How Birmingham, Alabama Is Balancing Economic and Health Crises

Mayor Randall Woodfin discusses Birmingham's approach to balancing health and economic crises amid COVID-19. With Alabama reporting 8,000 cases and 300 deaths, the city plans to reopen with safety measures like mandatory face masks. Small businesses express concerns about consumer behavior and the PPP program's accessibility. Birmingham faces budget challenges due to revenue loss and explores liquidity options to maintain services and employment.

What is the primary reason for requiring face masks in public during the reopening phase?

• To increase retail sales

• To prevent community spread

• To comply with federal laws

• To reduce healthcare costs

What percentage of Birmingham residents feel unsafe leaving their homes to shop?

• 90%

• 70%

• 50%

• 30%

Why did minority-owned businesses struggle to benefit from the PPP program initially?

• No existing relationship with SBA lenders

• Limited business operations

• Lack of interest in the program

• High application fees

What is Birmingham's projected loss in annual revenue due to the pandemic?

• 20-25%

• 10-15%

• 25-30%

• 35-40%

What is one of the strategies Birmingham is considering to manage its budget deficit?

• Reducing police force

• Implementing hiring freezes

• Increasing sales taxes

• Expanding city services