BAY MINETTE, Ala. — The Baldwin County Commission has asked state Emergency Management Agency officials to provide interim staffing at the county’s expense and to conduct an evaluation of the program in the wake of the abrupt resignation of the county’s EMA director.

Melvin Stringfellow resigned April 1, citing an alleged breach in the county’s process for resolving disciplinary matters confidentially.

Stringfellow was referring to his termination last week of Leigh Anne Ryals, deputy director of EMA and former director before accepting a voluntary demotion last year.

Ryals remains on the payroll while the county’s personnel department reviews the case.

Stringfellow’s two-paragraph letter of resignation is dated April 4 and addressed to all commissioners. He also asked county leaders to waive the two-week notice required by his contract.

“The public statements made were based on inaccurate and incomplete information that I believe will unfairly influence the outcome of my recommendation,” Stringfellow stated in his resignation.

His resignation becomes effective April 18. Until then, he will remain on staff, according to county officials.

Commission chairman Frank Burt said a search is under way to fill the post.

“Although I stand by my recommendation, I believe that my ability to manage the Baldwin County Emergency Management Agency effectively has been compromised,” the resignation letter states.

“The best course of action for me and my family is to pursue other career opportunities.”

Burt said Stringfellow has a stellar reputation in emergency management and expressed confusion about the resignation.

“The county is in good shape financially, and he is well respected,” Burt said. There is no need for him to crash and burn. He fired Leigh Ann Ryals, if that is what this is about. But she is still on the payroll,” while the county’s personnel department follows procedures.

Stringfellow stated in an email to Gulf Coast Newspapers on Monday that he would not immediately respond.

“My resignation will be before the commission tomorrow morning,” he stated. “I respectfully request that you allow that to take place before asking me any questions.”