The Hunter's next councils are taking shape this week, as preferences and allocated the final numbers in December's local government elections are counted.
In Port Stephens, the close race between incumbent Mayor Ryan Palmer and Labor challenger Leah Anderson ended with Palmer in the lead by just half a percentage point.
Sue Moore will also serve a second consecutive term in Singleton, marking 22 years on council.
Maitland's seen an upset, with Philip Penfold taking the top job from Loretta Baker, despite initial fears the preferences wouldn't flow in his direction.
In Newcastle, nine of the 13 councillors are set to be women, including Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes.
The Liberals and Greens have both added new members to their council team.
The Newcastle Independents are likely to be left with only John Church.
