The Guardian (And Evening Star, with which is incorporated the West Coast Times.) MONDAY, JANUARY 18, 1937. LOCAL GOVERNMENT.

Hokitika Guardian, 18 January 1937, Page 4

The Guardian (And Evening Star, with which is incorporated the West Coast Times.) MONDAY, JANUARY 18, 1937. LOCAL GOVERNMENT.

The Local Government Amalgamation Schemes Bill is being accepted with the best grace possible by local bodies asked to consider their own extinguishment, and in more cases than one, groups of local bodies are meeting in the endeavour to consider ways and means of meeting the wishes of the Government. Actually it is a long delayed subject revived for consideration by a party which has shown much initiative in getting things done. The Department controlling the subject lias at its head a Minister or action, and lie has indicated his determination to put the compulsory clauses of the bill in motion, where the local bodies are not lending a helping hand. So far as Westland is concerned, the Minister has been advised of the intention to hold a preliminary meeting, and lie has expressed, \erv promptly, hearty approval of the proposal, and suggested be should be present at the conference. This has been acceded to, and the date now awaits the pleasure of the Minister. Some, local indication of the feeling oil the proposal was given * at a former meeting of the County Council, where a lead was given with the idea that Westland should be set apart as a complete unit under the proposed bill, and so retain full community of interest as at present. West-land County jvith its interior boroughs and local bodies is a considerable district. It extends from Big Bay in the south, to the Teremakau river in the north, being bounded on east hv the mountain range, while on the west, the ocean is the boundary. In this area there are no less than 4400 square miles, constituting the largest county area being administered in the Dominion. The district therefore lends j itself to the idea of an administrative j group, having scope enough for great I interior development. At the present the district is showing marked signs of expansion. The census revealed a good percentage increase in popula-

tion—quite as good as any in New Zealand. More country is being opened up, and industry is spreading south. With the mineral explorations going forward the district has the opportunity for ready expansion, while with the demand for the extension ol the railway gratified, a marked advance will take place in South Westland. Actually, therefore, the present is opportune for an effective review of local government, and the stage is so set that it is reasonable to look to the immediate future to show rapid advance. More, a concentrated form of local government it can be realised would be helpful. The smaller bodies are restricted in their operations and even vision. Joined with a larger concern able to operate with more freedom, each centre should be vitalised to a greater extent, and so assist local progress. The saving that unity is strength seems to have application in regard to a general fusion which would give more life and activity; to say nothing of a broader outlook on public affairs and interests. The Government is moving, it would appear at a very opportune time, and it is for the local bodies to lend their aid in assisting to bring about the reform so long dcsored, but so long delayed in local government.