HaUTAPU DRAINAGE BOARD

Waikato Argus, Volume XXXIV, Issue 5223, 5 February 1913, Page 2

HaUTAPU DRAINAGE BOARD

The above board met at Cambridge on Monday afternoon, there being present: Messrs W. J. Andrews (chairman), H. Tyler, J. W. Bartlett, A. McEwan, and A. McFarlane. The C Drain. Mr M. L. Watkins wrote asking to be granted leave of absence as he had to attend the meeting of the Matamata County Council, which was .being held that day, and suggesting that the C drain be formed from Mr West's to the end on the Thornton road, if tunds were available. Nothing had been spent on the construction of the drain, and he thought it only fair that the rates should be spent on cleaning it out. He considered something should be done to compel ratepayers to keep the drain clea*- of briars, as in some parts it cost nearly as much to clear the drains of briars as to shift me dirt, and as they were short of funds they should not suffer from the neglect of ratepayers. —Mr Watkins was granted leave of absence, and the board then resolved that steps should be taken to ascertain who aro the offenders in respect of growtiia obstructing the drain. The names will bo handed in to the clerk, and lie will notify them that the growth must be cleared forthwith, failing which the board will lake steps under the Drainage Act to have the growth cleared.—lt was pointed out that a penalty of £1 per day can be inflicted, in addition to the cost of clearing the drain, and that such penalty is recoverable against (he iano as if for rates due. The Grant.

Mr J. B. Thompson, Lands Department Engineer, forwarded a voucher fur £IOOO which appeals on this year’s appropriations. This makes it appear as if the long promised grant will shortly come to hand. Hates. The collector was instructed to notify ratepayers that all rates unpaid on the 17th inst. will be sued (or, together with the extra 10 per cent, interest. Cleaning Out Drains. The board arranged to meet at Mr McEwan's on Monday next, to arrange for construction at the boltora of the B drain; also for cleaning the same drain up to tne Victoria road. Arrangements will also be made for cleaning out the following drains: from outlet to Victoria road; Al, full length: the upper part of C drain—referred to in Mr Watkins’ letter; the lower part was left over until the members representing that portion of the district are present. Specifications will be made up after the inspection. Accounts. The following were passed for payment:- Waikato Argus, £1 2s tid; Independent, £2 Oadd; interest on loan, £BB 18s 7d; S. Lewis, £2 8s; clerk, £6 ss; petty cash, £3.