FIRE BRIGADE MATTERS.

Otaki Mail, Volume 26, 2 May 1919, Page 3

FIRE BRIGADE MATTERS.

A DEPUTATION TO TOWN BOARD. At last night's meeting of the Otaki Town Board a letter was received from the' secretary of the Otaki Fire Brigade, applying for a grant of £SO, and suggesting that a fire rate be struck. Messrs Cockrell, Anderson and Wells attended the meeting in support of the request.

Mr Cockrell pointed out that he and t Mr Anderson represented the store- \ keepers of the town, while Mr Wells J

! represented another portion of the business people, who had heavy risks. Mr Cockrell asked that the Board put the affairs of the brigade on a sound footing, and pointed out that the grant of £SO last year was not sufficient for the brigade to carry on, and in consequence disappointment had been ex- ! pressed, especially as some commissioners had suggested a grant of £IOO should be given. Tho brigado had some equipment it wanted more—while | there was a debt on the building which should have been paid long ago. The brigado was willing to do something for itself. If there- was a high-pressure water scheme it could do more work with less equipment. Mr Wells endorsed these remarks, and stated .the brigade had no one else it could appeal to for help. At present it had to supply chemicals for firo purposes at its own expense, and it was impossible to carry on unless assistance ; was forthcoming. If the Board stood to the brigado it meant a reduction in insurance rates. If the brigade could not get support members would show a lack of interest. Ho contended the Board should make a grant, or impose a small rato on the ratepayers. Mr Anderson endorsed tho previous speakers' remarks and considered it would bo a pity if the brigade had to go out of existence. Ho would regret very much such a step, especially as he had been a prime mover in its institu-. tion. It would be a hard thing to \ watch a fire and do nothing, and this i was what would havo to be done unless I help was forthcoming. i Mr Cockrell said tho public had sub- I scribed £15117s 9d, and it was not fair • to ask them to give more, as it was only the generous ones that helped. Mr Wells said if no support from tho Board was forthcoming the brigade would break up, and the blame would rest with the Board. Ho considered it the duty of the Board to help. All commissioners spoke in favour, of assisting, but it was pointed out that the Board's financial position was not j strong, therefore a large grant could not possibly be made. It was also stated that if a special rate was struck ' tho "fat would be in the fire,V and ratepayers generally be up in arms. Tho chairman, on behalf of the members, assured .tho deputation something would be done, and the matter would be further considered when { tho estimates were drawn up.