BATHURST'S most fiercely fought mayoral vote in recent memory will go down to the wire with lobbying for support expected to continue right up to Wednesday night's council meeting.
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Incumbent mayor Graeme Hanger appears resigned to losing the job he has held for the past two-and-a-half years but his vote will likely decide who replaces him.
Councillor Bobby Bourke remains the most likely successor following a deal thrashed out last Friday with councillors Ian North, Alex Christian, Warren Aubin and Cr Hanger.
But sources say Cr Jess Jennings is still hopeful that Cr Hanger will change his mind once the votes are cast.
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Councillor Monica Morse has confirmed she will vote for Cr Jennings, who is also banking on the votes of councillors John Fry and Jacqui Rudge.
"I've put my vote with Jess Jennings," Cr Morse said. "I just don't think I can vote for Bobby Bourke as mayor of this great city."
But Cr Hanger told the Western Advocate on Tuesday that he still intended to vote for Cr Bourke.
"I've signed Bobby's little bit of paper and we'll take it from there," he said.
"Who knows what will happen, and what will happen is always changing."
Meanwhile, Cr Christian has called on Cr Jennings to withdraw from Wednesday's ballot to allow a smooth transition of leadership to Cr Bourke.
"When the battle's over, it's over," Cr Christian said.
"The fact of the matter is, Ian North, myself, Warren Aubin and Graeme Hanger have all unequivocally stated that Bobby Bourke has our support, our word, and it would take someone who does not value their word to change that.
"It's a matter of integrity now.
"It has been a bloody process and I think it's best that Jess tucks in behind Bobby and we all move on."
However, Cr Jennings said there was no chance he would be pulling out of the race.
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"I'm definitely running and I'm confident of my starting group of four supporters," he said.
"I'm very appreciative of their support and I look forward to (Wednesday) night.
"If I am fortunate enough (to become mayor) I am 110 per cent ready, willing and able to deliver for the people of Bathurst."
Cr Jennings said there a number of crucial issues to be addressed over the next 12 months, including Bathurst's water security, the hospital and health services, planning and housing.