HARBOR BOARD.

Taranaki Daily News, 16 April 1919, Page 6

HARBOR BOARD.

MONTHLY MEETING. The monthly meeting of the New Plymouth Harbor Board was held yesterday, Mr. Newton King presiding. There were also present: Messrs C. E. Bellringer, E, Dockrill, J. MeCluggage, D. J. Hughes, C. E. McGuhmess, J. S Connett, and E. Maxwell.

HARBORMASTER'S REPORT. Captain Waller (harbormaster) reported that for the four weeks ending April 12 the number of vessels entering the port was 10, the aggregate tonnage being 14,793 tons. The imports amounted to 6730 tons and exports to 1010 tons, making a total of 7746 tons. The Government landed 382 tons of coal.

ENGINEER'S REPORT. Mr. J. Blair Mason, the board's engineer, reported that for the four weeks ended April 12 the Paritutu dredged on 22 days, the net time of dredging being 103 hours, and removed a total quantity of 24,000 tons of spoil in 61 loads. Thirty-six loads were lifted with the buckets and 25 with the sand pump. Dredging was stopped for one day owing to a southerly gale. One day was occupied in bunkering S3 tons of coal direct from the s.s. Kowhai. Seven concrete blocks had been placed on tnc apron at the outer end of the breakwater.

The installation of the cargo lights had been delayed by the contractor finding difficulty in procuring the necessary suitable plugs. It was understood that these were now to hand, and the work should be completed early.

GENERAL. The engineer was granted authority to take the necessary steps to proceed with the construction of the breakwater and Moturoa wall, subject to the loan proposals being carried. The date of the annual meeting for the election of chairman was fixed for May 13.

Mr. Bellringer was appointed sinking fund commissioner, to succeed the late Mr. ,1. B. Connett.

Captain Waller submitted a chart giving the results of soundings taken on the 11th hist, and showing that the fairway had been considerably widened and that there was an average depth ol about 25 feet at low water. "

It Vtas decided to donate £lO 10s to the' Peace Celebrations Committee to assist in defraying the expenses of the local celebrations.

Accounts amounting to £939 13s 2d were'passed for payment.