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Hokitika Guardian, 25 May 1933, Page 4

The local bodies cf the district have a ere a liable record for the conduct oi tneir buain-ass in a seemly manner. Tins is particularly true ot the Westland County Uouncil, the members of uhicn may do considered a happy family. '•’Urns view seemed to 00 «m----pmisised at yesterday's "meeting when easiness was nttpatoned with celerity, ancl mil good humour, even thougli there were differences of opinion at times. No doubt a good deal of the smoothness with uhwh the business of the local bodies is run, is due to the tactful conduct of the presiding chairman. Yesterday the Westland County Council parted with Mr Murdoch as Chairman, lafter a useful year of office. Thai gentleman is a useiui member of any local body, and his association with the County Council for the past quarter of a century, must have been most useful to that body and its members. Mr Murdoch’s services were warmly eulogised by his fellow councillors who have had the best opportunity of judging his work, and it is not surprising the several speakers were very eulogistic. As the principal local body of the district, the County Council plays an important part in-the general welfare and it is important its business should be ably directed, In Mr Murdoch there was a well equipped leader, and a useful. year’s work was performed, The ratepayers would be interested to note •that the Council is gtjil carrying on with a rate of one penny. This is easily the lowest rate in West Coast ■County government, and that ft is possible to achieve that good result most be due in a large measure to the ear.r.ible direction of the internal affairs over the year. In Mr Jeffries selected unanimously yesterday, Mr Murdoch has a well qualified successor who is capable of a useful year of service a.s the head of the County Council. Mr Jeffries has had wis, 3 , experience in local government administration, and may be expected to give sound service. The people of the. Westland County are certainly well served by their representatives, and excellent choice is made year by year in the selection of the executive officer of the Council.