Ottawa's chief local politican says he plans to take Christmas to reflect upon his priorities before deciding whether to run for mayor again in 2010.

In an interview with CTV Ottawa, Mayor Larry O'Brien said he needs to talk with his family as he makes the decision.

"After I get back from the Christmas holidays, I hope to say what I plan to do," he added.

O'Brien is expected to face several competitors for the chair if he does decide to run. Councillors Alex Cullen, Peter Hume and Diane Deans have all publicly pondered taking a run for the position.

There has already been much contention between these councillors over the 2010 budget. As it stands now, property taxes will rise by close to four per cent as transit services are cut back, green bins implemented and Crime Prevention Ottawa cut.

The budget will be finalized after further negotiations in January.