EX-MAYOR MACGIBBON AND THE COUNTY.

Mataura Ensign, Issue 1036, 22 May 1902, Page 2

EX-MAYOR MACGIBBON AND THE COUNTY.

TO THE EDITOR. Sib,—Mr A. A. Mac Gibbon takes exception to remarks I made at the last meeting of the County Council anent the Council bping /blamed in certain quarters for blocking the Government subsidy towards the trnflic bridge, and reiterates the statement that I previously took exception to He also about the County being compelled by law to assist this work. Granted; but does he forget being one of a deputation (as Mayor) from the Gore Borough to meet myself (when County chairman) and two of my colleagues to discuss the question of allocation of financial responsibilities between the two bodies, so as to prevent a repetition of those who materially assist in making Gore the prosperous town it is—the County ratepayers—frittering their money away in the law Courts? During a brief consultation it was agreed that the bodies interested should contribute a certain quota, and that the Government should be asked for a substantial subsidy. Further, the County delegates agreed to have the work carried out by the bridge gang, which meant, as the Gore delegates acknowledged, a considerable saving. This friendly arrangement, faithfully carried out bv the County, is met by a remark by the ex-Mayor that the law can be invoked on behalf of the Borough to compel the County to contribute its share! Does he forget that the whole disbursements (over £000) in connection with a Borough work have been borne by the County, and not a copper, so far. has been reimbursed it by the Borough or the Government? The County wired for the vote, knowing that every sixpence of that vole, in equity and according to arrangements made, had to come to its coffers. If the County had attempted to block the vote, the County would have been a loser. There was never any doubt about the vote not being paid. It was merely a question of paying it in a round about or a direct way.—l am, etc., I. W. RaYSIO.NI).