Ala. Code § 45-37-121.11
The director of personnel shall have authority to investigate concerning the number of employees in any department or office and if in his or her judgment, after conference with the department head, there is an excessive judgment, after conference with the department head, there is an excessive number of employees in proportion to the amount of work required in such department or office, he or she shall recommend in writing to the department head and the governing body that the excess number of employees be laid off or transferred either permanently or temporarily in accordance with this part. Final determination shall be vested in the governing body. He or she shall also study the organization and procedure of the different departments and suggest to the heads of the departments such changes in procedure as may increase efficiency or enable the organization to carry on its work more economically and with a reduced staff.
Ala. Code § 45-37-121.11 (1975)