If a vacancy exists in the office of municipal judge by death, resignation, or otherwise, it must be filled by appointment by the executive officer, subject to confirmation by the governing body of the city. An appointee shall qualify and hold office until the next city election and until a successor is elected and qualified. The governing body may appoint an alternate municipal judge to serve when the municipal judge is unable to serve due to temporary absence, interest, disqualification, or disability. The alternate judge must be compensated at a rate set by the governing body and shall possess the qualifications of a municipal judge.