NEW CHAIRMAN

New Zealand Times, Volume L, Issue 11527, 24 May 1923, Page 3

NEW CHAIRMAN

OF HARBOUR BOARD MR G. MITCHELL. OF WELLINGTON, ELECTED. FORMER HOLDER DEFEATED. Lost evening Mr G. R. Mitchell was elected chairman of the Wellington Harbour Board after a contest with Mr J. G. Harkness, who occupied the chair foi four vears. Mr J. G. Cobbe nominated Mr Mitchell. In doing so he said, that the board had big works ahead, among them the Thorndon wall and the revision of charges. In these circumstances two years long enough for one to occupy the chairmanship. Mr Mitchell was an energetic man, well fitted for the position, and the big vote recorded for him at the election was almost a mandate from the peonie to make him chairman. Mr D. J. McGowan seconded. Captain McArthur moved that Mr J. G. Harkness should be le-elected chairman. His experience would be valuable. Captain McArthur said Rome of the mem here felt that if Colonels Mitchell had another year’s experience he would make a good chairman. Mr C\ M. Turrell seconded the nomine Hon of Mr Harkness. He considered H essential that in view of the capable manner in which Mr Harkness had handled the affairs of the board he should be re-elected. Very important works were ahead. As to the idea that the chairmanship should go round, he pointed out that Mr Mitchell was about the youngest member of the board, and others might be entitled to a term before hira. Mr M. Welch nominated Mr H. D. Bennett, but Mr Bennett withdrew’. Mr Mitchell said that the matter had been discussed, and he had stated that ho would not hold the position for more than two years. The election resulted: For Mitchell (B)—T. R. Barter. H. D. Bennett. J. G. oV»bhe, J. D. McGowan. G. Mitchell, T. Moss, C. F. Post, M. Welch. For Harkness (4) —J. G. Harkness. C. MVArthur, J. W. McEwan, C. M. Turrell. Mr Harkness said he had been beaten in the contest but not discouraged. He would heartily co-operate with the new chairman. Mr Mitchell, on behalf of the board, thanked Mr Harkness for his excellent service* to the body. Mr H. B. Bennett was elected deputy* chairman.