If after reviewing the report and recommendation, the governor determines that removal is in the best interests of the state, the governor shall make an order in writing removing the accused from office, and shall cause a copy of the order to be delivered to the accused and one copy to be delivered to the board or persons having the authority to fill a vacancy in that office. Thereupon that board or person, within five days thereafter, shall appoint a competent person to fill the office and perform the duties thereof, unless the accused, prior to the final hearing, had been suspended as provided by this chapter, and an interim appointment made. In such case the person appointed to the office during the suspension shall continue until the expiration of the term for which the accused was elected or appointed. If the governor decides that removal is not in the best interests of the state, the governor shall notify the individuals who filed the petition and summarize the reasons for the decision.
N.D.C.C. § 44-11-07