Long v. Hoover

Edward R. Braden was employed as a police officer with the City of Hoover from 1983 to 1994. The highest rank he achieved was police sergeant. From 1995 to 1997, he was employed as director of public safety for the City. In 1997, the City passed a resolution discontinuing the funding of Braden's position as public safety director. Braden asserts that funding was ceased due to ""political infighting."" The resolution also provided that Braden would be employed by the City at the rank of police sergeant. Braden declined the position and his employment with the City was terminated on November 5, 1997. On March 30, 1998, he sued the city council, alleging, among other things, wrongful termination and violations of his due process rights. On November 15, 1999, the city council passed a resolution amending certain portions of its personnel policies. On December 6, 1999, the city council, by a 3 to 2 vote, passed a resolution, employing Braden as a captain in the City's police department. Council members Barbara McCollum and Jack Wright voted against adopting the resolution. On December 22, 1999, Braden and the City entered into a settlement agreement; pursuant to the agreement Braden agreed to dismiss his claims against the City, and the City agreed to employ Braden as a police officer at the rank of captain. On January 13, 2000, Braden and the City filed a stipulation of dismissal, seeking a dismissal with prejudice all of Braden's claims.