WHITELEY LEASES.

Taranaki Daily News, 14 November 1922, Page 4

WHITELEY LEASES.

THE QUESTION OF RENEWALS. SAFEGUARDING THE TENANTS. About 40 owners of various Whiteley leases met last night in the Moturoa Hall, to discuss conditions under which the Whiteley trustees proposed to renew their leases. Mr. W. H. Thompson presided. The convenor (Mr. B. Coppen) said the meeting was cqlled so that the position could be considered jointly, and also to appoint a valuer. He believed the trustees were sending out notiedfe, but so far they had not come to hand. Mr. Thompson said it would be necessary to apply for a renewal of their leases not later than the end of next month, and it would materially assist negotiations if all lessees were of one mind. They could either appoint a valuer for all concerned, to act in conjunction with the Whiteley trustees’ valuer, or they could each provide an independent valuer. Mr. J. Pickering proposed, and Mr. S. J. Jackson seconded, that only one valuer be appointed, and that Mr. F. Orbell be chosen, for the position. This was carried. The chairman mentioned that there were two valuations, one on the unimproved value and the other on substantial improvements, the latter being in the interests of occupiers. Mr. Pickering explained that the new valuations would not come into force till 12 months after assessment. Mr. Gavey said he had interviewed the secretary for the trustees (Mr. R. Pepperell), who had stated that it would not be necessary to make application; but others disagreed. Mr. J. S. Jackson said that if a man sold or sublet his section,, the trustees had the power to withhold their consent to the transfer, and could, if they so desired, insert additional clauses. This was the main objection. It was then decided, on the motion of Mr. Jackson, that if the notices, when received, contained any differences, another meeting be called, so as to consider the matter then, and, if advisable, seek legal assistance. Mr. P. Rail drew attention to the fact that the trustees were claiming the right to all mineral resources on the land. This, he contended, should reduce (heir rent by about half, as there appeared to be nothing to prevent the erection of an oil derrick at the back-doors.

A Voice: “Or shift your house to dig a well!” Mr. G. E. Blanchard then moved that a committee be formed to confer with the trustees with a view to getting the conditions relative to the consent of sub-leases’ and transfers deleted, and that the co/nmittee be empowered to consult a solicitor if it be found necessary. This was carried, and the committee decided upon was Messrs. W. H. Thompson, J. S. Jackson, B. Coppen, A. Lawrence, and G. S. Blanchard. The committee is to meet the trustees, if possible, on Saturday afternoon next, and report to a further meeting on Monday night. It was decided that the valuer (Mr. Orbell) be invited to attend.