STIR AT WAIPUKURAU

Hawke's Bay Herald-Tribune, Issue 66, 5 April 1937, Page 3

STIR AT WAIPUKURAU

Our Own Corresponijent)

Cowity Council Members Criticise Aero Club "FAD FOR CRANKS"

^From

WAIPUKURAU , Last JMigiit. ' 1 A f ad for a few cranks about the town," was how Mr A. C. Russell, chairman of the Waipukurau County Council, described the Central Hawke's Bay Aero Club at the monthly meeting of the council. Forwarding £12 in payment of its rates, the club asked for a rebate or a donation. "I am sure your council realises the national importance of the work that the aero club is doing in looking to the future,' ' wrote the secTetary, Mr C. R. Watson. "The club, however, has been put to a heavy expense in the preparation of the ground, and is finding it increasingly difficult to raise finance ..." "We've got no money to give away — they're taking it from us quick enough without that," said Mr Russell. He added that £15,000 had been spent on the preparation of the landing ground. Mr L. M. Monckton pointed out that the work was done by the Government. Mr Russell: That doesn't matter; the money comes out of the taxpayer's pocket. Mr Monckton; The aerodrome is for the benefit of the whole difctrict. Mr Russell: I don't see one shilling's worth of benefit in it! , Mr Monckton: Ypu said years ago that electricity would be no benefit to the district. Mr M. Tansey pointed out the advantages of landing grounds in the defence of the country. Mr Russell: You've got no chance of defending this country. You might ae well ask the enemy for morning tea! Mr H, T. Wright said that it would be 'illegal to give a rebate on the rates, but suggested that a donation of £5 be made. ' Mr Monckton moved and Mr Tansey seconded, that this be done "It's a publie adair; no one is making any pront out of it," said Mr Tansey. "It's not a public adair — it's a fad for a few cranks about the town," declaed Mr Russell. "What have we got to do with the townt" he went on. "The aerodrome in Waipukurau might make it possible for you to fly dowa to the West Coast," pointed out Mr Tansey. Mr Russell: And there would be a big chance of my not coming back! However, if you're in the mood to be liberal — have LO.U.'s pasted all over the county— give them a 'tenner. ' Go on, the ratepayers have plenty of money. Mr Monckton 's motion was carried,