Bob Bratina is on the way out as mayor but his days as a federal Liberal candidate are just warming up.

Bratina has officially been approved as a potential candidate for the Grits in the riding of Hamilton East-Stoney Creek - and it doesn't look like he'll be facing a contested nomination.

Riding president Vito Sgro says given the timelines involved for filling out papers, he's 99 per cent sure Bratina will be acclaimed later this month.

"I believe he is the only candidate. I don't believe anyone else has been 'green lit.'"

Bratina, who has previously considered running for the Liberals, revealed he was seeking the nomination in August.

He steps down as mayor in early December when the new mayor and council elected on Oct. 27 are sworn in.

Hamilton East-Stoney Creek has been held by New Democrat MP Wayne Marston since 2006.

The Liberals have high hopes a name candidate like Bratina, 70, will give their fortunes a boost at the polls. The next federal election is scheduled for Oct. 19, 2015.

The nomination meeting is on Oct 29 at 6:30 p.m. at the Renaissance Centre, 2289 Barton St. E.