New York City Council has agreed to let its mayor, Michael Bloomberg, run for a third term in office. Beyond City Hall the decision has been met with resistance, with the council being accused of breaching public trust and acting undemocratically.

By a vote of 29-22, the council passed a bill that gives holders of office the option of three consecutive four-year terms. Existing law limits them to two terms, and Bloomberg's concludes at the end of next year.

When Bloomberg left City Hall after the vote he was greeted by a dozen or so hecklers who yelled “Sellout!” and “Get in your limousine and get the hell out of town!”

According to polls, 89 per cent of New Yorkers would prefer referendum on the issue, not a city council decision. Internet forums and in blogs are already full of comments expressing dissatisfaction with the decision.

Bloomberg announced his plans to seek re-election three weeks ago. He said he is the person to efficiently govern the city of New York amid the financial crisis and to face its challenges The proposal survived a last-minute court challenge from opponents seeking to block the council from voting.

The New York Mayor intends to spend $US 80 million on the election campaign, a budget that gives virtually no chance to his rivals, Anthony Weiner and William Thompson.