The council, the mayor, or any person or committee authorized by either of them, shall have power to inquire into the conduct of any office, department, agency, or officer of the city and to make investigations as to municipal affairs, and for that purpose may subpoena witnesses, administer oaths, and compel the production of books, papers, and other evidence. Failure to obey a subpoena or to produce books, papers, or other evidence as ordered under this section shall constitute a misdemeanor and shall be punishable by a fine not to exceed one hundred dollars ($100) or by imprisonment not to exceed six months, or both.
Alabama Legal Code