MUNICIPAL ELECTIONS.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XXXV, Issue 1081, 29 March 1913, Page 2

MUNICIPAL ELECTIONS.

Those who desire to record their votes at the forthcoming municipal elections should lose no time in seeing that their names are on the roll. Any doubts as to qualifications, etc., cat? be set right by calling at the Town Clerk’s office. So far, there are two Richmonds in the field for the mayoralty, the present mayor, Mr Gibbs, and Mr Harvey. The former has served on the Council for some time, and when Mr Stiles resigned from the chair, Mr Gibbs was elected by his fellow Councillors to fill the position, and he has discharged his duties during the interim in a very capable manner. The experience he has gained during his term of office should provide him with the necessary qualifications for a further term. At a later date he will no doubt give an account of his stewardship and take the electors into his confidence as to his future policy. His opponent is a comparative stranger to Foxton, and while he may possess all the qualifications necessary to fill the civic chair with credit, a grave reflection is cast upon prominent citizens of long standing who remain in the background. To be compelled to ask a stranger to shape our destinies when there are dozens of capable citizens to fill the position, is evidence of the selfish indifference manifested in civic affairs—by our prominent men. We do not in any way reflect upon Mr Harvey, because nomination for the office of chief citizen is not of his seeking, and if elected he may be the means of shaking up the dry bones by an example of citizenship, which should shame those who should strive to win honour by serving their town and fellows. In respect to the Council, it is matter for regret that we are to lose the services of Crs. Adams, Greig and Stewart, but the rest of the Councillors will again offer their services to the burgesses, and some new blood will be forthcoming to fill the vacancies. We hope that the electors will take an intelligent interest in the candidates, and return the best men available.