The process of appointing the Mayor Pro Tempore is outlined in City Council Policy C89-02, "City Council Rules and Procedures". The process is as follows:
The Mayor Pro Tempore is appointed by the Mayor in December or at the first meeting after the City Council is seated following an election. This appointment is announced by the Mayor, but does not need to be ratified by the City Council. In the absence of the Mayor, the Mayor Pro Tempore shall chair the City Council meetings and may attend social/quasi-governmental functions on behalf of the City.