A MERRY XMAS

Manawatu Times, Volume XLXI, Issue 3480, 14 December 1926, Page 7

A MERRY XMAS

COUNCILLORS GUEST OP MAYOR. At tho conclusion of the Borough Council meeting last evening, Councillors. heads of departments, and fno Press representatives, were tho guests of the Mayor (Mr. F. J. Nathan) at supper, when the latter took tho opportunity of extending to all present, best wishes for a merry Christmas and happy Now Year. Mr. Nathan also referred to the fact that he would not be contesting the Mayoralty again, but hoped that many of the Councillors would be able to continue in office. Ho added that at all times he had endeavoured to do what he thought was best for the ratepayers, and he realised that Councillors had been similarly actuated. The Mayor then referred to tho difference between local body government in Now Zealand and other countries, remarking that greater responsibilities wore thrown upon borough councils in New Zealand than elsewhere. The responsibilities were also more varied, and the Act passed last session would no doubt help to Improve Municipal government. Much had been said about tho extravagance of Municipal government, much of which was true. Tho passing of the Act, however, would mean more economical administration in tho future. Mr. Nathan concluded by remarking that Palmerston North should be proud of the fact that il had been selected as the venue for the next Municipal Conference, tho first occasion it had been taken outside the four cites.

All the Councillors replied to tho Mayor’s good wishes, and expressed appreciation of the many courtesies that Mr. Nathan had extended to them, Cr. Graham adding that tho Mayor had a strong sense of public duty. Cr: McLeavey considered Mr. Nathan had done more for Palmerston North than most people thought he had; it was only in years to come that they would realise that. Many were tho expressions of regret that the Maor had decided not to stand again for tho Mayoralty. Mrs. Nathan was likewise extended wishes for a prosperous New Year. “I have found her a very excellent Mayoress in every way, pleasant to meet and anxious at all times to do her duty,’’ added Cr. Edwards. Cr. Eliott proposed the health of tho heads of departments, and spoke In appreciation of the work they had done.

Those who replied were Messrs. J. R. Hardio (Town Clerk), ,T. R. Hughes (Engineer), J. W. Muir (Electrical Engineer), G. W. Healey (Gas Manager), A. M. Spilman (Abattoir Manager), P. G. Patton (Traffic Inspector) and P. Black (Curator). Complimentary remarks were also made concerning the activities of the Press representatives.