THE TOWN CLERK'S RESIG.

Otago Daily Times, Issue 15063, 9 February 1911, Page 4

THE TOWN CLERK'S RESIG.

NATION.

MOTION OF APPRECIATION

Towards the close of the busincfs_.it last night's meeting of the City Council,

The Mayor'(Mr Colo) 'said that was the last occasion on which Mr Richards would officiate at the council table in Lis capacity of town clerk, as it was his intention to leave Duncdin on Wednesday of next week. Ho wished to move:—"That this council desires to place on record its appreciation of the valuable and eminently efficient services rendered by the town clerk (Mr R. W. Richards) during his term of office from the Ist December, 1905, to the 28th February, 1911. as also of its recognition of the special knowledge and marked ability which lie has at all times displayed in the organisation and administration of municipal business, and regrets that his resignation will deprive the city of the service of one who, as its official head, served the council and citizens with distinction and credit; further, that a copy of (his resolution be engrossed, the seal of the council affixed thereto, and forwarded to tho Right Hon. Allan Taylor, Lord Mayor of Sydney, with a request that he will kindly present tho saino on behalf of the City Council of Duncdin to Mr Richards in Sydney." Mr Richards had been a splendid town clerk, and had always been at his post to advise councillors and to receive communications from citizens.—(Applause.)

L'r M'Phorson seconded the- motion. Ho thought it was not necessary for hi.m or any other councillor to add anything to what the Mayor had already said. They ai'l knew ilhat Mr Richards had boon a.n exceptional (own clerk, and that tlio city was losing tho sorvicos of an excellent officer. —(Applause.)

Cr Fiddis Iwrc testimony fo tho "generalship " of tho retiring officer. ■

Tho motion was carried unanimously, and was handed to tho town clerk by the Mayor, who, in doing so, said: "There is not tho slightest doubt you have been nn acquisition to us, and have managed our affairs splendidly, ■ ami if there is one citizen who regrets your departure more than another it is myself."

The Town Clerk thanked tho council fo;' the motion it had rc&«l, and, in a short speech, congratulated the city on having municipalised all those depaitmont* that made for the health, comfort, and convenience of tho inhabitants, lb complimented the council, and also past; councils, on the capacity shown by them in the management of largo and very important undertakings in the interests of the citizens. In 'regard to his own experience, he bad had a most enjoyable career in Dunedin, and if his successor had tho same happy time as ho had had he_ would conic to love the city, as he (Mr Richards) had clone. Again he thanked tho council sincerely for tho motion it had unanimously passed.