Palmerston North - a city of more than 90,000 people - is facing some hefty issues.
A new wastewater scheme could cost nearly half a billion dollars, there is a shortage of housing, and the city's pot hole plague is causing widespread consternation.
But turnout in recent local body elections has been poor, and the trend shows no sign of improving this year.
Here's Manawatū reporter Jimmy Ellingham.
