Helena Residents Face Potential Water and Sewer Rate Increases
Residents of Helena, Alabama, may soon see an increase in their water and sewer bills. The Helena Utility Board announced a proposed adjustment to rates on , with any changes slated to take effect in .
Alabama Lawmakers Advance Camp Safety Bill Following Emotional Testimony
In Montgomery, Alabama lawmakers have moved a camp safety bill forward after hearing compelling testimony from the mother of Sarah Marsh, a young girl who tragically died last summer. The bill, known as The Sarah Marsh Heaven’s 27 Camp Safety Act, is sponsored by Representative David Faulkner, R-District 46.
The legislation stems from the devastating loss of Sarah and 26 others who perished when floodwaters engulfed Camp Mystic in Kerr County, Texas, last July. According to Representative Faulkner, the bill would mandate that all camps establish and maintain an evacuation plan, and would specifically prohibit the construction of cabins in flood plains.
During the committee hearing, Dr. Jill Marsh shared her grief and urged lawmakers to pass the bill. “Thank you for letting me be here. My name is Jill Marsh. And I’m going to make it through this,” she said, visibly emotional. She described her daughter, Sarah, as a kind, enthusiastic, and adventurous eight-year-old who loved meeting new people and growing in her faith.
“The greatest joy and honor of my life is getting to be John and Sarah’s mom. Sarah was the most kind, welcoming, enthusiastic, and fun eight-year-old little girl you’d ever meet. If you had the privilege of knowing Sarah, she’d somehow make you feel like you were her favorite person in the world.” – Dr. Jill Marsh
Dr. Marsh recounted how Sarah had been excitedly anticipating her first camp experience just months before the tragedy. “Seven months and seven days ago, Sarah died in a flood while at camp in Texas. Her body washed almost 20 miles downstream. She died along with 26 other precious daughters, sisters, and friends. Heaven’s 27…” she stated.
Representative Faulkner believes the requirements outlined in the bill will prevent future tragedies and serve as a lasting legacy for Sarah. He shared his sentiments on social media, stating that the passage of the bill was “one of the most meaningful days of this legislation session.” The bill passed unanimously out of the House State Government Committee.
Other News from Around Alabama
In other news from across the state, the Hanceville City Council is considering dissolving its police department. The University of Alabama has unveiled a plan to address the nursing shortage.
Separately, two individuals were struck by a vehicle in Bessemer and transported to UAB Hospital with injuries, according to WBRC.
Birmingham also recently approved $1 million in funding for an expansion of the Jimmie Hale Mission, a project designed to provide shelter and support services to individuals and families experiencing homelessness. The funding will be provided at $250,000 per year over four years.
