METROPOLITAN BOARD OF WORKS.

Press, Volume LXVIII, Issue 20492, 10 March 1932, Page 13

METROPOLITAN BOARD OF WORKS.

WAIMAIRI COUNCILLORS DISCUSS PROPOSAL.

"There- are too many local bodies — too much overlapping. If we can save any monsy, which I think we can, the matter of the establishment of a Metropolitan Board of Works is well worth consideration," said Cr. W. PSpencer at last night's meeting of the Waimairi County Council. The discussion arose from a letter received from the Christchurch City Council calling a conference of local bodies within the Metropolitan area for the purpose of discussing and examining the question of the desirability of forming a Metropolitan Board of Works. . Cr. T. O. Newnham said that the different local bodies were doing good work, and he thought it better to carry on as at present. Cr. G. Gardiner-.. They are closing the stable door after the horse is stolen. The Drainage Board has already spent its money. The Tramway Board is in difficulties. Most of the big works are completed. In fact it i» far too late in the day. to do anything. Cr. Chapman supported the opinion that there was too much overlapping, and too many local bodies. It was. only a matter of a short time, he saia, when the Waimairi Council would go The chairman (Cr. W. J. Walter) said the county was well managed. Tne roads were among the best in the ■'-dominion, and the rates were the lowest. "We are living in an age of specialists," he said, "and even if a. Metropolitan Board of Works were formed, drainage engineers would be needed for drainage work, and other experts to the different sections." ; He failed to see tow any saving couiu be made. . The chairman. Crs. Scott ana Clelnnd wore appointed to represent the council.