Jefferson County Alabama: Podcast for the People

The World Police and Fire Games are 100 days out. There will be events from Hoover to Birmingham and Talladega to Oak Mtn. Listen to CEO DJ Mackovets explain what the games are, how to see your favorite events (everything is free!), and how to volunteer!  Visit BHM2025.com for all the deets. Events kick-off on June 27 - July 6. It's a great way to honor and support all first responders!Website: www.BHM2025.comVolunteer RegistrationAthlete EligibilityAthlete Entry BookHave an idea for a County podcast? Contact the Director of Public Information, Helen Hays at haysh@jccal.org

The Environmental Services Department is opening up applications for its Apprenticeship Program. Listen to the experiences of the people that have been in the program for a couple of years now and what surprised them about the work. You can also learn what the application process is like and who makes a great candidate. Hint: You don't need a college degree! Applications will open on Wednesday, March 12, 2025 at JobsQuest.org. Have an idea for a County podcast? Contact the Director of Public Information, Helen Hays at haysh@jccal.org

Learn about all the updates and deadlines in this episode from Jefferson County Director of Revenue Scott Moore.For more information from the Department of Revenue click hereHave an idea for a County podcast? Contact the Director of Public Information, Helen Hays at haysh@jccal.org

Join Hana Berres, our Stormwater Program Manager for the "Why" behind our Electronics Drop-Off Day that is coming up Jan. 25 at the Birmingham Zoo. She will walk us through what you can bring, why its important, and what will happen if Mother Nature gets all crazy on us. For more information you can always visit our "Keep It Clean" page for information on this event and a 2025 calendar of all events. You can also call the stormwater program at 205-325-8741. Have an idea for a County podcast? Contact the Director of Public Information, Helen Hays at haysh@jccal.org

The holidays are the hottest time for scammers to strike. Joining us on this podcast are Public Information Officer Henry Irby from the Jefferson County Sheriff's Dept. and Jefferson County's Information Technology Security Officer Cedric Norfleet. They discuss how to spot both online and phone scams, what you should never do (hint: don't give your credit card information over the phone), and what to do if you believe you have been scammed. The Sheriff's Dept says reports can be made by calling 205-325-1450 or emailing info@jeffcosheriffal.com or tips@jeffcosheriffal.com to get the report process started. A deputy can be dispatched to the citizen's location, or the citizen can go to a local substation. Please share this information with the more senior people in your life. Senior citizens are often the targets of scammers. Have an idea for a County podcast? Contact the Director of Public Information, Helen Hays at haysh@jccal.org

Business owners need the following information to renew online: !) Account number 2) Tax ID number and 3) gross revenue amount from previous year. Be sure to also have a basic email, phone number and password to get set up in the system.Log on to srt.jccal.org to get started today! Have an idea for a County podcast? Contact the Director of Public Information, Helen Hays at haysh@jccal.org

Interview with Barry Stephenson, Chair of the Jefferson County Board of Registrars, about how to check to make sure you are ready to vote on election day. Also, absentee voting started this week and will be open until the end of October. Important links to remember:* To check your voter registration visit: AlabamaVotes.gov* If you have questions you can call the Board of Registrars office at 205-325-5550* You can also visit JCCAL.org and click on the "Voter Information" boxWe look forward to seeing you at the polls!Have an idea for a County podcast? Contact the Director of Public Information, Helen Hays at haysh@jccal.org

Janice Williams, Coordinator of Senior Citizens Services stopped by to give us details on Jefferson County's Wellness Senior Resource Expo happening this Friday September 13th from 9am to 1pm. Tune in to learn all the ways you can participate or gain valuable information and resources for your families and friends, as well as enjoy a fun time of activities! Have an idea for a County podcast? Contact the Director of Public Information, Helen Hays at haysh@jccal.org

Air quality is vital for thriving ecosystems, especially as we transition to new seasons throughout the year. There are also measures that people with certain health sensitivities should be mindful of when we receive new air quality alerts.We sat down with Matt Lacke, Meteorologist  with Jefferson County Department of Health Air and Radiation Protection Division to gain a full understanding of the importance of the air quality alerts, how can take preventative steps against air pollution, plus valuable tips on environmental awareness and safety for our families. Tune in and share your thoughts! Have an idea for a County podcast? Contact the Director of Public Information, Helen Hays at haysh@jccal.org

The Jefferson County Commission has expanded its support for the Osprey Initiative to $125,000 a year for three years, to support the instillation and maintenance of 5 Litter Gitters across Jefferson County to help reduce the amount of litter. Listen to Hana Berres, Education Coordinator with the Jefferson County Stormwater Program and Mitch Lowe with the Osprey Initiative talk about how the Litter Gitter's work to keep the County Clean.Have an idea for a County podcast? Contact the Director of Public Information, Helen Hays at haysh@jccal.org

Do you have turf envy? Jefferson County Stormwater Education Training Coordinator and Master Gardener Hana Berres tells you the first step to having a beautiful lawn in Jefferson County, AL (hint: it isn't triple 13) and Margaret Tanner, deputy director of Environmental Services, explains why over fertilization is bad for the environment and the sewer system -- costing us millions. Important links:Alabama Cooperative Extension System - Lawn and Garden articles Soil Testing - Alabama Cooperative Extension ServiceMaster Gardner Hotline - 1-877-ALA-GROW (252-4769)Have an idea for a County podcast? Contact the Director of Public Information, Helen Hays at haysh@jccal.org

Jefferson County 2024 Household Hazardous Waste Day Spring Collection event is back by popular demand this Saturday April 13th from 8am to 11:30am at THREE locations:First Baptist Church Gardendale - South, 940 Main Street, Gardendale, AL 35071Classic Car Motoring, 3900 Grants Mill Road, Irondale, AL 35210City of Bessemer Public Works Laydown Yard, 1205 15th Avenue North, Bessemer, AL 35020Hana Berres, with the Stormwater Department stopped by briefly to share with us the importance of the communities participation and how the disposing of hazardous wastes properly affects our safety. For more details including the list of items that will be accepted and additional information log on to jccal.org or check our upcoming events on our Facebook page for the flyer.Have an idea for a County podcast? Contact the Director of Public Information, Helen Hays at haysh@jccal.org

In today's episode of Jefferson County's Podcast for the People, meet Jeff Traywick, Economic Development Advisor for Jefferson County as he breaks down the State of Economic Development for Jefferson County, how Jefferson County has resurfaced since the COVID-19 pandemic and details of the 5 year Economic Development plan that is currently in the works for Jefferson County! Have an idea for a County podcast? Contact the Director of Public Information, Helen Hays at haysh@jccal.org

Margaret Tanner, Deputy Director in Jefferson County's Environmental Services Department stopped by Jefferson County's Podcast for the People to give valuable information, insight on career advancement and specific details on the Water Reclamation Facility Operator Apprenticeship position where applications are currently being accepted.Learn all about how securing a job as a Water Reclamation Facility Operator Apprentice can set the path for a rewarding career in Environmental Services including gaining the knowledge and skills that will help scale competitive pay in any similar field across the nation.Minimum Qualifications are High School Diploma and Driver's License. Also, current High School Seniors with an interest in biology, chemistry and math are also encouraged to prepare now and apply as the position will not begin until the latter part of May 2024. Log on to www.jobsquest.org or call 205-325-5249.Have an idea for a County podcast? Contact the Director of Public Information, Helen Hays at haysh@jccal.org

With primary elections just around the corner, now is the time to make sure you are voter ready. In this episode we talk to Chairman of the Jefferson County Board of Registrars about what people need to know and where they can check their information. Pro Tip: visit Alabama Votes or our website jccal.org for helpful links. Have an idea for a County podcast? Contact the Director of Public Information, Helen Hays at haysh@jccal.org

In this episode of Jefferson County's Podcast for the People, Jefferson County's Information Technology Security Officer, Cedric Norfleet, Jr. discusses crucial tips on how to prevent against the phishing which is a fraudulent practice used by sending emails or other messages from scammers pretending to be reputable companies such as retailers (Amazon, Target, etc.)  in order to make individuals reveal personal information such as passwords and credit card numbers.Top Three Preventative Tips against the Dangers of Phishing1. Do NOT click on any suspicious links - Phishing emails usually come with double letters and misspelled words. If you are unsure about an email, go to companies website and verify. It does NOT hurt to leave a link unopened. 2. Do NOT disclose sensitive information - Most times phishing emails will tell you that the message is URGENT and could result in outcome beyond your control. 3. Verify the legitimacy of emails and calls - Be aware of these tactics used in an attempt to steal information from you including your consent through AI generated voice measures (vishing). If you receive an email or phone call requesting sensitive information or immediate action, independently verify the request through official channels before responding.Be sure to report all phishing emails as spam and to your computer's spyware.We appreciate our Jefferson County's IT Team actively working to help enhance our security measures and providing awareness  of these threats especially among our elderly community, who can often be a target long after the holiday season.Have an idea for a County podcast? Contact the Director of Public Information, Helen Hays at haysh@jccal.org

Land Development in Jefferson County can be a long grueling process sometimes filled with disappointment when you are unaware of pre-existing challenges that could prevent projects from being approved before the Jefferson County Commission. Jefferson County Zoning Administrator Michael Morrison joins us in this episode to provide insight and tips that land developers, or those who have projects in mind, should be aware of that will same them time and resources on the front end when faced with zoning regulations.For more information contact Jefferson County Department of Development Servicesat 205-325-5321 or email contact_zoning@jccal.orgHave an idea for a County podcast? Contact the Director of Public Information, Helen Hays at haysh@jccal.org

In this episode of Jefferson County's Podcast for the People, we take a look at how the Human Resources Department is impacting the workforce by adding value to all employees who come on board with Jefferson County. Chief Human Resources Officer Melody Banks tells us about her role as she leads with a dedicated team, she also  gives us an up close look at what potential employees can expect when they apply for positions posted weekly on our social media platforms as well as how they can prepare for opportunities that open. We also learn how the HR Department is reshaping their team to increase retention within the County structure and much more! For all job openings and postings be sure to log on to www.jobsquest.org or contact 205.325.5249. Have an idea for a County podcast? Contact the Director of Public Information, Helen Hays at haysh@jccal.org

Thanksgiving in the South usually means frying something, whether its a turkey, chicken or whatever.  Dana Gray from our Environmental Services Department wants you to know there is a better way to dispose of your household cooking grease. There are 21 locations in the county where you can go pick up a free plastic container, fill it up, return it, and get another one. Our partner, Birmingham Hyde and Tallow, recycles that grease and turns it into animal feed, biofuels, and cleaning products. Doing this keeps your pipes at home from clogging up and our sewer lines from overflowing. So stop by a location today and pick up a container ahead of Thanksgiving and the holidays!Have an idea for a County podcast? Contact the Director of Public Information, Helen Hays at haysh@jccal.org

Jefferson County is getting ready to have its annual event for its veteran employees on November 9th. We talked with one of our long-time service members and Jefferson County Director of Finance, Malinda Parker, about her service and recent retirement. The emotions she experienced  when retiring from military service caught her by surprise. We also have guests, Mercy Obare our HR Division Manager and Karen McGlond, Benefits Advisor, who talk about what it can be like to retire from service at the County, and Valerie Nealy in our recruiting office talks about the County's Veteran event. There is a lot to unpack in this episode -- especially for our employees. Have an idea for a County podcast? Contact the Director of Public Information, Helen Hays at haysh@jccal.org

BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND the Household Hazardous Waste Event will take place on Saturday October 21, 2023 from 8am - 11:30am at two locations: Camp Bessemer, 3295 King Street, 35023 and Camp Ketona, 121 County Shop Road, 35217. Learn all about what you can bring out to properly dispose of and help save our environment! For more information call 205-325-8741.**********************************************************************************************2024 Household Hazardous Waste Event Schedule January 27, 2024 – Electronic and paper shredding 9am-11:30am Birmingham Zoo,  2630 Cahaba Rd, Birmingham, AL 35223April 13, 2024 – HHW 8am – 11:30am HHW spring event; three locations First Baptist Church Gardendale-South Location-940 Main Street, Gardendale, 35071  Classic Car Motoring-3900 Grants Mill Road, Irondale, 35210 City of Bessemer Public Works Laydown Yard-1205 15th Avenue North, Bessemer, 35020  May 11, 2024 - Electronic and paper shredding 9am-11:30am Jefferson County Center Point Satellite Courthouse 2651 Center Point Parkway, 35215  June 8, 2024 - Electronic and paper shredding 9am-11:30am Jefferson County Valley Water Reclamation Facility 3295 Clear Water Drive 35023 October 19, 2024 - HHW 8am – 11:30am HHW event; two locations  Camp Bessemer, 3295 King Street, 35023 Camp Ketona, 121 County Shop Road, 35217  Have an idea for a County podcast? Contact the Director of Public Information, Helen Hays at haysh@jccal.org

Dr. Frederick Hamilton, Jefferson County Director of Community Services, walks us through the process of the Community Development Block Grant and the eligibility requirements according to federal regulations.How do you apply for the county's CDBG funds. To apply for the county's CDBG funds you can attend one of the Department's Open Season meetings. The meetings schedule is presented below: October 10, 20236:00 p.m. November 2, 20236:00 p.m. December 5, 202310:00 a.m. Note:  You must pre-register to attend the meeting with the Department of Community Services no later than 12:00 noon by emailing ShaDel Nix Willaims at nixs@jccal.org or by calling 205-325-5761 Ext. 1926.    Have an idea for a County podcast? Contact the Director of Public Information, Helen Hays at haysh@jccal.org

In this episode we talk with Melissa Sizemore with the Jefferson County EMA about what you need to be prepared for severe weather (hint: we are about to enter another busy season). She emphasizes it doesn't have to cost much. There are also many resources on the EMA website like signing up for Everbridge alert notices and getting a map to local shelters when a severe weather outbreak happens. Have an idea for a County podcast? Contact the Director of Public Information, Helen Hays at haysh@jccal.org

Scott Moore, Director of the Department of Revenue gives us an update on the changes with how we receive tag renewal notices starting in July 2023. Learn all about those changes and the best measures to ensure your tags are renewed on time.

David Denard Director of Environmental Services joins us to discuss in depth information about the current state of our sewer system and how the entire system is on the mend and how we all can contribute to its overall sustainability. 

Every year around the end of June -- when the State gives approval for the notices to be sent, the Board of Equalization sends out its annual property valuations. Once a property owner receives that notice, they have 30 days to file a protest. Maria Knight, Chairman of the BOE, joins us along with members of her team, David Ogden, Property Appraiser Manager, and Mason Smith, Senior Appraiser. They explain how these values are arrived at (formula provided by State), how you can protest, and what you need to bring to a protest. For more information visit the BOE website here, or call them at 205-325-5566.

We continue our video and podcast series on 'How They Serve' (and 'Why They Serve') to highlight Jefferson County Employees' remarkable dedication and responsibilities in serving all citizens daily, including their passion behind what they do.Newly appointed, Director of Roads and Transportation for Jefferson County Commission, Chris Nicholson, took on his journey in public service as an engineer  for various municipalities within Jefferson County before serving with the County Commission. Chris also breaks down the Roads and Transportation Department's responsibilities and even gives insight on projects slated for this year. 

There are now 2 tax exemptions you can claim if you are over 65 in Jefferson County! Tax Assessor Gaynelle Hendricks explains the difference between the 2 exemptions and how you can claim them. This is a quick listen at under 10 minutes but will help explain this new exemption and how to claim it. The deadline for this year has been extended until the end of April. For more information please visit webpage (click here) or call their office at (205) 325-5506. 

We continue our video and podcast series on 'How They Serve' (and 'Why They Serve') to highlight Jefferson County Employees' remarkable dedication and responsibilities in serving all citizens daily, including their passion behind what they do.Newly appointed, Director for the Department of Revenue for Jefferson County Commission, Wesley 'Scott' Moore, took on his 34-year journey serving the citizens of Jefferson County and the practices he used to elevate in leadership, education and overall work ethic consistently.

Jefferson County Coroner, Dr. Greg Davis, Chief Deputy Coroner, Bill Yates, and Dr. Darlene Traffanstedt, Medical Director from the Jefferson County Department of Health join us to talk about the alarming trend in overdose deaths due to fentanyl laced drugs. They explain the numbers, where this is happening in Jefferson County, the shift in demographics and discuss resources listed below. * Free naloxone and fentanyl test strips available to anyone in the state of Alabama at our website www.jcdh.org/naloxone* Community organizations that wish to discuss overdose prevention and education training can call our team at 205-930-1065 or email at naloxonetraining@jcdh.org* 24/7 Substance Use Helpline 1-844-307-1760* Recovery Resource Center 205-458-3377* Parents can go to www.apcbham.org or DEA's One Pill Can Kill website for information on how to talk to their children* Substance use treatment options can be found on the Connect Alabama App or findtreatment.gov

Did you get a new TV, computer, coffee pot, or whatever for Christmas? Here's how and when to dispose of old electronics and paper on Jan. 28 at the Birmingham Zoo. Hana Berres, education training coordinator, for our Stormwater Program talks about what you can bring to this FREE event. Every electronic item is recycled and paper is shredded on site. We also have 3 community cleanups on MLK Day and Hana explains why these events are so important and how you can get one in your community. If you have questions please contact the department at 205-325-8741. And, additional information can always be found on our Keep It Clean JeffCo page! #keepitcleanjeffco. 

Jefferson County environmental services is transitioning to a new more modern sewer billing software, much like other utilities use. In this podcast we explain the transition timeline, who it affects (not those who get their bills from BWWB), and what customers will be asked to do. If you want to receive your paper bill, you can, but if you opt in for the new billing system you will get a lot more detail on your bill, you billing history and ease of online payment. If you have questions, you can call ESD Monday - Friday at 205-325-5390. We've also created a special FAQ on our website with details. Click here. 

Our Veteran's Committee has an event this week for our employees that are Veterans and we took a few minutes to talk to an employee from each branch of service about how their service carries over into their position at the county. We have the Army, Navy, Marines, and Air Force all represented. And, the conversation gets a little lively when we talk about "the best" branch. Hint, you really need them all! Thank you to Akirashanti Byrd (Tax Collector Office), John Sepulveda (Deputy Director at Youth Detention), Darrick Williams (Chief Administrative Analyst, Human Resources), Don Carroll (Assistant County Attorney) and Alan Sconiers (Jefferson County Compliance Office)

The Board of Equalization is responsible for valuing fair and equitably all taxable real property in Jefferson County, to notify tax payers of valuation increases and to hear and decide protests and to defend established values in court. In this episode we talk with Maria Knight, Chairman of the Board of Equalization on "Why she Serves" in her role with Jefferson County and the importance of her department and position. For more information the Board of Equalization or any questions regarding your property log on to www.boe.jccal.org, email boe@jccal.org  or call 205-325-5566 Mon-Fri from 8am to 5pm. 

The Jefferson County Commission recently approved over $1.4 million in federal dollars allocated to Jefferson State Community College and the Dannon Project for Occupational Training and Work Based Learning Programs with our Office of Workforce Development.The programs, which also involve character and leadership development, are geared to train and engage students in occupational skills ranging from the broad fields of healthcare to information  technology. The occupational training programs also provide opportunities for students to earn national certifications such as welding technician to nursing assistant, and many others.The goal of both organizations is to provide occupational skills training which leads to enrollment in further education or full time employment. Administrators began accepting applications on July 1, 2022 and will continue through June 30, 2023.For the program year 2022, as required by the Workforce and Innovation Opportunity Act (WIOA), Central Alabama Partnership for Training and Employment (CAPTE) submitted regional advertisements for request for proposals for out of school youth training programs. As a result, responses were received from  Jefferson State Community College  and The Dannon Project. How to Apply: For more information on how you can apply for Jefferson State Community College's Work Based Learning and Occupational Training Programs contact Tamara Cheeks at tcheeks@jeffersonstate.edu or  205) 856-6038.**Special Thanks to Tamara Payne - Director of Career and Learning Services and Leah Bigbee - Director of Center for Workforce Education at Jefferson State Community College for participating this enlightening podcast interview.Jefferson County Podcast for the People -Episode 8 Jeff State Work Based Learning and Occupational Skills Training Programs equips students for job readiness opportunities - Learn How to Apply today!Chiara Morrow -  Show Host/Producer - Public Relations Coordinator, Public Information Office - Jefferson County Commission Helen Hays - Director of Public Information, Public Information Office - Jefferson County Commissionwww.jccal.org

Apply for the Jefferson County Skilled Worker position at www.jobsquest.org. The deadline to apply is August 12, 2022

Many of you participated in our Citizen Survey earlier this year. There was an open comment section on that survey and we wanted to respond to some of your comments and questions with actual information that might help. In this podcast we talk about the County website jccal.org, the number to the County Manager's office (205)731-2880, and online services list and How Do I? page. The comments were valuable feedback and the Office of Public Information is going to work to implement some of your suggestions in the coming year. 

Applications are now being accepted for the 2022 Water Reclamation Facility Operator Apprentice Program at Jefferson County. You can apply online at www.jobsquest.org, call for more information at 205-325-5249, or email careers@jccal.org. Program benefits include: paid on the job training; advanced pay structure based on certification completion; paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays; paid books and training material; lab exposure; excellent growth opportunities; eligible for medical, dental, and vision benefits. Application deadline is June 15th!The Jefferson County Commission will not discriminate against apprenticeship applicants or apprentices based on RACE, COLOR, RELIGION, NATIONAL ORIGIN, SEX (INCLUDING PREGNANCY AND GENDER IDENTITY), SEXUAL ORIENTATION, GENETIC INFORMATION, OR BECAUSE THEY ARE AN INDIVIDUAL WITH A DISABILITY OR A PERSON 40 YEARS OLD OR OLDER.Jefferson County Commission will take affirmative action to provide equal opportunity in apprenticeship and will operate the apprenticeship program as required under Title 29 of the Code of Federal Regulations, part 30.

It's been almost a year since Jefferson County launched its COVID-19 Emergency Rental Assistance Program. We talk with Nathan Salter in Workforce Development about what assistance has been provided, what funding is still available and about ERAP 2, which is coming down the road. As a reminder, details can be found on our website at: erap.jccal.org and if you have questions, you can contact one of our partner agencies at Birmingham Urban League at 205-326-0162, Neighborhood Housing Services of Birmingham at 205-328-4292, or Bridge Ministries at 205-930-0309. 

This is a quick 5 minute listen on a new STEM internship program the County is starting. Applications will open on March 21 on jobsquest.org. If you are a college student and interested in a career in IT or Civil Engineering, this maybe for you. These are paid internship positions that will start this June. 

Why can't the county fix my drainage issue? Why hasn't the County paved my road? Why doesn't the county pave the Interstate?  Here is a look at what the County can and can't do vs. cities with the Confidential Assistant to the County Manager Justin Smith. Justin has been with the County for more than 10 years. We break down some of the common questions we get, what departments fall under the County vs. State and what organizations sound like they are County related, but aren't. It's a quick 20 minutes. 

Today we talk with Sharon Gadbois, public affairs specialist, with the SBA Disaster Loan assistance program. If you experienced damaged in the Oct. 6-7 storms/flooding the deadline is approaching for you to apply for help. They have an office open in the Boardroom at the Hoover Rec center (open Mon-Friday 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.) or you can call 1-800-659-2955 to get help and more information. You can also apply online at https://disasterloanassistance.sba.gov/ela/s/. We talk about what you need to apply, what the loans cover and what the interest and payback time frame is. Take a few minutes and listen if you need help. 

Quick interview with Melissa Sizemore from the Jefferson County EMA on what the recent FEMA declaration means for individuals and households who live in Jefferson and Shelby counties and were affected by the severe storms and flooding that occurred Oct. 6-7.  FEMA may be able to help with temporary housing expenses, basic home repairs, or other essential disaster-related needs that are not covered by insurance. Residents can apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling 800-621-3362 - 6 a.m. to midnight Central Time, or by using the FEMA mobile app. Lines are open daily from 6 a.m. to midnight Central Time and multilingual staff are available. There is a 60-day window to apply. You can read the entire news release by clicking here. 

The Jefferson County Revenue Dept. handles car tags, houses driver's license offices for the state, boat registrations and more. We talked with Tracie Swanson, the business office supervisor for the department and walked through their frequently asked questions including how to get a Star ID. We cover a lot in about 15 minutes and the PIO learned a thing or two. Helpful links in this podcast:online driver's license renewal: https://www.alea.gov/node/172online tag renewal: https://tagit.jccal.org/Home/Requirementstitle replacement request: https://title.mvtrip.alabama.govPhone numbers for Revenue offices: Main courthouse: 205-325-5171Bessemer courthouse: 205-481-4110Centerpoint satellite: 205-714-7175Hoover satellite: 205-497-8976Northern satellite (Gardendale): 205-909-3610

Three different offices are involved in Property Taxes. We brought them all together to explain the process. Board of Equalization: Evaluates property according to state laws and sends notices to residents about changes in property valuation. Contact: BOE@jccal.org or call, Bham office at 205-325-5566 or Bessemer office at 205-481-4120.Tax Collector: Send tax notices and collects property tax payments. Contact: 205-325-5500.Tax Assessor: Can help with tax exemptions if you are over 65 and/or medically disabled.  Contact: Bham office at 205-325-5505; Bessemer office at 205-481-4126.Link to the BOE website: https://www.jccal.org/Default.asp?ID=245&pg=Board+of+Equalization

Quick interview with Alan Sconiers, Equity and Inclusion Business Parter with Jefferson County and Michael Matthews, Purchasing Agent with Jefferson County about the benefits of being a Veteran and working for the County. During this month, and in honor of Veteran's Day, Jefferson County has displayed the pictures of County Veterans and family members of employees that are Veteran's for all to see on the second floor of the courthouse outside of Commission Chambers. A reminder that the County will be closed on Nov. 11th for Veteran's Day and here is a link to the Veteran's Parade in downtown Birmingham (Click Here for Details) If you want to contact Mr. Sconiers for details on the Jeffco Veteran's committee email him at sconiersa@jccal.org or call 205-214-4005. 

On Oct. 6, 2021 Jefferson County and neighboring communities experienced an unprecedented flooding event with approximately 10 inches of rain falling within a matter of hours. This resulted in flash flooding in many areas. The Jefferson County Emergency Management Agency has established a damage assessment portal, where homeowners and businesses can report sustained damages by Oct. 18, 2021.  The form can be accessed at www.jeffcoema.org/damageportal. This is not a substitute for submitting a claim through insurance and this submission does not guarantee federal, state or local reimbursement, or financial assistance. If you provide contact information, you will be contacted if federal assistance becomes available. If you have questions email the EMA at: emainfo@jccal.org. 

We are now live-streaming all planning and zoning meetings, but we wanted to take a deeper dive into the process, how long it can take, and tips for those coming before the planning and zoning commission. If you ever need to reach the staff of planning and zoning you can call Development Services at 205-325-5321 or email contact_zoning@jccal.org and someone will answer your question. 

If you are an employee of Jefferson County this podcast is for you! Nakia Bucker Benefits Advisor for Jefferson County joins us. If you are not an employee, but have applied for a job with the County, you may be interested in hearing more details about our benefits and how great they are. Open enrollment is Sept. 1 - Sept. 14. Even if you don't think you have changes log-in and check for: changes to beneficiaries, flexible spending accounts (you have to re-enroll every year) and life insurance coverage. If you have questions on anything, contact benefits at benefits@jccal.org or call 205-325-5249 Option 4. There are friendly people standing by to help you. 

In this episode we talk to Hana Berres, education training coordinator for Jefferson County Development Services and Debbie Blackburn, a volunteer clean-up coordinator. Hana (who is still battling upper and lower respiratory issues from COVID-19) explains why Jefferson County supports community clean-ups and Debbie talks about what it has done for her community. If you are interested in scheduling one call 205-325-8741. If you want to volunteer visit jccal.org (news boxes, volunteer cleanups) to see the ones coming up. We also share these events on the County Facebook and Next-door pages along with all of our Electronic Recycling days and Hazardous Waste Disposal day. Hana also talks about the County's Grease Recycling program, a map of locations and details can be found here. We didn't get into illegal dumping, that will be another podcast, but you can call and report it at 205-582-6555.

We spent about 30 minutes talking to Dr. Mark Wilson, Chief Medical Officer of the Jefferson County Dept. Health. He explains its organizational structure, who he reports too, and provides a lot of details on our vaccination rates, why Jefferson County is red right now, and addresses common concerns people may have about getting the vaccine. If you are on the fence, we hope you will give it a listen.