THE MOUNT FEEL ROAD BOARD.

Temuka Leader, Issue 1639, 27 September 1887, Page 2

THE MOUNT FEEL ROAD BOARD.

TO THE EDITOB. Sm ( —~l regret that Mr Tripp has thought it necessary to appeal to the ratepayers of the district against the acdon of the majority of the members of the Mount Peel Road Board at the meeting held on the 16th of September, As he has, however, thought fit to do so, I feel called upon as Chairman state the reasons why the majority of the Board passed the resolution of which Mr Tripp complains. When the question was first brought before the Board Mr Dennistoun said that be should propose —“ That considering the great importance of the water-race to a large number of ratepayera (and others) leave should be granted to the Geraldine County Council to cut down the trees on the line of the proposed race.” After some discussion Mr Tripp formally moved the resolution as published in your paper of Tuesday, Sept. 20tb, charging the Council dSI for the trees cut in the line. Mr Dennistoun then moved his amendment —not giving away (he trees, but only allowing them to be cut, th * felled trees remaining the property of the Board, It was agreed by the majority ; Ist, that if th? amendment was, as Mr Tripp, said wrong, it would he equally wrong to accept a nominal sura, the damage must be fully valued ; 2nd, that the benefit from the water to the trees on each side would probably far more than compensate for the tew young trees cut down ; 3rd, that these reserves were not bought by, but given to, the district ; 4th, that the water-race is such a great benefit to the entire farming interest it slioull be helped forward in every possible way. The amendment was not carried by my vote as Chairman, I voted as an ordinary member, Ido not think tbit I have ever given my casting vote as Chairman during the long period I have had the honor ot holding that office. I have only to add that if the ratepayers are of opinion that I have betrayed their interests or the trust reposed in me I shall be ready to at once resign my seat on the| Board. Apologising for the length ot this letter, I remain, etc., J. Babton A, AcM-ND. IJolnicnte, Sept. 21st, 1887.