What is a Neighborhood Association?

Birmingham has 99 neighborhood associations and 23 communities recognized by the city. The framework was established in 1974 through the Citizen Participation Plan (CPP), which gives residents a structured voice in city decisions and connects neighborhood-level input to federal funding under 24 CFR 91.105.

Each association covers a defined geographic area. Residents who live within those boundaries can join, vote, and run for office.

Every association has officers — typically a President, Vice President, Secretary, and Treasurer — elected by the residents of the neighborhood. Some neighborhoods also have committee chairs (Zoning, Events, Communications) who handle specific areas.

The Citizen Resource Services Division (CRS) at City Hall supports all 99 associations with templates, training, and coordination. CRS staff are your liaison to the city.

Hold monthly meetings to discuss neighborhood concerns: traffic, zoning, events, crime, infrastructure. Vote on positions to take when the city asks for input on a development or rezoning.

Many associations also have a companion 501(c)(3) foundation that handles fundraising, grants, and donations — keeping money matters separate from the formal civic structure.