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Council approves $10 million to build Freedom Center, authorizes bond notes and 20-year $1 lease
Summary
The Birmingham City Council approved a $10 million appropriation, bond‑anticipation notes and a 20‑year ground lease at $1/year to develop a Freedom Center that will include archive space and renovation of the AG Gaston Motel; supporters said grants and outside partners will offset operating costs.
The Birmingham City Council voted to advance a package of measures to build a proposed Freedom Center near the Civil Rights Institute, approving a $10 million appropriation to support construction, authorization to issue bond anticipation notes and a 20‑year ground lease at an annual rent of $1.
Mayor William A. Bell Sr. told the council the selection of Birmingham as host of the 2021 World Games raised the city's profile and underscored the need for cultural and historical infrastructure. "We've met with the Department of Interior and the governor," the mayor said, describing outreach to federal and state partners to help fund outfitting and…
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