Untitled

Hokitika Guardian, 13 April 1932, Page 4

The Hospital Board, like the County Council, has to undertake economy measures also. The Board finished up the year very well, considering tno extra, cost cast on the finances by means of welfare assistance. The net deficit was almost £4OO, but on top of that the Board is faced with decreased revenue from patients and subsidies. The Board has been endeavouring during its term to manage the institution economically, and the I results show that the members’ efforts ' have achieved a great deal. It was . possible to reduce the levy on the I local bodies which assisted materially in that direction, and helped to keep the rates down. At the same time the institution has boon well found and the management has not suffered in any way. While the unemployment .scheme is.often belittled in regard to the value received for the expenditure, them is no doubt that at the hospital institution there is a decided exception. Mr Davidson who taxes | more than a personal pride In the upkeep of the grounds and buildings, • actively supervises the work in am about the institution, and great value has accrued to the Board thereby. The 'property is being permanently improved, adding to its productivity, and the benefit will accrue for all time. The returns from the activities at the institution in the providing o! food supplies is a material help in the cost of management, and the accounts are showing the benefit, The Board has resolved on a levy on the lines of that of last year, hut it seems doubtful at the moment if that provision j will be ample. The Government is : preparing to take over certain changes ' and that will .be helpful. If the personnel of the Board i s substantially 1 retained, no doubt the same degree of interest in economical control "Ml he maintained, and as the members lake a directly personal interest, the best may he anticipated. The lot of the local members at this juncture 1 when cutting and economy are so i necessary is not a happy one, and it is fortunate for the district that gentlemen come forward and carry out their tasks with such success. M est land is well served by its public men