The Birmingham City Council on Sept. 30 approved a purchase order and public‑purpose resolution authorizing the city to buy UAB football tickets for distribution to employees, youth groups and neighborhood associations at a cost of $200,000.
The agenda item authorizes the mayor to execute the purchase from the University of Alabama at Birmingham: "1,200 football tickets per UAB home game" as stated in the meeting item, with the item further saying the purchase will be distributed "in accordance with the applicable laws including, but not limited to, Alabama ethics law code of Alabama, section 3 36 dash 5 dash 1." Councilor Williams supported the item and said the city's tourism indicators — including a cited 12.5% increase in room night stays compared with benchmark markets — show events and promotional activity contribute to economic growth.
The council voted to approve the purchase order. The item text attaches an ethics‑law reference; the council did not read further details about distribution mechanics or provide a precise schedule for ticket allocation during the meeting.