A local businessman says he's close to making up his mind about putting his hand for the looming election to choose Geelong’s first popularly elected mayor.

KEITH FAGG says he's been approached by several people to run for the top job and he’ll be making his final decision soon.

So far the only confirmed contender is current Geelong mayor and professional train driver JOHN MITCHELL.

But global paparazzi king and former Geelong photographer DARRYN LYONS says he'll be returning home soon and will announce whether he intends to run.

He says whatever he decides, this time he’s returning to Geelong for good.

News that LYONS is considering standing for the mayor’s role was a hot topic on BayFM’s Facebook page when it was revealed exclusively by the Morning Crew two weeks ago.

Picture: Geelong businessman Keith Fagg