RATEPAYERS’ ASSOCIATION

New Zealand Times, Volume LXXI, Issue 4316, 27 March 1901, Page 5

RATEPAYERS’ ASSOCIATION

At last night’s meeting of the Wellington Ratepayers’ Association, Messrs J. A. Plimmer, Robert Wright, James Bruco and H. R. Reals were elected members. Mr John Duthid was elected a life member. Mr A. L. Wilson moved, “That this association considers the principle of rating upon unimproved values a sound one, and that a vote of the ratepayers should be taken upon this important subject as early as possible.” He contended that ih was not right to tax improvements in any form. He said ho had been asked to.propose! the motion.Mr Swiney seconded the motion in order to invite discussion, but did not see how the scheme would be applicable to Wellington, as the city was largely built upon. ' Thel Chairmanf said the Trades and Labour Council had asked that this subject should be brought before the association.- .. A 'discussion ensued .on, the principle of rating on unimproved values, varied opinions being expressed, until one member stated that not one out .of every ten of those present understood the question. Finally the consideration of the matter was adjourned, v Mr Aijnold moved that "the City Council should call for competitive designs and plans and specifications for the construction of the) new tramway, and that the engineer who produced the best design should be appointed for the work. After some debate, the motion was lost. The question having cropped up as to whether Corporation work'should be done by contract as against day-labour, it was resolved, after considerable discussion, “That this association approves of all work being done by contract, and that each candidate should be asked to record his opinion for or against.”