MUNICIPAL FINANCE.

King Country Chronicle, Volume XVIII, Issue 1778, 1 March 1923, Page 4

MUNICIPAL FINANCE.

The very much improved financial position of the Borough finances is a matter of congratulation to the ratepayers and all who were instrumental in bringing about such a satisfactory state of things. The Council during the last ten years has had a very anxious and worrying time in keeping the overdraft within bounds, and the retiring Council has every reason to be prdud of the fact that the expiry of their term of office has left the affairs of the ratepayers in such a healthier state.

While the Mayor and Councillors have done much in this matter, their efforts would not have had the same results if it had not been for the hearty co-operation of the Town Clerk and his staff. The collecting of rates is a work calling for firm and at the same time diplomatic methods, but to gather in arrears is even more difficult, and the Mayor’s tribute to the Town Clerk at the last Council meeting was well deserved.

The finances of the Borough having been set on a satisfactory basis, it should be the aim of all to maintain them so in the future. To enable this to be done, all ratepayers must realise their responsibilities as citizens, and what is expected of them. This is a town of which all residents should be proud, but there is still much to be done—works of a utilitarian nature, as well as making provision for beautifying the town in many ways. Money is required for this purpose, and the people have to provide it in the way of rates. The rates collected are used for the benefit of those who pay, and also those who don’t pay, and the defaulters in this respect are reaping benefits to which they are not entitled. There is yet a large amount of rates overdue, and the Council has no option but to press for payment of these.

The present state of things, as shown by the recent figures given by the Town Clerk, proves that the town’s financial condition is healthier than it has been for years. If that standard can be maintained we may look for progress in every direction, for the financial status of the Borough has reached a standard in outside circles which it has not enjoyed for some time past.