OPUNAKE POWER BOARD.

Hawera Star, Volume XLVII, 17 May 1928, Page 7

OPUNAKE POWER BOARD.

THE MONTH'S OPERATIONS

OK DIN All Y 'MEETING. At the monthly meeting of the Opunake I'owei’ hoard yestertiay there were present: Messrs G. Goouwin (chairman), C. A. Trotter, >J. Hickey, J. P. Burton, .1. 8. Tosland, and \\ . L. r. Chambers. Leave of absence was granted Mr. E. A. Collins. The engineer, Mr. M. H. Jlason, repui ted that during the month Lho water .mpph increased isntliciently to allow the Lad to be run continuously as iar as E'ungarehu. The a hole area was taken o\er on April 28, and owing to a breakdown at New Plymouth the assistance of the board was given by suppling current as far as Ornate. The water heating load was reconnected on Apiil 28 and May 1. A further shortage in the water ‘supply had compelled the closing of the plant from Mav If to May 14.

One air break switch had been, erected at Rahotu. The reconstruction of the line to Mn Watson’s property, Ruakere Road, was proceeding. Some of the 26ft poles removed would be used on the Upper Newell Hoad, where a small extension was required. In reply to Mr. Chambers, the engineer said it was usual to estimate the increase in consumption at 15 per cent annually. Mr. Tosland said the hoard would need to be in a. position to meet the increased demand. All further connections would be paid out of revenue, and-a report- should be available showing the capacity of the scheme. The chairman expressed the opinion that the main part of the increase would come from the district already served, not from fresh areas. The outer area had been well served in reticulation.

The- clerk was instructed to prepare estimates 1 of revenue and expenditure, to be submitted to a sub-committee consisting of Messrs. Goodwin, Chambers and Tosland’for recommendation's to next meeting. The request for concessions for church lighting made hy Mr. G. Gibson was received, and it was resolved that at present the hoard could not grant the concession.

Tn committee the appointment of a permanent engineer was considered, and it was reported that applications for the position at a salary of £375 pc annum would he called. This concluded the business. and after passing accounts the hoard adjourned.