William A. Bell, Sr.

Councilor William A. Bell, Sr. returned to the District 5 City Council seat in November 2005 after a short absence that interrupted a political career that spanned 22 years.

In 1985 during his third term, he was elected by his fellow council members to serve as the first African-American President of the Birmingham City Council. He was again chosen as Birmingham City Council President in 1987 and 1997. In 1999, he also served as Interim Mayor of Birmingham.

As one of the longest serving public officials in the City of Birmingham, Councilor Bell was instrumental in implementing the council consent agenda, which allowed the Council to approve with one vote any item that was non-controversial. With senior citizens in mind, he also assisted in funding a fitness track around Legion Field as well as a mini park. Councilor Bell is also responsible for the first Hope VI Project in downtown Birmingham that transformed a local inner city housing development into an affordable, mixed housing community.

He also has generated more than $197 million dollars for Birmingham schools. The University of Alabama at Birmingham also received more than $87 million for capital improvements during Councilor Bell’s tenure.

Councilor Bell currently sits on the Transportation and Communication Committee and the Public Safety Committee. He is a graduate of the University of Alabama at Birmingham where he received his Master’s Degree in Psychology and Guidance Counseling. He also holds a Doctorate in Jurisprudence from Miles Law School. Councilor Bell came to the Council with extensive professional experience in community and economic development in both the public and private sectors.

Councilor Bell believes that he is first a servant of God and second, a servant of the people. Dr. Bell has been married for more than 32 years to Dr. Sharon Carson Bell and has 2 children, both graduates of Ramsay High School and the University of Alabama.

For more information concerning Councilor Bell or to discuss scheduling arrangements, call Administrative Assistant Brendolyn High at 254.2678