Independent Maitland councillor Steve Procter has announced he will not seek re-election and is stepping down after 17 years.
Procter's decision was based on spending more time with family and to open up opportunities to introduce new blood into council.
Procter says his proudest career moments was being re-elected as well as being part of a team.
He says Maitland council needs people who aren't focused on their own future and have the community at heart.
