TWO people have confirmed they will be contesting the election for Division 2 to replace Kevin Collins.

Former mayor Mario Demartini has said he would stand.

Cr Kevin Collins' resignation comes into effect next Monday and he is encouraging everyone to support Mr Demartini.

Mr Demartini said that with his 14 years experience in Local Government, he believed he could contribute valuable experience and stability.

"It is not my intent to comment on any issues regarding Cr Collins' resignation and I feel it would be inappropriate to comment on any Council issues at this stage," he said.

Former deputy mayor Rogin Taylor will also contest the election.

Mr Taylor was defeated at the last election by Cr Collins.

Mr Taylor says that if elected, he will vote to remove the $140 annual levy and return the 10 per cent early payment discount on rates "that could mean hundreds of dollars of savings to every ratepayer".

He has also promised to vote for "more reasonable water charges" and ballot booth voting for all elections.

Former Whitsunday Ratepayers Association (WRA) president Andrew Finlay has announced via social media that he may contest the election.

Meanwhile, Cr Collins has said he believes anyone opposing Demartini would be wasting their money and time.

"It would be a great mark of respect and unity as well as saving the community the inconvenience of a by-election to see Mr Demartini elected unopposed for the balance of this term," he said.

Mayor Jennifer Whitney said she would be prepared to work with whoever the community voted in.

Mr Demartini (520 primary votes) came second to Cr Collins (656 primarty votes) in the last election for Division 2 in 2012.