THE CHAIRMAN OF THE COUNTY COUNCIL.

West Coast Times, Issue 666, 12 November 1867, Page 3

THE CHAIRMAN OF THE COUNTY COUNCIL.

» TO THE EDITOB OF THE WEST COAST TISDCS. Sir — The rumour which has gained currency, and which is diffused through the papers, that Mr Sale is the destined chairman of the Westland County Council, seems to make an unfavorable impression on the public, and I must say not without reason. To me it appears that this rumour has been spread for the purpose of ascertaining the feeling of tho public on that subject, no doubt with a view, should a feeble opposition be shown, to appoint that gentleman to that post as the delegated chairman. And for reasons, I agree with an expression of opposition which emanates from all quarters of Westlaud, against the reins tallation of a man to power, who failed in many ways to give satisfaction during a former period. In my opinion the appointment of a Chairman is premature, for I understood that the hon. John Hall was personally to initiate the new administrative system in Westland. I should be sorry if MiHall was to relieve himself from that task through a substitute, who did not possess the entire confidence of the people from the outset. A more constitutional, or more preferable way of filling that important post, and one certainly more satisfactory to the people of Westland, would be, that the hon. John HaU, who professes so great an interest in the success of the future administration in Westland. should superintend the Council for the space of two or three months at least in person, and during that time observe closely its members, who have been the choice of the people, with the view of selecting the one most fit to recommend as the Chairman of the County Council, and recommending the same to his Excellency the Governor for the appointment. The vacancy thus occurring can soon be filled up by electing a successor to nil the vacant seat. This, in other respects ought to be the basis of fairly dealing with self-government. If the Chairman is to be simply a Government nominee, he may and he may 'not agree with the decisions of the Council, possessing the power to mar and refute the same, and be not responsible to or connected with the people. No Councillor, at any tune— however great and superior his ability of administration— would attain the Chairmanship of that body. r lhe Council would be a distinct body, with no P power to enforce, unless indeed by appealing to the people and resorting to petitioning—a very objectionable recourse at all times. The old system is to be swept away, and with it its .pillars and ornaments must disappear. That they shouid be used as supports for the new structure is not at dT desired. It was they themselves who brought on the disruption, and my advice is to steer clear of Goldfields Secretary Under-Secretary, and the whole host con' nected with the present administration. I am, sir, &c. Boss, Nov. 9, 1867. *«„,