AL SB370

Applies to Class 5 municipalities (population 23,000-27,000) operating under Act 71, 1977, allowing amendments to the council-manager form of government.

Council members who violate provisions preventing interference with city manager appointments or removal of staff face criminal penalties: Class B misdemeanor for first offense and Class A misdemeanor for second offense.

Establishes positions for an assistant city manager and city planner, with the assistant manager performing duties during the city manager's temporary absence or disability.

Council may only enter into employment contracts with the city manager, not department heads; department heads removed without cause receive a six-month severance package.

Extends the audit requirement from two to four years before the same accountant or firm may conduct successive examinations of city books and accounts.