PALM TREES

Bay of Plenty Times, Volume LXV, Issue 12258, 23 February 1937, Page 2

PALM TREES

XOT TO UK CUT DOWN Cr McFarlane proposed the following motion, of which notice had been given, at last night’s meeting of the Borough Council —That the Council rescind the motion passed on August 12, 193 6, referring to the removal of the palm trees in Wharf Street, viz., “that the matter be referred to the Town Planning Committee for consideration.” In moving the motion Cr McFarlane said the Works Committee, at the meeting of the Council on the 10th inst., recommended that the trees be removed. It was contemplated by the Engineer that the high tension electric wires would be brought down Wharf Street. Cr Dailies seconded. Cr McKinnon asked if an alterative route could be provided for the new line. Mr Boak replied that if a route down Hamilton Street and along Willow Street were adopted it would mean bringing the heavy lines in front of the Municipal Buildings. Cr Matheson' explained that some time ago a suggestion was made to cut down the trees but the Council had decided against that and the trees had been trimmed. Cr Youngman opposed the motion for the removal of the trees. Some time ago the Council decided against cutting down the palms. One of the charms of Tauranga was the beauty of its trees and the Council should explore every possible means with a view to obviating the removal of the palms. To cut them down would be an act of wanton destruction. Cr lies opposed the removal of the trees, and agreed with the remarks of Cr Youngman. He believed the time was approaching when they would have to consider the method of placing the electric cables underground. The Council had adopted that system t in connection with the latest lighting system on the waterfront. Cr McKinnon fell that there might be a way out and that the Engineer might find it. He contended that the trees should be retained. The Mayor, Mr L. R. Wilkinson, said as Chairman of the Electricity Committee, he was in the dark in regard to the matter. He would oppose the cutting down of the trees. Cr McFarlane said 'the Works Committee had recommended the removal of the trees. He was the Chairman of that Committee and had submitted the recommendation of the Committee but was left in the air. He was only carrying out the instructions of the Committee and did not wish to press the matter. With the consent of his seconder he would be agreeable to withdraw the motion. The Mayor ruled that the motion could, only be withdrawn by consent of the Council. Cr Allely said the residents of Wharf Street wanted the trees removed.

Cr McFarlane's motion was put and negatived.