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Hokitika Guardian, 17 November 1931, Page 4

Matters municipal are in quiet vein, due to the steady progress with minor improvements, about the town. 'me finance is restricted due to the late heavy expenditure on water supply race renewals, which absorbed accumulated funds. But the arrival of the No. 5 scheme to relieve unemployment has been a blessing in disguise. for most small boroughs of restricted means. A large amount of general work has- been possible under the supervision of the Council’s officers without encroaching too much on the funds. But some extra cost was inevitable for material, plant, and horse hire, to carry out the works. The general result must be considered very satisfactory to the ratepayers. Much useful drainage work has 'been done. A general cleaning up has-re-sulted. Bare paths and streets have been gravelled. Some new streets have been formed and others cleared for improvement as funds are available for metalling. Several reserves have also had attention, so that on the whole it will be seen useful work has been carried out. The effect is pleasing cud no doubt will be enhanced as further funds are available. The water snupb- has been maintained in a- satisfactory condition, though it is known’ there is a contingent liability in sight to improve some depreciating section of the pipe line. A

considerable cost will be involved in the purchase of material, and as the Council lias set its face against further borrowing, lack of funds at present prevt'nt attention to any extensive renewals.* Meantime the Council is endeavouring to make ends meet with the least cost to the ratepayers.