Concerns are swirling about the cost and whether the BBRC's services are really benefiting the utility and its customers.

From $20K to $35K...and Back Again

Apparently, the board was presented with invoices totaling $35,000 each, reflecting a recent rate hike. Some board members questioned the jump from the original $20,000 per month, especially since the increased rate wasn't fully approved for 2025.

Doubts About Direct Benefit

The core issue? Some board members simply aren't convinced that the BBRC's work has a direct, positive impact on the water utility or its ratepayers. The BBRC bills itself as an entrepreneurial "one-stop shop," aiming to boost small businesses and the local economy.

Contract Under Scrutiny

Instead of coughing up the higher amount, the board voted to revert to the previous $20,000 monthly payment. Lawyers are now digging into the contract to ensure the BBRC is delivering what was promised. The decision passed, but not without dissent.

More Accountability in Sight?

This isn't the first time the newly restructured board has taken a microscope to its contracts. Earlier this year, they nixed a hefty $660,000 contract, citing a need to protect ratepayers and ensure responsible spending. It seems like the Water Board is really tightening its belt.

BBRC Responds

The BBRC lists Birmingham Water Works as one of its sponsors, alongside other local big names. Their recent report highlights work with minority-owned and disadvantaged businesses, and entrepreneurial training in low-income areas. What will happen next? Stay tuned, ChumCity citizens!

FBI Redstone: Drone Defense Central!

Sen. Katie Britt is singing the praises of FBI Redstone, highlighting its vital role in the fight against ever-evolving drone threats. She noted the facility's killer "technological infrastructure and training" are key to crafting effective counter-UAS strategies.

Senate Hearing Spotlights Drone Danger

Britt's comments came during a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing focused on the growing issue of drone use and public safety.

Experts Weigh In

Michael Torphy, head honcho for FBI's UAS and Counter-UAS at Redstone Arsenal, and Steven Willoughby from Homeland Security, testified.

Redstone's Secret Weapon: Collaboration

Britt grilled Torphy about how the FBI is keeping pace with increasingly sophisticated and dangerous drones. Torphy explained that FBI Redstone's close ties with the Department of Defense and other partners are crucial. "It's the perfect place for us to be doing this work," he said. "Proximity to other important players is key!"

More Authority Needed?

Recognizing the rising threat level, Britt questioned what additional powers are needed to tackle these concerns.

Eyes on the Sky

Torphy stressed the importance of expanded cooperation. Opening up drone detection capabilities to state, local, and tribal law enforcement would be a game-changer. "It’s very difficult to fight the enemy that you can’t see," he explained.

Montgomery Whitewater Gets a Million-Dollar Boost!

The Montgomery County Commission is throwing its weight behind Montgomery Whitewater, approving $1 million to keep the outdoor adventure park afloat. This funding will help cover operating costs and existing bills.

Commissioners Discuss the Park's Progress

During a recent meeting, commissioners chatted about the 120-acre park's journey – the highs and the lows. Commission Chairman Doug Singleton emphasized that while Montgomery Whitewater is making strides, it's not quite ready to stand on its own two feet yet.

"Ramp-Up" Still in Progress

“We understood that it’s going to take a ramp-up,” Singleton stated, highlighting the agreement with the city to help with operating costs until the park becomes self-sufficient.

Revenue on the Rise!

Good news! Revenue is up over 50% in the past year, with record crowds hitting the park for the last three weekends. The financial gap is expected to shrink year by year.

A Word of Caution

District 4 Commissioner Isaiah Sankey voiced some reservations, pointing out the significant investment in the park. He expressed hope that the need for such hefty funding will decrease over time.

What's the Deal with Montgomery Whitewater?

This $90 million park, launched in July 2023, is all about outdoor fun with man-made rapids and a whole host of activities. It's envisioned as a major economic driver, boosting tourism and recreation in Alabama.

More Fun on the Horizon!

The park is only 20% developed so far! Think ropes courses, zip lines, and the super-fun whitewater tubing – all part of the expansion plans. A hotel is also in the works.

Aiming for Self-Sufficiency

Executive Director Jason Wilson expects revenue to jump another 40–50% in the next few years, with the goal of the park being self-sufficient within five years.

A Big Hit!

Since opening, Montgomery Whitewater has drawn over 9,000 visitors, hosting everything from athletic competitions to concerts and even emergency training. It was even named one of Time magazine's "World’s Greatest Places of 2024!"

City Support Too!

The Montgomery City Council is also chipping in, pledging $500,000 annually for the next three years.

Hoover Joins Tax Fight?

Hoover mayoral hopeful Nick Derzis wants the city to jump into a lawsuit with Tuscaloosa and Mountain Brook. The gripe? They say Alabama's online sales tax distribution is shortchanging Hoover to the tune of millions!

Space Command Incoming!

Get ready, Alabama! Senator Katie Britt says Space Command HQ is landing here within weeks! We're talking potentially 4,700 jobs and a $647 million boost. Huge news!

Bibb County Horror

A dark story out of Bibb County: seven people are charged with sexually abusing TEN children in a secret underground bunker. Absolutely devastating.

ICE Raid at School Site

Drama in Loxley! Federal agents swooped in on an elementary school construction site, arresting 11 in an ICE raid focused on illegal immigration. This is the second such raid in Baldwin County.

Tuberville's Russiagate Accusation

Senator Tommy Tuberville is stirring the pot, accusing Obama-era Democrats of plotting against Donald Trump back in 2016. His advice? "Lawyer up" regarding Russiagate, he says.

Intel Bombshell?

Remember Tulsi Gabbard? She claims recently declassified documents reveal "gross politicization" of intelligence by the Obama admin. According to Gabbard, Russia had some dirt on Hillary Clinton, too. CNN apparently cut away from the press conference!

Epstein Files Remain Sealed

A federal judge feels powerless to release grand jury transcripts related to Jeffrey Epstein. Meanwhile, the House wants answers and is demanding DOJ records. And the Wall Street Journal? They're saying Trump's name is in the Epstein files, but downplaying the context... stay tuned.

Dale Jackson Speaks

Catch Dale Jackson, the Yellowhammer News guru, weekdays from 5-9 a.m. on WVNN.

AMCOM Town Hall: Shaping the Future of Warfighting!

Major General Lori Robinson, along with Don Nitti and Command Sergeant Major Christopher Doss, recently hosted a super-informative town hall at Redstone Arsenal's Bob Jones Auditorium. The hot topic? How AMCOM is gearing up for the future!

Army Transformation: Leaner, Meaner, More Lethal!

General Robinson kicked things off by diving into the Army Transformation Initiative. Think of it as a major glow-up, designed to make our forces "leaner, more lethal" by focusing on key warfighting abilities and ditching outdated stuff.

AMCOM's Role: Speed & Tech!

So how does AMCOM fit in? By getting critical systems into the field faster! We're talking long-range missiles, cutting-edge uncrewed aerial systems, and even jamming some sweet artificial intelligence into command structures. It's all about staying ahead of the curve in a world of rapidly evolving battlefield tech! As Robinson put it, "We’re seeing a huge investment toward unmanned air and ground systems, robotics and electronic warfare!"

Workforce Challenges & Triumphs!

Nitti and Robinson tackled some tough workforce questions, especially those pesky hiring freezes. While acknowledging the financial reasons behind the freeze, they highlighted smart strategies for redeploying internal talent to where it's needed most. "We understand that there is a lot of stress on the workforce," Nitti admitted, "I just want to say thank you to everybody, because despite everything that’s going on right now, the AMCOM mission continues to move along as we support the warfighter."

AI to the Rescue!

Artificial intelligence is no longer just a buzzword—it's streamlining workflows everywhere! From figuring out maintenance to tracking resources, AI tools are helping teams make quicker, smarter decisions. Robinson encouraged everyone to embrace training opportunities and keep innovating!

Tough Questions, Straight Answers!

The town hall wrapped up with a candid Q&A session. Employees asked about potential workforce reductions, equipment repair options, and how performance metrics will affect career paths. Robinson was straight-up, emphasizing the importance of keeping the lines of communication open.

Change is Constant!

"AMCOM is changing," Robinson declared. "The Army’s changing and the world’s changing.” This town hall wasn't just a top-down directive; it was a chance for everyone to share ideas and help shape the future of AMCOM!