King Country Chronicle Wednesday, December 6, 1911. THE LIGHTING QUESTION.

King Country Chronicle, Volume VI, Issue 420, 6 December 1911, Page 5

King Country Chronicle Wednesday, December 6, 1911. THE LIGHTING QUESTION.

- A most important public utility has been under consideration by Te Kuiti Borough Council for soma time past in the shape of a lighting scheme to provide street lignts, and also serve the needs of householders. Some

months ago the majority of ratepayers regarded the question as settled in favour of petrol gas. However, further consideration was claimed for the subject by certain members of the council, and after exhaustive investigation it has been decided by a majority of members that an electric system shall be installed. The proposal has yet to come before the ratepayers to receive sanction for raising the necessary capital. That the council's action will be endorsed by the public is probable, inasmuch as the requirement of an urgent nature, and apart from the relative merits of the various gases and electricity, it is high time the town was lighted. The decision of the council has not been arrived at wihtout the keenest cntrovcrsy, and heated debates have more than once made memorable the lighting question. However, differences of opinion on matters affecting the public welfare are not entirely without virtue, and a keenly contested point is frequently the means of stirring to interest both councillors and ratepayers. In boroughs like Te Kuiti each step taken is of the highest importance, and discussion from all points should be widely welcomed. Our councilors are at present layinig the foundations of the civic enterprise of the town, and upon the soundness of such foundations great issues in future will depend. Every measure adopted should be wisely and thoroughly considered, due weight being given, and ample provision made for the naturally large expansion which must ensue from j?ear lo year in jsuch towns Te Kuiti and other King Country centres. Our towns are but in their infancy and their infant steps must be guided by men of comprehending intellect, and possessing the expansive mind which has visions beyond the immediate and present surroundings. The limitations of our public bodies are clearly set as to financial limits, but in the not far distant future is promised the exercise of broader functions, and 'greater responsibility to the local bodies of the Dominion. In any case the pioneer efforts of the present are but the preparation necessary for the administering of greater issues in future, and each experience undergone is an addition to the equipment necessary to fit our public spirits to take a hand in guiding the ■destinies of a great and growing district.