PHOTO
Andrew Noone has emerged as an early frontrunner to take over from Otago Regional Council chairwoman Marian Hobbs if she is removed from the role.
However, Cr Kevin Malcolm has also declared his intention to stand and the plans of former deputy chairwoman Gretchen Robertson are not yet known.
Nobody else has yet indicated a willingness to put their name forward.
"There is only one person for the role and that is Andrew Noone," deputy chairman Michael Laws said.
Cr Laws pointed to Cr Noone’s experience, character and easy manner and his willingness to work with all councillors.
He also has the backing of Michael Deaker, who said Cr Noone was "thoroughly versed in local government affairs" and he chaired meetings well. Cr Robertson would be his second preference, Cr Deaker said.
Cr Malcolm said he would put his hand up for the role if Ms Hobbs was voted out.
"The biggest part will be reforming relationships throughout Otago and ensuring they are enduring relationships," he said.
Cr Robertson declined to comment.
An extraordinary meeting will be held on July 8 to determine whether Ms Hobbs should be removed as chairwoman.
Nine councillors started the process this week to oust her after she said she would not stand aside. Two declined to sign a letter calling for her removal.
Ms Hobbs has been criticised for pursuing an agenda aligned with the Government’s, rather than one in harmony with most of her team.
Ms Hobbs said she continued to work hard in the role.
She said that, if removed from it, Cr Robertson would be her first preference and Cr Noone her second.
Unhappiness about efforts to improve water quality in the region had fuelled the move to oust her, she said.
Cr Noone said, if chosen as chairman to succeed Ms Hobbs, he would work to bring councillors together as a team.
"I believe I have the ability to unite the council."
Competition for the position was healthy, he said.
Cr Gary Kelliher said he would not stand but indicated he could back either Cr Noone or Cr Malcolm.
Crs Hilary Calvert, Kate Wilson and Carmen Hope ruled themselves out of the running but declined to declare whom they might support.
"There are good, very capable people," Cr Hope said.
Cr Bryan Scott, a supporter of Ms Hobbs, declined to comment and Cr Alexa Forbes ruled herself out but said she planned to wait for the meeting before expressing a view on who she might support.