THE MAYORALTY.

Timaru Herald, Volume CXXIII, 22 March 1927, Page 4

THE MAYORALTY.

To the Editor of the “Timaru Herald.” Sir, —The Duke has visited our town, and we did our best to rise to the occasion. We closed our places of business, waved the dear old llag, sang ttie National Anthem, and for the spate ot one hour were quite patriotic. So you will declare that we are always. Well, Mr. Editor, we will see. The local-elections are at hand. Two years ago, there were not sufficient public spirited men in. the town to comply with the number required as councillors, and only at the last moment was the twelfth nomination secured. 'J ho same position followed at the by-elec-tion. Wo must remember too, that then the three associations look a hand and brought out candidates pledged to support their osvn particular part ol the town. Already one finds that the North End Association has decided, by resolution, that it is outside its duties to take part in municipal elections, and J agree. The same thing applies to thc°Employers’ Association, a mil also the Chamber of: Commerce. The time lias arrived, however, when some of oui leading men should show theii patriotism to their own town by coming forward and offering to shoulder some of the local government! work. I am tokl that at least livo of the present councillors will not seek re-election. With regard to the Mayor, the position is clear. The only honour that a councillor can look forward to L to become chief magistrate ol the Roioug.i and each in turn, if he so desires, and is qualified, should be given that distinction. No man has a right to expect to hold the ofiicei of Mayoi 105 ah unlimited term. J .note, from your valuable paper, that Councillor 1. J. Arnold may offer his services. Mr Arnold would make an excellent Mayor. His long Parliamentary experience gives him a special qualification to fill the chair, and control the council meeti]i«, in addition, he wouk, nold Inc high office wiLh dignity ami do honour to the town. 1 lanev though that at least three councillors viz., I\lr--is Sattcrthwnitc, Hay. and Wnnell have been longer on the Timaru Council than Afr Arnold and have first claim ' Mr Editor, T could name at least iwentv gentlemen, who would make „o„l councillors, and with ether ot the above as Mayor, would complete a fiMu, .STArI'K iS u. rofi-ained from taking anv mGxe !><»<. jn local matters, now doing so.— l. am ctc ” DUTY CALLS.