ELTHAM.

Taranaki Daily News, 18 April 1917, Page 8

ELTHAM.

THE MAYORALTY. (From Our Own Correspondent). On-Tuesday Mr. T. B. Crump informed me that lio had decided to accede to the request of his supporters, and woul.l contest the. Mayoralty with the present oc-ejipant, Mr. Uriulshaw Dive. Cr. Lightbournc is the principal nominator of Mr. Crump, and ex-Councillor Carman is the present Mayor's first nominator. Both candidates are gentlemen who have been associated with public affairs in Eltliam for many years. Mr. Dive was one of the first councillors elected, and has had a fairly lengthy experience at the council table. Two years ago he successfully contested the honor with Mr. Goo. Buckeridge, and is prepared to give further assistance in municipal matters should the burgesses desire. There does not appear.to be any vital questions affecting the borough a,, the. moment, but there a.*c many who believe that tiic town requires "livening up," though in wiiat manner the process is to be brought about is not apparent. The borough finances, appear to be fairly satisfactory, and the Municipal Pictures are now a payable proposition. In this connection, the stand Sir. Dive took on the' picture question has had a lot to do with the improved financial position. - 1 Regarding Mr. Crump, burgesses have a candidate ready to do their bidding, and one who has bad previous experience to back him up in any decision necessary. Ex-Mayor Crump took a big part in the work of converting Eltliam from a village status to a borough. In those days it meant tremendous work, and probably is forgotten by many, but tin; fact remains that he was one who battled hard for Eltham's rights. Where these rights are now may be seen in the fine streets, gasworks, drainage, etc. [here are others who share in that bono", but Mr. Crump was one who was keen in Eltham's' progress, and probably is just as keen as the others to sec the town "liven up." It would not be safe to say anything about stagnation, but a bold policy might do much to regain a lot of interest in the town that has apparently beroi allowed to swing to other q;iarten. Both are capable men, and a decision cither way will see the control in efficient hands. Amongst the new men coming out is Mr. H. G. Carm'an, who lias sat on previous councils, and is a very useful man for works and financial committees. There are many who would like to see him cQntest the Mayoralty. As it is, lie will not be far from heading the poll for the council scats.