Some headlines arrived with loud debate. Others unfolded block by block. But each of these five stories helped shape how Homewood evolved in 2025 — through government reform, neighborhood questions and the slow, steady work of growth. Together, they reflect a city learning how to modernize without losing its core.
Election Day
Elections and a handoff: Voters reset the board — mayor plus a five-seat council under the new mayor-council-manager system. The Oct. 27 meeting doubled as a farewell tour for the 11-member council era, with long-serving leaders taking their final votes before the transition. Immediate impact: fewer committees, pre-council briefings and a cleaner line between policy and administration. Broader impact: decisions that don’t wait two weeks.
A conceptual drawing for a steakhouse surrounded by a walkable, family-friendly park proposed by developer Mike Mouron to repurpose the long-vacant police headquarters and jail property. Mouron submitted the idea as an unsolicited proposal at a city finance committee meeting in February, and plans to plans to refine the details and submit a formal plan for review.
Jailhouse Steakhouse withdrawn: A creative reuse plan for the former police property — steakhouse plus pocket park — couldn’t survive litigation and blowback. Developer Mike Mouron pulled the plug in August. The episode was a reminder: even popular ideas need airtight process, broad buy-in and durable timelines.
A larger-than-usual crowd gathered for the Homewood City Council meeting of Oct. 13, when councilors approved a new ordinance addressing homelessness in the city…