BAY MINETTE, Ala. — District Attorney-elect Hallie Dixon said Monday she will resign Aug. 31 from a controversial $10,000-a-month contract forged by Circuit Judge James Reid and designed to assist Dixon in the transition period, study the handling of caseloads in other state court circuits and provide interim income.

District Attorney Judy Newcomb called the contract “a sham,” while Circuit Judge Robert Wilters said the contract was “not ethical” and “a way to give her money without doing any work.”

The pact is endorsed by Circuit Judge Lang Floyd, Circuit Judge Charles Partin declined comment and Circuit Judge Carmen Bosch was not available for comment.

Dixon said the contract was “unfairly described” and “created an impression of scandal through the media.”

She said she will complete a preliminary study before resigning.

“I am genuinely saddened by the manner in which some have handled this situation,” Dixon said. “However, Judge Reid and I are both determined to promote a healing of the breakdown within our judicial system. Rather than allow this contract to become another source of continued anger and resentment, I will resign from the position as of Aug. 31,” Dixon said in a prepared statement.

“To further demonstrate my commitment to the people who have entrusted me with the wonderful opportunity to serve this county, I will complete my preliminary proposal within that time, and with the cooperation of those equally committed, continue to work towards bringing about a court system that delivers effective and efficient justice to Baldwin County.”

Reid said he initiated the contract due to Newcomb’s refusal to provide an interim position for Dixon to prepare for office Jan. 16.

“I wish Judy would call today and say to Hallie, ‘I will put you on the payroll.’ If she did, I would tear up the contract.

“It is an overwhelming job. She would be playing catchup. I want her to hit the ground running.”

The contract involves an operational review of other DA offices, including Shelby County, considered one of the most efficient in the state. Reid said he also gave Dixon access to all circuit court records to review and create a plan for reducing backlogs.

Reid said the contract called for Dixon to receive $58.14 per hour based on a 40-hour week, and she would be financially responsible for any necessary office equipment. Benefits were not included.

Reid said the executive director of the Judicial Inquiry Commission said the contract did not present a conflict of interest, based on a review of prior rulings. Reid also asked for a formal, written opinion from the full board.

Wilters said he was apprised of the contract last week via an email from Reid.

“I think it’s wrong, not proper and not ethical,” Wilters said. “It’s just a way to give her money without doing any work. The contract should never have been entered into.”

Newcomb said she was formulating a transition plan with Sheriff Huey “Hoss” Mack, chiefs of police and former District Attorney David Whetstone. She said she has not contacted Reid or other judges because they “should not involve themselves in the executive branch.”

Newcomb said her transition plan would be complete in a month.

“At some point, the plan will involve a position for Hallie,” Newcomb said. “I can’t say what the plan will be and I have discussed it with her. But Judge Reid and Judge Floyd have no place in the transition process. This is about the people of Baldwin County, not about me or them.

“Judge Reid knows I am working on a plan. But they want it now. Judge Reid has no authority to interfere with the executive branch.”