MINUTES
OF THE
CITY COUNCIL
OF THE
CITY OF HALIFAX
FOR THE CIVIC YEAR
1917-18
HALIFAX, N.S.
OFFICE OF CITY CLERK
EXPLOSION, DECEMBER 6th, 1917.
MORNING MEETING
City Collector’s Office,
City Hall, Halifax, N.S.,
December 6th, 1917.
As a result of a collision of Richmond this morning between the Belgian Relief Ship
“Imo,” and the French Tramp Ship “Mont Blanc,” the latter loaded with a large quantity
of high explosives, an explosion occurred which totally wrecked all the district bounded
on the South by a line drawn through the Admiralty House Property, on the West by
Gottingen Street, and on the North and East by the waters of the harbour, and similarly
destroyed all buildings in the North End of Dartmouth. It all so extensively damaged all
buildings in other parts of Halifax and Dartmouth and nearby districts in the municipality
of Halifax County.
Following the explosion in Halifax the buildings at once took fire, which fires are raging
at this time, and it is reported that there are a large number of people killed and many
injured persons in the ruins.
----
The following members of the City Council who were in the City Hall at the time
assembled at the above place at 11.30 o’clock, a.m., it being the only room in the
building not so badly wrecked by the Explosion as to be unfit for the purpose:Deputy Mayor H.S. Colwell, Controller John Murphy, Controller George A. Taylor,
Alderman Robert B. Colwell, Alderman Frank A. Gillis, Alderman John E. Furness.
The Deputy Mayor stated that in the absence from the City of His Worship the Mayor he
had instructed the City Clerk to summon an Emergency Meeting of the City Council for
three o’clock this afternoon, it being absolutely impossible to notify the member of
council earlier owing to existing conditions, but that he felt the present attendance of so
many members of Council afforded an opportunity for the immediate, though of course
informal, consideration of the situation and any steps which should be take at once.
He further stated that he realized it was necessary that an Executive Committee and
various Sub-Committees should be organized forthwith to carry on the work of the rescue
and relief, and that, therefore, he proposed that this meeting should be turned into a joint
meeting of those Members of the City Council who are in attendance and of such citizens
as are present – being all he could speedily convene.
The following citizens among others were present:His Honor Lieutenant-Governor MacCallum Grant, Mr. Justice Harris, Mr. G.S.
Campbell, Mr. A.E. Jones, Mr. J. Norwood Duffus, Mr. W.A. Black, Mr. J.L.
Hetherington, Mr. R.H. Metzler, Mr. Geo. Henderson, Mr. I.C. Stewart, Mr. R.T.
MacIlreith, K.C., Mr. A.S. Mahon.
The Deputy Mayor thereupon moved that the meeting be constituted as a joint meeting of
the Members of the City Council and citizens in attendance, and that His Honor the
Lieutenant-Governor be appointed Chairman of the Meeting.
This motion being seconded by Controller Taylor was carried unanimously.
On motion the Deputy Mayor was appointed Secretary of the Meeting.
LIST OF HEADLINES
Military Assistance
Medical Assistance
Fire Apparatus
Committees-Appointment of
MILITARY ASSISTANCE.
The Deputy Mayor reported that assisted by the City Clerk and Chief of Police he had
shortly after the Explosion waited on the Military Authorities with a request for men to
aid in the rescue of the injured and to assist in their removal to Hospital, to recover the
bodies of the dead, and to help in the work of extinguishing fires.
He further stated that he had also asked the Military Authorities for Mattresses, Blankets,
Tents. Etc., and that the Military Authorities readily acceded to all his requests and that
Col. W.E. Thompson, A.A.G. had issued immediate instructions to have the aid asked for
speedily supplied.
MEDICAL ASSISTANCE.
The Deputy Mayor further reported that he had caused messages to be sent to Towns of
the Province and elsewhere calling for Doctors and Nurses.
FIRE APPARATUS.
The Deputy Mayor further reported that he had sent out calls to nearby towns for fire
apparatus.
ORGANIZATION.
A short discussion then took place as to the matter of the organization of Committees,
after which it was unanimously decided that such Committees should be formed at once
under the name the Halifax Relief Committee, and the following where thereupon
appointed:COMMITTEES-APPOINTMENT OF.
Executive Committee.
Mr. R.T. MacIlreith.
Hon. R.G. Beazley.
Alderman R.B. Colwell.
Mr. J.L. Hetherington.
Controller Murphy.
Mr. W.S. Davidson.
His Worship the Mayor-ex officio.
Transportation Committee.
Alderman F.A. Gillis.
Controller Finlay.
Mr. J. Norwood Duffus.
Mr. W.A. Black
Food Committee.
Mr. J.L. Hetherington
Mr H.G. Bauld, M.P.P.
Mr. Clifford P. Wood.
Shelter Committee.
Controller Murphy.
Mr. W.S. Davidson.
Alderman J.E. Furness
Finance Committee.
Mr. Justice Harris.
Mr G.S. Campbell.
Mr. R.H. Metzler.
Mr. George Henderson.
Mortuary Committee.
Alderman R.B. Colwell.
Controller Taylor.
It was on motion resolved that Citizens should be invited to attend the Emergency
Meeting of the City Council called for three o’clock this afternoon.
Meeting adjourned for 12.15 p.m.
H.S.COLWELL,
Acting Secretary
MacCALLUM GRANT,
Lieutenant Governor,
Chairman.
EXPLOSION, DECEMBER 6TH, 1917
AFTERNOON MEETING
City Collector’s Office,
City Hall, December 6th, 1917.
An emergency meeting of the City Council was called for three o’clock this afternoon.
At the above named hour there were present the following named Members of Council: Deputy Mayor Colwell, Controller Murphy, Controller Hines, Controller Taylor,
Alderman J.E. Furness, and Alderman F.A. Gillis.
There being no quorum of Council present the Deputy Mayor suggested that the
Members of Council and citizens present should resolve themselves into a joint meeting,
and on motion from the Deputy Mayor this course was unanimously decided upon.
The following named citizens amongst others were present:His Honor Lieutenant-Governor, Hon. G.E. Faulkner, Mr. Justice Harris, Hon. R.G.
Beazley, Mr. G.S. Campbell, Mr. R.T. MacIlreith, K.C., Mr. J. Norwood Duffus, Mr.
A.S. Mahon, Mr W.A. Black, Mr. I.C. Stewart, Mr. W.S. Davidson, Mr. Ralph Isnor, Mr.
J.L. Hetherington, Mr. R.H. Metzler, Mr. Geo Henderson, Mr. H.C. Flood, Mr. Willis
Hebb, Mr. W.F. Mahon, Mr. W.I. MacDougall, Mr. A.T. O’Leary, Mr. W.R. Powell, Mr.
John McKeen, General Benson – Officer Commanding Military Forces, Halifax, a
Representative of the Naval authorities.
On motion Lieutenant-Governor Grant was appointed Chairman of the Meeting and Mr
I.C. Stewart Secretary of the Meeting.
The Deputy Mayor reported as to the proceedings of the meeting held this morning 11.30
o’clock, and also read the list of Committees as appointed at that meeting.
On motion duly moved and seconded the action taken at that meeting and the
appointment of Committees as made at that time was ratified and confirmed.
FINANCE – OPENING OF CREDIT
Mr. Justice Harris, Chairman of the Finance Committee reported that a credit had been
opened at the Bank of Nova Scotia and the Chairmen of the various Committees are
authorized to draw on that Fund to any reasonable amount in any cases where cash
should be immediately required.
The Chairmen of the various sub-committees present reported progress as to the work
entrusted to them.
The meeting adjourned at 4.15 to 11 o’clock tomorrow morning.
MacCALLUM GRANT,
Lieutenant Governor,
Chairman
I.C. STEWART,
Secretary of the Meeting
EXPLOSION, DECEMBER 6TH, 9117
MORNING MEETING
Council Chamber, City Hall,
Halifax, N.S., December 7th, 1917.
A joint meeting of the City Council and the Citizens was held this forenoon at 11 o’clock
at the above place, the Council Chamber being filled to over-flowing.
Deputy mayor Colwell called the meeting to order and thereupon moved that His Honor
Lieutenant-Governor MacCallum Grant be appointed Chairman. This motion being duly
seconded, was unanimously carried.
Mr Deputy-Mayor Colwell acted as Secretary of the Meeting.
The Chairman read letters of sympathy and offers of assistance from the following
places:- Regina, British Columbia, Washington D.C., Vancouver, Boston, Quebec,
Saskatoon, Hamilton, St. John, and practically every town in Nova Scotia.
LIST OF HEADLINES
Accommodation – Refugees.
Medical assistance – Doctors and Nurses.
Sympathy.
Committees – Appointment of.
Finance.
Accommodation – Warehouse Western Union Cable Co. Service.
Medical Assistance – St. John Ambulance Brigade.
School Board Assistance – Teachers.
Contributions – Moncton, N.B.
Reconstruction – Repairs.
Transportation – Special Train.
Distribution of Relief – Food.
Registration.
Accommodation – Knights of Columbus Hall, Shelter.
Contributions.
Transportation – Automobiles.
Election to be avoided.
ACCOMODATION – REFUGEES
The chairman also read an offer from the Town of Bridgewater to provide homes for
from twenty-five to one hundred people, and stating that Doctors and Nurses were being
sent to Halifax.
MEDICAL ASSISTANCE – DOCTORS AND NURSES
His Honor further stated that several Towns in the Province had already sent Doctors and
Nurses, who were now engaged in hospital work.
SYMPATHY
His Honor then read a telegram of sympathy from His Excellency the Governor General,
together with a request for full particulars.
COMMITTEES – APPOINTMENT OF
The following committees, which were appointed at yesterday morning’s meeting and
confirmed at the afternoon meeting were read, and their appointment approved and again
confirmed:Executive Committee.
Mr. R.T. MacIlreith.
Hon. R.G. Beazley.
Alderman R.B. Colwell.
Mr. J.L. Hetherington.
Controller Murphy.
Mr. W.S. Davidson.
His Worship the Mayor-ex officio.
Transportation Committee.
Alderman F.A. Gillis.
Controller Finlay.
Mr. J. Norwood Duffus.
Mr. W.A. Black
Food Committee.
Mr. J.L. Hetherington
Mr H.G. Bauld, M.P.P.
Mr. Clifford P. Wood.
Shelter Committee.
Controller Murphy.
Mr. W.S. Davidson.
Alderman J.E. Furness
Finance Committee.
Mr. Justice Harris.
Mr G.S. Campbell.
Mr. R.H. Metzler.
Mr. George Henderson.
Mortuary Committee.
Alderman R.B. Colwell.
Controller Taylor.
It was on motion resolved that the Committees above named should have power to add to
their numbers.
The following additional Committee was appointed to be known as a clothing
Committee:
W. Stetson Rogers.
Mrs. Wm. Davis.
Councillor E. Gaboury
Mr. W.J. Clayton
Mr. J.W. Power
FINANCE
Mr. Justice Harris, Chairman of the Finance Committee, reported that the Bank of Nova
Scotia will provide all money needed at present and that later a fund will be opened to
which all contributions will be credited.
ACCOMMODATION – WAREHOUSE WESTERN UNION CABLE SERVICE
Accommodation for shelters was offered by Capt. DeCarteret of the Western Union
Cable Service, namely, two large sore rooms on the cable wharf.
The offer of Capt. DeCarteret was accepted with thanks.
MEDICAL ASSISTANCE – ST. JOHN AMBULANCE BRIGADE
Mrs. McIntosh, Superintendent of the Halifax Branch of the St. John Ambulance Brigade,
announced that every V.A.D. in the City (150) are on duty in the Military Hospitals. She
stated their work is needed in the hospitals and it was decided to organize voluntary
women workers to visit from door to door to look after people.
It was suggested that as many firemen as could be spared and also as many men as could
be obtained should accompany the ladies on their duties to do any labor work, which the
ladies could not perform.
Controller Hines stated that the assistance of as many firemen as possible would be
given.
SCHOOL BOARD ASSISTANCE – TEACHERS
Mr John P. Quinn, Chairman of the Board of School Commissioners announced that a
Meeting of the Public School Teachers would be held this afternoon to organize for the
purpose of assisting in relief work.
CONTRIBUTIONS – MONCTON, N.B.
A citizen of Moncton advised that three car loads of supplies have already arrived from
Moncton.
RECONSTRUCTION – REPAIRS.
Dr, Forrest suggested that all citizens whose houses are habitable should not ask for the
services of carpenters, glaziers, etc., in order that such mechanics should be left free for
more necessary work.
TRANSPORTATION – SPECIAL TRAIN
Alderman Russell of Dartmouth suggested that a special train should be run from
Yarmouth and also one from Sydney to pick up all supplies along the line and rush the
same to Halifax.
DISTRIBUTION OF RELIEF – FOOD
“Chebucto Chapter” of the Daughters of the Empire offered to feed all persons who could
be accommodated at the Union Jack Club, provided the Food Committee supplied them
with the necessary food.
This offer was gratefully accepted.
Mrs. Deanis announced that the other Chapters of the Daughters of the Empire, the
Women’s Council and the Red Cross Society are available for the making of dressings,
distribution of clothing, and making of clothing and would gladly co-operate with Mrs.
McIntosh in the home relief work.
REGISTRATION
Mrs. Charles Archibald suggested that a Committee be formed of ladies to visit all
families, taking the names of all persons and registering them at the City Hall.
ACCOMMODATION – KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS HALL, SHELTER
The Knights of Columbus offered their rooms which would accommodate one hundred
and fifty persons as an emergency shelter.
CONTRIBUTIONS
It was reported that the ladies between Halifax and Kentville have already forwarded
quantities of Red Cross supplies.
TRANSPORTATION – AUTOMOBILES
It was decided that all automobiles in the City should be commandeered for the removal
of dead and injured.
ELECTION TO BE AVOIDED
The Chairman called attention to the necessity of sinking all political differences and
advisability of the Candidates nominated for the House of Commons from this
Constituency getting together for the purpose of avoiding an election at this time.
It was decided on motion of Mr. Minshull, seconded by Mr. Charles Archibald, that the
four Candidates should be requested to get together for the purpose of settling this
question.
The motion was passed unanimously.
The meeting adjourned.
H.S.COLWELL,
Acting Secretary
MacCALLUM GRANT,
Lieutenant Governor,
Chairman.
AFTERNOON SESSION
3 o’clock
City Auditor’s Office , City Hall,
December 12th, 1917.
An emergency meeting of the City Council was held this afternoon at 3 o’clock; at the
above named hour there were present His Honor the Mayor, Controllers Finlay, Hines,
Murphy, Taylor, and Aldermen H.S. Colwell, R.B. Colwell, McNab, Gillis, Furness,
Kelly, Hart, Day, Guildford, Godwin, Parker and Foley.
The meeting was called for the purpose of dealing with the matters arising as a result of
the catastrophe that occurred on the 6th inst.
PRESENTAION OF PAPERS
Reports (7) Board of Control are submitted, as follows:
Acquiring and Rebuilding Devastated area of City
Appointment of Chief Mortuary Officer
Cemetery Lots
Fire Department – Appointment of Chief and District Chief
Motor Fire Engine “Patricia”
Appointment of Guards for the City
Burial of the Dead
CONSIDERATION OF PAPERS SUBMITTED
By unanimous consent the order of business is suspended to permit the following
resolution to be read. :Whereas the terrible catastrophe which has overtake our City has resulted in an appalling
loss of life among our most useful and respected citizens and their families;
And Whereas many of our citizens whose lives have been mercifully spared, are now
mourning the loss of loved ones;
And Whereas there are now many of our citizens, men, women, and children, maimed
and suffering in our midst;
Therefore Resolved that the City Council hereby expresses its profound sympathy with
the surviving members of the families so suddenly stricken and assures them that all
measures tending to mitigate their sufferings will have the whole-hearted support of the
civic corporation.
Moved by Controller Finlay, seconded by Controller Hines and passed unanimously.
The following resolution is submitted and ordered to be printed in all the daily
newspapers:Resolved that this Council takes this, the earliest opportunity for expressing its
profoundest thanks and deepest gratitude for the magnificent manner in which assistance
has been rendered to her in this time of her great calamity and trusts that the publication
of this resolution through the Press will be accepted as an acknowledgement of its
gratitude until such time as opportunity is afforded for more ample expression.
Moved by Controller Finlay, seconded by Alderman Gillis and passed
unanimously.
CHIEF MORTUARY OFFICER
Read report Board of Control re the appointment of a Chief Mortuary Officer for the City
of Halifax.
City Hall, December 11th, 1917
The City Council
Gentlemen:- The Board of Control beg to report that a meeting held on the 11th inst., the
Deputy Mayor reported that on the 7th inst. He appointed Mr. Arthur Barnstead, barrister,
of this City, to act as Chief Mortuary Officer for the City of Halifax, to supervise and
take charge of all dead bodies and effects of deceased, and to direct the disposal of the
same.
The Board recommend that this action be approved by the City Council.
H.S. COLWELL, Deputy Mayor
Moved by Controller Finlay, seconded by Controller Hines that the report be adopted.
Motion passed.
BURIAL OF THE DEAD
Read report Board of Control re agreement with Snow and Co., Ltd., the Nova Scotia
Undertaking Co. and Joseph Spencer for the burial of the dead.
City Hall, December 11th, 1917
The City Council
Gentlemen:- The Board of Control beg to report that a meeting held on the 11th inst., Mr
A.S. Barnstead, Chief Mortuary Officer for the City of Halifax, submitted the attached
agreement made with Snow and Co., Ltd., the Nova Scotia Undertaking Co. and Joseph
Spencer, with reference to the burial of bodies in the City for which the City is
responsible.
It is recommended that said agreement be approved by the City Council.
H.S. COLWELL, Acting Chairman Board of Control
City Hall, December 11th, 1917
Snow and Co., Ltd
Undertakers, Halifax.
Dear Sirs:- With reference to the disposal of bodies for which the City of Halifax is responsible,
the City will pay for the making of coffins and the conveyance to cemeteries at the following
rates:For coffin size 20 inch to 3 feet……..$15.00
For coffin size 3 feet to 5 feet……….$15.00
For coffin size 5 feet to 6 feet 3 in…..$15.00
With reference to the unidentified bodies, they will be allotted to you on the following basis:All unidentified bodies which were taken from your morgue to the Chebucto Mortuary will be
your charge.
All otherwise unidentified bodies for which the City is liable will be assigned to you and to the
other Undertaking Firms in proportion to respective ability to handle the business as determined
by the Chairman of the Mortuary Committee.
All otherwise identified bodies for which the City, through the Mortuary Committee agrees to be
liable for interment, if taken from your morgue and authority for interment at the City’s expense
granted, will be your charge. If in Chebucto Mortuary they will be assigned by Chairman
Mortuary Committee.
It must be clearly understood that all unidentified bodies must be immediately forwarded to
Chebucto Mortuary and there examined, identified if possible and assigned. No bodies not
positively identified should be taken to any undertakers morgue, but should be immediately
dispatched to Chebucto Mortuary, whether collected by Committee’s team or by undertaker’s
teams.
Yours truly,
ARTHUR S. BARNSTEAD,
Chairman Mortuary Committee
Witness to both signatures,
H.G. Mott
Snow and Co., Ltd.,
Per John R.S
Moved by Controller Finlay, seconded by Controller Hines that the report be approved.
Motion passed.
CEMETARY LOTS
Read report Board of Control re acquiring cemetery lots.
City Hall, December 11th, 1917
The City Council,
Gentlemen:- The Board of Control beg to report for the information of the City Council that A.S.
Barnstead, Chief Mortuary Officer for the City of Halifax, has made arrangements with the
Fairview Cemetery Co., Ltd., and D. Lynagh, representing the Roman Catholic Episcopal
Corporation for Mount Olivet University, that all unidentified bodies for which the City agrees to
become responsible may be buried in public lots in these cemeteries; the land will be given free
of charge. What land is required for family lots or single graves, a charge not exceeding 20c per
square foot shall be made.
H.S. COLWELL, Acting Chairman Board of Control
Moved by Controller Finlay, seconded by Controller Hines that the report be approved.
Motion passed.
GUARDS FOR THE CITY
Read report Board of Control re the appointment of guards for the City.
City Hall, December 11th, 1917
The City Council,
Gentlemen:- The Board of Control beg to report that at a meeting held on the 11th inst., it was
agreed between the Military and Civic Authorities that the Military would guard the devastated
area of the City north of North Street, and the Civic police would guard the portion of the City
south of North Street.
H.S. COLWELL, Acting Chairman Board of Control
Filed.
FIRE DEPARTMENT – APPOINTMENT OF CHIEF AND DISTRICT CHIEF
Read report Board of Control re the appointment of Chief and District Chief for the Fire
Department.
City Hall, December 12th, 1917
The City Council,
Gentlemen:- At a meeting of the Board of Control held on 12th inst., Controller Hines reported
that Edward Condon, Chief for the Halifax Fire Department, and William Brunt, District Chief,
had both been killed while on duty during the recent disaster, and that it was necessary that these
two offices be filled immediately. He recommended to the Board the appointment of Captain
J.W. Churchill of No. 3 Division, to the position of Chief of the Fire Department, and of J.E.
Keefe, Captain of No. 7 Hose, to the position of District Chief of the Fire Department.
The applications for these positions and the recommendations of Controller Hines are attached
hereto.
The Board recommends that the recommendations of Controller Hines be approved by the City
Council.
H.S. COLWELL, Acting Chairman Board of Control
Moved by Controller Hines, seconded by Controller Finlay that said report be adopted.
Motion passed.
Moved in amendment by Alderman R.B. Colwell, seconded by Alderman Foley that the
report be referred back to the Board of Control for further consideration.
The amendment being put is lost, the vote being as follows:For the Amendment
Controllers
Finlay
Hines
Taylor
Murphy
Aldermen
H.S. Colwell
Gillis
Furness
Kelly
Hart
Day
Guildford
Godwin
Parker – 13
Against
Aldermen R.B. Colwell
Foley – 2
The original motion is put and passed.
MOTOR FIRE ENGINE “PATRICIA”
Read report Board of Control re motor fire engine “Patricia.”
City Hall, December 12th, 1917
The City Council,
Gentlemen:- The Board of Control beg to report for the information of the City Council that the
motor fire engine “Patricia” is now in the hands of an expert sent from the American LaFrance
Fire Engine Company, who reports that the engine will be in commission in about two days time.
H.S. COLWELL, Acting Chairman Board of Control
Filed.
ACQUIRING AND RE-BUILDING DEVASTATED AREA
Read reports Board of Control and Acting City Engineer re the acquiring and rebuilding
of the Devastated area.
City Hall, December 12th, 1917
The City Council,
Gentlemen:- The Board of Control submit for approval the accompanying report of the Acting
City Engineer re the acquiring and rebuilding of the devastated area.
H.S. COLWELL, Acting Chairman Board of Control
City Engineer’s Office, December 12th, 1917
His Worship the Mayor,
Sir:- I beg to suggest that there is at present an opportunity for re-planning an improvement of the
district devastated by the recent explosion and fire. The layout of this part of the City was entirely
haphazard, and capable of great improvement. The devastation has been so great that not only the
work of rebuilding, but even of ascertaining the original lots, will be very difficult.
Time is too brief to expand my ideas of this in detail, but I would suggest that you take into
immediate consideration the idea of the City acquiring the whole of the devastated district, and
replanning and rebuilding in accordance with modern ideas of town planning and construction.
H.W. Johnston, Acting City Engineer
Moved by Controller Hines, seconded by Controller Taylor that the same be adopted.
Motion passed.
RAILWAY TRANSPORTATION FOR PERSONS TO AND FROM THE CITY
Alderman Gillis addressed the Council, stating that the Railway Authorities have
requested the Transportation Department to obtain from the City a guarantee for the
issuing of transportation of refugees from the City and for those coming into the City for
the purpose of assisting in relief or construction work.
The matter is referred to the Board of Control with power to act.
Moved by Alderman Gillis, seconded by Alderman Foley that the Council do now
adjourn. Council adjourns 3.30 o’clock.
H.S. Rhind,
Assistant City Clerk
P.F. Martin
Mayor
Read report Board of Control informing the Council that they had requested Hon. George
H. Murray, Premier of Nova Scotia, to call a meeting of representatives of the Dominion
Government, the Provincial Government, the City Council, the Relief Committee and
such other bodies as he may deem fit, for the purpose of discussing the present situation,
including, if deemed wise, the matter of the appointment of a suitable authoritative body
to deal with the rehabilitation of the City.
City Hall, December 20th, 1917
The City Council,
Gentlemen:- The Board of Control beg to report for the information of the City Council and for
concurrence in their action that at a meeting of the Board of Control held on the 15 th instant they
communicated with the honourable Hon. George H. Murray, Premier of Nova Scotia, requesting
him to call a meeting of representatives of the Dominion Government, the Provincial
Government, the City Council, the Relief Committee and such other bodies as he may deem fit
for the purpose of discussing the matter of the appointment of a suitable authoritative body to deal
with the rehabilitation of the City. A letter from the President of the Board of Trade respecting
this subject is attached hereto.
Premier Murray has notified his Worship the Mayor that the desired conference will be held at the
Province Building tomorrow evening. December 21st at 8 o’clock.
L. FRED. MONAGHAN, Secretary Board of Control
Board of Trade, Halifax, N.S.,
13th December, 1917
His Worship the Mayor,
Dear Mr. Mayor:- at an emergency meeting of the Council of the Halifax Board of Trade, held
tonight, I was instructed to write to your Worship in the following terms:
Being all business men in Halifax and vitally interested in its present and future welfare, not only
as our own home, but also as the home of our children, we would respectfully impress upon Your
Worship’s notice the far reaching character of the recent disaster. Halifax is the capital City of
Nova Scotia, and a port of first importance to Canada and the Empire. It therefore appears to us
that your Worship should immediately propose a conference with the proper Provincial and
Dominion authorities with a view to the full discussion of the disaster, and the large questions
arising of it, which in the first place will bear most intimately on the social, economic and
industrial future of the City, and secondly, those considerations which will surround the wide
disbursement of the Relief Fund, in connection with restoration and reconstruction.
D. MACGILLIVRAY, President
Moved by Controller Murphy, seconded by Controller Finlay that the report be approved.
Motion passed.
V.G. HOSPITALS PATIENTS ACCOUNT
Read report Board of Control re V.G. Hospitals accounts for care of patients.
City Hall, November 20th, 1917
The City Council,
Gentlemen:- On October 1st, 1917, an Act of the Legislature of Nova Scotia, being Chapter 8 of
the Laws of 1917, entitled “An Act in Respect to the Victoria General Hospital,” came into effect.
Under this Act each Municipality in the Province is required to pay to the Hospital the some of
$1.00 per day for every resident for such municipality admitted into the Hospital for treatment.
During the month of October, of the total number admitted, 20 claimed to be residents of the City
were discharged or died, and for their care and maintenance the Hospital rendered the City
Accounts to the amount of $218.00. The City disclaimed reliability because of lack of residence
in 9 cases, the accounts for which totalled $104.00, leaving the balance for the month admitted to
be payable, $114.00.
Upon receiving the City’s letter disclaiming liability in the 9 cases specified, the Hospital
Authorities wrote as follows:Victoria General Hospital
November 14th, 1917
L Fred. Monaghan, Esq
City Clerk, Halifax
Dear Sir:- I beg to acknowledge receipt of your favour of the 12th inst. Enclosing a memorandum
of Hospital accounts for the month of October, showing the individual accounts in such statement
for the payment of which the City disclaims reliability. In this statement there is also indicated a
number of accounts accepted by the City aggregating $114.00 and I am writing to say that
without prejudice to either party the Hospital will accept payment of accounts for which the City
does admit liability.
W.W. KENNY, Superintendent
It is recommended that the account for October be paid for $114.00 on the terms of the Hospital’s
letter, and that the City Clerk be authorized and instructed on behalf of the City to continue in the
future the same course followed by him during the month of October.
L. FRED. MONAGHAN, Secretary Board of Control
Moved by Controller Murphy, seconded by Controller Hines that the same be adopted.
Motion passed.
CITY MARKET – KEEFE CONSTRUCTION CO. CONTRACT
Read report Board of Control recommending payment $1,000.00 to the M.E. Keefe
Construction Co., in settlement of contract for the construction of the Market Building.
City Hall, November 15th, 1917
The City Council,
Gentlemen:- The Board has under careful consideration the dispute with the M.E. Keefe
Construction Company respecting the contract for the Public Market, and has finally decided to
adjust the question on the following terms:First, That the City will take over the Market, with the floor as it is at present.
Second, the M.E. Keefe Construction Company agrees that the City retain the sum of One
Thousand Dollars, of the Two Thousand Dollars withheld, paying over to them the balance of
One Thousand Dollars which they will accept in full settlement of the contract as entered into.
During the discussion of same the M.E. Keefe Construction Company submitted to the
City an account for the sum of Two Thousand Dollars. This sum they claim is to compensate
them for damages incurred, due to delay on the City’s part in removing excavated rock. The
Board declined to entertain any such claim or to acknowledge any responsibility on the City’s
part, as the question raised is entirely between the City Engineer, Mr Doane and the Contractor.
According to the Contractor it was based on verbal discussions with the City Engineer, and would
therefore form no part of the contract or involve the City in same. The Contractor finally agreed
to allow the question of this claim to stand until Mr. Doane’s return, when he will take it up with
him.
The M.E. Keefe Construction Co., Ltd., per M.E. Keefe, on November 9th, 1917, signified in
writing their approval of this settlement.
The Board of Control therefore submit the agreement to the City Council for concurrence and
recommend that the sum One Thousand Dollars be paid them upon their giving the City the
following receipt:Halifax….1917.
$1,000.00
Received of the City of Halifax the sum of One Thousand Dollars ($1,000.00) in settlement of
contract for the construction of the Market Building in accordance with agreement of November
9th, 1917, a copy of which is hereto attached.
The original memorandum of agreement signed by M.E. Keefe is attached hereto.
L. FRED. MONAGHAN, City Clerk
Moved by Controller Murphy, seconded by Controller Hines that the report of the Board
of Control be adopted. Motion passed.
FIRE DEPARTMENT – PAY OF CALLMEN OVERSEAS
Read reports Board of Control and Controller Hines and Chief of the Fire Department re
pay of Fire Department callmen overseas.
City Hall, November 15th, 1917
The City Council,
Gentlemen:- The Board of Control submit for approval to the City Council the accompanying
joint report of Controller Hines and the Chief of the Fire Department re pay of Fire
Department callmen overseas.
L. FRED. MONAGHAN, Secretary Board of Control
Office of Chief Fire Department, November 14th, 1917
The Board of Control,
Gentlemen:- in reference to the recommendation of Controller Murphy in connection with the call
firemen now serving overseas, there are ten members of the Department who have gone across to
the front who we would consider to deserve to receive their call pay, more so than those of the
Department who are doing home duty and being paid their call pay quarterly. The ten men
overseas could receive the six months’ pay ending May first, for the amount of Eight Hundred
and seventy Dollars, some provision being paid for the men overseas to be paid until their return
home.
J.J. HINES, Controller
E. CONDON, Chief Fire Department
Moved by Controller Hines, seconded by Controller Murphy that the same be adopted.
Motion passed.
FIRE DEPARTMENT – DISPOSAL OF HORTON AERIAL LADDER
Read report Board of Control re the disposal of Horton aerial ladder by storing the same
in the City Yard, Bell Road.
City Hall, November 15th, 1917
The City Council,
Gentlemen:- The Board of Control beg to report that tenders were invited for the purchase of the
Horton aerial ladder but no satisfactory bids were received.
It is recommended that the ladder be knocked down and stored in the City Yard, Bell Road,
at the expense of the Fire Department.
Correspondence between the City and the Nova Scotia Board of Fire Underwriters is attached
hereto.
L. FRED. MONAGHAN, Secretary Board of Control
City Clerk’s Office, November 5th, 1917
E.J. Fahie, Esq
Secty. N.S. Board of Fire Underwriters
Sir:- The City of Halifax has invited tenders for the sale of the Horton (McDonald) Aerial fire
ladder and desire to know the attitude of the Board of Fire Underwriters in respect to fire
insurance rates in the event of the City disposing of the said ladder.
L. FRED. MONAGHAN, Secretary Board of Control
Nova Scotia Board of Fire Underwriters
Halifax, November 6th, 1917
L Fred. Monaghan, Esq
City Clerk,
City
Dear Sir:- Your favour of the 5th inst. Is at hand asking for the attitude of my Board in case the
City disposes of the Horton (McDonald) Aerial Fire Ladder.
I will place your letter before my Board at its meeting on Tuesday next and advise you in the
matter immediately after.
EDWARD J. FAHIE, Secretary
Nova Scotia Board of Fire Underwriters
Halifax, November 13th, 1917
L Fred. Monaghan, Esq
City Clerk,
Dear Sir:- Again referring to your favour of the 5th inst, wherein you asked for the attitude of my
Board in respect to fire insurance rates in the event of the City disposing of the Horton
(McDonald) Aerial Fire Truck, I have to advise you that at today’s meeting of my Board that I
was directed to reply that the disposing of this truck will not cause any change in the insurance
rates.
EDWARD J. FAHIE, Secretary
Moved by Controller Hines, seconded by Controller Taylor that the report be adopted.
Motion passed.
TOWN PLANNING
Read reports Board of Control and City Engineer recommending that the Canadian
Commission of Conservation be requested to permit their Town Planning Advisor, Mr.
Thomas Adams, to co-operate with the City Engineer in re-planning the part of the City
affected by the explosion of December 6th.
City Hall, November 20th, 1917
The City Council,
Gentlemen:- The Board of Control recommend for adoption the accompanying report of the
Acting City Engineer which recommends that the Commission of Conservation be requested to
permit their Town Planning Advisor, Mr. Thomas Adams, to co-operate with the City Engineer in
re-planning the part of the City affected by the disaster.
L. FRED. MONAGHAN, Secretary Board of Control
City Engineer’s Office, December 15th, 1917
His Worship the Mayor,
Sir:- Mr Adams, the Town Planning Advisor for the Commission of Conservation is in town, and
has informed me that the Chairman of the Commission has instructed him to place his services at
the disposal of the City should the latter require the same.
I consider that it is in the interest of the City to have the benefit of all the experience that can be
obtained, in our endeavour to improve it, and I would recommend that the offer of the
commission be accepted, and that Mr. Adams be asked to co-operate with your City Engineer in
replanning the part of the City affected by the late disaster.
H.W. JOHNSTON, Acting City Engineer
Moved by Controller Murphy, seconded by Controller Finlay that the reports be adopted.
Motion passed.
GRATUITIES TO FAMILIES OF FIREMEN
Read report Board of Control recommending that the City secure legislation authorizing
the City to pay the sum of $1,000.00 to the families of seven members of the Fire
Department who lost their lives in the explosion, December 6th, namely – Edward
Condon, Chief Fire Department, William Brunt, Assistant Chief; William Broderick,
Captain No.1 Engine; Michael Maltus, Hoseman on motor engine; Frank Killeen,
Hoseman on motor engine; William Hennessey, Hoseman No. 5 engine; John Duggan,
Hoseman No. 2 hose.
City Hall, December 20th, 1917
The City Council,
Gentlemen:-The Board of Control beg to recommend that the legislation be sought authorizing
the City to pay to the families of Edward Condon, Chief Fire Department, Wm Brunt, Assistant
Chief; William Broderick, Captain No.1 Engine; Michael Maltus, Hoseman on motor engine;
Frank Killeen, Hoseman on motor engine; William Hennessey, Hoseman No. 5 engine; John
Duggan, Hoseman No. 2 hose, who lost their lives in the explosion of December 6 th, the sum of
One Thousand Dollars ($1,000.00) each.
L. FRED. MONAGHAN, Secretary Board of Control
Moved by Controller Hines, seconded by Controller Finlay that the report be adopted.
Motion passed.
MEMORIAL SERVICE NEW YEAR’S DAY
Read report Board of Control covering letter from His Grace the Archbishop Worrell,
asking that Tuesday, January 1st., 1918, be proclaimed as a day of memorial for those
who perished in the recent catastrophe.
City Hall, December 20th, 1917
The Board of Control
Gentlemen:- The Board of Control beg to submit herewith with the recommendation that the
request be granted, a letter from His Grace the Archbishop Worrell asking that Tuesday, January
1st., 1918, New Year’s Day, be proclaimed as a day of memorial for those who perished in the
recent catastrophe.
L. FRED. MONAGHAN, Secretary Board of Control
Bishop’s Lodge, Halifax, December 18th, 1917
His Worship the Mayor of Halifax
Dear Sir:- I have been requested by the Executive of the Clergy Committee, which is a
representative body of all the churches except the Roman Catholic, to request you to appoint by
proclamation, Tuesday, January 1st., 1918, as a day of memorial for those who perished in the late
calamity and intercession for all those who have suffered.
As there is no single building which could be used for a general gathering of all, it is proposed
that each denomination should arrange for a service in some central place, but that all should be
held at the same hour.
Claire L, Nova Scotia
P.S. Allow me to add that I have just had an interview with his Grace the Archbishop of Halifax,
and he approves fully of the above proposal.
Claire L, Nova Scotia
Moved by Controller Murphy, seconded by Controller Taylor that the report be approved
and the request be granted. Motion passed.
CASH STATEMENT CITY TREASURER
Read report Board of Control covering cash statement city Treasurer month of
November.
Moved by Controller Finlay, seconded by Controller Taylor that the report be referred
back to the Board of Control for further consideration. Motion passed.
CEMENT CONTRACT
Read reports Board of Control and Acting City Engineer re contract for cement.
City Hall, November 20th, 1917
The City Council,
Gentlemen:-The Board of Control submit for adoption by the City Council the accompanying
report of the Acting City Engineer re contract for cement.
L. FRED. MONAGHAN, Secretary Board of Control
City Engineer’s Office, November 20th, 1917
His Worship the Mayor,
Sir:- In the Spring we let a contract for 1,750,000 pounds of cement in anticipation for our
requirements for the year’s work. After the contract was let, to very materially cut down the
sidewalk work, and a comparatively small amount of cement contracted for, was required.
The contractor has delivered to date about 925,000 pounds, of which quantity we have in stock
about 220,000 pounds. He writes me that it will be necessary, if we are to take the full amount
ordered, to decide on the same before Wednesday. The original contract was for total delivery
during the summer.
We have sufficient in stock to carry us until next Spring, and I do not think it advisable, owing to
the danger of deterioration in our stores, to store any more. The contractors are quite willing to
release us from the obligation of taking the full amount, and I would recommend that they be
notified that no more will be requested under their contract.
H.W. JOHNSTON, Acting City Engineer
Moved by Controller Murphy, seconded by Controller Hines that the same be adopted.
Motion passed.
SAFETY TO SHIPPING
Alderman Hart asked if better precautions are being taken in the matter of safety to
shipping coming in and out of the Harbour.
On motion of Controller Murphy, seconded by Controller Finlay, the subject is referred
to the Board of Control for consideration.
The following resolution is submitted:Whereas the City will require, in accordance with Section 31, Chapter 74, Acts 1914 and its
amendments, Three Thousand Dollars ($3,000) for Street Fund Account;
And Whereas the Trustees of the Sinking Funds have offered to lend the said amounts of Three
Thousand Dollars ($3,000) at 92.35% of par, same to be repayable in five equal annual
instalments, interest to be at the rate of 5% per annum;
Therefore be it Resolved that the City Treasure be and id hereby authorized to issue to the
Trustees of the Sinking Funds, short term debentures (5 years) to cover said loan, same to be
dated 1st day of January, 1918, and to bear interest at the rate of 5% per annum.
Moved by Controller Finlay, seconded by Controller Murphy and passed.
STREET RAILWAY SERVICE
Read report Board of Control covering letters (2) from the Nova Scotia Tramways and
Power Company, Limited, re unsatisfactory condition of street railway service.
City Hall, January 10th, 1918
The City Council,
Gentlemen:- The Board of Control beg to report that they complained to the Nova Scotia
Tramways and Power Company of the unsatisfactory service given by the Company from the
time of the explosion, and submit herewith for the information of the Council a letter from the
Company dated January 5th, addressed to Controller Hines, and a letter dated January 9th to the
City Clerk.
L. FRED. MONAGHAN, Secretary Board of Control
Halifax, N.S. January 5th 1918
Mr J.J. Hines, Controller,
Care of Longards Ltd., City
Dear Mr. Hines:- Regarding your telephone conversation to me last night of car which failed to
stop at the corner of Duke and Granville Street.
Owing to the fact that our cars were running very irregularly all day yesterday, due to the
condition of the Streets, I found that it was impossible to locate the number of the car which was
running ahead of car No. 74. We are taking very stringent action on all such cases and we are
glad at any time to have any criticism such as yours, that will enable us to get after the faults and
shortcomings of the men on the Road.
During the past four weeks our conditions have been extraordinary as have those of everybody
else in the City of Halifax. From one cause and another, since the 6th of December we have lost
forty men and have only been able to replace twenty of these, including the women which are on
the cars at present. I would also draw your attention the fact that we have been terribly held up
over our system by Motor Trucks, automobiles and teams using our tracks, and in fact the drivers
going away and leaving their vehicles standing on our tracks at all times of the day and night. We
have had several cases in which we have had delays of from 20 minutes to one-half hour from
these causes.
I would also draw your attention the conditions which existed on the streets of Halifax yesterday,
in which the street car tracks were the only parts of the streets on which there had been an attempt
made to have the snow cleared away and as a consequence of this the tracks carried all the traffic
both pedestrian and vehicular. Over and above carrying the traffic the track also formed the only
means by which the water could run away. This of course was due to the fact that the manholes
were not open and the water could not run off. There being so much water on our tracks
yesterday, 10 cars were taken out of service by being disabled by moisture penetrating through
the insulation and damaging the electrical equipment of the car.
Of course we appreciate that the City is very short of men at the present time and that they are
doing the very best they can under the circumstances, but you will readily appreciate that all these
items taken together form a very serious handicap to our operations.
I will be very glad if you will notify me of anything you see in the operation or handling of the
cars on the streets, which is not in the best interests of the Public, whom we are endeavouring to
serve and I give you my personal assurance that we are doing everything in our power to get back
to normal conditions.
NOVA SCOTIA TRAMWAYS AND POWER CO. LTD.
Per IRA P. MCNAB, Shop Supt.
Nova Scotia Tramways and Power Company Ltd.
Halifax, N.S., January 9th, 1918
L. Fred. Monaghan, Esq.,
City Clerk, Halifax, N.S.
Dear Sir:- I beg to acknowledge receipt of your communication of the 8th instant, being an extract
from the Board of Control meeting, held on January 2nd last, at which meeting Controller Hines
complained regarding cars not stopping to take up passengers at signal.
I regret to be obliged to inform you that we have experienced some difficulty in this direction,
and employees have been very negligent in obeying the instructions given to them in this regard.
We have endeavoured, in so far as possible, to discipline all those we have found guilty of this
infraction of the company’s regulations, and we believe that we will have better results in the
future.
I would respectfully point out to the Board of Control that we have had an extremely difficult
situation to cope with in connection with labor required for the operation of the cars, and while
we are fully aware that our service has not been up to the standard, I beg to assure your board that
we are taking every means in our power to improve matters in every way, and I have no hesitancy
in saying that, giving due consideration to the prevailing weather conditions and the labor
situation in the City, a marked improvement has been effected during the last week, a condition
we are quite hopeful of continuing until we are in a position to give a better service than ever
before attempted in this City.
H.R. MALLINSON, Managing Director
Filed
TELEPHONE SERVICE
Read report Board of Control re unsatisfactory service given by the Telephone Company,
covering letter from the Telephone Company.
City Hall, January 8th, 1918
The City Council,
Gentlemen:- The Board of Control beg to report that they complained to the Telephone Company
of the unsatisfactory service given by the Company since the recent disaster, and submit herewith
for the information of the Council the Company’s reply.
L. FRED. MONAGHAN, Secretary Board of Control
Maritime Telegraph and Telephone Co. Ltd.
Halifax, N.S., January 9th, 1918
L. Fred. Monaghan, Esq.,
City Clerk,
Halifax, Nova Scotia
Dear Sirs:- I have yours of January 8th respecting Controller Hines’ complaint as to telephone
service.
The telephone service since the explosion has been most unsatisfactory. This has been due to two
causes:
First – the traffic took a jump of approximately 82%. We had neither facilities nor staff to handle
such an abnormal load for a continuous period. Immediate steps were taken to provide additional
equipment and the manufacturer’s staff have been working day and night to get this installed, so
that we could handle this abnormal business. On the other hand our staff of operators was
seriously depleted by the explosion; two were killed and a large number were seriously injured,
and some were in hospital. So that we were in a position of attempting to do a business 82%
above normal with a staff 25% below normal.
We have been doing our best under these difficult conditions – working our staff double shift, and
long shift, but of course there is a limit to the physical capacities of any human being; I am glad
to say however, that there has been a decided improvement in the last two or three days. Many of
the operators are now coming back, and the traffic has shown a tendency to decrease to a little
nearer normal conditions. We are rushing eighteen new operators through our school as rapidly as
possible, and one or two are coming through every day. I anticipate that from the operating
standpoint we shall steadily improve, and I hope that in a few days we shall reach normal
conditions.
Second – the second cause of dissatisfaction is the large number of lines that have been out of
order, and are continually going out of order. Our aerial plant was damaged much more severely
than we at first thought. Our cable sheaths have been punctured and fractured by flying pieces of
metal, and by shock, and many causes of trouble are now turning up, due to the mild weather
permitting moisture to enter these punctures and fractures in the cable sheaths, so that many
people whose lines were working fairly satisfactorily are now finding that their lines are out of
order. We are overtaking this work just as fast as it is humanly possible.
You can rest assured that we feel, very deeply, the result to the community in the deterioration of
our services, and that no effort has been, is being, or will be spared to get back to normal
conditions at the earliest possible moment.
J.H. WINFIELD, General Manager
Filed.
EMERGENCY SHELTERS ON COMMON OR MILITARY PROPERTY
Read report Board of Control covering consent of the Military Authorities to the erection
of emergency shelters on the Halifax Common, the Citadel Glacis and Camp Hill.
City Hall, January 8th, 1918
The City Council,
Gentlemen:- The Board of Control beg to submit herewith the consent of the Military Authorities
to the erection of emergency shelters on the Halifax Common and about the Glacis of the Citadel
and Camp Hill.
L. FRED. MONAGHAN, Secretary Board of Control
Military and Defence, Headquarters Military District No.6
9th January, 1918
To His Worship the Mayor of Halifax,
Halifax, Nova Scotia
Sirs:- I have the honor by direction to inform you that the Department of Militia and Defence is
quite prepared to co-operate with yourself and your Honourable Council in consenting to the
erection of Emergency Shelters on the Halifax Common and about the Glacis of the Citadel and
Camp Hill to meet the necessity of housing citizens rendered homeless by the recent explosion.
W. E. THOMPSON, Colonel
A.A.G. Military District No.6
Filed
REPAIRS PUBLIC GARDENS FENCE
Read reports Board of Control recommending payments of accounts for repairs to the
Public Gardens fence.
City Hall, January 10th, 1918
The City Council,
Gentlemen:- The Board of Control recommend payment in full of accounts Hillis and Sons Ltd.,
$921.00 for repairs to the Public Gardens Fence.
A report from the Acting City Engineer is attached hereto.
L. FRED. MONAGHAN, Secretary Board of Control
City Engineer’s Office, January 10th, 1919
His Worship the Mayor,
Sir:- I beg to recommend payment to Hillis and Sons Ltd., of the sum of nine hundred and
twenty-one dollars ($921.00) being the amount in full on contract for repairing the fence at the
Public Gardens.
307 Panels @ $3………………$921.00
H. W. JOHNSTON, Acting City Engineer
Moved by Controller Finlay, seconded by Controller Taylor that the report be adopted
and the account paid. Motion passed.
VICTORIA GENERAL HOSPITAL ACCOUNTS FOR PATIENTS
Read report Board of Control recommending payment to the Victoria General Hospital of
account for care and treatment of patients.
City Hall, January 8th, 1918
The City Council,
Gentlemen:- The Board of Control beg to report that the Victoria General Hospital rendered the
City accounts amounting to $684.20 for the maintenance of patients during the month of
November and $1,051.30 for this month of December. The City disputed liability for charges
totalling $172.20 for the month of November, and $433.00 for the month of December.
It is recommended that the accounts, with these deductions made, be paid, the correct total for the
two months being $1,150.00.
L. FRED. MONAGHAN, Secretary Board of Control
Moved by Controller Finlay, seconded by Controller Taylor that the report be adopted
and the account paid. Motion passed.
COMMUTATION OF COMMON LOTS, MRS ISABELLA STAIRS
Read report Board of Control re commutation of part of common lot No. 20 for Mrs.
Isabella Stairs.
City Hall, January 2nd, 1918
The City Council,
Gentlemen:- The Board of Control recommend for adoption the accompanying report of the
Assistant City Clerk re commutation of part of Common Lot No. 20 for Mrs. Isabella Stairs.
L. FRED. MONAGHAN, Secretary Board of Control
Dennis Building, Halifax. N.S., October 5th, 1917
To the Secretary,
Board of Control,
City Hall, City
Dear Sir:- Acting on behalf of Mrs. Isabella B. Stairs we have been requested to write you re the
procuring of a deed from the City of the property recently purchased by Mrs. Stairs from Wensley
B. McCoy, K.C., and wife. This property was leased by the City to one Abram B. Kirk for nine
hundred and ninety-nine years, which lease was recorded in book 147, page 395. Mrs. Stairs is
anxious to get the title to this property, and we would ask your Board to kindly take the matter
into consideration, and instruct us what is necessary in order to procure the deed.
The property is as per description attached.
ROBERSTON AND MEAGHER
Per M
Office of the City Clerk, December 29th, 1917
His Worship the Mayor and
Board of Control
Gentlemen:- Messrs. Robertson & Meagher, solicitors for Mrs. Isabella Stairs, have paid into this
office with the attached letter, the sum of $122.75, being $48.36 back rental and $74.40 for
twenty years rental in advance, the amount needed for commutation for part of Common Lot No.
20. The City Engineer has prepared a plan of the sub-division of this lot and I would recommend
that the City Solicitor be instructed to prepare a deed and have the same executed for Mrs. Stairs.
H.S. RHIND, Asst. City Clerk
Moved by Controller Finlay, seconded by Controller Taylor that the report be adopted.
Motion passed.
HIRE OF STEAM FIRE ENGINE
Read report Board of Control recommending the hiring of a steam fire engine at $5.00
per day from the American LaFrance Fire Engine Company, covering the Company’s
offer.
City Hall, January 10th, 1918
The City Council,
Gentlemen:- The Board of Control beg to report that they deem it necessary in the interest of the
safety of the City to procure at once a fire engine in place of the motor engine “Patricia,” which is
out of commission. Fortunately, the American LaFrance Fire Engine Company are in a position to
hire an engine to the City, and have offered to do so for the sum of $5.00 a day plus freight
charges, and it is recommended that their offer be accepted, pending a decision respecting the
purchase of a new motor engine, and the repairing of the motor engine “Patricia.”
L. FRED. MONAGHAN, Secretary Board of Control
Halifax, Canada, January 10th, 1918
The Honourable Mayor and Board of Control,
Halifax, N.S.
Gentlemen:- We have in our factory in Toronto, a steam fire engine in first class order, ready for
immediate use which we would be pleased to rent to you on the following terms:1. The City of Halifax pay transportation charges both ways, and the cost of necessary
connections to adapt the engine to Halifax use.
2. The City of Halifax to pay the sum of $5.00 per day for the use of said engine for every day
that the engine is in the hands of the City of Halifax.
3. The City of Halifax to return us the engine in as good a condition as it leaves our hands,
necessary wear excepted. Any dispute respecting necessary wear to be determined by a
competent engineer to be agreed on by both parties. The engine can be shipped as soon as
necessary threads are cut, which should be about three days time.
AMERICAN LAFRANCE FIRE ENGINE COMPANY
Per G.E. THOMAS
Moved by Controller Hines, seconded by Controller Finlay that the report be adopted.
Motion passed. Alderman Godwin dissenting.
REPAIRS TO SCHOOL BUILDINGS
Read report Board of Control re financing the cost of effecting necessary repairs to
school buildings, amounting to $25,100.00.
City Hall, January 2nd, 1918
The City Council,
Gentlemen:- The Board of Control beg to report that the Board of School Commissioners applied
for authority to borrow money for the purpose of immediately effecting necessary repairs to the
following schools buildings:- The County Academy, the Tower Road, the Quinpool Road, the
LeMarchant Street, the St. Mary’s Boys’, the St. Mary’s Girls’, the Manual Training, the
Alexandra, the St. Patrick’s Boys’ and Africville Schools. The estimated cost of which would be
about $25,100.00.
The Board of Control gave the Board of School Commissioners such authorization as existing
circumstances warranted and recommended the adoption by the City Council of the following
resolution:Resolved that the City Council of the City of Halifax guarantee to the Bank of British North
America repayment in advance to the Halifax Board of School Commissioners not exceeding
$25,100.00. The same to be expended in effecting necessary repairs to school buildings injured
by the explosion of December 6th, 1917, and undertakes to use its best efforts to procure all
necessary legislation in respect to the same.
L. FRED. MONAGHAN, Secretary Board of Control
Board of School Commissioners
Halifax. N.S., December 31st, 1918
L. Fred. Monaghan, Esq.,
City Clerk
Dear Sir:- I am in receipt of you letter of December 28th, stating that the Board of Control had
guaranteed repayment of any advances made on the Bank of British North America for repairs to
schools, not exceeding $15,000 and to state that a copy of the same has been sent to the Bank of
British North America.
S.J. WILSON, Secretary
Board of School Commissioners, Halifax. N.S., December 31st, 1918
His Worship the Mayor
And Board of Control
Gentlemen:- I am directed by the Board of School Commissioners to state that the Alexandra, St.
Patrick’s Boys’ and Africville Schools could be put in temporary repair for $7,000, $3,000, and
$100 respectfully. These three schools being put in commission would house fifty-three classes a
day.
As the board is desirous as doing as much as possible for the children of the City, they request the
Board of Control to consider this further amount in connection with its overdraft.
S.J. WILSON, Secretary
Moved by Controller Finlay, seconded by Controller Hines that the report be adopted.
Moved in amendment by Alderman H.S. Colwell, seconded by Alderman Parker that the
report be referred back to the Board of Control for further consideration.
The amendment is put and passed.
NOVA SCOTIA CAR WORKS INDEBTEDNESS TO CITY
Read report Board of Control re final payment to the City of the balance of the
indebtedness of the Nova Scotia Car Works.
City Hall, December 24th, 1917
The City Council,
Gentlemen:- The Board of Control beg to report that on December 24th, 1917, J. Moorman
representing the Canadian Corporations Limited handed over to the City Treasurer a cheque for
$1,1788.10 in final settlement of the indebtedness of the Nova Scotia Car Works to the City and
applied for a release of the Mortgage held by the City and the property of the Car Works.
The City solicitor has been instructed to prepare the necessary documents.
L. FRED. MONAGHAN, Secretary Board of Control
Filed.
NORTH WEST ARM SEWER CHANGE IN LOCATION
Read report Board of Control covering report and plan of the acting City Engineer re
change in location of a portion of the North West Arm trunk sewer.
City Hall, December 24th, 1917
The City Council,
Gentlemen:- The Board of Control recommend for adoption by the City Council the
accompanying report of the acting City Engineer in location of a portion of the North West
Arm trunk sewer.
L. FRED. MONAGHAN, Secretary Board of Control
City Engineer’s Office, December 21st, 1917
His Worship the Mayor
Sir:- I am submitting herewith a plan showing a proposed change in the location of the North
West Arm Intercepting sewer through Point Pleasant Park. The new line will give a very much
better line than the original one proposed, as it cuts out two very sharp bends. The original lines
were laid down as being the most economical with the information we had at the time. The
contractors agree to build to the new line for the same price as the old, and I would recommend
that the change in location, as shown on the accompanying plan, be approved, provided the
contractor agrees to do the work at the same price as the original line.
H. W. JOHNSTON, Acting City Engineer
Moved by Controller Murphy, seconded by Controller Finlay that the same be adopted.
Motion passed.
HORTON AERIAL FIRE LADDER
Read report Board of Control and Acting City Engineer recommending the sale of the
Horton Aerial Fire Ladder for $250.00.
City Hall, December 24th, 1917
The City Council,
Gentlemen:- The Board of Control recommend the adoption of the attached report of the Acting
City Engineer recommending the sale of the Horton Aerial Fire Ladder and recommend that the
ladder be sold to the Reconstruction Committee for the sum of $250.00.
L. FRED. MONAGHAN, Secretary Board of Control
Halifax. N.S., December 21st, 1917
Mr H. Johnston,
City Engineer
Dear Sir:- The Superintendent, Mr. Archibald and myself while out at the City yards today,
noticed an old abandoned fire ladder-truck, with extension apparatus. It occurred to us that we
could use these ladders and some portions of the truck if it could be purchased for a reasonable
price by the Reconstruction Committee.
Will you kindly advise us the best price your Board will accept for it?
G.C. HURDMAN, For Manager Reconstruction Committee
Moved by Controller Finlay, seconded by Controller Taylor that the same be adopted.
Motion passed.
REMOVAL OF DEBRIS FROM RICHMOND DISTRICT – INCINERATOR LOT
Read report Board of Control recommending that the contractors for the removal of the
debris from the Richmond district be permitted to use the Incinerator Lot for the erection
of bunk-houses for their workmen.
City Hall, December 24th, 1917
The City Council,
Gentlemen:- The Board of Control beg to report that the Reconstruction Committee have let a
contract to Cavicchi & Pegano for clearing away the debris in the Richmond District and require
a piece of property upon which to erect bunk houses for their workmen.
The Acting City Engineer recommended the Incinerator Lot as a place suitable and
available.
It is recommended that the City Engineer be authorized to give the use of said property to
the contractors for the purpose named.
L. FRED. MONAGHAN, Secretary Board of Control
Moved by Controller Murphy, seconded by Controller Hines that the report be adopted.
Motion passed.
HALIFAX APPEAL FOR FULL REPARATION
Read report Board of Control covering copy of a letter forwarded by His Worship to the
Mayor of every incorporated City and Town in the Province of Nova Scotia, soliciting
the sympathy of their municipalities with Halifax in an appeal to the Dominion
Government to make full reparation for the material loss sustained through the explosion
of December 6th.
City Hall, January 5th, 1918
The City Council,
Gentlemen:- The Board of Control beg to submit herewith a copy of a letter forwarded by His
Worship the Mayor to the Mayor of every incorporated City and Town in the Province of Nova
Scotia soliciting [unknown word] make full reparation Halifax in an appeal to the Dominion
Government to sympathy with for the material loss sustained by the explosion December 6th.
It is recommended that this appeal be endorsed by the City Council and that this Board be
authorized to prepare and submit a suitable memorial to the Dominion Government requesting
full reparation.
L. FRED. MONAGHAN, Secretary Board of Control
Mayor’s Office, January 5th, 1918
His Worship the Mayor,
Town of
Dear Sir:- The tragedy which occurred in the City of Halifax on the 6th December, 1917, was the
result of conditions over which the Municipal Authorities had no supervision or jurisdiction. The
regulations respecting the Harbor and the shipping therein and all war activities on the water and
on the land are solely within the review of the British Admiralty and the Government of Canada.
We feel called upon to impress this point upon the Municipal Authorities of every City and Town
in Nova Scotia in order to solicit their sympathy with us in an appeal to the Dominion
Government to make full reparation for the material loss we have sustained through no fault or
emission, neglect or lack of foresight on our part. We beg to ask that at the first available
opportunity you may be pleased to have your Council pass a resolution in support of our appeal
and take the liberty of submitting a draft form of resolution as follows:“Resolved that the Town Council of the Town of
heartily and unanimously endorse the appeal of the City of Halifax
to the Dominion Government for full reparation for the material loss
suffered by the City and its Citizens from the explosion on board the
ammunition ship Mont Blanc on December 6th, 1917;
Further Resolved that copies of this resolution be forwarded forthwith
to the Honourable the Prime Minister of Canada and to the City
Council of the City of Halifax.”
We believe it to be unnecessary to do more to state the facts as given above in order to obtain
your unanimous support in behalf of our appeal to the authorities responsible for the disaster.
P.F. MARTIN, Mayor
Moved by Controller Finlay, seconded by Controller Hines that the report be concurred
in. Motion passed.
INVESTIGATION INTO CATASTROPHE
Read report Board of Control recommending the passage by the City Council of a
resolution requesting the Government of Canada to cause a thorough investigation to be
made into the cause of the catastrophe which happened in the City of Halifax on
December 6th.
The City Council,
Gentlemen:- The Board of Control beg to report that at a meeting held December 27 th, 1917, they
passed a resolution asking the Government of Canada to cause a thorough investigation to be
made into the cause of the catastrophe which happened in the City of Halifax on December 6th.
A copy of the resolution was forthwith forwarded to the Honourable Prime Minister, Sir R.L.
Borden, and on the following day copies of the resolution were handed to the following named
Cabinet Ministers then in the City of Halifax:Hon. S.C. Mewburn, Minister of Militia
Hon. C.C. Balantyne, Minister of Marine and Fisheries
Hon. J.D. Reid, Minister of Railways
Hon. F.B. Carvell, Minister of Public Works
Hon. A.K. McLean, Minister without Portfolio
The board recommended that the resolution be approved by the City Council.
On January 3rd the Board received the following letter from the Prime Minister’s secretary:Prime Minister’s Office, Ottawa, Ont., December 31st, 1917
L. Fred. Monaghan, Esq.,
City Clerk, Halifax
Dear Sir:- On behalf of the Prime Minister I beg to acknowledge your letter of the 27 th instant
setting forth a resolution adopted by the Board of Control of the City of Halifax requesting an
investigation into all the causes of the recent deplorable disaster and that measures be taken to
prevent an occurrence.
In reply I beg to state that these matters are at the present time having the most careful and
attentive consideration of the Government.
GEO. W. YATES, Prime Minister’s Secy
L. FRED. MONAGHAN, Secretary Board of Control
Moved by Controller Murphy, seconded by Controller Finlay that the report be approved.
Motion passed.
The following resolution is submitted:Whereas the recent catastrophe to the City of Halifax was apparently due to some causes which
might have been prevented, and attention to which may avert an occurance;
And Whereas the investigation at present being conducted is apparently concerned only with the
responsibility for the collision which resulted in the explosion, which, in the opinion of the
public, is the least important of the contributing causes;
And Whereas it may be that an investigation into all the causes can only be properly held by a
commission appointed by the Federal or even the Imperial Government;
Therefore Resolved that this Board request the Dominion Government to take such steps as are
necessary to fully ascertain all the causes of the disaster and also what measures should be taken
to prevent an occurrence.
Moved by Controller Murphy, seconded by Controller Finlay and passed unanimously.
MASSACHUSETTS MOTOR TRUCKS
Alderman Kelly asked if proper care is being taken in the way of housing, operation and
management of the ten valuable motor trucks presented to the City of Halifax by the
Commonwealth of Massachusetts. He advised the securing of the services of a competent
person for this duty.
The acting City Engineer stated that when not out working they are stored now at the City
Workshops, Bell Road, and are properly cared for.
Alderman Gillis, Chairman of the Transportation Committee, advised that more
supervision be given this matter.
THEFT OF LIQUOR FROM INSPECTOR’S OFFICE
Moved by Alderman Macnab, seconded by Alderman Kelly that His Worship the Mayor
hold an investigation into the matter of the statements made by the Evening Mail,
charging elected representatives of the City and City Officials with breaking into the
office of Liquor Inspector Tracey and stealing “booze.” Motion passed unanimously.
Moved by Controller Finlay, seconded by Controller Murphy that the Council do now
adjourn. Motion passed.
Council adjourns 9.20 o’clock.
P.F. MARTIN,
Mayor
L. FRED. MONAGHAN,
City Clerk
AFTERNOON SESSION
4.10 o’clock
Council Chamber, City Hall, January 31st, 1918
A special meeting of the City Council was held this afternoon at the above named hour;
present His Worship the Mayor, Controllers Finlay, Hines, Murphy and Taylor and
Aldermen Macnab, H.S. Colwell, Gillis, R.B. Colwell, Kelly, Foley, Hart, Day,
Guildford, Godwin and Parker.
The Council was summoned to proceed with business standing over and the transaction
of other business.
PRESENTATION OF PAPERS
The following named papers are submitted:Report Board of Control re tenders for Motor Fire Engine
Report Board of Control re Relief Advisory Committee
CONSIDERATION OF PAPERS SUBMITTED
MOTOR FIRE ENGINE
Read report Board of Control recommending the acceptance of the tender of the
American LaFrance Fire Engine Company for a $13,900.00 triple combination motor fire
engine, a duplicate of the fire engine “Cornwallis.”
City Hall, January 31st, 1918
The City Council,
Gentlemen:- Immediately after the explosion of December 6th, in which the Fire Department lost
the fire engine “Patricia,” the Board of Control took up the matter of it repairs and, or, the
purchase of another motor engine.
The wreckage of the “Patricia” was shipped to the American LaFrance Fire Engine Co’s factory
in Toronto and knocked down, when it was discovered that the manufacturers, though they could
repair it, would not undertake to restore it to a condition suitable to stand up to the Fire
Underwriters’ tests.
In response to a general demand from various influential organizations in the City, the Board took
steps to restore the Fire Department to its normal standard. Tenders were invited for new 750
gallon triple combination motor engine and three bids were received, as follows:-
City Hall, November 20th, 1917
The City Council,
Gentlemen:- The Board of Control recommend for adoption the accompanying report of the
Acting City Engineer which recommends that the Commission of Conservation be requested to
permit their Town Planning Advisor, Mr. Thomas Adams, to co-operate with the City Engineer in
re-planning the part of the City affected by the disaster.
L. FRED. MONAGHAN, Secretary Board of Control
City Engineer’s Office, December 15th, 1917
His Worship the Mayor,
Sir:- Mr Adams, the Town Planning Advisor for the Commission of Conservation is in town, and
has informed me that the Chairman of the Commission has instructed him to place his services at
the disposal of the City should the latter require the same.
I consider that it is in the interest of the City to have the benefit of all the experience that can be
obtained, in our endeavour to improve it, and I would recommend that the offer of the
commission be accepted, and that Mr. Adams be asked to co-operate with your City Engineer in
replanning the part of the City affected by the late disaster.
H.W. JOHNSTON, Acting City Engineer
Moved by Controller Murphy, seconded by Controller Finlay that the reports be adopted.
Motion passed.
GRATUITIES TO FAMILIES OF FIREMEN
Read report Board of Control recommending that the City secure legislation authorizing
the City to pay the sum of $1,000.00 to the families of seven members of the Fire
Department who lost their lives in the explosion, December 6th, namely – Edward
Condon, Chief Fire Department, William Brunt, Assistant Chief; William Broderick,
Captain No.1 Engine; Michael Maltus, Hoseman on motor engine; Frank Killeen,
Hoseman on motor engine; William Hennessey, Hoseman No. 5 engine; John Duggan,
Hoseman No. 2 hose.
City Hall, December 20th, 1917
The City Council,
Gentlemen:-The Board of Control beg to recommend that the legislation be sought authorizing
the City to pay to the families of Edward Condon, Chief Fire Department, Wm Brunt, Assistant
Chief; William Broderick, Captain No.1 Engine; Michael Maltus, Hoseman on motor engine;
Frank Killeen, Hoseman on motor engine; William Hennessey, Hoseman No. 5 engine; John
Duggan, Hoseman No. 2 hose, who lost their lives in the explosion of December 6 th, the sum of
One Thousand Dollars ($1,000.00) each.
L. FRED. MONAGHAN, Secretary Board of Control
Moved by Controller Taylor, seconded by Controller Finlay that the report be adopted.
Moved by Alderman Macnab, seconded by Alderman R.B. Colwell that the Board of
Control be requested to include in their recommendation the name of Alderman Parker.
The Board of Control reports that they have concurred in the recommendation of the
Council and amend their report accordingly.
The motion of Controller Taylor, seconded by Controller Finlay that the report be
adopted as amended is put and passed.
Moved by Controller Finlay, seconded by Controller Taylor that the Council do now
adjourn. Motion passed.
Council adjourns 4.20 o’clock.
P.F. MARTIN,
Mayor
L. FRED. MONAGHAN,
City Clerk
City Hall, February 7th, 1918
The City Council,
Gentlemen:-The Board of Control submit herewith with the recommendation that the same be
accepted the resignation of Miss Anna Hall, City Clerk’s Stenographer, to take effect March 1st,
1918.
It is recommended that Miss Hall be refunded the sum of $43.50 that being one half of the
superannuation assessments paid into the fund by her.
A report from the Treasurer of the Superannuation Fund is attached hereto.
L. FRED. MONAGHAN, Secretary Board of Control
Office of City Treasurer, February 5th, 1918
His Worship the Mayor and
Members Board of Control
Gentlemen:- I beg to report that in accordance with Sec. 11, Chapter 74, of the Acts 1914, Miss
Hall will be entitled to receive on March 1st, 1918, from the official Superannuation Fund the sum
of $43.50, that being one half of the total amount which she has contributed without interest.
JAMES J. HOPEWELL, City Treasurer
Moved by Controller Finlay, seconded by Controller Taylor that the report be adopted.
Motion passed.
INFECTIOUS DISEASES HOSPITAL
Read report Board of Control recommending that the City council grant the City Health
Board temporary permission to use a site on the south side of the City Home property for
a hospital for the treatment of infectious diseases.
City Hall, February 7th, 1918
The City Council,
Gentlemen:- At a meeting of the Board of Control held this morning they were in receipt of the
following communication from the City Health Board:Office of City Health Board
February 6th, 1918
From: Secretary City Health Board
To: Mayor Martin and Members Board of Control
Gentlemen:- At a meeting of the City Health Board yesterday I was instructed to inform you that
the Board is prepared to go ahead with the immediate construction of a hospital for the
treatment of infectious diseases if the Board of Control will grant permission to use a site
on the south side of the City Home property.
J.A. WATERS, secretary C.H.B.
It is recommended that the City Council grant the City Health Board temporary permission to use
a site on the south side of the City Home property for the purpose named.
L. FRED. MONAGHAN, Secretary Board of Control
Moved by Controller Finlay, seconded by Controller Hines that the report be adopted.
Motion passed, Controller Murphy dissenting.
BUILDING LINE No. 189 OXFORD STREET – JAS. A. MERRITT
Read report Board of Control recommending that Jas. A. Merritt be paid from the Street
Widening Fund the sum of $125.00, the compensation incurred in moving his house back
to the building line on said street.
City Hall, February 7th, 1918
The City Council,
Gentlemen:- Some time ago James A. Merritt applied for a permit to make improvements and
alterations to his house No. 185 Oxford Street and was refused the permit unless he removed his
back to conform with the established building line on that street. Mr Merritt moved his building
back at a cost of $125.00 which he asks the City to refund to him.
The Board of Control recommends that the sum of $125.00 be paid to Mr Merritt out of the Street
Widening Fund.
A report from the acting City Engineer is attached hereto.
L. FRED. MONAGHAN, Secretary Board of Control
City Engineer’s Office, February 7th, 1918
His Worship the Mayor
Sir:- I beg to report on the accompanying Minute of the Board of Control that Mr. Merritt owns
the property No. 185 Oxford Street. Some time ago, intending to make improvements and
alterations to his house, he applied for a permit for the same and was informed as to the building
line on this street and was told that no permit could be given for an addition which projected over
this building line.
Mr. Merritt moved his house back to the new line and made improvements. His statement is
incorrect when he says that the City Engineer told him he would be reimbursed on the completion
of the work, as much a statement was not made by me.
The moving of the house back, undoubtedly tends towards hastening the improvement of the
street due to having the building line fixed and built to. In my judgment the enhanced value to the
property in having a building line fixed on a residential street more than counterbalances the
restrictions placed on the property by such a line.
The amount of $125 claimed by Mr. Merritt is probably a fair amount for the work he did in
moving back his building, but for the reasons given above, I cannot at present see my way clear to
recommend that the City pay for this work.
H.W. JOHNSTON, Acting City Engineer
Moved by Controller Murphy, seconded by Controller Hines that the report be adopted.
Motion passed, Alderman R.B. Colwell dissenting.
FERRY PRIVILEGES FLEMING PARK
Read report Board of Control recommending the granting to Wm. Robinson of ferry
privileges at Fleming Park.
City Hall, February 7th, 1918
The City Council,
Gentlemen:-The Board of Control on the application of Wm. Robinson, Boatman, North West
Arm, beg to recommend that he be granted privileges at Fleming Park on terms similar to those
enjoyed by him on the Halifax side of the Arm subject to terms and conditions satisfactory to the
City Engineer and under an agreement to be drawn up by the City Engineer.
L. FRED. MONAGHAN, Secretary Board of Control
Moved by Controller Murphy, seconded by Controller Finlay that the report be adopted.
Motion passed.
ACADIEN SCHOOL PROPERTY
Read report Board of Control recommending that the city Council accept an offer from
Nickerson & Crease to purchase the Acadian School Property, Barrington and Argyle
Streets for the sum of $28,000.00.
City Hall, February 7th, 1918
The City Council,
Gentlemen:- For a long while the Board of Control has been endeavouring to dispose of the
Acadian School Property, Barrington and Argyle Streets. At various times offers have been made
but the Board held out fore the sum of $30,000.00. The property was placed in the hands of W.S.
& S.H. Rogers who have used their best endeavours to secure that price but have been unable to
do so. The best offer attainable is one just received from Nickerson & Crease, $28,000.00 for the
property in its present condition subject to an undertaking on the part of the City to repay to the
purchaser any compensation which the City may receive for damages caused by the explosion of
December 6th. This offer is open to acceptance up to and including 9th instant.
The Acting City Engineer estimates that it will cost $1,800.00 to restore the property to the
condition in which it was at the time of the explosion.
The Board of Control recommend that the offer of Messrs. Nickerson & Crease be accepted.
L. FRED. MONAGHAN, Secretary Board of Control
Halifax, N.S., February 7th, 1918
Board of Control,
City of Halifax
Gentlemen:- I submit to your consideration enclosed made to me on behalf of Nickerson &
Crease for purchase of property known as Acadian School and Outhit Premises. This property has
been in my hands for some time and I consider it a good offer and I await advice from you to
complete arrangements and perfect sale.
W. STETSON ROGERS
Halifax, N.S., February 6th, 1918
W. Stetson Rogers Esq.,
Real Estate Broker,
City
Dear Sir:- I am instructed by Messrs. Nickerson & Crease to offer the sum of $28,000.00 for the
property owned by the City of Halifax fronting on Barrington and Argyle Streets, the Barrington
Street property being occupied at present by C.W. Outhit and the Argyle Street property known
as the Acadian School, subject to an undertaking on behalf of the City of Halifax to repay to my
clients any compensation which the City may receive for damages caused to the property by the
recent explosion.
Will you kindly let me have a reply as soon as possible.
T.F. TOBIN
P.S. This offer is open to acceptance up to and including Saturday the 9th inst.
Moved by Controller Murphy, seconded by Controller Hines that the report be adopted
and the offer accepted. Motion passed.
FIRE DEPARTMENT
Read reports Board of Control and Chief Fire Department for the month of January.
Halifax, N.S., February 7th, 1918
The City Council,
Gentlemen:- The Board of Control submit for the information and approval of the City Council a
report from the Chief of the Fire Department for the month of January.
L. FRED. MONAGHAN, Secretary Board of Control
Office of Chief Fire Department, February 7th, 1918
Board of Control
Gentlemen:- I beg leave to make the following report for the month of January:There have been 45 alarms of fire during the month from the following causes:- chimneys 22,
acetylene 2, oil tank in bara 1, tar pot 1, defective fire place 1, plumbers lamp 1, rags in cellar 1,
bon fire 1, rubbish 1, thawing water pipes 2, false 2, under kitchen stove 1, electric iron 1, overheating stove pipe 1, hot ashes 1, defective chimney 3, unknown 1, rubbish in cellar 1, codite and
phosphorus 1.
Insurance at risk…$78,300.00
Insurance losses………… $5,620.60
Loss without insurance… $500.00
Total losses……………….$6,120.60
Recommendations
Recommended that the heirs of Frank Leahy, who died in hospital from injuries sustained on
December 6th, receive $1,000.00.
Recommended that the wiring in Building No.57 and 59 Duke Street be inspected by the City’s
Electrician’s staff.
J.W. CHURCHILL, Chief Halifax Fire Dept.
Moved by Controller Hines, seconded by Controller Taylor that the same be adopted.
Motion passed.
CITY HOME MONTHLY REPORT
Read report Board of Control covering report City Home for the month of January.
City Hall, February 6th, 1918
The City Council,
Gentlemen:- The Board of Control submit for the information of the City Council the report of the
City Home for the month of January.
L. FRED. MONAGHAN, Secretary Board of Control
Halifax, N.S., February 6th, 1918
His Worship the Mayor, Members of Board
Of Control and City Council
Gentlemen:- I beg to submit the following report for the information of Charities Department for
the month of January, 1918.
During the month there were 18 persons admitted into the City Home, 4 born, 18 discharged and
1 died. Of the number admitted 4 were chargeable to the Province and 14 to the City. The total
number of inmates January 31st was 313, made up of 181 men, 125 women and 11 children.
The following resolution is submitted:Whereas the Maritime Provinces and British Columbia are the only places on the Continent of
America that require vehicular traffic to “Keep to the Left” in meeting each other and;
Whereas the “Drive to the Left” is the cause of many accidents on our highways, and results in
great confusion to visitors to our Province, and furthermore prevents many people from touring in
Nova Scotia owing to the liability of damage;
Whereas the Province of New Brunswick will likely alter its traffic laws after May 1st, 1918, to
“Drive to the Right” and Prince Edward Island will amend its laws in the same way if New
Brunswick and Nova Scotia make the change;
Now Therefore Resolved that this Council respectfully ask the Provincial Legislature to cause to
be enacted at the next session of the Legislature a change in the Road Act, so that all vehicles will
“Drive to the Right,” and thus make our Province conform to the custom of all the rest of the
Continent.
Moved by Controller Taylor, seconded by Controller Hines and passed.
CONSERVATION OF FOOD
Read report Board of Control covering circular letter from the City Council at Ottawa
relating to the conservation of food.
City Hall, January 29th, 1918
The City Council,
Gentlemen:- The Board of Control beg to submit for the information of the City Council a
circular letter from the City Council of Ottawa relating to the conservation of food.
L. FRED. MONAGHAN, Secretary Board of Control
Filed.
ANNUAL PROVINCIAL EXHIBITION
Read report Board of Control covering message from His Worship the Mayor urging the
rehabilitation of the Annual Provincial Exhibition. (The message is in the form of a letter
from the Board of Control).
City Hall, January 24th, 1918
The City Council,
Gentlemen:- The Board of Control deem it their immediate and pressing duty to report to the City
Council on the matter of the Annual Provincial Exhibition.
About twenty years ago (Chapter 3, Acts Nova Scotia 1896, the Government of Nova Scotia and
City Council of Halifax mutually decided that it was expedient to provide for an annual
agricultural and industrial Exhibition for the Province, to be held in the City of Halifax, and for
the establishment and maintenance thereof on the joint account of the Provincial Government and
the Corporation of the City of Halifax in equal parts.
This Exhibition was established and held every year with one exception up to the present time,
war conditions having interrupted it for the year in which no fair was held.
In common with almost every other property in the City of Halifax, the Exhibition suffered by the
explosion of December 6th, 1917. Almost every building on the grounds was levelled to the earth,
and such of the structures that were left standing were rendered unfit for occupancy or for
permanent repair.
The financial loss both to the Provincial Government and to the City of Halifax, has been great,
but has as yet not been accurately scheduled.
The explosion came about through no fault of the Exhibition Commission, and that body will use
its best efforts to secure from every or any proper source, due and complete reparation.
Whilst these matter are under consideration in detail, the broad question of rehabilitation requires
our most urgent consideration.
The Board of Control is firmly convinced that the reasons enunciated in its early days for the
establishment of the Annual Exhibition in this City are as sound today as they were then.
The Board believes it to be unnecessary to elaborate the advantages of the holding of frequent
Exhibitions. Practical demonstrations on both hemispheres have established their world wide
intrinsic value.
The Exhibition receives no annual grant of money from either the Province or the City, and when
their receipts do not come up to their expenditures, the difference is called a deficit.
The Commission has always been criticised for this deficit, while the truth is that the word is
merely a misnomer brought about through the system of financing and not because of unforeseen
eventualities or mismanagement. We give no annual subsidy or grant, such is the custom
elsewhere.
The Board is of the opinion that the time never existed in the history of the Province when the
need for an Annual Provincial Exhibition was more urgent than the present. The exhibition must
not be looked upon as a holiday making. The war has created conditions demanding the utmost
zeal on the part of our educators in every branch of human endeavour. We must use every effort
to present before every individual in the Province every possible piece of information in our
power tending to educate our people in regard to all our activities, education, mines, fisheries,
lumber manufactures, agriculture in its multitude of subdivisions, arts and sciences.
There is no better medium for this than the Annual Provincial Exhibition.
Thos Board therefore recommends to the City Council that every means within their power be
take to re-establish or rehabilitate the Annual Provincial Exhibition in the City of Halifax, and to
that end to seek the earnest co-operation of the Provincial Government.
L. FRED. MONAGHAN, Secretary Board of Control
The following resolution is submitted:Resolved that the Board of Control respecting the rehabilitation of the Annual Provincial
Exhibition be adopted and that His Worship the Mayor, the City Engineer and the City Solicitor
be appointed in a Committee to await upon the Provincial Government and urge their cooperation with the City in re-establishing the Annual Provincial Exhibition in the City of Halifax,
and report to the Board of Control the means suggested for putting the Exhibition on an active
and sound basis.
Moved by Controller Hines, seconded by Controller Finlay and passed.
CITY HOME TENDERS FOR SUPPLIES
Read report Board of Control re tenders for certain supplies for the City Home.
The City Council,
Gentlemen:- The Board of Control beg to report that the Secretary of the City Home interviewed
Wentzells Limited, who at present hold the expiring contract for groceries, and the Leonard
Fisheries for fresh fish and that Wentzells Limited agree to extend their tender at present rates for
a period of three months and the Leonard Fisheries on the same terms until July 31st, 1918.
It is recommended that this arrangement be approved by the Council.
L. FRED. MONAGHAN, Secretary Board of Control
Moved by Controller Hines, seconded by Controller Taylor that the report be adopted.
Motion passed.
CABMAN’S SHELTER GRAND PARADE
Read report Board of Control recommending that the small structure on the southern
portion of the Grand Parade be utilized until Spring as a Cabman’s shelter.
City Hall, January 15th, 1918
The City Council,
Gentlemen:- The Board of Control recommend for adoption by the City Council the
accompanying recommendation of Controller Murphy that the small structure now on the
southern portion of the Grand Parade, which was used during the recruiting campaign, be
utilized as a cabman’s shelter until the spring.
L. FRED. MONAGHAN, Secretary Board of Control
Halifax, N.S., January 15th, 1918
His Worship the Mayor and
Board of Control
Gentlemen:- The small structure which was erected on the southern portion of the Parade
Grounds and utilized up to the present with the Recruiting Campaign, is now, I understand, being
discontinued for this purpose. I would like to recommend that instead of immediately removing
the structure it be allowed to remain till the spring and permission be given to the cabmen who
have privileges at the parade to occupy same during the winter months.
I feel sure this request will meet with favourable consideration.
JOHN MURPHY, Controller
Moved by Controller Murphy, seconded by Controller Finlay that the report be adopted.
Moved in amendment by Alderman R.B. Caldwell, seconded by Alderman Gillis that the
report be referred back to the Board of Control.
Amendment put and passed, 10 voting for the same and 4 against as follows:For the Amendment
Against it
Controllers Hines
Taylor
Aldermen Macnab
Gillis
R.B. Colwell
Kelly
Foley
Hart
Guildford
Parker – 10
Controllers Finlay
Murphy
Aldermen Day
Godwin – 4
PUBLIC SCHOOLS – GRATUITY $1,000.00 TO MRS. ANNIE PRITCHARD
Read report Board of Control recommending that the city do not oppose any legislation
sought by the School Board for the purpose of obtaining authority to pay a gratuity of
$1,000.00 to Mrs. Annie Pritchard, widow of John Pritchard, janitor of the Richmond
School, killed while on duty.
Moved by Controller Taylor, seconded by Controller Murphy that the said Ordinance
having been read a first time be forthwith read a second time. Motion passed.
Read a second time an Ordinance entitled “An Ordinance to Regulate Traffic on Streets.”
TRAFFIC ORDINANCE – SPRING GARDEN ROAD A ONE-WAY STREET
The traffic ordinance submitted and read a first and second time in council on November
8th,1917, the purpose of which is to make the eastern portion of Spring Garden Road a
one-way street is taken up for its third reading.
Moved by Controller Taylor, seconded by Controller Finlay that said Ordinance be now
read a third time. Motion passed.
Read a third time an Ordinance entitled “An Ordinance to Amend Ordinance No.4 of
Streets.”
Ordinance to Amend Ordinance No.4 of Streets –
Be it enacted by the Council of the City of Halifax as follows:Ordinance No.4 of the City of Halifax of streets is amended by adding thereto the following
section, immediately following section 56 (d).
56 (e) No vehicle except a hearse or other vehicles in attendance upon a funeral, or a street car, or
Fire apparatus shall traverse Spring Garden Road in a westerly direction between Barrington and
Grafton Streets.
Moved by Controller Taylor, seconded by Controller Finlay that said Ordinance having
been read three times in Council be now adopted and ordered to be forwarded to the
Governor-in-Council for approval. Motion passed.
CHAIN LAKES HOUSING FOR SOLDIERS
Moved by Alderman Kelly, seconded by Alderman Gillis that this Council recommend to
the Board of Control that they reconsider the matter of permitting Military families to be
housed in the temporary quarters constructed after the outbreak of War near Chain Lake
dam.
(See Board of Control Minutes, January 31st, 1918)
Motion passed.
CITY FIRE INSURANCE
Alderman Macnab asked if the late Fire Chief Condon’s automobile was insured.
The Alderman was informed that the automobile was not insured.
Moved by Alderman Parker, seconded by Alderman R.B. Colwell that this Council
request the Board of Control to submit a report to this Council showing all property
insured with the values of the amount of insurance carried and a schedule for all property
not insured including fire apparatus. Motion passed.
NEW ASSESSMENT ACT
Moved by Alderman Kelly, seconded by Controller Finlay that this Council appoint a
Committee of three to take up with the members of Trade and Labor Council, the Council
of the Board of Trade and other interested organizations the detail of the new assessment
act and report back to this Council. Motion passed and the following Committee is
appointed by Council – Aldermen Kelly, Macnab and Godwin.
POLICE PATROLMEN
Alderman Gillis called attention of Controller Taylor to the lack of Police Patrol men in
the west end of Ward 2.
REDUCING STREET RAIWAY FARES
Moved by Alderman Kelly, seconded by Alderman Parker that the City Solicitor be
instructed to prepare an Act to allow school children and working men to travel on the
street railway cars during certain hours at reduced fares. Motion passed.
COMMITTEE ON LEGISLATION
Controller Murphy asked the Council to appoint a special Committee on Legislation and
to watch the progress of legislation through the Local Legislature.
Moved by Alderman R.B. Colwell, seconded by Alderman Gillis that Aldermen Kelly
and Macnab together with the members of the Board of Control be a special Committee
on Legislation. Motion passed.
ELECTRIC WIRING INSPECTION
Alderman Parker asked if the City Electrician and his staff are inspecting electric wiring
in the north end of the City where temporary repairs are being made.
Referred to the Board of Control.
BUILDING LAWS REVISION
Moved by Alderman Kelly, seconded by Alderman Gillis that the Board of Control have
drafted immediately a modern building code in accordance with the National Board of
Fire Underwriters’ requirements so that the same can be presented to the Legislature at its
approaching session. Motion passed.
Moved by Alderman Kelly, seconded by Alderman Gillis that the Council do now
adjourn. Motion passed.
Council adjourns at 10.10 o’clock.
P.F. MARTIN,
Mayor
L. FRED. MONAGHAN,
City Clerk
MOTOR VEHICLES
Alderman Gillis complained of the reckless driving of dilapidated taxi automobiles by
irresponsible licensed taxi drivers, who have old cars which cannot be insured and who
commit damage to the cars of other owners. He asked that the Board of Control consider
means of mitigating the nuisance.
POLL TAX
The item probably review from poll tax, at request of Controller Finlay, is referred back
to the Board.
ESTIMATE 1918-19
The whole estimate is referred back to the Board of Control for further consideration.
FIRE PROTECTION EMERGENCY SHELTERS
Alderman Parker asked if ant steps are being taken to provide fire protection to the
temporary buildings on the Exhibition grounds.
LEGISLATION 1918
Read report Board of Control covering legislation prepared by the City Solicitor proposed
to be submitted to the Legislature at its approaching session.
The said legislation is read and explained by the City Solicitor, and embraced the
following subjects:Sewage Frontage Rates
Peddlers’ License Penalties
Water Meters
Neglected Colored Children
Gratuities to Widows of Firemen
Superannuation for City Home Officials
Fire Escapes
Expropriation of Property
Gerrish Street Engine House
Sewers in Streets not take over by City
Limit of Assessment for General Purposes
Expropriation Arbitrators
Amount to be borrowed and included in Estimates
Alderman H.S. Colwell asked that application be made to the Relief Commission to pay
the gratuities to the widows of firemen killed in the explosion.
OILING OF STREETS
Alderman Kelly asked that the Board of Control consider the amending of the law
relating to the oiling of streets so that the abutting owners would not have to pay the
whole cost.
POLICE APPONTMENTS
Alderman Kelly asked that legislation be sought restoring to the City Council the
authority to appoint and dismiss policemen.
POLES IN STREETS
Alderman Kelly asked that the Board of Control to revise the Ordinance relating to
electric wire poles in streets to better regulate the character and appearance of poles and
their locations.
The draft legislation, with the exceptions noted, is approved and the Solicitor authorized
to submit the same to the Legislature.
Moved by Controller Hines, seconded by Controller Finlay that the Council do now
adjourn. Motion passed.
Council adjourns 6.40 o’clock.
P.F. MARTIN,
Mayor
L. FRED. MONAGHAN,
City Clerk
TOWN PLANNING
Moved by Alderman Kelly, seconded by Alderman Macnab that the Board of Control be
recommended to include in the Civic Estimate the sum of $500.00 to meet expenses of
the Town Planning Board. Motion passed.
INFECTIOUS DISEASES HOSPITAL
The Board of Control verbally reported that at a meeting of the Board held this morning
that they had waited upon Dr. N.E. McKay, Chairman of the City Health Board, who
stated that the Relief Commission had called for tenders for the erection of a temporary
hospital for infectious diseases cases on the City Home property and that the lowest
tender amounted to about $27,000.00. The Relief Commission was not prepared to spend
that amount but were prepared to erect a temporary structure at a cost not to exceed
$10,000.00 and proposed to proceed with the work unless the City made other
arrangements. Dr. McKay recommended that the tender of $27,000.00 be accepted; that
the offer of $10,000 from the Relief Commission be accepted and be utilized in the
construction of the new building, and also the amount of $8,000.00 which the City claims
for damages to the Infectious Diseases Hospital at Rockhead, the remaining sum of about
$9,000.00 to be financed by the City.
The Board of the principal of Dr. McKay’s suggestion and recommended that the work
be proceeded with on the City Home site.
Moved by Alderman Kelly, seconded by Alderman Gillis that the verbal report of the
Board of Control be referred back to that Board for further consideration and report/
Motion passed.
ADJOURNMENT
10.40 o’clock p.m. Moved by Controller Murphy, seconded by Controller Finlay that the
Council do now adjourn for the period of one hour. Motion passed.
11.45 o’clock. The Council resumes its session pursuant to adjournment.
INFECTIOUS DISEASES HOSPITAL
The Board of Control verbally reports that they have reconsidered the matter of a
proposed expenditure of $27,000.00 on a temporary hospital for infectious diseases on
the City Home site and recommend adversely to the proposal for the present.
Moved by Controller Finlay, seconded by Controller Murphy that the verbal report of the
Board of Control be concurred in. Motion passed.
SALARY CITY CLERK’S STENOGRAPHERS
The Board of Control verbally report recommending that the salaries of the two
stenographers, City Clerk’s Office, namely - $700 and $600 respectively, as originally
recommended be approved.
Moved by Controller Murphy, seconded by Controller Hines that the recommendations of
the Board of Control be approved.
Moved in amendment by Alderman R.B. Colwell, seconded by Alderman Kelly that the
report be referred back to the Board of Control for further consideration.
Amendment put and passed, 9 voting for the same and 5 against it, as follows:For the Amendment
Controller Finlay
Aldermen Macnab
Gillis
R.B. Colwell
Kelly
Hart
Guildford
Godwin – 9
Against it
Controllers Hines
Murphy
Taylor
Aldermen Foley
Parker – 5
At suggestion of Controller Murphy the Council temporarily suspends its business to
enable the Board of Control to consider the matter.
INFECTIOUS DISEASES HOSPITAL
Read report Board of Control recommending the reconstruction of the Infectious
Diseases Hospital at Rockhead.
City Hall, March 4th, 1918
The City Council,
Gentlemen:- The Board of Control beg to report that the Halifax relief Commission has under
consideration a proposal to assist the situation with respect to the immediate necessity for
providing accommodation for cases of infectious diseases. The Commission is prepared to
expend up to $10,000.00 for this purpose and this Board recommends that application be made to
them to utilize that sum in improving and enlarging the present Infectious Diseases Hospital at
Rockhead, which was damaged by the explosion.
The City has a claim of about $8,000.00 for damage done to the building, which when adjusted
and added to the $10,000.00 which the Commission is prepared to expend would make a fund of
$18,000. If this money were expended on the present building as an enlargement of it,
necessitated by the anticipations of the Commissions because of the extraordinary conditions
existing through lack of housing accommodation and the large number of non-residents now
temporarily within the City it would stand as a more permanent work than the originally proposed
erection of a temporary structure on the City Home property and the sum of $10,000.00 would be
applied to a permanently useful purpose instead of being practically wasted.
L. FRED. MONAGHAN, Secretary Board of Control
Moved by Controller Murphy, seconded by Controller Finlay that the report be adopted.
Read protest from Chairman and two other members of the City Health Board against the
reconstruction of the Infectious Diseases Hospital at Rockhead.
Halifax, N.S., March 2nd, 1918
To His Worship the Mayor and City Council:We the undersigned members of the City Health Board enter our strongest protest against
reconstructing the old Infectious Diseases Hospital at Rockhead prison for the following amongst
other reasons:(1) The location is inconvenient for patients and for the families and also for attending
Physicians. At times in winter it is almost impossible to get to or from the hospital
because of conditions of the roads from Duffus Street. This is especially true at night in
ambulance or emergency calls.
(2) The I.D. Hospital was condemned in the spring of 1916 by the Board of Health after
careful and through examination of the building with the help of an architect. It was
decided then that it was not worth while to spend money on such an old dilapidated
building – the wings were only shells – towards remodelling and making additions to it.
The location was not suitable for such an institution. The same objections hold true today
with even greater force no matter whose money is used to reconstruct this building. The
health Board then decided to build a new hospital in the near future in a more convenient
and desirable location.
(3) It is impossible to obtain trained nurses to take positions at a hospital at Rockhead. This
is especially true now, and the Hospital must have some graduate nurses on the staff to
make it efficient.
(4) We are irreconcilably opposed to have a hospital for Infectious Diseases within two
hundred yards of a Public Abattoir where all the cattle, pigs and sheep for the City are to
be slaughtered. The smell emanating from the offal would in summer be unbearable, and
the presence of hordes of infected flies would not help patients to get better and might
poison them
Besides the noise of cattle, the bleating of sheep and the squealing of pigs would be
unbearable to the sick. The institution would never be patronized by paying patients.
(5) That a more substantial and durable hospital could be constructed on the old site than on
City Home ground for the same money is to say the least misleading.
N.E. MacKAY, Chairman
F.C. CRAIG
J.J. HINES
By unanimous leave of Council a delegation from the Halifax Medical Society is
permitted to address the meeting.
The Council is addressed in opposition to the reconstruction of the Infectious Diseases
Hospital at Rockhead by Dr. A.C. Hawkins, Dr. N.E. MacKay, Chairman of the City
Health Board, Dr. A.I. Mader and Capt. A.G. Nicholls, M.D., Bacteriologist, Victoria
General Hospital, and by ex-Controller John Mckeen.
M.S. Clarke on behalf of the Real Estate Owners objected to the construction of an
isolation hospital on the south side of the City Home property and suggested that there
would be no objection to its erection on the north side of that property on the Morris
Street front.
Dr. Nader advised that in any case the hospital should be termed Isolation Hospital
instead of an Infectious Diseases Hospital.
Moved by Alderman Kelly, seconded by Alderman Gillis that the matter be referred back
to the Board of Control with the recommendation that the Board engage a competent
architect to prepare plans for a permanent
Joseph Johnston, age sixty four, (64) has twenty-five (25) years service in the Permanent force
and eighteen (18) years in the Volunteer force, having joined the Department in 1875 a period of
forty-three (43) years. The Firemen’s Superannuation Fund will pay $117.26 per year.
J.J. HINES, Controller
Moved by Controller Hines, seconded by Controller Taylor that the report be adopted.
Motion passed.
LAUNDRIES, SPECIAL TAX
Read report Board of Control recommending that legislation be obtained to authorize the
imposition of a special tax of $100.00 each on laundries.
City Hall, February 26th, 1918
The City Council,
Gentlemen:- The Board of Control beg to recommend that the City Solicitor prepare legislation
authorizing the City to impose a special tax of $100.00 on each laundry doing business in the
City.
L. FRED. MONAGHAN, Secretary Board of Control
Moved by Controller Finlay, seconded by Controller Taylor that the report be adopted.
Motion passed.
NORTH END FIRE PROTECTION
Read report Board of Control recommending fire protection north end of the City.
City Hall, March 7th, 1918
The City Council,
Gentlemen:- The Board of Control beg to recommend for the protection of the temporary
shelters on the Exhibition Grounds and for the protection of north end property generally that the
Relief Commission be requested to erect a temporary fire station on the Incinerator property or
give the Fire Department the use of one of the buildings at present used by the contractors on the
said Incinerator property for the accommodation of a chemical engine and horses and men and
that the offer of the American LaFrance Fire Engine Company to repair the Motor fire engine
Patricia for $6,000 be accepted; the said engine when repaired to be placed in the temporary fire
station proposed to be erected.
L. FRED. MONAGHAN, Secretary Board of Control
Moved by Controller Hines, seconded by Controller Taylor that the report be adopted.
Motion passed, Alderman Godwin dissenting.
SPECIAL LICENCE FEES
At suggestion of members of Council the Board of Control is requested to take into
consideration the advisability of licensing restaurants, shoe shine parlors, and increasing
the licence fees for public Billiard an Pool Rooms, Bowling Alleys and Bill Boards.
FIRE DEPARTMENT LOAN OF $6,000.00 FOR EQUIPMENT
Read report Board of Control recommending the borrowing of $6,000.00 for additional
Fire Department equipment.
City Hall, March 5th, 1918
The City Council,
Gentlemen:- The Board of Control recommend that the City Solicitor be instructed to add to the
City’s Short Term Borrowing Bill the sum of $6,000.00 for additional Fire Department
equipment.
L. FRED. MONAGHAN, Secretary Board of Control
Moved by Controller Hines, seconded by Controller Taylor that the report be adopted.
Motion passed, Alderman Godwin dissenting.
BUILDING LAWS
Read report Board of Control recommending that legislation be applied for authorizing
the City to revise the Building Laws and put the same into operation when so revised.
City Hall, March 7th, 1918
The City Council,
Gentlemen:- The Board of Control beg to recommend that the City Solicitor be authorized to
draft and submit to the local legislature an Act authorizing the City to revise the Building Laws
and put the same into operation when so revised.
L. FRED. MONAGHAN, Secretary Board of Control
Moved by Controller Murphy, seconded by Controller Hines that the report be adopted.
Motion passed.
RELIEF EXPENDITURE $16, 347.98
Read report Board of Control covering schedule of accounts, recommending that the
Relief Commission be requested to loan the City $16, 347.98 for Relief work following
the explosion.
City Hall, February 28th, 1918
The City Council,
Gentlemen:- The Board of Control beg to report that the City Council’s Advisory Relief
Committee waited upon the Relief Commission and presented bills totalling $16, 347.98 for
various relief work including temporary repairs to different City institutions.
The Commission advised the Committee that they would, on application, loan the City the sum
required to pay the accounts.
The Board of Control recommend that the City Council accept the offer of the Commission.
L. FRED. MONAGHAN, Secretary Board of Control
Office of City Clerk, Halifax, N.S., February 26th, 1918
The City Council Advisory Committee,
His Worship the Mayor,
Chairman
Sir:- Under instructions from the Board of Control, February 25th, I forward you herewith a list of
accounts totalling $16, 347.98 incurred for various purposes in connection with Relief Work after
the explosion. The Board of Control desire the Advisory Committee to lay these accounts before
the Relief Committee with the request that that body may be pleased to advance a sum of money
sufficient to pay the accounts, until such time as a final determination is reached as to how the
matter will eventually be financed. The City is being pressed by creditors for a settlement of these
bills.
L. FRED. MONAGHAN, City Clerk
Office of City Auditor, February 22nd, 1918
Dear Fred Monaghan, Esq.,
City Clerk
Dear Sir:- Attached hereto please find statement of bills received to date. These accounts which
are chargeable to the Halifax Relief Commission have been classified under the various
Departments, as requested by the Board of Control, and total $16, 347.98.
W.W. FOSTER, City Auditor
Explosion Accounts
As listed and passed to City Clerk February 21st, 1918
Board of Health – Relief
Adams Express Co
Blackadar Bros.
Halifax Herald
Robinson’s Ltd
Hillis and Sons
King Edward Stables
Farquhar Bros
Morton and Thompson
Jan 2-4
$68.75
Dec 11-20
$20.00
Dec 13-20
$7.93
Dec 24 – Jan 4
$6.50
Jan. 8
$217.93
Dec 8 – Jan 1
$184.00
Jan. 5
$5.45
Dec 17-24
$7.60
G.M. Smith & Co
Baldwin & Co.
The Ross Print
Geo. H. Kinsman
T.C. Allen & Co.
Farquhar Bros.
19-22
$25.90
Dec 19-22
$8.60
Dec. 9
$1.25
Jan 23.
$25.85
Jan 3-16
Dec 17.
$25.00
$96.49
$1.50
Cragg Bros. Co.
Hillis and Sons
$97.99
Dec. 24
$3.00
Dec 13-31
$301.10
$1,025.46
Fire Department – Relief
Silliker & McMann
Jan 3-18
$966.39
Jan. 31
$1,708.67
Feb. 8
$289.67
Jan 10 - Feb 8
$157.66
Jan. 31
$3.55
Jan. 31
$552.34
Feb.7
$24.00
Jan. 3
$21.60
$3,805.88
Tower Canadian Ltd
Hillis and Sons
Dec. 14
$122.50
Dec. 8
$39.70
Dec. 31
$49.90
$89.60
Longard's Ltd
Grant Bros. Ltd
George P.Henry
Dec. 18
$58.50
Dec. 18
$172.50
Nov. 5
$4.25
Nov. 24
$8.50
$12.75
Blackadar Bros.
Halifax Herald
S. Cunard & Co
Robert Taylor Co
N.S. Furnishings Co
John MacInnes & Son
Melvin & Co
Lawrence Hardware Co
Stairs, Son & Morrow
Wm. Robertson & Son
Cragg Bros. Co.
Piercy Supply Co
F.W. McNally
E.S. Sharpe
Brookfield Bros
F.W. McNally
James Taylor
Longard Bros
Wm. Gilroy
Cash paid for labor
Dec 10-22
$26.35
Dec. 12
$6.27
Dec. 11
$48.70
Dec. 14
$8.50
Dec. 13
$8.50
$54.97
$17.00
Dec. 17
$97.50
Dec. 31
$28.50
Dec. 31
$2.91
Dec 7-27
$24.69
Dec. 10
$0.35
Dec. 8
$27.08
Dec. 13
$1.82
Dec 8-10
$12.85
Dec. 8
$28.16
Jan 4-17
$11.00
Dec. 19
$126.36
Dec 8-10
$178.03
Dec. 18
$2.00
Dec. 8
$5.04
Dec 10-19
$114.50
Dec. 6
$10.00
Feb. 9
$84.50
$5,115.34
Public Gardens - Relief
Cash paid for labour
Dec. 22
$46.17
Jan. 4
$25.92
H.D.MacKenzie
A.J. Grant & Co
David Roche
Longard Bros
Jas. Simmonds & Co
R. Power, Glazing
Jan. 18
$25.62
Feb. 1
$61.92
Feb. 15
$43.60
Jan. 16
$72.00
Jan 11-24
$56.00
Jan.
$190.75
$72.77
$100.15
$125.45
$38.70
$859.35
City Home – Relief
Silliker & McMann
Wm. Fartridge
Wm. Stairs, Son & Morrow
Feb. 8
$724.40
Dec. 10
$30.00
Dec. 10
$5.00
$759.40
Police – Relief
Jas. Simmonds & Co
A.M. Bell & Co
Jan. 21
$17.50
Feb. 8
$2.12
Feb. 8
$0.34
Feb. 9
$1.05
Dec. 15
$2.00
Dec. 17
$4.00
Dec. 27
$2.00
Dec. 11
$8.75
Dec. 21
$2.00
Dec. 15
$2.00
Dec. 20
$1.50
$7.59
The Ross Print
Piercy Supply Co
A.M. Bell & Co
Imperial Oil Co
John MacInnes & Son
Lawrence Hardware Co
A.M. Bell & Co
Isnor Brothers
J.A. Shaw
E.A. Crease & Son
Clayton & Son
A.M. Bell & Co
W.S. Munnis
A.M. Bell & Co
$22.25
Jan. 21
$5.00
Jan. 11
$4.65
Dec. 7
$1.85
Dec. 7
$10.00
Dec. 8
$43.18
Jan. 2
$1.00
Dec. 2
$0.20
Jan. 15
$5.30
$53.18
$6.50
Jan. 11
$0.17
Dec. 29
$20.00
Dec. 7
$81.00
Dec. 11
$1.50
Dec. 27-28
$39.00
Jan. 30
$5.70
Dec. 1
$1.00
Dec. 11
$17.40
Dec. 7
$24.10
$251.75
Jan. 17
$10.00
Jan. 2
$2.50
Jan. 4
$5.21
Dec. 11
$4.24
Dec. 31
$0.20
A.J. Grant & Co
Farquhar Bros.
Jan. 24
$2.19
Jan. 29
$0.65
Jan. 15
$1.25
Jan. 8
$1.15
Jan. 11
$27.29
$0.11
Jan. 11
$0.11
Jan 12-16
$44.75
$608.80
Police Relief (Continued)
A.M. Bell & Co
Jan. 31
The Ross Print
Jan. 26
$2.50
Jan. 22
$2.50
Jan. 7
$2.50
Jan. 7
$2.50
Jan. 18
$2.50
Jan. 16
$2.50
Jan. 10
$2.50
Jas. Simmonds & Co
A.M. Bell & Co
W. H. Ritcey
Commercial Cable Co
Cash paid
$1.55
Jan. 14
$17.50
$1.35
Feb. 4
$0.87
Dec.
$107.80
Dec. 14
$4.26
Dec. 21
$970.00
Dec. 28
$449.00
Jan. 12
$589.50
Jan. 26
$560.25
Feb. 9
$430.00
$3,132.08
Publicity
T.C. Allen
Blackadar Bros.
Halifax Herald
Chroncile Publishing
Dec. 12-22
$47.95
Dec. 7
$15.90
Dec. 15
$12.40
Dec. 12
$16.50
Dec. 19
$8.25
Dec. 24
$9.30
Dec. 10, 11
$28.65
Dec. 13
$8.45
Dec. 19
$67.86
Dec. 13
$6.57
Dec. 26
$12.54
Dec. 12
$22.50
Dec. 11
$22.50
Dec. 11
$84.37
Dec. 20
$12.54
Dec. 20
$12.54
Dec. 19
$20.10
Dec. 24
$6.27
Dec. 13
$8.75
Dec. 12
$6.27
Dec. 11
$6.27
Dec. 10
$3.75
Dec. 11
$20.00
Dec. 8
$3.75
$91.00
$224.79
$87.70
$451.44
Rockhead – Relief
Carrite Patterson
Hillis and Sons
Melvin & Co
Carried Forward
Brought Forward
Rockhead (Continued)
Imperial Oil Co
Paid for labor
Rhodes, Curry & Co
Brookfield Bros
A.J. Grant & Co
Carrite Patterson
Dec. 13
$27.60
Dec. 29
$46.00
Dec. 13
$73.60
$11.20
Dec. 13
$1.30
$86.10
$11,951.87
$86.10
$11,951.87
Dec. 28
$2.75
Dec-Feb
$731.58
Jan. 29
$330.50
Jan. 29
$716.83
Jan. 29
$40.95
Jan. 17
$84.00
$1,992.68
Relief
Isnor Brothers
Colwell Bros.
Brookfield Bros
Rhodes, Curry & Co
Imperial Oil Co
Jas. Simmonds & Co
Imperial Oil Co
Wood Bros. Co.
Davis and Parker & Co
Lawrence Hardware Co
Office Speciality Co
Brookfield Bros
Dec. 20
$20.50
Dec. 20
$16.25
Dec. 1
$316.85
Dec. 15
$350.01
Dec. 15
$24.71
Dec. 12
$1.70
Dec. 28
$2.25
Dec. 10
$5.50
Dec. 10
$5.50
Dec. 11
$5.50
Dec. 28
$2.75
Dec. 14
$2.75
Dec. 8-11
$24.95
Dec. 10
$10.50
Dec. 29
$11.50
Dec. 11
$9.20
Dec. 21
$50.03
Dec. 7
$7.50
Dec. 10
$6.75
Dec. 8
$5.04
Dec. 8
$6.50
Dec. 8
$4.01
Dec. 8
$17.20
$53.00
Frank Reardon
Morton and Thompson
Longard's Ltd
I.B. Shaffner & Co
$22.00
$139.80
Dec. 21
$51.15
Dec. 22
$9.50
$60.73
$105.63
$60.65
Dec. 8
$10.00
Dec. 9
$115.45
Dec. 28
$40.38
Jas. Simmonds & Co
Lawrence Hardware Co
Brookfield Bros
Wm. Robinson & Son
Rhodes, Curry & Co
Dec. 10
$4.85
Dec. 10
$5.25
Dec. 14
$10.05
$8.70
Dec. 7
$0.38
Dec. 8
$2.00
Dec. 10
$2.00
Dec. 10
$0.35
Dec. 14
$42.75
Dec. 14
$0.95
Stairs, Son & Morrow
Dec. 8
$2.50
Dec. 8
$2.50
Rhodes, Curry & Co
Longard's Ltd
Dec. 14
Bezansons
Melvin & Co
Jas. Simmonds & Co
Dec. 10
Dec. 17
$43.70
$5.00
$0.95
$108.83
$211.15
$319.98
$21.60
$113.65
Dec. 6
$51.65
$1,956.77
Water Department
Jas. Simmonds & Co
Geo. H. Kinsman
A.L. Meagher
Frank Reardon
Jan. 15
$1.89
Jan. 18
$2.75
Dec. 9
$4.05
Dec. 7
$162.11
Dec. 13
$3.14
Dec. 16
$2.84
Dec. 29
$100.50
Dec. 29
$109.53
Dec. 21
$2.14
Dec. 16
$11.03
Dec. 16
$43.48
Dec. 15
$3.20
$275.86
$446.66
Total
$16,347.98
Moved by Controller Finlay, seconded by Controller Murphy that the report be adopted.
Motion passed.
POLICE APPOINTMENTS
Read report Board of Control re police appointments recommending that no change be
made in the law as it stands at present.
City Hall, February 25th, 1918
The City Council,
Gentlemen:- The Board of Control beg to report that they have given further consideration to
Alderman Kelly’s suggestion that legislation be sought restoring to the City Council the authority
to appoint and dismiss policemen.
His Worship Mayor Martin and
Members Board of Control
Gentlemen:- In re superannuation of Chief of Police John A. Rudland the Police Superannuation
Fund will pay 24-35 of his salary, $1,097.14, and the amount to be levied will be 1-35 viz,
$45.72.
Respectfully submitted on behalf of Trustees
JAMES H. HOPEWELL, City Treasurer
Moved by Controller Taylor, seconded by Controller Hines that the report be adopted.
Motion passed.
SUPERANNUATION OF POLICEMEN
Alderman H.S. Caldwell asked that the Board of Control take into consideration the
advisability of amending the law in respect to the age limit for the superannuation for
members of the Police Force.
GRATUITY TO DAUGHTER OF JOHN SPRUIN
Read report Board of Control recommending the payment of a gratuity to Florence, the
daughter of John Spruin, a veteran fireman, killed in the explosion of December 6th.
City Hall, February 21st, 1918
The City Council,
Gentlemen:- The Board of Control beg to recommend that the City Solicitor add to the City’s
legislation the sum of $500.00 to be paid by the City as a gratuity to Mrs. Lynch, daughter of
John Spruin, a veteran fireman who was killed while responding to an alarm of fire with
the Fire Department on the morning of the Explosion December 6th. The said amount to
be included in the Estimates for 1918-19.
L. FRED. MONAGHAN, Secretary Board of Control
Moved by Controller Finlay, seconded by Controller Hines that the report be adopted.
Motion passed, Alderman R.B. Colwell dissenting.
City Hall, February 25th, 1918
The City Council,
Gentlemen:- The Board of Control recommend that the City Council request the Military
authorities to permit Major F.W.W. Doane, the City Engineer, to return to his civic duties.
Controller Murphy dissents from the recommendation of the Board.
L. FRED. MONAGHAN, Secretary Board of Control
Moved by Controller Finlay, seconded by Controller Hines that the report be adopted.
Motion passed.
ISOLATION HOSPITAL
Read report Board of Control covering letter from the Halifax Relief Commission re
Isolation Hospital.
City Hall, March 7th, 1918
The City Council,
Gentlemen:- The Board of Control submit herewith for the information of the City Council a
letter from the Relief Commission relating to an emergency Isolation Hospital.
It is recommended that the City Council accept the decision of the Relief Commission and
request them to proceed with the erection of an emergency isolation hospital on the Morris Street
front of the City Home property with the further request that the Commission call for new tenders
for the heating and plumbing of the proposed structure.
L. FRED. MONAGHAN, Secretary Board of Control
Halifax Relief Commission,
Halifax, N.S., March 6th, 1918
His Worship the Mayor,
Halifax, N.S.
Dear Sir:- Referring to our conference of yesterday, your latest proposal was considered by us
and communicated to our Chairman. In view of the serious delay which will be involved in
carrying out your proposal, the Commission cannot accept it.
From the standpoint of the Commission the situation is an emergence one and demands the
speediest action and unless this is recognized by the City agreeing to accede to the policy of the
Commission in this emergent matter, the Commission must proceed at once to make its own
arrangement in order to discharge it special responsibilities.
RALPH P. BELL, Secretary
Moved by Controller Finlay, seconded by Controller Hines that the report be adopted.
Motion passed.
AFTERNOON SESSION
Council Chamber, City Hall, April 3rd, 1918
A special meeting of the City Council was held this afternoon at the above named hour;
present deputy Mayor H.S. Colwell, Chairman, Controllers Finlay, Murphy, Taylor and
Aldermen Macnab, Gillis, R. B. Colwell, Furness, Kelly, Day, Guildford, Godwin and
Parker.
HALIFAX RELIEF COMMISSION CHARTER
Office of City Clerk, Halifax, N.S., April 2nd, 1918
Sir:- You are respectfully requested to attend a special meeting of City Council tomorrow
afternoon at 4 o’clock when the Halifax Relief Commission will explain the provisions of House
of Assembly Bill No. 82 entitled “An Act to Incorporate the Halifax Relief Commission.”
L. FRED. MONAGHAN, Secretary Board of Control
The Council was summoned by the following notice: The Acting Mayor explained to the Council the purpose of the Meeting.
Moved by Controller Murphy, seconded by Alderman Parker that the Council permit any
citizens present to express their views in regard to the Bill now before the meeting.
Motion passed.
Acting Mayor Colwell called upon T.S. Rogers, Chairman of the Halifax Relief
Commission to explain the provisions of the Bill.
The Council is addressed by Mr. Rogers and by J.J. Power, K.C., Rod McDonald, S.J.
Harival, Dougald MacGillivray, Charles E. Johnson, Wm. Murphy and others.
Moved by Alderman Godwin, seconded by Controller Finlay that the Honourable the
Premier of Nova Scotia be notified that it is the wish of this Council that Bill No. 82,
entitled “An Act to Incorporate the Halifax Relief Commission” be withdrawn from the
Legislature in its entirety.
Motion put and passed 8 voting for the same and 1 against it as follows: -
For the Motion
Controllers
Aldermen
Murphy
Finlay
Taylor
Foley
Day
Guildford
Godwin
Parker – 8
Against it
Aldermen Macnab – 1
VICTORIA GENERAL HOSPITAL – MAINTENANCE OF PATIENTS
Controller Murphy calls attention of the Council to House of Assembly Bill No. 92
entitled “An Act to Amend Chapter 8, acts of 1917, An Act in respect to the Victoria
General Hospital,” pointing out that the proposed bill imposes on the City liability for
care and maintenance in the Victoria General Hospital of all persons sojourning in the
City for thirty days and that the Act is to be read and construed as though it had been
enacted originally in Chapter 8, Acts of 1917, thus making the City Liable for all patients
admitted to the Hospital since 1st of October, 1917 who claim a residence in the City for
thirty days.
Referred to the Special Committee on Legislation.
Moved by Controller Finlay, seconded by Controller Murphy that the Council do now
adjourn. Motion passed.
Council adjourns 6.40 o’clock.
L. FRED. MONAGHAN, City Clerk
H.S. COLWELL,
Deputy Mayor
OTHER HEADLINES
War Risk Insurance
City Engineer Doane – Recall of
Fire Escapes
City Architect
King Edward Hotel Fire
Halifax Relief Commission
HALIFAX RELIEF COMMISSION
The City Clerk read and submitted a letter from R.E. Finn, M.P.P. re public hearing
before the House of Assembly Committee on Law Amendments on the bill now before
the Legislature, entitled “An Act to Incorporate the Halifax Relief Commission,” and
informed the Council that he had been notified by Mr. Finn that the said Committee
would hear the Members of the City Council at a meeting to be held tomorrow morning
at 11 o’clock; that later an opportunity would be given to the Trades and Labor Council
to be heard and following that a general public meeting.
Halifax, N.S., April 3rd, 1918
Dear Fred Monaghan, Esq.,
City Clerk
Dear Sir: I have the honor to inform you that Bill No. 81 entitled An Act to Incorporate the
Halifax Relief Commission was given its second reading yesterday by the Honourable the Prime
Minister, and was sent to the Committee of Law Amendments of which the Honourable Attorney
General is Chairman.
I suggested to the House at the time of the second reading that as the Bill was an important one
and one in which the citizens of Halifax were deeply interested, and as very wide powers were
asked, I thought that your Board of Control and City Council, as well as any citizens who so
desired, should be given an opportunity of appearing before the Committee. This view was
concurred in by the House and I have to inform you that a preliminary hearing will take place
tomorrow. Thursday, morning.
I am advised that a special meeting of the Council is being held this afternoon, and might I
suggest that if your Council determines to appear before the Committee that I will be very
pleased, together with my colleagues, to arrange a time that will suit the convenience of that
body. It might be well that a notice of such hearing be published in the press so that our citizens
who naturally take a deep interest in the tremendous task ahead of the commission will also be
permitted to come and express their views.
R.E. FINN
LOAN $20,000 TO PAY RELIEF BILLS
Read report Board of Control recommending that the City Treasurer be authorized to
negotiate a loan of $20,000 from the Relief Commission for the purposes of paying
Relief Accounts.
City Hall, April 25th, 1918
The City Council,
Gentlemen:- The Board of Control submit herewith for the approval of the City Council a
Resolution authorizing the City Treasurer to negotiate a loan of $20,000 from the Relief
Commission for the purposes of paying accounts incurred in defraying losses to City property
occasioned by the explosion.
L. FRED. MONAGHAN, Secretary Board of Control
The Following Resolution is Submitted: Whereas the City of Halifax has incurred expenditures for the purposes of defraying losses or
replacements occasioned to City property by the explosion of December 6th, 1917 and it is
necessary that accounts so incurred be paid.
And Whereas by an Act of the Legislature of Nova Scotia passed during the present session of
1918 the City is authorized to borrow from time to time and in such amount as are required for
that purpose a sum not exceeding $500,000.00.
Therefore Resolved that the City Treasurer by authorized to negotiate with the Halifax Relief
Commission for a loan not to exceed $20,000.00 for the payment of accounts now outstanding,
the said loan to be secured by bonds of the Halifax City Consolidated Fund Act 1905.
Moved by Controller Murphy, seconded by Controller Finlay and passed.
CLEAN UP WEEK
Read report Board of Control recommending that the City Works Department lend
assistance to the Civic Improvement League in the work of so called “Clean Up Week”
My 6th to 11th.
City Hall, April 25th, 1918
The City Council,
Gentlemen:- The Board of Control recommend that the City accede to the request of the Civic
Improvement League that the Department of City Works lend such assistance as it can to the
work in connection with the work of the so called “Clean Up Week” and that the dates be
fixed for the week from May 6th to 11th.
L. FRED. MONAGHAN, Secretary Board of Control
City Engineer’s Office, April 29th, 1918
His Worship the Mayor,
Sir:- I have made enquiries for a car for the Foreman of Streets and would recommend that a
Chevrolet roadster be purchased for him. The price in Halifax is $860, which includes complete
equipment.
H.W. JOHNSTON, Acting City Engineer
Moved by Controller Murphy, seconded by Controller Finlay that the report of the Board
of Control and the report of the Acting City Engineer dated April 29th, 1918, be
approved. Motion passed.
HILLIS & SONS LIMITED – CONCESSIONS FROM CITY
Read report Board of Control covering application from Hillis & Sons, Limited, for
certain concessions from the City in connection with the re-establishment of their Iron
Foundry business in the City.
City Hall, April 25th, 1918
The City Council,
Gentlemen:- The Board of Control beg to submit herewith for discussion and suggestion by the
City Council an application Messrs. Hillis & Sons Limited for certain concessions from the City
of Halifax in connection with the re-establishment of their foundry business in the City.
L. FRED. MONAGHAN, Secretary Board of Control
Hillis & Sons, Limited,
Halifax, N.S., April 6th, 1918
His Worship the Mayor and Board of Control
Gentlemen:- We have purchased the Withrow property on Kempt Road, and now have buildings
for a foundry, machine shop, etc., under construction. We intend employing quite a large number
of men, and getting established as quickly as possible. Owing to the severe loss we sustained
through the explosion, and the present high cost of rebuilding, as well as having to commence the
foundry business all over again, we feel we are entitled to some concession from the City, and
wish to apply for exemption from taxation and water, on land and plant, for a term of at least ten
years.
In our foundry business last year, wages amounted to $70,000.
Trusting this will have your favourable consideration at an early date, we are,
HILLIS & SONS, LTD
James Hillis
Moved by Controller Murphy, seconded by Alderman Parker that a committee be
appointed to act with the Board of Control to inquire into the subject of the application
and report to this Council. Motion passed.
The Deputy Mayor nominates as such Committee to act with the Board of Control
Aldermen Kelly, Macnab, and Guildford.
Moved by Controller Murphy, seconded by Alderman Parker that the nominations of the
Deputy Mayor be approved. Motion passed.
WATER RATES – T.L.E. PIERS – JUBILEE ROAD
Read reports Board of Control and Acting City Engineer re Water Rates, T.L.E. Piers,
Jubilee Road.
City Hall, April 25th, 1918
The City Council,
Gentlemen:- The Board of Control submit for the approval of the City Council the
accompanying report of the Acting City Engineer re water rates, T.L.E. Piers, Jubilee Road.
L. FRED. MONAGHAN, Secretary Board of Control
City Engineer’s Office, April 22nd, 1918
His Worship the Mayor,
Sir:- I beg to report on the accompanying Minute of the Board of Control covering letter form
T.L.E. Piers asking for a reduction in his water rates.
The water was extended to Mr. Piers’ house on the north side of Jubilee Road on his signing a
bond of $44.91. This included a special reduction of $10.00 made by the City Council. The bonds
are revised every year and the rates reduced as new houses are supplied from the pipe. Mr. Piers
claims a reduction owing to the extension of the main pipe in Rosebank Avenue which tapped the
Jubilee Road main.
I do not see that this has any bearing on the matter of Mr. Piers’ rates. The water could have been
supplied to Rosebank directly from Connaught Avenue, but as a matter of economy it was
extended from the Jubilee Road main and as Mr. Piers has already obtained special concessions in
the above mentioned reduction from the original bond, I cannot recommend the granting of this
request.
H.W. JOHNSTON, Acting City Engineer
Moved by Controller Murphy, seconded by Controller Finlay that the same be adopted.
Motion passed.
Index 1917-18
Committees - (Continued)
Relief Advisory Committee, see
Explosion
Common
Common lots
Companies Entitled to Vote
Conservation of Food
Construction Account, see Accounts
Contracts, see Tenders
Controllers - see plebicites
Abolition of Office, 503
Building Laws, 314, 357
List of, 3
Recount of votes, 8
Sworn into office, 5
Conventions
Union of Nova Scotia Municipalities
191
"Win the War,"44
Cook Construction Company
County and City Boundry Line
Court House
Cragg Bros, 86
Daylight Saving
Deaths
Firemen, see Fire Department
Grant, Edward, 54
Helford, Arthur, 54
McDonald, George A., 424
Quigley, John, 249
Smith, William A, 54
Debentures
Debt
Delegations Address Council
Deputy Mayor, 37
Doane FWW, see Engineer
Dominion Government
Donovan, James M
Drive to the Right
Duggan, William, 189
Early Closing of Shops
Egan, Mrs. Bessie
Elections
Electrical Supplies
Electrician
Electric Lighting
Engineer, City
Doanne, FWW, recall of 365,
455, 493
Estimates
Exemption from Taxes
Exhibitions
Provincial, 207, 251, 350
Explosion,
Rehabilitation, 350
Rentals, 364
Temporary Dwellings, 373
Explosion
Acadien School, 344
Accounts, 428
Acquiring Devastated Area, 286, 305
Area Devastated, 286, 305, 330
Burial of Dead, 282
Cavicchi & Pagano, 330
Cemetery Lots, 283
Chain Lakes, Housing for Soldiers, 355
Chief Fire Department, 284
Committees, 271, 276, 282, 336, 428
December 6th, 1917, 269
Devastated Area, 286, 305, 330
Dominion Election, 279
Election, Dominion, 279
Electrical Wiring Inspection, 357
Exhibition, Provincial, 350, 364
Fire Department, District Chief, 284
Fire Engine, "Patricia" 285, 335, 427, 428
Fire Engine, Hire of, 326
Fire Engines, 285, 326, 335, 427, 428
Explosion (Continued)
Fire Ladder, Sale of, 329
Firemen Killed, 284, 306, 346,
378, 440
Fire Protection, 427, 428
Gratuities for Dependents of Firemen,
306, 346, 378, 440
Hillis & Sons Ltd, 516
Incinerator Lots, 330, 427
Investigations, 331, 333
Isolation Hospital, 342, 409, 410,
415, 416, 456
Liquours, Theft of at City Hall, 333
Loans, 428, 455, 510
Massachusetts Motor Trucks, 333
Military Guards, 284
Mortuary Officer, 282
Pritchard, John, 353
Public Meetings, 269, 273, 275, 301
Railway Transportation, 286
Rehabilitation, 301
Relief Advisory Committee, 429
Relief Commission, 336, 469, 472
Religious Services, 307
Reparation, 330
Resolution of Sympathy, 281
Safety of Shipping, 313
School Buildings, 327
School Janitor Killed, 353
Street Railway Service, 321
Sympathy, Resolution of, 281
Telephone Service, 323
Temporary Shelters, 274, 279,
324, 373, 427
Fire Protection of, 373
Thanks fo Assistance, 282
Town Planning, 286, 305
Transportation, Railway, 286
Expropriations
Fares Street Railway
Feeble Minded Children
Fenerty, EL
Ferries and Public Landings
Finn, Robert E., 472
Fire Department
Accounts
American LaFrance Fire Engine Co,
58, 68, 87, 145, 159, 163, 285, 287,
326, 335, 427, 428, 519
Amity Union Engine Co and Veteren's Fire
Association, 120, 483
Annual Report, 203
Fire Department (Continued)
Apparatus Damaged by Tram Car
Appropriation, Expnditure of, 514
Assistance, Offer of, 120
Assistant Chief, Appointment of, 172
Board of Fire Underwriters, 53
Broderick, Mrs PJ, 172
Chief Fire Department
Annual Report, 203
Appointment of, 284, 308
Confidence in, 483
Motor Car, 84
Salary, 348
Clothing, 75, 192
Deaths from Fire, see Explosio
Grant, Edward, 54
Helford, Arthur 54
Smith, William, 54
District Chief, Appointment of,
172, 284
Electric Wiring Inspection, 346
Engines, 255, 326
Equipment, 428, 514
Explosion Loans, 455
Explosion, Temporary Shelters,
373, 427
Fire Alarm Systems, 495
Fire Escapes, 210, 373, 498
Apartment Houses, 148
Theatres, 141
Firemen
Appointments of, 54, 75,
172, 173, 206, 256, 284
Call Force Disbanded,
368, 398
Egan, John, 47
Illness of 47, 256, 319
Injured, 76, 319
Insurance of, 319
Medical Attendance on, 47
Overseas, 304
Registrations, 54, 206,
256, 319
Superannuations, 174,
319, 384, 426, 444
Fire Protection, North End of City, 427
Fire Prevention, 486
Fires and their Causes and Losses, 53, 75
172, 173, 206, 256, 257, 318, 345, 422
Fire Stations,
Central, 94, 203
Gerrish Street, 255, 373, 398
Incinerator Lot, 427