Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Economic Development topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Birmingham approves hosting World Police and Fire Games; city pledges up to $58,500 in incentives
Summary
The council approved a resolution authorizing the city to host the World Police and Fire Games at multiple venues June 25through July 7, 2025, and agreed to contribute up to $58,500 in financial incentives. Organizers expect thousands of athletes and economic activity from visitors.
The City Council voted to authorize an agreement with the Birmingham Host Committee for the 2025 World Police and Fire Games and to provide up to $58,500 in city incentives toward the event.
The resolution notes the Games will run from June 25 through July 7, 2025, with numerous venues including the Birmingham Crossplex. Chief Mitchell and event organizers said the Games will bring competitors and visitors from across the nation and overseas; organizers reported about 7,500 registered athletes at the time of the briefing and said the goal had been roughly 8,500 registrations.
Chief Mitchell said the city expects to register about 150 officers and firefighters to represent Birmingham and that roughly 400 athletes were registered from Alabama. The council discussed volunteer needs and outreach; Chief Mitchell said city employees should contact HR for volunteer roles and external volunteers should contact the event volunteer coordinator, Cathy Boswell, and the event website (wpgbham2025) for details.
Councilors praised organizers and noted economic benefits from hotel room nights and visitor spending. The resolution passed on a motion by Councilor Williams, seconded by Councilor Tate, by voice vote.
Ending: Organizers said the Games are free to the public and staff will share schedules and volunteer-signup information as registrations finalize.
