Rhode Island General Laws Title 17. Elections § 17-11-9. Election of moderator or clerk pro tempore

(a) In case of the absence of the moderator or of the clerk of any town meeting, of a town not divided into voting districts, the town meeting may elect a moderator or clerk pro tempore, and the town clerk shall preside at the election of the moderator.

(b) In case of the absence of the moderator or of the clerk of a voting district in a town not divided into senatorial or representative districts, the voting district meeting may elect a moderator or clerk pro tempore, and the clerk shall preside in the election of a moderator. At least five (5) electors shall be necessary to constitute a quorum for the purpose of electing the moderator or clerk pro tempore.

(c) In case of the absence of the moderator or of the clerk of a senatorial or representative district or of a voting district in a senatorial or representative district divided into voting districts, the district meeting may elect a moderator or clerk pro tempore, and the clerk shall preside in the election of a moderator. At least five (5) electors shall be necessary to constitute a quorum for the purpose of electing the moderator or clerk pro tempore.

(d) The elected officer shall be sworn to the faithful discharge of his or her duties by any person authorized to administer oaths, and shall hold office in the cities of Providence, Pawtucket, Central Falls, Warwick, Cranston, Woonsocket, and Newport, and in the towns of Barrington, Middletown, and Warren, until a moderator or clerk is appointed by the local board respectively and in all other cities and towns until the election and qualification of the officer's successor.