ISLA BANK (SOUTHLAND).

Otago Witness, Issue 1852, 20 May 1887, Page 17

I SLA BANK (SOUTHLAND).

May 14.— Threshing was almost finished when it was interrupted on the 11th by heavy rain, and since that time the wet weather has continued almost without intermission. As a consequence, the rivers are in a high state of flood, and all- outdoor work is at a standstill. No ploughing has been done so far, and I am afraid the ground will be too wet for some time to come to allow of the plough being brought into use. Stock are doing well, however.

County Rates.— The Wallace County Council are displaying a little spasmodic energy, and as a consequence a batch of ratepayers are about to be sued for arrears of rates due. Had the council expended the unfortunate taxpayers' money judiciously, but little fault could be found with their action, but this they certainly have not done, and there is consequently not a little dissatisfaction. The council should shelve the idea of obtaining money under the Loans to Local Bodies Act for the present, for the ratepayers are certainly not in a position to assume fresh liabilities, no matter" how useful the work on which the money is to be expended may be. United action should be taken by the ratepayers to check all reckless expenditure, or what with Charitable Aid Board contributions and the different forms of rates and taxes we are called upon to meet, we shall soon find that our burdens are greater than we can bear.