When a temporary absence occurs in the office of Council Member or Recorder as a result of physical or mental disability or extended leave, such absence shall be filled by temporary appointment in accordance with the following:
(a) Definitions.
(1) “Disability” shall mean any physical or mental impairment that substantially limits the ability of the Council Member or Recorder to perform the essential duties of his or her elected office, including but not limited to, participating in regular and special council meetings, committee meetings decision making and deliberating on issues and concerns of the City.
(2) “Temporary disability” shall mean that there is a reasonable expectation of recovery to the extent that the Council member or Recorder can substantially perform the essential duties of his or her elected office and resume such duties.
(3) “Permanent disability” shall mean that there is no expectation or likelihood of recovery to the extent that the Council Member or Recorder can perform the essential duties of his or her elected office.
(4) “Extended leave” shall mean that the Council Member or Recorder has not performed the essential duties of his or her elected office, including the attendance of regular and special council meetings for more than 90 days.
(b) Temporary Appointment of Successor.
(1) If a Council Member or Recorder has been deemed by the Common Council to suffer from a temporary disability or has an extended leave from office, a temporary successor shall be appointed to assume the responsibilities of the office up to and until such time that the Council Member or Recorder returns to office. The temporary successor shall be entitled to the same right, privileges and compensation as though he or she was elected to office.
(2) Temporary appointments to the Council seat shall be made from the qualified voters of the ward from which the vacancy has occurred and shall meet the City’s qualifications for candidates seeking public office. The Common Council shall, by majority vote, appoint the temporary successor.
(3) If at any time during the temporary absence or extended leave, it is determined that the Council Member or Recorder suffers from a permanent disability or shall be on extended leave for a period in excess of one year, the absence shall be deemed to be a permanent vacancy and filled in accordance with Section 16 of the Charter of Paden City.
(c) Construction. Nothing herein shall be construed to supersede, amend or modify the provisions of the Charter and Codified Ordinances of the City.
(Ord. 2013-3. Passed 2-21-13.)