Councillor Kim O’Keeffe has resigned from her position as mayor of the City of Greater Shepparton, effective from 11pm on Monday, and will seek to take a leave of absence.
Cr O’Keeffe will run for the seat of Shepparton in the November state election, having been endorsed by the Nationals last month.
Councillors will elect a new mayor at an additional council meeting at 5.30pm on Thursday, June 9.
Cr O’Keeffe will apply for leave at that meeting, with Cr Anthony Brophy to remain as deputy mayor unless he is elected to the top job.
If he is elected, a new deputy will be decided at a future meeting.
In tendering her resignation, Cr O’Keeffe said she was incredibly appreciative of the opportunity to be mayor.
“I would like to thank my colleagues past and present for giving me the support to represent council to our community,” she said.
“I have not done this alone, it takes a team of councillors and I have enjoyed working with all of them.
“It’s a role I have thoroughly enjoyed. I appreciate the support from the community and the chance to be involved in so many important local events, strategic developments and initiatives.”