Ala. Code § 11-43-49: Proceedings - Time and Place of Meetings Generally; Appointment of Temporary Chairman or Election of President Pro Tempore.

The council shall determine the time and place of holding its meetings, which at all times shall be open to the public, and, in towns and cities of less than 12,000 population, in the absence of the mayor, shall appoint a temporary chairman, which appointment shall be entered of record. In cities of more than 12,000 population, it shall elect viva voce a president pro tempore.