MUNICIPAL OFFICES FOR THE CITY.

New Zealand Herald, Volume XLII, Issue 12956, 28 August 1905, Page 3

MUNICIPAL OFFICES FOR THE CITY.

Sir,— leader on this subject is worthy of the earnest consideration of our citizens, The matter appeals not only to them, but has a claim on the attention of dwellers in the suburbs and settlers in the country. You have, clearly shown that the original design and purpose in the erection of the building known as the Public. Library and Art Gallery was not to afford accommodation for municipal offices, but as the name indicates to provide a suitable structure for a public library, artgallery, and other conveniences, and adjuncts in that connection. It is clear from the statements in last Friday's Herald that the usefulness of the art department is seriously threatened by the absorption of space for municipal offices. 1 do not knowhow a stronger appeal could be made to the finer feelings of the community and its representatives than the enumeration of the noble donors of worthy gifts to, I trust, a grateful people. At any rate I finished your article with the conviction that no one who had a. due appreciation of what Sir George Grey, Mr. Mackelvie, Mr. Jas. McCosh Clark and others desired to accomplish would be indifferent to your representation that it was time after so many years occupation for the Council to face its responsibility and provide suitable offices in another building. The City Council should be an example to citizens in recognising public obligation-, and the members should be patriotic enough- to speak out when it is the duty of the" ratepayer to bear a heavier burden. They should taSco a lead in directing public sentiment in regard to municipal institutions connected with literature, science, art, and all that tends to elevate and improve the people. Nothing will do more to encourage the wealthy and the public-spirited citizen to assist in these projects than to .see the community receptive and responsive. We all like the seed to fall on good ground. On the other hand, nothing is more discouraging than to rind people making use of bequests or interfering with the original design of public institutions in order that the pockets of the ratepayers may be saved. Duns.