ASSESSMENT COURT.

Manawatu Herald, Volume III, Issue 55, 11 March 1881, Page 2

ASSESSMENT COURT.

(Before 11. Ward, Esq., Judge.) OTAKI HIGHWAYS BOARD DISTRICT. Mr. J. A. Kuocks, clerk to the Otaki Highways Board, stated that he had beeu appointed as valuator, aud had made the necessary declaration, and the valuation had been mado by the required date. Mr Knocks stated ho had not sent notices to those living iv tho immediate district, under the advice of the Chairman, who consilered it wa_ not required by the Acfc. Tne notices had beeu senfc to those living away. The Judge said that was unfortunate. Having read the clause of the Acfc referring to the matter, the Judge said he had no option in the tn*tte., but to hold that the requirements of the Act had not been complied with, and the valuation list would have to be thrown out. The whole spirit and reading of the Act showed that it was a mo3t important point th.t every ratepayer should b. served with a notice, and as this had not been done, he had no other duty than to see that the Acfc was carried out. Tne Manawatu Highways Board had fallen into a similar mistake lasfc year, on the score of expense. Mr Knecks— That was the reason in this case — to save expense. The Judge— Well, I am sorry to^ say it will greatly add to the expense. The list is thrown oufc. Mr Ward then gave the Valuator in- j structions for tha making of another list as speedily as possible. j Tne Court waa then adjourned until the l 1 3th April, at 10 a.m. I