LITTLE RIVER ROAD BOARD.

Akaroa Mail and Banks Peninsula Advertiser, Volume VI, Issue 622, 30 June 1882, Page 2

LITTLE RIVER ROAD BOARD.

To the Editor

S;u.— Having read in your journal of a recent date an anonymous letter under the heading "Little liiver Eoad Boanij and County Council," I cannot help thinking that the former body have trodden on somebody's corns. It is a pity, however, that the scribe referred to could not suppress hia ill-timed malice, and try to speak common sense. In the first place, reference is made to the action of the Road tJoard in congratulating Sir J. Hall on his distinction, and ratepayers are asked if this is not a waste of public money. I must acknowledge a sum of twopence has here been expended, and if the hon gentleman referred to has not merited this outlay from the ratepayers of Banks Peninsula, I have only to bend my head, as the proposer of the resolution, and cry peccavi. Perhaps the scribe referred to is not aware that Sir J. Hall has been the first benefactor to this district, by using his influence as Secretary of PublicWorks to obtain a road and bridges along the iake side seventeen years ago. As your correspondent seems so well versed in the affairs of the County Council, will he kindly inform us what are the benefits derived by ratepayers irorn that august body during its existence, as it seems he is not sufficiently impartial to state the extravagant expenditure of that body, being perhaps the recipient of some of its funds. In proposing the resolution to dissolve the County Council I have onl) , complied with the oft-repeated wishes of nine -tenths of the rate-payera, as well as of more than j one of the Council members, who (lescri be it as a farce.| . t As to the Board's action with regard to an

outlet t , ) section 21.799, the matter is at present under consideration, and when it is solved I will be able to inform you that the Board has not been wanting in its duty. With regard to merging the Board, I have to tell you that the ratepayers are already sufficiently conversant with the utility of this body, and are the best judges who is or is not best able and willing to represent them. As to the drainage of Lake Ellesmere, I beg to state that I shall hail with pleasure any scheme that would be likely to drain the lands bordering thereon, with a view not only tosfive the railway line, which is so beneficial to the district, but also to render the grazing land fit for cultivation, if possible, as I am always prepared to purchase what I require of this land, and feel sure 1 may say the same for my brother settlers. I may also add that the pasturage of this land, being valued eighteen months ago, is consequently let at its full value to those who use it, therefore it is not likely we shall feel so much aggrieved that it may be turned into better land, I " for one " trust sincerely this may soon occur. Apologising for trespassing so long.— Yours etc., T. H. PARKINSON. Kaituna, June 26th, 1882.