I saw this on Facebook last evening and incorporated it into my email to Taupo Councillors. I think it is good advice for every current and wannabe Councillor and Mayor in New Zealand.
We as ratepayers also want certainty….
Certainty that rates will be used for improving infrastructure
Certainty that you won’t do undemocratic deals behind our backs
Certainty that there will be open disclosure on all transactions where ratepayers monies are spent
Certainty that if you have a pet project it’s fully costed, capped and the benefits for the community are clearly identified.
Certainty that unelected officials can’t impose their own ideological dreams and wishes on ratepayers.
Feel free to add any other requirements of Mayors and Councillors in the comments.
No Minister 
Certainty that there will be an end to co-governance and unelected Maoris on councils – or is that too much to hope for?
The upcoming referenda on Maori Wards gives some hope in this area. But, it is going to need a stronger, more motivated Local Government Minister than Simon Watts to stop the Co Governance agenda of Councils.
Plus a stronger Prime Minister than Luxon to get the Local Government Minister off his shiny arse.