"Sweating" in the Council.

Wanganui Herald, Volume XXXXIV, Issue 12750, 22 April 1909, Page 7

"Sweating" in the Council.

TO THB BDITOB.

Sir, — In your issue of two days 6ince you infer that our townsmen are deterred from seeking Municipal honours because of the increasingly arduous duties of the position. However opinions may differ as to the saying "In the multitude of councillors there is wisdom," few will deny that in many committees th? v c is much work, and that this might be more efficiently performed if "put out." Take the reserves for instance, and their control, what an asset they may be made to any town, and how important a part they play in the eyes of visitors whom we would attract and entertain, and whose commendation is our best and cheapest advertisement? And in what state are they at present? Now, for what do we seek in an aspirant to the Municipal Chamber and what qualifications must he possess who is to win our vote? First, we look for a man of gSod sense, an honest man, and juet. But, unfortunately, these may exist, with the indispensable "good taste" lacking altogether. How can such rightly manage matters horticultural and picturesque? Fortunately at the present time, we have residing amongst us, several able and skilled men (whose public spirited generosity has laid us under obligations already in thie direction) whom I venture to say would, if approached, come forward and superintend the improvements so urgently needed, without asking a penny piece for their pains. In fact, they have offered as much. Let our reserves he placed in the care of a "Domain Boari" chosen for their capacity and experienco in such matters with a free hand to carry out systematic schemes toward the advancement" of our town, and the development of- its natural attractions. 1 iiis wonld relieve the elected Council fi^m duties, for which few members are fitted and enable them to devote .their utii'tarian minds to lees artistic ideals. Wariganui has let a rival lead the way, for only the oth?r day Ne,w Plymouth formal a "Beautifying Association," with their farseeing Mayor as-'fuasident. Let Wangimu «ro one better, as she will, providing the present occupant of the civic chair be empowered to retain it, for in Mr Markiy we have a go-ahead man who has given us ample proof of his determination to make our progressive town, not only a growing city but the garden city of in Dominion.

PLANTER