THE BURDEN OF RATES

Waikato Independent, Volume XXII, Issue 2525, 28 March 1922, Page 5

THE BURDEN OF RATES

(To the Editor). Sir, —Retrenchment, from the Government downwards, appears to be no.yv recognised as a necessity by nearly everyone. So far, however, our country local bodies appear to carry on as though everything was well with plenty of "money to burn.” It is not so with the ratepayer, who "pays the piper.” His condition is one of difficulty and even distress, and it is certain that an unprecedented number of farmers have this year defaulted in their rate payments. Since 1914 most local body rates have more than trebled in amount, and they are now too heavy a burden for the land to bear. Indeed, land used for other than dairy purposes has now no margin, and rates, when liquidated, are porforce paid out of capital. Good roads may be very desirable, but until times become normal rates should be reduced to the amount levied in pre-war days. The matter is in the hands of the ratepayers, and if retrenchment is wanted local bodies should now be told before committing themselves to further (expenditure.

J. D. P. MORGAN. Pukeroro, March 27, 1922.