Former NRL touch judge Gary Lee will run number three under mayoral candidate Peter Blackmore and Arch Humphery - both running for their second terms - to represent central ward on Maitland City Council in the March 27 polls.

Mr Lee, who stood down last year as Maitland Chamber of Commerce president, has chalked up years of experience working in finance, which he believes would stand him in good stead as a councillor.

"I believe I have the necessary financial knowledge that would be of assistance to the council and the community," Mr Lee said.

Cr Blackmore believes Mr Lee, as one of the country's leading touch judges in one of the toughest sports, would ensure "the rules were adhered to".

Mr Lee, Cr Blackmore and Cr Humphery will run as independent candidates.

If elected, they have vowed to commit the council to better maintenance of the city's sports fields.

Cr Humphery wanted to raise the standard of facilities to bring world-class sporting events to the city - especially after Maitland missed out on hosting a rugby union team during the World Cup last year, while Cr Blackmore wanted more recreational infrastructure.

"We'll be actively looking at introducing walking trails - I'd like to see something in Maitland Park and something on the riverbank from Walka Water Works around to Morpeth," Cr Blackmore said.

A new city library was also an issue, especially with the city's new civic precinct, incorporating Maitland Regional Gallery, up and running.

But while they have big ideas, the major aim for the group was to provide stability in the local government for the city's residents.

"When you think the previous council was sacked, I believe we have provided a stable and efficient council - both with council officers and councillors - particularly in an increased period of development," Cr Blackmore said. "We have also delivered firm policy development and sound economic management."