Columbia Mayor pro tem ordinance (§ 2-45)

The council shall select from among the council members a mayor "pro tempore, " who shall act as mayor during the absence or disability of the mayor. If a vacancy should occur, the mayor "pro tempore" shall become mayor for the completion of the unexpired term, unless that term is for a period exceeding one (1) year. In the absence of the mayor "pro tempore, " the council may select one (1) of its members present to preside at council meetings, who shall be styled "acting mayor pro tempore."