COUNCIL AND BOARD

Hutt News, Volume 20, Issue 3, 19 December 1945, Page 8

COUNCIL AND BOARD

CHARGE FOIt FIIIE FIGHTING The Lower Hutt City Council asked *the Hutt Valley Electric Power Board, at its last meeting, for a rebate on a charge made i'or extra water-power to figlit a fire on the Point Howard hills last month. Mr. J. W. Andrews said the fire was outside the city area, and by the use of the extra pump the pow'er lines, which were in danger, were saved, therefore he thought it was unfair for the council to be debited with the extra rate. The extra draw of water was mainly i'or the protection of the board's property. Mr. 11. Yaldwyn said that the board's property was undoubtedly in 'danger from five. ! Mr. I. R. Robinson, general man*ager, stated that owing t6 the change 1 from the unit rate to the K.V.A. rate made some years ago,' the council had been saved a considerable sum. The recent fire was the first occasion on which it was found necessary to run the two pumps. He j could not recommend a rebate, as it would establish a dangerous precedent. At the same time the board was under an obligation to the council. After a long discussion it was dec ded, on the motion of the chaii'man, Mr. H. Green, that the general manager's action be approved, but that a grant of £40 be paid to the C* ly Council for services rendered.