Public Meeting

Feilding Star, Volume VI, Issue 90, 13 January 1885, Page 3

Public Meeting

-*- The meeting of ratepayers called by Mr Amott at the Denbigh Sample Booms on Saturday evening last, was attended by about 100 persons, a large proportion of whom, however, were non-ratepayers and boys, the latter being mostly larrikins. Mr E. H. Wright occupied the chair, and read ihe advertisement calling the meeting. He explained that he was in the chair by the request of 9 ratepayers, whose requisition he then read. He also stated that Mr Arnott had •called the meeting as the Mayor had declined to do so. The Chairman then called upon any one who' had any grievance to air, to stand up and do so. Mr Arnott addressed the meeting and went; over the matters mentioned Itt what:; he called. - his programme. Amongst other things he said he hoped Oho working men would stand up for their rights, and see that a proper " increasement" was put upon the value, of property within the Borough. He was proceeding to •ramble from the " programme," when he was i called to order by the chairman. He then proceeded to complain about a certain Borough officer, and was again called to order. The roadman, and the Blackmore case were referred to, and the chairman called the next item on the programme. Mr Arnott made some statements about the Mayor, which were met with general disapproval and uproar. Mr Arnott proceeded to speak, but was advised by the chairman to sit down, and let some one else have a say. Mr Palmer then came forward, and was proceeding to speak when decayed eggs began to fly about the room. He said he had nothing to say about the matters on the " programme" which were pointed out to him. The chairman said he must request every speaker to stick to the text, when Mr Palmer resumed, his seat. Mr ilammond then took the " programme" in hand. He said Mr Arnott had called them together, but had stall left them in the dark. Mr Hammond, explained and fully justified the action of the Council on certain matters referred to, his remarks being warmly endorsed, as were also his observations relative to the efficiency of certain officials. Mr Arnott then asked that Mr Hammond would cease to speak, as he was not a ratepayer. Mr Ilammond then sat down; and great uproar followed. The chairman requested that some person would put something definitely before the meeting, as this had not been done. Mr Norman suggested that Mr Araott- should .-again speak, which he attempted to do amidst much interruption, and burlesque applause, and a vote ot -thanks to the chairman, with " He's a jolly good fellow," &c. The chairman now vacated -his position and most of tho audience left the room- Thpse that remained were again addressed by Mr Arnott and Mr Norman, 1 the latter's remarks being highly, sarcastic. Several missiles in the of shape eggs, a horse colL_r, and a door mat, were thrown about the room, and vith the blowing out of the lights the meeting ceased.