FORMER ST. KILDA MAYOR

Evening Star, Issue 22336, 12 May 1936, Page 6

FORMER ST. KILDA MAYOR

MR JOHN BEATTIE HONOURED PRESENTATION OF SPECIAL MINUTE Recognition of Mr John Beattie’s past son ices to the borough as its mayor was contained in an illuminated minute, presented to him last night at an informal social function, held after the St. Kilda Council meeting. The minute read: “That on the retirement of John Beattie Esq., the St. Kilda Borough Council desires to place on record its appreciation of tile services rendered by him to the borough, ana in particular its recognition of the ability and industry displayed by him during his term as mayor from 1929 to 1934, and also of the splendid services ol the late Mrs Beattie as mayoress.” Making the presentation, Mr .1. .1. Marlow (mayor) spoke of Mr Beattie as a courteous and gentlemanly officer, who had earned the genuine esteem of the councillors who had served with him. That ratepayers, too, had respected him had been revealed in their expressions of confidence again and again at ibhe poll. During his term of office St. Kilda had shown considerable progress, and his ultimate resignation had been much regretted. It had therefore been the present council’s opinion that it would not be fair to allow his fine work for the borough to go unrewarded, so it had passed the resolution to be prepared and presented to one regarded by all as a sincere friend. Eulogies were added by Crs George Glue (deputy mayor), T. D. B. Roy (senior councillor), J. H. Hinton, N. I), Anderson, J, A. Carman, and Mr J. V. Trezise (town clerk). In reply, Mr Beattie said be joined the council in 1921, at a time when, having retired, he chose serving the borough as the best means of occupying his leisure. There was nothing finer for any person than to give his services to the community. At the first election in which he participated he was defeated, and he attributed this to the fact that he was not sufficiently known by electors. Subsequently he served 11 years on the council, the last five as mayor. He referred to the loyalty and goodwill always exhibited by bis comrades and to the fine support offered by the office and labouring staffs. As regards the ratepayers generally, he said he could not apeak too highly of their respect and assistance. Altogether, he had experienced an enjoyable—not to say enviable—term. When unemployment had accounted for some 200 St. Kilda men accepting relief work, he continued, there had been a lot of dissatisfaction and unpleasantness, caused principally by a band of agitators. However, the more sensible men had soon dispelled the offenders, and he himself had deemed it wise to mix with the workers, which act had engendered a feeling of confidence in the council and helped to disperse any remaining ilhvill. Such a state existed right up to the time of his retirement. He trusted tho council wmuld continue to carry out its good work, and make the borough (which was a picture at the present time, with its lawns and streets in good order) second to none in New Zealand. He expressed his satisfaction and pleasure at receiving the council’s gift, which he would value, he said, more highly because mention of his late wife had been incorporated in tbe resolution.

A further presentation was made by the mayor to Or Glue in appreciation of his services as deputy mayor during the illness of the late mayor (Mr H. H. Leary), and up till the time of the present mayor’s election. In accepting a fountain pen, aud a piece of crystal on behalf of his wile, Cr Glue said it had always been a pleasure to serve tho borough. Toasts to tho mayor the town clerk, the foreman (Mr John Clyma), am! the Press were also honoured.