The Guardian And Evening Star, with which is incorporated the West Coast Times. TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 1935. CIVIC PRIDE.

Hokitika Guardian, 19 February 1935, Page 4

The Guardian And Evening Star, with which is incorporated the West Coast Times. TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 1935. CIVIC PRIDE.

The present year will lie notable f°r a number ol r elections. In addition to the paraliumentary election, due to be held at tlie end of the year, the municipal and county, and other local body emotion's, are to be held in May. Nauirahy local interest will he aroused in the several districts, while in regal'd to the mayoralty, the latest legislature now extends the term oi office to three years—similar to that of the councillors. The local bodies of this district have a good record. Much loyal service is given to the public, and though all actions or courses are not approved we may take it that llie members are acting according to their rights, or to the information specially before them. It is good to have a robust civic spirit, and as far as the town is concerned 'it was never more necessary. The town is expanding in size and population. More houses are appearing in different localities, calling for access and conveniences. The prospects generally arc very good for this district, and a forward policy in municipal affairs would not be amiss. In particular, the s tate of the water works and supply are calling for very urgent attention. Considering the opinions expressed by the man in the street, we ■should say that the public desiye -a complete overhaul .and revision of the water system, and wish it placed beyond question for the necessary service it has to perform in regard to domestic use, tire prevention, hygiene and necessities. Naturail.v it is a large, issue, but the coming polling will centre round the willingness and ability of candidates to deal whole-heartedly with the proposition. No doubt the council will have export advice, and give thought also to the costs involved, hut the essential feature i s urgency in coming to a decision. Much will depend on the leadership offered the Council, which throws a responsibility on the Mayor. The present occupant has indicated decisive action in the 1 mattei", which is approved generally, but there should not be any dallying by the way. For detail work I) V the Council there is need for a more active policy in general civic improvements. Cass Square is such an asset to the town, that it should have special attention in regard to improvements. The extension of the water services to the back streets, now being considered for buildings i s another obligation on the Council. A good deal of public opinion has been ventilated about the control of the sea beach, and candidates must give that question definite attention. I'or the present year, the rates were increased without any official explanation, unless 'f he to meet the cost of repairs to the water works. It is not a popu-

lar act to increase rates at election time, anil candidates will he expected to explain their views on a matter which touches all the people. Bound up with the municipal affairs, is the town representation on the Hospital and Harbour Boards. Both bodies—the former particularly is very busy—and the latter is showing some signs of necessary activity—will be expected to maintain the record activity. The County elections have not created any stir as yet, but probably there will lie contests in the three Ridings. The Council appears to have pursued the even tenor of its way on a very lowrating —action which will commend it to the ratepayers generally. The policy in regard to road sealing was taken up readily by the Council, indicating a progressive spirit, and a willingness to co-operate for the general benefit. Probably wlien polling . time has arrived there will not ho many changes in the personnel of the local council.