Council approves consent agenda; OKs mandatory e‑filing ordinance, settles $525,000 claim and reappoints planning commissioners

Birmingham — The Birmingham City Council used its Jan. 13 meeting to clear a broad consent agenda, approve a new rule for mandatory electronic filing of business tax returns and license renewals, approve a $525,000 settlement resolution, and confirm reappointments to the Planning Commission.

Consent items: The council approved the consent agenda by voice vote after the clerk read item numbers; item 42 was removed from consent for separate consideration. The clerk noted several item corrections and funding source changes were recorded in the consent packet.

Mandatory e‑filing ordinance: Yolanda Lawson of the city attorney’s office explained that the ordinance will require businesses to file and remit certain tax returns electronically using the city’s existing HDL system, allow administrative waivers for hardship, and include plans for a public kiosk at City Hall to preserve in‑person electronic access. Lawson said the change is intended to streamline review, lower error rates and expand hours of access. Councilors voted to adopt the ordinance.

Settlement resolution: The council approved a resolution authorizing the mayor and city attorney to settle a claim filed by RJ Young Company LLC for an amount not to exceed $525,000; funds were authorized from the general fund (print shop capital outlay GL referenced in the packet). One councilor recorded an abstention on the item.

Appointments: The council approved reappointments to the Birmingham Planning Commission (six‑year terms expiring Oct. 6, 2031) for Stephen Schrader and Sharon D. Nelson as recommended by the Planning and Zoning Committee.

What’s next: The city will implement the electronic‑filing rollout with administrative guidance and a waiver process for those unable to file electronically; departments will publish details and outreach plans for affected businesses.