THE STORMY BOROUGH.

Southland Times, Issue 19275, 20 June 1924, Page 7

THE STORMY BOROUGH.

To the Editor. Sir, —“Ratepayer” is rather puzzled to know why I reply by asking questions, but from the reply he has given to these questions it proves that he is biassed against the present Mayor. When the ratepayers had all the say, did not they elect their member of the Council Mayor or otherwise by the majority ? He says democracy has run mad, but I say, No. Are the young people of to-day going to be the future ratepayers and the boys of 21 possible Mayors? Why should we not encourage them to take an interest, and prove useful citizens. Good citizenship is wothy of a vote, surely. In answer to No. 2 Ratepayer says, may be, but he never heard of them, yet he regrets he had not the opportunity to sign the petition, which proves him to be on the other side. Question No. 3: It was quite in order for the Mayor to canvass the borough if he so wished—the other candidate did the same—and I think the ratepayers tre encouraged to be independent when they are allowed to have their names pencilled in at the last moment. It may have been convenient last election, but I fear will cause trouble at future elections. If the present personal feeling was allowed to drop, I see no reason why the business of the Council cannot be conducted in a business manner, and I say, if personal dislike is to be allowed to rule, it is no use electing Mayor or Councillors either, for it is a good member everyone favours, in a position like that. I would make it a strict rule that no personal grievances be discussed at the Council table, any member violating the rule to be fined, and the fines to go towards street repairs. Hoping to see common sense rule; —I am, etc., UNANIMOUS.