TIMBER INDUSTRY.

Gisborne Times, Volume X, Issue 1000, 19 September 1903, Page 3

TIMBER INDUSTRY.

MR W. L. REES’ OFFER. At the meeting of tho Cook County Council yesterday, the following letter was I received from Mr W. L. Rees in regard to the timber industry : "As I am about to commence cutting timber on Native land this side of WhataI tutu, both for local use and exportation, I make the following proposition to your (Jouncil: I. That the bridges and culverts between Gisborne and Whatatutu be strengthened for the purpose of allowing I traction engines aud trucks to run over thorn. 2. I will provide all necessary timber for such strengthening free of cost to the Council at the site of the different bridges and culverts for a period of three years from tho commencement of operations, say from Ist January next, providing timber for present repairs before that time. 3. I will provide shingle from the river bed in quantities not exceeding 25 cubic yards per week at such places on

the road above mentioned as the Council shall by writing direct for the same period at a cost one-third less on the average than the Council now pays. 4. All material supplied and work to be done under supervision of the Council’s engineer. 5. The Council to charge no fee for the use of the traction engines, and to give any assistance required during the same term, provided that if such assistance compels the expenditure of money I will provide same. 6. The Council to pass no by-law which will entail unnecessary expenditure or trouble, or impose hindrances to the working of the traction engines. I would point out that the Statute now makes it imperative that all precautions and safeguards shall be taken again accidents.

The Chairman considered that the offers were most favorable.

Or Clayton was of opinion that the Council should not put any obstacles in Mr Rees’ way. The Chairman said that the Council would have to find everything except the timber, but they would have the satisfaction of having their bridges in good condition, and there was the prospect of a good industry being opened up. In reply to the Chairman, the Engineer said he would be glad to see the industry encouraged. All the bridges required strengthening, and would involve a considerable amount of expenditure. Or Richardson considered it was a pity that the bridges would not at present carry a traction engine. Cr Gray said that when the report of the Finance Committee came before them Councillors would see that there was not much money to spare. The Engineer stated he could not give a rough estimate of the cost, as he would have to go into details. Or Gray said that the estimate would be an interesting one, and considered the Engineer should furnish one. On the proposition of Cr Clayton, seconded by Cr Richardson, it was decided to reply to Mr Rees, stating that the Council received his offer favorably. Tho Engineer would give an estimate, and in the meantime they desired to ascertain what quality of timber Mr Rees intended to supply.