After more than two decades wearing the Invercargill mayoral chains, Sir Tim was unsuccessful in his bid to be re-elected as well as to win a seat on the council, polling 26th on the list.
Mrs Simmonds believed one of the first things any new mayor should do was to consider Sir Tim’s incredible length of service to the city.
"Sir Tim is a man who has given much to our city — it’s only appropriate that we also give back to him at this time.
"I also believe that the people of Invercargill would expect such an acknowledgement, with Sir Tim having served almost 27 years as our mayor."
Mrs Simmonds also wanted to have a long-lasting kind of homage for him.
Many people posted on social media that he deserved a statue.
"I would not rule out a statue for him but there was a range of options we are thinking of.
"He is the longest serving mayor in New Zealand so it is really important that we get this right."
Mayor-elect Nobby Clark agreed.
While he would not be officially sworn in until next week, he already had plans to celebrate Sir Tim’s achievements with the residents.
"I will need just two or three weeks to discuss those plans but we have a range of ideas to celebrate and thank Sir Tim for his work."
The plans included a civic function for guests and an event at the Civic Theatre for the people of Invercargill, so anyone who wanted to would have a chance to thank him in person.
"They can go there and have yarn and tea with him. We will also run books with key events in them for people to write messages to him."
Mr Clark said he would be discussing the plans with his colleagues to ensure an appropriate farewell for Sir Tim, and would make an announcement in due course.
