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Statement from State Representative Juandalynn Givan on the Passage of House Bill 330

BIRMINGHAM, AL – (May 1, 2025)- Today marks a deeply disappointing moment for the City of Birmingham as the Municipal Appointing Authority and for the thousands of ratepayers who rely on the Birmingham Water Works Board. The passage of House Bill 330 represents a blatant overreach — a takeover of an authority that rightfully belongs to the City of Birmingham and its residents. This move is not only absurd, it is dangerous, and its long-term consequences could be devastating in ways we may never fully recover from.

I have fought tooth and nail against this legislation, raising my voice at every opportunity to protect local control and accountability. The Birmingham Water Works Board, while not without its own challenges, should never have been subjected to such a politically motivated power grab.

I would be remiss not to acknowledge that some of the difficulties we face today were self-inflicted. I also cannot help but express my disappointment that more of Birmingham’s leadership did not publicly and forcefully join this fight when it mattered most. Our unity could have made a difference.

Though this was not the outcome we wanted, I remain steadfast in my commitment to the people of Birmingham. I will continue to be a voice for our community and to advocate for transparency, equity, and the local authority that our city deserves.

Rep. Juandalynn Givan

Alabama House of Representatives – District 60

Contact: Rick Jackson
Phone: 334-430-0155
Email: [email protected]
Media Statement from Alabama State Representative Juandalynn Givan
Regarding the appointment of Michael Pickett as Birmingham Police Chief

BIRMINGHAM, AL. (April 1, 2025)- “I have great respect for Mr. Michael Pickett and acknowledge his contributions to the city of Birmingham. However, this appointment is yet another example of the ongoing erosion of our police department. Outside of being recently appointed as deputy chief and interim chief by this current administration, Mr. Pickett has no supervisory experience in law enforcement. While I understand the importance of leadership within our law enforcement, it is crucial that the Birmingham Police Department is not run from within City Hall.

Our police force should be led by individuals selected based on merit, experience, and a commitment to upholding public safety—not political connections or internal maneuvering. This decision should not be made lightly being that nearly 1,000 people have lost their lives to crime in the last seven years. Furthermore, the department is woefully understaffed with less than 400 sworn officers on the force- a city the size of Birmingham should have a bare minimum of 1,300.

This appointment highlights a larger issue: we must implement fair and transparent hiring practices that ensure the best individuals are appointed to critical positions. Public safety is at the core of our community’s well-being, and we must prioritize bringing in leaders who are not only qualified but also trusted by the men and women on the front lines of law enforcement. Therefore, there should be a buy-in from the current police force and the Fraternal Order of Police during a selection process such as this.

We should always ensure that we strengthen the Birmingham Police Department to meet the proper standards and capacity to effectively serve and protect our citizens.

Additionally, increasing morale within the force should be a central focus, ensuring that officers feel supported, valued, and equipped to perform their duties with pride.

In moving forward, we must be intentional about creating an environment where transparency, accountability, and fairness drive our decisions. Together, we can build a police department that reflects the best interests of our city and restores the confidence of the public in the men and women who serve to protect us.”

Juandalynn Givan
Alabama State Representative, District 60

About Juandalynn Givan:

Juandalynn Givan is an Alabama State Representative for District 60, a dedicated advocate for the people of Birmingham, and a candidate for Mayor of Birmingham in 2025. With a passion for justice, community development, and public service, Givan is committed to driving positive change in the Magic City.

Alabama State Representative Juandalynn Givan Calls for Spring Cleaning Initiative in Birmingham as Daylight Savings Time Begins

Birmingham, AL (March 10, 2025) — With the arrival of daylight savings time, Alabama State Representative Juandalynn Givan is urging Birmingham residents to take advantage of the longer days and come together for a citywide spring cleaning effort. Givan, who is also a candidate for mayor of Birmingham, is encouraging neighbors to join forces and clean up their lawns, sidewalks, and surrounding areas to improve the city’s appearance and promote pride in local communities.

“Now that the days are longer, it’s the perfect time to team up with your neighbors and work together to make Birmingham shine,” Givan said. “Spring cleaning isn’t just about cleaning our homes, but about taking pride in our neighborhoods. When we come together, we can make a significant difference in the quality of life in our communities.”

Givan’s call for action coincides with her broader vision for the city as part of her campaign for mayor. Under her “Operation 122” plan, she is committed to cleaning up all 99 neighborhoods and 23 communities within her first 122 days of office. As part of this initiative, Givan aims to address the issue of litter and garbage, noting that increased sanitation services from the city’s department will be a priority.

“We have to take pride in where we live, because Birmingham is truly a beautiful city,” Givan said. “It’s time we hold each other accountable for making sure our communities are appealing and attractive to prospective homebuyers wanting to move into the city.”

In addition to her spring cleaning initiative, Givan also acknowledged the need for improvements in the city’s garbage pickup system. “I understand that garbage pickup from the city’s sanitation department needs to be increased, and I will address this immediately under my administration,” she added.

For more information about Givan’s plans for a cleaner, stronger Birmingham, and to learn more about her candidacy, visit givanformayor.com.

Birmingham, It’s Time!

Contact: Rick Jackson, Campaign Manager for Givan for Mayor

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.givanformayor.com

Alabama House Approves Bill Mandating Law Enforcement Staffing Reports

Montgomery, AL – On February 25th, the Alabama House of Representatives passed House Bill 287, a new law requiring state, city, and county law enforcement agencies to report their number of sworn officers to the Alabama Justice Information Commission (AJIC). The AJIC will compile these reports and make them publicly available in an annual publication shared with the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) and the Alabama Attorney General.

This bill responds to concerns about rising crime rates and the need for accurate data on law enforcement staffing to effectively allocate resources. “In order to provide better assistance to municipalities grappling with high crime rates, we must first understand where each stand in terms of officer staffing,” said Rep. Juandalynn Givan, D-Birmingham, the bill’s sponsor.

Givan, a mayoral candidate for Birmingham, has been a vocal advocate for increased transparency in police department staffing. “We need to know the truth. The public deserves to know the truth,” Givan stated.

Under the provisions of HB287, ALEA will be responsible for posting the annual staffing reports on its official website. The bill also addresses concerns about unreported crime statistics, as certain communities are not submitting their data to ALEA.

A crucial amendment to the bill grants AJIC the power to establish rules for submitting reports or information as required by state or federal law. Agencies that fail to comply with these rules will face a $1,000 administrative fine. If an agency remains non-compliant after 30 days, the fine will be re-imposed, with additional fines applied every 30 days until compliance is achieved.

Agencies that do not submit staffing reports will be ineligible for state grant programs until they meet reporting requirements. Additionally, submitting false or intentionally withheld information will result in misdemeanor charges, with fines ranging from $100 to $10,000 and up to one year in jail.

Rep. Allen Treadaway, R-Morris, a former Birmingham police officer, voiced his support for the bill, highlighting the importance of transparency in law enforcement.

The bill was also amended on the House floor to honor the memory of Sergeant Wytasha Carter, who was tragically killed in the line of duty on January 13, 2019. The law is now named the Sergeant Wytasha Carter Truth and Transparency Act in his honor.

Contact: Rick Jackson, Campaign Manager for Givan For Mayor 2025

Email: [email protected]

STATEMENT FROM JUANDALYNN GIVAN ON THE FIGHT AGAINST ICE & THE TRUMP ADMINISTRATION

Birmingham is a city built on resilience, diversity, and the unwavering belief that everyone deserves a fair shot at the American dream. I stand in full support of our immigrant community and strongly condemn the cruel and unjust actions of the Trump Administration, which have targeted Dreamers and hardworking migrant families.
As Mayor, I will take immediate action to  protect Dreamers, migrants, and all immigrants who call Birmingham home. My administration will:

✅ Rescind the existing cooperation agreement between the Birmingham Police Department and ICE.  No Birmingham officer should be used as an extension of federal immigration enforcement. Our police should focus on protecting and serving our residents—not tearing families apart.

✅ Establish Birmingham as a true welcoming city. I will work to create local policies that safeguard immigrant communities, ensuring they have access to legal support, healthcare, and educational opportunities without fear of deportation.

✅ Invest in immigrant-owned businesses. Our immigrant community is an essential part of Birmingham’s economy, and I will push for resources and grants to help their businesses thrive.

✅ Stand up for Dreamers. Every child, regardless of immigration status, deserves the opportunity to succeed. I will work to expand protections and support systems for young immigrants pursuing education and careers in our city.

Birmingham must be a city that uplifts and protects every single person—regardless of where they were born. Under my leadership, we will fight back against harmful federal policies and build a city where ALL people feel safe, valued, and empowered to thrive.

Juandalynn Givan’s Crime Reduction Report: A Comprehensive Plan for Change

Addressing violent crime and rebuilding trust in public safety are top priorities for my campaign. The Birmingham Crime Commission’s report highlights several innovative and community-centered strategies, but it also brings to light a stark reality: Birmingham currently has more than 230 sworn officer vacancies in the Police Department.
The Commission acknowledged studying successful crime-reduction strategies in other cities, but what they failed to mention is how those cities had the necessary number of officers to fully execute these strategies. Without adequately staffing our department, these plans are little more than ideas on paper. As mayor, I will prioritize filling these vacancies through competitive pay, benefits, and incentives to attract and retain the top-tier talent we desperately need.

In addition, my administration will establish a Community Assistance and Response Engagement (CARE) Unit within the Birmingham Police Department, modeled after Atlanta’s successful initiative. This unit will focus on addressing non-violent and mental health-related emergencies, allowing social workers and mental health professionals to take the lead. By doing so, patrol officers can focus on addressing violent crimes, and the community can build stronger trust and collaboration with law enforcement.

The “Control, Combat, and Conquer” approach will be a cornerstone of our strategy to address crime in Birmingham:

1. Control: This phase focuses on managing and containing crime through visible policing and surveillance. Maintaining order and ensuring that criminal activities are under control require a strong law enforcement presence and increased measures.
2. Combat: During this phase, the focus is on actively disrupting criminal operations and dismantling networks involved in illicit activities. Through intelligence-led policing and targeted interventions, we will strike at the heart of violent crime.
3. Conquer: The final stage seeks long-term solutions by addressing the root causes of crime, such as social inequality, poverty, and lack of opportunity. This involves investing in rehabilitation programs, community engagement, and preventive measures to reduce recidivism and create pathways to success.

My administration will also focus on holistic strategies to address systemic drivers of crime. By expanding mentorship programs, after-school initiatives, and job training, and by revitalizing our neighborhoods, we can build a stronger foundation for a safer Birmingham. Economic empowerment, education, and mental health resources will play pivotal roles in preventing crime before it starts.

The time for bold leadership is now. Together, we can implement these innovative, community-centered solutions while rebuilding our police force to ensure every Birmingham resident feels secure and supported. By combining immediate action with long-term strategies, we will create a safer, stronger city.

Birmingham, It’s Time!

A Call for Unity and Action Following Birmingham’s First Homicide of the Year

BIRMINGHAM, AL – January 2, 2025 – It is with profound sadness that we acknowledge the tragic loss of a pizza delivery driver who was senselessly robbed and killed in Birmingham, marking the first homicide of the year. This heartbreaking incident is a stark reminder of the urgent need to address the root causes of violence in our community and to ensure that no one fears for their safety while earning an honest living.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the victim’s family, friends, and colleagues during this unimaginably difficult time. This tragedy must galvanize us as a city to prioritize safety and invest in resources that foster opportunities, reduce crime, and build stronger communities. If elected, I will work tirelessly to bring about policies that create safer neighborhoods, support law enforcement, and address the systemic issues that lead to violence.

To honor the victim and prevent future tragedies, let us come together as one Birmingham to demand accountability, justice, and a renewed commitment to the well-being of every resident.

Alabama State Representative Juandalynn Givan Announces Run for Mayor of Birmingham in 2025

BIRMINGHAM, AL – January 1, 2025 – Alabama State Representative Juandalynn Givan, a fierce advocate for her community and dedicated public servant, officially announces her candidacy for Mayor of Birmingham in the upcoming 2025 mayoral race. In a heartfelt message to the people of Birmingham, Givan emphasized that the challenges of 2024, a year marked by a record-breaking number of homicides and increasing crime, demand urgent and transformative leadership.

“2024 was not a year that made many of us proud here in the Magic City,” Givan said. “In fact, it was the deadliest year since 1933 for the City of Birmingham. That year, much like this one, was marked by a climate of fear, segregation, and economic hardship. I refuse to let that be our Birmingham today. It’s time for change. It’s time for us to rise and reclaim our city.”

As she kicks off her campaign for mayor, Givan outlines her vision for a brighter, safer, and more prosperous future for Birmingham with her bold platform built on three key priorities: People, Protection, and Progress.

“My New Year’s Resolution includes a platform that focuses on the needs of our people, ensures the protection of our communities, and drives sustainable progress for the Magic City,” Givan said. “It’s time to address our challenges head-on and implement solutions that will move us forward. Birmingham, it’s time.”

Key components of Givan’s platform include:

• Taking it to the Streets: A comprehensive initiative aimed at improving Birmingham’s infrastructure by resurfacing and repairing roadways, with immediate attention given to potholes across the city.
• Operation 122: A focused plan to clean up Birmingham’s 99 neighborhoods and 23 communities within the first 122 days of Givan’s administration. This initiative will include increased garbage pickup and beautification projects to restore pride in every part of the city.
• Friends in Transition: A program to address the growing homelessness crisis in Birmingham. Through this effort, Givan will work to eliminate homeless tent communities and provide sustainable housing solutions for those affected.
• Transportation and Micro-Transit Expansion: A focus on improving public transit options and creating more accessible routes to support Birmingham’s population and workforce.
• Back to Business: A drive to revitalize Birmingham’s downtown core by attracting retail businesses, boosting local commerce, and rejuvenating the city’s business landscape.
• Youth and Crime Prevention: A commitment to enhancing community centers, recreational spaces, and arts programs for youth, while working closely with local businesses to provide trade skills and job opportunities.
• Police Recruitment and Community Safety: A promise to bolster police recruitment efforts and improve mental health resources for law enforcement officers. Givan will also work to revitalize neighborhood watch programs and expand Explorer Programs to engage young people in law enforcement.

“Our city is facing serious challenges, but we can’t afford to wait any longer to address them,” Givan stated. “We must do something now, because our lives depend on it. Birmingham deserves leadership that is bold, compassionate, and effective. I am ready to lead.”

Givan, who has represented District 60 in the Alabama House of Representatives since 2010, has a track record of advocating for her constituents, advancing policies to improve education, healthcare, and criminal justice reform. As mayor, she will leverage her experience and deep understanding of Birmingham’s needs to guide the city toward a brighter future.

“This city belongs to all of us, and together, we can build the Birmingham we’ve always dreamed of—a city where safety, opportunity, and progress are within everyone’s reach,” Givan concluded. “Birmingham, it’s time!”

For more information on Juandalynn Givan’s mayoral campaign, please visit  GivanforMayor.com

About Juandalynn Givan:

Juandalynn Givan is an Alabama State Representative for District 60, a dedicated advocate for the people of Birmingham, and a candidate for Mayor of Birmingham in 2025. With a passion for justice, community development, and public service, Givan is committed to driving positive change in the Magic City.