PUKETARATA TOWN HALL.

King Country Chronicle, Volume VI, Issue 477, 26 June 1912, Page 5

PUKETARATA TOWN HALL.

Own Correspondent,

A well attended and representative meeting of the settlers of the Kiu Kio and Puketarata districts was held in the Puketarata school on Friday for the purpose of discussing the proposal to build a public hall. Mr A. J. Ross was voted to the chair. A letter was received from the Land Board stating that Ministerial authority had been obtained to sell the settlers two acres adjoining the creamery. The price fixed was £SO. Several of those present expressed their disapproval of the L-and Board's attitude. It wa3 only eight years or so since the land in question was opened at £1 per acre, and apart from the ridiculous valuß now set on the section, it was pointed out that the settlers had effected the improvements which would tend to increase the original value, and where a site was required for a public purpose it was scarcely fair to charge the settlers for the result of their own work. It was finally decided to Reject the board's offer. Mr Ellis offered a site of half an acre as a contribution to the hall fund, and this was accepted with acclamation. Messrs A. J. Ross and Hudson were appointed a committee to arrange for the transfer of the site and for the raising of the funds necessary for the scheme.

Messrs A. J. Ross, Budge, F. Ogle, Gorringe, Burke, W. M. Ross, Faulkner, Ellis, Danks and Hudson were appointed a committee of management to see to the details of building. A present it is suggested that a substantial shell 50 by 30 be erected, minimising the cost as far as possible, but providing for the addition of the finishing touches at a future date.

The want of a hall is very evident, and it is hoped that the committee will have the financial and practical help of the settlers. Many hands make light work, and if everybody lends a hand the opening of the Puketarata hall should not be long delayed.