Financial Difficulties.

Hokitika Guardian, 30 April 1921, Page 1

Financial Difficulties.

REEFTON COUNTY COUNCIL At the monthly meeting of the above Council tho statement of accounts was submitted, when it was shown that with the accounts to pay the overdraft exceeded the limit (£9266). Cr StepJienson referred to the outstanding rates. There was a large sum still outstanding. He moved that all owing rates he sued for indiscriminately. Cr Watson seconded. Cr O’Regan thought that all should not be sued. Those who were unable to pay should not he harrassed. The County Clerk referred to a large number of small amounts owing, many of which wore held in the Waduta district. The motion was put and carried. The County Chairman referred to the County’s financial position. They were at tho end of their resources. Their rates were practically collected. They would have to stop all work or make other arrangements. Tho Chairman said they were £192 short of the amount required to carry on for the month. What did Councillos intend to do in the matter? Cr Stephenson said they would have to close down. Cr McYiear thought they should strike a hospital and charitable aid rate. The County Chairman said this would come into force a fortnight after being struck. The County Chairman moved that the County Engineer cut down the expenditure out of ordinary revenue to the lowest possible minimum.—-Seconded by Cr Carroll and carried. Cr O’Regan moved that a statement of the revenue received from each Riding should he compiled. He moved this in order to show where the money provided was spent. Seconded hv tile Chairman and carried. Cr O’Regan moved that the Executive Committee confer with the County Clerk ro collection of outstanding rates. Seconded by the Chairman and carried.