Ann Arbor may soon be saying goodbye to Mayor John Hieftje.

According to the Michigan Information and Research Service, Hieftje is one of three finalists being considered by Gov. Jennifer Granholm for the next chairman of the Michigan Public Service Commission. If appointed, Hieftje would leave his mayoral position to begin a six-year term overseeing the state's use of energy, telecommunications and transportation.

City Council member Chris Easthope (D-Ward 5) is the mayor pro tem and would step in as mayor for the remainder of Hieftje's term.

Hieftje said he was encouraged to apply for the position several weeks ago after meeting with several environmentalists from around the state. If appointed, his hopes to continue promoting renewable energy and energy conservation.

Heiftje began the Mayor's Green Energy Challenge in September 2005 that calls for the use of 30 percent of renewable energy by 2010. He said the city is already using 18 percent renewable energy.

"I've been concerned about environmental issues for a long time," he said.

Heiftje said he hopes to bring the goal of the program, along with the city's increased use of energy-saving LED lights, to the state level.

"I think there's a role for me to play at the state," he said.

Michelle Begnoche, a spokeswoman for Granholm, said the governor hopes to announce an official appointment soon.