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N.D. (AP) – A permanent replacement for departing North Dakota University System Chancellor Hamid Shirvani might not take over until 2015, or perhaps not at all if voters opt to dump the state Board of Higher Education.

The board voted unanimously Monday to release Shirvani from his three-year contract, ending a tumultuous year that saw numerous complaints over the chancellor’s leadership style. Shirvani says he was just doing his job.

Board president Duaine Espegard told staff that the search for a replacement will begin immediately. But it will likely be an interim position.

Residents will be asked in November 2014 to vote on a constitutional amendment that would eliminate the board and the chancellor’s office in favor of a three-member commission of higher education appointed by the governor.