How a Local Hire Ordinance Will Create Jobs and Strengthen Birmingham’s Economy
BIRMINGHAM, AL – In a historic move to promote local economic empowerment and equity, the Birmingham City Council unanimously passed a Local Hire Ordinance, which will leverage funding from the federal Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to create transformative opportunities for local residents of Birmingham. In addition to prioritizing the hiring of local workers, the ordinance also incentivizes contractors to employ apprentices enrolled in state- and federally-approved training programs for city-funded construction projects.
This innovative initiative is a major step forward in Birmingham’s commitment to fostering economic stability, building a skilled workforce, and advancing equity by removing systemic barriers to good jobs.
“Prioritizing local hiring for construction jobs funded by federal infrastructure dollars is a powerful step toward community upliftment,” said Patricia Todd, Policy Director of Jobs to Move America. “By ensuring residents benefit directly from these opportunities, the city can address unemployment, equip workers with valuable skills, and create a more equitable path to long-term economic stability.”
The ordinance establishes clear goals for contractors working on projects exceeding $3 million, including:
- Local Hiring Requirement: Contractors must ensure at least 30% of labor hours are performed by local workers who reside in the Birmingham-Hoover Metropolitan Statistical Area.
- Apprenticeship Opportunities: A minimum of 15% of all labor hours must be completed by apprentices in approved training programs, providing invaluable skill development and pathways to long-term employment.
- Equity Advancement: Contractors are encouraged to collaborate with workforce programs that target historically disadvantaged groups, ensuring that opportunities reach underrepresented communities.
The ordinance also incorporates accountability measures to ensure compliance and good faith efforts from contractors, reinforcing Birmingham’s dedication to delivering meaningful results.
“This ordinance is more than just a policy—it’s a roadmap for economic empowerment,” said Larry Hodge, Senior Community Organizer for Jobs to Move America. “It ensures that the people of Birmingham, especially those from underserved communities, have access to the jobs and skills that build better futures.”
Economic Empowerment and Community Engagement
By keeping infrastructure dollars circulating within the local economy, Birmingham strengthens its workforce and provides direct support to residents. Contractors will now create written Local Hiring Plans, recruit from the Birmingham area, and actively engage with community stakeholders to meet hiring goals.
Skill Development and Long-Term Sustainability
Through its apprenticeship incentives, the ordinance offers workers opportunities to develop valuable skills while earning wages. These measures equip local residents for long-term careers in construction and related fields, building a pipeline of skilled workers who can sustain Birmingham’s growth.
Equity at the Forefront
The Priority Hire Ordinance is a significant step toward addressing disparities in access to good-paying jobs. By encouraging outreach to historically underrepresented groups, the policy promotes a workforce that reflects the diversity of the Birmingham community.
Jobs to Move America celebrates this milestone as a model for cities nationwide looking to align economic development with community empowerment.