COUNTIES’ CONFERENCE

Gisborne Herald, Volume LXVI, Issue 20006, 3 August 1939, Page 7

COUNTIES’ CONFERENCE

MR. MATTHEWS’ SERVICE REFERENCE BY CHAIRMAN When reviewing the counties’ conference held in Wellington last week, Mr. J. G. Appleton, county clerk, Waikohu, stated to-day that complimentary reference was made by the chairman, Mr. C. J. Talbo-t, to the services rendered to the association •by Mr. Chas. Matthews, who was a mgmber of the executive for several years and who- was previously chairman .Of the Cook County Council, After a discussion on county amalgamation, it was decided to press for a full .investigation of the whole system of local government before any scheme was puit into operation for the alteration of the existing boundaries of the larger local bodies. Remits urging a review of hospital rating, the tightening up of legislation for the eradication of noxious weeds, the control of dogs to reduce sheep worrying, and the increase of penalties on stock straying on the roads were carried. Money from the petrol tax to subsidise the maintenance oi county roads was also urged. Following the conference, a visit was paid to the Ngahauranga Gorge road work, in company with the Minister of Public Works, the Hon. R. Semple, and delegates were impressed with the magnitude Of the work and the modern equipment being used to carry it out.