Jefferson County Commission Recap: Property Tax Cap Explained, Job Incentives Approved, and Miss Alabama Honored

August 7, 2025 - JEFFERSON COUNTY, AL. - The Jefferson County Commission held its regular work session and meeting this week, covering a range of topics from property tax policy and economic development to zoning changes and a special recognition for Miss Alabama 2025. For those who missed the live session, the meeting archive is available on the county's website.

Property Tax Cap Clarified

Commission President Jimmie Stephens opened the work session by inviting Maria Knight, Chair of the Board of Equalization (BOE), to explain the state's newly implemented 7% cap on property tax increases. Knight provided a detailed overview of how the cap is applied and clarified a common point of confusion among residents.

While the valuation notices sent earlier this year did not reflect the cap-something clearly printed on the notices-the actual tax bills sent in October will include the 7% limit. Knight emphasized that BOE notices reflect market-based property values year to year, not the final tax amount.

The full explanation is now posted on the front page of the county's website for public reference.

Smart Wiz Expansion Incentives Approved

The Commission unanimously approved job creation incentives for Smart Wiz, an Alabama-based tax software company planning to expand operations. The incentives, capped at $52,000, are expected to help the company add 60 to 70 new jobs in the region.

Commissioners praised the company's growth and its commitment to remaining headquartered in Alabama. The expansion is seen as a win for local tech development and workforce investment.

Water Infrastructure Project Moves Forward

In partnership with the Jefferson County Economic Industrial Development Authority (JCEIDA), the Commission approved a water line improvement project at Barber Boulevard, the site of a new industrial park. The project will be funded through American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) allocations.

Officials say the infrastructure upgrade is essential to attracting new tenants and supporting long-term industrial growth in the area.

Cookie Fix Zoning Change Approved

In a lighter moment, the Commission approved a zoning change that will allow Cookie Fix, a popular local bakery, to begin producing cookie dough at a new office location off Rocky Ridge Road. While the business expansion was welcomed, commissioners jokingly expressed disappointment that no cookies were brought to the meeting.

The zoning adjustment is expected to streamline operations and support the company's growing demand across the Birmingham metro area.

Miss Alabama 2025 Honored

The meeting concluded with a celebratory resolution presented to Emma Terry, the reigning Miss Alabama 2025, by Commissioner Joe Knight. Terry was recognized for her outstanding community service initiative, "Stomping Out ALS One Step at a Time," which has raised over $250,000 for ALS awareness and garnered more than 200,000 views on TikTok.

Commissioners praised Terry's dedication, advocacy, and leadership, extending their best wishes for her upcoming appearance in the 2025 Miss America Pageant.