A BIG ROADING SCHEME.

Otaki Mail, Volume 27, 14 November 1919, Page 4

A BIG ROADING SCHEME.

SUGGESTIONS BY THE COUNTY CHAIRMAN. At the las.t meeting of the Horoivhenua County Council the Chairman (Cr. G. A. Monk) said at the next meeting of the Council the election of chairman "would take place. He had occupied the position for the past four years, and perhaps they had not made the progress they should have done, but it had to bo taken into consideration the war had been on. The Council had made some progress as far as road construction was concerned, and had learned that they would have to go oven further in this connection. Twelve months ago matters had been shelved to see what action the Government would take, but beyond promises it had done nothing. One thing was certain v. r as that the Council would have to have up-to-date machinery for the roads; and he did not think it would be economical to go on as they were at present doing. South of Otalti there was a perfect stretch of road, but the question was how long would it last. Ho considered if a permanent surface was not put on it would be unable to hold against the motor traffic. They should take into consideration the question of going in for a big loan —it was no good tinkering with matters. Thousands of pounds would have to be | raised, and. lie suggested that the ser- ! vico3 of a consulting engineer be secured, who would be assisted by the Council’s engineer. Cr. Monk considered it would cost £50,000 to £60,000 to do the roads, but ho asked councillors to give the mattor full consideration. It was to the Council’s credit that llic present road-making machinery had been bought out of rovenuo; other counties had purchased theirs by special loan. Cr. Monk, in conclusion, said he had been in the chair for four years, but felt that there were other councillors who were entitled to the position, and if it was their wish ho would relinquish it. He thanked all for their support, and considered that business had been done expeditiously and well. He thanked the staff for their good work, and the press, who had always reported fairly and given councillors a fair and square hearing.