Birmingham Water Works Board Set for a Major Overhaul in 2025
As Birmingham prepares for a significant change at the Birmingham Water Works Board, Mayor Randall Woodfin is stepping in to ensure the future of the city’s water services is in capable hands. With all nine board seats ending their terms in December 2024, the mayor believes now is the perfect time to compose a team of individuals who truly understand good governance and the importance of community service.
Fresh Faces and Meaningful Change
On his agenda for the upcoming Tuesday, Woodfin aims to announce the appointments of two promising candidates: Dr. Monique Witherspoon, an associate professor and associate dean at Samford University, and Dr. Andre’ McShan, an occupational physician at The Workplace at UAB Highlands. These experienced professionals will step into the mayor’s seats on the board, bringing their unique backgrounds to a crucial role in the city.
Meanwhile, the Birmingham City Council is gearing up to confirm the reappointment of current board chair Tereshia Huffman and member Larry Ward. They also plan to introduce new members such as Jonathan Harris, who recently retired after nearly 30 years managing water treatment, and Ivan W. Holloway, who brings real estate development experience as the executive director at Urban Impact.
Focus on Skills and Experience
City Council President Darrell O‘Quinn stated, “We’re looking at skill sets,” emphasizing the importance of a solid resume and a genuine commitment to serving the community. With relationships playing a role in the selection process, the council aims to ensure that every appointment is strategic and beneficial for the board’s future.
A Lesson Learned
Historically, the Birmingham Water Works Board has faced its fair share of challenges, including an uphill battle concerning customer service and accountability. In 2022, during a particularly tumultuous period marked by unaffordable customer bills, Mayor Woodfin did not hold back with his remarks. He made it clear that he expected immediate accountability from the board, making it a priority to ensure that no vulnerable residents suffered due to poor management.
Now, with a new chance to shape the board’s future, the mayor envisions a team that understands the essence of governance. “If there was ever an opportunity to elect a board of people who understood what board governance means, playing ‘team’ means, effective communications… then everything else should work itself out,” Woodfin noted.
What’s Next for the Board?
Looking ahead, the new board members will start their four-year terms on January 1, 2025, following the conclusion of the current members’ terms on December 31, 2024. The current board members, including George Munchus and Lucien Blankenship, will not continue in their roles after this date, with Munchus being a council appointment and Blankenship appointed by the mayor.
It’s worth mentioning that a recent lawsuit involving Munchus and Blankenship, which claimed the board refused to pay them a stipend due to a “loyalty pledge” dispute with Huffman, was dismissed by a Jefferson County judge last October.
Looking for Effective Leadership
As the board seeks to build a stronger foundation, all eyes are on the incoming appointments. Woodfin emphasizes the importance of hiring a competent CEO—someone who can manage day-to-day operations effectively. He believes that successful leadership, coupled with a dedicated team, will help restore the faith of customers in the Birmingham Water Works Board.
The residents of Birmingham should keep their fingers crossed as this new chapter for the Birmingham Water Works Board begins to unfold. With fresh perspectives and a commitment to service, the hope is that this team can rise above the past and provide reliable, accountable water services to the community.
