The incumbent Port Stephens mayor said he and his team are "future focused" and would be seeking firm commitment and funding for "important investments across the LGA" such as the M1 Pacific Motorway extension, roads and pathway projects.

"Increased spending on infrastructure is a key part of the government's COVID recovery response and we will focus on getting Port Stephens its fair share for major projects like a dual carriageway for Nelson Bay Road from Stockton to Williamtown, as well as local projects to fix potholes and reseal roads across all three wards," Mr Palmer said.

Running in Mr Palmer's east ward team, which appears as Group C on the ballot paper, is current councillor Glen Dunkley alongside Natalie Vogtmann, Bruce Scott and Nicholas Diemar.

The team also consists of current central ward councillors Chris Doohan and Steve Tucker, who are both seeking re-election.

ALSO READ: Port Stephens, meet your candidates

Mr Palmer said he was proud of his team.

"We have a really positive approach in doing what's best for the Port Stephens community. Our campaign has focussed on the issues, not individuals, and this will continue if re-elected for a second term."

Mr Palmer's election campaign is centred around five "fundamental" areas that has pledged to strengthen in Port Stephens: connection (investment into roads, pathways and accessible space), activity (investing in sport, parks, town centres), community (events, economy, connecting people), environment (koala support, waterways) and prosperity (projects for future generations).

"We are ready to deliver for the people of Port Stephens and work collaboratively with all councillors, council staff, government agencies and the private sector to get projects done," he said.

Mr Palmer highlighted Port Stephens Council's achievements in his first term of mayor in seeing the Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary built and Birubi transport interchange fully funded by the state government.

He said he and his team would continue to advocate to see key projects delivered including progressing the Williamtown Special Activation Precinct, the Newcastle Airport runway upgrade, Kings Hill urban redevelopment, revitalisation to town centres and foreshores, better connections (pathways and roads) and the creation of a "smart city" blueprint.

Residents will head to the voting booth on Saturday, December 4.

Early voting is now open.

There are two places in Port Stephens where residents can vote in person early: at the returning office at 42 William Street, Raymond Terrace and All Saints Anglican Church, Nelson Bay. Both are open Monday to Saturday, 9am-5pm.

Voting will be available at select public schools and community halls around Port Stephens on Saturday, December 4 between 8am and 6pm.

Results in all NSW local government elections will be delivered progressively between December 21-23.

ALSO READ: Three councillors to quit, Tucker back in

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