ROAD MAINTENANCE

Hokitika Guardian, 7 February 1929, Page 6

ROAD MAINTENANCE

— AUCKLAND, Ih'I). 5. . Koplyinp: to requests by settlors for more assistance for road maintenance | from the Main Highways Hoard, Mr A ! IC. .Tull, acting chairman of the Board said there had been complaints that substantial assistance was being given for work on the main roads and none for the others, but 4000 miles of second arv roads had boon formed. He did not think any consideration would he given for constructive work' as the primary object was to assist in maintenance. To grant the request for a subsidy on a GB for £1 basis, instead of £2 Ibr £1 as at present, would mean a iv-nrangemeut of subsidy contribnt ions. Mr .lull referred to the largo amount of tourist traffic using the roads but be pointed out tint the tourist was con!rihul imr to the petrol tax. I here was every desire on the nari ol the Main Highways Hoard lo help settlers hul the Hoard had a programme involving £:.\2o!>.nno Ibis year alone. \\ bile there had been an aeeumulalion• of funds from fhe petrol tax. the programme of work would quickly consume these funds. The introduction of a £3 for Cl subsidy mi secondary roads where it was not warranted would involve the Board in very serious responsibility, as it would mean an immediate demand for such a subsidy throughout the Dominion, .