Hokitika Beautifying Association.

Hokitika Guardian, 9 February 1922, Page 2

Hokitika Beautifying Association.

WEDNESDAY, FEB. Bth

The Committee met at the Town Hall at 8.30 o’clock. Present: Hon H. L. Michel (President), Mesdames Baitlcr and Bennett, Messrs Irvine, Pfikington, Evans, Davidson and Niven (Hon Secretary).

The minutes were confirmed. Mrs Butler took exception to the fact that although on the sub-committee to deal with the hot water supply for Cass Square no advice of any meeting on tire matter had been received. Mrs Butler also rose the point about the cutting down of the pickets on Cass Square fence, believing it would have been, better to do away with the pickets altogether and substitute wires. The matter was discussed for some time, the majority present favoring the work as carried out.

The Chairman reported the work done in painting Macandrew Square fence, the work having been dohe by day labor under the contract price tendered. The painting of the northern section of the Cass Square fence was now in band and it was proposed to treat the western section similarly, thus add ing greatly to the appearance of the grounds. Hon Michel appreciated the result of the bazaar held in December by the Ladies’ Literary Club, which had yielded £165 to the funds. A vote of hearty appreciation was passed. The Chairman referred also to the action of the Westland Racing Club in undertaking to keep Cass Square mown. The work was commented on favourably by othei speakers, Mr Pilkington remarking that the results should encourage the Borough Council to procure a mower for the purpose of cleaning up the rushes and long grass on the side streets of the town. Hon Michel made the suggestion that a man should be employed permanently in keeping Cass Square, Macandrew Square and the. monuments of the town in order, the cost to be divided between t'ne Borough Council and the Beautifying Association. A suitable man could be obtained for about £l5O, and the work carried out efficiently would be. an economy in relation to the present cost for the spasmodic work done. The. proposal was approved generally. Mr Davidson thought the work could bo done tor less. It was decided to include the care and control of the pavilion in the duties, and forward the proposal to the Borough Council for favorable consideration. The Hon Secretary reported the total funds raised now aggregated £260, anil ii:e expenditure to date was utnlor £100). Various accounts 'were passed for payment. Mr Irvine referred to the obligation to keep the grounds in the vicinity of the proposed war memorial in order, ami hoped money would be kept in hand for that purpose. The Chairman said if a caretaker were appointed his work could be specially directed towards the necessary work. In connection with the cost of improving and beautifying Cass Square, aad keeping it in order for all games and pastimes, the Chairman suggest? , levy of 10 per cent should be made b- the Borough Council on all g* e ,‘„nev collected for entrance to grounds, for sports, football, etc., and the money devoted to the care and upkeep of the grounds and buildings. This course was adopted, and it was resolved to refer the matter to the Borough Council for action. Mr Evans said it would facilitate matters in connection with work in Land, if the Chairman and members of {he Reserves Committee of the Borough Council were invited to the monthly meeting or the Beautifying association.— Approved. Mr Evans asked also that the work of renovating the Pioneers Memorial be gone on with m accordance with previous decision.— Approved. Hon Michel offered to give an illustrated lecture on the Pacific Isles on or about February 22nd, in aid of the hinds of the Association. The offer was accepted with thanks. Mr Mic le stated also that Mr Tom Pollard had expressed his willingness to give a picture benefit for the funds.— Accepted with thanks A letter from the Loenl Bodies Conference appreciating the work of the association was received with thanks. The meeting concluded at 9.30 o cloe v.