UNIVERSAL RATING

Waikato Times, Volume 128, Issue 21357, 27 February 1941, Page 6

UNIVERSAL RATING

MUNICIPAL CONFERENCE REMITS FOR CONSIDERATION The Hamilton Borough Council is to be represented by the Mayor, Mr H. D. Caro, and the town clerk, Mr W. L. Waddel, at the annual conference of the Municipal Association, at Auckland on Monday, March 3, when several matters of considerable interest to all local bodies will be dealt with. The remits to be considered total 52, including several late remits that have been issued as a supplementary order paper. One of the most important matters for debate is covered in a memorandum by the president, Mr T. Jordan, Mayor of Masterton. The memorandum refers to a remit from the executive committee, proposing that legislation be enacted to provide that rating in cities, boroughs, and town districts be only on the basis of the annual value. At present there are three main systems of rating—capital (land and improvements) value, annual value, and unimproved value. The Auckland City Council has submitted a remit urging legislation enabling local authorities to require reserves dedicated in connection with subdivisions to be drained, formed and grassed for recreational purposes. It is also proposed that authority be given to the State Housing Department to spend money in the formation of reserves.