EXTENDING THE DISTRICT.

Waikato Times, Volume 96, Issue 15867, 13 December 1923, Page 6

EXTENDING THE DISTRICT.

CENTRAL BOARD'S AREA.

A POLICY OF PRUDENCE

The special report by the engineer in regard to taking in the Whangamarino riding was received at yesterday's meeting of the Central Power Board. It was recommended that the district be taken in as an outer area at present and reticulated when the prospects warranted it. On present actualities there would be a probable loss of £923 per annum. Mr Peacocke was of opinion that each district should stand on its own in the matter of power costs and not become a burden on the whole area, which already bad to bear its burden without increasing it by tacking on unprofitable portions. However, where a district was prepared to pay a higher rate it should not be handicapped. Mr Livingstone said that as the engineer's report showed the scheme to be unprofitable at the present time, his recommendation should be adopted. Mr Henry said there was no doubt about the quality of the land in that district, but it required closer settlement.

The chairman asked how was it going to affect the position of Huntly riding, which they were taking in and which included the town. The board had said that if it got the towns it would lake the countryMr Livingstone: So we will when it is payable. Mr Henry: We arc committed to the Huntly riding. Mr Livingstone: If we are we'll stick to it. It was the conclusion of the Board that it would be willing to take over the area if it could see its way clear to do so. The engineer's report was, however, adverse to the scheme being a success at, the present time, and the chairman and engineer are to visit the district and make the position known to those interested.