MUNICIPAL BY-ELECTION.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XXXI, Issue 485, 25 September 1909, Page 2

MUNICIPAL BY-ELECTION.

There are three nominations for the extraordinary vacancy on the Borough Council, caused by the retirement of Cr jenks. When nominations were previously called to fill the vacancy no one could be induced to come forward, although several prominent citizens were approached. The fact that a byelection should be allowed to go by default is evidence of a lack of interest in our municipal affairs by citizens. We are reminded that there are several matters of vital importance to be submitted lo ratepayers, including water and drainage scheme and the purchase of the Gas Works, In dealing with these important subjects, we require the best intelligence we can command, and yet we find some of our most influential people quite indifferent as to Foxton’s future. However, three gentlemen have decided to place their services at the disposal of. the ratepayers, and a poll will be taken on Friday next for the election ol one. The candidates are Messrs Chrystall, Dalhousie and Stewart. The first two are comparative strangers to Foxton —perhaps this accounts for their sense of citizenship, and this is their first attempt to enter public life. The last-named is our respected ex-schoolmaster, who was a candidate at the last biennial election. From what we know of the candidates, they are well qualified to occupy a seat at the “horse-shoe table.” Mr Chrystall is the first to express his views on municipal affairs. He is in favour of the water and drainage proposals, and municipalisalion of the gas works. From a progressive point of view he does not leave much to be desired. He is a practical man, and has had considerable experience in water supply matters. Mr Dalhousie’s views on municipal affairs are yet unknown. He is, however, a student on matters concerning the body politic, and if be can bring the same enthusiasm and intelligence to bear on our municipal affairs, as he has displayed in other connections, then he should make a very useful member of the Council. Mr Stewart expressed his willingness at the last election to support a progressive policy,

and he has ample time at his disposal to devote, to municipal matters. We hope the candidates will not observe a conspiracy of silence, but will rather express their views on and criticism of local municipal politics and administration. There is nothing like a shaking up of the dry bones.