ADVANCE LEVIN!

Manawatu Herald, Volume XLVIII, Issue 2989, 21 January 1926, Page 2

ADVANCE LEVIN!

OPENING OK MUNICIPAL BUILDINGS.

Levin’s new municipal buildings erected at a cost' of €29,400 were officially, opened by Mr. J. Linklatcr M.P., before a large gathering of local and district people yesterday afternoon. The Mayor (Mr. Hobson) presided and extended a welcome to those present, included among whom were representatives of local bodies throughout the district. Prior to the speech-making the visitors were entertained at tea in the lounge after an inspection of the offices and theatre.

The Mayor of Levin, expressed pleasure at the completion of the building, which he described as evidence of the growth of the town and confidence in its future. The Prime Minister sent a letter of apology for non-attendonce, stating that he cordially appreciated the honour of the invitation, but found it impossible to accept.

Mr. ,J. Linklater said the building marked another milestone in the progress of Levin and he congratulated past and present Mayors and Councillors who had to do with the conception and completion of thebuilding and the ratepayers who sanctioned the loan. The structure was an ornament to the town and its equipment was second to none in the Dominion for a town of Levin’s size. He said when the late Prime Minister had laid the foundation stone, he expressed the wish that a superstructure befitting the town would he erected and his wish had been fulfilled. lie said he was pleased to notice among those present several pioneers “and 1 am sure yon will join with me in according them a hearty welcome," and added: “When we look around this district to-day and mark the smiling homesteads, tanas and line buildings, it is difficult to realise that, less than 40 years ago, the site of Ibis progressive town was dense bush. The growth of the (own has been phenomenal and I am confident it; will continue to progress.” He referred to the improved roads serving the town and stated that Levin’s climate and soil was second to none in the Dominion and that it was the centre of rich farming lands which would make its development imperative. He then, formally declared the building open and felt certain it would be a source of pleasure and profit to the community.

Speeches were also made by the Mayor of Foxton, by Mr. Keedwell for the building committee, Mr. G. Cateley for the County Council and Mr. Matheson for the Power Board, Mr. C. G. Cray of the Fire Board, and Mr. Bennie, the architect.

The proceedings concluded with the singing of the National Anthem.