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Hokitika Guardian, 27 May 1927, Page 2

Tin: annual change in the presidency of the Westland County Council took place on Wednesday. Jt is customary, to make the office of Chairman a rolling one, and that was not departed from on this occasion. .Mr belfries Icing succeeded by Mr .Murdoch, who had the honor of being elected unopposed. The present is the fourth occasion on which Mr Murdoch has occupied the position and there "ill be no doubts in the public mind as to Ills ability to fill the office with every distinction. Mr Jeffries was well eulogised on retiring from office, and well deserved the recognition. He lias tilled the post, during a difficult year with firmness and zeal, and lrts kept a close watch on the affairs and business of the Council. All - Murdoch's legal knowledge has always been at, the service of the Council, and it has been invaluable. As the chief executive officer the Council "ill he under a further debt of gratitude to him, for there are sure to be matters requiring legal guidance, and the Chairman will he at hand to point- the way. The financial affairs were nisi) under review on Wednesday. There is in doubt the road expenditure has been heavy and a steady drain on the funds of the Council. To curtail that expenditure, and at the same time do justice to the roads without burdening the main body of ratepayers, is now to he the task of the Council if relief is to lie afforded financially. There is a very long length of roads in Westland, and the volume of traffic is very considerable and constant. It is both weighty and speedy, and is a tax on gravelled roads, most of which were built fir lighter and less speedy traffic. The wear and tear is obviously considerable. and that fact combined with the climatic conditions, necessitates constant work on the roads, which means steady expenditure. Considering the length of road and the burdens of the traffic, the roads are maintained in a very fair state all round. To that extent there is at least value given for the expenditure. It is a question now. however, of curtailing expenditure to keep within the reasonable means of the Council. It will devolve on the Chairman to maintain a watchful eye on works in hand and see that the instructions of the Council are being attended to. The Council certainly lias a loyal staff, and in that respect there should be a helpful response to assist Council through a difficult period. and give the new Chairman a not too unpleasant term of office.