Protesters Barred from Water Board Meeting, Layoffs Spark Outrage

0:00You're listening to Birmingham News today, powered by the Daily News now. Tensions board over Friday at a Central Alabama Water Board meeting when dozens of people, including former employees and local leaders, were turned, away because all 24 seats were taken. Protesters gathered outside, upset over recent layoffs, and being shut out of the public utility discussion. Officials say board leaders had employees leave their workstations from 9 a.m. to 12 15 p.m. just to fill those seats and keep the public from getting in. Even public figures like the mayor, city council members, and a state representative were denied entry. Former workers voiced strong frustration, saying the firings hurt families and that rate payers deserve access to these meetings. Jefferson County Commissioner Sheila Tyson, the only official to engage the crowd, called the actions disrespectful and slam new CEO Jeff. Thompson's moves since he started four months ago. Protesters waited by the gates to confront board members face to face as they left, determined

1:02to make their concerns personal. They plan more demonstrations to demand the board listens. Meanwhile, Birmingham leaders are stepping in to help laid off employees with job openings like mechanics, engineers, and firefighters plus a job. Fair Monday from 10 a.m. to noon at the Career Center. The push for accountability continues as the community watches closely.