Feilding’s Public Debt Reducing

Manawatu Times, Volume 66, Issue 109, 9 May 1941, Page 3

Feilding’s Public Debt Reducing

MAYOR’S REVIEW OP WORKS Having completed its term of office, the Feilding Borough Council met for the last time last evening, when the Mayor (Mr. T. L. {Seddon) reviewed something of the work done during the three years tho council had been in office. He said that it was well to remember that tlie borough was not as fortunate as other centres in that it had no endowments; all the money it expended must either be collected in rates or be raised by loans, although, like other towns, the borough did benefit by certain Government subsidies. Out of ordinary revenue the council had expended close on £2900 on principal works and improvements, in addition to the £6OOO streets tar-sealing loan, ivliich had provided for tho sealing of many streets. The council also had to find £1325, in addition, as its share of the cost of tho Iviwitea bridge, while additonal machinery for the crushing plant involved the council in a cost of £9OO, tlio money being borrowed through the Highways Board. “Much remains to be done and any council will find that the demands always exceed the revenue available. By 1916, however, our public debt will have dropped to £92,300. It is now £139,111, so that, provided times are normal and no further major loans are raised meantime, an opportunity will then be afforded to take stock of the needs of the borough. Domestic politics must during tho war period bo subordinated to the war effort and,, if necessary, expenditure tempered accordingly. For half of our term of office we have been at war with a powerful and unscrupulous foe, and it is necessary to take this into consideration when considering the account of our operations. "A tremendous additional load lias been placed upon the council and its administrative officers, but we accept it cheerfully, and all wo ask for is the fullest co-operation of every citizen in servico and money, so that we can overcome completely the vilest oppression that lias ever sought to enslave free peoples of the earth. We want that help now in all our patriotic activities. Apathy and the idea that we have plenty of time to do these things is one of the fatal mistakes of our democratic way of living. "To the members of the council who have given me their fullest co-operation and assistance I tender my sincere thanks. With the exception of one, all seek re-election, and I know the electors will see that a council is returned which will best serve this town and country in this time of direst need. To Cr. McCorkindale, who as deputy mayor has helped me considerably, I acknowledge my indebtedness. Last but not least, I thank Mr. Tate, who has shouldered his increased burden without complaint, and to Mr. Hay and all the borough staff I record my obligation," concluded Mr. Seddon. .