Newcastle Councillors will vote tomorrow on whether or not to fill the vacancy left behind after the departure of MP Tim Crackanthorp in late October.
Councillors will vote on whether or not a by-election should be held to fill the vacancy - a decision which will cost ratepayers $175, 000 in a by-election bill.
Meanwhile staff have recommended the chair be left empty with the decision on a proposed merger with Port Stephens still looming.
Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes says the option to leave the seat empty would have her full support, believing the community have had their fair share of elections and it would be an unnecessary costly process.
