Former mayor James Trenery said Cr O’Connor should follow the lead of Benalla mayor Don Firth, who is also an independent candidate in the state election, and immediately take leave of absence from council.

Cr Trenery said he had been approached by ratepayers upset at Cr O’Connor’s intentions to run for mayor again.

“They are not happy because they believe she is partly financing her campaign for the state election through her role as mayor,” he said.

“The Benalla mayor set a precedent for this and stood down without pay as soon as he announced plans to run as an independent.

“I think most people would see that as the right thing to do.

“If she is elected as mayor again will her focus turn to the federal election next year?”

Cr Trenery, who is a Liberal Party member, said he had no plans to stand as mayor next week.

Another former mayor Bernard Gaffney didn’t rule out standing for mayor.

“I’ve been approached to stand and I will assess my options over the weekend,” he said.

Cr O’Connor has publicly announced her intention to run in the seat of Benambra against Liberal Bill Tilley, but can’t officially nominate until October 31 – one day after the mayoral election.

Wodonga Council has delayed its mayoral vote until after the state election in November due to Cr Tim Quilty also being a candidate.

“The reason I am standing for mayor is because there are a number of councillors who have asked me to do so,” Cr O’Connor said.

“Win, lose or draw the mayoral vote I’m on leave from October 31 while the election is on.

“It is a long shot for me to win the election.

“I know the Benalla mayor made the decision he did, but he didn’t have to.”