The Manawatu Herald. THURSDAY. MAY 2, 1907. DRAINAGE BOARD.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XXIX, Issue 3763, 2 May 1907, Page 2

The Manawatu Herald. THURSDAY. MAY 2, 1907. DRAINAGE BOARD.

Some time ago, when the flood waters from the Manawatu river were lying across the main roads for a considerable distance on this side of the Whirokino bridge and at Shannon the stench from which was abominable —we suggested the formation of a Drainage Board to deal in a comprehensive manner with the overflow. In conversation with Cr. G. Barber recently, our representative was informed that the majority of settlers in the area affected are in favour of the establishment of a Drainage Board. The settlers recognise that unity is necessary in dealing with the question. A little private drainage here and there is simply trifling with the subject. If a Board is formed a comprehensive scheme can be brought down and the overflow kept under complete control. To accomplish this it will be necessary to specify the area over which a special rate will require to be struck to provide interest, and sinking fund to carry out the scheme. The rate settlers will be asked to contribute will be infinitisimal in proportion to the enhanced value that will accrue to their lands. We understand that it is Cr Barber’s intention to convene a meeting of settlers interested, when the necessary steps will be taken to form the Board. We hope every settler will attend, and give his hearty support to the movement. In order to form the Board a petition of a majority of the ratepayers in the proposed area is presented to the Governor in Council, who straightway brings the Board into being. The Board shall consist of not less than five, nor more than seven persons, and the Governor shall appoint the day on which the election is to be held. A ratepayers’ list shall be prepared. The members of the Board shall hold office for three years. 1 The Board, for the purpose of the administration of the Act; shall have and may exercise within the area of the drainage district all the powers and authorities conferred upon a County Council. The Board will have power to levy a rate not exceeding six farthings in the pound, on the rateable value of all* -lands within the area. The Board, with the consent of the ratepayers,, can from

time* to time raise special loans, and may borrow moneys from the Bank by way of overdraft. The Board may from time to time make by-laws providing for the cleansing, maintenance, and repair of drains, etc. In fact, all the powers etc. with which the Board is vested, are contained in the Land Drainage Act of 1904, which could be fully outlined at the public meeting. We hope no time will be lost in bringing the settlers together to discuss the important subject.