Dr. Michael Guo-Brennan: Turning friends into enemies
I am writing out of concern about 2023 House Bill 379 (HB379), the Alabama Property Protection Act, which recently passed the Alabama House and is now headed to the Senate for consideration. This act would prohibit Chinese citizens, government, or entities from acquiring real property in Alabama. While I understand the concerns of the legislature, and our national security needs to be of the utmost importance, this bill, as it currently reads, does not protect our national security, is an affront to civil and human rights, violates the Fair Housing Act of 1968, and promotes racism, discrimination, and hate against Asians. By making it illegal for “any individual who is a citizen of China” (line 48) to purchase real property, the state of Alabama is targeting specific individuals based solely on national origin, a clear violation of the 1968 Fair Housing Act. The state has come far in the decades since the civil rights movement. To reverse course and target individuals based exclusively on national origin is backward and harms the state’s reputation. This bill is unlike other laws passed in Florida, Texas, and elsewhere that place restrictions on property ownership. Those laws are generally limited to farmland or land near military bases, and most are not exclusively targeting one nationality. Passage of this bill by the Senate and approval by Governor Kay Ivey will certainly lead to prolonged legal challenges that will cost the state millions of dollars, and the state will very likely lose. It will come out of these challenges with a severely tarnished reputation and may face a severe economic backlash by global investors such as Mercedes Benz, Hyundai, Toyota, or others seeking to invest in the state or expand current operations. The action by the House has already generated new political engagement. Since its passage in the House, a coalition of individuals and other interest groups have organized through social media to stop this racist legislation, including the Birmingham Chinese Association, the Hengcheng Chinese Association based in Huntsville, The United Chinese Alliance based in Washington, DC., as well as groups at several Alabama universities. One local organization behind this coalition is the Central Alabama Association of Chinese (CAAC). The organization is an active member of the community, supporting Chinese Americans and other Asian newcomers seeking to build a better life in Alabama. This law would be a slap in the face of everyone that is a part of the CAAC and other coalition members, along with their friends and associates. It has the potential to turn friends into enemies, thus making the law itself a threat to national security. Dr. Michael Guo-Brennan is an Associate Professor in the Department of Political Science at Troy University. He also serves as an adjunct professor in the Faculty of Education at the University of Prince Edward Island.
Republican governors ask Biden administration to rescind Title IX guidance
Twenty-five of the nation’s 26 Republican governors have asked the Biden administration to shelve its intent to expand Title IX protections to transgender athletes. The letter, led by the signature of Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves, says the U.S. Department of Education’s proposed regulation should be withdrawn pending litigation that could be addressed by the U.S. Supreme Court. “The Department’s proposed regulation would attempt to coerce compliance with an uncertain, fluid, and completely subjective standard that is based on a highly politicized gender ideology,” the letter reads. The letter comes as the public comment period ends Monday on a proposed revision to Title IX that would ban state and local governments from prohibiting transgender students from participating on sports teams aligned with their gender identity. Title IX was created to increase opportunities for female athletes. Federal funds can be withheld from those found to be in violation. The law, which was passed in 1972, prohibits discrimination based on sex for school districts, universities, museums, and other educational institutions that receive federal funds. “Compelling a subjective, athlete-by-athlete analysis controlled by a student’s self-identified ‘gender identity’ enforced under threat of Department retribution affords no clarity,” the letter reads. “It does the opposite. This ‘fluid’ subjective standard ensures chaos and confusion in schools and will no doubt result in protracted and disruptive litigation.” Twenty-one states prohibit transgender students from participating on sports teams that do not align with their biological sex at birth, according to the Movement Advancement Project that tracks state policies. The letter was signed by Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey, Alaska Gov. Mike Dunleavy, Arkansas Gov. Sarah Sanders, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp, Idaho Gov. Brad Little, Indiana Gov. Eric Holcomb, Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds, Missouri Gov. Mike Parson, Montana Gov. Greg Gianforte, Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen, Nevada Gov. Joe Lombardo, New Hampshire Gov. Chris Sununu, North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum, Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine, Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt, South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster, South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem, Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee, Texas Gov. Greg Abbott, Utah Gov. Spencer Cox, Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin, West Virginia Gov. Jim Justice, and Wyoming Gov. Mark Gordon. The signature of Vermont Republican Gov. Phil Scott is not on the letter. Republished with the permission of The Center Square.
Today is Peace Officer Memorial Day
Monday is Peace Officers Memorial Day. Public officials and citizens across the country are taking time out of their day to remember the law enforcement officers who have given their lives to protect our communities from crime and violence. This is also National Police Week. Alabama Governor Kay Ivey said on Twitter, “Flags are flying at half-staff for Peace Officers Memorial Day — honoring those who gave their lives in the line of duty. Law enforcement risks their own safety to protect us from harm’s way every day. Alabama will always respect those who wear the uniform.” Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall said on Twitter, “Alabama has lost far too many officers in the line of duty. On this Peace Officers Memorial Day, I am grateful for their selfless dedication to our communities. Please join me in praying for the families and loved ones of officers lost. #backtheblue.” U.S. Senator Katie Britt said on Facebook, “Today, we honor the courageous law enforcement officers who made the ultimate sacrifice protecting and serving their fellow Americans. Let us always remember and be grateful for their valor in the line of duty.” President Joe Biden issued a proclamation honoring law enforcement this week. “For generations, courageous men and women of our Nation’s law enforcement community have dedicated their lives to protecting us in big cities, small towns, and suburban neighborhoods across America,” said Biden. “Each morning, police officers pin on their shield and walk out the door to go to work, hoping they will come home safely. Last year, a record number of law enforcement officers died in the line of duty. On Peace Officers Memorial Day and during Police Week, we express our gratitude for these selfless public servants who put themselves in harm’s way to keep us safe and honor those who lost their lives in the line of duty.” “During Police Week, let us demonstrate our appreciation for the unsung heroes who nobly wear the badge and put their lives at risk to protect people each and every day,” President Biden wrote. “Let us honor the brave officers whose bright futures were cut short in the line of duty. Let us come together to help police be the partners and protectors our communities, and our Nation need for a safer, more just America.” Eight Alabama Law Enforcement Officers were killed in the line of duty in 2022. May 15 has been recognized as National Peace Officers Memorial Day since 1962. To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email brandonmreporter@gmail.com.
Lawmakers approve bill that would enable construction of new Alabama Statehouse
Lawmakers on Thursday gave final approval to legislation that could lead to the construction of a new Alabama Statehouse. The bill gives the Legislative Council, a 20-member panel that consists of legislative leaders and selected members, the authority to contract with the Retirement Systems of Alabama, or another entity, for the construction and maintenance of a new Alabama Statehouse. State senators voted 34-0 to accept changes to the legislation made by the House of Representatives. The bill now goes to Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey for her signature. House Speaker Nathaniel Ledbetter said the current Statehouse, originally built in the 1960s to house the state highway department, has ongoing maintenance problems with accommodating spectators in crowded committee rooms. “I think the people of Alabama need to be represented better than this building. I really do. I’ve been to statehouses in different parts of the country, and they are a representation of the people. They want to welcome people into them,” Ledbetter said. “We can’t accommodate the public.” Ledbetter said he believed a decision would be made fairly quickly but declined to give a more precise estimate. He said council members will weigh the yearly cost of maintenance against the cost of leasing a new building. From the mid-1800s to 1985, Alabama lawmakers met at the Alabama Capitol, which also houses the governor’s office. Lawmakers in 1985 moved into the current building as a temporary meeting place when the Capitol was undergoing renovations. Lawmakers never moved back, and a number of renovations have been made through the years. Alabama lawmakers in 2020 briefly discussed the possibility of using $200 million of federal pandemic relief funds to build a new statehouse, but the idea drew immediate backlash. Republished with the permission of The Associated Press.
Gov. Kay Ivey establishes the Alabama Resilience Council by executive order
Governor Kay Ivey on Friday signed Executive Order 736, establishing the Alabama Resilience Council. Ivey said in a press release that this action is a key part of the Administration’s plan to make Alabama the most resilient state in the nation by protecting the lives, property, and economic well-being of Alabamians against possible hazards, both natural and man-made. “Protecting the well-being of our people, both physically and financially, should be a top priority shared by leaders at all levels of government,” said Gov. Ivey. “Alabama is growing like never before, and it’s imperative we take necessary steps today to preserve our historic progress for tomorrow. By proactively reimagining our approach to events with harmful effects on Alabamians before they occur, we can save lives, protect jobs and ensure our state’s future remains bright.” The Alabama Resilience Council will work with local, state, federal and private partners to help communities build stronger, live safer and recover quicker. The work of the Council will be aimed at better preparing Alabama’s communities to withstand events that result in harmful societal impacts. Ivey says that by including stakeholders with different perspectives from the public and private sectors, the Council aims to create a holistic approach to mitigation and resilience efforts. Alabama Emergency Management Agency Director Jeff Smitherman and Alabama Department of Insurance Commissioner Mark Fowler will serve as co-chairs for the Council. “This council presents a great opportunity to bring stakeholders together to explore partnerships and create synergy in our efforts in our state,” said Smitherman. “It creates a platform to include key players that can significantly increase the strength and resilience of Alabama at all levels.” “I want to thank Governor Ivey for her leadership and vision in creating this important Council. We believe Alabama will set the national standard for preparedness and resilience,” said Commissioner Fowler. “The Alabama Resilience Council will be a whole-of-government response, with the input of private industry, aimed at making that a reality.” The heads of the following agencies will be permanent members of the Council: · The Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries · The Alabama Department of Commerce · The Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources · The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs · The Alabama Department of Environmental Management · The Alabama Department of Public Health · The Alabama Department of Transportation · The Alabama Forestry Commission · The Alabama Geological Survey · The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency · The Alabama National Guard · The Alabama Office of Information Technology Other local, state, federal and private partners invited to appoint a representative to the Council include: · The Alabama Association of Regional Councils · The Alabama Indian Affairs Commission · The Alabama League of Municipalities · The Alabama Soil and Water Conservation Committee · The Association of County Commissions of Alabama · The Business Council of Alabama · The Economic Development Administration · The Energy Institute of Alabama · The Federal Emergency Management Agency · Manufacture Alabama · The National Federation of Independent Business · The Small Business Administration · The United States Army Corps of Engineers · The United States Forest Service · The University of Alabama Center for Risk and Insurance Research · The National Weather Service Lars Powell is the director of the University of Alabama Center for Insurance Information and Research. “I am excited to be a part of this effort to maximize the physical and economic resilience of Alabama,” said Powell. “Governor Ivey has always shown the safety and security of Alabamians to be her top priority, and the creation of the Alabama Resilience Council is further evidence of that commitment. Significant opportunities exist to increase the resilience of Alabama, and I am honored by the confidence Governor Ivey shows in the Center to contribute its talents in assessing disaster risk-reduction alternatives.” Gov. Ivey has led the state since 2017. Over the last 40 years, more than 1,100 Alabamians have been killed in natural disasters. To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email brandonmreporter@gmail.com.
Alabama Legislature advances legislation requiring that American iron be used in public works projects
Last week, the Alabama State Legislature passed legislation requiring that American iron be used in all Alabama public works projects. House Bill 157 (HB157) is sponsored by State Representative David Faulkner. According to the synopsis, “Under existing law, when a public works contract requires the use of steel, the contractor performing the contract is required to use steel produced within the United States. This bill would provide that when a public works contract requires the use of iron, the contractor performing the contract would be required to use iron produced within the United States.” The Senate Fiscal Responsibility and Economic Development Committee voted unanimously to give the bill a favorable report Wednesday. Sen. Garlan Gudger chairs the committee. Rep. Faulkner told the Committee that HB157 requires that for public works projects. “You use American iron and steel. Federal law is already that way,” Faulkner said. Sen. Josh Carnley asked, “Are we putting anybody at a disadvantage?” “No, we are not,” Faulkner answered. “We have several iron manufacturers in Alabama.” Faulkner explained that Alabama law already requires the use of American steel. This legislation simply adds iron to it so that state law matches federal law. HB157 passed the Senate on a 32 to 0 vote. It has already passed in the House, so it now goes to Governor Kay Ivey for her consideration. As of Tuesday, 765 bills have been introduced in this legislative session. Tuesday was Day 19 of the 2023 Alabama Regular Legislative Session. To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email brandonmreporter@gmail.com.
Gov. Kay Ivey awards six Alabama companies with Trade Excellence
On Wednesday, Alabama Governor Kay Ivey hosted the Governor’s Trade Excellence Awards Ceremony. During the event, Governor Ivey signed a proclamation proclaiming May as World Trade Month. This year’s ceremony recognized six of Alabama’s top international trade exporters and finest trade companies, as well as the 2023 Trade Advocate of the Year. “I recognized @TuskegeeUniv and six Alabama companies for their trade success in the global market,” Gov. Ivey said on Twitter. “Their economic activities ranged from automotive manufacturing to food production.” The six exporters honored in the Governor’s Trade Excellence Awards were: · Adah International LLC · Bud’s Best Cookies · Canfor Southern Pine · Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama · ICONN Orthopedics · Pinnacle Solutions, Inc. “Their work has sparked record-breaking economic growth across the state,” Ivey stated. “Thanks to tremendous levels of innovation, craftsmanship, and ingenuity, Alabama’s talented workers turn out products that are in demand around the world,” Governor Ivey said. “These products really elevate the ‘Made in Alabama’ brand and transmit the message internationally that top-quality goods come from our state.” Governor Ivey presented Tuskegee University with a 2023 Governor’s Trade Excellence Award for extraordinary results in international initiatives that include partnerships with dozens of overseas universities and hosting students from more than 20 countries in recent years. Economic developer Dr. Nicole Jones told Alabama Today, “Alabama has a plethora of international trade partners that exemplify the Made in Alabama brand. The Governor’s Trade Excellence Awards gives outstanding organizations well-deserved recognition for their contributions to our state’s success in global markets. Considering the myriad of global disruption that has dominated worldwide news in recent years, it is impressive that Alabama maintained $25.5 billion in exports in 2023. Other countries have demonstrated a continued need for made-in-Alabama goods, especially in the industries of transportation, aerospace, chemicals, minerals, and paper products.” Greg Canfield is the Secretary of the Alabama Department of Commerce. “Exporting is a driving force in Alabama’s economy, providing benefits here at home that include new jobs and investments,” Sec. Canfield said. “The vision of our companies to be international leaders in their respective fields is most impressive, and we look forward to seeing their continued success in overseas markets.” Christina Stimpson is the Director of Commerce’s Office of International Trade. “We are proud to have worked with all the companies represented today and to have assisted them in identifying international opportunities,” Stimpson said. “The communities where they are located are fortunate to have them because, through exporting, they’re diversifying the economy, growing their production, and creating and sustaining jobs.” Alabama exports surged to a record $25.5 billion in 2022. The Department of Commerce’s Office of International Trade offers resources to assist Alabama companies enter new overseas markets. The Office uses its frequent trade and business development missions, training, foreign-market information, and international contacts to further Alabama companies’ international presence. “Economic development is a continuous process of cultivating relationships, investing in human capital, and working with communities to find their hidden talent within,” Jones explained. “Governor Ivey, the Alabama Department of Commerce, and leaders within the public and private sector work every day to make Alabama a place where a myriad of industries can grow and prosper.” To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email brandonmreporter@gmail.com.
Jimmy Rane: In the “game” of economic development, we must prioritize industrial site development in order to win
Economic development, job creation, and business recruitment are top priorities for elected officials, community leaders, and business leaders like myself who want to see our communities grow and economies thrive. Given the huge importance of a growing – or conversely, a shrinking – economy, it might sound strange to think of economic development as a “game,” but in many ways, it is. Just like the Southeastern Conference in collegiate sports, the Southeastern United States is also a league of rival teams; in this case, states competing against each other to win on major economic development opportunities. The way to win in this “game” of economic development is to attract industry to our state and to our communities. When I started YellaWood, my hometown of Abbeville was struggling. But as we continued to build out our operations and expand our manufacturing base, everything changed. Instead of being a community that was crumbling and where folks were leaving because of a lack of opportunities to be successful, Abbeville became a place that folks were moving to because of the new opportunities to have good jobs and provide for their families. With the growth of industry comes the jobs that communities depend on to be successful, as well as an increased tax base that can be leveraged to invest back into education, law enforcement, infrastructure, and countless other priorities that have a direct impact on people’s lives. Let’s take our state’s favorite sport, football, as an example – an area where we are certainly a national leader. What does a football team need to be successful? You need a good head coach, a quarterback and running back defended by a powerful offensive line, wide receivers who can make plays, and a defense that can stop opponents’ run-and-pass attacks and prevent opposing offenses from scoring points. Those are a lot of different pieces that all have to fit together to create a winning team. It is similar with states who are competing to win in the realm of economic development. Fortunately for our state, we have many of these pieces already in place. We have a strong, skilled workforce. We have a competitive, low-tax, low-regulation business environment. And thanks to a series of economic development incentives bills that were recently passed by our legislature and signed by my friend Governor Kay Ivey, we have a reinvigorated tool chest to make our state more appealing. But one area where our state, unfortunately, needs improvement is in our industrial sites. Just like how a coach looks for a good quarterback, linemen, and defensive backs, companies deciding where they would like to establish and expand their operations look for these economic assets. Quality industrial sites in the realm of economic development are just as important as a quarterback is in football. For companies to choose to invest in Alabama, they need access to shovel-ready industrial sites to create their manufacturing bases and be successful. Many of Alabama’s industrial sites simply do not have the infrastructure and resources that companies need, which makes it difficult for our state’s economic developers to win in their economic development efforts. This problem is exacerbated as our neighboring states are making ambitious investments into their industrial sites and are seeing great progress. If Alabama does not invest in its industrial sites now, we run the risk of falling behind the rest of the pack and losing out on important economic opportunities for our state’s future. We, as a state, have the opportunity to fix this problem. Thanks to the Site Evaluation and Economic Development Strategy (SEEDS) Act that was signed into law this Spring, we have an opportunity to make our state the gold standard for companies looking to invest. If the SEEDS Act is fully funded, our state will have the ability to accelerate and expand our site preparation process, as well as Alabama’s inventory of available sites. Other states are making these investments. Not doing so would make about as much sense as a football team refusing to practice. If Alabama makes the investments now into our state’s critical industrial sites, we can win the game of economic development and beat Georgia, Tennessee, and other states when it comes to creating jobs and developing an economy for the future. Let’s put our state in a position to win and develop the industrial sites needed to compete. Jimmy Rane is the president and CEO at Great Southern Wood Preserving.
Alabama’s year to date revenues increased slightly in March
According to data from the Alabama Department of Revenue, tax revenue for the year to date was up 0.54% compared to the same period last year. Several tax cut bills signed into law last year by Gov. Kay Ivey are the reason April’s tax revenues were down 13.9% compared with April 2022, shrinking from $1.86 billion to $1.58 billion. One of the biggest increases were use tax, which increased by nearly 10% from $332 million in year to date 2022 to $365 million in 2023. Use tax revenues for April increased from $53.2 million in 2022 to $54.8 million. The use tax is levied on out-of-state sales, mostly from online retailers. Corporate income tax revenues were up by 5.27%, growing from $601 million in 2022 to $632 million. They increased from April 2022 ($273 million) by 6.46% this April ($293 million). Sales tax revenues were up slightly by 1.41%, growing from $285 million in April 2022 to $289 million this April. The state’s personal income tax revenues were down 37.5% from April 2022, shrinking from $776 million last year to $485 million this April. Among the tax relief measures Ivey signed in 2022 was House Bill 162, which exempted the first $6,000 of taxable retirement income for taxpayers ages 65 or older that went into effect on Jan. 1. She also signed a pair of bills that increased the standard deduction for married taxpayers filing jointly by $1,000 and $500 for single/head of household filers. The gross income qualifying threshold for the $1,000 dependent was increased from $20,000 to $50,000. Download PDF Republished with the permission of The Center Square.
Gov. Kay Ivey signs legislation allowing military servicemembers to have liability insurance from other states
On Monday, Alabama Governor Kay Ivey signed House Bill 210. The legislation further solidifies Alabama’s goal to be the most military-friendly state in the nation. The bill allows military personnel who transfer out of Alabama for training or service in other states to have some leeway from Alabama’s Mandatory Liability Insurance (MLI) law. As long as service members have credible coverage similar to that required by the state, they can keep their vehicle registration current without being in violation of Alabama law. SB210 received strong support in the Legislature. “Alabama has a proud history of supporting the men and women who protect our country, and as governor, I have actively sought ways to make our state even more friendly to our active servicemen, veterans, and their families,” said Governor Ivey. “Providing a Mandatory Liability Insurance exception for Alabamians serving outside the state is a common-sense reform that allows our men and women in uniform to hold on to more of their hard-earned money. I will always stand up for those who serve our country and am proud to sign this bill into law.” State Representative Rhett Marques sponsored the bill in the Alabama House of Representatives. Senator Josh Carnley carried the Senate version of the bill. “With the passage of HB 210, we continue to make Alabama the most military-friendly state in the country,” said Rep. Marques. “It is our standard to make everyday life easier for our military families. I’m proud to work with Governor Ivey and my legislative colleagues on this important initiative aimed at giving back to those who sacrifice so much.” Under current law, all motor vehicles registered in this state must continually maintain an active Alabama minimum motor vehicle liability insurance policy. Previously, Alabama military residents temporarily stationed outside of Alabama were required to maintain an Alabama MLI policy, in addition to an MLI policy in the state of their temporary duty station. This resulted in these military members then having to either choose specific policies that satisfied both Alabama and the other jurisdiction’s laws, carry two policies on the same vehicle, or move the vehicle registration from Alabama – all of which caused unnecessary burdens on Alabama military residents. “It was an honor to be able to carry legislation that helps those who sacrifice every day for Alabama,” said Sen. Carnley. “Governor Ivey has proven she wants Alabama to be known as the most pro-military state in the country. We are thankful to the men and women who serve and will continue to work to show them we appreciate their service.” Tuesday will be day 19 of the 2023 Alabama Regular Legislative Session. To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email brandonmreporter@gmail.com.
Vertex Energy has ribbon cutting on new renewable diesel facility
Gov. Kay Ivey was on hand for the ribbon-cutting ceremony of Vertex Energy’s first renewable diesel facility. Vertex Energy is one of the largest processors of used motor oil in the U.S. Gulf Coast. This $115 million expansion project will be Alabama’s first renewable diesel facility. Gov. Ivey said on Twitter, “I welcomed VertexEnergyInc’s Renewable Diesel Unit to Alabama today! This facility is a major milestone for our state, providing 200+ high-paying jobs, work for our farmers and low-carbon fuel products. Truly, Vertex’s Alabama-presence will be felt across the nation.” The project will create over 200 new jobs in Mobile County. The Governor was joined by Vertex Founder and President Ben Cowart, Refinery General Manager Wes Mock, Vertex Site Project Manager Daniel Hill, County Commissioner Merceria Ludgood, and Mobile Chamber President and CEO Bradley Byrne. Vertex Energy, Inc. is a leading specialty refiner and marketer of high-quality refined products. “By sourcing feedstock locally within our own state, Vertex fosters economic growth opportunities from farm-to-facility and offers low-carbon fuel products that contribute to a cleaner environment, not only here in our beautiful Alabama, but across the nations where these products are sold,” Ivey said. In 2022, Vertex acquired a conventional fuels refinery from Shell PLC The company immediately launched a $115 million conversion project. The primary aim of this project was to convert a standalone unit within the refinery to facilitate the production of renewable diesel, a cleaner and more sustainable alternative to petroleum diesel fuel. Economic developer Dr. Nicole Jones told Alabama Today, “Vertex is an energy transition company focused on the production and distribution of conventional as well as alternative fuels. Vertex’s large refinery in Mobile County positioned the company as a leading supplier of fuels in the Gulf Coast region. As one of the largest processors of used motor oil in the United States, Vertex is a champion of sustainability and cutting-edge alternative energy. The 200 jobs created as a result of their latest expansion is a win for Saraland, Mobile County, and our entire state.“ The newly converted renewable diesel unit is specifically designed to produce renewable diesel fuel, which can be seamlessly integrated as a direct replacement for traditional petroleum diesel. At present, soybean oil serves as the primary feedstock for the production process. However, the facility has been engineered to accommodate the use of other organic waste oils in the future. Soybeans are trading currently at $14.72 a bushel. Soybeans are a primary ingredient in livestock feeds as well as in human feedstuffs – much of it in soybean oil. The company said that the plant provides a new market for Alabama’s soybean farmers. The collaboration between Vertex and these suppliers is expected to help strengthen the local agricultural sector and help foster a stable transition to renewable energy sources. Cowart declared, “We’re not just cutting ribbons; we’re cutting emissions. We’re also carving a new path for this site, this city, and the Great State of Alabama. The opportunity to bring this kind of innovation to my hometown and the state of Alabama is incredibly meaningful. I believe this is just the beginning, as we progress on our commitment to a cleaner environment by creating a sustainable growth path for the energy transition.” Vertex worked closely with local engineering firms and other contractors. The project resulted in an estimated $4 million in local workforce spending and the support of 600 construction jobs, as the team achieved over 450,000 work hours without any OSHA reportable incidents. Vertex’s safety incentive program, which allows Vertex employees and contractors to allocate dollars to Make-A-Wish Alabama for every OSHA injury-free workday completed during the turnaround, reached its target of 12 wishes granted for a total of $120,000. Houston-based Vertex Energy, Inc. (NASDAQ: VTNR), is an energy transition company focused on the production and distribution of conventional and alternative fuels. The refinery in Mobile has an operable refining capacity of 75,000 barrels per day and more than 3.2 million barrels of product storage, positioning it as a leading supplier of fuels in the region. To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email brandonmreporter@gmail.com.
Personnel Update: Steve Ammons to become CEO of BBA
The Birmingham Business Alliance on Friday named Jefferson County Commissioner Steve Ammons as its new CEO of the Birmingham Business Alliance (BBA). Ammons will lead the Birmingham-Hoover metro area’s primary economic development agency. The goal of the BBA is to lead collaboratively between BBA and its community partners across dozens of cities and towns in the seven-county region. Greg Curran is the current chairman of the Board at the BBA. He is also the chairman of the Firm at Maynard Nexsen. “When we began the process of identifying a new CEO, the goal was to identify a successful candidate who understands the unique fabric of Birmingham community and who would also bring immediate credibility and confidence to the role, ” said Chairman Curran. “Steve Ammons has shown great leadership to the BBA over the years, and we are all energized by his thoughtful vision for the organization’s future.” Ammons currently serves as the Jefferson County Commissioner for District 5. He also serves as the chairman of the County’s Economic Development Committee and on the Information Technology Committee. “I am excited to expand my service to the seven-county Greater Birmingham Region with the BBA,” said Ammons. “Birmingham has more opportunities in front of us than ever before. I look forward to working closely with the team, our investors, and our partners in the community to advance economic growth and regional cooperation together.” Joe Hampton is the incoming 2024 BBA Board Chairman. He is also the President of Spire Alabama. “Steve Ammons has demonstrated experience in understanding what it takes to support businesses of all sizes,” said incoming Chairman Hampton. “He is a proven relationship-builder whose commitment to collaboration will set the organization up for long-term success.” The search process was led by Greg Curran and included Joe Hampton and other key members of BBA’s Board of Directors and advisors. Alesia Jones, formerly the Chief HR Officer for the University of Alabama at Birmingham, was the HR Consultant that facilitated the search process. “The board expresses deep gratitude to BBA’s current executive leadership team for their hard work and dedication over the past year,” said Curran. “This amazing team will work directly with the CEO as he defines the next chapter for the BBA.” Ammon is a veteran of the U.S. Navy. Before becoming a county commissioner, he served two terms on the Vestavia Hills City Council. Ammons has owned and operated a Birmingham-based employment background screening services company for many years. While on the County Commission, he was the primary liaison to the BBA, the Alabama Department of Commerce, the Economic Development Partnership of Alabama, the Jefferson County Economic and Industrial Development Authority, and other economic development partners in Jefferson County and beyond. Most notably, he managed the recruitment of The J.M. Smucker Company. Smucker’s $1.2 billion capital investment, the largest in Jefferson County history. He will begin his new role on May 30. Alabama Governor Kay Ivey will call a special election to fill the vacancy on the county commission. There presently is a 3 Republican – 2 Democrat split on the Jefferson County Commission, with Ammons being the third Republican. To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email brandonmreporter@gmail.com.
