It shall be the duty of the recorder to keep the journal of the proceedings of the council, to have charge and preserve all records and archives of the city, and to perform such duties pertaining to his office as the council shall prescribe. In the absence of the mayor from the city, or in case of his sickness or disability to act, or during any vacancy in the office of mayor, the recorder shall perform the duties belonging to the office of mayor and for that purpose shall have and possess all the powers of the mayor.