54 REPORT OF THE COMMISSIONERS OF 



O^fer Franchise and Lease (Jccoant 



Chapter 584, Laws of 1887, provides for granting of franchises for oyster cultiva- 

 tion of certain lands under water, and directs the moneys received therefor to be paid 

 into the State treasury; and Chapter 321, Laws of 1893, as amended by Chapter 974, 

 Laws of 1895, provides for leasing lands for same purpose. 



It was expected that the State would receive a considerable income from this source, 

 but prices realized for the franchises and privileges were less than expected from the 

 beginning, and have fallen off of late years. Apparently no complete and systematic 

 accounts were kept, and no detailed reports have been made which give us the infor- 

 mation desired upon the subject. The books and records relating to this matter 

 received by us show considerable sums of money yet due from various parties, and that 

 quite a large amount had been collected fcr these privileges for the last two or three 

 years, which had not been paid to the State Treasurer. We cannot, at this time, give 

 the correct figures of the aggregate amount due and uncollected on this fund ; but are 

 having the books examined and written up with a view to collecting the money due 

 for franchises and rentals, and of making a complete and correct statement thereof. 



We have received as advances for leases applied for, $14.25. This amount will be 

 deposited with the Treasurer, and an itemized statement, showing from whom the 

 money was received or upon the rental of what particular leases it is to be applied, 

 will be made and filed with the Comptroller as soon as the leases are executed. 



