SUMNER RIPPLES.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 16350, 12 February 1921, Page 5

SUMNER RIPPLES.

EVENTS OF THE WEEK. [From Oup. Correspondent. 3 GREATER CHRISTCHURCH. This matter was introduced at the last meeting of the council by Councillor C. M. Roswell, who was supported by Councillor W. G. Black. The Mayor, the Hon J. Barr, spoke at length on the question, but, later on, closed the meeting rather unexpectedly. The improvements quoted in favour of the change included better roads, beach comforts for visitors, better value for th© rating, cheaper electricity and ga3, and improved drainage. With regard to tho latter, tho Mayor pointed out that as tho Drainage Board dealt with the city drainage, Sumner would still need its own system. He thought that in municipal enterprise, Sumner had shown the city how to manage its affairs. The Mayor said that the township required developing as a watering place. It was, naturally, one of the lungs of the city, and could be mado one of the most beautiful health resorts in New Zealand. It was a moot point whether the beach improvements would benefit the residents. The consideration was not whether the residents would effect a saving, but whether they recognised that Sumner was part of a crowded area called Christchurch. The idea that it could be kept for themselves could not last. Within the next generation it would be absorbed by the city. If asked to give his vote on the question he would have to consider the matter from _tlie broader humanitarian point, of view and say “ Yes !” BOROUGH PICNIC. Careful arrangements have been made for the borough picnic next Wednesday. The Waihora Park has proved delightful on previous oc&isione, and indications point to, a record attendance. A special train ha 9 been chartered for the occasion, and special trams will run. TRAM ARRANGEMENTS. Some time ago the Burgesses’ Association submitted suggestions for the more convenient running of the tram service. These were given very favourable consideration, and some longstanding defects remedied. The early morning running is now much appreciated, and the service between 5 p.m. and 5.3-5 p.m. is giving general satisfaction. The number of secondary school children on the 4.16, together with heavy traffic at that hour, still provide a problem for solution. PERSONAL. Superintendent J. Carter, of the Volunteer Fire Brigade, has been granted special leave of absence to enable him to attend the conference of Fire Brigades at Napier on February 23. LIFE SAVING CLUB. The secretary reports that a good supply of new ropo of excellent Manila quality has been received from the Lyttelton Harbour Board, to replace the old rope in the reels. Two new reel belts have also arrived from the manufacturers. These have been modelled on newer lines, and whilst still needing a little alteration, will prove more comfortable than those now in use. A body belt has also been secured for the use of the “ subA suggestion has been made that competitions should be held amongst the club members, on the lines of those held in other clubs. It is felt that this would stimulate fresh interest in club affairs and count for efficiency. Trophies for this would be readily forthcoming. One lias already been promised. BOROUGH IMPROVEMENTS. The extension of the electrical installation is proceeding very quickly. The poles have now been erected in the main streets of the borough as* well as on Scarborough, and the wiring, both for street and residential lighting, i 3 being proceeded witZT'&s fast as possible. Work connected with one of the new wells for the increased water service is being pushed on. Th© well-sinking machinery has been erected, on the staging out in the estuary near “ Rat Island,” and tho first pipes are now below the surface. With suitable tides this week, the contractor for the Mt Pleasant jettj' has been successful in getting the work of setting the piles for the greater part of the length well in hand. Several chains of road near Shag Rock corner are being heavily metalled for tho full width- Whilst not saying much about it joint now, motorists will appreciate thfe patch more in a couple of weeks’ time. The council office is to be connected with the city telephone exchange direct. THE FIRE BRIGADE. Recently a series of tests was made on the hills to try the capabilities of the motor recommended for fire brigade use. A report was received this week from Mr Reay, the borough engineer, and the matter was dealt with fully in open council. It was finally agreed to purchase the motor tested. The council agreed at its last meeting to pay the annual subsidy of £25.