CIVIC AFFAIRS

Bay of Plenty Beacon, Volume 15, Issue 98, 20 September 1950, Page 4

CIVIC AFFAIRS

Sir, —Congratulations on your timely editorial regarding the Mayoralty of Whakatane. Twenty-five years without an election certainly does show a very unhealthy state of civic affairs and this is definitely evidenced by \ the lack of sanitation in our Borough and by the use of the waterfront as a garbage tip and the appalling state at times of the water supply.

Surely there is in our midst some man of energy and ability who is prepared to come forward publicspiritedly and in the real interests of our town and give the other chap a run for his money instead of letting him walk in, as in the past, unopposed. Some people may wish to vote against him, how can they with no one to vote for. Unhealthy? Yes, very. Surely Whakatane has reached the stage when an election can be fought without personalities and hard feelings, if not, let us take at least one step towards civic progress and find a man who can fight and win and do something about the unhealthy state of things, without “treading on someone’s toes,” for in that impression seems to be the reason for

the lack of a nomination. “1 don’t like to tread on so and so’s toes.” If so and so can’t take it this unhealthy Istate will continue for may be another 25 years, and another election will pass without giving the man in jthe street- a chance to decide for himself. Whakatane nee v ds a blood transfusion to stimulate the public interest and help it shake off that lethargic middle-aged—it is one of the oldest statements in New Zealand—spread, that is so unhealthy. Yours etc., “ONE WHO WANTS A CHANCE TO VOTE.” Whakatane, September 18. (Our leading article was not a criticism of the past administration of the Borough.—Ed.)