Citing his own “inappropriate decisions,” City Court Clerk Edward C. Hammonds submitted his letter of resignation Monday.

“I offer my sincere apologies to you, the Council, my staff and citizens of Chattanooga for having misrepresented your trust,” Mr. Hammonds wrote in his resignation letter, also stating he did not want his decisions “to reflect negative on the position or the City of Chattanooga.”

Mayor Ron Littlefield is expected to submit a candidate for Mr. Hammond’s replacement within 30 days, according to a statement from the mayor’s office.

Although his resignation does not become official until Aug. 1, Mr. Hammonds had been on administrative leave since July 3 pending an investigation into “personnel issues,” according to city spokesman Richard Beeland.

Mr. Beeland declined Monday to comment on the nature of those issues.

City Attorney Phil Noblett said he would release an investigation report today that is expected to give details of why Mr. Hammonds came under scrutiny.

“The report concerns allegations made by an employee,” Mr. Noblett said, declining to go into further detail.

The Chattanooga City Court, also known as municipal court, handles noncriminal cases involving traffic, parking and garbage violations as well as animal cases and other city ordinance offenses.

As City Court clerk, Mr. Hammonds was responsible for directing all aspects of the court, including supervision of personnel and the collection of all money the court receives from the payment of items such as traffic tickets.

“The clerk shall ensure that all necessary preparations are made to conduct orderly, professional, efficient and expedient court sessions in City Court,” the city’s Web site states.

The position is appointed by the mayor and requires City Council approval.

Mr. Hammonds was appointed to the position in 2000. His salary this year is $68,289, Mr. Beeland said.

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