COST OF COUNTRY ROADS.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXVII, Issue 20521, 24 March 1930, Page 11

COST OF COUNTRY ROADS.

- ; BURDEN ON FARMERS. LIABILITY OF HIGHWAYS BOARD. [BY TELEGRAPH. —OWN CORRESPONDENT.] MATAMATA, Saturday. That the users should contribute mora toward the cost of roads was the opinion of members of the Matamata County Council at the last meeting. Jn a report, thfe engineer said that the considerable sums received from the Highways Board did not fully compensate for the extra * roading expenditure occasioned by increased motor traffic, a position which was being felt by many local ■/ bodies.

Mr. Bruce (Maungatautari) stated the position was a most serious ono for farmers, who were again faced with the prospect of increased rates. He urged -that the time was opportune to press for an increased subsidy, which should be .fiiet by an increase in the benzine tax 'as farmers were being seriously handicapped by heavy rates. Jn his opinion, 90 per cent, of the cost of the main roads should be bdine by the Main Highways Board. He urged that a remit to this effect should be sent- to the counties conference.

-Mr. Allen (Okoroire) pointed out that the seriousness of the position was increased by the fact that a great deal of through traffic was being diverted to tho side roads. He felt that de-rating of farm lands and an increase in the benzine tax were the only solutions. It was decided to send a remit to the Counties conference on the lines indicated.