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Hokitika Guardian, 18 March 1919, Page 2

Tire form of local memorial to be adopted to mark in public way the service of those who played their part in the Great War, will be a matter for some discussion. The Westland Hospital Trustees propose seizing the opportunity to rear a soldiers’ memorial in the form of a- new wing, which in any case is much needed. Two of the local churches have proposal under way for marking the occasion', and there are other schemes afoot for memorials more or less public. The town requires its own distinctive memorial, which in our opinion should be connected solely with the war service. The occasion is unique, for all through liistoiy will run the story of the war, there will be the reminder of the great event in history which gave the world a new beginning in international life and intercourse. The memorial might be something distinctive and apart- from any utilitarian use, and above all should carry in some prominent position a record of the names of those who served from this district. A local roll of honor will he indispensible hi connection with any memorial— though there might he a difficulty in getting it fully complete. This memorial should be the outward and visible sign of our gratitude and therefore should not be skimped in design, ft should be something striking—an instrument to mark those grateful feelings we must all possess for the sacrifice so splendidly rendered Such a memorial calls for consideration and thought, and the community cannot begin too soon now to think about it. Bonouort improvements are talked of. There is the belated cleaning up of portions of the town going on; the much neglected Cass Square is to l>e rescued from its disgraceful state; Hampden Street is to be widened; and the drain-

age scheme of the upper portion of the town is to be resumed. Various small works about the town are to have attention also. Tliis is all very good, and we hope it is not merely a sign of repent- j ance by a dying Council, for it goes out of office in less than two months. This fact suggests that the time is opportune for the public to take more than a passing interest in municipal affairs. In any case some fresh blood will be required for the new Council , as all the Councillors are not seeking re-election. The Council has certain works in mind, such as the drainage of the back portion of the town, and a definite policy should be decided upon. This work is being done piecemeal out of local funds, which menus that other works are held up and we see tlia town drifting into a rather uncleanly state at times. For drainage and other like works the Council should make special financial arrangements and spread the charge over a term, so that local revenue will be as intended for maintenance and not for construction. The new Council should face this matter in a business-like way. The town requires considerable expenditure for ordinary upkeep and the local income should be reserved for this purpose, so as to keep the town in a creditable condition. Where permanent works are involved these should he provided for out. of special funds and so spread the cost of the work over a period and thus deal fairly with all.