Napier Harbor Board.

Hastings Standard, Issue 10, 7 May 1896, Page 3

Napier Harbor Board.

Fkom Our Own Correspondent.]

The Harbor Board met yesterday in order to receive and consider tenders for the extension of the breakwater, Hon.-J. I). Ormond in the chair. The following tenders were opened by the Chairman : McKenzie and Sons, Victoria, £•93,159. Jos. Saunders, Wellington, £7B,BSG 10s 2d. These tenders included keeping the contract in repair for six monthe after completion. The engineer's estimate amounted to £76,502 including £0,918 for contingencies show ing a difference in rough figures of £2OOO, between the estimate of the Wellington contractor and that of Mr Carr. Mr Carnell argued that if the engineer could do the work for so much less than the contractor it was the duty of the Board to save this money in the interests of the ratepayers. The Chairman—What if there is a disaster ? Captain Davidson pointed out that the engineer only allowed 10 per cent, for contingencies and these might amount to 20 or :»0, which would considerably increase Mr Carr's estimate. Mr Ryiiier thought the difference of £2OOO was nothing when the risk which the contractors took was considered. Mr Carnell considered it simply gambling, if day-labor were employed it would be well and efficiently done, whereas contractors always pushed things ahead to the detriment of the work. Captain Davidson : The Engineer will see to that. The Chairman said there was a balance in the bank of tGS,29B. He pointed out that there is power to diminish the contract by the amount that remains on hand as the work proceed-. Captain Davidson proposed, and Mr Va utier seconded, that the lowest tender be accepted. Mr Carnell proposed as an amendment, and Mr Neil seconded that no tender be accepted, and the work be done by dav-labor.

The amendment was lost, the proposer and seconder onlv voting for it. It was decided to relegate to the Works Committee the arrangements of the date of entering on the contract, the taking over of plant, and valuation of same, and to arrange with contractors for labour for the supply of steamers. The audited accounts were adopted.

It was resolved to hold the meetings of the Board in the Council Chambers for the future.

Captain Davidson considered the valuation of plant and machinery shown in Schedule A in the Annual Statement of Accounts ficticious. They should be reduced all round by onethird. It was decided that the Board revalue plant and machinery before next statement.

Mr Kinross White called attention to several misleading figures in the valuation of reserves.

The Chairman : It is generally understood that these values are imaginary. There was no valuation since the loan was floated ; but it had no bearing on accounts. It was decided to petition Government, pointing out the inconvenience to tenants on account of the question of title being delayed.

Mr C'arnell askdd if it were true that a man who hurt himself recently whilst in the employment of the Board had not received money from the Accident Find? Mr Can- : Yes; Morton received money from the men's fund. Mr C'arnell: Does not the Board insure against accident V Mr Carr: Yes ; but the man must apply, stating full particulars within a reasonable time.

The Clerk : If a man hurts himself owing to his carelessness, the Board are not responsible; but if a Harbour Board employe hurts another in tbe progress of bis work, or there is an accident owing to deficiency in machinery, the Board is liable according to the Act.