Ala. Code § 45-45-201.01

Upon written notification to the county commission by the director of the department holding office on April 13, 1998, of the director’s intention to retire on a future specified date, a succeeding director of the department shall be elected by the qualified voters of the county at the next countywide election and every six years thereafter. The director shall serve for a term of six years. Any vacancy in the office of the director of the department, because of death, resignation, or otherwise, shall be filled by appointment by the Governor. The appointee shall serve as director until the end of the unexpired term of the previously elected director.