The Hokitika Guardian THURSDAY, OCT. 12th, 1922. ROAD MAINTENANCE.

Hokitika Guardian, 12 October 1922, Page 2

The Hokitika Guardian THURSDAY, OCT. 12th, 1922. ROAD MAINTENANCE.

The question of motor taxation as a means to raise additional revenue for the upkeep of the roads of the district was prominently before tlie County Council on Tuesday. Apart from the proposals to tax traffic for which the draft by-law was carefully considered, a deputation of automobilists united on

the Council to urge improved roads, and at the same asked for a reduction in the proposed charges. The alternative to local revenue was the flotation of a loan for the purchase of machinery, but it was pointed out the Council had attempted that course and had failed to secure the sanction of the ratepayers. It was pointed out at the meeting so that till the heavy motor traffic came, the roads were being ade-

quately maintained and it was for that reason tile new taxation was proposed. Heretofore the motorists have had the free use of the roads without any charge. For the last year or so the motor lorry proprietors have been paying a fee. but under tbe by-law that charge is to he reduced, so that the motor, users of the roads have little to complain of. The ratepayers generally have been shouldering the burden of road maintenance, and in respect- to the task it has involved a heavy drain on tile expenditure. The

suggestion from the deputation that suitablo roadmaking. machinery should be obtained is one way of meeting the difficulties in the matter of maintenance. But as a loan cannot be raised, extra revenue alone can provide frr the cost of tile plant, and hence arrives the decision to ini peso special taxation. Tf the Council decides on a serviceable plant, for the work ahead of it, and is able thereby to secure the i proper upkeep of the roads, in tbe end those using the roads and deriving a benefit from the improvements will not begrudge the extra payment levied. Naturally the measure of attention to tbe roads and bridges is governed by the money available. and with the funds at hand there is no reason why the Council should not lie progressive like other districts, and do

its road work largely bv mechanical means. T-ke Council has bad a useful experience with the motor lorry, which for a year past nearly, has been operating in various parts of the district. The resells obtained through that means seem to warrant further ventures with machinery as aids to more effective and more economical work in regard to the upkeep of the roads. The Council is considering; the rjuestion of adding to its road plant, and if it pan see its way with regard to the purchase of the machinery it would appear it would bo wise in the end to do so. Tile general experience certainly points to that conclusion.