Former DUP MLA Mervyn Storey has been co-opted by the party to fill their vacant seat on Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council following the death of John Finlay.
Mr Storey, who lost his North Antrim seat in May's Assembly election, said it was a "daunting task" to succeed Mr Finlay as a councillor for Ballymoney.
The DUP representative died earlier this month following a cancer diagnosis. Mr Finlay revealed in June his illness was terminal but he sought to continue fulfilling his elected duties until his passing.
Read more: John Finlay tributes after death of DUP councillor following cancer battle
Mr Storey, a former Stormont Finance Minister, paid tribute to Mr Finlay and expressed condolences with his wife Linda and their two daughters.
He said: "The passing of my friend and colleague Alderman John Finlay left us all with a great sense of sadness and loss.
"John had faithfully served on Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council since it came into operation.
"It will therefore be a daunting task to fill the vacancy following John's death. We continue to remember Linda and the girls in prayer.
"I first entered public life in 2001 being elected to Ballymoney Borough Council and it will be an honour to return to continue serving the people of Ballymoney."
DUP leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson congratulated Mr Storey on his co-option to the council.
The Lagan Valley MP said: "The circumstances of this co-option are at the forefront of our mind.
"Our late colleague John Finlay was a sterling representative for the area. I am delighted that someone of Mervyn's calibre will continue that great work.
"Mervyn is rooted in the Ballymoney community and will be a first class advocate for the people of Ballymoney."
DUP councillor John McAuley, the party's group leader on the council, said: "I welcome Mervyn to the DUP council group on Causeway Coast and Glens and we look forward to working with him.
"He has been a dedicated public servant for over two decades and brings to the council a wealth of experience and knowledge."
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