Homewood Residents Prepare for Crucial Vote on Shift to City Manager Government Structure

Community Meeting Discussion

Homewood Gears Up for Important Vote on Government Structure

Homewood residents will head to the polls on Tuesday, September 24, 2024, to cast their votes on a significant referendum that could change the city’s government structure. Voters will decide whether to approve a shift from the current mayor-council format to a city manager/council government, allowing the city to hire a full-time city manager to oversee executive duties.

Election Details

Polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. at several designated locations across the city:

• Ward 1: Homewood Recreation Center, 1632 Oxmoor Road
• Ward 2: Senior Citizens Center, 816 Oak Grove Road
• Ward 3: Edgewood Elementary School, 901 College Avenue
• Ward 4: Homewood Public Library, 1721 Oxmoor Road
• Ward 5: Shades Cahaba School, 3001 Independence Drive

Understanding the Referendum

The referendum, presented on the ballot as a straightforward yes or no question, represents a pivotal decision for the future governance of Homewood. If the vote passes, the city would transition to a four-ward system with a five-member council—one member representing each ward and the mayor serving as the council president. This new structure would replace the current system, which consists of a five-ward and 11-member council.

The proposed change is backed by the Alabama Code 11-43a-28, which allows for the hiring of a city manager to assume the role of chief executive, thus streamlining management of city affairs. This could potentially bring about a more efficient and professional approach to city governance.

Potential Outcomes

If the referendum fails, there is still the option for Homewood’s City Council to hire a city manager by passing an ordinance, though this would require further evaluation and potential adjustments to the council’s strategy. Alex Wyatt, the City Council president, has indicated that a decision on next steps would be necessary should the referendum not pass.

Regardless of the outcome, the residents of Homewood are encouraged to participate actively in the voting process. Every vote will count in determining the future structure of their local government.

Community Engagement and Discussion

As the vote draws near, community conversations have centered around the implications of the proposed changes. Some citizens have expressed concerns regarding the new structure, while others see it as a necessary evolution for the city’s governance. Various meetings and discussions have been held, including a recent chamber luncheon where the possibilities of hiring an interim city manager were brought to the table, should the referendum gain approval.

As the city approaches this critical juncture, it will be essential for voters to consider the long-term effects of their decision on the community.

Stay Informed

Residents are encouraged to stay connected and informed about the ongoing discussions and updates regarding the referendum. For the latest news and information, community members can connect through social media platforms or sign up for newsletters that deliver updates straight to their inboxes each weekday morning.

As the clock ticks down to Election Day, Homewood prepares for what could be a historic vote impacting the governance of the city. Residents will soon have the opportunity to make their voices heard.

Author: HERE Birmingham