RUSSELL NEWS

Northern Advocate, 20 April 1933, Page 7

RUSSELL NEWS

RATEPAYERS' ASSOCIATION. COMMITTEE MBETIN G. (Prom Our Own Correspondent.) A meeting of the Ratepayers' Association Committee was held this week, a lot of time being occupied in discursive comment on the attitude of the Town Board towards representations made by association delegates on wellworn topics concerning the welfare of the community, nothing definite developing from the discussion. Strand Traffic Bisks. Mr Ellis stated that he had been approached by certain ratepayers requesting him to propose: “That the association ask the Town Board to consider seriously the advisability .of closing the strand, from the Post Office to 'the north-west end, to all vehicular traffic, except local commercial vehicles, as the speed at which many of the cars travel there at times is a source of great danger to the public, especially when one considers that the Strand does not possess a dolined fobtpath." Considerable discussion ensued, Mr Adamson asking what provision would bo made for land-owners on the front who had no back entrance. “However," he said, “I would rather regard human life and limb than worry about a car." The proposal, seconded by the chairman, was carried without dissent. Essential Footpath. Mr Lindaucr proposed, seconded by Mr Anderson, that the Town Board bo written to requesting the construction of a footpath on the* north-west side of Chappell Street, “as there is very little room in the event of a car passing and the work can bo cheaply done," This was carried. The report of the delegates—Messrs Ellis and Adamson —to the ratepayers meeting at Ohaeawai was presented. Mr Ellis said that the chief phase was the very strong support the derating movement was receiving. There were about 200 people present and all seemed to recognise that something had to be done about the rating system, which, it seemed to him, might affect one section of the community far more advantageously than another. A number of farmers there were holding Crown lands and the remainder hold lands under private mortgage. It had been stated that, in the event of a Crown land holder failing to pay rates, no magistrate would give an order against him if he were sued; therefore derating was not of such value to him as lo the others. It had also been asserted that, a year or two ago, the settlers did possess some equity, whereas today they possessed none! The Government had exacted so much that the settlers had nothing left to take. Another question of interest raised was the Central Bank proposal. Mr Rotherham, of Kawakawa, had made a serious study of the effects likely to occur if this scheme eventuated, ami others present had viewed the prospect with dismay. It was decided to invite Mr Rotherham to address the. association on thin subject at any time convenient to him. Nominal Members. Air Lindaucr gave notice to move:' — “That owing to hard times, the association should enrol nominal members, without power to vote, at 1/- each." He stated that he did so as many people -were only too ready to join Iho association, but considered 2/Ci too great a call upon their purses.