POWER BOARD.

Putaruru Press, Volume VII, Issue 314, 14 November 1929, Page 3

POWER BOARD.

THAMES VALLEY AREA. November Meeting. A meeting of the Thames Valley Power Board was held on Tuesday, Mr. F. Strange presiding. Those present were: Messrs. F. E. Flatt, H. E. Torr, H. M. Corbett, J. M. Allen, J. McCormack, J. Pohlen, J. Price, J. Anderson, C. A. Arthur. Messrs. J. B. Thomas and H. R. Bush were granted leave of absence. Danger to Stock.

Mr. A. E. Brookes, Okauia, Matamata, wrote referring to the high tension line which he understood the board contemplated continuing across his property. Previously it was only the low tension line that came across, and the writer drew attention to the fact that the paddock through which the line passed was always used as a night paddock for his cattle. These were all pedigree Jerseys, many of which were prize stock and of considerable value, in some instances costing over 100 guineas. “In the interests of the board and myself I wish te feel quite at ease as to the security of the wires, which at times are subject to great strains during the terrific gales which we at times experience in this district,” wrote Mr. Brookes. “ Under the circumstai ces, perhaps, some extr-\ precautionary methods may be taken so that there will be no possibility of the wires coming down in the paddock.”

The manager said the extension was necessitated by the increased load in the district. The line was constructed in accordance with the latest regulations, and all care was exercised. The cables were seven strands of 16 gauge copper and there would be little danger of their being broken by the wind. The board was liable for any damage caused by broken lines.

Faulty Meters. A Ngatea farmer, Mr. J. W. O’Brien, wrote complaining of a faulty meter. The engineer said that all the meters were tested before they were sent out. Some of the meters had started to “ creep ” after installation due to handling in transport. This was not serious and the meters were repaired immediately the fault was noticed. Few of the meters had given trouble. At a later stage of the meeting the engineer explained the system of testing and gave a demonstration to members.

Power for Halls. “ I have been instructed by I my committee to request you to have the power disconnected immediately at the Elstow school, as the board is unable to reduce the lighting costs,” wrote the secretary, Mr. H. W. Blackford. “ The committee is sorry to have to take this step, but £3 a year is beyond all reason for about six or eight meetings in a year.” The chairman said that the question of the charges to halls, schools and churches would have to be reviewed with the object of giving more favourable terms. The engineer pointed out that the same trouble was involved in reading a meter for one unit as for 100 units. Mr. Flatt said there was no urgency, but he agreed that some alteration should be made in the minimum .charge foy such consumers. Accident at Okoroire. Mr. A. Hawes, troubleman, reported a collision by a board truck with a car owned by Mr. T. Mullholland, and driven by Mr. N. L. Higginson, about li miles from Okoroire, on October 20. Financial. Accounts totalling £20,058 10s 7d (power fund) and £4894 2s 2d (loan fund) were passed for payment.