DEVONPORT BOROUGH COUNCIL.

Auckland Star, Volume LXIII, Issue 124, 27 May 1932, Page 12

DEVONPORT BOROUGH COUNCIL.

The Mayor, Mr. H. F. W. Meikle presided at the regular meeting ot the Devonport Borough Council. Sinking Funds—The council resolved to co-operate with the Blenheim Borough Council in urging upon the Minister the need of the postponing of sinking funds for at least two years. The Mayor stated if such recommendation was brought about it would mean a reduction in rates to an extent of £4000. There was no suggestion of repudiation. ',-.•„ Assessor .-The town clerk, Mr. A. E. Wilson, reported that Mr. R. N. Melville s nomination was received for the position of assessor, together with another who withdrew his nomination at the eleventh hour. Mr. Melville was appointed. The Mayor stoutly condemned the position which the Act placed councils in. He was of the opinion that the council was in the best position to make the appointment. He further contended that the candidate responsible for causing the expense should be compelled to pay for it. It was decided to bring the matter before the Minister. Ngataringa Road.—The North Devonport Ratepayers' Association made representation to the council to carry out the widening of Ngataringa Road, between Lake and Wesley Streets. The council agreed to have a report made by the engineer. Awards.—The Devonport postmaster advised the council that wages on relief works were not subject to awards.

Cutting Firewood.—The postmaster advised that permission was obtained for the cutting of firewood under No. 5 scheme. The wood was to be distributed by the Central Relief Association. Devonport Band.—A request made for the usual subsidy of £25 was declined. Croquet Club.—Following upon a deputation requesting council to supply bricks for the croquet club, the council agreed to deliver 3000 for the erection of a pavilion. Unemployed.—The engineer, Mr. A. T. Griffiths, reported that 253 men were engaged upon relief works. He also reported that quarrying operations on the council's property at Takapuna had revealed some excellent metal.