While the bulk of councillors favour a change to the top job, few remain certain which way they will swing when votes are cast in September for the last time before a new body is elected next year.

Cr Kendall has encouraged councillors to challenge the role, while a field of at least six councillors jockey for the numbers needed to dethrone him.

Cr Garry Hiscock could run if councillors back him.

“Change is healthy,” Cr Hiscock said of the mayoral seat. “My belief is if they want you, they’ll come. I believe Rod has lost contact with his fellow councillors.”

Cr Julian McLaren, considered by some to be the deciding vote, will be overseas for the election, leaving the final decision to be drawn out of a hat if there is a tie among the remaining 10 councillors.

Cr Andrew Negline and former deputy mayor is “undecided but open to the idea” of running for mayor. 

“I want change and I want engagement,” he said.

“I’m in talk with councillors. I certainly don’t want a vote to be drawn out of the hat, it’s an indictment to councillors.”

Self-proclaimed “underdog” Cr Paul Funnell is considering contesting the position he has ruthlessly criticised in the wake of two major projects falling into jeopardy earlier this year.

“I’m thinking about it at this stage,” he said. “We need change, not just in the elected body, but also within the organisation.”

Cr Kerry Pascoe is “still seriously considering” contesting his former mayor title.

“If I get support of enough councillors, I’ll give it a run,” he said. “I want change.”

Reported front runner, Cr Greg Conkey, confirmed no decision had been made.

“I haven’t made up my mind,” he said. “I think Rod’s done a good job and I will not be disappointed if Rod got re-elected.”

Cr Dallas Tout will not run for mayor, but hopes to continue in his role as deputy mayor. 

“I love doing that job and am happy with the current leadership,” Cr Tout said.

Cr Kevin Poynter remains “very happy with the leadership team at the moment” but is “undecided” if he will run. 

Cr Yvonne Braid believes it is time for change, but has ruled out throwing her hat into the ring. Cr Alan Brown could not be contacted for comment.