Huntsville Embarks on $350M Mill Creek Redevelopment Project
The City of Huntsville and the Huntsville Housing Authority have secured a significant $50 million Choice Neighborhood Implementation (CNI) Grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). By Laura
Boehringer
- Page 5
EDUCATION
UAH Embarks on $216 Million Transformation of Executive Plaza Site
The University of Alabama in Huntsville (UAH) is taking the next step in campus revitalization with the university’s most ambitious project to date. By Gus Wintzell - Page 6
ADDITIONAL STORIES
• Space & Missile Defense Symposium to Showcase Latest Tech and Trends in Space and Missile Defense By Heather Alfonso • Page 8
• Summertime Months Approach Record Setting Power Load Demands for TVA By Noah Logan • Page 17
• Alabama June Monthly Report Indicates Brisk Activity By Marie Johson • Page 18
COVER STORY
Bank Independent Named #1 Bank in Alabama by Forbes
Among recent expansions and achievements, Bank Independent has been named the top bank in Alabama by Forbes.
This accolade is based on the bank’s ability to deliver quality customer service and fostering community growth.
Rick Wardlaw, CEO of Bank Independent, expressed pride in the recognition, attributing it to the hard work and commitment of the bank’s team members.
“Being named the top bank in Alabama by Forbes reflects our team’s dedication and effort. Our primary goal has always been to build strong, lasting relationships with our customers and communities. This award motivates us to continue aiming to be the preferred bank and employer in the areas we serve,” Wardlaw stated.
For the seventh annual ranking, Forbes collaborated with market research firm Statista to survey around
26,000 U.S. residents.
These participants identified banks and credit unions where they held accounts and those known through friends and family. The survey assessed satisfaction levels, willingness to recommend, and rated institutions based on customer service, financial advice quality, fee structures, digital service navigation, branch assistance, and trust.
The evaluation considered survey responses from the last three years, giv-
By: Gus Wintzell / Photos courtesy of Bank Independent
to
Statista also reviewed online text reviews and ratings from February 2021 to March 2024, which contributed 20% to the overall score, while the surveys made up the remaining 80%.
Out of all the financial institutions
evaluated, 185 banks and 207 credit unions were ranked across various states.
Founded in 1947, Bank Independent operates 33 traditional Sales Offices throughout North Alabama, in addition to operating a Deshler Tiger Branch and a Digital Sales Office. w
ing more weight
recent feedback from current customers.
A Conversation with Pat Pullman of Modern Brides
Sit Down With Success is a feature of the Huntsville Business Journal on entrepreneurs and their keys to success. To read the full story, please visit the Huntsville Business Journal website.
Pat Morgan Pullam opened Modern Brides, a Huntsville bridal boutique, in 1986 at the age 30. It was the ninth bridal shop in Huntsville and is still located on Regal Drive, once known as “Bridal Row” for its many bridal shops.
Originally studying to be a nurse, Pullam got the idea for her bridal shop from her father, Robert Young, a part-time wedding photographer. Her brother, Greg, also in the wedding photography business, wanted a larger studio. Their father suggested combining the photo studio with a bridal shop, resulting in “the complete wedding center,” offering everything from tuxedos and floral arrangements to catering and honeymoon travel.
Over time, they focused on prof-
itable services and streamlined the business. Today, Modern Brides specializes in bridal gowns, bridal party attire, suits, tuxedos, and formals for special events, and hosts North Alabama’s largest bridal show, the Celebrations Bridal Event.
Pullam recently sat down with the Huntsville Business Journal to discuss changes in the wedding industry over nearly four decades and how she has stayed successful.
How did you keep your business relevant in the ever-changing wedding industry?
Brides would come to us to get their bridal portraits made - bridal portraits are not really something that they do a lot of anymore - and they would be talking about their bridal shop. They would just be talking, but we were listening. My dad would say, you need to learn from that. Whatever they’re saying, you need to not be that way. If they’re talking
about their service, you need to give better service. If they’re talking about the hours of the store, they don’t stay open long enough, you need to increase your hours.
I listened to his advice and would try to correct things like that. Little things like that helped shape us into being able to give good service.
What is one of your favorite things about owning your business?
I love the wedding industry. I love everything about it. Every customer is different. Every wedding you do is different, the customers are different, and their needs are different. I like meeting new people, and every day you’re meeting new people, it’s not the same bride over and over. Every year it’s a completely different set of customers.
How has the wedding industry changed?
It used to be that everybody got married in a church. You went to the church reception hall, you had
By: Heather Price
your cake, nuts, mints, and punch, and there was a big gift table. There’s nothing close to that anymore. Now you have off-site venues, and it’s going with some sort of a theme. Some people want rustic, so they’re doing the barn theme, and some people want something very elegant, so they may be doing a hotel. w
/ Photo by Heather Edstrom Photography
Dear Readers,
I want to begin my second official letter by saying thank you once again to all of our readers, subscribers, and supporters. Over my tenure at the Huntsville Business Journal, we have been read both locally and nationally. We have been read by those moving to HSV for the first time, those looking for resources to grow in the community, and we are even featured on popular national podcasts (shout out to our writer, Noah Logan). In large part, it is the continued support of our community that allows us to write stories that are worthy to be read. We very much grow with the city around us.
Another reason that we have great stories is also due to the team here at HBJ. This is by far a team effort, and I cannot take any of the credit. The work cannot be done without the writers who put their “boots on the ground” and our awesome graphic designer who constantly puts up with the fluctuating deadlines that are inherent to our industry (and to her Editor). I want to also spotlight the owners, Todd and Carolyn Stephenson. We produce informing stories and inspiring content, and it is largely because of all that Todd and Carolyn do behind the scenes. It is the team behind me that makes this business, week in and week out, a success.
The August 2024 issue is a testament to all of this. In this issue, you will find stories of development, economy, small business, and a ton of success. Recent developmental stories include multi-million dollar investments into housing and education. From the Mill Creek Development off of Governors all the way to Executive Plaza on Sparkman, the city is taking great strides to update and modernize in order to accommodate the growth and change of the city. However, it is not without necessary criticism. As I have learned during my time at HBJ, change is never an easy process, but it can be quite rewarding in the long run. Also included in this issue is information about the upcoming Municipal elections for Districts 1 and 5, respectively, that will happen on August 27. Here at HBJ, our slogan is Keeping our Readers Informed and Inspired, and we intend to do just that with this cover story. We believe that democracy, the simple power of voting, is crucial for
the growth of our beloved city. These races are extremely important, as they represent two of the largest districts in Huntsville, comprising thousands of voters, dozens of diverse industries, and powerful issues central to local voters.
As one representative of the local chapter of the National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Inc. emphasized, “We do not endorse any candidate. We are voting for and looking at the policies that directly affect our community.” We encourage our readers to utilize any and all resources available, and I would like to personally remind you all to register to vote!
Finally, I wanted to say congratulations to our sister publication, the Huntsville EVENT Magazine, for their 100th issue. A journal that has been a part of the heart and soul of the Huntsville/Madison County community for well over a decade, I am proud to have written a story on this issue. In the story, you will hear from Todd Stephenson in regards to some of the highlights of the long and influential history of EVENT Magazine.
I want to end this letter by also congratulating Lori Batfield, the Editor of EVENT Magazine, for all of the hard work that she has put into each and every issue she has been a part of. Lori has been a great source of encouragement and a resource that has helped HBJ excel since I have been here. If you have not yet, make sure to pick up a copy of Huntsville’s EVENT Magazine. Congratulations to the entire team over there at EVENT Magazine.
Best,
Gus Wintzell, Editor
President /Publisher Todd Stephenson
Editor
Writers
Contributing Writers
Gus Wintzell
Heather Alfonso
Laura Boehringer
Marie Johnson
Noah Logan
Heather Price
Sarah Zupko
Matt Curtis
Alexander Duck, II Carl Holden
Graphic Design ……………………………………………… Justina Simon
Amy Pearson
Website Jim Gharib
Photographers Steve Babin
Justina Simon
Director of Sales Carolyn Stephenson
Distribution Glenda Mace
Huntsville Business Journal is published monthly by EVENT Publishing, PO Box 14219, Huntsville, AL 35815
For advertising information call 256.533.8078, e-mail todd@eventhuntsville.com, or visit us on the web at www.huntsvillebusinessjournal.com
For editorial information contact editor@huntsvillebusinessjournal.com
Huntsville Embarks on $350M Mill Creek Redevelopment Project
The City of Huntsville and the Huntsville Housing Authority have secured a significant $50 million Choice Neighborhood Implementation (CNI) Grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).
The goal of the grant, as outlined by the City’s longterm goals, is to help transform the area surrounding Butler Terrace and Johnson Towers into a mixed-income community now known as Mill Creek.
“This project has been five years in the making, with a dream coalition of community and federal partners,” stated Mayor Tommy Battle. “We now have the opportunity to create a neighborhood that centers on residents’ needs and provides essential housing for our workforce.”
The Mill Creek redevelopment, valued at over $350 million, encompasses a 27-acre site located west of Memorial Parkway between Seminole Drive, Clinton Avenue, and Governors Drive.
The project aims to replace distressed public housing with high-quality, mixedincome housing, and introduce critical services such as healthcare, childcare, and retail options.
Tony McGinnis, Executive Director of the Huntsville Housing Authority, emphasized the project’s mission during the Wednesday morning announcement.
“This grant significantly aids our efforts to develop and preserve safe, affordable housing for all qualifying individuals and families, free from discrimination. We are eager to leverage this support to create vibrant, inclusive communities,” said McGinnis.
The project benefits from the com-
mitment of 27 partners and stakeholders, including Huntsville Hospital, which has pledged $27 million to establish 125 workforce housing units and a healthcare clinic on-site.
“The Choice Neighborhoods Initiative offers a unique opportunity to enhance healthcare access while addressing our workforce housing needs,” said Jeff Samz, CEO of Huntsville Hospital. “We are excited to be part of this transformative project.”
McCormack Baron Salazar, an urban community developer, will manage the site’s redevelopment in five phases over eight years, resulting in 705 mixedincome housing units.
Councilman Devyn Keith of Huntsville City Council District 1 was also present at the event.
“The Mill Creek project sets a new standard for neighborhoods. As Huntsville grows, we must continue to find
innovative and affordable housing solutions,” said councilman Keith.
The redevelopment will feature approximately 580 new residential units, with Huntsville Hospital contributing an additional 125 units for its staff.
The first phase, set to begin within 10-12 months, includes an 84-unit Universal Design building at Governors Drive and 1st Street, set to house current Johnson Towers residents by 2027. Subsequent phases will add senior and family housing, retail amenities, and extensive infrastructure improvements, including new streets, public art installations, and the development of Mill Creek Park.
Significant milestones include the groundbreaking of a new Food City store on Governors Drive and the upcoming Pedestrian Access and Redevelopment Corridor (PARC) project.
The PARC will feature a 1,400-foot cable suspension bridge connecting Mill Creek Park to Memorial Parkway, enhancing pedestrian and cyclist safety.
By: Laura Boehringer /
An Affordable Housing Manager will soon be appointed within the City’s Community Development Office to develop and implement strategies for affordable, secure, and sustainable housing.
The multi-phase redevelopment is expected to span approximately eight years, with various infrastructure, small business, and public art initiatives planned throughout the project timeline.
The project’s milestones are as follows:
• 2025: Small business and commercial façade renovation grants become available.
• 2026: Infrastructure improvements, including the Broglan Branch enclosure and Mill Creek Park plans.
• 2026-2027: Small business enhancement efforts begin, including workshops and credit courses.
• 2028-2030: Placemaking and public art initiatives launch, featuring sidewalk art, artistic bike racks, and murals.
• 2031: Mill Creek Park amenities, including new trails, playgrounds, and recreation areas, are installed.
• 2032: Public art installations are completed.
• 2033: Final grant report submitted to HUD, marking the project’s completion.
For more information, please visit www.huntsvilleal.gov w
Further plans involve converting the Martin Luther King Jr. building into a “Smart Space” facility with early learning classrooms, a food pantry, and recreational areas. Greenway and multiuse path connections to Brahan Spring Park and John Hunt Park are also in the works.
Photos courtesy of City of Huntsville
Pictured left to right: Jennifer L. Collins, HUD Regional Administrator for Region 4, Mayor Tommy Battle, Huntsville Housing Authority Executive Director Antonio McGinnis and District 1 City Council Member Devyn Keith pose with a $50 million check from the U.S. Department of Housing & Urban Development
UAH Embarks on $216 Million Transformation of Executive Plaza Site
The University of Alabama in Huntsville (UAH) is taking the next step in campus revitalization with the university’s most ambitious project to date.
UAH is moving forward with plans for the multi-phased development of the 58-acre Executive Plaza Development site, aiming to transform the site into a vibrant multi-use district.
The property is set to be revitalized into a signature college-town experience, featuring student housing, a UAH-anchored research building, collaborative commercial office space, and retail and entertainment options.
According to a UAH representative, the expansion will also include additional dining option, something that many UAH students have been looking forward to for years.
“The Executive Plaza property presents UAH with a unique opportunity to provide more amenities for our students, faculty, and staff. Huntsville is growing, and our university must adapt to the needs of future students”
The first-phase cost sits around $216 million with the hopeful goal
By: Gus Wintzell /
“to deepen UAH’s ties to the Huntsville community, bolster its research standings, and reinforce its leading position as a premier higher education and academic research institution in the Southeast.”
“The Executive Plaza property presents UAH with a unique opportunity to provide more amenities for our students, faculty, and staff. Huntsville is growing, and our university must adapt
to the needs of future students,” said Dr. Charles L. Karr, UAH president.
“We have partnered with Rieth Jones Advisors and PFM Financial Advisors to guide us through this exciting process. We are looking forward to adding another teammate to our group.”
UAH is seeking a master developer to partner with on this transformative initiative.
UAH is currently accepting
requests for qualifications from interested firms until mid-August, with a selection anticipated in fall 2024. Each phase of this multi-phased project requires approval from the UA System Board of Trustees.
This development follows another major campus modernization effort, with the construction of the Raymond B. Jones Engineering Building is set to begin in late 2024, pending approval from the UA System Board of Trustees.
The projects are key parts to Dr. Karr’s Project 2035 plan.
The Plan outlines its vision to become a nationally recognized leader in education, research, engagement, and campus environment.
According to UAH, the plan is driven by goals to enhance student success, research capabilities, and community engagement while promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion.
A key outcome would also be an increase in enrollment numbers, which has become somewhat of an issue nationally for colleges and universities.
Nationally, enrollment numbers have been fluctuating, and not always in the positive direction.
In the spring of 2024, undergraduate enrollment grew by 2.5% compared to the previous year, marking a second consecutive semester of
Photos courtesy of University of Alabama in Huntsville
EDUCATION
growth after years of decline during the COVID-19 pandemic.
This increase was largely driven by community college enrollment, which rose by 4.7%, according to the NSC Research Center.
However, despite recent gains, the long-term trend has been one of decline.
Since 2010, according to Mission: Graduate, undergraduate enrollment has decreased by about 8.5%. The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated this trend, with total college enrollment falling by 4% from fall 2019 to fall 2023.
Undergraduate enrollment saw a 5.6% decrease during that period, with community colleges experiencing a 12% drop.
Demographically, enrollment patterns have varied. In fall 2023, undergraduate enrollment increased among all racial groups except White and Native American students. Female student enrollment increased slightly by 0.3%, while male enrollment grew by 1.1%.
The number of students enrolled in distance education has also been notable, with a significant portion of
students at both two-year and four-year institutions participating exclusively in online courses.
The University of Alabama in Huntsville (UAH) has reported relatively stable enrollment numbers in recent years. For the academic year 2023-2024, UAH had a total enrollment of 9,237 students.
This includes 7,169 undergraduates and 2,068 graduate students.
The student body is composed of 5,333 male students and 3,904 female students. The majority of the students are enrolled full-time, with 6,587 fulltime and 2,650 part-time students.
UAH has a significant portion of its student population participating in online education. Specifically, 1,177 students are enrolled exclusively in online courses, and an additional 4,507 students are taking some online courses.
Overall, UAH maintains a smaller student population compared to other public research universities in Alabama, which typically have larger enrollments
The Huntsville Business Journal took to campus recently to discuss the upcoming expansions with students, faculty, and staff.
While some many members of the Huntsville community see promise in the latest expansion, many have reservations.
“I think that the recent expansion and Phases for upcoming campus projects are a misuse of funds. The Plaza project is a really solid long term investment into student retention and recruitment, but I am worried about the lack of current funding and the decreasing budgets for colleges across the campus,” said one member of UAH’s faculty.
During the brief interview, this individual said that tight budgets were felt across campus, affecting many diverse departments on campus.
“We have a very interesting scenario where hiring new, full-time faculty should be a priority, but budgetary strains are keeping that from happening,” said another faculty member at UAH.
Students also shared a similar feeling towards the expansion, stating the need for a more present solution to UAH problems.
“This is an exciting time to be at UAH for sure, I just won’t see any of the benefits during my time here,” said one UAH student.
Other students are feeling the economic pain of inflation and the rising cost of living, and see the Plaza expansion as a major hindrance to current growth.
“I think they could use the funding to pay their graduate students more, even the Teaching Assistants and the GTA’s. We do not make a living wage and we do not have many opportunities, according to our contracts, to get another job. The funds could be more towards improving campus quality in the present,” said another student on
campus at UAH.
However, not all students see the upcoming expansion as negative.
“I think that this is good in the long term for recruitment. Also, students have been really looking for more of a campus feel, and this is exactly the type of additions we have been asking for,” remarked a graduate student at UAH.
HBJ reached out to UAH for a response to some of these issues. Todd Barre, Vice President for Finance and Administration, emphasized the necessity for the expansion for both UAH and Huntsville as a whole.
“We know this project aims to deepen ties to the Huntsville community, bolster research standings and fortify UAH’s leading position as the premier higher education and academic research provider in Huntsville and the Southeast. Students from around the country are looking for a comprehensive research university like UAH and we know this will attract them to Huntsville,” said Barre.
The administration at UAH also emphasized that the project aims to help bolster student retention and recruitment.
“We hope that our current students will look to extend their educational journey and attend graduate school here. Our students have been asking for these types of changes to our campus. This new district will be a welcomed addition to their UAH experience,” said Barre.
For more details on the Executive Plaza development opportunity, visit UAH’s website. HBJ plans to write an update in the coming weeks, including community and staff reactions to the Executive Plaza expansion. Stay tuned for more. w
DEFENSE
Space & Missile Defense Symposium to Showcase Latest Tech and Trends in Space and Missile Defense
By: Heather Alfonso
The Space and Missile Defense Symposium returns to the Von Braun Center this August 6th through 8th.
Now in its 27th year, the threeday symposium brings together government and industry leaders in Space and Missile Defense (SMD), with over 6,000 people from the United States and allied countries expected to attend.
The symposium offers defense professionals an unparalleled opportunity to explore the latest industry updates and important advances in space and integrated air and missile defense.
Current technology solutions as well as investments in future capabilities will be highlighted.
Special events include a Technology Track, an Acquisitions Panel, a Cyber, Space, and Special Operations Panel, a Warfighter Panel, and a Small Business Showcase.
The Technology Track runs concurrently with updates from the military sector and expert panels.
The Technology Track features numerous tech companies that will present cutting-edge ideas, methods, processes, and information on cyber resiliency, testing and development, and weapon system performance testing and validation.
Several Technology Track ses-
sions will focus on the increasing capabilities and integrations of artificial intelligence (AI) in space and missile defense.
Senior leaders of government and industry organizations will speak on a number of topics.
Scheduled speakers represent several defense entities, including Missile Defense Agency, Space and Missile Defense Command, Strategic Command, U.S. Northern Command, U.S. Space Command, Army Futures Command, Army Materiel Command, and top space and missile defense industry companies.
Defense leaders including Lieutenant General Sean Gainey, General Steve Whiting, and Lieutenant General Heath Collins will share insights on the future of global security.
Attendees can get first-hand updates on the state of SMD from U.S. military officials, attend informative panels, engage with the Technology Track sessions, and peruse the expanded exhibit space to learn about the latest technological advances.
This year’s symposium features an expanded exhibit offering occupying South Hall, East Hall, and the Saturn Ballroom.
In addition to gaining insights from top SMD organizations, at-
tendees have ample opportunity to network with SMD experts.
An icebreaker reception on Monday, August 5th from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. will kick off the multiple opportunities for net-
working during the symposium. Other planned events include a Tuesday night networking event from 5:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. and a Wednesday night dinner from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
DEFENSE
After the opening welcome on Tuesday morning, attendees can choose to attend updates from the SMD, U.S. Space Command, Program Executive Office Missiles and Space, or attend the Technology Track sessions for industry presentations on the latest tech innovations.
The afternoon features a panel on Cyber, Space, and Special Operations followed by the Joint Counter-small Unmanned Aircraft Systems update, or attendees may choose another Technology Track session.
The Tuesday Networking Event starts at 5:00 p.m.
Wednesday’s schedule follows a similar pattern, with updates from the U.S. Northern Command and U.S. Army Pacific in the morning followed by the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command Senior Leader Forum and a concurrent session in the
Technology Track.
After lunch on Wednesday attendees can choose from the Industry Panel on Space and Missile Defense and Next Generation SMD panel or two Technology Track sessions.
Wednesday evening’s events start at 5:00 p.m. with an Oath of Enlistment Ceremony, VIP Reception, and then dinner at 6:30 p.m.
Thursday’s sessions include an opening welcome, updates from Rapid Capabilities and Critical Technologies Office and Marshall Space Flight Center, the Regional Warfighter Panel, and the Missile Defense Agency’s Focus on the Future from Lieutenant General Heath Collins.
Registration for the symposium is open onsite from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday and 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Tuesday through Friday or online here. w
Master the Art of Feedback: Transform Growth with the TASK Approach
Providing and receiving effective feedback is vital to personal, professional, and organizational growth, but many people struggle with delivering constructive criticism.
Whether you are conducting performance reviews, addressing problem behaviors, instructing students, or training new hires, the ability to provide necessary feedback in an effective way is very important. Good feedback presents the recipient with opportunities for personal growth and professional development.
An easy way to remember what makes up good feedback is the acronym “TASK”. Leaders, teachers, trainers, and managers should commit these four items to memory and refer to them whenever they are providing critical feedback.
Timely
The “T” for timely has a dual meaning.
By: Alex Duck
First, when you provide feedback is often equally as important as what type of feedback you provide. It benefits no one to bring up criticism about
an incident that occurred months ago or a negative behavior that has already been improved.
The sooner feedback can be pro-
vided in a calm, safe environment, the more likely it is to be effective.
The more time that passes after an incident the less relevant it feels and
the details surrounding it may become less clear as long-term memory is often unreliable. Second, expectations regarding improvements should always be tied to a timeline.
Often, when discussing performance improvement or curtailing bad behaviors, 30-day windows are used.
This sets an expiration date for when changes or improvements must be achieved by and prevents endlessly revisiting the same issue into perpetuity.
Actionable
The main difference between feedback and criticism is that the receiver of quality feedback will always be able to identify definite actions they can take going forward.
Simply telling an employee they are doing a poor job does not qualify as feedback, it is simply a criticism and does not provide them with a clear opportunity for improvement.
For example, a supervisor may tell a junior associate that they dis-
WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT
like the way they format and organize their weekly reports. With no additional details, the associate knows the supervisor would like their reports to be done differently, but has no idea how or what to change.
Effective feedback is clear about what steps should be taken next so that the receiver has a clearly indicated path toward improvement.
Specific
One of the greatest stumbling blocks when giving critical feedback is the use of generalizations, vagueness, or broad language.
Phrases like “you are always late all the time” or “you never turn in your reports on time” should be avoided, especially by human resources personnel. Instead, one should refer to specific incidents, specific behaviors, and specific metrics whenever possible.
“You have been late six times in the past 15 calendar days” is more specific and far more effective at carrying the intended message.
Next steps and future expecta-
tions should also be very specific to avoid any confusion.
The employee in this example, for instance, ought to be clearly informed about the earliest time they are allowed to clock-in and at exactly what time they are technically and officially considered late.
Kind
Some people will use honesty as an excuse to disguise malicious criticism.
“That outfit looks hideous on you,” is a very hurtful thing to say, even if it is a sincere opinion. This trend can also be observed in backhanded compliments, gossiping, and other passive-aggressive behaviors.
This is why effective feedback always takes into consideration that the intended recipient is, first and foremost, a living, breathing person with dreams, goals, family, and a life of their own.
As a fellow human being, they are deserving of kindness and compassion, even if they are a horrible employee or terrible student. Feed-
back should never be used to ridicule, degrade, or demean the recipient and if it does, it is highly unlikely to be effective as upset individuals will usually block out or dismiss all future messages.
Conclusion
Providing feedback or criticism can be a daunting task.
Nevertheless, it is an essential skill for trainers and leaders at every level of every organization. It is in our nature to assume that everything is going fine and we are doing an adequate job unless someone tells us otherwise.
This is often equally true in our interpersonal relationships as well as in the workplace.
This is why learning to provide effective feedback is considered a communications skill, as it can improve both our personal and professional relationships.
When and how you deliver feedback can be just as important as what you say, so always remember that the best feedback is TASK: timely, specific, actionable, and kind. w
Key Contests: Huntsville’s Districts Polls for City Council and
By: Sarah
On Tuesday, August 27, voters in Huntsville’s Districts 1 and 5 will head to the polls to elect their City Council Member and School Board Representative.
Elections in Districts 2, 3, and 4 operate on a staggered schedule; voters from those districts will vote in 2026.
Like all five of Huntsville’s districts, Districts 1 and 5 face unique challenges and advantages. Over the past several weeks, City Council candidates from these districts have participated in public forums where they have shared their plans for the future of their respective districts.
Below is an explainer on each of this year’s City Council candidates -- their backgrounds, as well as their stated goals and plans.
DISTRICT 1:
The City Council candidates for District 1 are Devyn Keith (incumbent), Reggie McKenzie, and Michelle Watkins.
Keith, McKenzie, and Watkins participated in a debate on June 29 at the North Huntsville Library on Sparkman Drive. Affordable housing,
the planned closing of Lakewood Elementary, infrastructure, and ethics in leadership are several topics which were covered at the event on the 29th. e
Devyn Keith
Devyn Keith, who was born and raised in Huntsville, is in his second term as City Council Member. Keith attended Samford University for his undergraduate degree and the University of Massachusetts in Boston for his master’s degree. Keith returned
to his hometown following his time in Boston. Keith has purposefully moved to several different neighborhoods within his district in an effort to more fully understand the challenges and advantages of each area. Keith is a foster parent.
Keith’s official city biography states that “reducing crime, increasing property values, investing in infrastructure and enhancing a vibrant quality of life for all of District 1 are main tenets of his vision.”
In the recent debate, Keith emphasized that he was the City Council Member who proposed and created the position of Affordable Housing Manager in Huntsville.
Keith understands calls for greater economic development in District 1, while maintaining that good schools must precede retail development.
“Retail follows rooftops,” said Keith. “In order for us to get more retail and commercial, we have to get more families. To increase that, we have to get more property value, to increase that, we have to build more homes -- the list goes on.”
Keith is working with fellow city leaders to develop plans to redevelop D1’s Stoner Park. The cornerstone of this redevelopment project will be an outdoor skating rink; $3 million has been approved for this project.
Reggie McKenzie grew up in Sylacauga, Alabama. McKenzie played football at Alabama A&M, where he graduated with a B.S. in Computer Science. McKenzie served in the nation’s armed forces for 28 years and is a retired Army Lieutenant Colonel. McKenzie has worked in the private sector as an engineer, a program manager, and a small business owner. McKenzie and his wife, Marilyn, were married for 30 years before she passed away from cancer. McKenzie is a father of four and grandfather of eight. McKenzie views economic development on North Memorial Parkway as a priority. He said he would like to see more hotels, grocery stores, and retail shopping in District 1. McKenzie believes that the health and wellness of District 1’s residents should be prioritized. McKenzie points to diabetes, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure as ailments that compromise the health of D1 residents. McKenzie has outlined his priorities in a 10-Point Plan.
If elected, McKenzie would be the first veteran to serve as District 1’s Council Member.
Reggie McKenzie
Districts 1 and 5 Head to the and School Board Elections
Sarah Zupko
Michelle Watkins grew up in Huntsville’s District 1 and has lived there throughout her life. She is a graduate of Alabama A&M. Watkins served two terms on the Huntsville City School Board, where she represented District 1. She belongs to Northwoods Community Outreach. Last year, Watkins wrote and was awarded a $50,000 grant from Facebook to teach computer coding in the Northwoods community. Watkins also serves her community through her membership in the Lions Club. She works full time for the Garrison Commander on Redstone Arsenal. Watkins lost her husband to cancer in 2023. Watkins hopes to bring economic revitalization to District 1. She identified infrastructure as the most important issue facing north Huntsville. Watkins would like to see an investment in safer, updated roads and more streetlights. Like McKenzie, Watkins sees a need for more retail development in D1. Watkins pledged that, if she is elected, she will set aside one four-hour block of time each month to take comments and questions directly from D1 constituents.
DISTRICT 5:
The City Council candidates for District 5 are Kim Caudle Lewis and John Meredith (incumbent).
Lewis and Meredith participated in a debate on July 13 at St. Luke Christian Church on Sparkman Drive. At 80 square miles, the massive
size of District 5 presents a unique challenge to its representatives. Quality of life, affordable housing amidst rapid development, and the district’s dearth of public schools are issues that command the candidates’ attention in District 5.
Kim Lewis, who hails from Triana, was born and raised in the area. Lewis is the founder of PROJECTXYZ. Lewis describes the company as “a business that provides services in technology, manufacturing, engineering to commercial and governmental customers.”
Lewis has served the community in various capacities; notably, she was the first Black woman to be elected Board Chair of the Huntsville/Madison County Chamber of Commerce. Lewis and her husband, Larry, are parents to two daughters.
At the recent debate, Lewis repeatedly stressed that she would represent all areas of District 5. She placed a special emphasis on those residents of District 5 who live in Limestone County, who she feels may often be overlooked. Lewis emphasized the need to give greater attention to the roads, public services, and public schools in District 5. She contends that the city’s plan to build another school in three to four years in District 5 is inadequate and stresses that schools in west Huntsville need much
more immediate investment.
John Meredith
Meredith was educated at Hinds Junior College, the University of Cincinnati, and Mississippi College. Meredith has a master’s degree. He spent twelve years working in Washington, D.C., where he won two national awards for his advocacy work. Meredith is the founder of Meredith Advocacy. Meredith has written about politics for statewide media outlets. Meredith’s city biography states that “he serves as the Chair of the Madison County American Red Cross Board, Chair of the Drake State Foundation Board and Advisory Board Member of Burritt on the Mountain and the Junior League.” He is married to Tina Palacios.
Meredith, the incumbent, stresses his current record of communication
with his constituents when asked what makes him the superior choice in this contest. Meredith has worked to bring amenities, such as a rec center, to District 5 which were previously lacking. Plans for the Martin Road Recreation Center have been approved by Huntsville’s City Council.
Meredith also stated that he has successfully brought public services, such as a new fire station, to District 5. Meredith and Lewis agree that affordable housing is a challenge as west Huntsville experiences rapid development.
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August 13 is the cutoff for voter registration for the August 27 election. This article is part of the Huntsville Business Journal’s ongoing coverage of the upcoming municipal election, which will be held on August 27. There are two important upcoming events for District 1 and 5, respectively. Blackburn Chapel CPCA will host the School Board District 1 Forum on Saturday, July 27, 2024 from 11:00-12:30.
District 5 will return to St. Luke Christian Church for a School Board Forum on Saturday, August 10, 2024 from 12:00-1:30.
Stay tuned over the coming weeks for additional stories online regarding future events and election results in the coming weeks.
For more information on how to vote or to check out future debates and forums, please visit advancehuntsville.com. w
Michelle Watkins
Kim Caudle Lewis
How Artificial Intelligence is Being Positively Implemented in Huntsville’s Economy
There are smart people working on AI right now in Huntsville. That’s the important fact you need to know right now. Part of what we need to do right now is recognize these efforts, share with others, and encourage colleagues and collaboration. It’s only from this kind of effort that we can continue to draw more of this work to our area and be known for AI.
This story highlights a few ways that AI is being positively implemented in our community.
Army
Pioneers AI Integration in Security Systems at Blue Grass Army Depot
To enhance military installation security, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Engineering and Support Center, Huntsville (Huntsville Center) is spearheading an initiative to integrate Artificial Intelligence at Blue Grass Army Depot in Kentucky. Leigh Young, Huntsville Center’s Electronic Security Systems Mandatory Center of Expertise lead engineer, emphasized the novelty of this approach: “We are utilizing AI for the first time in intrusion detection. We’ve used analytics on video streams previously, but using AI is more dynamic.”
Beginning on May 14th, the testing is expected to continue for another three to five years, assessing various aspects including scalability, long-term costs, and system interoperability. One of the primary goals of this AI integration is to provide real-time alerts and detailed information during emergency situations. “This will significantly help us narrow down nuisance alarms and reduce response times for security operators,” Young explained. The system’s learning capability allows it to continuously improve its ability to differentiate between various objects and behaviors, a feature unprecedented in traditional sensor systems. The importance of this is people
here in Huntsville are working on these systems. The only way we will gain, keep, and retain this kind of work is to draw in the engineering community that enables this kind of work and incentivize contractors to seek it out.
The University of Alabama System is significantly investing in artificial intelligence (AI) research by establishing the Alabama Center for the Advancement of Artificial Intelligence (ALA-AI) at the University of Alabama’s College of Engineering. This initiative aims to advance AI technology and its applications while addressing ethical considerations. The ALA-AI will foster interdisciplinary collaboration, bringing together experts from various fields to tackle AI challenges.
Researchers at the University of Alabama in Huntsville are already utilizing AI to analyze social media posts to identify and address supply-chain shortages. The system-wide effort underscores the
commitment to positioning Alabama as a leader in AI innovation and practical application. While UAH does not yet have a dedicated center, the Invention to Innovation Center (I2C) of UAH has launched the Artificial Intelligence Research Center (ARC) to foster conversations and learning on campus and to the business community.
UAH also Hosted ACHE’s AI Conference
On March 1, UAH hosted the Alabama Commission on Higher Education’s Artificial Intelligence in Alabama Higher Education Conference, drawing over 200 attendees from across the state.
Dr. Ravi Pendse, vice president for information technology and chief information officer at the University of Michigan, delivered a thoughtprovoking keynote presentation titled “Generative AI – A Force for Positive Disruption.” Pendse emphasized the revolutionary potential of generative AI, likening its societal impact to that of the internet.
AI is not just going to spawn new degrees, it is changing the entire paradigm of secondary education. It is being recognized that if we don’t also change, we will see a vast export of students to other states to study
the field.
By: Carl Holden
So what still needs to happen?
We have an AI Task Force that has broken into committees to start tackling these issues but we are talking about a group of less than 100 people actively meeting monthly. While they are incredibly connected and motivated, this can’t just be a top-down effort.
Keep in mind the pace at which this has all happened. ChatGPT release in November 2022. It’s not even been two years!
What can you do as a local employee or business owner to contribute! Here’s a few ideas:
• Get involved with the Task Force. We still need more people!
• Pilot AI in your organization. Figure out initial ways you can use it.
• Learn about AI and encourage that content to be shared among colleagues.
• Create business ideas and enter pitch competitions.
• Host events or seminars to bring in educators or experts on AI. I’m very excited to see AI continue to grow. We have been in the innovation “Space” here for a long time but we aren’t quite at the level we need to be. That comes down to more smart people here taking the initiative. Thanks for everything you do and will do! w
“AI Talks” is a series from the Huntsville Business Journal on Artificial Intelligence and its applicability to the world of business. Each month, HBJ plans on bringing you interesting topics led by our contributing expert writer, Carl Holden. This series also introduced another new “writer” to our journal: Artificial Intelligence itself. Using Chat Generative Pre-trained Transformer (ChatGPT), we plan on bringing our readers an “article” written directly by AI. While AI cannot currently write a news article with fully original sources, this series hopefully will introduce our readers to the nuances of Artificial Intelligence in the modern age of business.
Carl Holden, Creative Director of Zellus Marketing
A Transformative Approach for Harnessing AI in Huntsville’s Diverse Industries
By: ChatGPT
Artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing various sectors globally, and Huntsville, Alabama, is no exception. Known for its rich history in aerospace and defense, Huntsville is also becoming a burgeoning hub for technology and innovation.
The integration of AI across different industries in Huntsville promises to enhance efficiency, drive economic growth, and improve quality of life for its residents. This article explores how AI can be positively leveraged in Huntsville’s aerospace, defense, healthcare, manufacturing, and urban planning sectors.
Aerospace and Defense
Huntsville, often dubbed “Rocket City,” is home to NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center and the U.S. Army’s Redstone Arsenal. AI can significantly augment aerospace and defense operations by enhancing predictive maintenance, optimizing flight paths, and improving simulation and training.
1. Predictive Maintenance: AI algorithms can analyze data from aircraft and spacecraft sensors to predict potential failures before they occur. This proactive approach minimizes downtime and reduces maintenance costs, ensuring that missions are not interrupted by unexpected technical issues.
2. Flight Optimization: AI can optimize flight trajectories to save fuel and time. Machine learning models can analyze weather patterns, air traffic, and other variables to suggest the most efficient routes, thereby enhancing the overall efficiency of aerospace operations.
3. Simulation and Training: AIdriven simulations can provide more realistic training scenarios for pilots and astronauts. Virtual reality (VR) and AI can create immersive environments that replicate real-world conditions, enabling better preparation and decision-making skills for personnel in critical situations.
Healthcare
The healthcare sector in Huntsville can benefit immensely from AI through improved diagnostics, personalized treatment plans, and operational efficiencies.
1. Enhanced Diagnostics: AIpowered diagnostic tools can analyze
medical images, such as X-rays and MRIs, with high accuracy, aiding in the early detection of diseases like cancer. These tools can complement the expertise of radiologists, ensuring quicker and more precise diagnoses.
2. Personalized Treatment: Machine learning algorithms can process vast amounts of patient data to identify patterns and suggest personalized treatment plans. This approach ensures that patients receive care tailored to their specific conditions, improving outcomes and reducing the risk of adverse reactions.
3. Operational Efficiency: AI can streamline hospital operations by optimizing schedules, managing patient flow, and predicting staffing needs. This efficiency not only enhances patient care but also reduces operational costs for healthcare facilities.
Manufacturing
Huntsville’s manufacturing industry, particularly in advanced manufacturing and automotive sectors, stands to gain from AI through automation, quality control, and supply chain optimization.
1. Automation: AI-powered robots and machines can perform repetitive and hazardous tasks with high precision, improving productivity and safety on the manufacturing floor. Automation also allows human workers to focus on more complex and valueadded activities.
2. Quality Control: AI-driven quality control systems can inspect products for defects at a much faster
rate than human inspectors. Machine learning algorithms can learn from past defects to improve inspection accuracy over time, ensuring higher product quality and reducing waste.
3. Supply Chain Optimization: AI can analyze data across the supply chain to predict demand, manage inventory, and optimize logistics. This predictive capability helps manufacturers reduce costs, minimize delays, and respond more effectively to market changes.
Urban Planning and Infrastructure
As Huntsville continues to grow, AI can play a crucial role in urban planning, traffic management, and infrastructure development.
1. Smart Traffic Management: AI can analyze traffic patterns and adjust signal timings in real-time to reduce congestion and improve traffic flow. This technology can lead to shorter commute times and lower emissions, enhancing the overall quality of life in the city.
2. Infrastructure Monitoring: AI-powered sensors can monitor the health of critical infrastructure such as bridges, roads, and buildings. By detecting structural weaknesses early, city officials can perform timely maintenance, ensuring the safety and longevity of infrastructure.
3. Urban Planning: AI can assist urban planners by simulating different development scenarios and predicting their impact on the community. This capability allows for more in-
formed decision-making, ensuring that growth is sustainable and beneficial for all residents.
Education and Workforce Development
AI can also support Huntsville’s education system and workforce development initiatives, ensuring that the city remains competitive in a rapidly evolving job market.
1. Personalized Learning: AIdriven educational platforms can offer personalized learning experiences for students, adapting to their individual strengths and weaknesses. This tailored approach helps students achieve their full potential and prepares them for future careers.
2. Skill Development: AI can identify emerging skills in the job market and help design relevant training programs. By aligning educational curricula with industry needs, Huntsville can ensure that its workforce is equipped with the skills required for high-demand jobs .
3. Job Matching: AI-powered job matching platforms can connect job seekers with opportunities that align with their skills and preferences. This technology can reduce unemployment and help employers find the best candidates more efficiently.
Conclusion
The positive impact of AI across Huntsville’s various industries is undeniable. From enhancing aerospace and defense capabilities to revolutionizing healthcare, manufacturing, urban planning, and education, AI offers transformative potential for the city’s growth and development. By embracing AI technologies, Huntsville can continue to lead in innovation, improve quality of life for its residents, and maintain its competitive edge in the region.
As Huntsville navigates this technological evolution, it is essential to foster collaboration between public and private sectors, invest in AI research and development, and ensure that ethical considerations guide the deployment of AI solutions. With these efforts, Huntsville can harness the full potential of AI, driving economic prosperity and creating a brighter future for all. w
The Secret to Shopping for College Dorms: Shop Small Local Businesses
Whether you are moving your child into their new college dorm or helping them settle into their first apartment, great deals and unique finds abound when you shop with small, local businesses.
Looking for functional, sturdy, and unique furniture? How about key accessories like trashcans, rugs, and wall decor?
Almost everything you need for dorm move-in or establishing a new apartment can be found at local shops.
Vendor malls featuring vintage, handmade, and repurposed goods like University Pickers, Top Key Market, and Vintage 72 typically feature a selection of solid wood furniture pieces perfect for outfitting dorms and first apartments.
You can expect to find desks for study spaces, shelving for books, incidental tables, bedside tables, bed frames, and dressers at these stores.
The furniture pieces have often been lovingly restored or repainted and are available for a fraction of the cost of buying new. And bonus–no assembly required!
“Parents can expect to find everything they need to set up a comfortable and stylish dorm or apartment and help their student make their new space truly their own. Plus, these essentials come at great prices, so parents can help students start their college journey without breaking the bank,” said Trish Gleason, co-owner of University Pickers.
By: Heather Alfonso
While you are at any of these shops, you can pick up just about anything you can imagine in the way of decor and accessories as well.
Furniture consignment stores offer gently used furniture looking for a new home. Check out Interiors by Consign in Huntsville or Madison, as well as Encore Furniture and Decor in Huntsville for just the right pieces.
Consignment stores often mark down their items each month, so patience can help you snag an even bigger deal if you are willing to take a chance on
your coveted item selling before the next markdown.
If you are looking for new furniture, University Furniture Gallery has some great deals.
Also, check out Haley’s Flooring and Interiors for carpet remnants and small room safes.
Charming boutiques featuring multiple vendors offer unique gifts and decor for the newly independent teen. The Cottage Collective in South Huntsville and Southern Trends to the north are two such local shops.
Worried about the logistics of move-in day? Don’t sweat it! Applewhite Movers, LLC will deliver from anywhere in the U.S. to the college dorm of your choice in Huntsville. w
Summertime Months Approach Record Setting Power Load Demands For TVA
By:
Late last month, members of the media were invited to Browns Ferry Nuclear Plant to learn about the different ways the TVA workers at the plant have been preparing for summer.
More specifically, TVA has completed seasonal readiness reviews to ensure the plant’s generating assets are prepared to meet the weather conditions expected.
TVA’s Public Relations Director Scott Fielder shared how important these maintenance reviews are in ensuring power demands that can skyrocket up and down in accordance with the weather.
“We thought we were going to set a July power record on Tuesday of this week,” Fielder explained. “However, a few rain showers developed over North Alabama and Southeast Tennessee reducing peak demand to 29,821 MW. We still may hit a July record but the temperatures for the remainder of the 10-day period are forecasted to be below average.”
While mid-July did not result in record breaking power loads, Fielder said it was still the sixth largest power load demand in the TVA’s history.
And because of rising temperatures like those seen in the past weeks, TVA officials spent this past Spring completing over 75 different projects at Brown’s Ferry and other plants to maximize capabilities and assure reliability.
There are also programs in place to help customers keep their power de-
mand, as well as their power bill, as low as possible.
“The best thing that a homeowner can do right now to save money on their power bill is to get their HVAC unit checked because 50% of your power bill this summer is going to be cooling your home,” Fielder explained. “We will pay a $50 rebate for homeowners to get their HVAC unit checked out.”
This program can be used by visiting energyright.com. Additionally, if the check shows that a customer’s A/C unit is on its last leg, the TVA is also offering rebates of $1,500 to replace it with a new energy efficient unit. There are also specific programs for business owners to lower their costs.
“We are offering businesses up to $3 million annually to make energy efficient upgrades. So far, 1,700 businesses have used the incentives, saving over $115 million in energy costs.”
Fielder explained that by investing in homeowners and business owners, they can reduce around 2200 megawatts over the next 10 years to offset some of the growth the area is experiencing.
To meet the region’s growth, TVA is building more than 3,800 megawatts of new generation that includes solar, energy storage, combustion turbines and combined-cycle natural gas. In total, TVA has more than 4,000 megawatts of solar energy either in service or under construction. w
Noah Logan / Photo by Noah Logan
Alabama June Monthly Report Indicates Brisk Activity
The Alabama Association of Realtors (AAR) has released its Alabama Economic and Real Estate Report for June of 2024.
The report shows several indicators that the real estate market across the state is maintaining a strong and healthy level of activity.
“The latest data underscores a positive trend in our housing market, driven by economic growth and favorable mortgage rates,” said Jeremy Walker, CEO of Alabama Realtors. “As we look forward, a potential cut to the federal funds rate could further stimulate the real estate industry, providing even more opportunities for home and property ownership.”
Sales across the state increased 4.1% from the previous month, making the fifth consecutive month of sales growth. The AAR expects that this trend will continue through the month of July, estimating an increase of around 3%.
The number of active listings increased to 16,549, bringing those levels to a number that hasn’t been seen since before the pandemic.
The median sales price across the state continued to rise, racing $228,970 during the month of June. This is a 12.1% increase from May, the highest single spike in ten months.
The average sales price reached $242,141, an increase of 5.7% from May, and a 7.6% increase from June of the previous year. The AAR also
expects the average price to continue to rise over the next month, by an estimated 4%.
The increase in sales has begun to outpace the additional inventory added to the market. The monthly supply of inventory dipped from 4.4 in May to 4.3 in June. However, this arrest in momentum is
being somewhat offset by a surge in housing building permits issued in June, which reached the highest levels since May of 2022. This indicates a continued demand for housing across the state, and confidence in the viability of Alabama’s housing market.
The 30-year fixed mortgage rate
By: Marie Johnson / Infographics courtesy of HAAR
steadily decreased over the course of June, remaining below seven percent for the past seven weeks. The rate of inflation has begun to decline, which increases the likelihood that the Federal Reserve will begin lowering the interest rates at the end of the year.
Here in Huntsville specifically, the Huntsville Area Association of Realtors (HAAR) has also released its monthly report.
The Huntsville/Madison County market saw an increase in sales. 685 houses were sold in June, up from 651 the previous year, with 1059 pending sales over the course of June.
The number of homes on the market showed a marked increase, with 2237 houses on the market, up from 1565 in 2023. Houses are spending an average of ten days longer on the market in June of 2024 than they did in 2023, with the average time spent on market at 35 days.
Finally, the average sales price has continued to creep upwards, showing a $5K year-over-year increase. The average sales price in Madison County reached $390,000. These reports are indicators of a healthy real estate market for both Alabama as a whole and Huntsville in particular. With Alabama adding another 3,500 jobs in May, there is solid basis for consumer confidence in the market as we look towards late summer and early fall. w
Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), have been a hot topic to help solve the national housing supply crisis of approximately 6 Million homes.
Housing supply is not easily fixed as it would likely take at least a decade to bridge the gap, assuming we were building at the right pace, which we are not. So with that challenge, one proposal that keeps getting brought up in many large cities is ADU’s.
Huntsville wants to be progressive, so it is in the process of making amendments to get ADU’s passed.
On the surface, it makes sense, but probably not today and here’s why.
We’re not currently experiencing the same affordability crisis that other cities are experiencing, so we have the benefit of time on our hands to allow others to get it right and wrong, and learn from their mistakes. We can’t undo the oversupply of apartment complexes that has plagued our city. Let’s not add to it an ADU mistake.
We already have an oversupply of units to lease. Now is not a good time to pour gasoline on the rental supply fire we’re currently facing. You think all of the apartment complexes on every corner look bad now? Just wait until the owners don’t have the funds for maintenance and repairs because they’re under occupied.
The other challenge with ADU’s is that many residents didn’t sign up for this in their neighborhoods. ADU’s can be an annoyance for neighbors, and homeowners should make the choice on whether they want to live in a community with ADU’s.
Further, ADU’s are more geared towards providing rental options. It’s no secret that home ownership boosts pride of ownership in the city, so I think the number one thing we should be focusing on is housing supply.
And not just housing supply, but affordable housing.
If we’re going to approve ADU’s, which are essentially “Tiny Homes,” why not approve zoning for Tiny Home communities where people can own a piece of Huntsville vs renting it and help provide affordable housing for our local service providers. w
Huntsville Real Estate Conundrum: To
Buy or Not to Buy?
The national real estate market has entered a period of cooling, as the combination of restricted inventory and high interest rates have driven down sales.
According to, which compiled a four-month report which concluded on June 30th, pending sales have declined an average of five percent over the four months.
Despite this decline in pending sales, the median sales price continued to build to what Redfin is reporting as an “All-time high.”
The situation here in Huntsville is a bit different from the national context. According to a recent weekly report compiled by the Huntsville Area Association of Realtors (HAAR) pending sales have continued to increase across the Huntsville/Madison County market.
Pending sales of single-family
homes increased by 9.4%, while townhouse/condo units saw a 57.1% increase.
New listings increased by 4.8% for single-family units and 60% for townhouse units. Meanwhile, inven-
By: Marie Johnson
tory continued to increase, with a 19.2% increase of new single-family homes and a 76.2% boost in townhouse units.
So, to buy or not to buy – that is the question.
According to Freddie Mac, the average mortgage rate for a 30-year fixed mortgage sits at 6.97%. Fannie Mae projects that the rate will see a slight decline by the end of 2024, estimating an average rate at or around 6.7%.
Realtor.com reports that, nationally, inventory increased by 35.2% over the month of May, relative to May of the previous year. This marks the seventh consecutive month of year-over-year inventory
REAL ESTATE
increase, but even this increase still fails to bring housing inventory up to 2017 levels.
The Federal Reserve expected to gradually begin lowering interest rates over the course of this year, but stubbornly-high inflation has caused it to repeatedly delay it, with the first decrease expected to occur sometime in fall or winter of this year.
The demand for housing has remained elevated, even as potential buyers have been dissuaded from, if not outright priced out of, buying over the course of these last two years. While inventory has continued to come online, it still is not sufficient to meet the demand of the 71 million millennial Americans who are entering the home buying stage of their life cycle.
What all of this means is that housing prices could remain high, and increase as time goes on, as expanding housing is a complicated process, involving the additional construction of the sup-
porting infrastructure to accompany these homes, such as roads, power, and sewage facilities.
A huge backlog of increasinglydesperate buyers looking for homes means that, when the interest rates begin to lower, those who had previously held off could well decide to throw their hat into the arena, keeping housing prices high.
In any event, irrespective of the national market, Huntsville itself remains a highly-desirable market, with its status as a hub of the federal defense industry. As such, while the median sales price remains lower than the national average, our local real estate market is likely to remain brisk for some time to come.
As always, the Huntsville Business Journal recommends consulting professional realtors and mortgage financial officers before making the decision to buy or sell a home. The HBJ will continue to report developments in the real estate market, both locally and across the nation. w
Lockheed Martin to Develop Next-Gen Satellites for NOAA in a $2.27B Contract
NASA has awarded Lockheed Martin the contract to develop and build the Geostationary Extended Observations (GeoXO) satellite constellation for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).
This project, encompassing an initial three spacecraft with options for four additional ones, carries a total potential value of $2.27 billion.
The GeoXO mission is poised to enhance and expand the critical weather observations currently provided by the GOES-R Series satellites, also built by Lockheed Martin.
GeoXO aims to introduce new capabilities for monitoring oceans and air pollution, which will result in more accurate weather forecasting and address emerging environmental challenges. These advancements are crucial for maintaining national resilience and economic stability.
“Our team is excited and ready to move forward to design and field this critical national capability,” stated Kyle Griffin, Vice President and General Manager of Commercial Civil Space at Lockheed Martin. “Our GeoXO design draws heavily from what we’ve learned with GOES-R spacecraft over the last 15 years, while incorporating new, digital technologies.”
Scheduled for its first launch in the early 2030s, the GeoXO satellites will continue to support NOAA’s geostationary observations through the late 2050s.
“NOAA’s Geostationary Extended Observations (GeoXO) satellite system is the ground-breaking mission that will advance Earth observations from geostationary orbit. GeoXO will supply vital information to address major environmental challenges of the future in support of U.S. weather, ocean, and climate operations,” said a NASA spokesperson.
The spacecraft will be based on Lockheed Martin’s modernized LM2100™ satellite bus, which was chosen because of its enhanced performance and flexibility. The platform’s SmartSat™ technology will allow for software updates and new capabilities to meet evolving environmental data needs over the coming years.
This is not Lockheed’s first foray
into the geospatial industry.
Lockheed Martin’s has a longstanding history in the development and deployment of weather and environmental spacecraft. Over the past 50 years, the company has built and launched more than 120 such satellites for both civil and military applications.
The GOES-R mission, in particular, has set new standards with its advanced capabilities, including geostationary lightning detection and wildfire monitoring.
The culmination of the GOES-R series, GOES-U, is slated for launch on June 25, 2024, from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, continuing Lockheed Martin’s legacy of innovation and reliability in weather satellite technology. w
Akima Secures $563 Million Contract to Support Redstone Arsenal
Akima Facilities Operations (AFO), a subsidiary of Akima, has been awarded a significant contract to provide installation support services at Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville, Alabama.
This contract, granted by the U.S. Army Contracting Command – Redstone (ACC-R), spans a potential 10-year period and could be valued at $563 million if all options are exercised.
Scott Rauer, President of Akima’s Facilities Solutions Group, expressed the company’s enthusiasm for the project.
“Akima is honored by this contract award and the opportunity to expand our support to the Army at such a critical facility. Redstone Arsenal serves as a hub for various national defense operations, including technology development, research, and program management,” said Rauer. “As a federal center of excellence, Redstone Arsenal hosts over 65 tenant agencies. Its importance to northern Alabama and the nation is unquestioned. Akima is proud to support such a vital installation.”
Under the contract, AFO will deliver a comprehensive range of facility support services to several key tenants at Redstone Arsenal.
These tenants include the U.S. Army Materiel Command, U.S. Army Aviation and Missile Command,
Space and Missile Defense Command, multiple Program Executive Offices, and divisions of the Defense Intelligence Agency and the Missile Defense Agency.
The services provided will encompass engineering, environmental services, and maintenance for facilities and equipment. w
IHG Hotels & Resorts Bring a New Sustainable Concept to North Alabama
IHG Hotels & Resorts and Integrity Hotel Management have announced the grand opening of their first dualbranded property in Alabama, featuring avid hotels and Candlewood Suites.
Located at 1207 Jordan Road SW in Fort Payne, the hotel is situated off Interstate 59 and sets a new benchmark for sustainable hospitality in the region.
“We are excited to launch this dualbranded property with IHG Hotels & Resorts,” said Bill Parsons of Integrity Hotel Management. “This hotel represents our dedication to offering guests diverse choices while incorporating advanced sustainable practices.”
The Fort Payne property is the first in the area to feature a total solar roof and geothermal equipment, significantly reducing its environmental footprint.
The dual-branded hotel caters to various guest needs, offering king and double queen rooms with sound-reducing features, focusing on essential amenities at a reasonable price. The Candlewood side is equipped with studio and one-bedroom suites with fully-equipped kitchens, ideal for extended stays.
Guests can enjoy the hotel’s fitness center, complimentary breakfast, and seasonal outdoor pool.
The grand opening and ribboncutting ceremony took place on July 10th, 2024.
For more information, please visit www.ihg.com/candlewood. w
Huntsville Cost of Living and Employment Drive
Millennial Population Growth
percent of the U.S. population, their day-to-day well being is a good sample of our health as a nation.
CommericalCafe’s study of top U.S. millennial metros show that Millennials continue to flock to Huntsville for its cost of living, employment opportunities
At a national level, Huntsville ranked 4th among the top 20 in terms of cost of living and third for lowest rate of unemployment, sitting at 2.6 percent. Huntsville also saw a 10 percent jump in its percent of Millennial residents between 2018 and 2022, placing it in third.
In the south, Huntsville ranked 2nd among the regional top 10 for its rise in residents from this age group among the metro’s overall population from 2018 through 2022. The metro came 2nd among the regional top 10 in terms of cost of living.
Huntsville placed 4th for its employer-based health insurance coverage of 68.9% among Northeast’s 10 best entries.
Another major reason has been a transformation of the local economy and the development of new jobs from growing industries.
The tech sector stands out as one of the fastest growing sectors of HSV’s diverse economy that helps to complement its established aerospace and defense industries. This evolution has positioned Huntsville as a regional hub for tech employment, earning it recognition as one of the fastest-growing metro areas for tech jobs.
The city’s diverse employment landscape makes it an attractive destination for Millennials, particularly those with qualifications suited to these burgeoning fields. Consequently, Huntsville’s current 41.2% share of Millennials holding bachelor’s degrees are strategically well-placed for future opportunities in this market.
In the South, Huntsville was outranked only by Austin, TX and Raleigh, NC.
Nationally, Austin, TX; San Jose, CA; Raleigh, NC; and Harrisburg, PA take the lead, respectively.
Interestingly, the South held seven of the top twenty metros, showing a good balance between income and cost of living in the region as a whole. w
ServisFirst Bank Huntsville Welcomes Newest Senior Vice President and Private Banking Officer
ServisFirst Bank, a part of ServisFirst Bancshares (NYSE: SFBS), has announced that Lisa Bryan will be stepping into a new role as the bank’s Senior Vice President and Private Banking Officer for its Huntsville division.
“We’re thrilled to have Lisa join our Huntsville team. Her extensive experience in the financial services sector, along with her commitment to community involvement, makes her an excellent fit for ServisFirst Bank Huntsville,” said Andy Kattos, Regional CEO for ServistFirst. “Our private banking clients have distinct needs, and Lisa has the skills and knowledge to provide them with exceptional, tailored service.”
Lisa Bryan steps into her role at ServisFirst Bank Huntsville with over 30 years of experience in the financial industry.
She has held various prominent positions, such as retail market leader, sales performance partner, and regional retail sales manager, where she was recognized as a top performer. Her career highlights include managing teams, employees, and bank branches.
Bryan holds a Bachelor of Business Administration from Faulkner University, an Associate of Science degree from Calhoun Community College, and a Commercial Lending Certificate from the Barret School of Banking.
She actively participates in local initiatives and is a member of Rotary Club of Greater Huntsville and the Women Economic Development Council (WEDC). She also plays a leadership role in the Leadership Management Academy.
Her past community service includes presidencies of CASA of Madison County and Executive Women International, as well as involvement with Leadership Huntsville and the Huntsville Botanical Gardens.
For more information or to locate your nearest ServisFirst Bank, please visit www.servisfirstbank.com/Locations.
Huntsville Executive Awarded CIT Advocate of the Year Award for Mental Health Advocacy
Adina Peyton, Executive Director of Getting Real About Mental Illness (GRAMI), has been honored with the Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) Advocate of the Year Award by CIT International.
The award will be presented at the annual conference in Indianapolis from Aug. 26-28, 2024, with over 1,400 attendees expected from law enforcement, behavioral healthcare, and advocacy sectors.
The CIT Advocate Award is given to individuals who have significantly contributed to the CIT program, promoting it as a vital community initiative and advocating for mental health care.
Peyton’s dedication to CIT was sparked by the tragic loss of her son during a mental health crisis involving police. Since then, she has championed CIT training, funding GRAMI’s early efforts and tirelessly working to improve behavioral health care access.
Peyton’s work includes educating officials on the importance of CIT and supporting first responders’ mental health.
Her efforts aim to prevent similar crises and ensure comprehensive care for those in need.
More information about CIT can be found at www.citinternational. org.
ServisFirst Bank Huntsville Announces New Vice President, Mortgage Loan Officer
ServisFirst Bank, a subsidiary of ServisFirst Bancshares (NYSE: SFBS), announced the appointment of Tammy Ehrle as Vice President and Mortgage Loan Officer for its Huntsville region.
“We are thrilled to welcome Tammy to ServisFirst Bank and our Mortgage Department,” said Andy Kattos, Regional CEO of ServisFirst Bank Huntsville. “Tammy has had an outstanding career in the banking and mortgage industry, helping countless families achieve homeownership. Her extensive experience will be a significant asset to our clients and will support our mission to meet the diverse needs of the community.”
Tammy Ehrle joins ServisFirst Bank Huntsville with over 20 years of experience in financial and mortgage services.
A Huntsville native, Ehrle has dedicated her career to offering lending services to the local community.
She has developed relationships with local builders and realtors, facilitating homeownership for thousands of families.
Locally, she is involved with the Huntsville Area Association of Realtors (HAAR), the Huntsville Madison County Homebuilders Association (HMCBA), the Huntsville Mortgage Bankers Association of Alabama (MBAAL), and the Women’s Council of Realtors (WCR).
For more information about Tammy Ehrle’s appointment, please contact Krista Conlin at Krista@KCProjects.net. To learn more about ServisFirst Bank, visit www.servisfirstbank.com.
AR Business Consulting, LLC Joins Forces with Anglin Reichmann Armstrong to Deliver HR Consulting Services
Anglin Reichmann Armstrong, P.C. has announced that AR Business Consulting is joining forces with the company to launch a new line of human resources consulting and compliance services.
Anglin’s new HR Consulting Services line will include strategic human resources consulting and management of employment policies and procedures, the HR and benefits side of payroll and oversight on state and federal employment law compliance.
Effective July 1, Alissa Phelps, SHRM-CP, founder of AR Business Consulting, will begin consulting with Anglin clients under the title, Director of HR Consulting Services. She can serve clients in Alabama, Florida and beyond, offering more than 15 years of experience in human resources and business management.
Her comprehensive background encompasses in-depth knowledge and practical experience in HR management and compliance for government contractors.
“We discovered a great alignment between Alissa’s experience and the HR services we want for our clients,” noted Brandon Smith, Anglin’s managing partner. “This new services line fits perfectly into our comprehensive business advisory solutions for a variety of industries.”
Likewise, clients of AR Business Consulting can access services available at Anglin, said Phelps.
“This opportunity allows me to do what I do best, which is comprehensive business management that engages all areas of client operations. Between my business knowledge and the advisors at Anglin, we can be the total package,” said Phelps.
AR Business Consulting Services, LLC, in partnership with Anglin Reichmann Armstrong, offers a variety of strategic human resources consulting and business management services, including but not limited to HR audits, employee policies and procedures and employee handbooks, employment law research and consulting, compensation and benefit benchmarking, employee benefit support, employee benefits side of payroll and timely HR communications and consulting.
