HARBOUR BRIDGE

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXII, Issue 22099, 3 May 1935, Page 12

HARBOUR BRIDGE

rating area scheme EXPLANATION OF POSITION Reference to the proposed rating area ' for harbour bridge purposes was made by tho Mayor of Northcote, Mr. R. 1 Martin, speaking at Northcote last night. He read the resolution passed a month ago by the Northcote Borough Council, as follows:—"If legislative authority exists, or is, given for such purpose, the council will take such steps as may be necessary to guarantee its proportionate part of the interest and sinking fund on £IOO,OOO (part of the costs of the bridge), provided that such guarantee is only to be called upon in the event of the revenue from the bridge being insufficient to pay all outgoings, and that the guarantee is secured by charge over the revenue from the bridge." Mr. Martin said he and his opponent, Mr. N. S. Davidson, had voted for the'resolution. The deputation to Wellington was advised that something of this kind would go a long way toward getting assistance. A poll would le taken, and tho rate required would be one-fifth of a penny oyer a large rating area, including the City of Auckland, and extending to Whangarei. The req nests made by the deputation to Wellington had not yet been dealt with. Tho new Minister of Employment, the Hon. S. G. Smith, was investigating the matter, and in the near future lie hoped to do something regarding this proposal. Mr. Martin added that ho would approach ail matters in connection with the harbour bridge with a view to safeguarding the interests of the borough in all respects.