“No Money For County Roads, But For Buildings”

Northern Advocate, 14 November 1941, Page 2

“No Money For County Roads, But For Buildings”

“There has been no reduction in public expenditure, but it appears that roads are not among important works to be carried on, although money is being spent on public buildings.” This comment was made by the chairman of the Whangarei County Council (Mr. J. A. S. Mac Kay) when a telegram came before the monthly meeting today from the member for the district (Mr. Barclay) stating that he had been advised by the Minister for Public Works that it would not be possible to provide further road grants for the county on the supplementary estimates. Nc Supplementary Grants The telegram was in response to an inquiry by the council regarding the position of road grants on the supplementary estimates. “That sounds fairly final,” commented Cr. A. Clarke. The chairman: I am disappointed. Cr. F. Elliott also expressed disappointment. Mr. Barclay had informed some settlers in his riding that all the council had to do was to grade the road and he would do the rest, but apparently Mr. Barclay was unable to fulfil his promise. The council, however, was absolved from blame. “I don’t think there is any possibility of getting work done now,” said the chairman.