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Hokitika Guardian, 16 April 1927, Page 2

I iwcp. ___________ Tub number of candidates who have conic* forward for local body honors will afford the ratepayers the opportunity of making a choice for their representation on the principal civic bodies of the town. It is well that ft is so, for the occasion will cause a stir in local affairs which should prove of some measure of good. There is all too often a lack of serious interest in local matters, and the result . is a drift which is very noticeable. If representatives arc sent into office by the voice of the people and upon certain pledges which have to lie fulfilled, there is more hope of some progress. So far as municipal matters are concerned there has 'been a positive stagnation of late. This may lie due in the main to financial reasons, hut there are matters awaiting attention for which money must he found to secure amenities for the borough, which have grown indispeiisihle. Wo refer of course to the water supply, which it is the bounden duty of the Council to keep in order and certainly efficient. It has its shortcomings, and there is the feeling that a serious defect might present itself at any time. It is not pleasant to allow that predicament to exist or continue without! some effort to grapple with the proposition. The new Council will have to face the problem with very little delay. The domestic matters of the Council are governed by the revenue available, and in that respect it is a matter for cutting the cloth according to the garment. The best use will require to he made of the available funds, and where possible general economies will need to he practised in order to deal with the more pressing needs of the Borough, and in regard to that aspect permanent work should he done where possible. As to Hospital Board work, the main duty is to be watchful in regard to the administration. A very fine institution, well formed and equipped, has now been centrally established, and the administrative side of the management is the chief duty. The rates have to provide in the main for the upkeep of the institution and the ratepayers will welcome economical management, consistent with sound and useful work. Polling day does not arrive till Wednesday week, so that there is time to study the candidates and their qualificationes. It is now for the electors to Realise their responsibilities in the

mutter, mid to exercise round judgment in making a choice of those whom it is thought will do the I>est service for the community as a whole.