RIVER PROTECTION AT HARI HARI

Hokitika Guardian, 6 December 1928, Page 4

RIVER PROTECTION AT HARI HARI

CONFERKXCK OF SETTLERS AND OFFICIALS.

At llarihari yesterday afternoon a eon Terence of settlers and officials was held in respect to the proposed protection works along the north hank of the Little Wanganui river, necessitated by reason of late river erosion which threatens the inter-Wanganui Settlement as a whole.

'I hose present including a number of settlers representing the River Board Mr .). Minohan (.who objects to the protection work, which it is alleged endangers his property) and with him his counsel, Mr 11. F. Doogan, of Greymouth. Messrs 11. 11. Sharp, Inspecting Fngineer, Mr T. A. Johnston, District Kngineer of the I‘ublic Works Department, Mr F. A. Wells, County Chairman, and Mr W. 11. Chinn, M.C.C. Apologies were made for the absence of Messrs Searlo and Jeffries, M’s.C.C.

Air W. Thiele presided and explained Hu* settlers were most anxious that the work should proceed, as they considered it an urgent necessity to save tin* Flat from future flood damage. II was explained on behalf of Mr Minelian that he sought security against possible damage, both to bis northern and .southern properties. He was prepared to sell the former at cost price, or would accept compensation in advance of ,C 2,000 and take the risk of damage. Mr Sharp referred to the liability which it was explained was on the River Board as the controlling authority. The Government had offered a subsidy on the application of the Board and the engineer bad advised a plan, which the County Council had been asked to carry out. The responsibility for any damages would rest primarily on the River Board.

Air Wells referred to the urgency of the work, and tho readiness of the Council to co-operate with the settlers. The Council could not accept any further liability in the matter, but was prepared to assist with its staff and plant in expediting the work. In the general discussion which followed it was pointed out neither the Board nor Hie settlers wished to do Ail* Mmedian any harm. 'They recognised his position, and the reason why In* was taking action to saleguard his i nterests.

Finally, Air Sharp said that on his return to Wellington early next week lie would place the whole matter before Air Furkert, Engiucer-iii-Chidf, and thereafter, they would he advised as to the Government attitude. In the meantime actual work would have to be deferred, though steps could he taken to procure piles and assemble all necessary material. But ill view of the contingent liability as to legal action he advised that the work he not started meantime.

Eventually this course was agreed to, and the visiting officials were thanked for their attendance and the patience with which they had gone into the matter.