BOARD OR COUNCIL?

Evening Post, Volume CXIII, Issue 142, 17 June 1932, Page 8

BOARD OR COUNCIL?

F;(R|:oBRIiWPE:: rgo NTRbfr

MATTER ; OF, EFFICIENCY

From the viewpoint of efficiency alone, it was agreed at to-day's meeting of the Wellington Fire Board that board control of the fire brigade was superior to City Council controL

The matter arose out of a remark by Councillor B. Semple that while ho was in Nelson recently the formation of a fire board there had. been mentioned to him and he had been asked for information as to the means of effecting the change-over. It was decided that the secretary (Mr. 11. S. Fairehild) should supply the necessary information.

Mr. Fairchild: "The question is rather awkward. They usually ask if it has any advantages over City Council control."

Councillor F. Meadoweioft (to Councillor Semple): "You did not advise them to change?" Councillor Semple: "I gave them no advice at all."

"It is certainly a much, cheaper proposition to .the municipality,", remarked Mr. M. Marks, i , Mr. G. G. Edwards: "It is very doubtful. I should 3ay it is much more expensive." 0 i Mr. Marks said that when people complained that they were now paying more than when the changeover waa made, they-should-remember the difference in the fire-fighting appliances. The main point was' that the appliances were more efficient than' they were under council control," said Councillor Semple. - ' - The • chairman (Mr/ 'N. ■ Nelson): "There is no question about that." "We would not take over half of the council's equipment," said Mr. S. S. Deaiij Councillor Meadowcroft said' a fire board was the right thing, provided its members were suitable.

Mr. Deanr'^There is only one thing. If they .form a; Nelson , Fire Board I hope'they don-'t ask me to go, on it. V (Laughter). ;. .. . L ,'.