COUNTY COUNCIL

Opotiki News, Volume I, Issue 25, 22 April 1938, Page 2

COUNTY COUNCIL

SPECIAL MEETING HELD • ' OPOTIKI-TE ARAROA ArnlN.HIGHWAY . . - ■>. ' .J % . G 0 V'E/R N AIENT TO TAKE OVER ROAD# . A special meeting of the Opotiki County Council was held this morning to consider the following letter from Air R. H. P. Ronayne, district engineer. The county chairman, Air J. H. lleid, occupied, the chair Opotiki to Te Araroa Alain Highway—Maintenance, reconstruction, bridging. Recently the Alain Highways Board gave particular consideration to the necessity for improving the above mentioned highway situated within your county, the length under consideration being from the Motu turnoff (Waiawa River) to the county boundary, approximate distance being 66 miles.

I wish to notify you that the boarta is prepared to take over the control of this section of highway from your council on condition that your council pays a fixed contribution of £4OO per annum* as its. share of the cost of maintenance. This relatively low contribution has been adopted, the Board being aware that your council is unable to collect Native rates along this length but it must be understood that in the event of your council later being able to collect an appreciable amount of Native rates the board will require the contribution to be increased.

■A.s you are aware reformation work is, in hand with a view to the alignniexrb and width being raised "to a. reasonable standard. Also, the board realises that bridging on this route is of primary importance, and tenders close in a few days for the erection of five bridges and approaches. Proposals are on the verge of completion for other structures. The cost of bridging • over the length under consideration will be met from Highway

funds. s It will be appreciated if. you tan advise as early as possible as to whether your council is prepared to contribute at the rate of not- less than £4oo'per annum, this rate to be increased on the condition- as referred to above, provided Native rates can be collected.

The council went full}* into the’ matter, and after careful consideration unanimously, decided to accept the Department’s offer.