The deferral of council elections from this month to December and the retirement of incumbent Kevin Mack has led to the unusual situation.

Previously existing mayors have retained the title, if they have stood again, until a new council is formed.

As part of arrangements following December's election, the current council will decide on Monday night if a meeting will be held on January 10 to elect a new mayor.

That date has been recommended by staff as it complies with a requirement under the Local Government Act to hold such a meeting within 14 days of the election result being finalised.

The newly-elected mayor would serve for 20 months from next January until September 2023, with an election a year later as part of a truncated term to balance the current COVID-driven extended time in office.

IN OTHER NEWS:

Former mayors Henk van de Ven and Alice Glachan were unfussed by the prospect of the city not having an elected leader during the festive season.

"I don't see it as a big issue, it's just a timing thing more than anything else," Cr van de Ven said.

"January is usually our unofficial holiday, I don't think it's going to interfere too much with the running of council."

Cr Glachan said changes to the Local Government Act had meant there were more procedures that could be undertaken by the chief executive.

"The mayor has a very important role, however the council can function without the mayor as the council does on a semi-regular basis when the election is called and certain decisions you can't make and delegated control is maintained," Cr Glachan said.

She declined to say if she would stand for mayor, noting she was yet to confirm her election nomination.

Cr van de Ven said he would seek the mayoralty.

"I've got the experience and the knowledge so I would definitely be putting up my hand to be a candidate," he said.