HOOVER — An impromptu special meeting to consider how to proceed with negotiations for an incentive package on the second phase of Stadium Trace Village in Hoover could not proceed on Friday, as not enough council members showed up at the 1:30 p.m. meeting to vote.
The Hoover City Council was supposed to consider whether or not to return Hoover Mayor Frank Brocato and the city's economic development manager Greg Knighton's authority in the negotiations with Broad Metro, but since three of the seven council members attended the meeting, the meeting concluded.
Council president John Lyda, Councilwoman Khristi Driver and Councilman Casey Middlebrooks were the only members present. Missing from the meeting were Councilmen Curt Posey, Sam Swiney, Derrick Murphy and Steve McClinton, meaning there was not a majority in attendance.
According to McClinton, there was no need for Friday's impromptu meeting because the council voted on Monday to continue the matter until its next scheduled meeting on April 15.
"The resolution was very simple," Lyda told reporters upon conclusion of the called meeting. "It was going to be asking for a vote on whether or not to continue negotiations with Broad Metro, and unfortunately, we didn't get to make that decision."
Lyda said the purpose of the meeting was to debate the resolution.
"[W]e have to show up to do our jobs," he lamented.
Lyda added, "The purpose of today was to take that next step in figuring out how to move forward."
The council president was asked what was next in the ongoing saga.
"I mean, we can try again, but until folks decide to show up and do their jobs, we're going to have a hard time," he replied.
On Monday, Lyda, seemingly out of nowhere, revealed that Broad Metro president William Kadish was a convicted felon and said he didn't want to do business with him, even though the offense took place over twenty years ago.
Kadish likened the non-meeting to a "victory."
"Although it's unusual for a non-quorum to feel like a victory, I'm excited to meet with members of the community and address any concerns they may have. We've been meticulous in our planning to ensure that our development enhances rather than harms the community. I'm genuinely looking forward to these discussions and the opportunity to collaborate for the betterment of our community. Additionally, I'd like to express my gratitude to the council for their dedication to doing what is right. The meeting scheduled for Walk-Ons at 6pm on Monday marks the first of several planned meetings and discussions with the community. This meeting is specifically for Trace Crossings residents. Looking forward to seeing everyone there!"
On Friday, McClinton pointed to Hoover Mayor Frank Brocato's "evident dislike" for Kadish and said negotiations were "unrealistic."
"This resolution effectively strips the council of its authority to approve the current deal," McClinton told 1819 News. "Given the mayor's evident dislike for Kadish, expecting him to negotiate is unrealistic. However, it's crucial to remember that the mayor still requires our approval, subject to possible amendments."
"Furthermore, it's worth noting that the neighbors who attended Monday's meeting will be discussing their plans with Broad Metro on Monday. Let's adhere to the original agreement and reconvene in 10 days as requested by the Council, as altering the terms now seems like moving the goalposts, in my opinion," he added.
Part of the Stadium Trace Village Phase 2 development is the proposed Hoover Performing Arts Center. In 2023, that $17 million was dedicated for the Performing Arts Center out of a then-$93 million bond issue. At stake is a $30 million incentive package for the project.
Phase 2 also was going to alleviate some traffic issues in the area and solve issues for nearby neighborhoods.
Jefferson County Commission president Jimmie Stephens told 1819 News that both sides needed to "set their personalities aside" and "work together for a project that would benefit the citizens of Hoover and the entire Hoover area."
"My hopes and desires are that they will set their personalities aside - both parties - and work together for a project that would benefit the citizens of Hoover and the entire Hoover area," he stated.
"This has gone on and been a contentious project for too long," Stephens added. "It's time that we resolved it one way or the other."
To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email trent.baker@1819news.com.
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