Hemingray granted privilege of laying gas mains

MEETING OF CITY COUNCIL.

A Busy Session of the City Fathers,

Last Night.

The most important feature of the council meeting last evening was the decision of the judiciary committee relative to the rates for gas being charged consumers by the Heat, Light and Power company. The committee reported that it had found the rates to be in excess of those stipulated in the franchise and the city attorney was au­thorized to take such action as may be necessary to prevent the company from enforcing its contracts with con­sumers.

General Manager C. M. Ward, of the C. and S. E. railroad, was present at the meeting. He presented a petition which was read by Mr. Gray, asking that the company be granted permis­sion to cross the streets from Ohmer avenue north along the Ft. W., C. & L. tracks to Liberty street, where the company intends to locate its passenger station. City Engineer Wood stated that if the permission is granted the grade of Sixth, Eighth and Ninth streets will have to be changed. It will be taken up at next meeting.

A petition signed by several citizens residing near the Hamilton stone quarry, asked that the operator cease making blasts at the quarry and also be compelled to remove quantities of dynamite stored within the city limits. It is said that blasting has caused stone walls and cisterns to crack. The city attorney and police superintendent were instructed to investigate.

The question of placing flagmen or gates at the railroad crossings was again launched by Messrs. Berger and Hanika. Mr. Hanika said that he was almost caught at the Jefferson street crossing a few days ago by a string of freight cars. Another week's time was granted the committee on railroads in which to complete the investigation. The Driscolls were recently killed at the Grant street crossing.

Ohmer avenue is being improved by Levi Jones and some of the residents who are not satisfied with the work filed a petition. They allege that the broken stone used is not heavy enough and that the contractor is not fulfilling the contract. Thomas Richey, whose name was on the petition, appeared and stated that the work is satisfactory.

He stated that his name was used without his consent. City Engineer Wood also reported favorably to Mr. Jones. The petition was referred to the street and alley committee.

A report of the waterworks improvements was read by Mr. Youse. It stated that seventy-five men are at work on the improvements and that the new pump is being placed in position.

The privilege of laying gas mains south from Water street in the eastern part of the city was granted the Hemingray Glass company. Miss Kate Kaly was allowed the privilege of using the street while erecting a building.

City Health Officer Ried reported 52 births during the past month; 29 males and 23 females. There were 31 deaths; 18 males and 13 females.

The quarterly report of the police department was read. The expenses for July, August and September were $3,701.27. The amount received in rewards was $17.38.

The usual bills were allowed. Bids on street work were opened.