Birmingham, Alabama, October 14, 2025
News Summary
The Birmingham Water Works Board is pursuing over $183 million in federal loans to replace old lead pipes. Mayor Randall Woodfin’s support for the funds is conditional, requiring no rate hikes, the establishment of an in-house legal department, and objectives for minority participation in construction projects. With an ongoing federal lawsuit concerning the board’s structure complicating matters, the outcome could significantly impact the utility’s ability to secure these loans. Community outreach is underway to inform residents about lead pipe assessments.
Birmingham, Alabama – The Birmingham Water Works Board is seeking over $183 million in federal loans to facilitate the replacement of old lead pipes and related projects. This funding opportunity, which is crucial for enhancing the regional water system, hinges on support from the Birmingham Mayor, Randall Woodfin.
Currently, Mayor Woodfin’s backing is contingent upon several demands, including a guarantee that the water board will not raise customer rates, the establishment of an in-house law department, and the formulation of goals for minority participation in construction projects. In a letter dated October 7, the Mayor outlined the need for a comprehensive agreement encapsulating these conditions alongside the city’s commitment to the loan guaranty.
The dynamics between the Birmingham Water Works Board and city officials have been further complicated by a federal lawsuit filed by the city against the utility. This lawsuit pertains to legislation that reduced Birmingham’s oversight of the water utility, resulting in a board comprised mainly of a five-member Republican-appointed majority from outside of Birmingham and two Democratic-appointed members from the city’s mayor and council. The lawsuit’s outcome will be critical before the utility can issue debt or secure the sought federal loans.
Loan Process and Legal Considerations
The Alabama Drinking Water Authority, which manages the federal loan under the EPA, requires guarantees from the city regarding the terms of the loan agreement should the legal dispute be resolved favorably for Birmingham. The General Manager of the water board, Mac Underwood, noted that the issuance of the loan is closely tied to the lawsuit’s proceedings due to stipulations from the loan administrators.
Amid discussions to enhance operational efficiency, Jarvis Patton, a board member, proposed establishing an in-house legal department to mitigate the legal expenditures that had surpassed $1.7 million in one fiscal year. Criticism has grown regarding the current board members’ management of spiraling legal fees, even as they advocate for cost reductions. The utility previously had an in-house attorney structure before the recent changes to the board and the ongoing litigation.
Community Outreach and Public Awareness
As part of an initiative responding to new federal EPA requirements, over 71,000 Birmingham customers will soon receive letters advising them to check for lead pipes in their homes. These letters are primarily directed to residences built before 1989, informing residents that the notification does not indicate contamination but urges assessment of their water service infrastructure.
Interim General Manager Darryl R. Jones highlighted the importance of customer awareness, aiming to inform without inciting alarm regarding potential lead issues. The Birmingham Water Works conducts proactive water testing and mandates outreach and resources for customers acknowledging identified lead risks, including the provision of free water filter pitchers when applicable. The utility remains committed to ensuring high water quality and assisting customers in recognizing and managing potential risks in their homes.
Upcoming Discussions
A workshop and special meeting are planned for the board to delve into these critical issues surrounding the proposed loan, potential rate increases, and minority participation measures in construction projects. Political and geographical divisions continue to fuel debate over these matters.
- Key Points
- Over $183 million in federal loans is sought for lead pipe replacement.
- Mayor Randall Woodfin’s support is conditional on several requirements.
- Birmingham is involved in a federal lawsuit affecting board structure and funding capabilities.
- Community outreach will inform over 71,000 customers about lead pipe assessments.
FAQ
What is the purpose of the $183 million in federal loans sought by the Birmingham Water Works Board?
The Birmingham Water Works Board seeks over $183 million for the replacement of old lead pipes and related projects.
What conditions has Mayor Randall Woodfin set for supporting the loan application?
Mayor Woodfin demands guarantees that the water board will not raise customer rates, establish an in-house law department, and set goals for minority participation in construction projects.
What legal situation is affecting the Birmingham Water Works Board?
A federal lawsuit is pending from the city against the utility regarding the law that changed the board’s structure, and its resolution is needed before issuing debt or securing the loans.
How will customers be notified about lead pipes in their homes?
Over 71,000 Birmingham customers will receive letters advising them to check for lead pipes in their homes as part of new federal EPA requirements targeting lead service lines.
What proactive measures is the Birmingham Water Works taking regarding water quality?
The Birmingham Water Works tests water proactively and provides resources and guidance to customers with identified lead risks, including free water filter pitchers if applicable.
Key Features Overview
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Loan Amount | $183 million for lead pipe replacement |
| Mayor’s Conditions | No rate increases, in-house law department, minority participation goals |
| Legal Issues | Federal lawsuit over board structure affecting utility operations |
| Community Notification | Letters sent to 71,000 customers about potential lead pipes |
| Proactive Testing | Utilizing water testing and providing resources for lead risk management |
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Additional Resources
- Al.com: Birmingham Mayor Issues Conditions to Water Board for $183 Million Loan
- Wikipedia: Water Quality
- WBRC: Birmingham Water Works Sending Lead Pipes Letter to Some Customers
- Google Search: Lead Water Pipes
- WVTM13: Birmingham Water Works Potential Lead Pipes
- Google Scholar: Water Pipe Replacement
- Birmingham Times: Birmingham Water Works Customers to Receive Letters of Potential Lead Issues
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Lead Pipes
- WBRC Video: Birmingham Water Works Sending Lead Pipes Letter to Some Customers
- Google News: Birmingham Water Works
Author: STAFF HERE BIRMINGHAM WRITER
The BIRMINGHAM STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBirmingham.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Birmingham, Jefferson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Sidewalk Film Festival, Sloss Music & Arts Festival, Magic City Classic, and civil rights commemorations. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Birmingham Business Alliance and the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as UAB Medicine, Regions Bank, and Encompass Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREHuntsville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.
