An alternate member, in the absence of the member for whom he or she is alternate, shall sit in place of the member on the board, and shall have, and be able to exercise, all the rights, privileges, and powers of the member when sitting on the board. In the event of death, removal, resignation, or the disqualification of a member, the alternate shall act as a member on the board for the remainder of the term.
If an alternate member is unable to continue serving in that position because he or she has replaced a member on the board or is unable to continue serving for any other reason, a new alternate shall be selected, by majority vote of the board. However, that person shall fulfill all the qualifications set forth in this article as required for the alternate member whose office he or she is to fill. Qualification of any person to fill vacancies on the board shall be certified, in writing, by the secretary.