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Council votes to recall recent Kelsen/Felder nightlife ordinance for more public input after administration apology
Summary
The council voted to recall Ordinance 26-50 (Kelsen/Felder amendments) to allow further community and committee review; Mayor Woodfin apologized on the record for earlier public comments and the administration agreed to more outreach before the ordinance returns to council.
The Birmingham City Council voted to recall Ordinance 26-50, an amendment to the Kelsen/Felder ordinance, and return it to the Public Safety Committee for additional community input and administrative review.
Council President Alexander said the recall aims to ensure the city incorporates public feedback and coordinates with the Birmingham Police Department, the Office of the City Attorney and business stakeholders. Mayor Woodfin addressed the council and said he had made public comments in a social post that were "not meant to offend" and offered a public apology: "I publicly apologize" for how remarks were perceived by the body. He said the administration will work with committee leadership and stakeholders to get the ordinance right.
Councilors representing the restaurant and hospitality sector thanked owners who raised concerns and emphasized balancing public safety and the economic interests of local businesses. The council approved the recall to permit more outreach and committee consideration.
