It's time these expensive functionaries we're removed from office and democracy was returned to Tauranga. The excuse used by Nanaia Mahuta for their retention is that there are no suitable candidates for election to the council. How on earth does she know that? If she's worried about the quality of those likely to stand I would suggest she take a close look at the quality of those currently governing the country, herself included.

A Gawith, Mount Maunganui.