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B I R M I N G H A M F O R W A R D
Inside this Issue
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Submitted by
The Mayor’s Office of
Economic Development
Lisa D. Cooper - Director
William A. Bell, Sr.
MAYOR
Visit us on the web at
www.birminghamal.gov
Mission Statement The Mission of the Mayor’s Office of Economic Development is to facilitate the growth, diversification, and stability of the Birmingham economy; to create meaningful employment opportunities for all of the citizens of the city; and through an expanded economy, to provide a stable and growing tax base for the operations of city government.
JULY 2017
MAYOR’S OFFICE OF
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
COMMITTEE REPORT
New Economic Development Projects
June 2017
NAME DESCRIPTION
JOBS CREATED AND/OR
RETAINED CITY
INCENTIVES
20 Midtown Phase 2
Site preparation for Phase 2, located across the street from Publix on 20th Street South is nearing completion. Developer has LOIs and agreements with a number of retailers, not yet announced.
TBD Included in Phase 1.
4th Ave Historic District Assisting with retail business plan for store front
TBD TBD
Alabama Crown Building B. L. Harbert Construction Company has purchased the vacant Alabama Crown building off Lakeshore Parkway and will convert it to a fabrication plant.
20 initially, growing to 50 IDB abatements approved on November 7,
Alabama Outdoors
Company has purchased a building on 1st Avenue South and will relocate its corporate headquarters, warehousing and distribution from Homewood to Birmingham. Will also add a retail outlet in Pepper Place.
80 Possible IDB abatements.
AllSouth Appliance
Presently located in Homewood, the company is considering a relocation to the former Long-Lewis Ford buildings downtown. Security is a major concern and meetings are being set up with B’ham Police Department to evaluate the company’s concerns and hopefully alleviate them.
TBD Expected request not yet received.
America’s First Federal Credit Union Located on the western edge of the CBD, America’s First has announced a $20 Million expansion.
85 Infrastructure assistance
BEAT Meeting scheduled for 7/6/17 with Frank Dominick to update proposed Ensley Flat Project
TBD TBD
BioGX
Very High tech provider of medical products and technology locating out of Innovation Depot is looking for sites in the City of Birmingham, with a favored site being adjacent to the former Trinity Medical Center on Montclair Road
70 Possible IDB abatements
Black Belt Technologies Interested in creating a business incubator in downtown North Birmingham
TBD N/A
Bistro 218
Downtown restaurant on 20th Street North plans expansion to double its size. Owner is in the process of completing a cost-benefit analysis as he plans to ask for City incentives.
20 TBD
Carrigan’s Development
Located in the former Libby Rich Plant Odyssey location, this second Carrigan’s location is hoping to open by the end of the year. A development agreement received the BFED recommendation on June 26 and will go to Council on July 11.
TBD
Proposed revenue sharing of up to
40% of actual sales tax revenues for 5
years.
Central City
Project encompasses a half block anchored by the former Waite’s Bakery on 7th Avenue South. Project is mixed-use residential-retail with a parking deck. Site preparation underway.
400
Up to $480,000 based on actual sales tax revenue over 5 years. .
Century Plaza Re-use ED is working with Rev. Beavers, Dr. Perry Ward and local developer Billy Eyster to convert the vacant Century Plaza to a church, retail and a truck driving school.
200 No specific request
received.
Convention and Vistitors Bureau The CVB has outgrown space in the BJCC complex and ED is assisting in securing space for a relocation.
40 retained None
New Economic Development Projects
June 2017
NAME DESCRIPTION
JOBS CREATED AND/OR
RETAINED CITY
INCENTIVES
Davis School Early stages of the restoration of the former Davis school into a mixed use residential retail project.
TBD TBD
Department of Commerce Project Department of Commerce Project considering Birmingham location along with sites in other states. Very early stages and further details TBD.
TBD TBD
EDA-RLF Jefferson County submitted option for collateral for loan 6/28/17
N/A N/A
Fitz-Thors Consulting Engineering
Presently located in Vance, this Mercedes Supplier has purchased the former Long-Lewis Hardware building downtown and will move its operation to the COB over the next 6 months. Other vacant space in the building is being marketed to other companies.
85 Expected request not yet received.
Fleetio
A transportation fleet management company that has moved into the Ladd Building on 19th Street. The company manages fleet operation for many large companies in the Southeast.
27 None
Forestall Art Supply
Relocated from Palisades and, after the fact, asked if incentives assistance would be available from the City, Details are being put in a letter to Lisa Cooper.
0 added TBD
Hilton (Colonnade) New owner plans $11 million in capital improvements in converting the hotel to Double Tree.
TBD TBD
Holy Family Hospital Reaching out to Developer for update and status of project
N/A N/A
Inland Seafood Ensley seafood processing facility planning a major expansion in Ensley. Development Agreement should go to BFED on July 10.
80 HUD 108 support
Iron City Rickshaw Company New Business looking to start rickshaw service to entertainment district, 20th St & Southside
TBD N/A
Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office
The lease agreement with the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office has been fully executed. The Sherriff’s Office will improve the parking lot for use by the Metro Area Crime Center and some of the Sheriff’s Office employees.
TBD TBD
LabCorp Final construction punch list completed and a ribbon cutting is scheduled this summer.
400 retained None
Masonic Temple Meeting scheduled for 7/6/17 to discuss partners involved in project
TBD TBD
Miami Fusion Café Met with representatives to discuss expansion plans TBD TBD
Negro Southern League Museum Restaurant
ED is working with The Museum staff to locate a major family restaurant in the building. Currently, three prospects are expected to submit proposals in the next 2 weeks.
TBD TBD
New Economic Development Projects
June 2017
NAME DESCRIPTION
JOBS CREATED AND/OR
RETAINED CITY
INCENTIVES
Panda Express Located on Highway 280, this is a varied menu family dining restaurant scheduled to open this summer.
40 None.
Parkside Parking
The ED Department is working with the Birmingham Parking Authority to determine the feasibility of building a parking deck on the former Wittichen Supply site in the Parkside District. The deck would serve numerous planned retail entities in the District
N/A None
Project 1902 Local company looking to build a new distribution center in North Birmingham.
Retained and new TBD TBD
Project 96 Major unoccupied building in the City Center is expected to be under contract to a leading hotel developer by mid-September.
100 TBD
Project Acquisition
OED working with STRADA on acquiring property for the rapid rail system. The Federal Agreement with the COB was signed May 31, 2017. Letters will be drafted to go out to the property owners as soon as possible during the month of June 2017.
TBD
TBD
Project Aurora
After a period of inactivity, Department of Commerce Project considering Birmingham location along with sites in other states has become active. Very early stages and further details TBD.
1000 TBD
Project B&B Staff is preparing an offer to the State per Mayor directive to purchase Armory
50 N/A
Project Blade A manufacturing facility is very close to purchasing a vacant building in Valley East Industrial Park. 65
IDB abatements
Project BRT
OED is working with STRADA on acquiring property for the rapid rail system. Letters are being drafted and will be mailed to the property owners.
TBD
Project Burkett Project is being prepared to advance to Administration & Technology Committee.
Project Cafe Working w A Spurling to bring a restaurant to downtown Ensley
TBD TBD
Project Callins Property owner interested in development.
TBD TBD
Project Clue
Brought to the City by the BBA, several meetings have been held to try and advance this aviation project at the airport. No definitive request for incentives yet received as we await direction from the developer and the prospect.
200 TBD
Project Data
The Company is based out of Bridgeport, CT. They have identified property in the western area to build the new office. The company has engaged an Engineering firm to perform a flood mitigation study. OED is working with the company on acquiring City-owned sites and coordinating the development of the project with other City departments.
80 TBD
New Economic Development Projects
June 2017
NAME DESCRIPTION
JOBS CREATED AND/OR
RETAINED CITY
INCENTIVES
Project Doctor A group of investors is pursuing a major venue in the Parkside area. ED and Corporate Realty are pursuing and assisting the prospect.
200 IDB abatements
Project Gallery Proposed High End Used Car dealership relocating from Homewood to Birmingham
15 N/A
Project John
Developer interested in developing a portion of Daniel Payne and the adjacent property into a Town Center. Developer is working on providing additional information to support the project.
TBD
TBD
Project Health
OED is working with an Organization looking to develop the former Northern Healthcare Center. The legal department is in the process of drafting a redevelopment agreement. The new center plans to serve the Northern area of the City.
60 TBD
Project MAB
A North Carolina Developer is working with the ED Department to place a major retail project, anchored by a full service grocery store at a location in the Oxmoor Valley.
175
Mayor Bell has responded to incentives request & is awaiting a response from the developer.
Project Mixed Use OED working with local developer that is interested in repurposing a City-owned building in the CBD.
TBD TBD
Project Molasses A distillery and event center, the project continues to progress with a second site under consideration.
100 IDB abatements
Project Relocation
A traffic study is needed to review any possible additional curb cuts along Daniel Payne Industrial Drive. OED staff working with a company to locate a headquarter office/warehouse facility in the Daniel Payne Industrial Park on approximately 20+/- acres.
TBD TBD
Project Road Builder
Company out of Texas is partnering with the Alabama Department of Transportation to provide construction support for the interstate projects in the City.
400
IDB abatements
Project State ED working on a project looking to locate in the eastern area upon property acquisition.
TBD TBD
Project Sunrise
Actually located just outside the COB and the Valley East Industrial Park, this 700 employee manufacturing and assembly plant will give ample employment opportunities to nearby Birmingham residents and the City will have an excellent opportunity to attract suppliers to Valley East.
TBD
Acreage for employee parking in adjacent COB land
donated with approval of the
Mayor and Council.
Project Tom
Major Birmingham Construction Company considering expansion in the City. Early stages of planning which could include a request for incentives.
TBD TBD
Project Theatre
OED working with a company interested in acquiring property in the downtown business district. A letter was sent to the company with a recommended sales price. OED is waiting on response from the company in order to move forward with the project.
TBD
TBD
New Economic Development Projects
June 2017
NAME DESCRIPTION
JOBS CREATED AND/OR
RETAINED CITY
INCENTIVES
Project Towers
Project was approved by Council. Developer is in the Due Diligence period of the project. OED worked with Community Development on the project. The Developer proposed to build homes on the 25+/- acres of City-owned property in the Oxmoor area.
TBD TBD
Project Zeus
Energy company looking to build on 80 acres at the Ensley Works, creating 55 new jobs in year one and 270 jobs by the end of year 3. Environmental concerns voiced by US Steel (property owner) have temporarily delayed the project.
70
Statutory abatements before the IDB will be requested as the
only incentive.
Relocation of IRS and SBA Presently located off Lakeshore Parkway, the offices will relocate to the CBD over the next year.
TBD None
RX Benefits Company is located on Blue Lake Drive in B’ham and considering expansion to Perimeter Park South. Other non-City sites also being considered.
90 retained, growing to 200.
IDB abatements.
Salvation Army Legal department finalizing development agreement for the sale of Sloss School
TBD
Properties
Shindigs
Located in the former V Richards, the project includes a restaurant, bar and catering operation. Design Review approval obtained. Incentive request made; Mayor responded; business owner has asked for further consideration.
50 None requested as
of this report.
Southland Holdings
Company out of Texas is partnering with the Alabama Department of Transportation to provide construction support for the interstate projects in the City.
400
IDB abatements
Southland Tube Company purchased by Nucor Steel. Status of planned expansion TBD
0 Assistance with
street vacation fee requested.
Theodore Building New owner of vacant warehouse on 2nd Avenue South will open an events center and arts studio.
10 None
Topgolf Development Agreement approved by Council. Site prep to begin this month.
400 Incentives based on sharing of future
sales tax revenues.
Trinity Montclair
Recent renewed interest in redeveloping the site is being shown by a Maryland development company. Conversations are in the very early stages. Maryland developers visited site on June 21 and are likely to make an offer to purchase.
TBD TBD
Vineyard Vines Winery Headquarters The Corporate Headquarters and sales offices of this Alabama winery have relocated to 2 North Twentieth.
25
None
Waites
Project encompasses a half block anchored by the former Waite’s Bakery on 7th Avenue South.
Project is mixed-use residential-retail with a parking deck. Ribbon cutting held June 28.
120
Up to $480,000 based on actual sales tax revenue over 5 years. .
Wildwood Redevelopment The Wildwood shopping complex is in the early stages of redevelopment by a Nashville based developer. Incentive request has been made and a recommendation to Council is in process.
300 TBD
New Economic Development Projects
June 2017
NAME DESCRIPTION
JOBS CREATED AND/OR
RETAINED CITY
INCENTIVES
Zekelman Industries Industrial manufacturer expected to locate in the Valley East Industrial Park. IDB abatements to be considered on June 29.
25 IDB only.
Highlighted New Projects (69) and Jobs (5,622)
Existing Economic Development Projects
As of June 2017 Highlighted Existing Projects (10) and Potential Job Creation (1,216)
NAME DESCRIPTION
JOBS CREATED AND/OR
RETAINED CITY
INCENTIVES
5 Points West Developers, LLC OED is working with Tim Clay on finalizing the purchase of the former 5 Points West Library. Closing is pending the completion of the Due Diligence process.
42+/- New Jobs TBD
CrossPlex Development
Installation of infrastructure underway. Infrastructure development was approved by Council and ground breaking was held on January 11th.
TBD
Incentives for retail locating at the site
are available and will be developed in detail as site
selection continues.
Downtown 20th Street Post Office Redevelopment
Developer looking at mixed-use retail and is progressing very well toward completion.
TBD NONE
REQUESTED AT THIS TIME
Fairfield Inn Downtown Project is in early construction phases as a part of the development of the Empire Hotel/Fairfield development
130 DRA abatements
Hilton Brand Hotels A Dothan developer is building a dual function, 2 hotel complex on 3rd Avenue South. Construction is underway.
140 TBD
Kamtek-related Industrial Access Road and Bridge Grant
Application has been approved by ALDOT to improve Sterlite Drive and Meadow Craft Road as a result of the most recent Kamtek expansions. County is sharing in the application. Project is in PEP in the design phase.
354 new
Engineering and Design costs. Approximately $150,000.
Miller Holding Company Developer is doing its due diligence with anchor tenant prior to closing on the land sale. Closing on the property is expected on or before September 2017.
150 9N9 PROJECT
(TBD)
Project P&S Meeting scheduled for 7/6/17 to discuss update of expansion
Retained 200 Proposed 200 New
TBD
The Empire Building The COB and REV Birmingham are working with the developer to convert the unoccupied Empire Building to a Marriott Hotel which will house a Chris Hastings restaurant.
TBD
$500,000 in infrastructure for the
entire 4 corners being developed.
Trinity Medical Center
The former hospital, now empty following the relocation of patients to Grandview Medical Center on Highway 280 is being marketed by Graham & Company and the City for future corporate headquarters, offices, labs, call centers or other potential uses.
TBD TBD
Birmingham Business Development Loan Program
Portfolio Status
As June 2017
Total Loan Pool Dollars: $ 5,000,000 Total Committed Funds: $ 0 Total Funds Remaining: $ 5,000,000
Total Active Loans: 0 Total Jobs Created/Retained: 1102
The City of Birmingham administers the Birmingham Business Development Loan Program which offers “Bank Guaranteed” loans at a minimum amount of $100K and up to $1M at “Current Market Rates” for a term of up to 24 months. These loans must be “guaranteed” by a direct pay, irrevocable letter
of credit from a bank. The loans executed year-to-date under this program are listed in the table below to reflect the diverse types of commercial projects being done utilizing
these funds in the various commercial districts throughout the City of Birmingham.
PROJECT NAME LOAN AMOUNT JOBS CREATED PROJECT NARRATIVE 2ND @ 22ND PARTNERS, LLC
FORMER SCREENING ROOM BLDG. $1,000,000
LOAN PAID: JAN 2010
PAID OFF
RBC BANK
40 NEW DOWNTOWN CORPORATE
HEADQUARTERS OF THE RED CROSS
DIVISION AVENUE LLP D/B/A ONE STOP ENVIRONMENTAL
$628,976
LOAN PAID: FEB 2011
PAID OFF
RED MOUNTAIN BANK/NBC
50 NEW CORPORATE HEADQUARTERS FOR ONE
STOP ENVIRONMENTAL IN WOODLAWN
BUTLER’S EXECUTIVE GROOMING LOUNGE $325,000
LOAN PAID: MAR 2011
PAID OFF
REGIONS BANK
7 UPSCALE BARBERING SALON FOR
CORPORATE EXECUTIVES AND BUSINESS PROFESSIONALS
CITY CENTER COMPANY, LLC FORMER PIZIZ BUILDING
$1,000,000
LOAN PAID: JUL 2010
PAID OFF
OAKWORTH CAPITAL
811 COMBINED NEW AND RETAINED JOBS, PLUS TEMPORARY CONSTRUCTION JOBS
REDEVELOPMENT OF FORMER PIZITZ BUILDING DOWNTOWN
TWIN OAKS INVESTMENT GROUP D/B/A NAIA CORPORATION
$414,000
LOAN PAID: JUL 2011
PAID OFF
FIRST COMMERCIAL BANK
50 REDEVELOPMENT OF THE HISTORIC 32ND STREET BAPTIST CHURCH IN AVONDALE
CRD-HOTEL 1 D/B/A HYATT PLACE NOW KNOWN AS
SPRINGHILL SUITES $600,000
LOAN PAID: JUN 2010
PAID OFF
SERVIS FIRST BANK
41 NEW HYATT PLACE HOTEL IN DOWNTOWN
CITY CENTER
JOHNSON PROPERTIES, LLC D/B/A DOG DAYS OF BIRMINGHAM
$335,000
LOAN PAID: APRIL 2012
PAID OFF
REGIONS BANK
5 REDEVELOPMENT OF THE FORMER HUNTER FURNITURE STORE AS A DOGGIE DAY CARE
CENTER
RFS, LLC D/B/A DUNKIN DONUTS
$325,000
LOAN PAID: OCT. 2012
PAID OFF
FIRST COMMERCIAL BANK
50 NEW DUNKIN DONUTS FRANCHISE LOCATED
ON 6TH AVENUE SOUTH
RAILROAD SQUARE, LLC FORMER NABISCO BUILDING
$1,000,000
LOAN PAID: MAR 2013
PAID OFF
ALIANT BANK
14 REDEVELOPMENT OF THE FORMER NATIONAL BISCUIT COMPANY ON SOUTHSIDE NEAR RAILROAD PARK
MSB-WU PROPERTIES, LLC SOCIAL VENTURE
$1,000,000
MATURING: OCT. 2014
PAID OFF
FIRST COMMERCIAL BANK
6 REDEVELOPMENT OF A COMMERCIAL
WAREHOUSE FOR A SOCIAL/ARTS INCUBATOR IN THE WOODLAWN COMMUNITY
The Denechaud House, LLC $250,000
MATURING: JUNE 2015
PAID OFF
CADENCE BANK
6 Redevelopment of the historic Comer and Upshaw Law Firm Building on 3rd Avenue
North.
Birmingham Business Development Loan Program
Portfolio Status
As June 2017
Total Loan Pool Dollars: $ 5,000,000 Total Committed Funds: $ 0 Total Funds Remaining: $ 5,000,000
Total Active Loans: 0 Total Jobs Created/Retained: 1102
The City of Birmingham administers the Birmingham Business Development Loan Program which offers “Bank Guaranteed” loans at a minimum amount of $100K and up to $1M at “Current Market Rates” for a term of up to 24 months. These loans must be “guaranteed” by a direct pay, irrevocable letter
of credit from a bank. The loans executed year-to-date under this program are listed in the table below to reflect the diverse types of commercial projects being done utilizing
these funds in the various commercial districts throughout the City of Birmingham.
PROJECT NAME LOAN AMOUNT JOBS CREATED PROJECT NARRATIVE
Whitmire Building, LLC K-Lofts $550,000
LOAN PAID: FEBRUARY 2015
PAID OFF
SERVISFIRST BANK
4-8 New Mixed-use redevelopment project
involving 4 lofts and two retail storefronts on 3rd Avenue North Downtown
1215 Parkside, LLC
Tillman Levinson Annex Bldg. $504,000
LOAN PAID: MAY 2016
PAID OFF
SERVISFIRST BANK
10 New Have been notified regarding expiration
of loan May 13, 2016
Philips Taber, LLC $150,000
LOAN PAID: FEB 2016
PAID OFF
SERVISFIRST BANK
4 New Fitness and Ballet Barre Style Studio in
the Lakeview District.
New Business Licenses Issued By District for May 2017
(June 2017 data will be available on the next ED Committee Report) As part of the Mayor’s 9-N-9 Initiative the Mayor’s Office of Economic Development will provide in this monthly report, the number of New Business Licenses issued By-District in the City of Birmingham.
DISTRICT # Licenses Issued
Council District One 8 Council District Two 7 Council District Three 10 Council District Four 4 Council District Five 29 Council District Six 6 Council District Seven 8 Council District Eight 1 Council District Nine 2
Total New Business Licenses Issued 75
HUB Zone Businesses 49
Total Businesses located outside of City limits doing business within City limits. 94
0
5
10
15
20
25
30
35
DistrictOne
DistrictTwo
DistrictThree
DistrictFour
DistrictFive
DistrictSix
DistrictSeven
DistrictEight
DistrictNine
New Business LicensesComparisons Data
May-16 May-17
Other Economic Development Initiatives As of June 2017
Comprehensive Plan
To review a copy of the Birmingham Comprehensive Plan visit: http://www.birminghamcomprehensiveplan.com. The OED is a participant in the Implementation Team for the following Birmingham Comprehensive Plan Framework Plans: Eastern Area, Pratt City/Ensley, Titusville; West End; 5 Points West; and North Birmingham.
Birmingham FTZ
Marketing subzone and zone benefits to prospective manufacturing companies.
Merchants Meetings
5 Points South Merchants Association: Next meeting: TBA. 5 Pts W Neighborhood Association: Addressed issue of community policing efforts, Street Merchants concerns proposed Business Plan for Association East Lake Merchants Association (ELMA): Next meeting: TBA Woodlawn Business Association (WBA): Next meeting: TBA. Ensley Merchants Association (EMA): Working with REV Meeting with the association to discuss plans for downtown Ensley: Next meeting: TBA African American Business Council (AABC): Next meeting: TBA. Forest Park/South Avondale Business Association: TBA. South Region’s Minority Business Council/Advisory Committee: Next Meeting TBA Birmingham Metro Chamber of Commerce: Next Meeting TBA
Grant Opportunities
Identifying grant opportunities from economic development related agencies. In addition, Andrew Mayo has been an active participant on the Grants Office Task Force Initiative.
Jefferson County Workforce Investment Board
The Workforce Investment Act of 1998 (WIA) supersedes the Job Training Partnership Act (JTPA) and amends the Wagner-Peyser Act. WIA also contains the Adult Education and Family Literacy Act (title II) and the Rehabilitation Act Amendments of 1998 (title IV). WIA reforms federal job training programs and creates a new, comprehensive workforce investment system. The kickoff for the Jefferson County Workforce Investment Board has not taken place yet. OED continues to “share” employment opportunities internally and with economic development partners.
Region 4 Workforce Development Council
http://www.madeinalabama.com/divisions/workforce-development/alabama-workforce-council/region-4-3/
Next Meeting: July, 2017 The Regional Workforce Councils were codified under Governor Riley in 2006. In 2015, re-alignment of the Regional Workforce Council by the Alabama State Legislature was formally established through ACT # 2015-450 as a means of using council and WIOA Board Resources more efficiently. The map of the new regions has been created and may be viewed at http://www.madeinalabama.com/2015/09/7-RWC-Map-wo-Clusters.jpg
EB-5 BIRMINGHAM
We anticipate that our EB5 application will be approved in 2017. In the meantime, our intern Charles is pursuing a unique opportunity to create a joint film school in Birmingham and potentially with our Israeli Sister City through the EB-5 program.
Other Economic Development Initiatives As of June 2017
Sister Cities International
VINNYTSIA SISTER CITY VISIT TO
BIRMINGHAM JUNE 5-7, 2017
Serhiy Morhunov, Mayor of Vinnytsia; Vladyslav Skalskyy, Deputy Mayor of Vinnytsia; Volodymyr Semeniuk, Director General of AGRANA Fruit Ukraine, representing sustainable business; Olha Rebyak, Development Director of AVIS LLC Enterprise and Igor Dobriansky-
Founder/CEO of Sizecar
MAEBASHI RUN
OPEN WORLD UKRAINIAN DELEGATION
AFGHANISTAN • On May 26th, we met with a representative from Heart, Afghanistan to
discuss the potential of adding it as our newest sister city. An exploratory committee is forming to investigate the efficacy of the relationship.
CHINA • The Birmingham Sister Cities Commission was a sponsor of the 11th
Annual Chinese New Year Festival, which took place at Boutwell Auditorium on Saturday, January 28. The event, which featured dancing, music, food, culture booths and a colorful stage show, was well attended. Several Sister City Commission members participated in the festival.
• Penny Whiteside succeeded Stan Erdreich as chair of the committee. Committee plans include the review of current and past projects and discussion of future activities.
CZECH • The beer exchange is progressing nicely.
JAPAN • We sent a shipment of Quilts from our Quilters to Hitachi for the annual
show. Ms. Roberson and the school project has done wonderful things, with a photo exchange! We had four members of the Birmingham Track Club run in the Maebashi run this year! We will host Tago-san and Mayor Yamamoto in July. We will also once again host a two week English camp for the Kita School in Hitachi The Japan Committee is
looking for new members. UKRAINE
• Our Open World delegation was here April 28-May 6 and will delegates from throughout Ukraine. The group emphasized NGOs and Government transparency.
GHANA • Is working on finalizing a signing with Ashaiman and planning an adult
trip for summer of 2017. We have 7 adults and youth going to Ghana this June! Also a youth exchange targeting young men will done this summer!
ISRAEL • I have been working with Rosh Ha’Ayin and Vinnytsia to bring student
athletes this summer to the Maccabi games at the end of July. We have been very successful and it looks like we will have over 20 people in these 2 delegations. We are working hard to add Liverpool, but have not had success on the other end yet. We have several athletes from Ukraine and RH who will be coming to the Games! Please check out and share
the GoFundMe page https://www.gofundme.com/maccabi-athletes-from-sister-cities to help us raise the much-needed funds to bring these groups. They are planning to do volunteer in our Y camps while they are in Birmingham and we are open to other areas they can share about Sister City! We will also plan to use this opportunity to rebuild our school-to-school relationships with these cities through the teacher chaperones
bringing the athletes! If you have any other fundraising ideas please send them my way, tickets are expensive!
• Israel/Jordan Joint project- Charles Coleman working with Phillips Academy has put together a July exchange to Jordan and Israel and we have 4 eight graders on board for the trip. He has set up orientations for the youth and parents and is in the process of raising funds to offset the
cost to parents.
JORDAN • Working with Sen. Shelby’s office on possible USAID and other contacts
and possible youth exchange in the summer with Israel and Jordan for students form Phillips Academy. Updated Jordan report except for the attacks on the crusader castle in Karak but the Jordanian government is showing more determination to the help the city not be affected from the tourism point of view. The youth exchange is coming together.
ISRAEL/JORDAN YOUTH TRIP • Charles Coleman our intrepid Fulbright Scholar, Commencement speaker
and future Dartmouth student and John Mark Edwards will be leading a group of 4 middle school students in July to visit Al Karak and Rosh Ha’ayin! Below are photos from UAB’s spring 17 grad ceremony and the first
orientation meeting for the summer exchange!
Other Economic Development Initiatives As of June 2017
SIGNING OF THE SISTER CITIES AGREEMENT BETWEEN
BIRMINGHAM AND KINGSTON MISC. Virginia Beach will host 2017 Sister Cities International conference: July 13 th - 15th
HUNGARY • Kali is working with Joe Longoria on a cultural exchange trip tp
Székesfehérvár to participate in their music/culture festivals in August 2017. Szeke. is also sending athletes for the Maccabii Games this summer.
• The Association for the Maintenance of War Memorials and Sites
(hereinafter referred to as HáEmGo) and 16 member organizations, coordinated by the Krajczáros Foundation are organizing an International Candle Lightening Action on 11 November 2017. We kindly ask everybody, who supports this initiative, to express their respect towards the soldiers who died for their country by lighting up a candle on 11 November at 11:11 am at their local memorial place, military cemetery, home, school.
• We also have an inquiry about Hungarian football ENGLAND
• We expect a delegation in the fall and we will send the “Groovy” Vulcan this summer. Crystal our artist will paint our Lambanana as well.
ITALY
• No Report JAMAICA
• We signed a Sister City Agreement with Kingston on Feb. 15, 2017! SENEGAL
• Bettina is recruiting a new committee and Chair for 2018. NORTHERN IRELAND
• We hosted a group from Derry May 10-12. 2017.
Other Economic Development Initiatives As of June 2017
YOUTH GAMES
Youth Games is working on promoting Lacrosse in City Schools as part of our 2021 World Games outreach! The following schools listed below have received soft Lacrosse sticks and are teaching Lacrosse.
Arrington Middle Christian K-8 Central Park Green Acres Middle Huffman Middle Martha Gaskins Oxmoor Valley South Hampton K-8 Tuggle West End Academy
In addition, our 2017 US Youth Games is off to a fast start with nearly 1,000 student participating thus far. Several weeks ago we began with a volleyball clinic, followed by our bowling tournament on May 20th. On June 3rd, we had our US Youth Games Swimming meet and our basketball tourney is scheduled for June 14th – 15th. Next month, we will have our annual track competition at Birmingham Southern, which is scheduled for July 15th.
Economic Development Partners, Events & Opportunities
As of June 2017 NAME DESCRIPTION
Regional Planning Commission of Greater Birmingham
The Regional Planning Commission of Greater Birmingham (RPCGB) provides planning services, economic development
services and multiple initiatives for six counties and 84 communities throughout central Alabama. For more information
about the RPCGB visit our website at http://www.rpcgb.org
Birmingham Construction Industry Authority (BCIA)
The Birmingham Construction Industry Authority (BCIA) is one of several voluntary programs that are collectively referred to as
"The Birmingham Plan", a plan established in 1990 and designed to overcome the critical under-utilization of Minority and
Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (MBE/DBE) in the City of Birmingham’s economic growth.
For more information about other training classes visit
http://www.bcia1.org
Birmingham Business Alliance Birmingham Business Alliance Presents BREC Drive New Business with Social Media and
Email Marketing
Join investors of the BBA and members of the Gardendale, Homewood and Hoover Chambers of Commerce as we jointly
present this informative seminar.
Tuesday, July 25, 2017 - 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM Birmingham Business Alliance
505 20th Street, Suite 200 Birmingham, AL 35203
For more information visit the website at
http://www.birminghambusinessalliance.com
Birmingham Business Resource Center (BBRC)
The Birmingham Business Resource Center Since 1996, the BBRC has been a leading center for small business training, financing and technical assistance for small businesses. The BBRC remains committed to providing quality services for its
clients, and addressing the needs of the business community.
For more information contact us by phone at (205)250-6380 or visit us on the web at www.mybbrc.biz
Innovation Depot
Innovation Depot
The epicenter for technology, startups and entrepreneurs in the Birmingham region. Innovation Depot gives entrepreneurs a
competitive advantage in attracting customers, talent, mentors, press and funding to grow their business.
For more information visit our website at:
https://innovationdepot.org
Urban Impact
Urban Impact Inc. (UII) is a local place based economic development agency that advances asset building, economic
opportunity and revitalization of the Historic 4th Avenue Business District and the Civil Rights District through support and services
to assist individuals, businesses and developers.
For more information contact us by phone at (205) 328-1850 or visit us on the web at www.urbanimpactbirmingham.org
Economic Development Partners, Events & Opportunities
As of June 2017 NAME DESCRIPTION
U.S Small Business Administration Partnership
“Starting Your Business” workshop sponsored by the Mayor’s Office of Economic Development/ SCORE/SBA/Birmingham Public Library. The next seminar is scheduled for July 10, 2017. The seminar is free, but registration in advance is required. Please call Andrew Mayo in the City of Birmingham’s Office of Economic Development at (205) 254-2799, or email him at [email protected].
Birmingham Public Library/Office of Economic Development “Let’s Put Our Business On the Map”
www.gybo.com
“Let’s Put Our Business on the Map” sponsored by the Mayor’s Office of Economic Development and the Birmingham Public Library. The next seminar is scheduled for July 20th and August 17th. If you are interested in attending please contact Mr. Andrew Mayo at 254-2799 or [email protected] to register.
Economic Development Workforce Development Initiatives
June 2017 NAME DESCRIPTION
The Alabama Association of Nonprofits has posted several open positions from the Freshwater Land Trust (FLT). For more details on the job
descriptions and qualifications log on to http://www.aansocial.org
The Office of Minority Business Enterprise administers a certification program to identify small, minority-owned and women-owned businesses
capable of providing good and/or services to both the government and private sectors. Certification provides these firms with a “stamp of
approval” affirming that they are a credible business entity, which is valid for two years. The office encourages DBE’s, MBE’s and WBE’s to register
with the Alabama Department of Finance's Purchasing Division in order to receive bid solicitations. For more info log on to www.adeca.alabama.gov.
The Birmingham Division of the Alabama Career Center has a new location.
3216 – 4th Ave. South, Birmingham, Alabama 35222. The Center's telephone number (205-254-1300) will remain the same.
For information regarding job opportunities visit our website at http://joblink.alabama.gov.
As a leading provider of diversity recruitment and OFCCP Compliance Services, America’s Job Exchange is committed to assisting professionals in
acquiring gainful employment. Their website lists various positions from contractors who are actively looking for a diversity of candidates that will
assist job seekers in finding suitable employment. Visit www.americasjobsexchange.com for more info.
The Birmingham Urban League offers programs and services in key areas that affect economic stability and supports initiatives that are aligned to the
Opportunity Compact:
The Opportunity to Own, Comprehensive Housing Counseling Services The Opportunity to Earn, Workforce Development/Jobs
The Opportunity to Thrive, Youth Services The Opportunity to Prosper, Financial Empowerment Movement
For more info visit www.birminghamurbanleague.net.
The Personnel Board of Jefferson County has current job openings for various classifications listed on their website. In order to view a detailed description and apply to these openings you must access the website at
www.jobsquest.org.
Alabama Industrial Development Training
AIDT Offers Training Classes
Interview T.I.P.S.
Maritime Welding
Leadership Skills I & II
For additional information visit their website http://www.aidt.edu/classes or call (334) 280-4416.
Stay Connected with
Minority Business Development Agency
http://www.mbda.gov/blog?page=1
NEWS RELEASE
PRESS OFFICE
Release Date: Contact: June 28, 2017 Tiffani S. Clements, (202) 401-0035
Release Number: Internet Address: 17-45 http://www.sba.gov/news
SBA LAUNCHES NEW HUBZONE MAPS AND PARTNERS WITH U.S. DIGITAL SERVICE TO STREAMLINE AND ENHANCE ONLINE SERVICES FOR SMALL BUSINESSES
WASHINGTON, D.C.—The U.S. Small Business Administration announced today that it has launched a new Historically Underutilized Business Zones map (via Google Chrome) at www.sba.gov/hubzone-maps. The HUBZone map is the first step in the modernization effort of SBA’s federal contracting programs. SBA has partnered with the U.S. Digital Service to streamline and enhance online services for small businesses.
The new HUBZone map helps small businesses in urban and rural communities determine if they are eligible for participation in HUBZone’s program. It features the latest HUBZone designations, “Qualified Disaster Areas” and new features to improve usability and assist with HUBZone address assertions.
“We are excited about our partnership with the White House’s U.S. Digital Service and the improvements made to the HUBZone maps to modernize SBA’s contracting programs - making them more user-friendly, agile and nimble for the busy entrepreneurs that we support,” SBA Administrator Linda McMahon said. “This is one of many projects that we have worked on with the USDS team to leverage technology to support America’s small businesses.”
"The United States Digital Service is proud to work with the Small Business Administration to connect small businesses with opportunities through the certify.SBA.gov program," said Matt Cutts, Acting Administrator of the U.S. Digital Service. "Our team is excited about the launch of the improved HUBZone map. We're honored to work with the dedicated staff at SBA to continue to modernize the tools and services that support small businesses."
In March 2016, the SBA launched certify.SBA.gov–a modernized, web-based application to further streamline and improve the application and certification processes for small businesses and entrepreneurs seeking to do business with the federal government. Certify currently facilitates complete application and certification workflow for the Women Owned Small Business Program, including access to third party certification for women-owned small businesses. To help firms assess their eligibility for SBA contracting programs, Certify’ s “Am I Eligible?” tool helps small businesses determine if the certification programs are a good fit for their businesses through a series of questions. The site will eventually serve additional SBA certification programs, including 8(a) Business Development Program and the HUBZone Program.
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July 11‐13, 2017
July 18‐20, 2017
Design of Experiments (DOE) Training
Mercedes Benz Training Center‐Vance, AL
Southern Union State Community College‐Opelika, AL
Honoring Our Own
Honored & Served as Panelist
Alabama State Black Chamber of Commerce 2017 Entrepreneurs & Innovators Conference
Breaking Down Barriers June 22-23, 2017
Andrew J. Mayo, M.U.R.P Economic Development Specialist
These seminars are sponsored by the Office of Economic Development,
SCORE, and the Birmingham Public Library.
If you are thinking of starting a business of your own, but don’t know where
to begin, register now for this free seminar presented by SCORE (Service Corps
of Retired Executives). SCORE representatives will provide an overview of the
various aspects involved in planning, starting, and operating a business. The
seminar is , but registration is required. Each seminar will cover the same
topics, but those who are interested are welcome to attend more than one day.
To register, please contact Andy Mayo in the City of Birmingham’s
Office of Economic Development at (205) 254-2774 or
The mission of the BMBCC is to help empower, advance, and sustain our African Americans communities through entrepreneurship, education, and business development.
Tuesday, July 11 11:30AM - 1:00PM
Alabama Power Corporate Office (downtown)
Tasha McDonald Scott (www.tashamscott.com) is our Chamber Guest Speaker Tuesday July 11
and she will show you how to Catapult your business growth!
Tasha McDonald Scott
Network, enjoy lunch, and get tips to take your business to the next level!!! Register
here: www.BirminghamMetroBcc.org/membership
Limited Tickets Available: Free for members / $15 for non-members
Sign up today www.birminghammetrobcc.org/membership.html
The Southern Region Minority Supplier Development Council (SRMSDC) and its Sponsors are pleased to present the Southern Region Diverse Supplier Automotive Summit. This event is designed to connect businesses in the automotive industry with certified MBEs across the region. The Summit will feature seminars, SRMSDC Automotive Corporate Members, Tier 1 / Prime Suppliers, and Certified MBE Suppliers.
The Southern Region Diverse Supplier Automotive Summit will be held on Wednesday, July 26, 2017, at 8 a.m. at Regions Field located at 1401 1st Avenue South, Birmingham, AL 35203. Parking will be available near the Stadium and any overflow via metered parking.
We’ve Moved
The Birmingham Division of the Alabama Career Center has a new home.
Please visit us at our new location 3216 – 4th Avenue South
Birmingham, Alabama 35222 The Center's telephone number (205-254-1300) will remain the same.
For information regarding job opportunities visit our website at
http://joblink.alabama.gov
Birmingham’s MAX Central Station is open, more sections coming soon
June 21, 2017
One station to host them all – Birmingham’s MAX
Central Station (the first of four) is here!
The station opened for operation at 4:30 a.m. on June
21st, providing hope for Birmingham transportation.
The massive $32 million transit project, started in
2014, combines four major avenues of transportation:
Amtrak
Max
Greyhound
Megabus
The idea behind the facility was sited by al.com to be that of revving up “ridership” within the
city.
“This has been a long time coming and we’re so excited to have a facility that is re flective of
the service we always strive to provide…” – Barbara Murdock, BJCTA Executive Director, said
in a statement.
MAX Central Station and Facility details:
Located on Morris Ave., it’s hard to miss the massive building resting between 17th and 19th
street. With 300 parking spaces, for those traveling, and designated spots for the particular bus
systems, riding in the Magic City has finally improved!
FYI, Megabus, Amtrak, and Greyhound terminals will be operational soon.
In perfect Birmingham, AL fashion, there will also be a cafe inside “Central Station”.
Olivia’s Transit Cafe will open at the end of the month, supplying breakfast biscuits, salads,
sandwiches, pizzas, soups, and a delicious meat & two vegetable special!
Finally, as we celebrate this major expansion for Birmingham, a ribbon cutting was scheduled
for June 30th.
Birmingham Reinvestment Creates Major
Impact
A recently announced $19 million expansion of
America’s First Credit Union is the latest investment in
the City Center. A new four-story tower will add 45,000
square feet to the existing campus on downtown’s
western edge, adjacent to the newly- designated
Birmingham Civil Rights National Monument site.
This project, which will add 90 jobs to the west side of
downtown, was championed by Mayor William Bell and
enhances the already robust employment opportunities
in Birmingham's urban core.
With the recently announced National Monument designation for our Civil Rights district and the
impact of the Innovation Depot in growing new businesses, the northwest side of downtown
Birmingham is poised for growth. These catalysts, in addition to America's First's investment in the
area, fuel momentum for redevelopment and investment toward I-65.
From concept to completion, large projects - downtown and in our neighborhood commercial
districts - take months or even years to come to fruition. REV Birmingham's team enjoys working
with the City of Birmingham and private investors on these complex projects, addressing
components such as financial incentives (redevelopment agreements and historic tax credits),
infrastructure improvements (sidewalks, lighting) and parking.
The CO.STARTERS Family is Growing!
A couple of weeks ago, 13 entrepreneurs,
representing 11 businesses, became
CO.STARTERS alumni! Congratulations!!
They join more than 100 previous graduates
who, like them, endured months of meetings,
mentoring, and market validation. Small
businesses are the backbone of a strong
economy and these recent graduates help
form the foundation of a thriving and
inclusive Birmingham. CO.STARTERS is an
initiative of Create Birmingham on which we
are proud to partner. Thanks to this cohort's
facilitator, Mickey Millsap, to the numerous
guest speakers, and to the community for
supporting the work of these bold individuals
and their businesses!
The next 10-week CO.STARTERS class kicks off September 11, 2017. If you're ready to start or
improve your business and join a growing network of local entrepreneurs, CLICK HERE to learn
more and submit your application. Looking to learn more about the most recent class as well as other
graduates? CLICK HERE for a complete list of our CO.STARTERS cohorts.
Long-awaited downtown project to open next week
Jul 6, 2017, 9:28am CDT
One of downtown Birmingham's most long-awaited projects
has its opening date.
The Elyton Hotel, which will bring the historic Empire Building
back to life, plans to open July 12, according to AL.com.
The hotel is a 111-room luxury hotel with six suites, a 710-
square-foot gym, and 4,000 square feet of meeting, social and
special event space. The hotel's restaurant, The Yard, and
rooftop bar, Moon Shine, will both open July 19.
As we previously reported, the hotel's name was changed from
"The Empire Hotel" to "The Elyton Hotel" to honor an area town
that predated Birmingham, as well as the Elyton Land Co.,
which helped develop the Magic City in the late 19th century.
The hotel is located in the historic Empire building on the corner
of First Avenue North and 20th Street North. The 1909 building
was purchased by Ascent Hospitality in 2015 after it had sat
vacant since 2009.
BOB FARLEY The Elyton Hotel is opening in the Empire building this month.
We’re Getting Ready
For A Cool
Summer Night…
The BBA Continues
To Post
Some
Awesome Accolades
About Birmingham!
Check out their website at www.birminghambusinessalliance.com
