THE Hauraki Plains Gazette With which is Incorporated THE OHINEMURI GAZETTE. MONDAY, WEDNESDAY, FRIDAY. “Public Service.” WEDNESDAY, MARCH 29, 1944. MUNICIPAL ELECTIONS

Hauraki Plains Gazette, Volume 53, Issue 32413, 29 March 1944, Page 4

THE Hauraki Plains Gazette With which is Incorporated THE OHINEMURI GAZETTE. MONDAY, WEDNESDAY, FRIDAY. “Public Service.” WEDNESDAY, MARCH 29, 1944. MUNICIPAL ELECTIONS

In Paeroa at least there is evidence that greater interest than usual will be attached to the municipal elections in May. Already rumour has it that one “ticket” is in the field and its personnel is, we believe, to be announced shortly. It has been realised that unless the public takes its responsibilities more seriously it is readily possible for one organisation by intensive preparation to changd the whole representation on the council. This is possible because only a percentage of those eligible to vote exercised the franchise. Thus there is the opportunity for any organisation to “steal a march” on all others, which it is fully entitled to do. . The result might well be what would in effect be a “minority” council for the simple reason that a large proportion of the public did not exercise the right to vote. What is desired is a majority council elected on the voting of all those on the roll. Indications are that there will be a plethora of nominations, which is a healthy sign of interest in municipal administration. The council elected in May will hold office for three years and in that period matters of importance to the town will have to be decided. It can be hoped that before the end of the term peace will have returned and a policy of reconstruction after the war will have I to be adopted. In municipal matters as in national affairs it has been necessary to suspend major works which normally would have been undertaken. The council's share is a comprehensive water supply utilising the Waitawheta stream, post war roading and footpathing plan, extension of public services and action to assist to solve the housing problem are only a few of the tasks which will have to be faced. There was never greater need for capable and, progressive administration. The matter is in the hands of the public. The issues at stake are too important to allow the election to be decided by default.