BATH PROPOSALS

Wairarapa Times-Age, 21 February 1940, Page 6

BATH PROPOSALS

APPLICATION TO RAISE LOAN TEPID OR COLD WATER. BOROUGH COUNCIL'S ACTION. A formal resolution to apply to the Local Government Loans Board for sanction to raise a loan for alternative proposals for tepid or open air cold water swimming baths, estimated to cost £18,700 and £13.400 respectively, was passed at a meeting of the Masterton Borough Council last night. One ratepayer wrote objecting to any further increase in rates, considering that.they were too high already. An amendment was moved by Councillor G. W. Morice that further consideration of the proposals be deferred until a conference had been held between the Masterton Swimming Club and the Works Committee of the Council. The amendment was seconded by Councillor H. E. Gardner, but was lost on voices. Stating that he considered a better water supply was essential, and should come first, Councillor Trevor Beetham, said the time was' not opportune to proceed with the baths proposal. He pointed out that there was a strong belief among the public that the baths and the water scheme proposals were linked together, which was wrong. In his opinion, he said the' two polls should not be taken at the same time. “I consider that a further meeting should be held with the Masterton Swimming Club, as the general opinion of. councillors around this table is that the baths proposals will be defeated," stated Councillor Morice in moving his amendment. He added that although he understood the great benefits to swimming the baths would be. he would prefer that the proposals were not put to the ratepayers at present, if they were going to be defeated. In his opinion it would not be keeping faith with the swimming club. He considered that in ordinary circumstances the baths would be well within the province of the borough, but under present conditions the water scheme should be gone on with alone. As the promise to the Swimming Club had been made before the declaration of war he though that the club would willingly release the council from its obligation. “Any move in that direction should come from the Swimming Club,” stated Councillor G. D. Wilson. He considered that the proposals should go forward in the normal course of events. “Circumstances have changed. We made on rpromise before war broke out,” commented Councillor Morice. The motion to apply for authority to raise a loan was proposed by the Mayor, Mr T. Jordan, and seconded by Councillor W, White.