TO THE EDITOR.

Marlborough Express, Volume XLV, Issue 59, 10 March 1911, Page 8

TO THE EDITOR.

Sir, —I think it may be fairly said that 1 am, an old resident of this district, although only middle-aged myself ; but being born here, and a resident here ever since, it is only natural that I should take an interest in the welfare of this town, so I shall be glad if you will grant me a little space in your valuable columns to put before the ratepayers what I believe to be the true position with regard to the proposed loan of £65,----4)00. I have read the reports of the various speakers who are in favor of this loan; but they do not seem to put the position fairly before the ratepayers. I have come to the following conclusion: Firstly, that we, are to mortgage our property to raise this loan of £65,000 by having a • rate struck on the unimproved value of the land in the Borough, to pay interest and sinking-fund, which means that our rates will be more than double what they are at present. • Secondly, every ratepayer who is connected with this drainage and watereupplv will have to pay for having the said connection, which I understand will be about £25 or' more for an ordinary four or five-roomed house. Then there is the water and drainage' rate each year for the upkeep and working expenses to be paid by all those who use the same. I think, Sir, this is the true position :' if not, I should be glad if one of, those who are in favor of this scheme -will correct and put me right".

LAURITZ HOMES