COUNTY ROAD WORKS.

Wairarapa Age, Volume XXXII, Issue 10210, 12 April 1911, Page 5

COUNTY ROAD WORKS.

PROPOSED PURCHASE OF TEAMS.

THE RESOLUTION NEGATIVED

Councillor 1). AV. Foreman moved at the meeting of the Masterton County Council yesterday, in accordance with notice given, "That it be an instruction to the County Engineer, in preparing the road maintenance estimates for the year 1911-12, to make provision for the purchase of two double teams and drays for general use in the County." In moving the resolution, Cr Foreman stated that the Council had a big plant lying idle, and there were numerous works which might be undertaken by the Council at less cost than at present.

The chairman (Cr Welch) seconded the motion, pro forma.

, Cr Murray said he did not think that two drays would be sufficient for the whole County. In the outlyj ing districts, at least three horses would be required. He was oi opinion, that each Riding should have its own teams.

j The Engineer stated that It would ! be quite feasible to adjust the accounts for the use of the teams as between the Ridings. He was of opinion that- small works could be undertaken by County teams to advantage. Moreover, they wouldi enable the Council to use its grader. He would not advise a scheme on a large scale, but thought that one or two teams might 'be well utilised. In other Counties they were compelled to acquire their own teams, but in the Master ton County they were more fortunate in having competition among contractors. Ur Foreman stated that in the i Wairarapa.South the teams were sent out to the roadmen when they were not otherwise engaged. His idea was to have the teams available for small reoair work.

Cr Toogood said he had an idea that they should acquire, teams for the backblocks, but he did' not think they were necessary for the centre of the County. He was of opinion that each Riding should have its own teams. In Bawke's Bay they had a specially-constructed vehicle for the conveyance of metal. The chairman said he did not see where the Council would gain very much, after paying for upkeep, shoeing and repairs. There was also the very great difficulty of procuring suitable labour.

Cr Foreman pointed to a case in the district where a Avork could have been carried out by the Council's team for £2O, which was now costing £65.

Cr Cameron thought the matter one for the individual Ridings to take

up. The resolution was lost on the voices.