What of the future? The election has given a new council a mandate to make better use of their money, lower rates, improve consultation and accountability, lift performance, enhance basic services, provide a better environment.

Five new switched-on councillors with two independently-minded returned councillors collected 82 per cent of the vote. That gives residents hope. There is consistency with their promises. If their word is true, the following will be high priority; many are basic to benefit you.

Council committed to Easter event as NYE fireworks pulled

Councillors will consult, and promote residents' ideas. The belief is residents lead change, rather than officers, special interests, government, and UN influence.

Expect less stitched-up decisions before council meetings, and a return to accountable Ward meetings. Budgets that accept rate restrictions. Indulgent projects, non-essential services, and staffing will be checked. A refocus on suburbs, rural areas, and small-towns. Improved attention to footpaths, drainage and roads. Revitalisation of parks, recreation facilities, and activity paths. Kerbside collections and tip vouchers are possible.

Councillors will question processes and expect the organisation to set targets, be more transparent, accountable and cost-effective, and improve decision-making and planning. Anticipate another independent external review. Value-added economic development, healthier lifestyles, our natural environment, and a sustainable future will receive improved attention.

A range of sleeper priorities remain.

A better balance to serve all 19 local industry sectors is necessary coming out of COVID-19. Must council wear the $12M business losses of theatres, galleries, tourism attractions, and carparks? Without clear financial analysis 60 tourism/arts staff are prioritised over small business and sectors like construction, manufacturing, agriculture and retail.

Avoid foisted government staff positions for which ratepayers ultimately pay, and will council charging towards 200,000 people destroy its vision to "create the world's most liveable community"?

Council continues to disregard the city's deep drug and alcohol problems that limit economic growth and cause most social problems.

There is so much more. What is council's purpose? Conduct a public debate on what the election results mean for council's direction. Seek to find what is essential, what must change, and what is missing.

Despite the will of the people, change will be difficult. There is an injustice about that. There will be compromises.

Councillors, don't fall for smulching - special interests' smooth smothering spin. Residents are dependent upon you being strong, consultative, inquisitive, and investigative; not simply someone rolled into the fold. Remember your electorate.

Have you signed up to the Bendigo Advertiser's daily newsletter and breaking news emails? You can register below and make sure you are up to date with everything that's happening in central Victoria.