Cr Klisaris confirmed he would not seek re-election as Mayor at the end of his term, as he believes it is time for another member of the council to leave their mark on the area.

"I've had a great journey, but there are many smart, capable and talented people on this current council. It's time to give someone else an opportunity to shape the city through their eyes. I think we have a great deputy mayor, and if Charlotte sought my support to be mayor then I would support her.

"I believe she has added some really strong qualities and leadership as a councillor over the last four years"

Cr Baines declined to reveal her intensions for a possible tilt at the mayoralty in 2010.

Most other councillors, including Stephen Dimopoulos, Jieh-Yung Lo and former mayor Joy Banerji said they would not run for the position and were undecided on who they would support.

There was one exception, with Tom Morrissey naming Denise McGill as a worthwhile candidate.

"She's got a lot of experience, and I think it would give a different direction from the chair," Cr Morrissey stated.

Cr McGill hasn't decided if she will nominate for mayor, but admitted to weighing up her options. "I haven't given it a lot of thought, and the numbers will be difficult, but there is no reason why any councillor shouldn't put their hand up."

Cr Micaela Drieberg said she was keen to see a female in charge of the municipality next year.

"I know 2010 is the year for women in local government, so it'd be great to see a female as mayor of Monash."

The councillors will vote on the position of 2010 mayor at the December 8 council meeting.