CONFERENCE OF LOCAL BODIES.

Taranaki Herald, Volume LIV, Issue 13484, 26 July 1907, Page 5

CONFERENCE OF LOCAL BODIES.

Per Press Association.

AUCKLAND, July 25.

The annual conferences of local bodies in the Manukau County was held today. Mr. Allen (Pukekohe East) presided. It was decided to place on record the valuable services rendered to local bodies by the late Mr. Kirkbride, M.H.R- A: resolution was carried — " That the .Noxious Weeds Act should be properly administered, and owners of property should be compelled to clear a certain portion of their property every year." It was also decided that pressure should be brought to bear on the Government' to clear all Crown lands of noxious weeds. It was decided that all local bodies in the county - should take united action vo poison birds in July each year, the Government to be asked to distribute poisoned grain at cost price. It was resolved that condemned stock should be valued at full market rates, instead of at boiling down rates as at present. In this connection it was pointed out that if a beast which was ailing was bought by a farmer he hesitated about informing an inspector on account of the small value placed upon it, whereas if fair market value were allowed he would have no object in keeping the disease quiet. It .was resolved that quail should be included in the small birds nuisance, also that the Government subsidy to looal bodies should be on a graduated scale, so that the amount might be increased according as the rate levied was increased, and maximum limit be done away with.