THE Kaipara Advertiser, AND WAITEMATA CHRONICLE. WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 17, 1913. COUNTY MATTERS.

Kaipara and Waitemata Echo, 17 September 1913, Page 2

THE Kaipara Advertiser, AND WAITEMATA CHRONICLE. WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 17, 1913. COUNTY MATTERS.

When the movement to have j the County headquarters established in the country district (instead of in the city of Auckland) was before the Council we understand it was defeated by one vote only. An informal discussion bj>- a group of Councillors last week shows that the question is still seriously iv mind. It was contended that the Council's expenses were far too heavy, and that the saving by removing to the. country district and erecting its own offices would be considerable. The chief differences of opinion on the matter are as to the place to select. While some favour Hcleiisville others thought that Now Lynn or Henderson would be suitable. But it is advisable when a move is made to consider which district is best situated and can offer most advantages, accommodation, train service, bank, etc., and when this is done we think the choice would fall on Helensville. And an important consideration is the fact that at the Auckland end of the county the formation of boroughs is rapidly absorbing the County's territory, a feature which is sure to continue within the next ten years as in the past. The County is being gradually driven northwards, and its headquarters should come north also. It was alleged that the Council's work is much hampered by city influences, deputations, casual callers, etc., and that a lot of this would be avoided if a move were made to the country. We are informed that when the question was up previously. Councillor Dye, the northernmost member, voted against moving to Helensville, and that his views have not altered. But ■ we have not the slightest hesi- J tation in saying that the inter- ! ests of Kaukapakapa riding and >l all northern districts would bo t much better served with the County''s headquarters at Hel- J ensville, and we cannot readily { believe that the attitude of the t riding member on this question c has the- hearty support of the c ratepayers. When the matter j again comes ibefore the Council we hope to find Kaukapakapa riding member voting with the \ other northern representatives, t