Mayor Dexter McLendon finally put the questions to rest over who would take over former councilman Steve Norman’s district two council seat, Monday night.

In a resolution presented to the council during its bimonthly session, McLendon appointed Greenville businessman Ed Sims to the post.

The appointment was unanimously approved.

Promptly following the meeting, Circuit Court Judge Ed McFerrin administered the oath of office to Sims, who took his seat at the council table.

&uot;I’m excited about the appointment,&uot; Sims said. &uot;I’ve lived in Greenville all of my life, and I’m grateful for the opportunity.&uot;

Sims said that although he is pleased with the position, this was not something to which he aspired.

&uot;I’ve always been pleased with the job my councilman was doing, so I’ve never wanted to challenge him. These are growing and exciting times for the city of Greenville, and I’m glad to be a part of it.

The mayor said Sims fit the bill for city councilman because of his passion for the city.

&uot;I wanted to find someone who loves Greenville and has always wanted to live here. That’s how Sims feels,&uot; McLendon said. &uot;I talked with several people in the district, and they really and truly felt like he could do a good job. I know he’s going to do a good job.&uot;

Sims, 48, is the eight-year owner of Championship Trophy.

He was joined at the swearing-in ceremony by his wife, Susan, daughter, Katie Campbell, parents, Nancy and Mack Sims, sister Susan Corley, and other relatives.

Sims will participate in his first full meeting as councilman when the council meets Feb.10.