NEW PLYMOUTH HARBOR COMMISSION.

Patea Mail, 12 September 1881, Page 4

NEW PLYMOUTH HARBOR COMMISSION.

“ The New Plymouth Harbor Commission Act, 1881,” now before the Assembly, gives the Commissioners to be named by the House full power and authority to inquire and report upon the following matters : (1.) As to the utility and practicability of such works, and as to what prospect there is of such works, if completed, or to some extent completed, forming a useful harbor at New Plymouth, and generally as to what extent such works will provide accommodation for shipping ; (2.) As to the financial position and prospects of the Board, especially in connection with the said loan, and as to the probability or otherwise of such works proving remunerative ;

(3.) As to the fairness, having regard to the extent to which such works will benefit the lands in the rating district, of rating equally, or otherwise, all or any of the land included within such rating district, for the purpose of paying the interest and sinking fund payable on the loan ; (4.) And generally to make all such inquiries and investigations as they may deem necessary for the purposes of this Act, and to that intent to inquire into all the works undertaken or proposed to be-undertaken by or on behalf of the Board, and into all contracts, including therein any ; promises or engagements now existing, made, or entered into, or alleged to have -been made or entered into, by or on behalf of the Board, to or with any person or persons in respect of any such works as may be necessary to enable the General Assembly to decide upon the expediency of continuing the said works or otherwise.

The Commission must report within six months after date of appointment. They will be entitled to all reasonable remuneration for their services. After the passing of the Act, all powers vested in the New Plymouth Harbor Board, and all real and personal property of the Board, will be vested in and performed by the Governor, but it will not be lawful for the Governor to proceed further with the execution of the works, except lo prevent injury to works already executed, or to plant or material. So long as the Act remains in foicc, all moneys are to be paid into the Consolidated Fund, to a separate account, to be called the “ New Plymouth Harbor Fund Account,” the Colonial Treasurer to act as Receiver and Paymaster, as regards the payments of interest and sinking fund becoming due on the loan, or any other liabilities of the Board legally incurred at the date of the passing of the Act.