TWELVE candidates seeking a place on Warrnambool City Council's seven-seat table have a month to woo voters before polling closes.
Six of them are incumbents, one is a former councillor, another has tried twice before and four are newcomers.
All have ambitions to make their mark on helping steer the city's direction.
So what are some of the issues they will face?
Foremost will be to form a team that can work in harmony with a variety of skills and viewpoints.
Over the past four years there have been deep divisions and lack of unity with perceptions of a 5-2 voting pattern.
Twice the Local Government Inspectorate has been called in to investigate leaks of confidential information.
City finances will be a huge challenge for the new council team with a $4.8 million bill due to be paid from July for the defined benefits superannuation scheme shortfall.
They will have to determine to either increase rates and charges or cut spending.
The three Rs - roads, rates and rubbish - will figure highly in decision-making, but councillors will need to be aware of the city's growth needs and keep their focus on big picture strategic planning.
Postal voting will close on October 26 and results will be declared from October 28.
The new team will be inducted on November 12.