Sessional_Paper_1890 — Page 419

Surveyor General to Colonial Secretary.

· HON. COLONIAL SECRETARY,

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2. Of the various works included in the Return, the Colony is, I believe, committed to all except the following:---

Item 9. Gaol Extension. I have not sufficient information to enable me

to say to what extent the Colony is committed to this item. Item 13. Public Laundries. The same remark applies to this item as to

the foregoing.

Item 17. Additions and Alterations to the Civil Hospital $7,131. These

improvements although no doubt necessary are not yet sanctioned. Item 25. Re-construction of Governor's Peak Residence $40,000. The sum of $40,000 is included in the Estimates of 1890 on account of this work, but no decision has yet been arrived at with regard to site.

Item 26. Quarters and Offices for Superintendent of Botanical and Afforestation Department. The sum of $12,000 has been included in the Estimates of 1889 and 1890. This amount is manifestly insufficient, although I have included $22,500 in the Estimates for next year, I have subsequently gone into the matter with a view of reducing the cost and as explained in my letter of 15th instant (C.S.O. 1763) I hope to carry out the work for a sum considerably within that above named. A new house is indispensable, as the present residence and offices of this Department are in a very dilapidated condition.

Item 27. Magazine for Explosives and Pier at Stone Cutters' Island. My proposals are still under the consideration of Government. Item 28. Shaukiwan Market Extension. The same remark applies to

this item.

Item 29. Government Offices Extension and New Law Courts. The item has been included in the Estimates for 1891, as these buildings are under contemplation, but the matter is not sufficiently advanced to permit me to submit definite proposals and estimates. The want of improved accommodation is a pressing one and has long been recognised. In my opinion this important item should not be lost sight of when the Public Works of the future are under consideration.

I have distinguished by the red* letters A. B. C. the relative order of impor- tance which, to the best of my information and judgment, attaches to the items included in the Return.

A marks works of primary importance.

B

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,, secondary

C indicates less important works.

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18.8.90.

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* Italics in print.

S. BROWN, Surveyor General.

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