Personal differences will have to be put aside for the common good, and Mr McDouall set the tone for that with a strong opening, knowing that his leadership is likely to determine how well the team comes together. His legal, political and diplomatic skills will come in handy.
The acceptance of his choice of Jenny Duncan as deputy mayor was a positive start.
The mayor was also very clear on his expectations of the standards of behaviour around the council chamber. Respectful communication was imperative, and there was a nod to the dangers that social media could pose to relationships.
He also put the nagging wastewater treatment plant issue out front, along with the genuine concern over the affordability of Whanganui's rates.
So the challenges were acknowledged and understood - but so was the belief that significant successes could be achieved by this council; that growing prosperity was attainable; that the district was moving forward to a brighter future.
The robe and chain seemed a good fit.
And he didn't once have to say: "I've started ... so I'll finish."
