Mr Shade has been Horsham Rural City Council's chief executive for 15 years and his latest contract expires mid-May.

Mayor Michael Ryan said council would make a decision `shortly' on whether to advertise the position or renew Mr Shade's contract should he want to continue.

The Mail-Times understands Mr Shade's contract was for three years with a two-year extension.

Cr Ryan said the council followed the process outlined in the Local Government Act, which required Mr Shade to advise the council of his plans six months before his contract expired.

"Kerryn has done that, but that's confidential," he said.

Cr Ryan said the decision about the chief executive role was made by councillors.

"The mayor is responsible for the process and that's something I'm quite comfortable with," he said.

Cr Ryan said the position was an important role in the community.

Mr Shade confirmed the council was considering the issue but declined to comment about his intentions.

"The matter is between the mayor, myself and the council," he said.

Mr Shade said he had worked in local government his entire life, and in the Wimmera since 1978.