SIR JAMES WILSON RETIRES.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XLVIII, Issue 3032, 6 May 1926, Page 2

SIR JAMES WILSON RETIRES.

FROM MANAW,ATU COUNTY COUNCIL AFTER 43 YEAJRS SERVICE. At Tuesday’s meeting of the Manawatu County Council, Sir James Wilson, who has been a member of that • body for 34 years and its chairman for 26 years, anounced that he did not intend to seek reelection. Sir James outlined the growth and development of the district since his arrival in 1873, and the activities of. the County during that period. In concluding a most interesting review, Sir James tendered his sincere thanks to the Councillors and staff for their help and assistance to him and expressed the belief that the present staff was most efficient. Councillor W. E. Barber moved the following resolution: —“That the Council place on record its sincere appreciation of the long and faithful service rendered to the ratepayers of the County of Manawatu by the Chairman, Sir James G. Wilson, as a Councillor since 1892, and as chairman since 1898, and regrets that he has not seen lit to allow himself to be re-nomina-ted for another term, and that the Council hopes that he will enjoy good healh for many years to come.” Councillor Hunt seconded.the motion, and with Councillor Fagan, paid a tribute to the services of the retiring chairman. Mr. A. K. Drew, County clerk, also expressed the appreciation of the staff of Sir James’ help and assistance and their deep regret at his retirement. Mr. Drew quoted a few figures to show the great development that had taken place since Sir James tirst joined the Council. In 1892 the total revenue was £5,598, and the public debt £19,000. Since then all the loans representing this debt had matured and had been paid. The revenue to-day amounted to £30,000, and the public debt was £59,588. The expenditure on road maintenance in 1892 was £1561, and last year the County expended £11,212. ' The resolution was carried, after Sir James had returned thanks and promised to give the Council any assistance it might require.