Birmingham, AL, September 10, 2025
News Summary
Mark Parnell, the former attorney for Birmingham Water Works, has filed a lawsuit against Central Alabama Water for wrongful termination and damaging his reputation. Parnell asserts that his dismissal from his role as Deputy General Manager and General Counsel ignored the protections in his annual $660,000 contract. Following his unexpected termination while caring for his terminally ill wife, Parnell claims board members made disparaging remarks affecting his professional reputation. The lawsuit seeks reinstatement and compensation for damages.
Former Birmingham Water Works Lawyer Mark Parnell Sues Utility Board for Wrongful Termination and Reputation Damage
Birmingham, AL – Mark Parnell, the former attorney for the Birmingham Water Works Board (BWWB), has initiated a lawsuit against the utility, now rebranded as Central Alabama Water (CAW), claiming wrongful termination and conspiracy to damage his reputation. The legal action follows Parnell’s unexpected dismissal from his position as Deputy General Manager and General Counsel, a role he held after being appointed as part of an effort to enhance stability amid political concerns.
The lawsuit asserts Parnell’s annual contract, valued at approximately $660,000 plus additional benefits, was legitimately approved by the outgoing board prior to significant legislative changes. Parnell contends that the terms of his contract included protections against termination without just cause, which he believes were ignored by the new board members.
Parnell’s contract was extended in January 2025, which included vital managerial responsibilities aimed at ensuring consistent water service for the Central Alabama region. The new board dismissed him on June 2, 2025, without prior notice or consultation, according to court documents.
Following his termination, Parnell alleges that certain board members made disparaging comments that harmed his professional reputation and contributed to public distrust in his legal abilities. The lawsuit reports that some members expressed that Parnell’s contract had been a “slap in the face” to ratepayers, raising questions about their confidence in his legal counsel.
Parnell’s contract termination occurred while he was caring for his terminally ill wife, which he claims adds emotional distress to the situation. The lawsuit seeks to have the court reinstate his contract and order Central Alabama Water to compensate him for back pay, full pension vesting, and additional damages.
Parnell’s legal team maintains that the contract approval process was conducted properly, emphasizing that the new board’s actions stem from unfounded biases rather than legitimate concerns regarding Parnell’s performance. Having represented the BWWB for over 35 years, Parnell’s extensive institutional knowledge is deemed crucial and at risk of being lost amid the board’s recent changes.
Central Alabama Water has acknowledged the existence of the lawsuit but has refrained from providing further comment, citing the ongoing nature of the litigation.
Background Context on the Birmingham Water Works Board
The Birmingham Water Works Board has undergone significant organizational changes recently, with governance shifts that prompted concerns about political stability and the continuity of water service in the region. The overhaul led to the rebranding of the utility to Central Alabama Water, reflecting both structural and operational updates aimed at improving service delivery to customers. Parnell’s hiring was part of a broader strategy to maintain institutional knowledge and procedural consistency during this tumultuous time.
Potential Implications of the Lawsuit
This lawsuit has broader implications for the governance of utility boards and the treatment of their employees during times of transition. If Parnell’s claims are validated, it could set a precedent regarding employment rights and procedural fairness that may affect not only Central Alabama Water but also other public utilities facing similar governance transitions.
Summary of Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Former Employee | Mark Parnell |
| Position Held | Deputy General Manager and General Counsel |
| Annual Contract Value | $660,000 |
| Termination Date | June 2, 2025 |
| Length of Service | 35 years |
FAQ
What claims are being made in Mark Parnell’s lawsuit?
The lawsuit alleges wrongful termination and conspiracy to harm Parnell’s reputation, claiming he was dismissed without just cause and without prior notification.
What was the value of Mark Parnell’s contract?
Parnell’s contract was valued at approximately $660,000 annually, along with additional benefits.
Why was Parnell’s contract significant?
His contract was crucial to maintain stability and continuity of water service for Central Alabama customers amid political changes within the board.
How long did Parnell serve with the Birmingham Water Works Board?
Mark Parnell served as legal counsel for over 35 years before his termination.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Former Birmingham Water Works Board Attorney Files Lawsuit
Birmingham Water Works Rebranding Controversy: A Branding Identity Crisis
Birmingham Water Works Board Contracts Under Scrutiny
Birmingham Water Works Board Terminates Attorney Amid Outrage
Concerns Over Ethics in Birmingham Water Works Restructuring
Birmingham Water Works Board Faces Legal Scrutiny
Additional Resources
- AL.com: Former Lawyer for Birmingham Regional Water Works is Suing the Utility
- WBRC: Former Birmingham Water Works Board Attorney Suing BWWB and New Board Members
- WVTM 13: Birmingham Water Board Lawsuit for Wrongful Termination
- ABC 3340: Birmingham Water Works Faces Lawsuit from Former Attorney
- WVTM 13: Longtime Birmingham Water Works Board Attorney Suing Over Termination
- Wikipedia: Birmingham Water Works
- Google Search: Birmingham Water Works lawsuit
- Google Scholar: Birmingham Water Works law
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Water Utilities
- Google News: Birmingham Water Works lawsuit
Author: STAFF HERE BIRMINGHAM WRITER
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