The Jefferson County Commission has embarked on a remarkable journey, distributing an astonishing **$25 million in community grants** over the past six years**. This substantial sum has found its way to cities, nonprofits, and various organizations throughout the region.
As reported by AL.com and The Birmingham Times, the commissioners have significantly increased their spending, dipping into public funds originally intended for infrastructure projects. Each of the five commissioners’ discretionary funds escalated from **$100,000 to an impressive $1.1 million**.
[Read more: $25 million in giveaways: Inside Jefferson County’s pork barrel bonanza]
Interestingly, the commissioners often lack oversight regarding expenditure reports, despite regulations requiring organizations to detail the usage of public funds. This raises concerns about accountability.
Here, we delve into the **top 10 recipients of these community grants** from the Jefferson County Commission, excluding governmental entities and cities, between **2018 and 2024**.
1. Friends of McCalla
The top recipient, the Friends of McCalla**, received nearly **$1.1 million** from the county commission. This nonprofit, under the leadership of District 3 Commissioner Jimmie Stephens, is dedicated to initiatives benefiting McCalla residents.
Despite the substantial funding, **Spending reports are often absent**, leading to a degree of concern. Stephens defended this approach, stating, “If you can see where that money is being spent, you can be assured it’s used properly.”
Founded in 2012, Friends of McCalla arose from a community desire for a dedicated ballpark, resulting from land donated by Norfolk Southern Railroad. In **2014**, $300,000 intended for McAdory Youth Football was redirected to support their construction efforts.
2. Empowerment Inc.
Receiving **$695,000, Empowerment Inc.** provides after-school programs for low-income students and support for the homeless. The major contributions were made by District 1 Commissioner Lashunda Scales and District 2 Commissioner Sheila Tyson.
3. Freshwater Land Trust
The Freshwater Land Trust**, focused on preserving waterways and promoting sustainability, received around **$653,000** in total funding from various commissioners. Their work includes the ongoing development of the **Red Rock Trail System** across Jefferson County.
4. Alabama Cooperative Extension System
With a rich history of funding, the commission allocated **$600,000** to the Alabama Cooperative Extension System**, an outreach initiative providing essential educational services linked to Alabama A&M University and Auburn University.
5. The Penny Foundation Inc.
This dynamic organization received **$490,000** of which **$485,000** was earmarked through Scales. The Penny Foundation actively promotes economic equity within the Black community through its various initiatives and programs.
6. Sports Council, Inc.
With funding of **$485,000**, primarily to support the Magic City Classic, the Sports Council hosts numerous sporting events to amplify local economic growth. This council works tirelessly to promote Birmingham through sporting excellence.
7. Birmingham Urban League, Inc.
Receiving **$477,600** entirely from Commissioner Tyson, the Birmingham Urban League provides vital community resources including financial literacy, job training, and small business support.
8. Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame
The Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame was allocated **$410,000**, intending to bolster music education and preserve the history of jazz in Birmingham. Notably, it serves a dual purpose by fostering cultural appreciation while contributing to community enrichment.
9. Jefferson State Community College
Funded with **$400,000**, the Jefferson State Community College plays a pivotal role in providing accessible educational opportunities across Jefferson County.
10. Red Mountain Park Foundation
This foundation received **$332,500**, with the majority allocated through former Commissioner Steve Ammons, focusing on the development of the greenspaces in the Birmingham area.
The funding landscape of Jefferson County reveals a tapestry of beneficiaries, each contributing uniquely to community well-being. Want to see a full breakdown of grants distributed between **2018 and 2024**? Check out the details below:
[Can’t see the table? Click here.]
