GREY COUNTY FINANCE

Hokitika Guardian, 11 July 1927, Page 4

GREY COUNTY FINANCE

INCREASE TN RATES PREDICTED

At the- adjourned meeting of the Grey County Council, the Chairman (Mr J. Rynll) submitted the following statement, concerning the Grey County's financial position: ''l hog to report on the linancial position for the current year. The slump in the timber industry will have a serious street on the Council's finances and although the returns for the first quarter are satisfactory, the Council’s principal .source of revenue is likely to show a reduction of about three thousand pvunds. It is impossible to estimate the exact amount, but everything points to a substantial drop in Timber Royalties. In addition to loss of royalties, the Council will lose the whole of the rating on timber areas which have been exempted from the provisions of the Rating Act by a recent Supremo Court decision. This means a reduction of £-ViS in rates alone. Another hotel license has lapsed in the County, whilst the Health authorities are asking for the demolition of another licensed house. To make matters worse, the Hospital levy has increased from £3]o9 to £IOO3. this being more than half the total rate levied in the County. You will therefore realise that the Council will not 1)0 able to carry on with the present rate, whilst the possibility of a Power Board Rate will not help to make matters any the lighter for the County ratepayers.” The Council discussed the matter in committee.

On resuming open Council, it- was resolved to hold a special meeting, at a date to he fixed, during the present month, to strike the rate for the en-