Ala. Code § 11-43C-76

Nothing contained in the provisions of this chapter shall affect or impair the rights or privileges of officers or employees of the city or of any office, department, or agency existing at the time when this chapter shall take effect or any provision of law in force at the time when the mayor-council form of government shall become applicable and not inconsistent with the provisions of this chapter 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 city or any office, department, or agency thereof, and as provided by the city’s merit system.