Standing Annexation Committee

The civic engagement of our many volunteer members of City boards and committees are essential to our high quality of life in Vestavia Hills. We are grateful for the great contribution of service these volunteers make to our community. For more information about boards and committees, call 205.978.0100 or email administration@vhal.org.

Meetings held on an “as needed” basis (called at irregular intervals)
Vestavia Hills City Hall, 1032 Montgomery Highway, Vestavia Hills, AL 35216

To view a meeting agenda or previous meeting agenda packets, visit https://vhal.org/government/agendas. 

>>To contact a committee member, email Jack Wakefield, City Planner.

Chair
Kimberly Cook, City Council

Members
Jeff Downes, City Manager/Economic Development
Jack Wakefield, City Planner
Jaclyn Hudson, City Schools BOE Representative
Umang Patel, City Clerk
Michael Vercher, City Council
Chris Vines, Fire Department
Richard Wilcox, Police Department

City of Vestavia Hills Annexation Process

The City of Vestavia Hills follows a structured annexation process established by Alabama law and guided by the City’s Annexation Policy adopted in 2004 through Resolution 3447 (updated Resolution 3824). This process is designed to provide transparency, public notice and careful evaluation of properties seeking annexation into the City. The goal is to ensure that annexed properties remain consistent with community standards and long-term planning goals.

The Annexation Review Committee serves in an advisory capacity. The Committee does not approve or deny annexations. Final annexation decisions are made solely by the City Council following public hearings and review of all relevant information. The Committee’s responsibilities include:

    • Gathering and reviewing property information
    • Providing guidance to applicants
    • Recommending potential improvements
    • Preparing reports and recommendations for the City Council

Review Process

Property Review & Evaluation

The Annexation Review Committee gathers information and evaluates each property for suitability for annexation.

The City Zoning Official circulates the annexation petition to relevant departments and representatives, including: City Planner, Engineering Department, Fire Marshal and School Board representative.

During the review process, a variety of factors are evaluated including: property condition and maintenance, road conditions, stormwater infrastructure, emergency service access, property tax standing and assessed value, and the potential impact of the annexation on school enrollment and facilities.

The Committee may meet with the applicant to discuss findings and recommend improvements that could enhance the property’s eligibility for annexation. The Committee’s role is advisory and informational, providing the City Council with a comprehensive assessment of the property.

Initial Council Review & Overnight Annexation

Once the review process is complete, the property may be placed on the City Council agenda for consideration of “overnight annexation,” which is permitted under Alabama law when all property owners unanimously consent.

During this stage, the City Council receives the Committee’s report, conducts a public hearing and votes on the proposed annexation. If approved, the Council adopts a resolution establishing a 90-day period during which:

    • Any required property improvements may be completed
    • Compatible rezoning applications may be finalized
    • Public notice requirements are satisfied

Following overnight annexation approval, property owners may become eligible for City services, including school registration, during the 90-day period.

Final Annexation Approval

After the required 90-day notice period, the City Council conducts a second public hearing to consider final annexation and any related rezoning requests.

At this stage, the Council reviews the Committee’s recommendations, public input received during the process and compliance with any requested improvements or zoning requirements. If approved, the Council adopts the final annexation ordinance and associated zoning actions.

The annexation process includes multiple opportunities for public notice and input, ensuring a thorough and transparent review process.

Policy Guidelines

The City’s Annexation Policy establishes review guidelines and outlines the responsibilities of the standing Annexation Review Committee. The policy includes the following general considerations:

Property Condition

Properties should:

    • be free of debris;
    • meet general maintenance standards consistent with City ordinances;
    • have adequate stormwater drainage and road infrastructure; and
    • allow sufficient emergency access for fire and public safety services

City engineers and the Fire Marshal inspect properties to evaluate these conditions.

Property Value

The Committee evaluates whether a property’s value is generally consistent with the average tax-assessed value of single-family homes within the City. This assessment requires professional judgment and consideration of how the property would compare if located within City limits.

School System Review

The School Board representative is given the opportunity to provide input regarding the potential impact of annexation on school enrollment and operations.

If additional information is needed regarding the annexation process, contact Jack Wakefield, City Planner.