The purpose of the Horowhenua District Council is to enable democratic local decision making to promote the social, economic, environmental and cultural well being of the Horowhenua District in the present and for the future. Council is made up of the Mayor and 10 Councillors (elected members). They are responsible for determining local policy and legislation, and defining the overall vision for the Horowhenua District. Council makes decisions on behalf of the ratepayers and residents. In meeting its purpose, the Horowhenua District Council has a variety of roles: Facilitating solutions to local needs Advocacy on behalf of the local community with central government, other local authorities and other agencies Management of local infrastructure including network infrastructure (eg roading, water supply, waste disposal, libraries, parks and recreational facilities) Environmental management planning for the current and future needs of the local district.