Latrobe City Council will decide who will become its next mayor at a special meeting tonight.
While some councillors made their intention not to run clear, others were keeping their cards close to their chest when The Express asked if they were planning to stand as a candidate for the top job.
Deputy Mayor Dale Harriman said he was thinking about putting his hand up, but was still undecided.
Cr Kellie O’Callaghan said she was in the same position, adding it was important for council to have stronger leadership.
Former mayor Cr Sandy Kam said she had not thought about whether or not she would run, but would “wait and see what happens”.
Meanwhile, outgoing mayor Sharon Gibson said she would not continue in the role.
“At this point in time, no, I will not run, because while it’s been a very privileged time. It has been a real balancing act with health issues,” Cr Gibson said.
She said the role required a lot of time, which she gave, but to the detriment of her health, having not been able to practice the required physiotherapy after undergoing back surgery earlier this year.
The outgoing mayor said she hoped the new mayor brought to the role all the attributes she strived to embody.
“All I want is a mayor that’s going to be there for the people to help put us in the best position possible; one who will show… integrity, dignity, trust, honesty and openness,” Cr Gibson said.
Cr Michael Rossiter said he did not intend to put himself forward, but echoed Cr Gibson’s thoughts.
“The mayor should be a person who will display leadership, respect, is approachable, listens to the community and will work with fellow councillors for the significant betterment of Latrobe City,” Cr Rossiter said.
Cr Darrel White said it was “unlikely” he would contest the position; Cr Graeme Middlemiss said he would certainly not run; Cr Christine Sindt said she had no plans to and Cr Peter Gibbons did not wish to comment.
