“UNBUSINESSLIKE”

Sun (Auckland), Volume I, Issue 216, 1 December 1927, Page 18

“UNBUSINESSLIKE”

CRITICISM OF TAKAPUNA COUNCIL "Takapuna is noted as a fine nursing home for workmen,” observed Mr. J. Davis at a Takapuna Borough Council meeting last evening. “We must explode the idea that we are a philanthropic society and put matters on a sound business footing.” In opposing a proposal to allocate £1,500 to road maintenance work, Mr. Davis quoted a statement made by the assistant-engineer when a drainage contract was let some weeks ago to the effect that a dozen men would then have to be discharged. In spite of this reduction of work, the number of labourers employed had increased and is now 62, not including those employed on contract. This position was not satisfactory, and money was being spent too freely. The grant of £1,500 was authorised.

When speaking of holidays later in the evening, Mr. Davis again brought up the pledge of “business methods in council administration” given at the last ele" a. He stated that last Christmas men had been paid - fortnight in advance, when it was Impossible to calculate the hours they would work during the period. This had to be done as the borough offices were closed for several days. Such unbusinesslike methods would quickly bring the borough to bankruptcy. Such a step must not be taken this year.

It was decided to close this Christmas for two days only.