Residents voice concerns about trash dumping and public safety at District 6 Town Hall Meeting

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. ( WIAT ) — Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin and city councilor Crystal Smitherman heard from a number of residents in District 6 at a Town Hall meeting Thursday.

Most of the concerns and questions discussed by residents involved trash dumping, public safety and homelessness among a list of other things. District 6 resident, Valeria Claud, was among a crowd of other residents in attendance that wanted to express their concerns.

“Trash and about crime and stuff, so we really want to make an issue on that. Theft, burglary, so we really want to make a big issue on that, and we want to see more about it,” said Claud.

Prior to the question and answer portion of the meeting, Woodfin gave a presentation, showcasing the districts problems with litter, potholes, animal control calls, vacant properties and the need for community development.

Councilor Smitherman said solutions to these problems are already in the works.

“Mayor Woodfin and I have a good relationship as I mentioned before, we have a complaint log. We literally keep what the complaint is, who the person is, their contact and the status of it so that’s how we’re able to monitor it.” said Smitherman.

With over a dozen questions and remarks made, each resident was given a chance to leave their name and number at the end of the meeting.

Claud said she’s walking away optimistic that she will see improvement in the district.

“It’s just a blessing for these towns meetings. It’s very important for us to come out and listen to the town.” said Claud.

The town hall meetings for each district are scheduled once a year but councilor Smitherman encourages residents within her district to reach out to her office or the neighborhood officers with concerns.

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