Invercargill Mayor Tim Shadbolt announced Cr Amundsen as his nominee at the Invercargill City Council's meeting on Tuesday afternoon.
The council quickly accepted the proposal, passing it almost unanimously.
Cr Lindsay Abbott was the only councillor to openly question the decision, asking if it could be discussed (and being told it couldn't by the mayor), then abstaining from the process.
''It's no reflection on the nominee, no reflection on the decision - it's just my stance,'' Cr Abbott said.
Mayor Shadbolt said former Deputy Mayor Darren Ludlow, who resigned on April 26, had always supported him and he appreciated the service Cr Ludlow had given.
Cr Ludlow said despite creating stress for his family, his resignation had been less traumatic than it could have been.
``It has been a genuine privilege to have served the council as deputy mayor for five years.''
Cr Ludlow also thanked staff at council for their support and advice, and the people who had shown him kindness.
Deputy Mayor Amundsen said it would be an honour to serve in the new role, especially with so many new developments on the horizon for Invercargill.
The councillors can overturn the decision at the council's next meeting if they choose.
- Southland Express
