INCREASE IN RATES.

Auckland Star, Volume LXIV, Issue 189, 12 August 1933, Page 6

INCREASE IN RATES.

HENDERSON TOWN BOARD. EXPLANATION TO RATEPAYERS. Considerable interest in_ local affairs was shown by a large audience of Henderson ratepayers at a meeting held in the Town Hall 011 Thursday night to hear a statement of the finances of the district l>y the chairman, Mr. H. Norcross. The statement revealed that the financial position is precarious, but definite measures arc being taken to remedy it. The chairman said the meeting had been called to put the district's financial affairs before the ratepayers, many of whom might be sceptical of the necessity for the proposed increase of rates from B£d to 1/ in the f. Figures covering 1932 and 1933 were submitted, showing the relative position at the close of each year. Rates outstanding at March, 1933, were £4780, an increase of £700 on the previous year. Mr. Norcross stressed that the estimates for the current year were based solely on the year's requirements. The ratable valuation of the district had dropped from £130,000 in 1930 to £100,000 in 1933, but commitments remained substantially the same. Interest and sinking funds, together with hospital levy and street lighting charges called for an amount this year equivalent to BJd in the £. He detailed the ordinary expenditure allowed for, and showed that rigid economy had been the rule for the last three years. Mr. A. W. Bussey, a former chairman and present member of the board, endorsed the remarks of the chairman. He deprecated the spirit of optimism which in past years had led not only individuals, but local bodies and even governments into expenditure which today was a burden. He felt that the ratepayers should be satisfied that the steps taken to straighten out the district's finances this year were inevitable and would be beneficial in the future. Messrs. Carey and Garelja, members of the board, spoko in similar terms, Mr. Carey outlining the effect of the drop in valuation over the district: Letters of apology were received from Messrs. J. H. Lee and Hansen, for their inability to be present, and endorsing the programme for the coming year. The chairman said it was gratifying that the board was unanimous concerning the necessity for the increased rates. Questions were answered concerning various phases of the board's activities, and some satisfaction was expressed at the action of the board in placing the facts before the ratepayers. A vote of thanks was carried by acclamation.