WESTLAND COUNTY ELECTIONS

Hokitika Guardian, 4 May 1929, Page 6

WESTLAND COUNTY ELECTIONS

The County elections take place on Wednesday next in the three Hidings. Polling hours will be from 9 a.in. to G p.m. There are in all some 37 polling the most northern being at Otira and the most southern at Okuru.

On this occasion a new form ol ballot paper is introduced into local County elections. It is similar to the form used at general elections tending more to the secrecy of the ballot. Under the new system of compiling the roll all ratepayers are now enrolled but may not vote unless their rates were paid by the end of last week. Holders of miners’ rights issued up to September last who reside in the County are also enrolled, and may vote on that qualification if not enrolled already ,as a ratepayer and have paid all rates duo.

Electors must not vote for more than .the number of 'vacancies open, but may vote for a lesser number than the vacancies.

Persons who may consider they arc off the roll improperly may claim a vote by declaration, stating the qualification they claim under. Non-pay-ment of rates is however a complete disqualification as provided by the Counties Act.

Arrangements are being [made to have the returns telegraphed from all outside stations on the night of the election, so that the final results should be available between 8 and 9 o’clock.

Then' will ho a polling booth at the County Chambers for the three Ridings. The Hokitika booth will lx? itho ,only one. whereat electors qualified may vote for the three Ridings.