Manawatu Herald. SATURDAY, MARCH 27, 1920.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XLII, Issue 2108, 27 March 1920, Page 2

Manawatu Herald. SATURDAY, MARCH 27, 1920.

OUR comments in reference to the formation of a local Fire Brigade and lire-fighting' equipment for the borough, and the Council's attitude .in connection therewith is more than justified in connection with the recent conllagralion. We slated on that occasion “that if the scheme was to he a success the Council must recognise a wider financial responsibility than that indicated." This does not imply that the Mayor and Councillors are not sympathetic. . We believe they are, but it is useless to expect such an institution to be placed on a proper foundation with a £SO plant and a shed. Neither do we expect that the Council can make provision fur such purposes out of the general rate. They have quite enough to do to husband the •finances for maintenance work, and the £SO paid for I lie chemical engine is a strain on the finances. But that is not the point. If a fire brigade and fire-fighting plant is a public necessity —and we believe it is—then it is the duty of the Council to tackle it iu a comprehensive way (under the powers contained in the “Municipal Corporation Act), and give it a proper staTt. To do this will require a sum approximating £2,000. . To provide this fund

a loan-proposal should ho -submitted to the ratepayers, and a small stimuli rate struck over the whole boron "'ll. To leave the matter as at present is to court failure, as the .burden of upkeep will be thrown upon the shoulders of a few enthusiasts- and voluntary givers, whereas a loan will distribute the burden upon all at an annual cost that, will hardly be felt.