COUNCIL MATTERS.

Levin Daily Chronicle, 17 May 1917, Page 2

COUNCIL MATTERS.

Uie K'htnr:. Sir, —In reading the report of the meeting of the Horowlienua 'County Council of May Ist, I notice that the council has raised the salaries of tile engineer and county clerk by £16 13s 4d per annum for three 1 years; that means that the ratepayers have to find £50 for each of these officers in thiree years. Now, Sir, having nothing n gainst Dlie.se gentlemen, why have the council raised these salaries? Are not both these officers in receipt of a good income already. Is it because of the cost of living? which I presume would be the excuse. If so, have not the ratepayers to pay as much for their living as these officers of the council, and' • I daresay work harder and' get half the salary, or wages. Soon, Sir, we shall have a rate-card sent out to Us with amount of rates due. Will the council see fit to give us a rebate on account of dear living ? I venture to say no. This extra money that the council is paying out to the officers aforesaid could be very well spent in completing some of the works that have been left unfinished, such, for instance as that on the main road between Beach and Boxilton roads or could be spent on the water-a^aces; but the water-nac& question is a big thing and can be 'left till later on. I am writing this in protect, and I trust that some other ratepayers will speak out on this matter. Thanking you in anticipation. I am, etc., (REKIJAW.