Jefferson County Makes First Attempt to Emerge From Bankruptcy

Jefferson County has recently made plans in order to make an attempt to exit from Chapter 9 bankruptcy.  The County Commissioners have said that the vote could happen as soon as next week, but some creditors have already stated that it will be challenged in court.

In order to emerge from Chapter 9 bankruptcy, only a debtor can propose a restructuring plan and a judge must later approve it. Last year, the county filed for Chapter 9 bankruptcy after claiming that they had $4.2 billion in debt with nearly $3.14 million coming from a sewer expansion program that took place in 1997.

The new restructuring plan would result in an increase of less than $2 per month for sewer customers in the county. The county has not seen a sewer rate increase since 2008.

Sewer system creditors have expressed that they do not think that this plan will work for many reasons. For example, creditors stated that they are not sure how an intricate billing system can be changed so easily. County officials in favor of the restructuring plan will create a “real and meaningful rate increase.”

If you or your family members have any questions regarding any type of bankruptcy, contact a Birmingham bankruptcy lawyer at the Greenway Law Firm today by calling (205) 324-4000.

Paula GreenwayPaula Greenway

Paula Greenway is a native of Birmingham and has focused her practice on consumer bankruptcy since 1996. She is licensed to practice law in all jurisdictions throughout the State of Alabama. Paula has handled over 5,000 bankruptcy cases ranging in complexity throughout her career and prides herself on being able to come up with creative solutions to her clients’ financial issues.