§ 11-9-118

An appointed officer or employee may be suspended, demoted, laid off or removed by the mayor. Where appeal procedures have not been established by ordinance, the officer or employee may appeal the action to the city council. The appeal shall be in writing and shall be filed with the clerk of the council within ten (10) days after the effective date of the layoff, suspension, demotion or removal. The council may affirm, reverse or modify the mayor's decision. The mayor may appoint a person to act during the temporary absence, disability or suspension of such officer or employee, or, in the case of a vacancy, until a successor is appointed and qualified. Laws 1977, c. 256, § 9-118, eff. July 1, 1978.