THE NEW MAYOR.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 17031, 3 May 1923, Page 6

THE NEW MAYOR.

MR J. A. FLESHER INSTALLED. Mr J. A. Flesher, the newly-elected Mayor of Christchurch, was installed in office at a public function held last, evening in the City Council Chambers. The retiring Mayor (Dr Thacker) presided, and there was a- large attendance of leading citizens, including all but two members of the new City Council, several ex-councillors, representatives of other local bodies and oi various institutions, members of Parliament, church dignitaries, and heads of City Council departments. Mr Flesher’s mother, who is aged eightyfive, was also present. After Mr Flesher hatl signed his declaration, Dr Thacker said that he wished to congratulate and compliment him. Fie had a substantial majority behind him, and he should be able to carry out many measures for the advancement of the City. He hoped the new Mayor would see a Town Hall built. and that ho would see the surroundings of the Bridge of Remembrance improved. He wished the new Mayor all prosperity, and his good wishes also went out to the new Mayoress. Mr Flesher was then installed and invested with the robes of office. Mr Flesher said it was a red-letter day in his history. Fie was the second native of Christchurch to be elected „o this important office, and he was proud cl the fact. He was also proud that ; his mother, now in her eighty-sixth j year, was alive to see the high honour done him. He appreciated the honour, I and he appreciated the reference to his : wife. 'l’he majority last Thursday exj reeded his expectations, and the coni gratulatory messages received made him

think that his service was worth while. Christchurch was a city worthy of service. Its citizens could be prouder of it than they were. He could say that he had nev<V in public life sought private advancement—every honour given him hatl been freely given. He was sure he would get loyal support from new councillors, especially as he had already worked with twelve on various local bodies. He asked for their forbearance. He knew they would differ, and if he made mistakes he hoped they would be put down to error of judgment rather than lack of heart. The City Council had a fine record, and he would do his best to uphold it and act worthily and in keeping with traditions. As for the staff, he appreciated their value, and he would always strive to see that their service was fully re cognised. Fie thanked all who had. P ai ’F in the function. m hich he hoped would be the beginning of a successful and prosperous term. There were great things looming up. For the new council he asked every’ consideration and help. If that were'given Christchurch would progress on sound and safe lines during the next two years. Mr Flesher concluded by paying a tribute to the work of the retiring Mayor. On the motion of Mr Flesher. seconded by Councillor A. Williams, a hearty vote of thanks was accorded the retiring Mayor and Mr, Thacker. Councillors J. K. Archer. C. P. Agar, IT. T. Armstrong, M.P., A. M’Kellar and other congratulated Mr Flesher on his success.