The Gas Works.

Taranaki Daily News, Volume XLVI, Issue 137, 14 June 1904, Page 2

The Gas Works.

SUGGESTED ACQUISITION 11Y THE HOltOL'Ull. The Mayor announced last night that a prominent shareholder of the lias Company had told him that if fhe council would sot up a committee to meet the company it would be prepared to treat for the sale of the works to the Corporation by arbitration.

Cr. ISrooking moved that the Mayor mid Crs. Brooking and Wood be appointed to interview the Gas Company's directors and report to the council as to the probability of satisfactory arrangements being made for the purchnse.

Cr. Carter thought yie overtures 'ihoiihl come from tho compauv to the council.

l'he Mayor said that there was, of course, nothing definitu stated. Cr. Woods said this ivas a friendly move by the company, and n hint, that the works could by acquired. The Mayor explained that with nit the company's consent, or by spinal legislation, it -was impossible to acquire the works. Tho committee could report, to the council something definite to put'before the ralepayers.

Cr. Ahier followed, suggesting that the Gas Company's directors should bo asked to meet the council in committee, lie -had not been "buttonholed by any prominent member.

Cr. Wilson said there was a misunderstanding. Tho council was seeking after a property, and must go to tho owners of it, not exoect lh« owners to come to the council. 'Hie council's duty was to save the money of the ratepayers, if possible, by avoiding (lie expenses of putting a privaye bill through Parliament. The motion wuh carried, without dissent.