Some other municipal governments in western Victoria have seen their councils release details on salary ranges and recruitment costs for new chief executives.

Ararat mayor Paul Hooper said councillors would likely vote to hear the entire matter in closed meetings.

“The search hasn’t started yet. It’s still subject to council discussion,” he said.

“There is quite a process involved in recruiting a chief executive.

“I’m an employer of 40 years’ experience and I would not discuss recruitment in public. In my view it would be inappropriate.”

Ararat’s chief executive Andrew Evans retired this month after seven years in the top role.

Mr Evans said he needed to take care of his sick wife.

Mr Hooper said the new chief executive’s remuneration would be published in the annual report.

Mr Evans’ remuneration package was up to $219,000.