THE KARAKA BRIDGES.

Pukekohe & Waiuku Times, Volume 3, Issue 158, 2 January 1914, Page 4

THE KARAKA BRIDGES.

Should Mauku Contribute ? Was an Objection Lodged? In connection with the proposed construction of the Hingaia and Glataun's creeks bridges the solidt.rs for the Karaka Road Bca d decided to proceed with their action for contributions from tne Franklin County Council as if no obection had been received, on the ground that it was informal.«inasmuch as the grounds for such objection were not stated. As a matter of fact only a general objection had been made. The county solicitor, Mr Hanna, wrote to the County Council at their last meeting, saying that he had reviewed the matter. In the first place it was the duty of the Karaka Road BoarJ to prepare plans, specifications and estimated for the work and supply copies of these to the Council. Was this done? [The answer was, No.] But assuming that this was done ths Couocil's objection should have been lodged with the Governor within two months, and a copy of the objection and grounds sent tJ the Karaka Koad Boar:!. Since a letter of objection had been gent it might be said that all the necessary steps had heen taken by the Council, -'though looking at the position from a strict pcint of view there is room for the contention that you have not complied with the provisions of the act. Two points, however, count in your favour: firstly, that the assistant Under-Secretary of Public Works, in acknowledging the receipt of your letter, states that "your objection has been duly noted and tbii matter will be dealt with as required by law"; secondly, the Act described the procedure for determining a dispute when once an objection is lodgtd. "In my mind," the writer went on, "you have lodged an objection." The letter proceeded to discuss other legal aspects of the case. The Council took no action in this connection, but it is understood that the Public Works Department proposes to treat the refusal of the County Couccil (who are cited on behalf of the Mauku riding) to contributi towards the cost of the construction of the bridges as an objection within the meaning of the Act. The next step will ba for the Governor to appoint a Commission to go into the matter and determine which outside districts, if any, should be required to contribute.