Zaryd Wilson
Michael Feyen is already making plans to deliver the shake-up he says the Horowhenua District has asked for.
He holds a narrow lead over four-term mayor Brendan Duffy with only special votes to be counted.
"I campaigned on representing the people... so that governance sets the direction and management implements it," he said.
"I think not only in this council but councils in general, it's been management that have been setting the direction and just getting us to tick the boxes. Governance needs to resume control of councils."