The annual TrustPower community awards for the Waihemo and Waitaki areas will be combined in Oamaru this year.
The possibility of Trustpower community awards ceremonies being held in Palmerston in alternate years could be "up for negotiation" with TrustPower, Mayor Alex Familton said.
TrustPower Public relations manager Graeme Purches said TrustPower could be open to holding the awards in Palmerston in alternate years.
There will be a special award for the Waihemo area at the awards ceremony, Mr Purches said. The youth award for an East Otago High School student would continue, he said.
One winner for the whole district would go on to the national TrustPower award finals. .
Bus transport would be provided between Palmerston, Hampden and Oamaru for people attending this year's award ceremonies in Oamaru.
Nominations for the Waitaki district awards, including the Waihemo area, close on April 20.
