The Water Supply of the City
The most important discussion at the meeting of the City Council last night was about the best means to increase the city’s water supply. The subject was introduced through a clause in the Public Works Committee’s report, stating that the City Surveyor had been instructed to ask Mr Saunders to name a price for constructing a flume at Wainui and maintaining it until the completion of his contract. In relation to this, a letter from Mr Saunders was read, in which he responded to Mr Loughrey’s request, stating that while he had no objection to the construction of a flume, he would not undertake the work himself. He added that a flume should not cost more than £100.
The Mayor explained that he had discussed the matter with Councillors S. Brown, Danks, and other practical men, and had determined that water for the city’s lower levels could be sourced by placing a centrifugal pump in the stream near Petone. For the higher levels, the Polhill Gully reservoir could be used.
Councillor McKenzie supported constructing a flume, emphasising the urgency of the matter, as the current water shortage was causing significant issues, including employers having to discharge workers due to a lack of motive power. He argued that while a centrifugal pump might be cheaper, it might not function as effectively as a flume. He considered £100 a reasonable expense and believed the flume would not hinder Mr Saunders’ contract. He moved the motion: “That a 2ft flume be constructed and the water brought in at once.” McKenzie also opposed using water from Petone, citing its lower purity, mentioning that he had observed ducks and geese in the stream where the pump was proposed.
In response to a question from Councillor Petherick, the Mayor said he did not know how high above the pipes the pump was to be placed. Councillor Danks clarified it would be at the level of the pipes. Councillor Thompson expressed interest in seconding McKenzie’s motion but hesitated due to the City Solicitor’s opinion regarding liability in the event of floods. Thompson suggested amending the resolution to appoint a committee to discuss arrangements with Mr Saunders. Councillor McKenzie agreed, and the motion was altered to read: “That a two-feet flume be brought in, and that a committee, consisting of Councillors Danks, Thompson, Maginnity, A. W. Brown, and the mover, accompanied by the City Surveyor, be appointed to wait upon Mr Saunders.” Councillor Thompson seconded this motion.
The Mayor moved an amendment: “That the engineer be instructed to place a centrifugal pump in the stream at Petone.” He supported this alternative to avoid potential legal complications with the contractor. Councillor Danks seconded the amendment. Councillor Newman opposed the pump scheme, arguing it would not supply water to the higher levels. Councillor A. W. Brown echoed similar concerns.
After further discussion, the motion and amendment were put to a vote, and the latter was defeated. Another amendment by Councillor Wilson, suggesting the engineer ask Mr Saunders to quote a price for supplying water to Wellington until the completion of his contract, was not seconded.
Tags: Newspaper Waterworks
