The City of Decatur has released the findings of a third-party review of its police department. The review was conducted by Green Research and Technology, and overall highlighted communication failure, improper action, ineffectiveness due to misuse of software and unprofessionalism or lack of empathy exhibited by certain officers. WHNT TV reports the review found that though the department’s policies are consistent with national standards and best practices because they are accredited, there are instances where DPD acted improperly during arrests or in ways that negatively impacted the community.
Less than a year after the Alabama Legislature limited diversity, equity and inclusion programs within state agencies and public education institutions, the city of Huntsville has changed the name of its DEI office. The Council changed the name to the Office of Multicultural Affairs. Huntsville District 3 Councilwoman Jennie Robinson, who cosponsored the action with District 1 Councilwoman Michelle Watkins, tells AL.com the change was needed to accurately reflect what the office does for the city.
Alabama State Rep. Marilyn Lands has introduced House Bill 89, the Alabama Maternal Health Care Act. The legislation will allow the presumptive eligibility for pregnant women for Medicaid. AL.com reports the bill has bipartisan support. Lands introduced a similar bill last legislative session but said it did not have time to go through the legislative process.
Alabama’s infants and toddlers are falling short of thresholds needed to fight off all-but-eradicated diseases, such as measles. That’s according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Alabama Department of Public Health. AL.com reports that statewide, the vaccination rate for children between 19 and 47 months dropped from around 71% in October 2021 to just 65% last November, the last date for which monthly data was available from ADPH. That’s about 13,700 more unvaccinated toddlers in the state than just two years ago.
The Huntsville Zoning Board voted unanimously to deny a sober living facility’s application to move into a south Huntsville neighborhood. The building on Bailey Cove Road is now a space for groups to host retreats. WAFF TV reports the owner turned to a sober living organization because the space wasn’t being used that often. Leaders from Bradford Health Services stressed that this was not a medical facility and no rehab services would be provided. No members of the zoning board brought forward a motion to approve.
The application period for the Governor’s Office Summer Internship Program is now open. This nine-week program offers college students an opportunity to gain firsthand experience in state government, while working alongside professionals in the executive branch. Eligible applicants must be current college students with a strong interest in public service and government. The Alabama Political Reporter notes the internship will run from May 26 through July 25. The deadline to apply is March 21 by close of business. For more information about the program and how to apply, visit governor.alabama.gov.
Due to popular demand, Arts Huntsville is expanding its City Hall Public Art Tours. Beginning in February, the program will shift to "First Fridays," offering tours on the first Friday of each month (excluding July 4th) at 4:30 pm. These free, docent-led tours will explore the "Our Civic Canvas" collection, a special exhibition within the City of Huntsville's "Amazing Spaces" public art collection. Reservations are required and can be made at the Arts Huntsville website. For more information, visit artshuntsville.org or follow Arts Huntsville on social media.