Ala. Code § 11-43A-34

Nothing in this article contained, except as specifically provided, shall affect or impair the rights or privileges of officers or employees of the municipality or of any office, department, board, or agency existing at the time when this article shall take effect, or any provision of law in force at the time when the council-manager form of government shall be adopted and not inconsistent with the provisions of this article, in relation to the personnel, appointment, ranks, grades, tenure of office, promotion, removal, pension and retirement rights, civil rights, or any other rights or privileges of officers or employees of the municipality or any office, department, board, or agency thereof.