DISCONTENT AT WATERVIEW.

Auckland Star, Volume LX, Issue 287, 4 December 1929, Page 9

DISCONTENT AT WATERVIEW.

ALLEGATIONS OP NEGLECT.

MEETING .OF RATEPAYERS

The City Council And Auckland Transport Board were sharply criticised last evening at a well-attended meeting of residents and ratepayers of Waterview,' Avondale, in the Methodist Hall. Allegations that the district had been neglected were made by a number of speakers, and resolutions were carried in respect to the transport and sanitary services.

The chairman, Mr. F. Craig, said the district was one of the most neglected in Auckland. The streets were mostly without footpaths and overgrown by gorse and blackberry at the sides. The Transport Board was criticised for alleged lack of consideration in allowing tlm Avondalfe buses to -be crowded out by Point Chevalier residents to the exclusion of Watervicw and Avondale passengers. The next point touched on was that of rates, the sanitary service charge being generally condemned.

Councillors Burton, Murray, and Lundoii were present, and each gave a short address. Councillor Burton was well received until ho told the meeting that they were better off under the city with regard to rates, which remark was greeted by cries of "No!" and "It's only the large owner who benefits." Mr. Murray thought that the sanitary service charge of £2 10/ per year on top of the increase ill general rates was an imposition.

Mr. Luudon also spoke about the neglect of tho district generally. He condemned' the sanitary service charge as extortionate, and claimed that the service itself was a relic of bygone and uncivilised times.

The following resolutions were carried:

1. That this meeting of residents and ratepayers petition the City Council to receive a deputation from the meeting to present the case for Waterview in regard to money spent in the district and sanitary service charge.

2. That a deputation wait on the Transport Board, asking that steps be taken to stop overcrowding of Avondale buses at peak hours by Point Chevalier residents, and also to ask the board's intention concerning transport to and from Waterview when the extension to Point Chevalier Hall is completed. Also that sections from Surrey Crescent to Station Road be reviewed on account of the short distance between them.

3. That the residents consult a solicitor with the object of making a test case of the sanitary service charge by the City Council.