THE CAMBRIDGE WATER SUPPLY. [BY ELECTRIC TELEGRAPH, OWN CORRISPONDENT.]

Waikato Times, Volume XVI, Issue 1358, 15 March 1881, Page 2

THE CAM BRIDGE WATER SUPPLY. [BY ELECTRIC TELEGRAPH, OWN CORRISPONDENT.]

Cambridge, Last Night. A. meeting was held to-night, in the Public Hall, to consider the water supply question. There were about 100 peraons present. Mr J. P. Campbell, who occupied the chair, detailed the proposal made by the Steam Navigation Company, and after referring to the Town Districts Bill, which he said was more than likely to be adopted this session, he read and referred to the provisions of the Bill as drafted, and published in the Waikato Times of Saturday last. Mr Hughes moved, " That this meeting is of opinion that in view of the inadequate supply of water for household purposes, the great danger of fire, and the immense amount of damage that would in all probability be caused thereby, it is essential for the interests of this rapidlyincreasing township that a scheme sliould be devised to provide the town with a supply of good water. " The motion was seconded by Mr Stewart, Mr Johnston moved, as an amendment, " That there is not a sufficient number of inhabitants to support such a scheme, and that this question be brought before the ratepayers this day six months." Thi3 was seconded by Mr Reid, who argued that as the upper flat was amply provided with water it would be unfair to ask the residents there to bear any portion ef the costs. The motion was carried by a large majority. Mr Wells moved "That it is deemed advisable by this meeting, seeing the Waikato Navigation Company is about to erect powerful steam machinery in a convenient position, to maKe arrangements for them to utilise such machinery for the purpose of pumping np such water from the river, and as there is a probability of the Town Districts Bill being placed on the Statute-book, that in the mean time the ratepayers in Victoria and Duke-streets be canvassed, with the view of ascertaining whether they will agree to become personally liable for the cost of neccessary plant pending the adoption of the aforesaid measure." He gave some particulars regarding the probable cost, stating that a sum of £470 would carry the water to the lower levels of the town, and that a further sum of £70 would be sufficient for securing a fireengine, so as to force the water in the case of a fire. The water supply might eventually be extended as far as the Church of England, at an estimated cost of under £1000. This sum, he concluded, was within the reach of those who were so vitally interested in the question of securing an effectual water supply. Under the arrangement as proposed with the Navigation Company, the cost to the town would be at least one-third less than it could possibly be otherwise provided for. Mr Isaacs seconded the resolution. Mr Bright suggested that the reference to the Navigation Company be expunged, so that they might be free to provide a supply of their own, or deal with the matter in any other way. He thought that would be most advisable. Mr Keesing supported this view, and reflected upon the Navigation Company for buying up opposition and securing a monopoly of the river traffic, so as to enable them to make unfair charges. Mr Smerdon moved as an amendment, "That a committee be appointed from the meeting to consider as to w-hether it would be to the interests of the township to treat with the Navigation Company, or form an independent company for the water supply." Mr Wells, in reply, defended the Navigation Company against the imputations made against them, adding that he had always found them honourable and straightforward in their dealings. The motion was carried by a majority. On the motion of Mr Brooks, Messrs Hally, J. P. Campbell, Pearson, Wells, Kirkwood, Asher, Houghton, Keesing, Hewitt, and the mover were appointed a committee to obtain all necessary information, and generally to carry out the provisions of the foregoing resolutions. The meeting separated at 10.15 p.m.