RUNCIMAN.

Pukekohe & Waiuku Times, Volume 1, Issue 23, 14 August 1912, Page 3

RUNCIMAN.

The following letter from Messrs Earl and Kent, solicitors, was read at the last meeting of the Karaka Road Board " Acting under instructions of Mr George Swann, a ratepayer, we have perused copy of minutes of the meetings of tho board and examined a plan of the Karaka Land Company's estate. From the information so gained we gather that your board proposes to stop the public roads on tbo block near the Runciman station abutting on the Whangapouri creek, aud to construct a new road or roads in place thereof, and that tenders have already been callod for the work of forming and constructing such new roads. We are desired to invito your attention to the fact that before any public road can be stopped the for : nullities prescribed by Section 131 of The Public Works Act must be fulfilled, aud that by Section 136 the cost of coustructing a new road in the present circumstances must be paid by the person upon whose motion and for whose convenience the action is taken. It seems quite clear that the proposed proceedings are for the convenience of tho KarakA Land Company, and we should be glad to know how your Imard justifies its proposed expenditure of the funds of the ratepayers for flie work in question. Your board in the circumstances can take no lawful step towards stopping a public road until ttte company pays into the district fund the cost of the proposed alterations. Our client has no desire to embarrass the board unduly but instructs us to give formal notice that if the board accepts any tender for the work referred to, action will be immediately taken in the Supreme Court to test the legality of the board's proceedings in this and other matters of a like character." On Tuesday, August 6th, a very pleasant gathering was held in the Presbyterian Church here, the occasion being the annual meeting of the congregation. About 50 members were present. The Rev. Dawson Madill, minister of the charge, presided. A very satisfactory balance-sheet was presented by the treasurer and four new members of committee were elected, Messrs Comrie, Johnstone, Henderson and Brookes. Musical items by friends from Papakura and also from local talent were given during the eveniig. A presentation was also macfe to Miss Cossey for her long and gratuitous services at the organ. Supper was provided by the ladies. A short address by the minister, followed by the benediction, closed a pleasant meeting.