ELECTION OF CHAIRMAN.

Otago Daily Times, Issue 9904, 24 November 1893, Page 4

ELECTION OF CHAIRMAN.

Cr Kennedy said he had great pleasure in proposing Cr M'Laren as chairman, who was the oldest member and fairly entitled to it. Cr M'Laren had acted in the same capacity in the absence of Mr Bell, their late chairman, and he had always taken great interest in county matters. He expressed the opinion that Cr M'Laren would make a good chairman. Cr Habtstongb had great pleasure in seconding the nomination of Cr M'Laren as chairman. When the necessity arose Cr M'Laren had been quite willing to take the chair and he (Cr Hartstonge) had no doubt he would attend well to the work of the Council. He was in addition an old councillor—the father of the council in fact—having been a member since the initiation of the county system. Cr Hartatonge also bore testimony to the manner which Cr M'Laren had acted in the interests of ratepayers, his conduct at all times having been straightforward and honourable. Cr M'Laeen thanked the council for the compliment paid him in electing him to the honourable position of chairman, and promised to do the best he could for the benefit of the entire ratepayers. He felfc the disadvantage he laboured under in following the gentlemen who had occupied the position before him— Messrs M'Kenzie and Bell. He considered the council was very fortunate in having a a chairman of Ktr Bell's ability, and while he could not be expected to emulate Mr Bell, ha would do the best he could to discharge the duties of the office, and to crave the indulgence of the council for any shortcomings. It would bs his study to act fairly and impartially, and should necessity arise to give his vote honestly and conscientiously as between man and man. He trusted that members would pay due attention to the finances of the council, and as far as possible keep the expenditure down, and work harmoniously together for the common good of the entire county.