The mayor of a remote Northern Territory region is stepping down while he faces drug charges laid this week.
Barkly Mayor Jeffrey McLaughlin was arrested and charged with drug driving as well as possessing, cultivating and supplying cannabis on Monday.
Police allege the 42-year-old tested positive to the drug in a roadside test in Tennant Creek on Monday.
They allege officers then seized "a number of cannabis plants and material" at a nearby home.
Barkly Regional Council chief executive Emma Bradbury said Cr McLaughlin started personal leave on Tuesday afternoon to address personal matters.
Cr McLaughlin said in a statement the council needed to serve the community.
"For me to continue in working as the public face of council through this time will detract from our work," the statement reads.
Ms Bradbury said the council supported the mayor's decision.
Deputy Mayor Dianne Stokes is set to act in the position until further notice.
