Alabama Sheriff’s offices to receive grants to make up for lost pistol permit funds
Gov. Kay Ivey on Monday announced the start of the Sheriffs’ grants for all of Alabama’s 67 counties. The sheriff’s departments in each of the state’s 67 counties will be receiving funds quarterly beginning in the first quarter of 2023. The amount of funds each county receives will be based on the money that those departments collected from pistol permit fees in 2022. “A couple of core tenants of the Ivey Administration is that we back the blue in the strongest way possible and that we support upholding our citizens’ Second Amendment rights,” Gov. Ivey said. “As we have amended Alabama law to help our gun owners, we also worked to ensure our sheriffs received their critical funds, and I am proud that these grants will do that,” said Governor Ivey. “The Sheriffs’ Grants will provide them with funding for training, equipment, and other needs not provided by county commissions in their annual appropriations. We are proud to support the vital work our sheriffs’ departments do on a daily basis.” Ivey wrote on Twitter, “I just announced the start of the Sheriffs’ Grants for all 67 counties to ensure they receive these critical funds. Just as we support upholding Alabamians’ Second Amendment rights, we will always back the blue and are proud to do so.” To be eligible for grants under the Local Government Pistol Permit Revenue Loss Fund, Sheriffs need to be able to show a loss of pistol permit funds in 2023 from comparable 2022 figures. This decrease in funding is due to the passage of permitless carry by the legislature last year. All adult Alabamians, who have not lost their gun rights, no longer have to purchase a concealed carry permit (also called a pistol permit) to carry their handguns with them concealed on their person, in a purse or briefcase, or their vehicles. The Alabama Sheriffs Association had repeatedly warned state legislators that if permitless carry passed, it would mean a disastrous loss of revenue for Alabama’s sheriffs. Permitless carry was passed by the legislature and signed into law by Gov. Ivey anyway; however, to address the sheriffs’ stated concerns over lost revenue, legislators created the Government Pistol Permit Revenue Loss Fund as part of the legislation. The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs (ADECA) is making disbursements to the sheriff’s offices based on reports collected by other state agencies. “ADECA intends to carry out our duties in this matter to ensure that Alabama’s sheriffs’ offices are compensated for their losses based on those shortages provided in the data,” said ADECA Director Kenneth Boswell. ADECA administers an array of programs supporting law enforcement and traffic safety, economic development, energy conservation, water resource management, and recreation development. The Local Government Pistol Permit Revenue Loss Fund is funded with an appropriation from the state general fund (SGF). Proponents of permitless carry claim that other states who have passed permitless carry have not experienced large declines in concealed carry permit sales and that over time, more citizens will carry firearms and thus will want the reciprocity benefits that having a permit provides to gun owners. To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email brandonmreporter@gmail.com.
Gov. Kay Ivey awards $150,000 to help former inmates find employment
On Tuesday, Gov. Kay Ivey awarded a $150,000 grant to assist state inmates who have obtained job skills to obtain employment once they are released from prison. The grant will assist J.F. Ingram State Technical College in Deatsville in linking graduates who trained while in prison for a vocation at the school with employers who are seeking employees with those skills. Gov. Ivey notified Annette Funderburk, president of J.F. Ingram State Technical College, that the grant had been approved. “By completing this training program, participating inmates demonstrate that they want to make amends for their past mistakes and earn the chance to become productive citizens after serving their sentences,” Gov. Ivey stated. “I commend them for their dedication to learning a skill, and I am pleased by those employers who see value in their achievement and are willing to hire them.” The program will work to identify and connect employers across the state with inmates who have skills that help Alabama companies thrive. Founded in 1965, J.F. Ingram provides training for inmates in a number of highly demanding labor fields, including welding, automotive repair, plumbing and HVAC, and carpentry. The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs is administering the grant from funds made available by the U.S. Department of Justice. “ADECA is pleased to join Gov. Ivey in her support of this program that has made and will continue to make a difference in the lives of so many people,” ADECA Director Kenneth Boswell said. ADECA administers an array of programs supporting law enforcement and traffic safety, economic development, energy conservation, water resource management, and recreation development.
Kay Ivey announces more money for broadband coming to Alabama
The federal government is sending Alabama more money to extend broadband access to more people in the state. Alabama Governor Kay Ivey announced on Thursday that the U.S. Treasury Department has approved the state’s plan for the Capital Projects Fund, making $191.8 million available for broadband expansion. “Access to broadband is a necessity in today’s world, and I continue to make it a priority that our state has the full ability to be connected to high-speed internet,” said Gov. Ivey. “I often say that broadband expansion is a journey, not a short trip. These funds will enable us to take several more strides in that journey toward full access no matter where you live in Alabama.” The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs will administer the funds as part of a grant program to support projects to extend service to previously unserved areas of the state. “Under Governor Ivey’s leadership and with a strong team effort among the Legislature, internet service providers, and many others, the state has made progress in expanding access to high-speed internet,” said ADECA Director Kenneth Boswell. “While the need is still great, these funds will enable us to make further progress in closing the digital divide in Alabama.” The funds are part of the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). Last year the Alabama Legislature approved these dollars for broadband expansion. ADECA was then tasked with creating a plan outlining use of the funds and submitted it to the U.S. Treasury Department in September 2022. The Treasury announced approval of that plan on Thursday. ADECA’s Alabama Digital Expansion Division will roll out the competitive grant program in the coming months. The program will be modeled after the Alabama Broadband Accessibility Fund, which ADECA has administered since 2018. The grants will be available for internet service providers to make “last-mile” connections to previously unserved homes, businesses, and community institutions. Once connected, residents will have the ability to become a customer of the broadband providers. The broadband is not free, and residents don’t have to actually subscribe to the service. Grant projects approved must provide connections of at least 100 megabits per second download/100 megabits per second upload. The governor has made increasing access to broadband a top priority of her administration. She promised in her inaugural address to make Alabama a national model when it comes to broadband expansion. Since 2018, Ivey has awarded $63.9 million in state funds to support 100 projects through the Alabama Broadband Accessibility Fund. Once all those projects are completed, access to broadband will be available to approximately 61,000 more households, businesses and community institutions that currently have no option to subscribe. To connect with the author of this story, or to comment, email brandonmreporter@gmail.com.
Kay Ivey awards $2.5 million grant to create 800 jobs in Baldwin County
On Thursday, Gov. Kay Ivey awarded a $2.5 million grant to help a world leader in aluminum manufacturing and recycling build a plant in south Alabama and create 800 new jobs. Site work is now underway, and a groundbreaking ceremony was held in October. Community Development Block Grant funds will provide the infrastructure required for Novelis Inc. to invest in a $2.4 billion facility in Bay Minette. The mega-plant will be on a 3,000-acre site off Alabama Highway 287 and Interstate 65. “This commitment from Novelis Inc. to construct a high-tech aluminum plant will have a major impact on Baldwin County and is evidence of Alabama’s strong business climate and its capable workforce,” Gov. Ivey stated. “I am pleased to award these funds in support of this project which will bring hundreds of job opportunities to the area.” In May 2022, Atlanta-based Novelis announced plans to build the low-carbon and energy-efficient aluminum rolling and recycling plant at the south Alabama location and use state-of-the-art equipment. “This investment marks the start of another transformational growth phase for Novelis,” said Kumar Mangalam Birla, Chairman of the Aditya Birla Group and the Novelis Board of Directors. “We continue to invest in each of the markets Novelis serves – from beverage can to automotive, aerospace, and specialties – and in all geographies. Novelis has a track record of success in delivering customers the low-carbon, sustainable aluminum solutions they seek, and we will continue that storied history with this investment and others to come.” Novelis provides products used in the automotive, aerospace, and general manufacturing businesses. The grant, administered by the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs (ADECA), will be used to extend public water and sewer services to the plant. The city of Bay Minette has pledged $650,000 in labor and equipment for the utility extensions. “Projects like this do not just happen on their own. They take a lot of teamwork and cooperation by local leaders who work tirelessly to put all the pieces in place,” ADECA Director Kenneth Boswell said. “ADECA is pleased to join Gov. Ivey in being part of this project which will provide many benefits to Bay Minette, Baldwin County, and the entire region.” Gov. Ivey notified Mayor Robert Wills that the grant had been approved. Community Development Block Grant funding is made available to Alabama through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. ADECA manages a range of programs that support law enforcement, economic development, recreation, energy conservation, and water resource management.
Kay Ivey awards $3.4 million to help sexual assault victims
On Wednesday, Gov. Kay Ivey awarded $3.4 million in grants to support organizations that assist victims of sexual assault across Alabama. The grants will enable the nonprofit agencies to provide a variety of services to victims, including advocacy, referrals, counseling and emotional support, safety services, assistance with navigating the criminal and civil justice system, and assistance with filing victims’ compensation claims. “Those who have been victimized in such heinous ways need professional help as they navigate the criminal justice system and begin to heal from such awful trauma,” Gov. Ivey said in a press release. “I commend these organizations as they work to help victims find the assistance they need on their road to recovery.” The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs is administering the grants from funds made available to Alabama by the U.S. Department of Justice. “ADECA stands with Gov. Ivey as she continues to support the work of these organizations that help victims of sexual assault in Alabama,” ADECA Director Kenneth Boswell stated. “Through ADECA’s partnerships with these organizations, victims will have the help they need to begin rebuilding their lives.” Gov. Ivey awarded the following grants: Tuscaloosa SAFE Center, Inc. (Bibb, Fayette, Greene, Hale, Lamar, Marengo, Pickens, Sumter and Tuscaloosa counties): $186,225 2nd Chance, Inc. (Calhoun, Cherokee, Cleburne, Etowah, Randolph and Talladega counties): $136,160 The WellHouse (statewide): $537,752 Montgomery Area Family Violence Program Inc./Family Sunshine Center (Autauga, Butler, Chilton, Crenshaw, Elmore, Lowndes, and Montgomery counties): $254,358 Crisis Services of North Alabama Inc. (Jackson, Limestone, Madison, and Morgan counties): $212,702 Alabama Coalition Against Rape (statewide): $213,156 Victim Services of Cullman Inc. (Cullman and Winston counties): $58,225 SafeHouse of Shelby County Inc. (Chilton, Clay, Coosa, and Shelby counties): $243,301 University of Alabama (Tuscaloosa County): $340,935 Rape Counselors of East Alabama (Chambers, Lee, Macon, Russell, and Tallapoosa counties): $145,160 One Place of the Shoals (Colbert, Franklin, Lauderdale, Lawrence, Marion, and Winston counties): $112,290 Baldwin Family Violence Shelter/The Lighthouse (Baldwin and Escambia counties): $64,915 Family Services of North Alabama (DeKalb and Marshall counties): $162,350 SAN, Inc./Turning Point (Bibb, Fayette, Greene, Hale, Lamar, Marengo, Pickens, Sumter, and Tuscaloosa counties): $42,975 Family Counseling Center of Mobile Inc. (Clarke, Mobile, and Washington counties): $209,145 Crisis Center Inc. (Blount, Chilton, Jefferson, St. Clair, and Walker counties): $473,680 ADECA manages a wide array of programs that support law enforcement and traffic safety, energy conservation, water resource management, economic development, and recreation.
Kay Ivey awards $2.65 Million to fight homelessness
Alabama Governor Kay Ivey announced on Tuesday that she has awarded $2.65 million in grant money to help Alabamians who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless obtain shelter and other related services. “Helping others in need is the Alabama way, and our folks’ unrelenting desire to do so is one of the many things that makes our state so special,” said Governor Ivey. “Unfortunately, homelessness is a very real issue facing our communities, and it’s on us as Alabamians to change that. I’m proud to allocate these funds towards ensuring those less fortunate have a safe, warm shelter to spend the holidays.” The funds come from federal dollars through the Emergency Solutions Grants program. The money will assist twelve governments and nonprofit organizations in providing shelter, legal and health services, and other assistance to help individuals and families who face losing their homes or are already homeless. The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs (ADECA) is administering the grants from funds made available by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. ADECA administers an array of programs supporting law enforcement and traffic safety, economic development, energy conservation, water resource management, and recreation development. “Emergency Solutions Grants are intended to help people with immediate and often temporary needs,” said ADECA Director Kenneth Boswell. “I join Governor Ivey in commending these local governments and other agencies who are providing that helping hand to individuals and families who are going through rough times.” The City of Florence will receive $300,000 to contract with Safeplace Inc., the Community Action Agency of Northwest Alabama, and the Salvation Army to offer homelessness prevention assistance, rapid re-housing, and related services to residents in Colbert, Franklin, Marion, Lauderdale, Lawrence and Winston counties. The City of Huntsville was $400,000 to contract with AshaKiran Inc., Catholic Center of Concern, Community Action Partnership of Huntsville/Madison and Limestone Counties Inc., Crisis Services of North Alabama, Disabled American Veterans, Family Services Center, First Stop, North Alabama Coalition for the Homeless, New Futures Inc. and Wellstone Inc. to provide services in Huntsville. Marshall County Home Place Inc. in Guntersville will receive $31,500 to provide emergency shelter in Marshall County. The Right Place for Housing and Support in Anniston was awarded $200,000 to provide street outreach, emergency shelter, and housing assistance for persons in Calhoun, Cherokee, DeKalb, and Etowah counties. Second Chance in Anniston will receive $200,000 to provide emergency shelter and rapid re-housing for domestic violence victims and their families in Calhoun, Cherokee, Cleburne, Etowah, Randolph, and Talladega counties. The Link of Cullman County will receive $250,000 to provide emergency shelter, homelessness prevention, street outreach, and rapid re-housing for victims in Cullman County. YWCA of Central Alabama in Birmingham was awarded $200,000 to provide emergency shelter, homelessness prevention, and rapid re-housing for domestic violence victims in Blount, Jefferson, and St. Clair counties. The Shelby County Commission was awarded $150,148 to contract with Family Connections, SafeHouse of Shelby County Inc., and Shelby Emergency Assistance to provide emergency shelter, homelessness prevention, and rapid re-housing for residents in Shelby County. The Montgomery Area Coalition for the Homeless (also known as the Mid-Alabama Coalition for the Homeless) received an award of $350,000 to contract with Family Promise of Montgomery, Montgomery Area Family Violence Program (also known as the Family Sunshine Center), Friendship Mission Inc. and Hands On River Region to provide street outreach, homelessness prevention and rapid re-housing for persons in Autauga, Bullock, Elmore, Lowndes and Montgomery counties. SAN Inc. (the Turning Point in Tuscaloosa) was awarded $100,000 to provide emergency services and rapid re-housing for victims of domestic violence in Bibb, Fayette, Hale, Lamar, Pickens, and Tuscaloosa counties. The Salvation Army in Mobile and Baldwin counties was awarded a $300,000 grant to provide emergency shelter for people in those two counties. Penelope House Inc. in Mobile received $177,000 to provide emergency shelter for domestic violence victims in Mobile County. Kay Ivey is one of the most popular governors in the nation. To connect with the author of this story, or to comment, email brandonmreporter@gmail.com.
Kay Ivey awards $7.1 million to assist domestic violence victims
Gov. Kay Ivey has awarded $7.1 million in grants to help provide services to domestic violence victims across the state. The funds will provide services, including safe shelter, crisis lines, counseling, referrals, advocacy, and assistance in filing victims’ compensation claims. “Domestic violence unfortunately continues to affect some Alabama families and residents, and they deserve to have access to quick and compassionate services to help them take steps toward recovery and prevent further abuse,” Gov. Ivey said. “I am pleased to support these organizations who help victims navigate the legal system and begin to heal.” The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs will administer the grants from funds made available by the U.S. Department of Justice. ADECA administers a wide range of programs that support law enforcement, economic development, infrastructure upgrades, recreation, energy conservation, and water resources management. “ADECA shares Gov. Ivey’s dedication to helping victims of domestic abuse by making sure they and those who are assisting them have the resources they need as they rebuild their lives,” ADECA Director Kenneth Boswell said. The following grants were awarded to organizations that provide direct services: Baldwin Family Violence Shelter (Baldwin, Conecuh, Escambia, Monroe): $262,197 Penelope House (Choctaw, Clarke, Mobile, Washington): $282,806 The House of Ruth Inc. (Barbour, Bullock, Coffee, Covington, Dale, Geneva, Henry, Houston, Pike): $427,034 Legal Services Alabama Inc. (Madison): $34,293 Family Sunshine Center (Autauga, Butler, Chilton, Crenshaw, Elmore, Lowndes, Montgomery): $838,802 Columbus Alliance for Battered Women Inc. (Russell): $74,875 SafeHouse of Shelby County Inc. (Chilton, Clay, Coosa, Shelby): $519,145 King’s Home (Jefferson, Shelby): $449,698 SAN Inc., better known as Turning Point (Bibb, Fayette, Hale, Lamar, Pickens, Tuscaloosa): $216,397 Domestic Violence Intervention Center (Chambers, Lee, Macon, Randolph, Tallapoosa): $194,181 2nd Chance Inc. (Calhoun, Cleburne, Etowah, Talladega): $313,523 Family Resource Center of Northwest Alabama Inc. (Walker): $167,029 Victim Services of Cullman Inc. (Cullman): $292,811 Safeplace, Inc. (Colbert, Franklin, Lauderdale, Lawrence, Marion, Winston): $1,366,222 One Place of the Shoals (Colbert, Franklin, Lauderdale, Lawrence, Marion, Winston): $50,593 Domestic Violence Crisis Services (Cherokee, DeKalb, Marshall): $171,143 Crisis Services of North Alabama Inc. (Jackson, Limestone, Madison, Morgan): $689,431 Selma and Blackbelt Regional Abuse Sanctuary Inc. (Dallas, Greene, Marengo, Perry, Sumter and Wilcox): $156,332 YWCA Central Alabama (Blount, Jefferson, St. Clair): $673,051
Kay Ivey kicks off first of 67 County meetings to expand broadband across Alabama
Governor Kay Ivey was in Montgomery County on Monday to kick off the first of a series of statewide meetings through a program organized by the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs (ADECA). The Alabama Community Broadband Technical Assistance Program (TAP) initiative will be offered in each of Alabama’s 67 counties, all of which are open to the public. “In today’s modern world, being connected is a necessity, and there’s far too many Alabamians who are unable to access high-speed internet. Increasing access to connectivity across the state has been and will continue to be a top priority for my Administration as we move into the next four years,” stated Gov. Ivey. “This is the first meeting of many that will be offered in all 67 counties across the state, and I encourage our local leaders and communities to participate. These ADECA-led programs host the critical steps we must take to get our state across the broadband finish line.” The TAP program is being administered by ADECA’s Alabama Digital Expansion Division, which has been tasked with awarding the funds for broadband expansion across the state of Alabama. “Under Governor Ivey’s leadership, Alabama has made strides in mapping and planning at the state level to increase broadband service in unserved areas of our state,” said ADECA Director Kenneth Boswell. “With the help of this funding from the U.S. Department of Commerce, ADECA will extend assistance with broadband mapping and planning to the county level. This will help counties and communities develop plans and data to help take advantage of the many future opportunities for grant funding to help internet service providers expand broadband access to unserved areas.” TAP will provide local governments and other public stakeholders with the technical assistance needed to deploy or expand broadband infrastructure and services to help communities prepare for broadband deployment and digital opportunities. The funding for this program will come from the U.S. Department of Commerce Economic Development Administration and the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA). An NTIA representative was also present at the Montgomery meeting to announce grant awards of $5 million from the Broadband, Equity, Access, and Deployment Program and $981,081 from the Digital Equity Act to support the program and other planning activities to increase access to broadband service. The federal government has flooded the state with billions of dollars to address rural broadband and other broadband access issues. Over the next few years, the state will make unprecedented funds available to expand broadband. These county meetings are designed to promote engagement from elected officials, internet service providers, government and community anchors, community-based organizations, and the general public in shaping the state’s plans for counties to maximize these opportunities. The Monday meeting at the Montgomery Commission was the first of these 67 meetings. Full-day engagements will follow on Tuesday in Lowndes County, then Greene County on Wednesday, Sumter County on Thursday, and Marengo County on Friday, December 16. These meetings are open to the public, and all interested in participating are encouraged to attend. You can sign up to receive email updates from ADECA to find out updates on this program, including when meetings will be scheduled in your home county and details like timing, location, and program itinerary. The Lowndes County meetings on December 13 will be at Jackson-Steele Elementary School, 570 Freedom Rd. in Hayneville. They will meet with elected officials from 9 to 10 am, ISPs, elected officials from 10:30-11:30 am, government and community anchors from 2-3 pm, organizations and associations from 3:30 – 4:30 pm, and the public from 5:30 to 6:30 pm. The Greene County meetings on December 14 will be at the R.H. Young Community Center, 720 Greensboro Street, in Eutaw. The elected officials meeting is from 9-10 am, the ISPs and elected officials meeting from 10:30-11:30 am, the Government and community anchors meeting is at 2-3 pm, the organizations and associations meeting 3:30 – 4:30 pm, and the public meeting is 5:00-6:30 pm. The Sumter County meetings on December 15 will be held at Land Hall on the University of Western Alabama campus at 154 Student Union Drive in Livingston. The meeting with elected officials will be from 9-10 am, the meeting with ISPs and elected officials will follow at 10:30-11:30 am, the meeting with government, community anchors, organizations, and associations will be at 1:00-2:30 pm. The Sumter County public meeting will be held on another date yet to be determined. The Marengo County meetings on December 16 will be held at Rooster Hall – 216 N Walnut Ave. in Demopolis. The meeting with elected officials will be from 9-10 am. The meeting will follow that for ISPs and elected officials from 10:30-11:30 am. The meeting with government, community anchors, organizations, and associations will be from 1:00-2:30 pm. The public meeting will be held on another date that has yet to be determined. To connect with the author of this story, or to comment, email brandonmreporter@gmail.com.
Alabama counties to hold meetings to improve broadband access
On Friday, Gov. Kay Ivey announced a new initiative to improve broadband access called the Alabama Community Broadband Technical Assistance Program. The governor participated on Monday at the Montgomery County Commission in the first of a series of meetings that will occur in each Alabama county through the program organized by the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs (ADECA). The state has long lagged behind the rest of the nation in broadband access – a weakness that was made abundantly clear during the COVID-19 global pandemic when hundreds of thousands of Alabamians had limited access to telemedicine, telecommuting, and e-learning during the extended forced economic shutdown where schools, government offices, doctors’ offices, and many businesses were shut down for months. “In 2022, being able to be connected at home, work, or on the go is absolutely necessary,” Ivey said recently at an event in Prattville where she announced $82.45 million to make statewide broadband more available and affordable to more people. “Achieving full broadband coverage is a journey, not a short trip, and today is an important step toward completing that journey,” Gov. Ivey stated. A representative from the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) will also be present to announce broadband grants. Gov. Ivey was joined by ADECA Director Kenneth Boswell, NTIA Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and Information Alan Davidson, Montgomery TechLab Program Director Charles Jackson, and local officials. Economic developer Dr. Nicole Jones told Alabama Today, “Broadband internet is a request that virtually every major business desires when locating within Alabama. Access to high-speed internet/fiber will increase our state’s ability to recruit jobs, improve healthcare, and enhance educational opportunities for students. Thank you to Governor Kay Ivey and ADECA for making efforts to address the unique challenges in all of Alabama’s 67 counties through the Alabama Community Broadband Technical Assistance Program (TAP). Public funds combined with private sector investments is a team effort that helps initiatives come to fruition and ultimately enhances the quality of life for Alabamians.” The state is flush with hundreds of millions of dollars from the federal government’s American Rescue Plan Act and the bipartisan infrastructure bill to address broadband issues. The state has tasked ADECA with being the lead agency in this effort. ADECA is administering the Broadband effort through its Alabama Digital Expansion Division, which the Legislature created to identify projects that will expand broadband access in Alabama. More details about the Alabama Community Broadband Technical Assistance Program (TAP) will be released in the coming days. To connect with the author of this story, or to comment, email brandonmreporter@gmail.com.
Kay Ivey announces $1.3 million for state innovation and research
Governor Kay Ivey announced Wednesday awards of $1.3 million in order to stimulate new research and development at three Alabama universities and university systems hoping to help improve lives. The University of Alabama at Birmingham was awarded two grants totaling $666,910, the University of Alabama was awarded two grants totaling $486,026, and Auburn University received a grant of $184,773. “Often, the research and development that comes out of our universities has far-reaching and life-altering impacts across a wide array of issue areas,” said Gov. Ivey. “Alabama’s future outlook is largely dependent on our ability to find solutions to the problems of tomorrow, and I commend the students and professors for their dedication and time-consuming efforts to ensure Alabama remains the leader in innovation that it is.” The grants are from the Alabama Research and Development Enhancement Fund. The state-funded program was created in 2019 under the Alabama Innovation Act, which was approved by the Alabama State Legislature and signed into law by Gov. Ivey. The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs (ADECA) is administering the grants. “ADECA is pleased to join with Governor Ivey in supporting and encouraging research and innovation at our state universities,” said ADECA Director Kenneth Boswell. “It is amazing to see solutions arise out of challenges relating to science and technology and other fields of study.” The grants awards: University of Alabama at Birmingham • $316,910 to conduct research relating to the development of a new neurovascular stent for stroke treatment. • $350,000 to conduct research involving the development of a new material in dental root-canal treatment. University of Alabama • $399,831 to conduct research relating to development of a membrane for the removal of some man-made chemicals which may cause harm in humans. • $86,314 to conduct research involving the development of ultra-high performance concrete using materials available in Alabama Auburn University • $184,773 to conduct research relating to the development of an iron-based contrast agent in an angiography procedure that examines blood flow in the body. ADECA administers a wide range of programs that support law enforcement, victim programs, economic development, water resource management, energy conservation and recreation. Gov. Ivey grew up on a cattle farm in Wilcox County. She graduated from Auburn University and taught school in California before returning to Alabama to hold several positions in state government. In 2002 she was elected State Treasurer. She has served two terms as Treasurer and two as Lieutenant Governor. In 2017 she was elevated to Governor and then elected in her own right in 2018. Ivey seeks a second term in Tuesday’s general election. Ivey faces Libertarian nominee Dr. James “Jimmy” Blake and Democratic nominee Yolanda Flowers. There are also two write-in candidates seeking the office. To connect with the author of this story, or to comment, email brandonmreporter@gmail.com.
Kay Ivey awards $19.3 million in grants for community improvements
On Thursday, Gov. Kay Ivey announced grant awards of nearly $19.3 million in grants to provide improvements in 49 Alabama towns, cities, and counties. The Community Development Block Grants (CDBG) are federal dollars from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The HUD grants will be used by local governments to pave or resurface roads, eliminate blight and drainage problems, improve water or sewer service and build or improve local community centers and playgrounds. “Community Development Block Grants help communities address major needs whether it be supplying clean drinking water or eliminating dilapidated and unsafe structures,” said Gov. Ivey. “I congratulate the cities and counties who received grants in this keenly competitive process, and I wish them the best in improving their communities.” The CDBG money in Alabama is awarded annually in a competitive bid process that is based on several categories: small city (population 2,999 or less), large city (population 3,000 or more), county, and community enhancement. Planning grants are also awarded to help local governments examine needs and provide a vision for the future. The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs (ADECA) administers the grants. “ADECA is pleased to be a part of a program that is so beneficial to cities and counties across our state,” said ADECA Director Kenneth Boswell.” I commend community leaders and planners for their efforts to improve the lives of their residents and make their communities better places to live.” The grants awarded and projects (grouped by geographical region) are: North Alabama · Belk – $400,000 to replace a major water line. · Berry – $400,000 for sewer line replacement and related improvements. · Cherokee – $362,422 for drainage and ditch improvements. · Colony – $399,827 for street improvements. · Courtland – $400,000 for water line upgrades and improvements. · Garden City – $389,800 to upgrade the town’s sewer system. · Guinn – $304,000 for street resurfacing and drainage improvements. · Hodges – $329,000 for downtown revitalization, including razing dilapidated buildings. · Jacksonville – $500,000 to replace sewer lines. · Lexington – $397,907 for water and fire suppression improvements. · Oxford – $500,000 for drainage improvements and demolition of dilapidated structures. · Pell City – $500,000 for water system improvements. · Rainsville – $500,000 to repair and replace sewer lines. · Ranburne – $400,000 to renovate the town’s senior citizen center. · Scottsboro – $400,000 to demolish and clear 26 dilapidated structures. · Steele – $400,000 to replace a main water line. · Valley Head – $400,000 for street and drainage improvements. · Winfield – $342,000 to demolish 18 dilapidated and abandoned/vacant structures. Central Alabama · Brent – $500,00 for sewer line rehabilitation. · Coosa County – $135,801 to resurface American Legion Road near Goodwater and Coosa County Road 38 in the Mt. Olive Community. · Coosada – $350,000 to demolish 30 dilapidated vacant or abandoned structures throughout the town. · Crenshaw County – $500,000 to resurface and relocate water lines on Starhope Church Road. · Forkland – $400,000 to upgrade the town’s park including constructing a pavilion and concession stand/bathroom facility. · Hale County – $500,000 for water system rehabilitation along Hale County Road 64 · Luverne – $400,000 for sewer line improvements and street paving. · Mosses – $400,000 for the resurfacing of Main Street. · Notasulga- $32,000 to develop a comprehensive city plan. · Randolph County – $500,000 to resurface and improve drainage along Randolph County roads 30 and 17 in the Rock Mills Community. · Roanoke – $500,000 to rehabilitate and resurface five streets. South Alabama · Ashford – $234,000 to make improvements on four streets. · Barbour County – $400,000 to construct a new senior citizen center in Clio. · Butler – $222,750 for a sewer line replacement. · Castleberry – $400,000 to rehabilitate the town’s water system and several streets, including adding fire hydrants. · Clayhatchee – $202,366 to provide lighting for a baseball field and to build a pole barn at the recreation park. · Coffeeville- $400,000 for roof replacement at the town’s community center. · Elba – $500,000 for street resurfacing and drainage improvements. · Florala- $375,655 to renovate the former Florala Middle School gymnasium. · Florala – $32,000 to develop a comprehensive city plan. · Geneva- $500,000 for housing rehabilitation as part of its neighborhood revitalization program. · Geneva County – $474,667 to resurface several streets in the Bellwood community. · Gordon – $400,000 for sewer line rehabilitation. · Jackson – $500,000 for drainage improvements. · Louisville – $400,000 for housing rehabilitation and demolition and clearance. · Madrid – $229,200 to resurface and make improvements on two city streets. · Monroe County – $500,000 to rehabilitate a portion of the Excel Water System serving the unincorporated Hillside Community. · New Brockton – $392,900 for housing rehabilitation. · Opp – $400,000 to resurface several streets. · Pinkard – $342,177 to resurface and make improvements on several city streets. · Vredenburgh – $337,125 to make improvements at the town’s community park including construction of a pavilion. · Washington County – $500,000 to resurface Mitchell Road east of Millry. ADECA administers an array of programs supporting law enforcement and traffic safety, economic development, energy conservation, water resource management, and recreation development. Kay Ivey is running for re-election on November 8. She faces Democrat Yolanda Rochelle Flowers and Libertarian Dr. James “Jimmy” Blake. Ivey was elevated to the office in 2017 when Gov. Robert Bentley resigned. She was elected to her own term in 2018. To connect with the author of this story, or to comment, email brandonmreporter@gmail.com.
Kay Ivey awards $1.64 million to enhance trails
On Thursday, Governor Kay Ivey announced awards of nearly $1.64 million to improve outdoor recreational venues in Alabama. Funds from the federal Recreational Trails Program will be used to build, restore and improve trails in eight communities across the state. “Alabama’s outdoor trails are an excellent invitation for individuals, groups, and families to get outside and enjoy our state’s natural beauty,” stated Ivey. “I am proud to award these funds and create more opportunities for Alabamians and visitors to enjoy outdoor recreation in our beautiful state.” The funds were made available by the Federal Highway Administration’s Recreational Trails Program. The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs (ADECA) administers the awards. “Trails and recreational facilities add so much to the quality of life in Alabama communities,” said ADECA Director Kenneth Boswell. “Seeing a well-kept and well-used trail or other recreational facility relays to everyone that this is a community that takes pride in itself and its people. ADECA is pleased to join Governor Ivey in supporting these trail projects.” Gov. Ivey awarded grants to: · Brundidge has received a $200,000 grant to resurface with asphalt and extend the trail at Ramage Park and expand the parking area. · The Calhoun County Commission was awarded $300,000 to construct a trailhead campsite with water, sewer, and electric hookups at the former Fort McClellan Army base in Anniston. The site offers about 20 miles of trails for hiking and horseback riding. · Cleveland will receive $90,148 to construct a walking trail, new gate, and benches at the Cleveland Family Recreation and Wildlife Habitat area. The project will include building a boardwalk across a pond. · The Colbert County Commission was awarded $244,952 to expand the Alloys Park campground by adding 17 campsites with hookups, a parking area and sidewalks. The campground is located at the Wilson Lake compound of the Tennessee River. · The City of Cullman received a $300,000 grant to construct a partially lighted motorized trail for golf carts at Palomino RV Resort at Burrow-Hamilton Farm. The 170-acre park is located off Cullman County Road 222 west of Interstate 65. It offers recreational vehicles and other campers opportunities to fish, paddle, swim, play pickleball and basketball, and more. · The City of Fayette was awarded $210,000 to construct a ¼-mile-long, 10-foot-wide multi-use trail downtown along an abandoned railroad bed as part of the first phase of the 2.2-mile-long project. The trail will extend from the Fayette Railroad Depot to Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard. · Opelika has been awarded $210,000 to construct a multi-use trail along the banks of Pepperell Branch off Waverly Parkway and U.S. Highway 280. · Slocomb will receive an $88,032 grant to construct a 1.75-mile walking and bicycling trail and a parking area south of McCullough Road. The Recreational Trails Program (RTP) was created in 1998 and is funded by the U.S. Department of Transportation and the Federal Highway Administration. The RTP provides grant assistance to state and federal agencies and local governments for the acquisition and/or development/improvement of recreational trails and trail-related resources. Examples of eligible trail types include; but are not limited to walking, jogging, cycling, skating, mountain biking, hiking, backpacking, off-highway vehicle, and equestrian. The Federal share of the program is up to 80 percent of total project costs up to the grant ceiling associated with the type of trail and/or trail-related facility. The project sponsor must provide at least 20 percent match in the form of state, local, or private sources, and may include volunteer labor and/or donated materials and/or services. ADECA administers a wide range of programs that support law enforcement, victim assistance programs, economic development, water resource management, energy conservation, and recreation. To connect with the author of this story, or to comment, email brandonmreporter@gmail.com.
