Cr Olsen, who has served on the council for more than 20 years, says Cessnock needs a change.

"I have seen our council lose its way and contact with the ratepayers," he said.

"Our priorities never match what the residents are asking for and if we don't change decision-making we will only lose more of our local identity.

"We continue to take far too long to complete works, and so many roads fail within months of completion without any changes to the process on how we complete our work.

"It's time to get value for money and have a plan that will benefit the majority.

"Cessnock's future relies on change and passionate independent councillors."

Cessnock West Newsagency owner Gayle Black will be the independent team's lead candidate in Ward A, with Cr Olsen running in Ward B.

North Rothbury community service worker Dan Watton will be the Ward C candidate, and Abermain furniture delivery business owner Paul Paynter will run in Ward D.

Cr Olsen said the team's number two and three candidates will be announced later this year.

"I believe we have a good balance of candidates who are passionate about our future and a new Cessnock," he said.

The NSW local government elections will be held on September 4, 2021, having been delayed by 12 months due to the COVID-19 pandemic.