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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes City Council - 06/24/1875 217 Called Meeting of the City Council June 29th 1875, Present: Nelson Plato, Mayor; Aldermen Hirsch, Rogers, Downing, Evans, Hoffman, & Reid. City Marshal, P. Whelan. Absent: Doddridge, Baldeschwiler, & Berry. His Honor, The Mayor stated that the meeting had been called for the purpose of electing a Health Officer at Aransas Pass. A communication from John L. Lewis was read and on motion received and laid on the table subject to call. Also one from Dr H. A. Lewis was read and on motion laid on the table subject to call. It was then moved and carried that the Council at once proceed to the election of Health Officer at Aransas Pass. Nominations being in order, Dr H. A. Lewis was nominated. John L. Lewis was also put in nomination, after which the Board proceeded to the election of Health Officer at Aransas Pass by ballot, with the following result: Dr H. A. Lewis received six votes and all that was cast. Dr H. A. Lewis was then declared duly elected. The salary of the Health Officer was on motion fixed at $20000 per month, and $5000 per month additional was allowed for boat for boarding vessels. His Hon. the Mayor then produced a letter dated December 22d 1874, from A. W. DeBerry to Wm Headen Esqr., Chairman of the Finance Committee of the Old Board, relating to claims of Dr John L Lewis as Health Officer at Aransas Pass for last year. When it was moved and carried that the Mayor be authorized to collect the amount due the City of Corpus Christi from the State of Texas, for Salary paid Health Officer in 1874, or authorize C. R. Johns & Co., of Austin, to demand and receive the same on be- half of the City. Council then on motion adjourned. Attest Nelson Plato R. J. Denny, Secretary; Mayor adopted 218 Regular Meeting of the City Council July 6th 1875 Present: N. Plato, Mayor; Aldermen Hirsch Downing, Reid Hoffman, Baldeschwiler, & Berry, City Marshal P. Whelan Absent: Doddridge, Rogers & Evans His Hon. the Mayor suggested that on account of a meeting of the Fire Co he thought it advisable to adjourn this Regular Meeting until next Thursday evening at 8 O Clock, when it was moved and carried that the Council now adjourn its Regular meeting to Thursday evening next at 8 O clock Attest Nelson Plato R. J. Denny Sec. Mayor adopted Adjourned Regular Meeting of the City Council July 8th 1875 Present: N. Plato, Mayor; Aldermen; Downing, Evans, Baldeschwiler, Reid; Hirsch, Berry, and Hoffman; City Marshal P. Whelan Absent: Doddridge & Rogers The minutes of the last two regular and subsequent called meetings were read and approved. A communication from the Chief Engineer of the Fire Department was then read and on motion received. A communication from R Hollub was read and on motion received. Also one from Capt Jack Sands. An Ordinance defining the duties of Officers of the City in relation to finances was then read and adopted. An Ordinance to provide for the appointment of a City Engineer and Surveyor, and defining his duties, was then read, and adopted Section by Section. The report of P. Whelan City Assessor and Collector, was then read, and on motion referred to the Finance Committee. The Report of the Mayor was also read, & referred to the Finance Committee. A Bill of Dr D H Lawrance, for twenty two Dollars (2200) was then read, and on motion laid on the table. A Bill of J. B. Mitchell for $1215/100 was then read and ordered paid. Bills were then presented from H. W. Berry, M. R. Polk, John S. Lynch, and Richard Power, for services as Judges and Clerks at the election held at 219 Market Hall, May 3d 1875, for the election of City officers, and the sum of Five Dollars to each of the above named parties was allowed and ordered paid. A communication from the City Secretary was then read, and on motion received. The following resolution was then offered and adopted: Resolved, That the Mayor and City Secretary be authorized to issue two warrants to John R. Peterson, former City Treasurer, for $4800 and $2200 respectively, to be dated December 31st, 1874, and to be considered as on the same footing with the scrip issued by the late City Government; said warrants to be exchanged for one now held by John R. Peterson. being dated 31st of December, 1874, and on which he paid P. Whelan, formerly City Marshal $4800, in order to enable said Peterson to settle his accounts with the City. It was then upon motion duly carried, Resolved, that the City Marshal have the Bell on the Market Hall rung daily Except Sundays, at 7, a. m. 12, m. 1, P. M. and 6, P. M. O,clock. His Honor the Mayor then stated that Dr Lewis had assumed the duties of Quarantine Officer at Aransas Pass commencing on the 28th day of June. The communication offered by the Secretary was then called up, when on motion, duly carried, it was Resolved, That the Secretary’s Salary be increased to Four hundred Dollars per annum instead of Two Hundred for the current year. Amended to read as follows; “And his pay to begin from the time of his election as City Secretary by the present Board of Aldermen.” which amendment was seconded and carried. It was then on motion duly carried Resolved, That the regular meetings of the City Council shall hereafter take place on the first and third Thursdays in each month, instead of first and third Tuesdays as heretofore. Aldermen Hirsch asked leave of absence for two months, which on motion was granted. The City Marshal asked leave to hold sufficient money in hand from dog tax in order to pay necessary labor for cleaning the streets as they may require it; which permission was granted him on his making monthly reports as to the amounts collected and expended. It was then moved and carried that the matter relating to the poor be referred to the Ordinance Committee. The Council then on motion adjourned. Nelson Plato Attest; R. J. Denny Sec. Mayor. 220 An Ordinance Section 1. Be it ordained by the Mayor and board defining the duties of Aldermen in Council convened, That it shall be the of Officers of the City duty of the Marshal to pay to the City Treasury all monies in relation to Finance collected by him at least once every week, taking his receipt therefor, and at the first meeting of the Council in each month he shall make a full statement in writing of all monies collected by him. Sec 2. It shall be the duty of the Treasurer to make a statement in writing at the first meeting in each month of all monies collected for each seperate fund, and also a statement of disbursments. Sec 3. It Shall be the duty of the Mayor to make a full statement in writing at the first meeting in each month of all monies collected by him during the preceding month, and to turn over to the Treasurer at the close of each month all moneys received by him belonging to the City. Sec 4. It shall be the duty of the Secretary to receive and file the foregoing reports as records of the City, and furnish a copy of each such reports with the minutes of the meeting at which they are presented, to the official newspaper of the City for publication. Attest Nelson Plato R. J. Denny, Secretary. Mayor An Ordinance to provide for the appointment of a City Engineer & Survey -or and defining his duties. Section 1. Be it ordained by the City Council of the City of Corpus Christi That the Mayor shall annually nominate and appoint, sub- ject to confirmation by a majority of the City Council, a City Engineer and Surveyor, who shall be a professional Engineer of experience, practical and familiar with the use of the Compass, transit, level and theodolite, and shall possess the necessary instruments for the use of his office. Before entering upon his duties he shall take and subscribe and file with the clerk the oath of office required, and that to the best of his skill and ability, without fear of favor, he will impartially, well, and truly, discharge and perform the duties of his office prescribed by this ordinance, and all such as may be imposed upon him by the Council, not incompatible with such office; and he shall give bond with proper sureties in 221 the sum of $1000.00, to be approved by the Council, conditioned that he faithfully, correctly, efficiently, and without fear or favor, discharge and perform the duties of said office, and whenever called upon by the Street committee, with the approval of a majority of the Board it shall be his duty to perform the services as hereinafter provided. Sec. 2. To ascertain suggest and report a proper system and plan for the most perfect and prompt drainage of the City, and with it to present full specifications and estimates for the necessary work, taking into consideration the financial ability of the City to pay for the same; and for such purpose he shall ascertain and report for adoption by the Council the proper grade or grades; He shall at least on alternate Streets through the City run a sufficient set of levels and project the same on proper level paper, at uniform scale; shall establish bench marks at all intersections, checking upon them until they agree. Shall also establish two or more bench marks at mean high tide, for referance of his datum line for all levels, to be registered in the proper Record book, and numbered with the number of the Block upon which such bench marks are made. In giving the grade of a lot or block he shall mark the grades on or near the corner stake or post, in such manner that the referance may be had easily without their displacement. Whenever called upon he shall make all surveys plans, estimates and reports and shall designate and point out all grades and levels necessary for drainage, construction or improvement of lots, blocks, streets, and sidewalks, gutters, culverts, sewers, etc;, and to show the proper height, elevation or depression of the same. Sec. 3. To ascertain and permanently re-establish the monuments or initial points of the original survey of the City and of the extension thereof, made under direction of and for Col. H. L. Kinney, according to plans and field notes extant upon the records of Nueces County. From these original initial points all other Surveys within the city limits shall be extended; and from them only he shall determine upon, establish and survey every lot or block of lots, and all streets or public squares within the corporate limits of the city, whenever called on or required to act, either by the Council or property holders or claimants. Sec. 4. To ascertain designate and mark in a permanent manner the limits and bounds of the city, according to those fixed by the late Charter, Section 2. title 1, to wit., Commencing at a point one mile due north from the present Court House of Nueces County; thence west one and a half miles; thence South three miles, thence east three miles; thence north three miles; thence west to the place of beginning. The corners shall be 222 distinctly shown by monuments, of either mesquite posts or heavy Cypress timber, in which at least five feet above the ground, or sea, on the corporation side, there shall be cut or branded according to facts, either N. E., S. E., S. W., N. W., with the letters C. C. to designate the corner, Every line shall be made and kept plainly visible; and if any chapparal intervene and obstruct the same, the same obstruc- tions shall be removed. At every quarter of a mile from the N. W. and S. W. corners a heavy mesquite post shall be solidly placed in the ground until reaching the shore, where at ordinary high and ordinary low water mark a similar post shall be similarly placed. All boundary posts shall be at least five feet above the ground or water, be kept in their respective places and be marked with the letters C C on the inside. Sec. 5. When any improvement or work is contemplated by the City, whether in conjunction with the property holder or otherwise, it shall be the duty of the Engineer, as soon as practicable, to make proper plans, specifications, and estimate of the cost of the same, In case of improvement of a street he shall apportion and assess two thirds of the estimated cost thereof on the lot, lots or blocks immediately adjoining and being on each side of said street or Streets, not counting any intersection, the cost of which latter, as well as one third of the estimated cost of the street between intersections shall be assessed to the City. In case of grading, raising, drainage or improvement of any lots or lots, block or blocks, constructing or repairing sidewalks, curbing, guttering, lamp posts, and lamps, the Engineer shall also prepare and submit to the Council plans specifications and estimates of costs of the contemplated work and shall apportion and assess the costs equitably and proportionally against the lot, lots, block or blocks about to receive the benefit of such work or improvement. He shall in every case prepare duplicate lists or assessment rolls of the assessments by him made in the premises, showing the number of each lot or block against which assessment is made, owners or claimants name, if known, and that of occupant if any, otherwise stating the owner to be unknown. The specifications shall show how the work is to be executed, quantity or amount thereof, material to be used quality and kind; also time within which to complete the same. Sec. 6. He shall supervise and superintend all public work, and where the same is not done by contract, shall see that a correct time table be kept, and that honest pay rolls be kept. He shall direct all grading and draining shall superintend the construction of sidewalks, bridges, 223 culverts, gutters, sewers, dams, breakwaters or sea walls, and see to their being kept in proper repair at all times. He shall supervise all contractors and their work. He shall be subject to control by the Committee on Streets, and shall from time to time report to the Council the condition and progress of all work in hand, and when requested or when in his opinion necessary, shall submit in writing such suggestions and plans in regard to improvements and public work as may be of interest and benefit to the city. Sec. 7. He is exclusively vested with power and authority to make valid surveys or re surveys of any lot, lots, block or blocks, or of any fractional part thereof, and to permanently fix and determine the corners and lines thereof when called upon by the owner or owners or any claimant or the same, and to furnish plot and field notes of any such survey or surveys; always however strictly conforming to the City plan on file in the Office of the District Clerk of Nueces County. He shall measure from the nearest reestablished initial point, and shall demand and receive from the party who requested the work pay at the rate of three Dollars per lot or every fractional part of a lot. Sec. 8. He shall procure for his office and use, as property of the city, two suitable Record Books, one to be used for the record and illus- tration by suitable drawings, of all suitable city work contem- plated to be done, or done by him, pertaining to grades, streets, sidewalks, drains, ditches, sewers, public squares, walls, dams, water tanks, sea walls, break waters, the Harbor or otherwise. The other record book to be used for recording all private work and surveys and shall have full control and custody of and be responsible for all record books, drawings, plans, maps, stationary and all other property in any manner pertaining to the city; shall receipt for them by inventory to be filed with the City Clerk, and on vacating his office shall account for and turn them over to the Mayor or his successor. All such property and articles shall be kept in the office of the Mayor. Sec. 9. He shall also for and at the expense of the City, on the Market Square, establish a true median, by a substan- tial Monument, to be by him erected, and all instruments to be used by him in surveying shall first be adjusted by said meridian. Sec. 10. He shall keep an account for corporation work. and before action upon or payment of the same by the Council or any committee all such accounts must first be duly certified and audited by him as City Engineer & Surveyor. 224 Sec. 11. The payment for all work done by the City Engineer and Sur- veyor for account of the public whether by virtue of any order of the City Council, or under the provisions of this Ordinance shall be contingent and provided for as follows; He shall be paid for work performed at the rate of Eight Dollars per diem, or by the job as per contract with the Street Com- mittee and approved by the Board. Actual expenses incurred by him in the employment of rodmen, chain carriers and labor employed in prosecuting work shall be reimbursed to him from month to month on his detailed account or pay roll, by him duly sworn to. Sec. 12. He shall see that before any building or improvement in the way of fences, sheds, houses, stores, stables or otherwise, be under taken and proceeded with by the owner, lessee, claimant or occupant of any lot fractional lot or block, upon the same, that the corners and lines of such lot or block are correctly established and plainly visible, and that such lot or block is filled to its proper grade. In case of default he shall notify the owner, lessee, claimant, or occupant of such fact, and that compliance with existing ordinances in this respect must be had within twenty days after such no- tice, and in the meantime the contemplated building to cease; and if after such notice and expiration, default still exists, the Engineer shall make formal complaint thereof before the Mayor. Approved July 8th 1875 Nelson Plato Attest Mayor R. J. Denny Secretary Regular Meeting of the City Council July 15th 1875 Present: N. Plato, Mayor; Aldermen: P. Hoffman, De. Hirsch, City Marshal P Whelan Absent: P. Doddridge, W. Rogers, R. W. Berry, P. Baldeschwiler D. Reid, J. Downing, Geo.. F. Evans. No Quorum Present Attest R. J. Deny Sec. Nelson Plato Mayor 225 At a Special meeting of the City Council assembled 5 O clock P. M. July 21st 1875, Present: The Mayor, Aldermen, Hoffman Rogers, Evans, Downing and Reid, it was unanimously Resolved, That the invitation of the Star Rifles to attend the ceremony of their flag presentation this afternoon, and the promenade concert this evening, be accepted, and that we proceed as a body to attend same. Whereupon the Council adjourned and proceeded to City Hall at once to witness the presentation of the flag from the ladies of Corpus Christi Nelson Plato Attest Mayor Jas.. D. Sec. Pro. Tem. Regular Meeting of the City Council August 5th 1875 Present: – Nelson Plato, Mayor; Aldermen, Hoffman Downing, Rogers, Baldeschwiler, and Reid; City Marshal P. Whelan. There being no Quorum the Council adjourned its regular meeting to Friday (Tomorrow) afternoon at 4 O,clock – Adjourned Meeting Friday August 6th 4 O.clock P. M. Council met pursuant to adjournment. Present: – N. Plato, Mayor; Aldermen Hoffman, Rogers, Reid, Downing Evans and Baldeschwiler; City Marshal P. Whelan. Absent: Berry, Doddridge & Hirsch The Minutes of the last regular and subsequent called meetings were read and adopted. A communication from U. Lott, President of the C. C. San Diego & R. G. R. R. Co. in regard to the condition of Chapparal Street and bridge was read and on Motion referred to Street Committee. His Hon. the Mayor presented two letters from Messers C. R. Johns & Co. of Austin, which were read and filed. The Mayor, Assessor & Collector, and Treasurer, presented their monthly reports, which were severally read and referred to the Finance Committee. The Assessor and Collector submitted two delinquent lists, one ending March 31st 1875 and the other ending 226 Septr 30th 1875, which on motion were laid over to the next regular meeting. The report of Messers Doddridge & Davis agents of Morris & Cum mings, was then presented, and on motion referred to the Finance Committee. A Bill of $3.42 Coin, for freight on box for fire Engine, was received and ordered paid from the R. E. fund. The account of E. B. Leonard for work on fire well amounting to $1.10 was received and ordered paid out of F. E. fund. An account of Wm Moore amounting to $1225/100 Dollars for board of City prisoners, was then read and referred to the Finance Committee. His Hon. the Mayor then stated that the rent of the building used as City Prison, and for which Alderman Hoffman was agent had not been paid, when on motion duly carried it was ordered that Mr Hoffman be paid for said building at the rate of $900 per Month commencing on the 1st of July 1875. The following Resolution was then offered and adopted to wit; Resolved, That the Collector and Treasurer be authorized to receive City dues and taxes in Coin or Currency, allowing a premium of 8% on all Coin paid in, this to continue in effect until changed. An account of Drs Spohn & Burke for $1500 was read and on motion laid on the Table. It was then moved and carried that the Mayor appoint Two Aldermen to serve temporarily on the Finance Committee, in place of Messers Doddridge & Hirsch now absent; whereupon the Mayor appointed Messers Hoffman and Downing. It was then moved and carried that the Treasurer be authorized to act in conjunction with the Finance Committee. The committee to whom was referred the commu- nication of the President of the Central Wharf and Warehouse Co. reported adversely on the same, when on motion the report was adopted. The Treasurer then made a statement in regard to paying off the indebtedness of the City. When it was moved and carried that the Finance Committee be instructed to recommend the ways and means to pay the present indebtedness of the City, outstanding in warrants, and how best the said debt may be liquidated. It was then Resolved, that the street Committee be instructed to consult with the Chief Engineer of the 227 Fire Department and report a plan at the next regular meeting for building the proper platforms and wells necessary for the effective use of the Steam Fire Engine, with estimates and costs. It was then on motion carried; that Capt Jack Sands be allowed Ten Dollars per Month for ringing the Bell, and his pay to begin from July 1st 1875. amended by substituting August 1st, which amendment was carried, and the motion with the amendment was then put and carried. The City tax Rolls for 1875 were then submitted and referred to the Finance Committee for examination. It was then moved and carried that the City Marshall make a rebate of $2500 each on the tax of Livery Stables for the Current Year. The Council then, on motion adjourned. Attest: J. J. Denny Sec. Nelson Plato Mayor Regular Meeting of the City Council August 19th 1875 Present: N. Plato, Mayor, Aldermen Downing, Hoffman, Berry, Baldeschwiler & Reid; City Marshal P. Whelan, and City Treasurer J. B. Mitchell Absent: Rogers, Evans, Doddridge & Hirsch The Minutes of last regular meeting were read and adopted. A communication from W. B. Chapman in regard to assessment of property was read, and one from E. D. Sidbury & Co. in relation to the condition of Broadway and some suggested improvements. This latter communication was referred to the Street Committee. The Finance Committee reported the Assessment Rolls correct and on motion the report was adopted. As said report covered the case of W. B. Chapman, no action was deemed necessary in regard to his communication referred to above. The Finance Committee reported the following reports and accounts correct. An Acct of Wm Moore for $1225/100 Twelve and ¼ Dollars The report of the Ship Channel Company for the Quarter ending June 30th 1875; The Mayors Reports for the Months of June & July; the Treasurers reports for June & July, when on motion the above accounts and reports were severally adopted and allowed. The Finance Committee 228 then submitted a report as to the condition of the City finances, which on motion was ordered received and ordered filed subject to call. The following resolutions were then offered, and on motion received and adopted. Resolved, That the Secretary be instructed to call upon the present Mayor, N. Plato, and also upon the former Mayor P. Doddridge, for all City warrants deposited in their hands, for which they have given the City’s receipt and obligation, as by law and ordinance exacted for bonding the same; that the Secretary then make a full and complete list of all the warrants he receives under this resolution, and deposit the same with the City Treasurer taking from the Treasurer his receipt, which shall express the number and date of each warrant, and to whom issued and by whom turned over to the City for bonding, and that the Secretary shall place said receipt on record. Resolved, That the Treasurer be and he is hereby instructed to Call upon the Central Wharf & Ware House Company on the 1st of September next, for the payment of such sum as may be due the City upon adjustment of the past years business, and 20% of the gross earnings of said Company for the past year, it being the amount due the City for the year beginning on the 1st day of September, as per contract between the City and said Wharf Company, and that the Treasurer is hereby authorized to receive and receipt for the same in behalf of the City. The Treasurer then reported that the Contract and Bond with the Wharf Company had never been recorded, and that he had taken the responsibility of having it placed upon Record, and asked that the Council sanction said action and order a warrant issued to defray the expense of recording the same, when on motion the action of the Treasurer was approved and it was ordered that a Warrant issue to him for the amount incurred in having said contract and Bond Recorded. A Resolution relating to public schools was introduced and on motion laid over to next regular meeting. Action on the two delinquent Tax lists was laid over to the next regular meeting. An informal Warrant of W. B. Chapman for $500 issued by the former City Council, was read and on motion referred to the Finance Committee. Also two informal Warrants of Jos. Garcia, deceased, issued by the former City Council, one for $1640/100 Coin. and the other for $430/100 Currency, were read and referred to the Finance Committee. 229 His Hon. the Mayor then stated that having heard a report that two vessels were in over Corpus Christi Pass, he had incurred the expense of sending down there, and asked the Council to defray the expense of the Official trip, when it was on motion ordered that a warrant be issued to defray said expense to Corpus Christi Pass. The question of Quarantine was brought up when it was moved and carried that the Mayor be instructed to authorize the Health Officer to Quarantine all vessels from Havana or other infected ports, and to communicate with any points by Telegraph when ever he may deem it necessary to procure information. It was then moved and carried that the matter regarding the amendment of the Ordinance for bonding the City debt be referred to the Ordinance Committee to report at the next regular meeting. A Resolution relating to the old Kinney house on the bluff, was then offered and on motion referred to the Committee on Streets. The Council then on motion adjourned this regular meeting to Saturday evening next at 8 O clock P. M. Attest R. J. Denny Nelson Plato Secretary Mayor Adjourned Regular Meeting of the City Council Saturday evening August 21st 1875. Present: N. Plato, Mayor, Aldermen - Reid, Hoffman and Downing; City Marshal P. Whelan. There being no Quorum the Council adjourned to Monday, evening August 23d, at 4 O’clock P. M. Monday August 23d, Council met pursuant to adjourn- ment. Present: Aldermen – Hoffman, Downing, Evans, Baldeschwiler, and Reid; City Marshal, P. Whelan, and City Treasurer J. B. Mitchell. Absent: Berry, Hirsch, Rogers, and Doddridge. A communication relating to the old Kinney house on the bluff, and complaining of the same as a nuisance, signed by the property owners in its vicinity was read, and on motion referred to the committee on streets. A communication from Jno S. Givens, Esqr, relating to the same was also read, and referred to the Street 230 committee. The following preamble and Resolutions were then offered, read and adopted. Whereas, in considering the present emergency of the public health, and the City Council having fully in view the extraordinary necessity of all possible and proper precautions against Yellow Fever or other epidem- ic diseases, therefore, Resolved, That a special Committee of Three be at once appointed on City quarantine, with instructions to inquire into what necessity exists, if any, for establishing a peremptory quarantine against places which may be hereafter designated as liable to become epidemic with Yellow Fever, and that said committee confer with the merchants and business men of the City immediately regarding the same, and ascertain as far as practicable the sense of the people of Corpus Christi in this respect, with power to call a meeting of the citizens for action in conjunction with the City Council at their next regular meeting: Resolved, That a board of Health of Corpus Christi is hereby constituted to be organized for duty forthwith, and to consist of N. Plato, Mayor; Geo. F. Evans; James Downing, J. B. Mitchell, and Dr T. S. Burke. That said board of health is hereby empowered to prescribe and enforce through the City Marshal such rules and regulations relating to the sanitary condition and government of the City as they may deem proper. It was then moved and carried that the Mayor appoint the Special committee of three as recommended in the first resolution. Whereupon the Mayor appointed Messers Evans, Downing, and Reid. The Ordinance Committee then recommended that the last clause of Section 3. of an ordinance authorizing issuance of bonds to pay and absorb the floating debt of the City, approved June 1st 1875 be amended to read as follows; “Provided all such bonds shall be issued in sums of not less than $5.00 nor more than $500.00 which was on motion adopted. It was then Resolved, That the house known as the Kinney house being situated on Lots Nos One and Two in Block N0 (1) One, - on the Bluff in this City, be and is hereby declared a nuisance and dangerous to the health and safety of the people of this community, and the owner or owners thereof are hereby notified to abate the same within ten days from the publication of this reso- lution, and that the City Secretary be instructed to serve the owner or owners of the property with a certified copy hereof; which resolution was adopted. It was then moved and carried 231 that authority be given to the Ordinance Committee to have the bonds for funding the City debt printed at the Gazette office. The Council then on motion adjourned this regular meeting to 6 O’clock Tuesday afternoon Aug 24th 1875 Attest Nelson Plato R. J. Denny Mayor. Sec Tuesday Aug 24th 6 O’clock P. M. Council met pursuant to adjournment. Present: N. Plato, Mayor; Aldermen – Downing, Berry Baldeschwiler, Hoffman, Evans, and Reid; City Marshal P. Whelan. Absent: Hirsch, Doddridge, & Rogers. A communication from the City Treasurer relating to warrants issued to Lone Star Hook and Ladder Co. was read and on motion referred to Finance Committee. The three informal warrants issued by the former board of Aldermen, one to W. B. Chapman, and Two to Jos, Garcia, deceased, were approved by the Finance Committee, and on motion it was resolved that they be attested by the Secretary and approved by the Mayor: A list of the names of the Citizens for and against Quarantine was then read over, with the following result: For Quarantine Thirty eight: Against quarantine Fifty nine. The resolution under which the above committee had been acting was then read, after which the Committee reported unani- mously that in consideration of the greater number of Citizens being opposed to Quarantine, they would recommend that no peremptory Quarantine be estab- lished at this time. On motion the report was received and adopted, and the Committee discharged. It was then moved and carried that the Ordinance Committee be instructed to prepare a suitable Ordinance in relation to the improvement of the Side walks of the City, and report the same at the next regular meeting. On Motion the Council then adjourned. Attest R. J. Denny Nelson Plato Sec. Mayor. 232 Special Meeting of the City Council August 28th 1875 Present: N. Plato, Mayor, Aldermen Rogers, Berry, Reid, Evans, Baldeschwiler, Downing, City Marshal P. Whelan -. Absent: Hirsch, Doddridge & Hoffman. Alderman Downing was appointed Secretary Pro tem The Mayor then stated the object of the meeting, viz: to consider and act upon Quarantine matters. After the reading of a letter from Dr H. A. Lewis, Health Officer at Aransas Pass, addressed to the Mayor, and having his personal explanations, statements and views concerning Quarantine, the following preamble and resolutions were adopted. Whereas, Differences of opinion exist between the City Council of Corpus Christi and Dr H. A. Lewis, Health Officer at Aransas Pass, with respect to his dutys. Resolved, That we hereby declare our determination to pro- tect the public health by all means in our power, and to the best of our ability, under the state laws, and procla- mation of the Governor of Texas. Resolved, That we hold all orders and instructions issued from the Corporate Authorities of the City of Corpus Christi, to Dr H. A. Lewis, Health Officer at Aransas Pass, as paramount to all conflicting authority or dis- cretion which might seem vested in said officer by virtue of his construction of the Laws and the Governors proclamation regulating Quarantine at Aransas Pass. It was then moved and unanimously carried, that the orders issued by the Mayor to the Health officer of Aransas Pass be approved. The Council then on motion adjourned. Attest Nelson Plato Mayor Pro. Tem. Regular Meeting of the City Council Septr 2d 1875. Present: N. Plato, Mayor; Aldermen – Evans Rogers, Downing, Hoffman and City Treasurer J. B. Mitchell. Absent: - Doddridge, Hirsch, & Berry, The Minutes of the last regular and subsequent called meetings were read and adopted. A Petition from Messers E. Buckley, T. [Condon], and 233 and W. S. McGregor, relative to putting in a Sewer from Chapparal Street through to Mann Street and leading to the bay, was read and on motion received, and the work author- ized to be proceeded with, under the Superintendance of the City Engineer & Surveyor. Several letters from Dr H. A. Lewis health officer at Aransas pass, were then presented, the latest of which was read, and the remainder were, on motion, ordered filed without reading, as their contents had been stated & examined at a previous meeting. The proceedings of the City Council of Rockport August 28th were read, and several telegrams from his Excellency Gov. Coke, to the Hon. Mayor when it was on motion, Resolved, That Dr H. A. Lewis, Health Officer at Aransas Pass appointed by this Council by virtue of the Governors quarantine proclamation, be and is hereby dismissed for neglect of duty and malfeasance in office; this dismissal to take effect from and after the passage of this resolution. which was unanimously adopted. On motion the rules were suspended and the Board proceeded to the election of a Health Officer at Aransas Pass to fill the vacancy caused by the removal of Dr Lewis. Dr A Ansell was put in nomination and unanimously elected. It was then moved and carried that His Hon. the Mayor, proceed with Dr Ansell to Aransas Pass, and see him regularly installed. The Mayor then retired, and the Aldermen resolved themselves into a committee of the whole for the purpose of selecting a Mayor Pro Tem, to serve during the temporary absence of Col Plato. Alderman P. Hoffman was put in nomination and elected Mayor pro tem, - to serve during said absence. The Mayor then returned. The Finance Committee reported back recommen ding that the Warrants issued to Lone Star Hook & Ladder Co. for erecting a building for said Com- pany’s benefit be cancelled and rendered void, which was received and adopted. The report of the Assessor and Collector for the Month of August on the Occupation tax was received and referred to the Finance Committee. The Treasurer made some suggestions with regard to receiving city Scrip for taxes, and also stated the action taken by the Board of Health in relation to filling up bad places in the Streets, when it was 234 on motion duly carried, that the action of the Board of Health be approved. The Ordinance Committee asked further time to prepare an ordinance relating to the improvement of the sidewalks, which on motion was granted. It was then moved and carried, that the suggestions made by the Treasurer with regard to receiving City scrip for Ad Valorem taxes be laid open for action to the next regular meeting. The following Bills and accounts were then pre- sented, read, and disposed of as follows. Two for Telegraphing, one of $1325/100 and another of $125/100 currency; another for $1075/100 Coin for boat and Groceries on trip to Aransas Pass; One of McKenzie & Rankin for $600 Coin; One of Stationary for City Secretary $400 Coin; One to Alderman Evans $300 Coin, and one to Corpus Christi Gasette for $1500 Coin Received and ordered paid. Two bills of Dr H. A. Lewis for services as Health Officer at Aransas Pass One from June 28th to July 28th of $25000 and the other from July 28th to August 28th of $25000 sent up for approval by this Board of Aldermen, were on motion laid on the table. The bills of the Valley Times, amounting to $8386/100 ; the bill of Corpus Christi Gasette for $17652/100 and an informal warrant of C. Cahill for $500 issued by the former Board of Aldermen, were read and on motion refer- red to Finance Committee. It was then on motion carried that the time for receiving City Scrip and issuing Bonds for the same, in compliance with an Ordinance passed June 1st 1875 and Amended August 23d, be and is hereby extended to the 1st day of October 1875. The public School question was then brought up, and after statements made by the City Treasurer and the Mayor in regard to the same, it was, Resolved, That in accordance with an act of the Legislature, approved March 15th 1875, To authorize the Cities of Texas to maintain Public Schools,” this City assumes control of the Public Schools within its incorporated limits from this date. be it further Resolved, that the Secretary is hereby instructed to forward a copy of this resolution to the Superintendant of Public Instruction at Austin, and the Superintendant of Nueces County. and that the present Board of School Trustees by and are hereby appointed the Committee on School Affairs, their action being subject to the approval of this Council. 235 The Ayes and Noes being called for, and there being six votes for and none against it, the resolution was declared adopted. It was then moved and carried, that the Committee having charge of the Public Schools be and are hereby instructed to draw up an Ordinance regulating School Affairs, and for the protection of the public School property and Buildings. It was then moved and carried that the committee to whom was referred the matter of the Old Kinney House” on the Bluff be granted further time to make their report. The Council on motion adjourned. Attest R. J. Denny Secretary Nelson Plato Mayor Regular Meeting of the City Council, Thursday Septr 16th 1875. On account of the inclemency of the weather, by order of the Mayor, this regular meeting was adjourned until Saturday Evening 18th Inst. Saturday Evening, Septr 18th 1875. Present: - N. Plato, Mayor, Aldermen - Rogers, Reid, Baldeschwiler and Downing, There being no Quorum the regular meeting was adjour- ned to Monday afternoon at 4 O clock P. M. Monday Septr 20th 4 O clock P. M. Council met pursuant to adjournment Present: - N. Plato, Mayor; Aldermen - Rogers, Hoffman, Reid, Doddridge, Baldeschwiler, Downing and Evans; City Marshal P. Whelan & City Treas urer J. B. Mitchell. Absent: Hirsch & Berry. The Minutes of the last regular meeting were read and adopted. A communication from Jas. Patterson was read tendering his resignation as City Policeman; when, on motion his resignation was received and accepted to date from Septr 3d 1875. A communication from W. S. Halsey was read and on motion the appli- cation for services of P. Whelan, City Marshal, was refused. It was then Resolved, That the City Treasurer and Assessor & collector be and are hereby authorized to receive from tax payers City Warrants in payment of the one fourth of one per cent ad valorem debt Bond Tax. A report and communication from the City 236 Treasurer relating to the money due the City from the Central Wharf & Ware House Company, was presented and read, when on motion the report was accepted, and action deferred until the next regular meeting. The report of the Assessor and Collector for the Month of August was reported back approved by the Finance Committee, and on motion the report was adopted. The following bills were reported back by the Finance Committee as approved and were disposed of as follows. The bill of the Valley Times for $5250/100 was received and a warrant ordered issued for said amount. The bill of the Corpus Christi Gazette for $17652/100 less error $750/100 was received and on motion a warrant ordered issued for the same, to be of like status as all warrants issued by the former Board of Aldermen. On motion the account of the Valley Times for $5250/100 was reconsidered and it was ordered that a warrant be issued for the same, to be of like status as the warrants issued by the former Board of Aldermen. The informal warrant of C. Cahill for $500 was received and on motion it was ordered that it be attested by the Secretary and approved by the Mayor. Two bills of the Valley Times for City printing one of $2524/100 and the other of $612/100 and the bill of the Board of Health for the work on the Streets of $21375/100 The bill of the Schooner Star of the South for $2000 Coin and the bill of Mrs Petzell for $385/100 Coin. were received and ordered paid. A bill of M. S. Culver for $6225/100 Coin was received and on motion a warrant was ordered issued for the same. The bill of H. Meuly for $741/100 was received and referred to the Finance Com- mittee. The report of the Mayor for the month of August was then received and on motion ordered filed. The Contract and bond of the City Official printer was received accepted, and on motion ordered filed. The following ordinance for the improvement of Sidewalks, was read and on motion adopted. An Ordinance to establish side walks. Sec. 1. Be it ordained by the Mayor and Board of Aldermen of the City of Corpus Christi in Council convened that all owners of Lots in the City of Corpus Christi shall and are hereby required to construct and erect suitable sidewalks in front of their property. 237 Said sidewalks to be ten feet in width and the curb to be con- structed of yellow pine plank to the dimensions of 2x12 inches; said planks to be secured by substantial stakes to be of 4x4 yellow pine limber and not less than 2 ½ feet in length and placed not more than 4 feet apart. Sec. 2. That any person failing to comply with the provisions of the foregoing Section within thirty days after the City Engineer shall have given them the proper grades, the work shall be done by the City, and the cost of the same shall be defrayed by the owners of the lot or part of lot or block fronting on the sidewalk, and the cost of any sidewalk constructed by the City shall be collected, if necessary, by sale of the lot, or part of lot or block on which it fronts; together with the cost of collection. The public School question was then taken up, and Mr H. Taylor addressed the Board on the subject, and several of the Aldermen did the same. The hour being late, action in regard to levying a tax was deferred until the next regular meeting. On motion the Council adjourned Attest R. J. Denny Nelson Plato Secretary Mayor Regular Meeting of the City Council, Thursday evening Oct 7th 1875. There being no quorum, the Mayor adjourned this regular meeting to Saturday October 9th at 4 O Clock P. M. Saturday Oct 9th there being no quorum the regular meeting was again adjourned to Tuesday October 12th. Tuesday Oct 12th No Quorum being present the regular meeting was adjourned to Wednesday evening Oct 13th at 7 ½ O clock. Wednesday evening Oct 13th 1875 Council met pursuant to adjournment. Present: N. Plato, Mayor Aldermen: Evans, Hoffman, Hirsch, Rogers, Downing and Berry. City Marshal P Whelan Absent: Doddridge, Reid, & Baldeschwiler The Minutes of the last regular meeting were read and 238 adopted: An application from Albert Allen for position on the Police force of the City was read and laid over for further consideration. An application from D. McKenzie presented orally by Alderman Hoffman for position on the police force of the city was received and laid over for further consideration. An application from Joseph Depois for assistance (with recommendation of mayor Burbank of Indianola) was read, and on motion referred to the relief committee of the City, the Council recommending him to their favor- able consideration. An application from Chas. Wicks and Thos. Basquez City Policemen asking an increase of Salary of ten dollars per month to enable them to keep a horse to do more effective duty was on motion allowed until the police force shall be in- creased. A communication from Alderman Doddridge and concurred in and signed by Alderman Rogers, Downing, Berry, Evans, and Hoffman, also by A. Ansell Quarantine officer at Aransas Pass, relative to the strict Quarantine as now in force and recommending certain changes under Health officer’s, directions, was read, and the statement of the Mayor and the course that he had adopted regarding the same was submitted, when on motion the Action of the Mayor was approved and the changes spoken of were recommended. A communication from R. Hollub City Engineer and Surveyor was then read, which on motion was referred to the Street Committee to be reported on at the next regular meeting with an estimate of the outlay necessary and amount of work to be performed. A communication from his Honor the Mayor to the Aldermen of the City, and concurred in by them in relation to the action taken by him, respecting the Wharf revenues, and the reply from the President of the Central Wharf and Ware House Company; were then presented, read, and on motion the Mayors action in the premises was approved. It was then moved seconded and carried that a special committee of three be appointed by the Mayor, to whom shall be referred all matters pertaining to the Wharf revenues not due, and that said committee be author- ized to demand and receive the amount due the City and deposit the same in the Treasury, Evans, Hirsch & Downing were appointed said committee. A communication from H. Chamberlaine Prest. of the Central Wharf and Ware House Co, asking that 239 a policeman be detailed to enforce the Ordinance relating to driving fast over the wharves and the good order to be observed by draymen in conveying freights across the same was on motion received and the Marshall instructed to enforce the Ordinance relating thereto. The report of Messers Doddridge & Davis agents of Messers Morris & Cummings, for the Month of Quarter ending September 1st 1875 was received and on motion referred to the Finance Committee. The report of the City Treasurer up to the month of October was received and on motion referred to the Finance Committee. The reports of the city assessor and collector on the occupation and ad valorem taxes for the Month of September, were received and referred to the Finance Committee. Two reports from the Health Officer at Aransas Pass, and his communications therewith were received, and on motion placed on file. The School question was then brought up and on motion deferred to the next regular meeting. A communication from the Silsby Manufacturing Company was then received and on motion referred to the Foreman of Pioneer Fire Engine Co.; No 1 and he with the Engineer to report whether the old hub was originally defective or not and the payment of draft deferred pending said report. Two warrants were then ordered issued to the Gazette Office for City printing in lieu of the one ordered at the last regular meeting, One of thirty four dollars and thirty cents and the other of one hundred and thirty four dollars and seventy two cents, this latter warrant to be of the same status as the warrants issued by the former board of Aldermen. A Warrant was also on motion ordered in favor of Wm De Ryee for $1425/100 to be of like status as the warrants issued by the former Board of Aldermen in payment of bill rendered March 1st 1875. A Bill of W. Moore for board of City prisoners was on motion referred back for approval of the City Marshal. A bill of A. Allen for services at City Hall as special Policeman, was on motion referred back. The City Assessment Bolls were then presented and referred to the Finance Committee. The Council then on Motion adjourned Attest R. J. Denny City Sec Nelson Plato Mayor 240 Called Meeting of the City Council Monday Oct 18th 1875 Present: Nelson Plato, Mayor; Aldermen: Hirsch, Hoffman, Doddridge, Evans and Berry City Marshall P. Whelan, His Honor the Mayor stated that the meeting had been called to consider the Quarantine matter, and pro- ceeded to read two communications from the Health Officer at Aransas Pass, One relating to violation of the Quarantine laws, and the other to a correspondence had with the President of the Board of Health of New Orleans, when on motion, duly seconded these communications were received and placed on file. A letter from his Honor the Mayor, to the Collector of the Port of Corpus Christi was then read, after which the Mayor made a full statement relating to Quaran- tine as it now exists by virtue of the Proclamation of the Governor dated September 2d A. D. 1875. The law regulating Quarantine was then read, after which, a recess of ten minutes of declared in order that the first Quarantine proclamation by the Governor might be brought before the Council. The Council was, after recess, called to order, and the proclamation was read. It was then moved seconded and carried, that a certified copy of the reports of the Health Officer be forwarded to the Governor forth- with, and that his Hon. the Mayor, be requested to make a full statement of the cases as they occurred. It was further moved seconded and carried that the action of Dr Ansell, Health Officer at Aransas Pass be sustained, and that he be requested to continue in office the full period that his services may be required, and to enforce the State Laws relating to Quarantine. On Motion the Council adjourned Nelson Plato Attest Mayor R. J. Denny Secretary 241 Regular Meeting of the City Council, Thursday October 21st 1875. Present: Nelson Plato, Mayor Aldermen - Hirsch, Hoffman, Doddridge, Evans, Berry & Downing, City Marshal – P Whelan. Absent: Rogers, Baldeschwiler & Reid. The minutes of the last Regular and subsequent called meetings were read and approved. A communication from O. N. Hollingsworth, Superinten- dant of Public Instruction, was received, read, and on motion placed on file. An application from Lorenzo Modina, asking for assistance from the City, with the action taken by the County Court in his case endorsed thereon, and the Statement of the Mayor and his course regarding the same, - when on motion the action of the Mayor was approved; and the whole matter was on motion referred to the Attorney General for his decision. It was then moved and carried that ten dollars per month be contributed from the City for his relief for two months. The report of the Finance Committee on the reports of the Treasurer were received and on motion adopted. The report of the Finance committee on the report of the Assessor and Collector for Ad Valorem tax was on motion referred back for correction and explanation. The report of the Finance Committee on the report of the Assessor and Collector for Occupation Tax being found correct was on motion adopted. The report of the Special Committee to whom had been referred the settlement of the Wharf revenues, was, with their recommendations, read, when on motion the report was received and the Committee empowered to receive the notes of the Central Wharf & Ware House Company and receipt to them for the same, as final settlement up to September 1st 1876. It was then resolved that a special committee of three be appointed by the Mayor, as School Committee to confer with the Board of School Directors of Nueces County and recommend such action as they deem necessary with respect to the management of Public Free Schools in this City. – Whereupon the Mayor appointed Messers. Downing, Hirsch, and Evans. A motion was then made and seconded, that his Honor the Mayor, be added to said Committee or Chairman, which motion was put by the Secretary and unanimously carried. It was then on motion resolved, That the question of taxation for the support of Public Free Schools be defferred until the next regular meeting. 242 A communication from the City Engineer and Surveyor, addressed to the Chairman of the Street Committee, was then offered for the consideration of the Council, when on motion the communication was received and filed, and the City Engineer was instructed to establish the grades of the City, and that he receive therefor a Warrant, payable in Twelve Months from the date of completion of said service. It was further moved and carried, that the Street Committee be instructed to put, and keep in good repair all the platforms for the use of the Steam Fire Engine of the City. The bill of W. Moore amounting to $925/100 for board of City prisoners, was presented and endorsed as correct by the City Marshal, when on motion the account was ordered paid. On motion the Council then adjourned. Attest Nelson Plato R. J. Denny Mayor Secretary Regular Meeting of the City Council, Novr 4th 1875 Present: N. Plato, Mayor Aldermen: Doddridge Downing, Hirsch, Hoffman and Evans, City Marshal P. Whelan. Absent: Rogers, Baldeschwiler, Berry & Reid The Minutes of the last regular meeting were read and adopted. A communication from Dr A Ansell, touching the violation of the Quarantine law by Dr C. H. Lewis, Pilot C. C. Heath and others was received read and on motion laid on the table. A communication from Dr A. Ansell, accompanied by his report of the vessels entering at Aransas Pass, up to Oct 31st was also received; and on motion ordered filed. A copy of a letter written by His Hon. the Mayor to his Excellency, Gov. Coke, referring to the conflict of authority regarding Quarantine at Aransas Pass, was then received, read and on motion approved and laid on the table subject to call. 243 The report of Alderman Evans, Chairman of the Special committee on the Wharf revenues, stating that a settlement had been concluded with the Central Wharf & Ware House Company, and the receipt of the Treasurer therewith enclosed, for the notes of the Central Wharf and Ware House Company amounting in the aggregate to $2,697.02 Coin; was then presented, read and on motion the committee was discharged. The report of the Mayor for fines collected in the City Court for the Months of September, and October was the received, read and on motion referred to the Finance Committee. The City Treasurer and the City Assessor and Collector were on motion granted until the next regular meeting to make their reports. A Bill of P. Hoffman, for repairs on Engine Wharf amounting to $550/100 Coin, was received and on motion ordered paid: A bill of the Central Wharf & Ware house Company, amounting to $600/100 Coin for lumber & posts was received and on motion ordered paid. A bill of S. Shoemaker for services rendered as Engineer Pioneer Fire Co No 1 for the Months of April and May, amounting to $16667/100 was received and on motion ordered paid. Two bills for work and expenses in burying a Sailor, one to P. O Donnell of $400, and the other to Frank Moore and Stephen St Clair of $500 were received and on motion ordered paid; it was further ordered that a demand be made on the master of the vessel, to which he belonged, through the Custom House authorities, for repayment of the above amounts to the City. A motion was then made and carried, to allow Mr S. Shoemaker to return the warrant received from the City for services rendered as Engineer for the Month of March last, and the Secretary to issue to him warrants in such amounts as he may desire, to cover his claim of $25000 against the City for his services as Engineer during the months of March, April and May; the Secretary was further instructed to cancel his old warrant for the month of March. A bill of Dr A. Ansell against the State of Texas, for $50000 for Services as Quarantine officer and the hire of boat for two months was received and on motion approved. An informal warrant issued to R. Power by the former Board of Aldermen, for $5.00 was received and on motion it was ordered signed and sealed by the Secretary, and approved by the Mayor. 244 The question of hogs running at large in the Streets was then brought up, when it was moved seconded and carried, that it be referred to the Ordinance Committee to prepare such Ordinance as will obviate the cause of Complaint. Two bills one to P. B. Turpin, of $3000 and the other to Turpin Brothers of $2000 were then received and on motion referred to Finance Committee. It was then moved, seconded and carried, that the Secretary be instructed to call on Mr Frank Barnard, and request him to return the amount in Specie to the City Treasurer, that he received on Warrant No 68 for $3430/100 , that was paid him in excess of its face value in currency and request him to return the warrant No 69 for $13472/100 , yet unpaid, and receive in its stead a warrant drawn in Currency, and the Treasurer be and is hereby instructed not to pay the last mentioned warrant. It was then moved seconded and carried, that the instructions heretofore given to the City Treasurer to receive and dispose of Specie at 108, be revoked, It was then Resolved, That this Council will not hereafter entertain any bills against the City government, except they be made out in U. S. Currency. and that all City Warrants for payment of the same shall be issued in U. S. Currency, to pay all debts and demands against the City, and that when the City Treasurer has Coin in the Treasury, he be and is hereby authorized to sell the same for currency at the best market rate. The Council then on motion adjourned Attest R. J. Denny Nelson Plato Secretary Mayor 245 Called Meeting of the City Council Novr 6th 1875 Present: N. Plato Mayor Aldermen: Doddridge, Downing, Hirsch, Hoffman & Evans. City Marshal – P Whelan. Absent: Rogers, Baldeschwiler, Berry & Reid. His Hon. The Mayor informed the Board that he had been summoned to attend the Federal Court now in session at Brownsville, and that it would be necessary to appoint a Mayor Pro. Tem. to serve during his absence. The Mayor then retired and Alderman Downing was put in nomi- nation and unanimously elected Mayor Pro Tem to serve during the temporary absence of Mayor Plato. There being no further business before the Board the Council on motion adjourned. Attest R. J. Denny Nelson Plato Sec Mayor Regular Meeting of the City Council, December 2d 1875 Present: Nelson Plato, Mayor; Aldermen - Evans, Reid, Hoffman, Downing, & Berry; City Treasurer J. B. Mitchell, and City Marshal P. Whelan. Absent; Hirsch, Doddridge, Rogers & Baldeschwiler. The Minutes of the last regular and subsequent called meetings were read and adopted. The Ordinance Committee then offered the following Ordinance; An Ordinance relating to hogs running at large in the Streets. Be it Ordained by the Mayor and board of Aldermen of the City of Corpus Christi, that the Owner or Owners of any hog or hogs shall not permit the same to run at large within the limits of the City Corporation, under a penalty of two Dollars from each and every hog so running at large. Be it further Ordained, that it shall be the duty of the City Marshal to seize all hogs so running at large in said City limits, of which he shall be 246 unable to ascertain the owner, and after twenty four hours notice, posted in three public places in the City limits, giving a description of the animal, and the time and place of sale he shall sell the same at pubic sale to the highest bidder, for the benefit of the City. This Ordinance to take effect in ten days from and after its publication in the Official Journal of the City. It was moved that the Ordinance be adopted by calling the Ayes and Noes; when, upon calling the roll, all present voted in the Affirmative. The following reports of the Assessor and collector were then received, and on motion referred to the Finance Committee:- Reports of the Special ad valorem tax for the Months of October and November, and the Report of the Occupation tax for the month of October. The following Reports of the Treasurer were received, and on motion also referred to the Finance Committee: The Fire Engine Fund Account, Mayors Court Account, Debt Bond account, And general fund account, together with a statement of the old outstanding indebtedness of the City in warrants. An informal Warrant in favor of W. J. Robertson, and one in favor of P. McDonough, for five Dollars each, were presented and on motion it was ordered, that they be approved by the Mayor and sealed and attested by the Secretary. The following informal warrants were on motion referred to the finance ‘committee: $100 Coin in favor of Wm Brunwinkle; $864/100 Currency in favor of P. Whelan; And $1950/100 Coin in favor of Turpin Bro’s; $350/100 Currency in favor of J. Sands. The following resolution was then offered by Alderman Downing and adopted, to wit: Resolved, that any officer or person picking up any hog or hogs running at large in violation of the Ordi- nance relating to hogs, be allowed the sum of fifty cents for each and every hog so taken up. His Honor the Mayor then made a verbal statement to the Board, relative to the Question that was submitted to the Attorney Genl for his decision, con- cerning the support of paupers in which the Attorney General declines to give an opinion, and says that the matter must be settled between the City and County, Judicially. Alderman Downing then offered the following motion which was seconded and carried to wit: That the report of the Mayor in relation to the communication concerning the support of paupers referred 247 referred to the Attorney General, be received, and that the Mayor be instructed to institute suit in the District court, for the recovery of all amounts so expended for support of paupers by the City. The report of the teacher of Public Free School No 2, (Colored), was then presented, when it was moved seconded and carried, that the action of the Trustees in employing a teacher be approved. Resolved, that the Board of School Trustees be hereby authorized to employ an assistant teacher in the Public Schools of this City, at a Salary of Fifty Dollars per month; provided said teacher accepts the service upon the same conditions of payment as the Principal of the Public Free Schools, now employed. It was then moved seconded and carried – That the matter relating to the protection and Care of the City Cemetary, and the appointment of a Sexton for the same, be referred to the Ordinance Committee. It was then moved seconded and carried, That the outstanding certificates of Deposit issued by the former Mayor, with regard to the issuance of Bonds for the same, be referred to the Finance Committee for their recommendation and report as to final disposition of said certificates. It was then moved seconded and carried, that Alderman Evans be appointed a committee of One, to procure the report of the Foreman and Engineer of Pioneer Steam Fire Company No 1, about the old hub on said Fire engine, and the new one sent here by the Silsby Manufacturing Company. It was then moved seconded and carried, That the Mayor appoint a committee of Three to wait upon the Trustees of the Presbyterian Congregation and get permission from them to ring the bell on their house of worship in case of Fire. Whereupon the Mayor appointed Messers, Downing, Evans, and Reid. The Council then on motion adjourned. Attest Nelson Plato R. J. Denny Mayor Secretary 248 Regular Meeting of the City Council, Decr. 16th 1875 Present: Nelson Plato, Mayor: Aldermen – Doddridge, Hirsch, Evans, Berry, & Baldeschwiler; City Marshal P. Whelan. Absent: Rogers, Hoffman, Downing & Reid. The Minutes of the last regular meeting were read and adopted. A proposition for lighting the streets was presented by Messers Lane & Martin, recommended and signed by a num- ber of citizens, which was, on motion, referred to the Street Committee. The resignation of Mr Chas, Wicks, policeman of the City, as presented to the Mayor on the 4th day of Decr – and accepted by him subject to the action of the Council, was brought up, and on motion the action of the Mayor was approved. Petitions were then presented from the following named persons for appointment on the police force of the City: D. McKenzie, A. Albertson, John S. Holmes, and Albert Allen; which petitions were laid on the table subject to call. The Finance Committee reported back as correct the reports of the City Assessor and Collector, and also the reports of the City Treasurer, which reports were adopted. The Finance Committee reported back the bill of Dr P. B. Turpin, of $3000 as approved, and recommended its payment; and also recommended that the four informal warrants referred to them at last meeting, for examination, be signed and sealed by the Secretary and approved by the Mayor, to be of like status as all old warrants. Said reports were on motion adopted. The finance Committee reported back as correct the Mayors court account of fines collected and recommended that some measures be adopted to enforce the collection of fines unpaid; which was, on motion adopted. Mr Evans asked further time in which to get the report of the Foreman and Engineer of Pioneer Fire Co., No. 1; which request was granted. The bills enumerated below were then presented and disposed of, as follows: Daily Fines, for $930/100 , Coin ordered paid. On motion this action was reconsidered, and the bill referred to the Finance Committee. A bill of the Central Wharf and Ware House Co; for $695/100 , and one of P Hoffman for $425/100 , were received and on motion ordered paid. A bill of McCampbell and Williams, for $800 was presented and on motion referred to the Finance Committee. A bill of 249 W. B. Lacy, for $11666/100 for Services as teacher of Public Free School No 2, (Colored) was received, and on motion ordered paid out of the State Fund, and that a warrant be issued upon the County Treasurer for the amount of the bill. A bill of Albert H. Allen, for services as special policeman, of $2.50, was presented and on motion ordered paid. It was then moved and seconded and carried, That a special committee of three be appointed by the Mayor, to ascertain what amount of the State appropriation is properly coming to the free Colored School, and that notice be given to the teachers of said School of the amount still remaining in the hands of the County Treasurer subject to drafts for pay- ment of teachers of said colored school, out of said funds, during the current year; and said committee are also instruc ted to recommend ways and means to put all our public free schools in operation. Whereupon the Mayor appointed Messers Doddridge, Evans, and Berry the committee to carry out the above motion. It was then moved seconded and carried, That the Finance Committee be instructed to prepare a full statement of the Financial condition of the City, and present it at the next regular meeting of the Council. It was then moved seconded and carried, That the Mayor be authorized to issue Bonds, as provided in an Ordinance by the former Council, dated February 3th, 1875, funding City debt for which certificates have been issued by the Former Mayor, and Warrants cancelled and returned to the City Treasurer for the same, amounting in all to $2458.17/100 (Cy.) The following Ordinance was taken up and adopted Section by Section, each Alderman present voting in the affirmative: Ordinance re- lating to fires and Stove pipes. Be it Ordained by the Mayor and Board of Aldermen of the City of Corpus Christi; Sec. 1 That no person shall within the City, make or keep a fire in a wooden chimney, under a penalty of three Dollars for each and every offense. Sec. 2. That any person who shall desire to have a stove pipe pass through or near any wooden part of any building, shall have it so put up as not to be nearer than three inches to any wood work, and shall have a sheet of tin or iron, or a course of bricks to intervene between such pipe and woodwork. and unless the smoke is to escape from the pipe into a chimney, the end from which the smoke is to escape shall be a least three feet from any wood work and wooden 250 projection, and shall project at least three feet beyond any wooden projection, which shall be above it, and shall be at least ten feet above the ground. The penalty for any breach of the provi- sions of this section shall be Five Dollars for each day it shall be permitted to continue. Sec. 3. No person Shall light or keep a fire on any public ground in this city, under the penalty of three Dollars for each offense. Sec. 4. That any person having control of any work, in the course of which chips or shavings shall be made in the public street near to any house or building, shall have the same removed every evening under a penalty of Three Dollars for each failure so to do. His Honor the Mayor then asked the consent of the Council to the necessary outlay, for the purchase of a stove and fuel for the use of the Mayors Court and Council Room, which was on motion granted. It was then moved seconded and carried, That the Mayors action in appointing J. N. Patterson on the Police force of the City in the interim of the resignation of Mr C. Wicks, be and is hereby approved. It was then, Resolved, that the City Marshal be hereby authorized to appoint, with the approval of the Mayor, two special policemen if deemed necessary during the Months of December 1875 and January 1876, at a per diem of two Dollars. The applications for the position on the police force were then called up from the table, and Mr Chas Wicks also asked to be placed in nomination. An election was then ordered, and the following named persons were put in nomination before the Board: D. McKenzie, John Scott Holmes, A. Albertson, A. H. Allen, & C. wicks. On the first ballot Mr C. Wicks received four votes and A. Albertson received one; whereupon Mr C. Wicks was declared duly elected. Council then on motion adjourned Attest R. J. Denny Nelson Plato Secretary Mayor. 251 Regular Meeting of the City Council January 6th 1876 Present: Nelson Plato, Mayor; Aldermen: Doddridge, Evans, Hirsch, Hoffman, Baldeschwiler, Reid, Rogers, Berry, and Downing. City Marshal, P. Whelan. The Minutes of the last Regular Meeting were read and adopted. A bill of the Corpus Christi Fines for $930/100 was reported correct by the Finance Committee, and a warrant ordered issued for the payment thereof. A bill of H. Meuly for $815/100 was reported back approved by the Finance Committee, and warrant ordered issued for the payment thereof. The report of Mr L. D. Brewster, Foreman of Pioneer Fire Co. No 1, in relation to the broken hub of the Engine, and that in his opinion it was defective when first sent here, and endorsed as correct by Alderman Evans to whom as special committee of one, the same has been referred, was received, and on motion the report was adopted. The Street Committee reported favourably on the proposition to light the streets, which had been referred to them at a former meeting; which report was received, and on motion laid on the table subject to call. The Special Committee, to whom had been referred the public School affairs, presented their report, the first part of which relating to the amount to be paid the teachers of the free Colored School No2, was on motion, adopted; and the second part, recommending that a certain portion of the wharf revenues be set aside for the use of the public schools, was, on motion, referred to the Finance Committee. The Finance Committee asked further time in which to make up their statement of the Financial condition of the City, which was on motion granted. The following reports of the Assessor and Collector were received, and on motion referred to the Finance Committee. Dog Tax report for the Year 1875; Occupation Tax report for the month of December, 1875; Special Ad Valorem tax report for the Month of December 1875; The report of the Mayor of fines imposed in the City court for the Months of November and December, was received and on motion referred to the Finance Committee. The report of the City Engineer with bill enclosed of $25000 for services in establishing the grades of certain streets in the City, was received and on motion referred to the Street Committee. The report of the School Committee, with vouchers attached, was received and on motion referred to the 252 Finance Committee. A circular letter from O. N. Hollingsworth, superintendant of public instruction, was then read and placed in the hands of the Finance Committee. A bill of E. D. Sidbury & Co for $536/100 was presented and on motion ordered paid. The receipt of the City Treasurer for money received from the City Secretary was on motion ordered filed. The question touching new assessment of Special Ad Valorem Tax was on motion referred to a Special Committee of three to be appointed by the Mayor, whereupon Messers Hirsch, Doddridge, and Evans were appointed said committee. It was then moved seconded and carried that the authority which had been delegated to the Marshal to appoint two special Policemen is now withdrawn, to take effect from and after the passage of this action. The following Ordinances were then adopted An Ordinance relating to fire Works Be it Ordained by the Mayor and Board of Aldermen of the City of Corpus Christi, That hereafter it shall not be lawful for any person or persons to buy, sell or in any way dispose of or use fire works of any description, within the corporate limits of this City, including fire crackers, roman candles, rockets, torpedoes, etc; and for every violation of the provisions of this ordinance, the offender or offenders shall be deemed guilty of a misdemeanor and fined not less than Twenty Five nor more than One Hundred Dollars, at the discretion of the Mayor. This Ordinance to take effect from and after its passage. An Ordinance relating to the Sale of Meats Game &c. Be it Ordained by the Mayor and board of Aldermen of the City of Corpus Christi. That should any parties sell or offer for sale meats, game or vegetables at any other place than the City Market, in contravention of the Ordinances already made and provided forbidding the same; The City Marshall is hereby authorized to immediately close such stall or place and to see that it is not reopened. This however shall not release such parties from any fines or penalties that have been imposed by previous Ordinances. This Ordinance to take effect from and after its passage. His Honor the Mayor then asked leave of absence for a short time, which was on motion granted. Alderman Downing was nominated as Mayor Pro Tem to serve during the temporary absence of 253 Mayor Plato, and unanimously elected. There being no other business before the Council it was on motion adjourned. Attest R. J. Denny Nelson Plato Secretary Mayor Called Meeting of the City Council, January 17th 1876 Present: James Downing, Mayor Pro Tem; Aldermen - Doddridge, Hoffman, Evans, Baldeschwiler and Reid; City Marshal P. Whelan Absent: Hirsch, Berry and Rogers. The Mayor stated that the meeting had been called for the purpose of considering the business of the City in relation to the City Market. The Contract between Messers Rogers and Jordin, and the City was called for and read. The Acting Mayor then stated to the Council that he had advised with Mayor Plato before the latter left the City, and that they had thought best to employ Counsel, and accordingly had agreed with Messers McCampbell, Givens and Atlee, to defend the interests of the City in sustaining her contract with the lessees of the Market House and property. It was moved seconded and carried, by a unanimous vote, that the action of the Mayor and Acting Mayor, in employing Counsel to defend the City’s rights in the premises, be and is hereby sustained and approved. There being no other business the Council on motion adjourned. Attest R. J. Denny James Downing Sec Mayor Pro.tem 254 Regular Meeting of the City Council January 20th 1876 Present: James Downing Mayor Pro.Tem; Aldermen Berry, Hoffman, Evans, Baldeschwiler & Reid; City Marshal P. Whelan Absent: Hirsch, Doddridge, & Rogers. The minutes of the last regular and subsequent called meetings were read and adopted. A citation for the Mayor and Board of Aldermen to appear before the next term of the District Court was read and on motion filed with the Secretary. The Finance committee reported back approved the bill of the teachers of public Free School No 2, Colored, and on motion a warrant was ordered drawn on the County Treasurer for the amount in his hands, belonging to the free colored schools, in favor of said Teachers. The following bills were disposed of as follows: Expense account of City Marshal during the year 1875 for sundries in the discharge of his duties, $6965/100 , ordered paid. P Hoffmans account for repairs to fire Engine Wharf, $275/100 ordered paid McCampbell and Williams account for a coffin for a pauper $540/100 ordered paid, and the statement of the City Marshal to be endorsed thereon, and the amount to be demanded from the County Authorities. the Secretary’s bill for Stationary $469/100 ordered paid. A bill of E. D. Sidbury & Co. of $25534/100 was on motion referred to the Street committee. The following ordinances were then adopted An Ordinance re- lating to the remo- val of Shell from the Beach Be it ordained by the Mayor and Board of Aldermen of the City of Corpus Christi in Council convened. That from and after this date, it shall not be lawful to any person or persons to remove sand and shell from the front of any street or lots on the beach to the detriment of the said property, under a penalty of not less than five nor more than ten Dollars for each and every offense. This ordinance to take effect from and after its passage. An Ordinance in regard to riding and driving at an immoderate Be it ordained by the Mayor and Board of Aldermen of the gait and cruelty City of Corpus Christi in Council Convened. That whoever to Animals. shall hereafter, in this City ride or drive any beast of burden in any highway thoroughfare or other public place, quicker than or beyond a moderate gait, or shall ride or drive any animal so as to cause such animal or vehicle 255 thereto attached to come in collision with or strike any other object or any person, or shall have any such animal standing in any public place without being fastened or so guarded as to prevent its running away, or shall turn any such animal loose in any thoroughfare; or shall inhumanely, unnecessarily or cruelly beat, injure or otherwise abuse any dumb animal, shall be upon conviction subject to a fine of not less than Five nor more than One Hundred Dollars. This ordinance to take effect from and after its passage. On motion the Council then adjourned Attest R. J. Denny James Downing Secretary Mayor Pro.tem Regular Meeting of the City Council Feb 3d A. D. 1876. Present: Nelson Plato, Mayor; Aldermen – Doddridge, Downing, Berry, Reid, Baldeschwiler and Hoffman – City Marshall, P. Whelan. Absent: Hirsch, Rogers and Evans. The Minutes of the last regular and subsequent called meetings were read and adopted. A communication from Messers Doddridge & Davis, agents of Messers Morris & Cummings, accompanied with their report of the earnings of the Ship Channel for the quarter ending December 31st, 1875 was received and on motion referred to the Finance Committee. The resignation of Mr Chas Wicks, presented to the Mayor on the 31st day of January, and accepted by him subject to the approval of the Council, was presented and on motion accepted and the action of the Mayor approved. The nomination of Wm Ohler on the Police force of the City by the City Marshal, and the Mayors approval endorsed thereon was presented, and on motion the appointment was confirmed to take effect from February 1st 1876, and the Mayors action approved. A bill of J. N. Patterson for services as special Policeman amounting to $2600 was received and on motion ordered paid. A bill of the City Marshal amounting to $450/100 for digging grave and burying a pauper, was received and on motion ordered paid, and a demand made on the 256 County authorities for the amount thus expended. The Street Committee then submitted their report on the work performed by the City Engineer with their views and recommendations, when on motion the report was received and that portion relating to the payment of the City Engineer was approved and a warrant ordered issued for the amount of his bill $25000 payable in twelve months from date. and the remainder was laid on the table. The question of lighting the streets was brought up when on motion the Street Committee was entrusted with the carrying out of the recommendations contained in the memorial for lighting the streets. The Street Committee then reported verbally on the improve ment made on Broadway by E. D. Sidbury & Co, when it was resolved that the verbal report of the Street Committee on the bill of E. D. Sidbury & Co., for the improvement on Broadway, be approved and warrants issued to E. D. Sidbury & Co. for two thirds of the amount of his bill payable in one year from date, but receivable at any time for ad valorem taxes. The City Marshall then made a verbal statement to the Council relating to the collection of taxes and asked further time in which to make his monthly report on the assess- ment and collection of taxes, which was on motion granted. It was then moved seconded and carried that the Street committee be instructed to have a box made and placed near the fire alarm bell rope, containing the instructions for striking the fire alarm, and, that the Foreman of Pioneer Fire Co., No. 1. be added to the said committee. It was then stated to the Board that armed parties of men had been of late coming on the Bluff and shooting through the windows of houses and an additional force was asked on the Police force of the City, and on motion one extra Policeman was authorized and the Marshal em- powered to make the appointment subject to the approval of the Council at the next regular meeting. It was then moved seconded and carried that one extra police- man be allowed at each voting precinct in the City on the day of election provided the Mayor in his discretion shall deem it advisable. The Secretary was then on motion authorized to buy stationary for the use of the City to the amount of Ten Dollars and present his bill for the same at the next regular meeting. On Motion the Council then adjourned attest Nelson Plato R. J. Denny Secretary Mayor 257 Regular Meeting of the City Council Feb 17th 1876 There being no quorum present His Honor the Mayor adjourned this Regular meeting until Wednesday February 23d Inst. at 7 ½ O clock P. M. R. J. Denny Nelson Plato Secretary Mayor Adjourned Regular Meeting of the City council Feb 23d 1876 Present: Nelson Plato, Mayor; Aldermen, Downing, Hoffman, Hirsch, Rogers & Reid: City Marshal P. Whelan Absent: Doddridge, Evans, Baldeschwiler & Berry The Minutes of the last two regular meetings were read and adopted. A Communication from John Woessner; asking to be relieved from the Bond of P. Whelan, City Marshal, was received, read, and on motion, laid over to the next regular meeting. The bill of P. W. Humphreys for $4425/100 Coin Dollars, or its equivalent in U. S. Currency, was received and on motion referred to the Finance Committee. The bill of H. [Moreling] for $10.00 the bill of H. Hamlin for $1000 and the bill of Thos. Murphy for $1500, all for services as special policeman at the last election were received and on motion referred to the Finance Committee. The bill of H. Meuly for $802/100 was received, and on motion ordered paid. It was then at the request of the City Marshal moved seconded and carried that the communication of Jno Woessner be now taken up, and the Mayor be authorized in his discretion to receive and approve the new bond to be filed by the City Marshal, P. Whelan in lieu of the one now on file in the records of the City. There being no further business the Council on motion adjourned Attest R. J. Denny Nelson Plato sec. Mayor 258 Regular Meeting of the City Council March 16th 1876 Present: Nelson Plato, Mayor; Aldermen _ Hirsch, Evans, Downing, Hoffman and Reid, City Marshal P. Whelan. Absent: Doddridge, Berry, Balderschwiler and Rogers. The minutes of the last regular meeting were read and adopted. A communication from R. Hollub, City Engineer was received relating to taking the Census and making a cor- rect map of the City, which was on motion referred to the Street Committee. A report from the Special Committee on the Charter was received and read. There not being two thirds of the Council in attendance action on the report was deferred. The report of the Finance Committee, Showing the financial condition of the City up to March 1st 1876, was received and adopted and upon motion duly carried, said report was ordered published. The finance Committee reported back as correct the Quarterly statements of Messers Doddridge and Davis agents of Messers Morris and Cummings relation to the Ship Channel and recommended that the old Bonds taken up by said Channel dues be cancelled. the report was on motion adopted. The Finance Committee reported back as Correct the Assessors reports of Debt Bond, Fire Engine and Poll tax collected; also his report of occupation tax collected, the reports were on motion received and adopted. The Finance Committee reported back the bills of Thos Mur- phy, recommending that $850/100 be allowed; and reported favorably on the Bills of H. Moreland and H Hamlin for ten Dollars each the reports were on motion adopted. They also reported back the Bill of P. W. Humphreys for $4425/100 coin Dollars, recommending payment in Currency; the latter report was on motion amended by adding Seven per cent thereto; the amendment was on motion carried. The Report of the City Treasurer up to date was received and referred to the Finance Committee; also the Mayors, report from May 8th 1875 to March 1st 1876, and his monthly reports for January and February which were referred to the Finance Committee. The Assessors quarterly assessment rolls for the year ending the 31st of March 1876, was received and on motion referred to the Finance Committee. It was then moved seconded and carried, that the three Police officers of the City be allowed at the rate of Sixty Dollars each for services during the month of February 259 and that from the first of March their compensation shall be only Fifty Dollars per month. The following bills were on motion ordered paid; Bill of the Valley Times for $1870/100 ; Bill of P. Hoffman for Oil $410/100 and a bill of the Corpus Christi Gazette for $2140/100 for printing Blank Bonds and blank tax rects. A bill of Martin Hinijosa for $3840/100 for services as mounted policeman of the City, from the first to the 23d day of March 1875, was presented and on motion referred to the Finance Committee. A bill of Jas McGee for $1125/100 Coin for copying records of the City Court in the cases appealed to the District Court was presented and on motion laid on the table. Alderman Hirsch was then requested by his Honor the Mayor to take the Chair, when his Honor delivered his address to the Board on file in the City Records. On motion duly seconded and carried the address was ordered published, and the recommendations therein contained referred to a Special committee to be appointed by the Chair; whereupon Messers Downing, Doddridge and Evans were appointed, a motion was then made to add Alderman Hirsch the present acting Mayor, to the above committee as Chairman. This motion was put by the Secretary and carried. The Mayor then resumed his seat when it was moved seconded and carried that the Mayor be authorized to order an Election for all elective City Officers under the State Law, to take place on the first Tuesday in April, and also to appoint the Managing Officers of said Election. Alderman Downing then offered the following pre- amble and Resolutions: Whereas, That owing to the small number of men comprising the present Police force of the City, and from that fact the necessity of the same men serving night and day in order to give the protection to life and property which the people expect, and which they have a right to demand, Therefore Be it Resolved That each man comprising the Police force of this City, be mounted and that each one be allowed a salary of Sixty Dollars per Month. Be it further Resolved That the foregoing resolution take effect from and including March 1st 1876, and that all Ordinances and resolutions in contravention of this resolution are hereby repealed. No action was had on the above resolutions and they remain before the Council for future disposition The Council on motion adjourned to Monday evening next March 20th at 8 O,clock. 260 Monday Evening March 20th 1876 Adjourned Regular meeting of the City Council. There being no Quorum present, His Honor the Mayor adjourned this regular Meeting until Tuesday Evening, March 21st at 8 O clock. Tuesday evening, March 21st, 1876, Council met pursuant to adjournment. Present: Nelson Plato, Mayor; Aldermen, – Reid Doddridge, Hoffman, Evans, Berry, Rogers, Hirsch & Downing. City Marshal P. Whelan. Absent: Alderman Baldeschwiler. The Mayor presented and read his telegram to the Attorney General, and also the reply of that officer, and gave his views about the coming election and the registration of voters. All the Aldermen present favoured the election, and upon motion the Secretary was author- ized to open the books for registration at once and keep them open from day to day until Saturday evening April 1st 1876. It was then moved seconded and carried, that the Polls be opened at the Market Hall between the Hours prescribed by law on the first Tuesday in April, for the entire City. The resignation of F. Noessel Chief Engineer of the fire department, was presented, read and on motion accepted, to take effect from date. It was then moved seconded and carried that the Finance Committee be and are hereby instructed to prepare and pub- lish a tabular statement of receipts and expenditures from the organization of this Council to the 1st day of March Eighteen hundred and Seventy Six. The Resolutions offered by Alderman Downing, in referance to the increase of the pay of the Police force of the City, were then called up, the motion seconded and the vote taken thereon, and the resolutions lost. It was then moved seconded and carried, That the Mayor be authorized to appoint, if in his judgement it is deemed necessary, extra policemen on the day of election, the number being limited to Four at $200 each for the day This motion was amended by reducing the number to Three, at Five Dollars each, and they to remain on duty for twenty four hours. The amendment was accepted and carried. On motion the Council then adjourned. Attest R. J. Denny Sec. Nelson Plato Mayor 261 Regular Meeting of the City Council April 6th A. D. 1876 Present: Nelson Plato, Mayor: Aldermen – Baldeschwiler, Evans, Downing, Reid, Hoffman and Hirsch – City Treasurer J. B. Mitchell, and City Marshal P. Whelan. Absent: Alderman Doddridge, Berry & Rogers. The minutes of the last and also the adjourned regular meeting were read and adopted. The Finance Committee reported back correct the claim of M Hinijosa for $3840/100 for services as mounted policeman and recommended that a warrant issue for the amount, to be of like status as all old warrants; this report was on motion adopted. A bill of H Hamlin, for $500 for Services as Special policeman on the day of election, was approved and ordered paid. The several bills of the following judges and clerks of the City Election on the 4th day of April were received and ordered paid: Geo. E. Conklin, for services as presiding officer $1000 and for Ballot box $1.60; L. D. Brewster, Judge $1000; R. M. Grooms, Judge, $1000; S. Welch, Clerk $1000; Jas, McKenzie, clerk, $1000; total $5160/100 . The presiding officer, Mr Geo. E. Conklin, then presented his sealed election returns, and Aldermen Hirsch and Hoffman, with the presiding officer aforesaid, were appointed a committee to open the returns in open Council and declare the result. Upon opening the returns the following named persons were found to have received the highest number of votes for the different offices, and were declared duly elected, to wit: For Mayor W. Headen For City Marshal P. Whelan For Aldermen the following nine persons: Geo. F. Evans, P. Hoffman, Jas Downing, D. Reid, A. Ricklefsen, Jos Fitzsimmons, Jas. Cody, Geo. French, and A. Baldeschwiler. After the announcement and declaration by the Committee, his Honor the Mayor also declared them duly and legally elected. The following communication was then received and read; Corpus Christi April 6th 1876 To The Hon Mayor and City Council Gentlemen: At a meeting of the Fire department 262 of this City, the following named members of the department were elected; Chief Engineer P. Southard; Assistant Engineer, R. H. Berry, and request that your honorable body com- mission the above at your next regular meeting. James Downing Chairman. Stanley Welch Secretary. And the commissions were on motion ordered to issue to the persons therein named. The Treasurers reports for the months of March, and April to date, were received, read, and having been reported correct by the Chairman of the Finance Committee, the report was on motion adopted. The Finance Committee through their chairman, reported the accounts of the Treasurer submitted to them at a former meeting correct and the report was on motion received and adopted. It was then moved and carried that Mr Hirsch, Chairman of the Finance Committee, be allowed to employ at the Expense of the City a clerk to make up a full statement of receipts and expenditures during the term of office of the present Council for publication, provided his own time is so occupied that he cannot do it himself. A vote of thanks was tendered upon motion of Alderman Hoffman, to Mr J. B. Mitchell, City Treasurer, which was seconded and unanimously carried. A petition from Wm Fullum, asking aid from the City, was read and on motion laid on the table subject to call. It was then moved and carried that the Secretary deposit the City ballot box in the County Safe. On motion this regular meeting adjourned to Thursday evening next at 8 Oclock. Attest Nelson Plato R. J. Denny Mayor Sec. 263 Regular Meeting of the City Council April 6th 1876 Present: Nelson Plato, Mayor; Aldermen_ Baldeschwiler, Evans, Downing, Reid, Hoffman, Hirsch & Berry. City Marshal, P. Whelan. Absent: Rogers and Doddridge. The minutes of the last regular meeting were read and adopted. A communication from the Central Wharf & Ware House Company, was presented and read, asking the Council to afford necessary Police protection to their property which was on motion referred to the incoming Board of Aldermen. The consolidated report of receipts and expenditures of the present Council was then read for the information of the Council. A bill of the Corpus Christi Times for $1678/100 for printing was then read and on motion ordered paid. A bill of $1000 was allowed and ordered paid to the Secretary for services rendered the Chairman of the Finance Committee in making up the accounts of receipts and disbursements for the past year. And also $200 per day for services in the registration of voters prior to the late election. His Honor Mayor Plato, then made a few remarks upon the retiring of the present and the induction of the newly elected Board of Aldermen, after which it was moved seconded and carried that this council now adjourn – Sine Die. His Honor the Mayor elect, Mr Wm Headen, then took the chair and after a few introductory remarks, and the presentation of his own, and also the oaths of office of the several Aldermen, proceeded to business; the following Aldermen being present and answering to their names; Cody, Ricklefsen, Reid, Downing, Evans, French, Hoffman and Baldeschwiler. A communication from Jos. FitzSimmons Esqr, declining to Qualify as a member of the Board was then read to the Council and upon motion, the consideration of the vacancy caused by Mr FitzSimmons declining to qualify was deferred to the next regular meeting. It was moved and carried that R. J. Denny be appoin- ted Secretary Pro Tem. The petition from the Central Wharf & Ware House Co was then brought up, when upon motion action thereon was deferred until the next regular meeting. It was then moved and seconded that Mr J. B. Mitchell be appointed elected Treasurer; this motion was unanimously carried. It was then moved that the election of Secretary be taken up. The following named persons were put in nomination Nelson Plato, R. J. Denny, and Geo E. Conklin, Aldermen Reid and French were appointed tellers of election and upon counting the vote it was found that R. J. Denny had 264 received five votes upon the first ballot and was accordingly declared duly elected secretary for the ensuing year. It was then moved and seconded that the consideration of adopting the General State charter for the government of towns and Cities be now taken up, after some little discussion it was moved to adopt said Charter at once, this motion was seconded and the votes being taken by calling the roll; each Alderman present voted for its adoption. The General Charter was accordingly declared the law of the City, to go into effect from and after its adoption. It was then moved seconded and carried that the election of Recorder be at once taken up, when the following named persons were put in nomination; J. R. Spann, N Plato, R. J. Denny, & Geo E. Conklin. Aldermen French and Reid were appointed tellers, and after three ballots were had Col Plato having received seven votes on the third ballot was declared duly elected Recorder for the ensuing year. The following Resolution was then adopted. Resolved, that the regular meetings of the City Council be held at the Market Hall on the second and fourth Tuesdays in each Month at 8 O clock P. M. His Honor the Mayor then announced the following stan- ding Committees On Finance – Jas Downing, P. Hoffman and Geo. French. On Ordinances – G. F. Evans, Dan Reid, and A. Baldeschwiler. On Streets – Jas Downing, A. Ricklefsen, and Jas Cody. Sanitary – Geo French, Dan Reid, & G. F. Evans. It was then moved seconded and carried that the Charter be printed. Amended by adding in pamphlet form and 500 copies struck off, The Ayes and no’s being called for, Messers Cody, Reid, French and Baldeschwiler voted no. and Messers Evans, Downing, Hoffman and Ricklefsen voted aye. it being a tie vote, His Honor the Mayor gave the Casting vote against it. It was then moved seconded and carried that a com- mittee be appointed to ascertain the cost of printing from one to five hundred copies Aldermen Evans, French and Reid were appointed the committee to carry out this action. The original motion was then called up as to having the Charter printed and was amended by motion to defer further action on the question until the next regular meeting. This amendment was seconded and carried The report of the Assessor and Collector for the Month of March was then presented and on motion referred to the Finance Committee. Alderman Downing asked leave of absence for three weeks or a month which was 265 on motion granted. The Council then on motion adjourned. Attest R. J. Denny William Headen Secretary Mayor. Regular Meeting of the City Council April 25th 1876 Present: Wm Headen, Mayor; Aldermen – Evans, French Cody, Riklefsen, Reid. Hoffman – Recorder Plato and City Marshal P. Whelan. Absent: Downing & Baldeschwiler. The Minutes of the last regular meeting were read and adopted. A petition, from H. Hamlin and another from H. Moreland for positions on the police force of the City were on motion ordered received. A receipt from the former Treasurer, Mr J. B. Mitchell to the former Mayor was received and on motion referred to the Finance Committee. A communication from P. McDonough District Clerk was then read relating to the Market Cases appealed to the District Court and on motion ordered filed. A report on the Public School matters was read and on motion ordered filed with the Secretary. The Committee to whom the printing of the Charter had been referred made their report which was on motion received and the committee discharged. It was then moved to have 100 copies struck off in Pamphlet form; amended by substituting 200 instead of 100, and also to have it published twice in the official paper of the City, this amend- ment was seconded, put, and lost. The original motion to print 100 Copies was then seconded, put, and lost. A bill of Jas. McGee for Copying records of the Mayors Court in the Cases appealed to the District Court was on motion taken from the table and a motion made to defer action thereon until the decision of the District Court was had. There was no second to this motion, and it was moved seconded and carried that the amount of his bill of $11.25/100 be allowed and paid. A bill of W. Power for $500 was on motion returned for correction. A bill of J. B. Mitchell for $525/100 was received and on motion ordered paid. The Communication from the Central Wharf and Ware House Co. was then called up when when it was moved 266 seconded and carried that the Ordinance Committee be instructed to prepare such Ordinances as will afford the protection asked for; and that the remainder of said com- munication touching the nomination and paying a special policeman from the Wharf revenues to be laid on the table. The Secretary was then on motion authorized to have two hundred and fifty blank Warrants printed. It being necessary under the Charter to elect a president Pro Tem to serve in the absence of the Mayor, Messers Evans and Downing were nominated. Aldermen French and Reid were appointed tellers and on the first ballot Mr Evans received five votes and Mr Downing two, a motion was made to declare the election of Mr Evans unanimous which was carried. The fixing of the Salary of Recorder, and all the various officers of the City was taken up; and on motion referred to the Finance Committee. It was then on motion carried that the Street Committee are hereby requested to report the necessary repairs and im- provements required to the City Cemetary. It was moved and carried that the Sanitary Committee be and are hereby appointed the health inspectors of the City and that a Health Physician be elected. Drs Ansell, Lawrance & Burke were nominated, Aldermen French and Reid were appointed tellers, upon counting the vote it was found that Dr Burke had received four votes, Dr Lawrance two votes and Dr Ansell one vote, Dr Burke was accordingly declared elected the Health Physician of the City and on motion his election was made unanimous No 1. The following Ordinance was then adopted. An Ordinance rela- ting to the carrying of and forfeiture of Be it Ordained by the Mayor and City Council that in addition Arms or deadly to the penalties already presented for the carrying of arms or weapons in the City. deadly weapons in this City, that such arms or deadly weapons shall also be forfeited to the City, and the Police are hereby authorized to search any suspicious or drunken persons, who may be suspected of carrying such arms or or deadly weapons. It was then moved seconded and carried that a Board of three appraisers be elected. Messers Doddridge, Buckley, and Gussett were nominated, the ballot dispensed with and the three gentlemen named were unanimously elected. It was then moved seconded and carried that a Committee of four be appointed by the Mayor to divide the City into Wards and report at the next regular meeting, Messers Evans, Hoffman Ricklefsen and French were accordingly appointed for 267 said purpose. It was then moved seconded and carried that the Fire department be requested to suggest to the Council such action regarding the establishment of Fire limits and other matters pertaining to the safety of property against fire in the City, as they may think best and advisable. A motion was then made and seconded to have the Charter printed twice in the Daily Times and 100 Copies in pamphlet form, the Ayes and no’s being called for, Messers Evans, French, and Ricklefsen voted I, and messers Hoffman Cody and Reid No, it being a tie vote Mayor Headen gave the casting vote in favor of it. Mayor Headen with Alderman Reid and Evans were then upon motion appointed a committee of three to prepare and present a report relating to the best action to be adopted by the City Council in procuring State Aid for the Construction of a break water with such recommendations as will best advance the interests of the City for said purpose. This regular meeting was then on motion adjourned to Thursday evening next at 8 O clock P. M. Thursday Evening April 27th Council met pursuant to Adjournment. Present: Wm Headen, Mayor; Aldermen – Evans, Cody, Reid, Hoffman – Recorder Plato, and City Marshal P. Whelan. Absent: Downing, French, Rick- lefsen & Baldeschwiler The Special Committee to whom the plan for obtaining State aid for the construction of a breakwater had been referred submitted their report which was on motion adopted The bill of W. Power for $500 was brought in corrected and on motion ordered paid. No 2. The following Ordinance was then on motion adopted An Ordinance estab- lishing the office of Be it Ordained by the Mayor and City Council that the Recorder Office of Recorder is hereby established for this City; and Whereas; under the provisions of the Charter adopted at the Regular meeting on the 6th day of April A. D. 1876 the election of Recorder on that date without previous enactment of the City Council providing for same, may be considered illegal, therefore Resolved, That we proceed to the election of such officer to fill the position provided for by this Ordinance. Col. Plato was then nominated and upon motion elected by acclamation. 268 The following Ordinance was then read and adopted Section No 3 by Section Ordinance for the Police Regulation of the Central Be it Ordained by the Mayor and City Council of the Wharf. City of Corpus Christi that all drays, hacks, carriages, or vehicles of any description, or persons on horseback passing over the Central Wharf, are hereby forbidden to drive or ride at a faster pace than a walk, and any infraction of this Ordinance shall be punished by a fine of not more than Ten Dollars for each and every offence. Sec. 2. Be it further Ordained that any drayman who by careless or reckless driving, shall injure or break any package of merchandise, shall be deemed guilty of a misdemeanor, and shall be fined not more than Ten Dollars and the horse and dray causing the damage shall be liable for said fine. Sec. 3. The City Marshal is hereby ordered to be present in person or by Deputy, on the Wharf while the Steamship is dischar- ging or receiving freight and to preserve order thereon, and to see that the Wharf is not obstructed by the Drays but that a sufficient passage shall be left for the expeditious handling and dispatching the freight, to the several owners thereof. It was then moved seconded and carried, that the same committee, vis; the Mayor, and Aldermen Evans, and Reid to whom had been referred the subject pertaining to the breakwater, prepare a petition to the Legislature of the State of Texas, for the enactment of such a law as will give to this City the required aid for the con- struction of a breakwater or Sea wall. A motion was then made seconded and carried that the Mayor be and is hereby requested to gather such information touching the opening of the public schools next fall, and to correspond with the proper State Authorities upon the subject, as he deems advisable for the promotion of said object. It was moved and carried that the Secretary be authorized to have the City Warrants bound in book form for their better preservation. It was then Resolved that the Assessor and Collector give notice in the official paper of the City to those persons who have not paid their Occupation Tax for the Quarter beginning on the 1st day of April that unless payment is made within ten days from the publication of the notice, legal 269 proceedings will be instituted for the collection of said tax On motion the Council then adjourned attest R. J. Denny Wm. Headen Secretary Mayor Proceedings of the City Council At a Regular Meeting on the 9th day of May 1876 Present: Wm Headen, Mayor; Aldermen – Hoffman, Cody, Reid, Downing, Baldeschwiler and French. Recorder Plato and City Marshal P. Whelan. Absent: Evans and Ricklefsen The Minutes of the last regular meeting were read and adopted. A petition from the Police force of the City asking an increase of pay was received and on motion laid on the table subject to call. A report from the Finance Committee recommending the amounts to be paid to the various officers of the City was received and on motion each one was taken up seperately and adopted as follows: Mayor No Salary Aldermen No Salary Recorder The fees of Office City Marshal $1000.00 pr annum Assessor and Collector Two and a half per cent for asses- ing and 2½ % for collecting. City Treasurer 2½ % for receiving, and 2½ % for disbursing all monies excepting the money from the Central Wharf & Ware House Company, upon which only 2% is to be allowed for both receiving and disbursing. City Secretary $30000 per Annum, with the fees of office to be fixed hereafter by the City Council. Engineer Pioneer Fire Co. No 1 – $90000 per annum and $5.00 pr month for ringing the bell at 7–a.m. 12– m. This was amended by offering to insert $6000; the amendment was put and declared lost upon which the Is and No’s were called for and resulted in Messers Downing and Cody voting I, and messers French, Reid, Hoffman, and Baldeschwiler voting no it was accordingly lost after which the original 270 amount of $5000 was awarded with the understanding that it should be increased to $6000 per month, providing the City Finances will admit of it. It was also moved seconded and carried ordered that the City Asses- sor make a complete assessment of the valuation of property as soon as possible, in order that the Finance Committee can approximate the receipts and fix the amount of expenditures for the present year. The report was then on motion adopted as a whole. Two letters from the Mayor, one to the Board of education at Austin upon public School Matters, and the other to his excellency Gov. Coke, upon the subject of Quarantine, through A. W. De Berry, were then offered and filed with the Secretary. The Committee appointed to solicit State aid for an appropriation for constructing a breakwater made a verbal report through their chairman of progress made, and asked further time, which was, on motion, granted, and the Committee empowered to call to their aid such assistance as they wished, to bring the matter properly before the State Legislature. Alderman Downing, with the Ordinance Committee, was then on motion, appointed a special committee to draw up rules of order and business for the future guidance and direction of the Council. The resolution passed at the last meeting relating to the collection of taxes was called for and read. The Recorder asked whether the Council would allow costs to the Court in cases where the charges are not sustained; when, upon motion, the fees were allowed in all cases tried before the City Court. And it was also moved and carried, that the Recorder be allowed to fix the hours for the daily sessions of the City Court. The Mayor was then authorized to issue a commission to the Chief Engineer, and also one to the First Assistant Engineer of the fire Department. The Mayor then called the attention of the Council to the general disposition of the people throughout the Country to celebrate in a becoming manner the 4th day of July next, it being the 100th anniversary of American Inde- pendance. When it was moved seconded and carried that the Mayor appoint a committee of three to take the matter into consideration and report a programme for the becoming celebration of the day in Corpus Christi. Messers Downing, French and Evans were appointed the committee for the purpose. It was further moved and carried, that the Mayor appoint three citizens to confer and cooperate with the Council 271 committee, and that he be allowed time to make the appointment of said committee. upon which the Mayor stated that he would like to select the Committee from amongst the oldest and best citizens willing to take an active part and interest in the cele- bration of the day, and who would cooperate cheerfully with the city authorities in their plans for its becoming observance. Upon Motion the Council then adjourned. Attest R. J. Denny Wm. Headen Secretary Mayor Regular Meeting of the City Council May 23d 1876 Present: Wm Headen, Mayor; Aldermen – French, Evans, Downing and Reid. Recorder Plato and City Marshal P. Whelan Absent: Hoffman, Cody, Ricklefsen & Baldeschwiler. The reading of the minutes was upon motion dispensed with. The two committees one of the Council, and one of the Citizens reported verbally the progress made in arranging for the centennial celebration on the 4th of July. The report as already published in the times was upon motion adopted. It was then moved seconded and carried that the whole matter be and is hereby recommitted to the two committees with full discre- tionary powers to carry out the plan. Recorder Plato and Mr G. R. Crafts presented their credentials as representatives from the Corpus Christi Base ball Club and Mr R. Paschal and J. P. Rodney presented theirs from the Custom house and Captn S. T. Foster and Mr E. A. Atlee were recognised as the representatives of the Star Rifles. It was then moved and carried, that the credentials be received and referred to the Joint committee collectively. The Rules of order for the government of the Council were then presented by the committee entrusted with the preparation of the same, and after being read by the Secretary were, upon motion adopted. The report of the Committee to divide the City into wards was presented and read by the Secretary, and upon motion action was deferred until Friday evening next. A bill of Thos Fields for $525/100 for work on the Streets, and for carrying off dead animals was allowed and ordered paid. A bill of $300 for digging a grave was allowed and ordered paid to Nicholas and Juan [Byestiro, Bejestiro]. A bill of Jerry [Warran] of $325/100 was referred back for the approval of the City Marshal. Upon motion this regular meeting was then adjourned 272 to Friday evening next at 8 Oclock. Friday Evening May 26th 1876 Council met pursuant to adjournment. Present: Wm Headen, Mayor; Aldermen – Evans, Cody, Downing, Baldeschwiler, Hoffman, and Reid. Recorder Plato and city Marshal P. Whelan. Absent: Ricklefsen & French The minutes of the last regular meeting were read and adopted. The Mayor then read An Act Entitled An Act to enable the City of Corpus Christi to construct a Sea Wall and Breakwater, to levy a tax and issue Bonds therefor, and to grant State aid to the Same by donation of lands. A motion was made and carried that the draft of the Bill as read be adopted and published as the local law, and our Representative be requested to use his efforts to have it passed. The report of the Committee districting the City into five wards was taken up and adopted ward by ward as follows Your Committee appointed to district the City of Corpus Christi into Wards, make the following report, and suggest the names of suitable presiding officers for the same. We also beg to call the attention of the Council to the fact that these officers must be appointed in May or earlier; and that their compensation as well as the compensation of two judges and two clerks for each ward must be provided for by Ordinance. (See Sec 4 City Charter.) Ward No. 1 – All that part of the City bounded on the north East by C. C. Bay; on the South by Mann Street, and on the Southwest by Broadway. Ward No. 2 – All that part of the City Bounded on the north by Mann Street; on the South by Lawrance Street on the east by C. C. Bay, on the west by Broadway. Ward No. 3 – All that part of the City South of Chatham and Lawrance Streets. Ward No. 4 – All that part of the City included within the boundaries of Padre, Broadway, Chatham and Carizo Streets. Ward No. 5 – All that part of the City not included in the aforesaid boundaries. All of which is respectfully submitted. And upon motion the following presiding Officers were appointed for the several Wards, to wit: First Ward Chas. Weidenmueller; polls at Court House Second “ W. B. Wrather; polls at City Hall Third “ C. Cahill; polls at the City Hotel. 273 Fourth Ward, R. Power; polls at the School House. Fifth Ward, J. H. Blain; polls at Blains Store. No 4 And the compensation of said officers was fixed by Ordinance as follows An Ordinance to fix the pay of presiding Officers and other officers Be it Ordained by the City Council of the City of Corpus Christi, that the at City Elections. compensation of the Presiding officers of elections in the different Wards shall be Five Dollars, that of the two associate judges $300, each, and that of the clerks Three Dollars each, for each and every election held in this City. Approved Wm Headen Mayor It was then moved and carried, that the Rules of order adopted by the Council for governing their proceedings, be published at once, and also that they be published with the Charter in pamphlet form for the guidance of the Council in future. The Secretary was on motion requested to prepose an index to be No 5 published in the pamphlet with the Charter. An Ordinance relating The following Ordinance was then adopted. to the fees of the City Secretary was then adopted. Be it ordained by the City Council of Corpus Christi that the Secretary be allowed a fee of fifty cents, for authenticating any document with the Corporate Seal of the City, and for copying any proceedings or other documents, twenty cents for each one hundred words; such fees to be paid by the person or persons making the application. Approved Wm Headen Mayor It was moved and carried that the sum of ten Dollars per Month be and is hereby allowed to David Larkin, a sick man, and that the Mayor be authorized to afford the necessary relief in any cases of the kind that may hereafter occur and report the same at the meetings of the Board as they may hereafter arise. A vote of thanks was on motion tendered to Mrs H. Taylor for her efforts to improve the grave yard. A petition was handed in signed by the property owners on Water Street and filed with the Secretary, and replied to by reference to the steps already taken in regard to a Breakwater or Sea Wall as embraced in the published act. A bill of Capt Jack Sands amounting to $500 for ringing the bell for one half the month of May was, on motion ordered paid. A motion was made and carried that a special committee of three be appointed by the Mayor, to ascertain upon what terms the City Hall can be purchased; and also the cost of Construction of a suitable City prison. Whereupon Messers Cody, Reid and No 6 French were appointed to carry out the motion. An Ordinance pro- The following Ordinance was then adopted. viding for renting City Market Stalls and relating to same Be it Ordained by the City Council of the City of Corpus 274 Christi That no Butcher or firm of Butchers or other parties shall hereafter be allowed to rent more than one stall in the City Market unless they can show to the satisfaction of the City Council at the regular meeting preceeding the semi annual renting of the Halls that their business requires more ample room, provided nevertheless that this rule shall not apply when all parties desiring stalls have been suitably accommodated. Approved Wm Headen Mayor It was then Resolved, That the Street Committee be and is hereby authorized to have holes dug or bored in order to drain off the water wherever found standing in the streets. It was Resolved, that the Council recommend Mrs H. Taylor as a suitable person to solicit further subscriptions and be entrusted with the improvement of the City Cemetary. The Assessor and Collector was on motion allowed two and one half per cent additional to the fees already allowed for collecting, making a total of five per cent for collecting, instead of two and a half as heretofore published. Alderman Downing was on motion relieved from the Street Committee until after the Fourth day of July. It was then moved and carried that the amount of Fifty Dollars be expended upon the City Jail to put it in a fit state of Security for the confinement of prisoners; said money to be paid out of fines collected and to be collected from the Recorders Court; and the Special Committee to whom the matter had been referred togather with the Recorder, were requested to see to and have the necessary repairs made at once. On motion the Council then adjourned. Attest R. J. Denny Wm. Headen Secretary Mayor Called Meeting of the City Council May 31st 1876 Present: Wm Headen, Mayor; Aldermen – Evans, Reid, Downing, Cody, and French, City Marshal P. Whelan; City Treasurer J. B. Mitchell, Doctor Burke Health Officer, and Recorder Plato. Absent: Hoffman, Ricklefsen, and Baldeschwiler A Secretary Pro tem being elected, the Mayor explained the object of the meeting, viz., to take into consideration the condition of the Streets and hear the views of the Sanitary committee thereon as also the report of the Health officer of the City, to the end that 275 necessary action may be promptly taken towards the adoption and execution of such sanitary regulations as will best secure the protection of the public health. Doctor Burke expressed his views fully respecting the absolute necessity of im- mediate action by the Council with regard to sanitary measures, which should be at once enforced in the City; whereupon the following resolution was offered and unanimously adopted, viz,. Resolved, that with a view to grading and draining the Streets, the City Engineer be instructed to furnish forthwith to property owners on the Beach part of the City between Belden and Laguna Streets, the established grades for the Sidewalks fronting their property, and that they be required to fill in and curb the same in accordance with the ordinance heretofore made and passed at the regular meeting on the 16th day of September A. D. 1875 (For Ordinance see proceedings page 236) It was moved and carried that the Committee on Streets be authorized in their discretion to contract at once for the filling up of all low places on the Beach part of the City. The Council then upon motion duly carried, adjourned. Attest. Wm. Headen Secretary Pro. Tem. Mayor Called Meeting of the City Council June 2d 1876 Present: Wm Headen Mayor; Aldermen – Downing, Hoffman, Cody, Evans, French and Reid; Recorder Plato and City Marshal P. Whelan. Absent: Ricklefsen & Baldeschwiler The Mayor stated the object of the meeting to be the consideration of the Quarantine Proclamation of the Governor and the appointment of a Health Officer to be stationed at Aransas Pass. The law relating to Quarantine was read, and a petition received from Dr T. S. Burke applying for the position. A motion was made and carried that the appointment be proceeded with at once. Nominations being in order Drs Burke and Lawrance were put in nomination, Aldermen French and Reid were appointed tellers and the election gone into by Ballot. It was moved and carried that the Mayor, in conse- quence of not having the casting vote in elections, be and is hereby authorized to vote for choice of Health Officer. Upon the ballot being counted it was found that Dr Burke had received four votes and Dr Lawrance three votes; Dr Burke was accordingly declared elected Health 276 Officer at Aransas Pass and upon motion duly seconded the appointment was declared unanimous. The Salary for the Health Officer was, upon motion duly carried fixed at $20000 per month and $5000 additional for boat hire and other expenses. It was moved and carried that the Secretary forward a copy of these proceedings to the Governor. On motion the Council then adjourned. Attest R. J. Denny Wm. Headen Secretary Mayor Called Meeting of the City Council June 10th 1876 Present: Wm Headen, Mayor; Aldermen French, Evans, Downing, Baldeschwiler, Hoffman, Cody & Reid. Recorder Plato and City Marshal P. Whelan. Absent: Alderman Ricklefsen. The Mayor stated that he had received from the City Treasurer a report showing that there was now and would become due during the Month of July $68370/100 in Bonds and interest thereon, and that provision should be made at once to meet the payment of them. The Assessor and Collector presented his tax roll as far as made up for the year 1876. The question of reduction of expenses was then discussed, and a motion made and seconded to reduce the Police force of the City, which was lost by the following vote: Messers, Hoffman, French, and Baldeschwiler voteing Aye, and Messers Evans Downing, Reid, and Cody voting nay. It was then moved and carried that the Finance Committee be and are hereby requested to prepare a full report of assetts and Liabilities of the City and present it at the next regular meeting of the Council. On motion the Council then adjourned Attest R. J. Denny Wm. Headen Secretary Mayor 277 Regular Meeting of the City Council June 13th 1876 Present: Wm Headen, Mayor; Aldermen Downing, Cody, Reid, Ricklefsen, Hoffman, Baldeschwiler and French Recorder Plato City Treasurer J. B. Mitchell and City Marshal P. Whelan. Absent: Alderman Evans The minutes of the last regular and subsequent called meetings were read and approved. The Recorders Report of fines imposed and collected in his Court, amounting to $12000, togather with the Treasurers receipt for the same were upon motion received and filed with the Secretary. A report of R. Hollub City Engineer; with bill of $5000 attached, and also a plot showing the projected grades, were pre- sented and the report read; a motion was made to refer the matter to a special committee; the ayes and noes being called, Aldermen Hoffman, Cody, French, Reid, Ricklefsen, and Baldeschwiler voted aye, and Alderman Downing Nay; the motion was accordingly carried and Alderman French, Evans, and Baldeschwiler were appointed as said committee. The report of the Finance Committee, showing the liabilities to be met during the Current year and the means for doing so, was presented and on motion referred to a special committee consisting of Aldermen Evans, Reid, and Mayor Headen. The tax roll was then presented by the Assessor and Collector. Upon motion duly seconded it was Resolved, that a tax of one fourth of one per cent, be imposed upon all taxable property, the same to be used in meeting the current expenses of the City. which resolution was unanimously carried; and the tax rolls were upon motion, duly seconded approved by a unanimous vote. The committee to whom the purchase of the Market property had been referred, asked further time, which was on motion granted. The following bills were then presented and warrants ordered to issue for their payment. Bill of the Corpus Christi times for $84.04 for printing; Bill of the Recorder for Costs in the City Court $24.25/100 ; Atkinson Bros for Coffin $525/100 ; Corpus Christi Gazette for printing $2.25/100 J. B. Mitchell for Iron for City Prison $2476/100 ; J. B. Mitchell for tools for street work $3.25/100 ; The bills of Costs in the Market Cases sent in from the District Court amounting to $440.90/100 were presented and on motion duly seconded the receipt of the bills was acknowledged, but action thereon was deferred until the next regular meeting, and the matter laid before the City Attorney 278 It was then moved seconded and carried that the Police force of the City be instructed to provide their own horses and equipments to do mounted service. It was then Resolved, That in all cases of misdemeanor tried before the City Recorder where fines and costs are imposed by the Court, that the City Marshal be authorized to receive as security for the payment of such fines and costs any species of property which can be made available by sale, to satisfy either in full or in part, such fine and costs; and that after the time for which any property is so pledged as security, has elapsed, the City Marshal be authorized to sell the same at public auction and apply the proceeds first, to payment of all costs, and the balance then remaining towards the payment of fines. This resolution was on motion adopted. The subject of the improvement of sidewalks was then brought up, and after discussion it was, Resolved, that the Ordinance passed requesting parties to curb their sidewalks to the grades as laid down by the pro- jected plan be reconsidered. This resolution was seconded and carried, and it was further Resolved, That the filling up of sidewalks be and is hereby indefinitely postponed, this resolution was seconded and carried. Attest Wm Headen R. J. Denny Mayor Secretary Regular Meeting of the City Council June 27th 1876 Present: Wm Headen, Mayor Aldermen – Ricklefsen, Evans, Downing, Baldeschwiler and Reid, Recorder Plato City Marshal P. Whelan Absent: Aldermen Cody, French and Hoffman The minutes of the last regular meeting were read and adopted. The following reports of the assessor and collector were presented and on motion filed with the Secretary. The money collected during the month of June amounting to $165397/100 . Report of Occupation for quarter ending June 30th 1876. Report of Occupation licenses issued for quarter ending June 30th 1876 Delinquent list on Occupation tax for quarter ending 279 June 30th 1876. The Special committee to whom the report of the Finance This report and commu- committee had been submitted, regarding the assetts and liabil- nication being so often ities of the City for the present year presented a new report Called for has been placed accompanied with a communication which are filed with on record on pages 426 the Secretary and marked and lettered as follows in red ink 427 428 & 429 of this Report D No 1. Communication D No 1. record book. It was moved and seconded that the portion relating to the pay of City officers be adopted and that part relating to the public free schools be deferred to the next regular meeting. The ayes and no’s being called, Aldermen Reid and Baldeschwiler voted Aye and Aldermen Evans Downing and Ricklefsen voted no the motion was accordingly lost. It was then moved and seconded that the report be adopted as a whole. The ayes and no’s being called for Alderman Evans Ricklefsen and Downing voted aye and Aldermen Reid and Baldeschwiler voted nay the motion was carried. The committee to whom the bill of $5000 of the City Engineer and Surveyor had been submitted reported the same back approved, and recommended that a warrant issue for the amount. The report was on motion adopted and the committee discharged. A communication from C. A. Beman, relating to advertising and printing City Charter with a bill of 11986/100 attached was on motion referred to the Finance Committee. A bill of Geo Hobbs amounting to $638/100 for groceries furnished to David Larkin was on motion allowed and warrant ordered to issue for the amount. The following committee on education was then appointed by unanimous vote of the Council; Mayor Headen Alderman French and City Treasurer J. B. Mitchell. A committee of three consisting of Alderman Downing, Reid and Evans, togather with the City Recorder, were upon motion appointed to devise ways and means to suppress gambling in the City. It was then Resolved, That the Ordinance relating to fire works be suspended during the 4th day of July, and that on said day fire works may be displayed at each of the following places The Artesian Square, below the old brick house of Capt King, and the public square on the bluff. The Recorder then named ten O clock as the hour for the daily sessions of the City Court, and the Marshal was instructed to be, either, present in person, or see that one of the Police was, daily at that hour. A fine of three Dollars was then entered against each of the absentees 280 of the Council, in accordance with the provisions of the Charter in such case made, and provided. The City Secretary was then authorized to invite proposals for the City printing, from July 1st 1876 to July 1st 1877, both for the Job work, and the regular proceedings and business of the Council; the bids to be made for the two combined and also for each seperately. The Mayor and Secretary were then on motion requested to forward a copy of the local law to Our Representative at Austin requesting State Aid for the construction of a Sea Wall or Breakwater in front of the City On motion the Council adjourned Attest R. J. Denny Wm. Headen Secretary Mayor Called Meeting of the City Council July 1st 1876 Present: Wm Headen, Mayor Aldermen – French, Evans, Downing, Baldeschwiler, Reid, Hoffman and Cody – Recorder Plato & City Marshal P. Whelan. Absent: Alderman Ricklefsen The Mayor stated that he had convened the Council to confer with them upon the following subjects 1st The Invitation extended by Capt Foster to the members of the City Council to be present at the inspection and review of the Star Rifles on the 4th of July. 2d The Reception by the City Council of visitors and invited guests, to the celebration on the 4th Inst. 3d The necessary arrangements to be made for the better preservation of the peace on that day. It was then moved seconded and unanimously carried that the City Council accept the invitation of Capt Foster and attend in a Body the review of the Star Rifles. It was also moved seconded and unanimously carried that the City Council, and Officers assemble at the City Hall on the morning of the 4th of July at 8 O,clock for the purpose of welcoming strangers and invited guests to the festivities on that day. The requisite authority 281 was then delegated to the Foreman of Pioneer Fire Co No 1 and the Foreman of Hook and Ladder Company to arm ten men from their respective bodies, for the better preservation of the peace on the 4th of July. It was then Resolved, That the City Secretary be and is hereby instructed to send a written request to each keeper of a Saloon in the City, asking them to preserve peace, order and quiet, in their respective places of business on the 4th Inst. On motion the Council then adjourned Attest R. J. Denny Wm. Headen Secretary Mayor Regular Meeting of the City Council July 11th 1876 Present: Wm Headen, Mayor Aldermen – Cody, French, Hoffman, Evans, Baldeschwiler, Reid and Ricklefsen. Recorder Plato City Treasurer J. B. Mitchell and City Marshal P. Whelan – Absent: Alderman – Downing The Minutes of the last regular and subsequent called meetings were read, and adopted. The following Resolutions offered by the Finance Committee were then read Resolved, that the Treasurer is hereby authorized to settle with the Central Wharf & Ware House Company for the year beginning Sept 1st 1876, and ending Septr 1st 1877 in the following manner: First. The Wharf Co, shall now advance and pay into the City Treasury One Thousand Dollars ($100000) as a loan without interest. Second. On September 1st proximo, upon settlement for the year past of amount of the note, (viz $297.02) due the City, and further sum due the city upon adjustment of accounts, if any, shall be deducted from said loan of $100000 and the balance due of said $100000 shall be allowed and paid back to the Wharf Co. from the City’s monthly Wharf Revenue, beginning in September, until said bal- ance shall be fully liquidated. Third. In consideration of said loan, the City agrees hereafter, to receive her Wharf revenue in monthly payment, the dues for each month to be paid to the 282 City on or before the (6th) Sixth day of each succeeding month. Fourth: This Resolution shall be in force, and take effect from and after its acceptance by the Wharf & Ware House Company. signed James Downing Chrmin It was moved and seconded, to divide the resolution adopting that portion relating to the settlement with the Wharf & Ware House Do., and to lay the remainder, or that portion relating to the borrowing of the One Thousand Dollars on the table; the Is and no’s being called for, Alderman Cody, Reid and Baldeschwiler voted I – and Aldermen French Evans, and Ricklefsen voted no, Alderman Hoffman declining to vote; the Mayor then gave the casting vote against it. A motion was then made to adopt the Report and Resolution as a whole, which was carried by the following vote; Aldermen French, Hoffman, Evans and Ricklefsen noting I – and Aldermen Cody, Reid and Baldeschwiler voting no. An Ordinance on Taxation was then offered, read and on motion referred to the following committee viz Aldermen Downing, Hoffman, French and City Treasurer J. B. Mitchell. The committee on the purchase of the Market property asked for further time which was on motion granted. The committee to whom the forwarding to Our Representative at Austin of the Local Law in referance to the construction of a Sea Wall and Breakwater had been committed, made their report, which was on motion received and adopted and the committee discharged. The following Resolutions were then offered and on motion adopted and ordered to be spread upon the minutes Resolved, That we deem it due to the people to make mention and record of the fact, that no disturbance of the peace occurred to mar the quiet enjoyment and celebration of the centennial 4th of July Resolved, That we have viewed with pleasure the equipments, drill and thorough discipline of our civic organizations, namely – in order of constitution – Pioneer Fire Company, Lone Star Hook & Ladder Company, The Star Rifles and Base Ball Clubs, May they ever mantain the Honor of the City of whose credit they have reason to boast and to whose good name they largely contribute. Resolved, That our thanks are due to the Joint and subordinate committees for the thorough manner in which they prepared for and caused to be celebrated the Centennial Fourth of July. Resolved, That we perpetuate the setting of the commit- ee on Orations, and Toasts until it shall have gathered 283 and published the historical data called for by it. And that we request said committee to embrace with said data a copy of the Oration prepared by Stanley Welch Esqr. Resolved, That we express our Simpathy and heartfelt regret for the sad accident which by a premature discharge of a cannon, deprived Mr Stanley Welch of his right arm. His deep and self forgetful interest, even in the agony of his suffering, prevailed and by his earnest and urgent requests, the celebration was contin- ued. Resolved, That our thanks are preeminently due to the Times and the Corpus Christi Gazette for the full and able reports made of the Celebration and the tutoring advocacy of the same by the press of the City. The Proposals for the City printing from July 1st 1876 to July 1st 1877 were then presented and read, and on motion referred to the following committee; viz Reid, French, and Evans, with instructions to accept the lowest bid. A petition from a number of citizens in relation to the improvement needed on Leopard Street was then presented, read, and on Motion referred to the Street committee, with instructions to purchase the shell for its improvement. It was then moved and carried, that the Treasurer be and is hereby authorized to pay such Bonds as fall due between this and the Month of October. It was further moved and carried that the Treasurer and Secretary prepare a list of all old City Warrants that have been cancelled, and present said list with the warrants, to the Council, in order that said old Warrants may be destroyed. It was then moved seconded and carried that Mr Givens be employed by the Mayor to enforce the collection of delinquent taxes, and that twenty five per cent of the collections be allowed for the services rendered. The following bills were then on motion approved and warrants ordered to issue for their payment. Bill of C. A. Beman for printing Charter $11996/100 and one hundred Pamphlets of the Same The Finance Committee of the General Centennial Committee reported a deficiency of $67.84/100 expended in the Celebration on the 4th of July and requested the City to issue a Warrant for said amount which was on motion granted. The Bill of McCampbell Givens and Atlee for $50000 for services in the Market Cases before the Hon District Court was allowed and warrants ordered to issue in monthly installments of $10000 each for the payment of the same. The bill of P. Hoffman of $4.30/100 for Oil, Lamp Wicks chimneys etc. The Bill of S. T. Foster of $10.00 for improvement on Carancahua Street. And a Bill of $1000 to the City Secretary for Extra work 284 It was then moved seconded and carried that the fines entered up against the Aldermen that were absent at the last Regular meeting be remitted. A motion was then made to reconsider the appropriation of $100000, as set apart for the use of the public Free Schools; this motion received no second and was not considered. The Council then on motion adjourned Attest R. J. Denny Wm. Headen Secretary Mayor Regular Meeting of the City Council Tuesday July 25th 1876 Present: Wm Headen, Mayor; Aldermen – Reid, Ricklefsen, French, Baldeschwiler, Cody Downing and Hoffman. Absent: Alderman Evans, Upon motion the reading of the minutes of the last regular meeting was dispensed with, Mr Chas. A. Beman was appointed by the Mayor Secretary Pro Tem A report was received from the Finance Committee on the subject of occupation taxes, asking further time, which was on motion granted. A verbal report of the Street committee, on the proposed shelling the continuation from Leopard to Lawrance streets was received, and on motion further time was granted said Committee. The committee to whom the City bids for printing had been referred, reported, verbally, recommending that the bid of the Daily times, it being the lowest and best bid, be accepted by the City. Upon motion the report of the committee was received and adopted; and the Daily Times selected as the Official Journal for the ensueing year. It was moved and seconded, that the Special Committee to whom the City printing had been referred, be instructed to prepare suitable bonds upon the part of the City Council and City Printer, for the faithful performance of the contract, Carried. Upon motion the Daily Times was given the job printing at current rates. A communication was received and read from Mr J Cardwell upon the subject of erecting a 285 windmill on the hill and digging a well for the purpose of supplying water for fire purposes. Upon motion the whole matter was referred to the fire department. Upon motion duly seconded it was Resolved; That the City Marshall and Police force of the City be and are hereby instructed to enforce the Ordinances regarding such practices as endanger life and property on the streets, especially in the careless playing, by heedless youth, of Street, Town, or Base ball, whereby an accident may at any time be caused and life and property endangered. No further business appearing upon motion the Council adjourned Wm. Headen Mayor Sec Pro Tem Regular Meeting of the City Council August 8th 1876. Present: William Headen, Mayor Aldermen: Reid, Cody, Evans, Ricklefsen & Hoffman. Recorder Plato and City Treasurer J. B. Mitchell. Absent: Aldermen Baldeschwiler, French & Downing, also City Marshal P. Whelan. A fine of Three Dollars was imposed upon each of the absent Aldermen. The Minutes of the last two regular meetings were read and adopted. The Assessor and Collector reported nine hundred and eleven Dollars and seventy nine cents collected during the month of July; the report was on motion received and referred to the Finance Committee. The City Treasurer presented the following reports; Debt Bond account, Fire Engine Fund Account and general fund account; all of which were on motion received and referred to the Finance Committee. The report of the Recorder for moneys collected in the City Court since his last report, amounting to $6600, was also received and on motion referred to the Finance Committee. 286 The Treasurer and Secretary appointed at a former meeting a special committee to prepare a list of all old City Warrants that have been paid and present the same with the warrants to the Council in order that the paid warrants might be destroyed, presented their report, with all the old cancelled warrants, and recommended that an arrangement be made with the Hook and Ladder Company to withdraw and cancel warrants numbered from #329 to 342 inclu- sive, for $70000, by agreement with said Company. The report was on motion received and adopted, ordered spread upon the minutes and published, with commen- datory mention of the faithful and efficient manner in which the report was gotten up. The old cancelled warrants, excepting those that have been issued and paid by the present City Council, were then destroyed by fire in the presence of the Mayor and Aldermen, togather with old Ship Channel Bonds that have been cancelled, numbered respectively 2, 3, 4, 6, 7, 8, and 9. The cancelled certificates for which Bonds have been issued were also destroyed. The Finance Committee reported the Ordinance on taxation correct and in accordance with law: on motion the report was received and the committee discharged. The report of Messers Doddridge & Davis, agents of Morris and Cummings, on the Ship Channel earnings and expenditures for the Quarter ending June 30th 1876 was presented, read and on motion referred to the Finance Committee. A communication from Mrs Belle Barnes, requesting the City either to buy her house or allow her to move it from the lot leased from the City, was then read and on motion permissions was granted to Mrs Barnes to remove her buildings and annul the lease. A bill of Geo. Wilmot for $7.00 was on motion allowed and warrant ordered issued for the amount. It was then moved seconded and carried, that Seventy eight Dollars and Seventy five cents, borrowed last year from the general fund and applied to the fire engine fund account, be now returned to said general fund account, from the Fire Engine fund account. It was then moved seconded and carried that a warrant issue to Thos. Murphy for $850/100 for services rendered as special policeman on the 15th day of February, 1876, to be endorsed on the back, “payable to the City Recorder to satisfy fine and costs in the City Court. A sum not to exceed thirty Dollars was then on motion placed at the disposal of the Recorder to be 287 applied to making a partition in, and a fence around the City prison: Said amount to be taken from fines collected in the City Court. It was then moved seconded and carried that the City Marshal be and is hereby directed to have the clock in the City Hall put in good repair and keep it regulated hereafter by the Regulator belonging to, and in the Store of City Treasurer, J. B. Mitchell. The Recorder asked leave of absence for a few days which was on motion granted. It was then moved seconded and carried that the City Secretary be and is hereby instructed to write to the Signal Service Bureau, through Our Representative in Congress, Hon, Gustave Schleicher, to furnish the City of Corpus Christi with the daily probabilities indicated during the months of September and October. On motion the Council then adjourned this reg- ular meeting to Wednesday (tomorrow) morning at 10 O’clock. _________ “ _________ Wednesday Morning August 9th 1876. Council met pursuant to adjournment. Present: Wm Headen, Mayor; Aldermen – Downing, Hoffman, French, Evans, Cody, Baldeschwiler and Reid: No 7 Absent: Alderman Ricklefsen An Ordinance Regulating Taxation Sec 1 Be it Ordained by the City Council of the City of Corpus Christi: That there is hereby levied on and shall be collected from every person or firm, or association of persons pursueing any of the following named occupations. an annual tax except when herein otherwise provided, on every such occupation or separate establishment, as follows: For selling spirituous, vinous, malt, and other intoxicating liquors in quantities less than one quart, Seventy five Dollars; in quantities of a quart and less than ten gallons Thirty Dollars. Provided that this section shall not be so construed as to include any wines or beer manufactured in this State or when sold by Druggists for medicinal purposes; and provided further, that this section shall not be so 288 construed as to authorize druggists to sell spirituous or intoxicating liquors, except alcohol. for selling in quan- tities of ten gallons and over, Fifty Dollars. For every Billiard, Bagatelle, pigeon hole, or Jenny Lind table, or anything of the kind, used for pleasure or profit, Twenty five Dollars. For Every nine or ten pin alley, without regard to any number of pins used; for profit, Fifty Dollars. For every foot peddler, Five Dollars. For every peddler with one horse or one pair of oxen, Twelve Dollars and fifty cents. For every peddler with two horses or two pairs of oxen twenty five Dollars; provided that nothing herein contained shall be so construed as to include travelling vendors of fruits or fruit trees, or goods or wares exclusively manufactured in this State. For every gift enterprise, Two hundred and fifty Dollars. Every person firm or corporation who shall sell anything with a promise either expressed or implied, to give anything in consideration of such sale and purchase shall be regarded as the proprietors of a gift enterprise. For every concert, theatre, or dramatic representation, for which pay for admittance is demanded or received, for each representation thereof Two Dollars and fifty cents; provided that theatrical or dramatic entertainments given by performers for instructions only, or for charitable purposes, shall not be herein included. For every circus where equestrian performances are exhibited for which pay for admittance is demanded or received, for each performance thereof notwithstanding more than one such may take place daily, Five Dollars For every menagerie, wax work, aerobats, or exhibition of any kind where pay for admittance is demanded or received, for each representation thereof Five Dollars. For every Hotel, Restaurant, Cook shop, Oyster Saloon or eating house, Twelve Dollars and fifty cents. For every Livery or feed Stable Twelve Dollars & fifty cents. From every public dray or cart drawn by only one animal, an annual tax of Six Dollars. From every public dray, cart or truck, drawn by two or more animals, an annual tax of nine Dollars. From every milkmans, bakers, butchers or market cart wagon or vehicle, not otherwise taxed for occupation an annual tax of Six Dollars. From every hack running on the Street for hire an annual tax of Six Dollars. From every person keeping a hall or room for rent or hire for public concerts, balls, exhibitions, etc., an annual tax of 289 ten Dollars. From every person firm or association of persons, discounting and shaving paper, or engaged in business as money brokers, an annual tax of Twenty five Dollars. From every life insurance company doing business in this City an annual tax of ten Dollars. From every fire and marine insurance company, doing business in this City an annual tax of five Dollars. From every owner or operator of a Daguerrian or such like gallery, by whatever name called, Five Dollars. From every Auctioneer an annual tax of twelve Dollars and fifty cents. From every person firm or association of persons keeping a barber shop, fifty cents for every chair therein at which a barber works. From every person firm or association of persons following the occupation of ship merchant, five dollars From every pawnbroker an annual tax of fifteen dollars From every commission merchant an annual tax of twenty five dollars. (The term Commission merchant shall be construed to mean any person or member of a firm or association of persons, performing for compensation any of the following services: Any person doing business as a ship or Steam boat agent, in collecting for compensation freight or passage money, ligh- terage and towage; or keeping a warehouse for storage of goods wares or merchandise, wool and hides and other produce not the property of such, and for compensation; or receiving or forwarding goods wares or merchandise for compensation, or buying wool or hides for others for pay, or, all combined.) From every land agent an annual tax of five dollars. From every travelling person selling or bartering patent rights, twenty five dollars. From every person firm or association of persons selling goods by sample card or otherwise five dollars. From every wholesale merchant, an annual tax of twelve dollars and fifty cents. From every first class retail merchant, an annual tax of twelve dollars and fifty cents. From every second class retail merchant, an annual tax of seven dollars and fifty cents. From every third class retail merchant, an annual tax of five dollars. From every fourth class merchant, an annual tax of two dollars and fifty cents. A wholesale merchant is one whose annual purchases, amount to one hun- dred thousand dollars and more; A first class retail merchant is one whose annual purchases amount to less than one hundred thousand dollars and more than 290 fifty thousand dollars; A second class retail merchant is one whose annual purchases amounts to less than fifty thousand dollars and more than twenty five thousand dollars; A third class merchant is one whose annual purchases amount to less than twenty five thousand dollars and more than twelve thousand dollars; and a fourth class merchant is one whose annual purchases amount to less than twelve thousand dollars. A merchant is any person or firm engaged in buying and selling goods, wares or merchandise of any kind whatever. From every practicing physician or surgeon, every dentist, and every attorney at Law, five dollars. Sec. 2. That all occupation licenses may be taken out and issued for a period less than one year, by paying a pro rata amount for such period; but none shall be granted for a less period than three months, and shall be made to terminate or expire at the end of each and every quarter, or at the end of the current year. Sec. 3. That if any person shall engage in any business or calling, avocation or occupation subject to license tax under this or existing ordinances, without first having obtained the proper license, he or she shall be liable to a fine of ten dollars for each and every day such violation of this ordinance may continue; and in addition may be imprisoned in the City Jail until obedience and compliance is yielded and license paid for; such imprisonment not to exceed fifteen days. Sec. 4. If any tax on real or personal estate be not paid before the 15th day of September next, the defaulting tax payer, in every case, shall be liable in addition to said tax, to pay as damage five per cent on the amount of such tax; and in every case of special assessment, when a tax payer shall fail, within sixty days after notice by the collector, to pay such assessment, the defaulting tax payer shall be liable to pay damages for his default at the rate of three per cent on such unpaid assessment for each and every month thereafter until final payment. All Ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict with this ordinance are hereby repealed. Adopted at Corpus Christi July 9th 1876. Approved by Wm Headen Mayor The following Ordinance relating to taxation on dogs and bitches was also adopted in the same order, to wit: Section by Section and as a whole 291 No 8 An Ordinance Sec. 1. Be it ordained by the City Council of the City licensing dogs & of Corpus Christi, that it shall not be lawful for any dog bitches. bitch, or any animal of the dog kind to go at large within the corporate limits of the City, whose owner or owners shall not have personally applied for and obtained a license or permit from the Secretary of the City and also have placed upon said dog or bitch a collar with a number corresponding with the license or permit so obtained, and shall be legibly marked. Sec. 2. That when any person or persons shall make application for a license as aforesaid it shall be the duty of the Secretary of the City to give the same, for which the applicant shall pay as follows; for each and every license or permit for a dog, one dollar and twenty five cents, for each and every license or permit for a bitch, two dollars and twenty five cents; for each and every license made out, the Secretary shall receive a fee of twenty five cents from the City. Sec. 3. That no butchers residing in or out of the corporate limits of this City shall be permitted to bring or allow their dog or dogs bitch or bitches, or any animal of the dog kind, to be in or about the market house excepting he or they shall have first complied with the provisions of the foregoing sections of this ordinance; and it shall be the duty of the City Marshal to gather up and destroy all dogs running at large contrary to the provisions of this ordinance, and for every dog so taken up the said Marshal shall receive the sum of fifty cents; provided that every dog so taken up shall be kept in some suitable place for twenty four hours during which time the owner or owners of said dog or bitch may reclaim them, and he she or they so reclaiming said dog or bitch shall pay to the City Marshal the said fee of fifty cents and to the City Treasurer the sum of three Dollars as a fine and to pay for the requisite license or permit which in such case the Secretary shall issue upon the payment of the fee or fine herein stipulated. Sec. 4. That it shall not be lawful at any time for any bitch in heat, whether previously licensed or not, to go at large within the corporate limits of this City. And it is hereby made the duty of the City Marshal, upon the appearance of any such bitch or slut in or about the public streets or places within this city, to forthwith cause the same to be shot or destroyed. Adopted at Corpus Christi July 9th 1876 Approved by Wm Headen Mayor Aldermen French & Downing were then released from the fine imposed on account of absence from the City at the time of the regular meeting, and Alderman 292 Baldeschwiler was excused and released on account of sickness. It was then resolved that the Mayor be and is hereby authorized to employ Counsel upon the best terms that he can effect, to enforce the collection of all back taxes. It was also moved seconded and carried that the Mayor appoint a committee of three to look after the City’s interest in and to the square known as the Artesian well square; whereupon the Mayor appointed Aldermen Evans, Downing and Reid. On motion the committee were allowed such assistance as they may require, and the Mayor was added to the com- mittee. On motion the Council then adjourned Attest, R. J. Denny Wm. Headen Sec. Mayor Report We, Your Committee appointed to arrange, file and present, all cancelled and paid vouchers of the City Council of this City beg to report as follows. First. We find that the following warrants and vouchers were issued, viz During Mitchells Administration From July 1st 1870 to August 5th 1872 two years and one month = 170 Warrants 3.929 24 During Doddridges Administration From August 31st 1872 to March 23d 1875 Two years and 7 months = 580 Warrants 24.297 42 Fire Engine Bonds 7.455 00 During Platos Administration From June 16th 1875 to April 13th 1876 ten Months = 205 Warrants 6535 29 During Headens Administration To date from April 25th 1876 to July 24th 1876 Three months = 46 Warrants 1668 05 Total 1001 Warrants & Fire Engine Bonds 43885 00 293 Second. Arranged per year we find as follows to wit, In 1870 = 6 months = 60 Wars #1 to 60 826 16 1871 = Full year = 62 Wars #1 to 62 1206 47 1872 = “ “ = 82 “ #63 to 144 3574 18 1873 = “ “ = 144 “ #1 to 144 7218 31 1874 = “ “ = 394 “ #145 to 493 13478 79 1874 Fire Engine Bonds 7455 00 1875 = Full year = 164 Wars #1 to 53 & #1 to 111 5791 61 1876 = Seven Months = 140 Wars #1 to140 4334 48 Total 6 years and 1 month 1001 Wars 43885 00 The foregoing is a full and complete list & account of all bills, Warrants and Bonds issued by the Council within the dates given viz July 1st 1870 & July 24th 1876, which are all paid and cancelled, and herewith presented filed in consecutive numbers for each year; excepting such as are given in the list to follow, which are still unliqui- dated. These paid and cancelled warrants & Bonds, Your committee have carefully examined & checked with double red checks in warrant book, and we recom- mend that they now be destroyed in presence of the Council, and that this report be spread upon the minutes. Third. List of Warrants and Bonds outstanding Fire Engine Bonds #3/5 Silsby Manfctg Co 3000 00 “ “ “ #1,2,3. #4/16 #20/24 City 1800 00 Debt Bonds 1st Series #1/12 excepting #1, 4, 7, & 10. paid 1638 77 Debt Bonds 2d Series #1/55 excepting #1, 6, 11, 21, 26, 36 & 41, paid 1999 19 Warrants of 1873 #113, 135, 140, 141. 16 75 “ “ 1874 #189, 210, 213, 291, 302, #324, 416, 428, 445, 460, 461, 483, 484 #493 & 329/342 L. S. H & L Co $70000 959 78 “ of 1875 #5, 11, 28, 29, 30, 48, 57, 86. 215 53 “ of 1876 #32/44 #46, 48, 49, 50, 52, 88, #124, 126, 127, 137. 413 09 Liabilities not including interest 10043 11 Or Due in 1876 Warrants out 1605.15 Fire Engine Bonds 100 00 Int on “ 104 00 Debt Bonds 29 00 Int on “ 29 00 1867 25 294 Amount due in 1876 Brot over 1867 25 Due in 1877 Fire Engine Bonds 1600.00 Int on “ “ 248.00 Debt Bonds 1037.45 Int on “ 360.90 3246 35 Due in 1878 Fire Engine Bonds 1400.00 Int on “ “ 152.00 Debt Bonds 1038.40 Int on “ 258.15 2848 55 Due in 1879 Fire Engine Bonds 1700.00 Int on “ “ 96.00 Debt Bonds 646.00 Int on “ 153.31 2595 31 Due in 1880 Debt Bonds 887.11 Int on “ 88.71 975 82 Total Debt and Interest $11533 28 Or Total Debt 10043.11 Total Interest 1490.17 $11533 28 This statement does not include accrueing indebtedness for which Warrants have not been issued, nor estimates for current expenses, but is a correct abstract from the Treasurer’s and Secretary’s books, showing the amount of old liabilities as they fall due. We recommend that an arrangement be made with Lone Star Hook & Ladder Company to withdraw and cancel Warrants #329/342 for $700.00 which it is impossible to pay this year without embarrassing the City finances, and a promise be given them to build them a house out of the Fire Engine Funds so soon as funds can be spared for the purpose Respectfully J. B. Mitchell } R. J. Denny } Committee Note, In 1870 no Warrants or Warrant book was kept. bills were approved by Mayor and Finance Committee & paid, cancelled and filed by Treasurer. In 1871. Warrants were issued, but no Warrant book kept. For these two years the cancelled war- rants herewith presented being complete as per enume- ration give positive evidence that none of these years are in existance unpaid. From 1872 to 1876 inclusive warrants were issued and registered in a Warrant book of Record. 295 Regular Meeting of the City Council August 22d 1876 Present: Wm Headen, Mayor; Aldermen – Hoffman, French, Evans, Downing, Reid, and Baldeschwiler; Recorder Plato, Treasurer J. B. Mitchell and City Marshal, P. Whelan. Absent: Alderman Cody & Ricklefsen, A fine of three Dollars was entered up against each of the absent Aldermen. The Minutes of the last regular meeting were read and adopted. The Finance Committee returned the report of Messers Doddridge & Davis, agents of Morris and Cummings, on the receipts and expenditures of the Ship Channel for the quarter ending July 30th, not approved. It was then moved seconded and carried; that the report be returned to said agents, requesting them to show by what authority the expenses of mantaining said Ship Channel the required width and depth are deducted from the City. The Finance Committee reported back, approved, the account of the Assessor and Collector for moneys collected during the month of June; which report was received and adopted. The Finance Committee also reported back, approved, the following reports of City Officers; Recorders report of moneys collected in City Court; Treasurers report of general fund account; Treasurers Report of Debt Bond account, and the Treasurers report of Fire Engine fund account. which reports were all on motion received and adopted. The Special committee appointed to look after the interests of the City in and to certain property known as the Artesian Well Square, submitted their report, which was on motion adopted and the Committee discharged. The Special committee appointed to adopt measures for the collection of back taxes asked for further time which was on motion granted. The bill of Costs in the District Court, in the Market cases, the same amounting to $435.90/100 , was on motion; ordered paid in six equal monthly installments. The Mayor then presented two warrants from the County Treasurer, showing amount of money paid from the State school fund to W. B. Lacy for teaching during the year 1875; which warrants were on motion ordered to be turned over to the City Treasurer. The Mayors Draft on the County Treasurer for balance of State fund to say $666.01, for the use of public Schools in his hands in favor of the City Treasurer, and the receipt of the City Treasurer endorsed thereon, was also received and filed with the City Secretary. A petition from Lorenzo Modino, asking for 296 position on the Police force of the City was then read and on motion laid on the table. A copy of the Mayors letter to Mr William De Ryee relating to the obstruction caused by the erection of a two Story frame building on Peoples Street, was then presented and read; when upon motion duly seconded It was Resolved, That the City Marshal be authorized to notify Mr De Ryee to remove said obstruction within (30) thirty days; and that he shall be subject to a fine of $1500 per day for every day thereafter that it remains. It was also further Resolved, That the Marshal be authorized to notify the owners of property in Block No 7, beach part of the City, fronting on Chapparal Street, that the fence erected by them and enclosing the sidewalk must be removed within thirty days; and that said owners be subject to a fine of $1500 per day for every day thereafter that said fence is allowed to remain. no 9. The following Ordinance was then adopted Ordinance relating to Fines in the City Court and Be it Ordained by the City Council of the City of Corpus defining duty of Christi, that in all cases of conviction for violation of any Marshal of the City Ordinances, where the offense is punishable by fine or imprisonment, it shall not be lawful for the City Marshal to release from custody any person convicted as aforesaid, without payment of the fines and costs assessed by the Recorders Court, except, when such fine and costs shall have been satisfied by imprisonment, or labor upon the streets, as heretofore provided. Approved by Wm Headen Mayor It was then moved seconded and carried that the Ordinance committee be instructed to draft an Ordinance defining a fire limit in the City. The following accounts were then presented and Warrants ordered to issue for their payment. Recorders Account of $26.75/100 for Costs in City Court where the complaints were not sustained; An account of Mrs Ann Allen of $5.00 for board of city prisoners; and an account of Lus Gaitan and Juan Rodriguez for digging a grave for a pauper. The Council then on motion adjourned Attest R J. Denny Wm. Headen City Secretary Mayor 297 Regular Meeting of the City Council Septr 12th 1876 Present: Wm Headen, Mayor Aldermen – Cody, French, Hoffman, Reid, Downing, Evans, & Ricklefsen; City Marshal P. Whelan, Absent: Alderman Baldeschwiler. The Mayor stated that Alderman Baldeschwiler was absent on business and asked that he be excused: which was, on motion granted. The minutes of the last Regular meeting were read and adopted. The usual order of business was then on motion suspended, and a communication from J. J. Dix and L. D. Brewster, relating to the order passed by the Council at its last regular meeting, ordering the fence on Chapparal street on Block No 7, Beach part of the City, to be removed, was then read, and after some discussion it was moved seconded and carried, that the time be extended for thirty days longer and the matter referred to the Street Committee. The Report of the Assessor and collector of moneys collected during the month of August, amounting to $13 was received and on motion referred to the Finance Committee. The Report of the City Secretary showing the number of Dog licenses issued by him up to date and the amount money collected therefor amounting to $3100, with the Treasurers receipt for the same, was presented read and on motion ordered filed. The Ordinance Committee asked further time in which to prepare an Ordinance defining a fire limit; which was on motion granted. The Mayor then stated to the Board that he had secured the services of Messers McCampbell Givens & Atlee in collecting the delinquent taxes, for 25% of the amount collected, and had closed the agreement with them; on motion the action of the Mayor was approved. A petition from Pioneer fire Co. No 1, asking the City to furnish the Company with 1000 feet of Leather hose for their Engine, was read, and on motion referred to a special committee of three, to be appointed by the Mayor, whereupon Aldermen Reid Hoffman and French were appointed said committee. A petition from J. J. Myers and Son, relating to the improvement of Leopard Street and filling up the Arroyo in in front of Block No 24, Bluff part of the City, was read, and a motion made to refer to a special committee; this motion was amended by a motion to refer to the Street Committee. The amendment was seconded and carried. 298 A warrant of $2.00 was then ordered drawn in favor of the chairman of the Street Committee for expenses incurred in draining off water from the streets in the upper portion of the City. The Mayor then informed the Council that he had received notice from the Board of Education at Austin Texas that the sum of $900.61/100 had been apportioned to this city for the use of public free schools up to August 31st 1877, and also presented the circular letter from said Board of Education, which was filed with the Secretary. A bill of Captn Jno Anderson for improvements on Water Street of $25000 was on motion laid on the table. The following bills were ordered paid: $3.50/100 to Jos. McKew for improvement of the Streets. $1.00 to P. Hoffman for cost of repairing the clock in the Market Hall. The Bill of the times for printing amounting to $58.66/100 was on motion referred to the Finance Committee. On Motion the Council adjourned Attest R. J. Denny Wm. Headen Secretary Mayor Regular Meeting of the City Council Sep 26th 1876 Present: Wm Headen, Mayor; Aldermen Cody, Hoffman, Evans, Downing & Reid. Recorder Plato and Marshal Whelan. Absent: Aldermen – French, Ricklefsen & Baldeschwiler; Sec. Denny & Treas. J. B. Mitchell. Upon motion Alderman Baldeschwiler & Sec. Denny were excused. Chas A. Beman was appointed Secretary Pro Tem Minutes of the last Regular Meeting were read and adopted. Alderman Downing Chrmn of the Street Committee, reported favorably on the petition of J. J. Myers and Son, for permission to construct a dam or roadway over the Arroyo on Leopard Street; and recommended that the property owners on each side of the Street to be benefitted to pay each one third of the expense, and the City the remaining one third. Upon motion the report was adopted. Alderman Downing Chrmn Street Committee sub- 299 mitted a report of R. Hollub, City Engineer and Surveyor, stating that the fences on Block 7 (Dix & Brewster) were 10½ and 9½ feet too far to the West, with the recommendation that the report be approved it was upon motion approved and a warrant ordered to issue to R. Hollub for ten Dollars for his services. Alderman Jas, Downing Chairman of Finance Committee reported favorably on bill of the Times for $58.66/100 . On motion the report was adopted and warrant ordered to issue for the same The special Committee appointed to consider the communica- tion of Pioneer fire Company, stating that 1000 feet of hose was necessary to make the engine effective in case of fire; recommended that on account of no funds being on hand the matter be laid over until such time as the required amount can be obtained. On motion the report was adopted and the Committee discharged. A petition was read from U. Lott President of the Rail Road Company, asking permission to cross the Arroyo at Mrs Lidwells Corner and establish a freight Depot on Broadway. A motion to grant consent was amended so as to refer to a committee of three, to report at the next regular meeting; seconded and carried. Whereupon the Mayor appointed Aldermen French, Evans, and Hoffman as such special committee A communication from Alderman Downing, referring to proper lines and surveys of lots, and obstructions on Streets caused by the erection of new buildings, and asking that an Ordinance be passed regulating the same. Upon motion, carried, the Council declined to so instruct the Ordinance committee. The following Bills were ordered paid: E. D. Sidbury & Co for Lumber $6.00 Atkinson Bros $2700 for Repairs on City Jail and fenceing Jail in, Reid & Conlan for Lumber Drayage and Carpenters work on City Jail $1913. W. H. Maltby for printing nine hundred blanks for Recorders Court $1800. Upon motion it was Resolved, That in view of the change of issue of the Times from a Daily to a semi Official weekly, that the Semi Weekly times be adopted as the official Paper - Journal of the City of Corpus Christi. Resolved, That upon recommendation of the City Marshal, the following hours are hereby designated, during which City Police men performing night duty shall be required to serve continu- ously, viz: from 7 O-clock evening, until 5 O-clock, morning; and the City Marshal is hereby charged with the enforcement of this regulation. Resolved, The City now having charge of the State School fund that on the approval by the Trustees of the accounts of Teachers of the Public School that the Secretary be and is hereby instructed to issue warrant for the payment 300 of the same, as for the payment of salaries of other City Officers. Upon motion the Mayor was instructed to confer with the city Attorney in regard to the enforcing the collection of back taxes. Upon motion the council then adjourned until Friday night next 29th Inst. Wm. Headen Chas. A. Beman Secretary Mayor Pro Tem Special Meeting of the City Council Septr 29th at 7 O.clock. Present: Wm Headen Mayor: Aldermen – Downing, Reid, Hoffman, Cody, Ricklefsen, Baldeschwiler, French & Evans; Recorder Plato Marshal Whelan and Treasurer J. B. Mitchell. The Mayor stated that the meeting had been called to consider the best course to be adopted concerning Quarantine. Several Telegrams were then read that the Mayor had sent off with the answers that had been received from Galveston & Rockport. Some discussion then took place relating to the subject, after which a motion was made seconded and unan- imously carried that the Council and Citizens repose full confidence in Dr Burke and believe that he will discharge his duty faithfully as Quarantine officer. Dr Burke returned thanks in some appropriate remarks for the com- pliment paid him, and the special meeting was then adjourned. Regular Adjourned meeting of the City Council Sep 29th at 8.Oclock. Present: Wm Headen, Mayor; And the full Board of Aldermen. Recorder Plato, Treasurer J. B. Mitchell & Marshal Whelan. The Mayor reported that in a conversation with Mr E. A. Atlee, of the Firm of McCampbell Givens & Atlee, City Attorneys, that Mr Atlee had given it as his opinion that no reason existed why the back taxes should not at once be collected; that the State Law had nothing whatever to do with the Municipal Law and was not intended to interfere with the City Law. On motion of Alderman Reid it was Resolved, That the City Assessor and Collector notify those persons in arrears for back taxes that unless said back taxes are paid in thirty days that their tax bills will be put in the hands of the City Attorney, with instructions to proceed and collect the same according to Law. The Mayor then called upon the citizens Present to give full expression to their views about the right of 301 way asked for by the Rail Road Company. Views were expressed for and against it, but no action was taken thereon either by the Council or Citizens. A petition from a number of Citizens relating to the bad condition of the Bridge on Chapparal Street was then read to the Council, and upon motion seconded it was referred to the Street Committee with instructions to act as they thought best in the premises. A bill of Geo Hobbs for $5.00 was ordered paid. Leave of absence was on motion granted to Alderman Baldeschwiler. The Selling of meat after Market Hours in the City Market was then brought up, and on motion referred to the Ordinance Committee. On Motion the Council then adjourned Attest Wm. Headen R. J. Denny Mayor Secretary Regular Meeting of the City Council October 10th 1876 Present: Wm Headen, Mayor; Aldermen – Cody Baldeschwiler Reid Evans Ricklefsen Hoffman and French; Treasurer J. B. Mitchell Recorder Plato, & Marshal Whelan Absent: Alderman Downing. The minutes of the last regular meeting, the called meeting and the adjourned regular meeting were read and adopted. The Treasurer submitted his quarterly report, which was on motion referred to the Finance Committee, with instructions to have it printed. The reports of the Assessor and Collector, of Occupation tax for the Second & third Quarters of 1876 of $130665/100 . The Ad Valorem, City Debt Bond, Fire Engine, and Poll tax collected and turned in to the Treasu- rer up to October 17. 1876 of $376977/100 and the report of moneys collected during the month of September, 1876 of $26910/100 were received and on motion referred to the Finance Committee. Warrants were then on motion ordered to issue for the following accounts. $21.01. to Ed Buckley for lumber used for the Fourth of July celebration. $50.00 to U. Lott for the 302 repairs of the Bridge on Chapparal street; $1815/100 to J. B. Mitchell for Warrant book of 1000 Lithographed Warrants, $13.00 to Headen & Mallory for telegrams. The following report of the Committee on the petition of the Rail Road Co., asking for right of way was on motion received; Corpus Christi Oct 10th 1876 To Hon. Mayor and Board of Aldermen of the City of Corpus Christi: Gentlemen – Your Committee to whom was referred the petition of the C. C. S. D. & R. G. N. G. R. R. Co., asking the privilege of erecting their Freight Depot on Block No 1. Bluff part of Central Wharf and Warehouse Co’s subdivision, and the right of way across any streets belonging to the City, from the present Depot, as is more fully shown by their petition and Map, presented to this Council and which are hereby made a part of this report, do recommend, That said petition be granted; provided, the Railway Company will enter into a con- tract with the City, binding themselves never to move said Depot nearer the Wharf or on the Wharf; under forfeiture of their buildings and the right of way to be granted; and further, that a map of the subdivision of the Central Wharf and Warehouse Co. be placed on file, and the streets as laid out declared the property of the City. Geo F. Evans Chairman Geo French. P. Hoffman Committee The following motion by Alderman Reid, was then put and carried: Moved that the report of the Committee be adopted, and that the matter be referred to an Attorney employed by the City, the expense of which shall be paid for by the R. R. Company; and that he be so instructed to draw the necessary contract in compliance with the report of the committee, with referance to the moving of said Depot any further within the city limits, or connec- ting their track with any Wharf or Wharves, or the exten- sion either by Steam or horse cars; and that said con- No 10: tract be subject to the approval of the City Council. An Ordinance The following Ordinance was then adopted Relating to the Be it Ordained by the City Council of the City of pay of City Corpus Christi, That the Occupation tax, togather Officers with so much of the Wharf Revenues as may be necessary be and is hereby set aside and made 303 a special fund to pay the Salaries of the City Officers ((to wit)) City Marshal, City Policemen, Fire Engineer, City Secretary & city printer, and also the rent of the City Prison. Attest Approved by R. J. Denny Wm Headen Secretary Mayor It was then moved seconded and carried that a committee be appointed to confer with the Recorder and prepare an Ordinance for the punishment of prisoners using obscene language and for other bad conduct, after being lodged in Jail, Aldermen French and Reid were appointed the committee. The question of the boundary of Block No 7 was then discussed at some length but the Council refused to change the position already taken. The present hour of the meeting’s of the Council was then upon motion changed from 8, to 7½ Oclock in the evening and to continue so until the last meeting in March. The Secretary was then on motion, instructed to furnish the Gazette with a copy of the proceedings of the Council. It was also moved seconded and carried that the City pay no more Rent for the Hook and Ladder Company until the Warrants issued to said Company for building them a truck house be returned and surrendered to the City. The Secretary was on motion authorized to purchase a copying book, blotting sheets, Brush, ink &c, at the expense of the City, to be used for Copying proceedings and other City business. On motion the Council then adjourned. Attest R. J. Denny Wm. Headen Secretary Mayor. Regular Meeting of the City Council October 24th 1876 Present: Wm Headen, Mayor; Aldermen – Cody, Baldeschwiler Hoffman, Reid, French & Evans; Recorder Plato, and Marshal Whelan. Absent: Aldermen Downing & Ricklefsen The minutes of the last Regular Meeting were read and adopted. The Finance Committee asked for further time to make their report upon the reports of the City Treasurer and 304 the Assessor and collector, submitted at the last regular meeting, which was on motion granted. A petition from the keepers of drinking saloons, asking the City Council for further protection in their business, was then read and on motion received. A motion was made to lay on the table; a substitute to this motion was offered by moving to refer the petition to the Ordinance Committee, with instructions to prepare an Ordinance relating to the matter, which was seconded and carried. A motion was then made to place the power of employing a lawyer to draw up the Contract between the City and the Rail Road Company, in the hands of the same Committee that the application of the R. R. Co for right of way had been referred to, viz Messers Evans Hoffman & French; which motion was seconded and carried. No 11. The following Ordinance was then adopted: An Ordinance to Punish Refractory Prisoners that are Be it Ordained by the City Council of the City of Corpus confined in the Christi, that any person or persons confined in the City City Prison Jail, who become disorderly by use of loud, obscene, or profane language, shall be subject to punishment by being placed in what is known as “the stocks;” and it shall be the duty of the City Marshal to provide at once the necessary means for enforcing the provisions of this ordinance. And the City Mar- shall is hereby empowered to inflict such punishment by confine- ment in “the stocks” as he may deem necessary to enforce obedience to the law from disorderly prisoners in his custody. Approved Attest Wm Headen Mayor R. J. Denny Secretary An Ordinance offered relating to trials by Jury in the City Court was on motion referred to the Ordinance committee. It was then moved seconded and carried, that a vote of thanks be tendered to Sheriff Beynon for assistance rendered the Mayor and City Police on the 18th Inst. It was further moved seconded and carried, that the Ordinance Committee be instructed to prepare an amend- ment to the Ordinance relating to the closing of Bar Rooms. And that they also be instructed to prepare an ordinance for the better regulation of the Public Free Schools. It was then Resolved, That hereafter all dead animals, found in the City, shall be removed beyond and North of the Salt Lake. The following bills were then presented and Warrants ordered to issue for their payment: A bill of Geo Hobbs for $999/100 for goods furnished Feliciaino Rios, a poor 305 consumptive, on the order of the Mayor. P. Whelans bill of $5.00 for work on the streets. A bill of $2.00, each, to Frank Atkinson and H. Hamlin, for services as special policemen on the night of the 18th Inst. Payment of an Old City Warrant, drawn in 1856, in favor of W. Worthington Johnson for $500 was refused, for the reason that it was endorsed paid on its back on the 18th day of the 10th month of 1871 (thus) “Pd 18th, 10, 71,” The Secretary was then on motion instructed to retain said Warrant in his possession, it rightfully belonging to the City. On motion the council then adjourned. Attest R. J. Denny Wm. Headen Secretary Mayor Called Meeting of the City Council Novr 6th 1876 Present: Wm Headen, Mayor; Aldermen – Cody, French, Ricklefsen, Downing, Evans, and Hoffman; Recorder Plato & Marshal Whelan Absent: Aldermen – Baldeschwiler & Reid. The Mayor stated that the meeting had been called for the purpose of taking such action as might be deemed right and proper regarding the public highways leading to and from the City, that information had been received that the roads were being fenced up and the travelling public put to great inconvenience in coming and going to and from the City. The following petition was adopted praying for relief and ordered to be presented to the Hon Judge of the District Court To The Hon District Court of Nueces County, - Your petitioners the City Council of the City of Corpus Christi, respectfully represent that the roads from Corpus Christi to Largatoville, to San Diego and to Laredo are obstructed by fences extending across them within this (Nueces) County so that the travelling public are prevented from convenient and free transit to and from the above named places. Furthermore, your petitioners represent that there are now but two open roads to and from this City free from obstructions, to say: via the Reef, to San Patricio County, and via the Petronilla crossing of the Agua Dulce creek towards Brownsville. At the present time the organization of Duval County 306 so affects the status of the Board of County Commissioners that we fear we cannot obtain timely redress from that authority; We therefore pray for such relief as may be within the power of the Hon Court to grant, so that the rights of easy and convenient ingress and egress may be afforded by properly opened public highways to the people whom we represent and to the general travelling public whose interests are involved in the prompt removal of the obstructions which exist. Done in the City of Corpus Christi County of Nueces and State of Texas at a called meeting of the City Council of said City, for the purpose of preparing the foregoing petition; which petition was ordered to be signed by the Mayor, and to be attested by the City Secretary, and so presented to the Hon District Court of Said County. Witness my hand in the City of Corpus Christi aforesaid this the 6th day of November A. D. 1876. Attest: {Seal} R. J. Denny Wm. Headen City Secretary Mayor On Motion the Council then adjourned. Attest R. J. Denny Wm. Headen Secretary Mayor Regular Meeting of the City Council Novr 14th 1876 Present: Wm Headen, Mayor; Aldermen – Hoffman, Downing, Baldeschwiler & Cody. City Marshal P. Whelan. Absent: Aldermen – Evans, Reid, French & Ricklefsen The minutes of the last regular and subsequent called meetings were read and adopted. The report of the Assessor and Collector, of moneys collected during the Month of October Amounting to $773.72/100 , was received and on motion referred to the Finance Committee The Assessment Rolls of Occupation tax for the Quar- ter ending December 31st, were also received and on motion ordered filed with the Secretary. The Recorders request for leave of absence for a short time, was received and on motion seconded and carried, the Office of Recorder was declared vacant. It was then moved that in view of the application of Col N. Plato for leave of absence, which has been granted 307 by the Mayor, and in view of the declared vacancy of the office of City Recorder by this City Council, that Geo. E. Conklin be, and is hereby nominated to fill the office of City Recorder for one month, and that the Council do now proceed to vote upon said nomination for the term stated; the vote was then taken and Geo E Conklin was elected unanimously. The Health officers bill against the State of Texas for $1250.00 for services rendered at the Quarantine Station, was received and on motion approved. The following bills were then presented and Warrants ordered to issue for their payment; The bill of H. Hamlin for $1300, for services as special policeman on the day and night of the 7th Inst. and also on the nights of the 8th 9th & 10th Inst. The bills of Wm Robertson and John B. Morgan, for $400 each for services as special policemen on the 7th Inst. On motion the Mayor with the Health Officer were appoin- ted a committee to confer with the County authorities and report a plan for taking care of the indigent sick. It was then moved seconded and carried that the Street Committee have full discretion to take such action as to them may seem advisable in carrying out the resolution of this Council relating to the fences on Block No 7, on the beach, fronting on Chapparal Street; that they are hereby authorised to employ Counsel and to use such part of the find imposed by said resolution as may be requisite to fee counsel and defray costs of court. It was then moved seconded and carried that all communications addressed hereafter to this Council must be written in ink, otherwise they will not receive the attention of the Council. It was then Resolved, That a warrant issue to a poor Mexican woman on the hill of $500 per month, until repealed. It was also moved seconded and carried, that the Ordinance Committee be instructed to prepare an Ordinance relating to the unloading of vessels and the transaction of business on Sunday by business houses, in this City. It was further moved seconded and carried, that the Mayor by Proclamation, recommend the observance of Thanksgiving day (November 30th) by the Citizens of this City. The sum of fifteen Dollars was then on motion allowed the Secretary for extra work that had been imposed on him by this Council. The Marshal was then on motion instructed to buy blankets 308 for the use of Prisoners lodged in the City Prison. On Motion the Council then adjourned Attest R. J. Denny Wm. Headen Secretary Mayor Regular Meeting of the City Council Novr 28th 1876 Present; Wm Headen, Mayor; Aldermen – Evans, Downing, Reid, Baldeschwiler & Hoffman City Marshal P. Whelan. Absent: Aldermen – French, Ricklefsen & Cody. The Minutes of the last regular meeting were read and adopted. The Mayor then offered the following communication and letter Corpus Christi Novr 28th 1876. To the Honorable City Council: Permit me to lay before you an anonymous letter addressed to Dr Sears and Trustees of the Peabody Fund Boston Massachusetts – from that Post Office it was forwarded to Hon. R. C. Winthrop, Brookline, Massachusetts. The envelope bears his endorsement “opened and forwarded.” It doubtless went from him to Dr Sears and from him to the Superintendant of Public Instruction of this State, from whom, without note of comment, it was sent to me. It has emenated from some evil person – it is the work of some, one, bad man. The composition is terse, and the orthography is correct. The envelope bears date as per post mark of Corpus Christi Post Office, October 28th. It is to be regretted that such an evil person has used the names of good men, to whom no blame attaches, or connection with his bad intentions can be alleged. Very Respectfully yrs Wm Headen Mayor The Letter Dr Sears The School at Corpus Christi is a grand scheme to get your money. Be cautious how you give any money to it. The Mayor is a fanatic, and the Principal of the School is an imbecile. The school itself is a failure and the public dissatisfied with it. It cannot last long. Act very prudent- 309 ly. Write to J. B. Murphy a lawyer here, about it, or to Dan Reid, a member of the City Council, before you pay too dear for your intentions to benefit the children of Corpus Christi, Texas, Which were, on motion referred to a committee of three and ordered to be made a part of the proceedings of this Council referred to Alderman Reid, Evans, and Downing. The committee to whom had been referred an Ordinance relating to requiring persons that demand trial by Jury in the Recorders Court, to deposit the jury fee, reported adversely thereon. On motion the No 12 report was adopted. An Ordinance in The following Ordinance was then adopted regard to selling Be it ordained by the City Council of the City of Corpus Christi liquors to Minors that it shall be unlawful for any person or firm dealing in spirit- and apprentices uous, vinous or malt Liquors, directly or indirectly to sell or give intox- icating or malt liquors to any minor, apprentice or habitual drun- kard, and upon conviction of any such offense, he or they shall be fined not less than twenty five nor more than One Hundred Dollars. Approved Wm Headen, Mayor The Mayor then stated that he and Dr Burke had waited upon the County Court in relation to the cases of indigent sick persons, and that the County Court had appointed a committee and would propose a plan for the care of such sick persons, in order that the City and County might act conjointly in the care of them. A warrant of Five Dollars per month, if, in the discretion of the Mayor it shall be found necessary, was then ordered to be issued to James Priour, a poor negroe. The Ordinance Committee were then on motion, granted further time to consider the propriety of adopting an ordinance relating to the loading and unloading of vessels and the opening of business houses on Sunday. It was then moved seconded and carried, that the matter pertaining to the Warrants issued to the Hook & Ladder Co. of $700.00, in fourteen Warrants of $50.00 each, be referred to the Finance Committee, to make some advisable arrange- ment with said Company relating thereto. On motion the Council then adjourned this Regular meeting until Friday evening next Decr 1st 1876. Friday evening Decr 1st 1876. Council met pursuant to adjournment. Present: Wm Headen, Mayor Aldermen – Cody, Reid, Evans, French, Hoffman, Baldeschwiler and Downing; Recorder Conklin and City Marshal P. Whelan. Absent: Alderman Ricklefsen The following bills were presented and on motion warrants were ordered to issue for their payment. 310 The bill of Wm Ohler for $17.75/100 for animals killed and carted away – under the Dog ordinance; The bill of A Ellison for $1.50; The bill of Sam Moore for $1.75; The bill of H Chapman for $200 all for hauling shell on the Streets; The bill of Alonzo Montgomery for $15.00, for nursing and care of a sick man with Scarlet fever – by order of the Mayor; the bill of Jas. E. Weymouth, for $6.75/100 for medicines for the same sick person – by order of the Mayor; The bill of H Muely for $615/100 for Stationary ordered by the Board; The bill of Noessel & Son for $8.00 merchandise for the use of paupers – by order of the Mayor; The bill of Alderman Cody for $2300 for repairs on the Streets was allowed and his action approved. Mr Le Franco, having been fined in the Recorders Court for violation of an ordinance relating to the sale of Fire Crackers, asked that his fine might be remitted by the Board, stating his ignorance of the law on the subject. On motion the fine was remitted. A petition from Mrs H. M. Conklin, asking the Board to sell one of the school lots to her, with the approval of the State Board of Education, was received and on motion referred to a special committee consisting of Aldermen Reid, French and Hoffman. It was then Resolved, That the Mayor and Secretary be and are hereby constituted the representatives and duly accredited agents of the City Council of this City, to sign such contracts or agree- ments as may be entered into by this City with any party or parties; provided always that said agents shall not sign any such instrument until it shall first have been approved and ordered in open Council. This resolution was seconded and carried. The committee to whom had been committed the preperation of a written contract between the City and the Rail Road Company, presented through their attorneys their report, with a sketch and general form of said contract, which was read and on motion approved. The Finance Committee through its charman Alderman Downing then asked the Board to repeal their action taken on the 2d day of September A. D. 1875, declaring the warrants that had been issued to the Hook & Ladder Company, null and void. upon motion, duly seconded, the action taken at that time was repealed and the warrants restored to their proper status. Recorder Conklin presented a report relating to the want felt by the Recorder in having a copy of the Ordinances for his guidance in the City Court; also the bad condition of the City Jail, Vagrants, and the inadequate police force of the City. After his report had been received 311 and the various matters therein contained canvassed, it was moved, seconded and carried, that the Secretary procure a book and copy therein all City Ordinances relating to misdemeanors and violations of Law and order, for the use of the Recorders Court; to be attested with the City Seal, and that he shall receive therefor twenty cents per hundred words. On motion the Mayor was requested to see and report the best course to be adopted in relation to a suitable City prison, either to be built purchased or rented. That portion of the Recorders report touching the Vagrant law was on motion referred to the Ordinance committee. On Motion the Council then adjourned Attest R. J. Denny Wm. Headen Sec Mayor Called Meeting of the City Council December 7th 1876 Present: Wm Headen, Mayor; Aldermen – Reid, Downing, Hoffman, French Baldeschwiler & Cody; Recorder Conklin Absent: Aldermen – Ricklefsen & Evans. The Mayor stated that the call had been made – First, to take into consideration the payment of a Fire Engine Bond and interest due on the 1st day of Jan. 1877 Second, The delinquent list on the Tax Rolls Third, A Report of the Recorder relating to the City Prison. Fourth, The condition of the Streets. The Fire Engine bond and interest was first taken up and discussed without any final action. The Delinquent tax matter was on motion referred to the City Attorney The improvement of the Streets was next taken up but no action was had. The Recorder reported that after buying wood stationary, etc, for the use of the City Court, he still held in his hands $2232/100 belonging to the City. He also submitted a communication which was on motion received and referred to the Mayor, empowering him (The Mayor) to take such action as he may deem best with regard to carrying out the recommendations therein set forth On Motion the Council adjourned Attest Wm. Headen R. J. Denny Mayor Sec 312 Regular Meeting of the City Council Decr 12th 1876 Present: Wm Headen, Mayor; Aldermen – Baldeschwiler, Evans, Reid, Ricklefsen, Cody & Hoff- man; Recorder Conklin and City Marshal P. Whelan. Absent; Aldermen French and Downing The minutes of the last regular and subsequent called meetings were read and adopted. The Report of the Assessor and Collector, showing $28592/100 collected and paid to the Treasurer during the month of November, was received, and on motion referred to the Finance Committee. Recorder Conklin then presented his resignation of the Office of Recorder, with detailed report of fines collected in his Court during the month that he has presided, showing the sum of $11150/100 of which amount $7132/100 was paid into the treasury as per voucher from the Treasurer accompanying the Report. The resignation of the Recorder was on motion accepted, and the office again declared vacant. Nominations being in order, Geo. E. Conklin was nominated and unanimously elected to fill the unexpired term. The Report of the Recorder was on motion adopted as a whole. The following bills were presented and Warrants ordered to issue for their payment. P. Hoffman – Bill for Can of Oil $200 Ed. Butler for hauling shell $100 Mrs Allen for Board of City prisoners $9.00 City Secretary for extra work $17.35/100 The bill of the Corpus Christi Gazette for $750 was on motion referred to the Mayor; And the bill of U. N. Atkinson for $1800 was on motion referred to the Finance Committee. On motion the Secretary was hereafter required to copy all ordinances relating to Misdemeanors, in the Ordinance book of the City Recorder. The following resolution was then offered, and on motion laid over for consideration until the next Regular meeting. Resolved, That the agent of the owners of the Market being present in open Council and representing said owners, the Contract between the City and said owners be so amended as to allow the Market stalls to be rented for one year from the first renting of said stalls, by public auction, in 1877. No 13. The following ordinance was then adopted. Ordinance in Be it ordained by the City Council of the City of Corpus Regard to Resisting Christi, That any person or persons resisting arrest the Officers in by the Marshal policemen or any City Officer, or aiding making Arrests any person or persons to resist arrest, or interfereing in any manner with the Marshal, policemen, or City Officers in the performance of their duties, shall be deemed 313 guilty of an offence against the City, and upon conviction, shall be fined not less than Twenty five nor more than One Hundred Dollars. The Mayor then notified the Council that Mr Chas. Wicks had been placed by him on the police force of the City for one month to fill the vacancy caused by the indisposition of M Hinijosa. on motion the above action of the Mayor was approved. An old negroe woman by the name of Clara made application through the Mayor for assistance from the City, and on motion the sum of $500 per month was allowed her. The committee to whom had been referred the application for the purchase of one of the Schools lots, asked further time to make their report, which was on motion granted. The Ordinance Committee reported that the Ordinances already adopted in relation to vagrants were sufficiently explicit, if put into force and effect by the officers. On motion the Council then adjourned. Attest Wm. Headen R. J. Denny Mayor Sec. Regular Meeting of the City Council December 26th 1876 Present: Wm Headen, Mayor; Aldermen – Cody & Reid. Absent: Alderman – Ricklefsen, Downing, Hoffman, Evans, French & Baldesch- wiler. There being no quorum. The regular meeting was adjourned until Wednesday evening Decr 27th 1876 Wednesday Evening Decr 27th 1876 Council meet pursuant to adjournment, Present: Wm Headen, Mayor: Aldermen – Cody, Reid, French & Hoffman. Absent: Aldermen – Ricklefsen, Downing, Baldeschwiler, & Evans The minutes of the last regular meeting were read and adopted. A report and communication from Col Plato the former Recorder showing the sums collected in the Recorders Court for the months of October and November amounting to $8400 with the Treasurers receipts for the Same were on motion received and referred to the Finance Committee. The Committee to whom had been referred the advisability of a sale of a portion of the School property 314 were on motion granted further time. The Committee to whom had been referred the preperation of a contract between the City and the Rail Road Company were on motion also granted further time. The following communication from Col Plato was then presented and on motion received. Corpus Christi Texas Decr 26th 1876 To the Mayor and Aldermen } of the City of Corpus Christi } Gentlemen: Referring to your action on 12th Inst., with respect to the Recordership, I would respect- fully state, that by your action at the previous regular meeting, held 14th Novr A. D. 1876, I was granted leave of absence for 30 days, or until December 14th inclusive. Your subsequent action, above noted, was had two days prior to expiration of my leave. It is true my return was delayed until 16th Inst, (Sunday) this making only two days interregnum, and this was occasioned by the bad weather solely. On inquiring of his Honor the Mayor upon my return, he informed me the action of the City Council was intended, in fact, for the “unexpired term” of the present Board of Aldermen. I submit now to your honorable body whether under the foregoing circumstances, a legal vacancy could be created? And further when a vacancy was declared (if at all) could such vacancy extend beyond the time granted in my leave, Instead of presenting the issue judicially, I have chosen to await the regular meeting of the City Council, satisfied that should you become convinced that from a full knowledge of all the facts, that injustice has been done, you will speedily redress the wrong. Very Respectfully, &c, Nelson Plato And after the matter had been fully canvassed, a motion was made to reconsider the action of the Council in electing Geo. E. Conklin Recorder. This motion received no second. The Mayor then reported back as correct the bill of the Gazette for $7.50 and a warrant was ordered to issue for its payment. A bill of the former Recorder for $2675/100 for costs in cases not sustained in the City Court was on motion ordered paid. Mr D. Hirsch one of a Committee of two on the part of the Wharf Company, stated to the Council that he was authorized to say that the Wharf Company had received an application from Pioneer Fire Company to buy one Thousand feet of hose for the use of the Fire Engine which 315 the Wharf Company would do, provided the City would appropriate one half of the Wharf revenues monthly to reimburse said Wharf Company for the advance made in buying the hose with interest thereon at the rate of ten per cent per annum. A motion was made to accept from the Wharf Company a sum sufficient to purchase 500 feet of hose, provided, said purchase can be made on ninety days time and that a committee, to be appointed by Pioneer Fire Company be, and are hereby author- ized to buy said hose for the City. This motion was seconded and carried. The Mayor then brought up the Ship Channel matter and spoke of some lost City bonds connected therewith, with a request from the Ship Channel Company that they might be allowed to publish a notice calling for the missing bonds in sixty days, and if not brought forward or found, that application would be made to the City Council to issue duplicates for said lost Bonds, the Ship Channel Company indemnifying the City by a good and sufficient bond against the presentation at any future time of the original Bonds (now lost) ever being brought forward for payment. The request of the Ship Channel Company was on motion granted. A motion was then made to reconsider the action just taken, in relation to the lost Bonds of the Ship Channel Company, and defer action thereon until the next regular meeting; which motion was seconded and carried. On motion the Council then adjourned Attest R. J. Denny Wm. Headen City Secretary Mayor Regular Meeting of the City Council January 9th 1877 Present: Wm Headen, Mayor: Aldermen – Reid, Cody, Ricklefsen, French, Evans and Downing; City Treasurer. J. B. Mitchell and Marshal Whelan. Absent: Alderman Hoffman & Baldeschwiler. The minutes of the last regular meeting were read and adopted. Letters relating to a fire Engine Bond from the Silsby Manufacturing Company and the Mayors reply thereto were presented, read, and on motion ordered filed with the Secretary. The Assessor and Collector presented his reports, one 316 of moneys collected during the Month of December of $375.64, and the other of Occupation Tax collected for the Quarter ending Decr 31st 1876, of $557.37 which were on motion received and referred to the Finance Committee. The Recorders report of Fines collected in the City Court, since the 15th day of Decr 1876 amounting to $47.25/100 was also received and referred to the Finance Committee. The City Treasurer was on motion granted further time to make up his report. Two communications from the Fire department accom- panied by a recommended Ordinance – One asking the adoption of the Ordinance, and the other, the furnishing more ample apparatus to the department for efficient usefulness, were on motion received. A communication, showing the officers elected in the Fire Department for the ensueing year and asking that they be duly commissioned was also on motion received. The contract between the City and the Rail Road Company was read, and on motion received. A motion was made to adopt the contract, the ayes and noes were called for, and Aldermen Reid, Cody, Downing Ricklefsen, French and Evans, voting aye it was accordingly declared unanimously adopted. A communication from the Mayor relating to the appointment of a meat inspector, and one from J W Dunn, upon the road law, were presented and on motion received Ordinance omitted here The Ordinance presented by the Fire Department was because returned and then taken up and adopted section by section and afterwards disapproved by the Mayor adopted as a whole. on account of one of its The officers that had been elected by the Fire department for provisions requiring the the various positions were all confirmed except P. Southard, Chief Chief and assistant Engineers Engineer, who is excluded by the provisions of the ordinance from to be owners of real Estate. holding the position. The communication of the Mayor relating to the inspec- tion of meat in the market was, on motion, referred to the ordinance committee. An ordinance appointing a committee and authoriz- ing the purchase of 500 feet of Hose for the fire engine, was No 12 then adopted as follows. An Ordinance authorizing the purchase of 500 feet of Hose for Be it ordained by the City Council of the City of Corpus the fire Engine Christi, That S. T. Foster, John W. Fogg and James M. Hunter representing Pioneer Fire Company No 1 of Corpus Christi be and they are hereby authorized, to purchase for the Steam Fire Engine now in use by said company not to exceed Five hundred feet of 317 hose, said purchase to be made on a credit of ninety days unless a cash discount can be made of at least 10% to parties advancing said sum. Payment to be made by Sight Draft on the Corpus Christi Wharf and Warehouse Company of this City. Be it further Ordained That to reimburse, and pay back to the Corpus Christi Wharf and Ware house Company any and all sums of money thus paid out by them for hose for the Steam Fire Engine of this City (not to exceed (500) Five hundred feet) one half of the revenues coming to the City Treasury from said Company, are hereby appropriated and set apart monthly after ninety days from this date, to be retained by the said Company each month month by month, and placed by them to the Credit of the City of Corpus Christi until the amount thus retained by them, shall equal the amount paid for said hose and 10% per cent per annum added thereto from the time of paying for the hose until they are reimbursed as aforesaid. Corpus Christi Tex } Approved January 9th 1877 } Wm Headen Mayor The communication of J. W. Dunn, already received was on motion referred to the Street Committee. A bill of the Corpus Christi times, for $1839/100 was received and a motion made to refer to the Finance Committee, which was amended by moving to lay the matter over until the City Printer files his Bond, as per his agreement to do; the amend- ment was seconded and carried. The ordinance Finance committee through its chairman reported back correct the bill of U. N. Atkinson for $1800, and a warrant was ordered to issue for its payment. It was then moved seconded and carried that the City Council rent the same room from Mr Atkinson for the use of the Hook and Ladder Truck for Three months. The matter relating to the lost Bonds of the Ship Channel Company was on motion laid on the table. A motion was then made and carried to refer the provisions contained in the Ship Channel Charter, to a Special Com- mittee of three to be appointed by the Mayor; whereupon Aldermen Evans Downing & Reid were appointed. The application of the Fire department for more and stronger apparatus was on motion deferred to the next regular meeting. On motion the Council then adjourned Attest R. J. Denny Geo. F Evans Secretary Acting Mayor 318 Regular Meeting of the City Council January 23d 1877 Mayor Headen being absent from the City Geo. F. Evans President Pro Tem took the Chair and called the meeting to order, the following aldermen answered to their names Reid, Ricklefsen, Cody, Hoffman, French and Downing Treasurer J. B. Mitchell and Marshal Whelan also present Absent: Alderman – Baldeschwiler The minutes of the last regular meeting were read and adopted. The Ordinance passed at the last regular meeting of the Council for the government of the Fire department was returned by Mayor Headen disapproved with his objections thereto stated. On motion it was laid on the table subject to call. The Report of the Treasurer, approved by the Finance committee, was presented, and on motion filed with the Secretary. The committee appointed to report on the advisability of selling one of the School lots, presented their report, recommen- ding the sale. On motion the report was received and the committee discharged. The committee to whom had been referred the Ship Channel matter presented their report, showing that the Ship Channel Company were required by the provisions of the contract to keep the Channel One hundred feet wide and eight feet deep. The report was on motion received. The report of the Street committee, to whom had been referred the communication of J. W. Dunn, relating to the road Law, was received and on motion adopted, and ordered published in each of the City papers. Sundry reports, submitted to the Finance Committee heretofore were reported back as correct. On motion the reports were adopted. A bill of Mrs Allen of $1800 for board of City prisoners was on motion referred to the Finance Committee. The bond of the City printer, was presented, with his bill of $1839/100 , and on motion referred to the Finance Committee to report immediately, and after retiring the committee reported back the bill correct, and recommended its payment, and the Bond returned to the City Printer for completion. The report was then adopted. The ordinance for the government of the Fire Department, with Mayor Headens disapproval and objections was then called up, and after it was fully discussed, was passed over the veto by the following vote. Reid, Ricklefsen, Cody, French and Hoffman voting aye, and Downing no, it was accordingly passed over the veto. Ordinance for 319 no 15. the government of Relating to the Fire Department Sec. 1. The Fire department of the City of Corpus Christi shall consist of the officers and members of the Fire Engine and Hook & Ladder companies now organized in this City, and of such other companies as may be hereafter organized and admitted to the Fire department, under the regulations hereinafter provided. Sec. 2. The Officers of the Fire department shall consist of one Chief Engineer, and as many assistant engineers as may be deemed necessary, to be elected annually, by ballot by the Fire department, on the Second Saturday in December, to be chosen from the members of the Fire department, and when so elected, and confirmed by the City Council they shall hold their respective offices until their successors are duly elected and qualified, and when any vacancy shall occur among the Engineers, by removal or otherwise, all the Companies composing the Fire Department shall meet and by ballot, select such person as they wish, and the name of the person so selected shall be sent to the City Council for confirmation, and if the City Council should refuse to confirm the person so selected, then they shall by ballot select some other person, whose name shall be sent to the City Council for confirmation; provided that no person shall be eligable to the office of Chief or Assistant Engineers, unless he shall have been a member of the Fire depart- ment for two years next preceeding the election, (and an owner of Real Estate within these corporate limits.) Sec. 3 There shall be elected annually by each Fire company at such time as they may determine from their own mem- bers, One Foreman, One First Assistant Foreman, One Second assistant Foreman, and such other officers as they may desire a certificate of which election shall be furnished by the Secretary of the Company to the Mayor, that the officers elect may be duly commissioned by him. Sec. 4. The number of active members including officers, belonging to each company shall not be less than twenty men, nor more than Seventy Five men, each of whom shall be duly reported to the City Council and the Officers commissioned by the Mayor, provided that each company shall have the right, at any time, as a reward for long service or other merit, to place upon a Roll of retired, honorary or exempt members, any member of said com- pany; whose name thereafter shall not be counted on the Roll of active members, but who shall be entitled to the benefits of membership without compulsory service or assessment; and provided that this section shall not conflict with the number of men allowed by the State Legislature to Chartered Companies. Sec. 5. In case of a Fire or other assembling of the Department 320 the Chief Engineer shall assume control and be obeyed in all things pertaining thereto, In the absence of the Chief the Senior assistant Engineer present shall assume his authority and res- ponsibility, the officers of the respective companies will yield prompt and cheerful obedience to the orders of the Engineer in charge, and the members of the Companies will in like manner, yield prompt and cheerful obedience to the orders of their Company officers. Sec 6 The Chief Engineer or the Senior assistant present and the Foreman of each Company, shall constitute a Board of Fire Com- missioners, vested with authority to investigate and adjudicate in all cases of irregularity insubordination or disorder arising at fires, or on other occasions, not coming under the jurisdiction of the company, in the department, as firemen, the action of said Board to be final, Said Commissioners shall also receive from any of the companies comprising the Department, com- munications on the subject of repairs required to the apparatus or buildings, or other wants of the companies, and submit the same, with their recommendations on the subject to the City council for their action. Sec. 7. When any new fire Company is proposed to be organized, a Roll of the proposed active members shall be submitted to the Board of Fire Commissioners, whose duty it shall be to forthwith ex- amine into the good character and capacity as firemen of the persons proposed; and on their favourable report, the Chief Engineer shall call a meeting of the Fire Department, and submit the application for their consideration, and on their recommendation to the City Council, said new Com- pany may be organized and admitted to the Fire Department and not otherwise. Sec. 8. It shall be the duty of the Board of Fire Commissioners at least once in every six months to make a thorough inspection of the apparatus, buildings or other public property, in the keeping of the various fire companies, to see that they are at all times kept in good condition and ready for use, and to make a full report of the condition of the department to the City Council on the first day of January and July in each year. Sec. 9. It shall be the duty of the City Clerk to keep, in a book to be provided for the purpose, a fire register, showing the names, date of election, and term of service of all officers and members of the Department, the data for which shall be furnished monthly by the Secretaries of the respective companies, giving the names of new members, and of any deceased, resigned, suspended, or expelled. Sec.10. The Fire Commissioners shall meet once in every six months to transact any business that may come before them, or oftner on the call of the Chief Engineer. Sec.11. The Engineers and firemen of Steam Fire Engines and Trucks 321 shall be appointed or removed by the respective companies, either by vote of the company or by the Foreman, as each Company may determine. The Foreman may suspend either of said employees for cause, subject to the approval of the Company, an appeal from such action may be made to the Board of Fire Commissioners whose decision shall be final. No person shall hereafter be ap- pointed Engineer of the Steam Fire Engine until he shall have passed an examination, which shall be certified by the Fire Commissioners. Sec.12. It shall be the duty of the Chief Engineer, or Senior assistant Engineer in command at Fires, to establish a post of observation, to be designated in day time by a red flag, and at night by a red lantern, at which post he shall remain during the progress of the Fire, and direct the operations of the department, except when his presence at some other portion of the field is temporarily indispensable. __________ ___________ The application of the Fire Department which was postponed at the last regular meeting was on motion laid over until such time as the City may be able to entertain it and comply with its requests. The Secretary was on motion instructed to notify the School committee, that after paying the Warrants to Teachers for the month of January 1877 that only $9761/100 would remain for school purposes. It was then moved seconded and unanimously carried that the School Committee be are hereby instructed to notify the Teachers of the Public free School that all religious exercises of whatsoever kind or nature must cease from this time in the Public school. A motion was then made to have certain fines remitted that had been assessed in the Recorders Court; which failed by the following vote, Reid Ricklefsen and Hoffman voting no, and French, Downing and Cody voting aye, the President Pro Tem then gave the casting vote against the motion. On motion the Council then adjourned Attest R. J. Denny Geo. F. Evans Secretary Acting Mayor 322 Regular Meeting of the City Council February 13th 1877 Present: Wm Headen, Mayor; Aldermen – Hoffman, Cody, Ricklefsen & Evans City Marshal P. Whelan Absent: Aldermen: French, Baldeschwiler, Reid & Downing. The Minutes of the last regular meeting were read and adopted. The Report of the Recorder from the 8th day of January to the present time was presented and on motion referred to the Finance Committee. The Report of the Assessor and Collector of Occupation tax collected during the Month of January, amounting to $53545/100 , was, on motion received and referred to the Finance Committee. A communication from Mrs Geo E. Conklin, accepting the School Lot at the price named, was, on motion, received and her proposition agreed to, the City in addition retaining a lien on the property. A communication from P. H. Lawler asking relief from judgement in the Recorders Court, confiscating a pistol belonging to him was received and on motion laid on the table. An appeal was then made to the Council by Catarino Lermo from a decision in the Recorders Court which was on motion refused. The Bond and contract of the City Printer was presented and ordered filed with the Secretary. The returns of the Corpus Christi Ship Channel Company, for the Quarter ending Septr 30th and December 31st 1876 were presented. Owing, however, to the current expenses having been deducted from the gross receipts, they were disapproved, and the said Company are notified to make returns for all current expenses heretofore deducted, with Bonds in full for same. The Secretary was on motion authorized to issue a duplicate warrant to L. Webber for one lost by him. The following bills were then presented and warrants ordered to issue for their payment: Mrs Ann Allen $15.00 for board of City prisoners. P Hoffman $2.50 for Can of Oil Atkinson Bro’s $500 for coffin for pauper. Vicente Garcia $100 for removing dead animals. Jas McKew $1200 for removing dead animals. McKenzie & Rankin $1.25 for repairs on fire alarm lamp shade. It was then Resolved, That the City Marshal be instructed to confine City Prisoners hereafter in the County Jail at the usual price, and the bills paid by the assessor and collector and presented to the council for approval. The Secretary was on motion instructed to notify 323 the agent of the building now used for city prison that the same would not be required longer than the Present month. The action of the Council at the former meeting forbidding religious exercises in the Public Schools was on motion recon- sidered. The Secretary was on motion instructed to have the contract between the C. C. S. D. & R. G. N. G. Rail Road Company and the City placed on record in the County clerks office of Nueces County The Assessor and Collector was on motion authorized to correct an error in the tax paid by Mrs Dunn for the year 1873 On motion the Council then adjourned Attest R. J. Denny Signed Wm Headen Sec Mayor On account of having upset my ink on this page it was taken out and a new leaf pasted in, and the proceedings carefully transcribed R. J. Denny Sec. Called Meeting of the City Council Feb 17th 1877 Present: Wm Headen, Mayor Aldermen Cody, Hoffman, Evans, Downing and Ricklefsen Absent: Aldermen French, Reid, and Baldeschwiler The following communication from Mayor Headen was then read. Corpus Christi Feb 17th 1877 To the City Council of the City of Corpus Christi Gentlemen – In order to avoid trespassing upon the rights of citizens by our own efforts now or hereafter to improve the condition of our streets, and that you may hear the protest of Mr Wm De Ryee against the work now under way in the vicinity of his property and with a view to prevent and avoid vexations an expensive litigation I have called a meeting of your Body to consider the questions rights and views involved in these matters. For my part I confess that it is not clear to me that the City has any right to in any way disturb the streets sidewalks or avenues, or to order the filling of lots or other localities, until 324 there is a standard, erected or determined, by which such work shall be done. For if such rights exist, then our streets, side- walks and lots are subject to the changing views or whims of every incoming Board of Aldermen, of each street committee, and of any City Marshal in charge of prisoners who are compelled to work on the streets. The City is subjected to the expense for such work of con- jectural utility either possibly good, certainly bad or doubtful, in view of contingencies which may arise. Therefore, I am of opinion that a specific grade or certain specific grades, suited to the several localities, should first be determined upon All street improvements should be made to conform to the same, and every new building should be erected in accordance therewith. other- wise, the work done is aimless, without conforming to any re- quirements, and no doubts can be enjoined. Our City is improving rapidly. The future is pregnant with the importance of this matter. Inattention and neglect now, may occasion the deaths of hundreds, the prostration of business, and impair the value of city property, by failure to properly grade, order and arrange your city in view of a denser population, and the greater probability of the visitation of epidemics. Respectfully Yrs Wm Headen, Mayor; And after the matter was fully discussed, a motion was made to refer it to the Street Committee. This motion was amended by a motion to refer it to the city Engineer and a special committee of three aldermen. The amendment was seconded and carried; whereupon the Mayor appointed Aldermen Evans, Hoffman & Reid said committee to report thereon at the next regular meeting. On motion the Council then adjourned Attest Signed R. J. Denny Wm Headen, Mayor Secretary Regular Meeting of the City Council Feb 27th 1877 Present: Wm Headen, Mayor; Aldermen – Evans, Downing, Cody and Hoffman City Marshal P. Whelan. Absent Aldermen – Reid Ricklefsen French & Baldeschwiler The Minutes of the last regular and subsequent called meetings were read and adopted. The Finance Committee reported back correct the 325 monthly report of the Recorder submitted to them for examination on motion the report was adopted. The Special committee on Street improvements presented the following report, which was on motion adopted. and ordered spread upon the minutes: Corpus Christi Feb 26th 1877 To the Hon. City Council of the City of Corpus Christi: Gentlemen: Your Committee to whom was referred the subject of the Street improvements now being made, having consulted with the City Engineer and Carefully investigated the matter, beg leave to report that they see nothing to dis- approve in the action of the Street committee, but consider that the plan that they have adopted of draining each block by itself, and thus making the improvement permanent as far as they go, is the only practical and efficient way to make their work of real and lasting benefit. As new buildings and improvements are constantly being put up, and in view of the fact that we may reasonably expect in the near future a large increase in our population and business, and the consequent erection of new and costly buildings, and in order to avoid much more diffi- culty and far greater expense hereafter, we would respect- fully urge your honorable Body to take steps at once to place our City upon a proper Sanitary and commercial basis, as far as relates, to the streets, by the establishment and adoption, as soon as practicable, of a grade or grades by which all future street improvements shall be governed, and that all buildings put up hereafter shall be made to conform to said grade or grades. We would recommend however, that owners of buildings already standing be not interfered with, nor compelled to conform to such grade until there exists a more imperitive necessity than at the present, as it would work much hardship and doubtless meet with strong opposition. In a few years and after the erection of many new buildings in the proper grades, owners of others would see the great advan- tage and be anxious themselves to make the required change, all of which is respectfully submitted Signed Geo F. Evans P. Hoffman Committee The following bills were approved and warrants ordered to issue for their payment: Bill of W. Power, of $2000 for repairs to sewer & fire well; of Emmett & Rogers of $5.50 for groceries furnished to a pauper; the bills of W. Ohler, M Hinijosa & Thos Basquez, amounting in the aggregate to $12.00 were on 326 motion referred to the Recorder for payment, if found by him to be correct. The Secretary having made known to the Council that he could not ascertain which Warrant had been lost by L. Webber, was ordered to issue a duplicate one of about the same amount now unpaid, and to so designate it that the same warrant will not be twice paid. It was then Resolved: That in view of the delay of the duly accredited officers of the C. C., S. D; and R. G. N. Y. Railway in coming forward to sign the agreement for the right of way to the present terminus of said Railway into the City, that said right of way will be cancelled, and the permission granted withdrawn, until the requisite signa- tures are properly signed and authenticated. The City meanwhile waiving none of her rights acquired by virtue of said agreement; provided nevertheless, three days, grace are granted to give said officers time to comply. The Street Committee are charged with the enforcement of this reso- lution. The deed to the School lot sold to Mrs H. M. Conklin, was on motion signed and sealed by the Mayor & Secretary, and ordered forwarded to the Board of Education at Austin for confirmation; and her note for the purchase money was filed with the Secretary until the sale is ratified by said Board of Education. The subject of establishing street grades was on motion deferred to the next regular meeting, and made the special order for that time. The Mayor read a letter from the Geneva National Bank, inquiring about the payment of balance due on Bond No 3. which matter was on motion referred to the Mayor. The following Election order was then issued The City Council of the City of Corpus Christi hereby orders an election to be held on the First Tuesday in April, next, for the election of the Municipal government of the and officers of the said City, for the established respective terms as prescribed by the second Chapter of the City Charter, To Wit A. Mayor Ten Aldermen to say Two from Each ward A Treasurer An Assessor & Collector A Secretary A City Attorney A Marshal and A City Engineer The following named places are designated, togather 327 with the presiding officers of [blotted out] the same, as the polls and presiding officers, for the respective wards of the City “To Wit” Ward No 1 – Polls at the Court House, Chas. Weidenmuller, Presiding Officer. Ward No 2 – Polls at the Market Hall, Wm B. Wrather, Presiding Officer. Ward No 3 – Polls at the City Hotel, C Cahill, Presiding Officer. Ward No 4 – Polls at the School House, Richard Power, Presiding Officer. Ward No 5 – Polls at Blains Store, J. H. Blain, Presiding Officer. It is made the duty of the Presiding officers of each ward to appoint two Judges and two clerks, who togather with the presiding officer, shall be managers of Election. Said Officers and Judges must be qualified voters in the City. It is furthermore ordered that the election conform to the rules established by the Second Chapter of the Charter of the City of Corpus Christi, to which aforesaid managers are cited for instructions. Furthermore A Special Election Is hereby ordered at the same time and at the same Polls, and under charge of the same officers, in order to determine by vote of the property tax payers of this City, whether they will or will not elect that this city shall have exclusive control of the Public Schools within its limits. The votes cast shall be For Exclusive control of Public Schools Against Exclusive Control of Public Schools By order of the City Council of corpus Christi Attest Wm Headen R. J. Denny Mayor Secretary The City Treasurer was on motion instructed to prepare the report in conformity with Sec. 137 of the City Charter. A Warrant of $1300 was then ordered to issue to the Mayor, it being the amount expended by him in the care and burial of one Feliciano Rios, a poor Mexican The Secretary was then on motion authorized to issue a warrant of $5.00 for the relief of paupers in very urgent cases, were the Mayor should deem it necessary and require it. The Ordinance Committee were on motion instructed to prepare an Ordinance as called for by Sec. 4. Chap. 2. 328 of the City Charter, regulating and defining the duties of Presiding Officers and Judges of City Elections. On Motion the Council then adjourned. Attest R. J. Denny Wm. Headen Secretary Mayor Regular Meeting of the City Council March 13th 1877 Present: Wm Headen, Mayor; Aldermen – Evans, French, Cody, Hoffman, Reid, & Downing. City Marshal, P. Whelan. Absent: Aldermen – Ricklefsen & Baldeschwiler. The Minutes of the last stated meeting were read and adopted. No 16 The following Ordinance was then on motion adopted. Ordinance for Be it ordained by the City Council of the City of Corpus the Government Christi, of Managers of That the Managers of Election shall take the same Oath the City Election and shall have and be governed by the same authority as managers of general State Elections, subject to the provisions of the City Charter and the ordinances thereunder. The annual reports of the Assessor and Collector were pre- sented by Mr Wm Robertson, when on motion a vote of commendation was unanimously tendered him upon their regularity and neatness, and the reports on motion were referred to the Finance Committee. The Street grades being the special order for the evening, was brought up, and the following ordinance No 17 was on motion adopted. Ordinance to establish and defi- Be it Ordained by the City Council of the City of Corpus nately mark the Christi, Street grades of the That the grade of the Streets of the plateau known as the City Beach part of the City shall be uniform so as to strictly accord with the profile made by R. Hollub City Engineer, and filed with the City Secretary, and indicated by the marks made and at this present time extant upon the houses, fences and posts throughout the City. All new buildings from and after this date shall be made to accord with the same, but houses now standing shall not be obstructed by the operations of this ordinance 329 The Street Committee shall cause to be erected at or near the centres of the first, second, and Third Wards, on said plateau, three brick monuments on Mesquite, Schatzell and Water Streets in order to permanently mark said established grade. It is made the duty of the Street committee to have charge of and continue to enforce the operations of this ordinance. A duplicate Warrant was ordered to issue to M. S. Culver in lieu of Warrant No 57, for $6225/100 and dated September 27th 1875, and by him lost, and the Treasurer was instructed not to pay the original warrant. An informal warrant No 29, for $7.80/100 in favor of Dan Reid was on motion approved; also informal Warrant No 136 in favor of City Secretary for $2000 was on motion approved. The following bills were then presented and warrants ordered to issue for their payment, of Geo Hobbs, for groceries $800 to Feliciano Rios; of P. McDonough, $625/100 for recording Contracts of the City; of Wilkin & Thompson $525/100 for repairs on lightning Rod on Public School House, to be paid out of public School fund; of Corpus Christi Times of $19.80/100 for City Printing; of J. B. Mitchell $1530/100 for tools for street improvement; of P. Hoffman $250/100 for Can of oil of P. Benson & Co $3.50/100 for clothing bought by City Marshal for Rogers who had his leg amputated. The bill of Peter Dunn for $2500 for repairs on the streets was reduced to $1188/100 and allowed for that amount to be applied to the payment of his back taxes. A bill of Mrs McComb of $979/100 for work on streets was on motion allowed, to be applied in payment of back taxes. The bill of Drs Spohn, Burke, and Hamilton for $4600 was on motion referred to the Finance Committee. The bill of the Corpus Christi Gazette for $1000 was on motion referred back for the authority to publish the report of the Street Committee except as minutes, it having been made a part of and embodied in them. A motion was then made and carried that the Mayor be authorized to confer with the County Authorities in the case of old Negroe woman Judy, and see what had best be done with her, and pending any action, to see that she is properly cared for. On motion alderman Hoffman was appointed a committee of one to confer with the lessees of the Market Hall Property for the purpose of putting s stop to the nuisance committed on said property; It was then Resolved, That the City Marshal be and is hereby instructed to notify all parties living near the termi- nus of the Railway and close to the Arroyo, that the 330 nuisance committed in that locality must be abated. The boundaries of the City Wards were then on motion ordered to be published with the election notice. On motion the Council then adjourned Attest R. J. Denny Wm. Headen City Secretary Mayor Regular Meeting of the City Council March 27th 1877 Present: Wm Headen, Mayor; Aldermen – Evans, Ricklefsen, Reid, Baldeschwiler & French; City Marshal, P. Whelan. Absent: Aldermen – Cody, Downing and Hoffman. The minutes of the last regular meeting were read and adopted. The Finance committee reported back correct the annual reports of the Assessor and Collector togather with those of the Marshal & Recorder. On motion the report was adopted. The Reports of the Assessor and Collector of Occupation tax collected for the quarter ending June 30th Septr 30th December 31st 1876 and March 31st 1877, were presen- ted, and on motion referred to the Finance Committee. An application from Dr Turner for the purchase of one of the School lots, was read, and on motion laid over for the action of the incoming Council. A petition from Jennie King and Ramona Garcia, praying that a judgement of the Recorders Court be set aside and they liberated from prison, was received, and on motion the fine in the case of Ramona was remitted, and she to be liberated upon paying the costs of Court. The Council declined taking any action in the case of Jennie King. The following bills were then presented and Warrants ordered to issue for their payment; Corpus Christi Times, of $4.53/100 for City printing; Emil Bayr $2.00 for repairing clock; Edward Carroll $150 for hauling off and burying dead animals; Lorenzo Modina $1500 for nursing and attending to Rogers for one month; Atkinson & Bro $500 for making coffin for a pauper. The bill of the New York Belting and Packing Company for Five hundred feet of hose for the 331 Steam fire engine, amounting to $47195/100 was approved in accordance with the Ordinance passed on the 9th day of January, 1877. A warrant was ordered to issue to Mayor Headen of $120/100 to pay for brooms for the use of the Public Schools. On motion the action of the Marshal in Suspending Martin Hinijosa from the Police force of the City for neglect of duty was approved and sustained. It was then moved and carried that the Marshal be and is hereby empowered to employ one man on the Regular Police force of the City in place of M. Hinijosa suspended; and to put on six extra policemen for duty on election day, at $250/100 for the days duty. The subject of Cock fighting on Sunday and passing an Ordinance against said practice was, on motion deferred for the action of the next Council. On motion the past absences of all aldermen were excused. The Council then, on motion adjourned to the first Thursday Evening in April at 8-O,clock Attest Wm. Headen R. J. Denny Mayor Sec. Regular adjourned Meeting of the City Council April 5th 1877 Present: Wm Headen, Mayor; Aldermen – Evans Cody French, Reid, Downing Hoffman and Baldeschwiler. City Marshal P. Whelan. Absent: Alderman Ricklefsen The Minutes of the last regular meeting were read and adopted. On motion the usual order of business was waived and the Election returns for City Government and officers were taken up Ward by Ward Aldermen Evans and Reid were appointed tellers and the following was found to be the result from the returns as presented by the Judges and Clerks of Election Mayor Ward 1 Ward 2 Ward 3 Ward 4 Ward 5 Total J. C. Russell 43 48 42 41 45 219 Geo French 22 43 48 24 13 150 City Attorney Jno S. Givens 62 93 82 57 61 355 P. H. McManigle 3 3 332 Ward 1 Ward 2 Ward 3 Ward 4 Ward 5 Total Assessor & Collector Wm J. Robertson 61 90 84 56 59 350 W. Brunkwell 1 1 Jos Dennis 1 1 Treasurer Ed Windisch 33 37 38 11 5 124 B Vineyard 11 24 15 22 27 99 P Southard 9 18 8 8 12 55 J R Peterson 5 6 17 6 11 45 J. B. Mitchell 3 6 7 9 0 25 E. H. Wheeler 1 1 Marshal P. Whelan 39 42 50 28 15 174 Lee Riggs 18 39 16 21 30 124 P Lawler 6 12 23 13 15 69 City Engineer L. Caldwell 61 88 80 58 57 344 R Hollub 1 1 Secretary R. J. Denny 53 58 66 46 27 250 Jas McKenzie 10 33 23 14 32 112 Public Schools Control of For 13 33 10 7 2 65 Against 24 8 12 18 2 64 Aldermen First Ward Benson 57 Rivera 8 Cody 69 Second Ward Headen 34 Weymouth 31 Young 57 Henry 53 Third Ward Doddridge 32 Berry 50 Downing 51 Rankin 36 Fourth Ward Gussett 55 Hall 48 Lott 9 Fifth Ward McLaughlin 52 Mussett 44 Dickson 9 The returns as presented were all adopted Ward by Ward and the following persons were unanimously declared to be the legally elected officers and City Government for the Ensueing year Mayor J. C. Russell Treasurer Ed Windisch 333 Assessor and Collector Wm J. Robertson Secretary R. J. Denny Attorney Jno. S. Givens Marshal P. Whelan Engineer L. Caldwell Aldermen First Ward - P. Benson and Jas Cody Second Ward C. W. Young and J. Henry Third Ward Jas Downing and H. W. Berry Fourth Ward N. Gussett and John Hall Fifth Ward A. McLaughlin and W. S. K. Mussett It was then moved and seconded that the Judges and clerks be allowed compensation for two elections one for the City Government and officers and the other for the special election. Aldermen Evans Cody French Baldeschwiler and Downing voting aye, and Aldermen Reid and Hoffman voting no. It was accord- ingly allowed and the Secretary authorized to issue the warrants for the service rendered. The reports of the City Marshall and City Recorder reported back correct by the Finance Committee at the last meeting and not acted upon at that time, they having been overlooked were on motion approved and the report adopted. The final Quarterly report of the City Treasurer (showing Balances from all funds in his hands to credit of the City $1738/100 ) was presented and having been already examined and approved by the Finance Committee was on motion adopted. The Report of the Recorder up to date was presented and on motion referred to the Finance Committee. The Finance Committee reported back correct the Occupation Tax report of the Assessor and Collector for four quarters, and on motion the report was adopted. 334 The bill of Drs Spohn Burke and Hamilton reported back by the Finance Committee approved for $4100 was by the Council disapproved and rejected. The following bills were then presented and Warrants ordered to issue for their payment; H. Mays 1.00 for hauling off dead mule; John B. Morgan $200 for police duty on the night of March 25th. And the bills of Geo Stephenson, T. A, Shaw, Pomiciano Villereal, Lawrence Dunn, Patt Larkin and Chas Vandervoort, all for special duty on election day, at $2.50 each for the service. A warrant was ordered to issue to Geo Hobbs for $5.00 for groceries furnished to a pauper on the order of the Mayor. The bill of the Corpus Christi Gazette for $1000 which was returned some time since for the authority by which the report of the Street committee had been published, was again presented, and that portion of the bill for advertising reward for Dog poisoners, amounting to $1.75 was allowed; the remainder laid over under the rule. Alderman Downing asked that the action of the Street Committee in granting permission to Mr John Fogg to put up hay scales near the front of his stables be approved, their action was on motion approved. The request of John Hall to put up a force pump in front of his Stove and hardware store was on motion granted provided no stock trough is placed there. The ballot boxes containing the ballots cast at the City Election were on motion put in the custody of the Dept Assessor and Collector until they can be safely deposited with the County Clerk. On motion this regular meeting was then adjourned until Monday evening next at 7½ O clock at which time the officers elect will present themselves, duly qualified for installation. Attest R. J. Denny Mayor City Secretary Regular Adjourned meeting of the City Council April 9th/77 Present: Geo F. Evans President Pro Tem Aldermen – Cody, Downing, Hoffman, Reid and Baldeschwiler. City Marshal P. Whelan. Absent: Aldermen Ricklefsen & French The minutes were on motion approved as published in 335 the official Journal of the City without being read The Finance Committee reported back Correct the report of the Recorder up to April 5th and on motion the report was approved and adopted: The following bills were then presented and warrants ordered to issue for their payment J. E. Weymouth $1.53 for medicines for pauper upon the order of the Mayor. Blumenthal & Jordt $3.50 for pair of blankets bought for sick pauper by order of the Mayor. E. J. Stoner $2100 for services as policeman for 13 days at the rate of $50.00 per month. On motion the Council then adjourned Sine Die Attest J. C. Russell R. J. Denny Mayor C. S. Adjourned regular meeting of the City Council April 9th/77 After the Outgoing Council had finished up their business and adjourned Sine Die J. C. Russell Esqr Mayor elect having qualified was welcomed to the Chair by Mr Geo F. Evans, President Pro Tem of the old Board. The newly elected mayor made a few remarks upon assuming the duties of Mayor of the City and upon the call of the roll the following elected Aldermen for the ensueing year presented themselves and were duly sworn in and qualified. Cody, Benson, Young, Berry, Downing, Gussett, Hall, and Mussett. L. Caldwell Engineer and surveyor was also sworn in and qualified. and then on motion the Council adjour- ned until Wednesday evening April 11th at 7½ O clock Attest J. C. Russell R. J. Denny Mayor Adjourned Meeting of the City Council April 11th 1877 Present: J. C. Russell, Mayor; Aldermen – Cody Benson Young Henry Gussett Hall McLaughlin Downing and Mussett. City Marshal P. Whelan Absent Alderman – Berry Aldermen McLaughlin and Henry were sworn in and qualified 336 The minutes of the last meeting were read and adopted The first business in order being the election of President Pro Tem, Aldermen Benson and Berry were put in nomination and upon the vote being taken Mr Benson received Five votes and Mr Berry Three. Alderman Benson was therefore declared the duly elected President Pro Tem. The Aldermen then decided by lot which should take the long and short terms for their respective Wards, resulting as follows: In the 1st Ward P. Benson drew the long term “ “ 2d “ C. W. Young “ “ “ “ “ “ 3d “ H. W. Berry “ “ “ “ “ “ 4 “ John Hall “ “ “ “ “ “ 5 “ A. McLaughlin “ “ “ A petition relating to laying Rail Road track across Water Street from E. D. Sidbury & Co. was then read and on motion referred to the Street Committee. Ten Applications for positions on the Police Force of the City were then presented and on motion the applications were referred to a committee of Five, to recommend from the number as many as may be required, of those best fitted for the position. Aldermen Benson Young Downing Gussett and Mussett, were appointed said Committee The Mayor then appointed all the Standing Committees as Follows. On Finance – Gussett, Henry, McLaughlin Benson and Downing. On Streets – Young, Mussett, Cody, Berry and Hall. On Ordinances – Benson, Gussett, and Young. On Sanitary Regulations – McLaughlin, Hall, Berry, Henry and Cody. The Secretary was then on motion ordered to return the book and vouchers handed him by the City Treasurer, and demand the return of his receipt for them and inform the Treasurer that until his successor qualifies that he is the proper custodian of these papers. On motion the Mayor was authorized to appoint a Special Committee of Five to fix the fees and Compen- sation of the officers of the City. The following Aldermen were appointed: Downing, Benson, Young, Gussett and Mussett, who were requested to report at the next meeting. The Bond of the Treasurer was then fixed at $500000) Five Thousand Dollars. That of the Assessor and Collector at ($300000) Three Thousand Dollars; and that of the Marshal at ($300000) Three Thousand Dollars The Ordinance establishing the office of Recorder 337 and providing for his appointment was then on motion repealed. It was then moved seconded and carried that a committee of Three (3) be appointed to investigate and recommend the proper action to be taken by this Council in relation to certain property donated to the City by Chas Lovenskiold Agent and Attorney in fact for Dr Levi Jones J Temple Doswell. Aldermen – Gussett, Henry, and Downing were appointed said Committee. A motion was then made and seconded that the Mayor be added to the Committee, this motion was put by the Secretary and unanimously carried. The Application of Dr Turner for the purchase of one of the School Lots was then read and a motion made to lay it on the table, which was amended by a motion to reject the petition; the amendment was seconded and carried. It was then moved and seconded that the Election relating to the City in assuming the Control of the Public Schools be set aside; which was amended by a motion to refer the matter to a committee of three, to report at the next meeting; the amendment was seconded and carried. Aldermen Henry Gussett and Downing were appointed the committee. On motion the Council then adjourned to meet on Tuesday evening next at 7½ O.clock. Attest J. C. Russell R. J. Denny secretary Mayor Adjourned Regular Meeting of the City Council April 17th 1877 Present: J. C. Russell, Mayor Aldermen – Cody, Benson, Young, Henry, Downing, Hall, Gussett McLaughlin and Mussett; City Marshal P. Whelan. Absent: – Alderman Berry. The minutes of the last meeting were read and adopted. The Committee to whom the applications of persons for positions on the Police force of the City had been referred, presented their report, in writing, recommending the following persons, to wit; Thos. Basquez, William Ohler, and P. H. Lawler. On motion the report was received and adopted. The Committee to whom was referred the donation of Lots to the City by Chas. Lovenskiold, agent and Attorney in fact for J. Temple Doswell presented their report in writing which is on file with the Secretary, On motion the report was 338 received and adopted. The Committee to whom had been referred the application of E. D. Sidbury & Co; for the privilege of laying an Iron track across Water Street, South of Cooper Alley, presented their report, in writing, opposing the privilege being granted, On motion the report was received and adopted. The report is on file. The report of the Committee on Salaries of City Officers was presented, and on motion it was taken up and the Salaries acted upon one by one, as follows. Mayor to receive no Salary, and only the fees of office while acting as Recorder, and no charge to be made against the City in cases where the defendants are acquitted. Aldermen to receive no Salary Treasurer to receive 1¼ per cent for receiving and 1¼ per ct for disbursing the public funds of the City. Assessor and Collector to receive 7½ per cent. for assessing and collecting, on those amounts only that are actually collected. City Attorney no Salary fixed. City Secretary, $30000 per annum payable monthly. City Marshals Salary of $90000 per annum, as recommen- ded by the Committee, was amended by offering a monthly Salary of $6000 with fees of office. The Ayes and Noes being called, Alderman Benson, Hall, Gussett, McLaughlin and Mussett voted Aye, and Alderman Cody, Young, Henry and Downing voted No. The amendment was carried and on motion adopted. City Engineer & Surveyor to receive $300 for surveying any Lot or part of lot in the City, to be paid by the person having the work done, and $800 per day when employed by resolution of the City Council, to do any public work. Engineer of Pioneer Fire Company, instead of a Salary of $50000 per annum, the sum recommended by the Committee was amended by substituting a Salary of $5000 per month, and $500 per month additional for ringing the bell. This latter clause was further amended by offering to substitute ten Dollars for ringing the bell, instead of five. The Ayes and noes were again called for, and Alderman Cody, Young, Downing, and Hall voted aye, and Aldermen Benson, Henry, Gussett, McLaughlin and Mussett voted No; the latter substitute was lost. The Original amendment was then put and carried City Policemen $5000 per month, as recommended by the Committee, was amended by adding thereto the fees of office. On motion the report as amended was then adopted as a whole, to take effect on and after the 1st day of May A. D. 1877. The Committee to whom was referred the matter of the late election relating to the City’s assuming control of the Public Schools within her limits, asked for further time which was on motion granted. 339 A petition from Mrs James [Gollege] asking that her City Taxes be remitted was on motion granted. On motion the Occupation tax and Wharf Revenues were then set aside and made a special fund for the payment of the Salaries of the Officers of the City. The Bond of the City Marshal and City Assessor and Collector were then presented and approved, and the Assessor and Collector was Sworn in and qualified. It was then moved seconded and carried that all resolutions authorizing the Secretary to issue City Warrants for the assistance and support of paupers be and are hereby revoked. The Secretary was on motion authorized to issue Warrants for the rent of the Hook & Ladder Companys truck house for an additional three months from the 15th day of this month. It was then moved seconded and carried that the Regular meetings of the City Council shall be held on the second and fourth Tuesdays evenings in each and every month. On Motion the Council then adjourned. Attest J. C. Russell R. J. Denny Secretary Mayor Regular Meeting of the City Council April 24th 1877 Present: J. C. Russell, Mayor; Aldermen – Cody, Benson, Young, Henry, Downing, Berry, Gussett, McLaughlin and Mussett; City Marshal P. Whelan Absent: Alderman Hall The Minutes of the last meeting were read and adopted. The Committee appointed at a previous meeting, to report on the late election relating to Schools, presented their report recommending that the ballot be sustained, and that fur- ther action relating thereto be dropped; on motion the report was adopted. A Communication from the Silsby Manufacturing Company in relation to balance due on Bond No (3) Three and still unpaid, was on motion referred to the Finance Committee. A petition from four of the City Butchers asking that the Ordinance relating to hogs and other animals running at large be amended, so as to suit their particular conve- niance, was on motion rejected. A memorial from E. D. Sidbury & Co., signed by quite a number of the tax paying Citizens, asking the council to reconsider their former action and to allow 340 Messers Sidbury & Co the right of way to build an Iron track across Water Street, was presented and on motion referred to the Street Committee, with instructions to refer the matter to the Wharf Co. for their endorsement. A petition from a number of Citizens praying the Council to reconsider their action in relation to reducing the Salary of the Fire Engineer was received and on motion laid on the table. The bill of Lorenzo Modino of $8.50 for care and attention to Rogers was allowed and a Warrant ordered to issue for its payment. The Bond of the City Treasurer E. Windisch Esqr was presented and approved. It was then moved seconded and carried that a commit tee of three be appointed by the Mayor to wait upon the Ship Channel Company and ascertain and recover the $500.000 in Dollar Bonds issued in 1858; also to request of the Company or its agents the bill of expenses in making the channel, and the amounts that have been received from it in tolls, and Land credited to the work; Aldermen Benson, Berry, and Downing were appointed the Committee. The matter relating to the purchasing or hireing a mule and cart for Scavenger purposes was on motion referred to the street Committee, with the request that they report at the next meeting. Aldermen Gussett, Cody, and Young were then appoin- ted a special Committee to investigate the matter relating to a City Prisoner being released from Custody from the County Jail and by what authority it was done. On motion the action of the former Council in appropri- ating $1000.00 for the public School was revoked. A motion was made seconded and carried to reconsider this action. A motion was then made to lay it over to the next regular meeting, and the Secretary was instructed to produce the order of appropriation by the former Board of Aldermen. The Secretary was then on motion authorized to index the minute book for more convenient reference. On motion the Council then adjourned. J. C. Russell Attest Mayor R. J. Denny Secretary 341 Regular meeting of the City Council May 8th 1877 Present: J. C. Russell, Mayor; Aldermen – Cody, Benson, Young, Henry, Downing, Berry, Gussett, McLaughlin, Hall and Mussett; City Marshal P. Whelan. The minutes of the last meeting were read and adopted. The usual order of business was then suspended for the purpose of taking up the resignations presented to the Council. The resignation of Alderman Downing was read, and on motion received and accepted. The resignation of P. Whelan, Marshal, was read, and a motion made to receive and accept; amended by a motion to accept it from the day the resignation was handed to the Secretary. The ayes and noes were called and the amendment carried by the following vote: Benson, Berry, McLaughlin and Mussett, voting aye; Cody, Henry, and Hall, voting no. The report of the Assessor and Collector, of occupation tax collected during the month of April, amounting to $235.00 was read and on motion received and accepted. The following report of the committee appointed to investigate the matters pertaining to the Ship Channel, was read and on motion received and adopted. To the Honorable Mayor and Board of Aldermen of the City of Corpus Christi. Your Committee to whom was left the matter of the cost of the Ship Channel, its indebtedness, liabilities, the whereabouts of the Bonds, how many redeemed, &tc., beg leave respectfully to report,- That we called on Messers Doddridge & Davis, the agents of the Ship Channel Company, in referance to the matter. They replied that they knew nothing of the cost of said channel; that Morris and Cummings of New York, are the proper persons to give the desired information – that they are the holders of the Bonds &c Your Committee would respectfully recommend that im- mediate steps be taken to investigate the matter and have a full and clear statement made, that the City of Corpus Christi may know its proper interest and liabilities. Your Committee would further recommend that a compe- tant accountant be employed by the City to make up a full and clear statement and account of the matters herein stated, and that the Mayor be authorized to employ said accountant and to fix the amount of compensation for such service, subject to the approval of the City Council. Respectfully submitted H. W. Berry P. Benson Committee The report of the Committee on the application of E. D. Sidbury 342 & Co. was then read, and on motion the report was received and adopted. Three reports of the Ship Channel Company were then presented as follows; One for the Quarter ending Septr 30th 1876. One for the Quarter ending Decr 31st 1876, and one for the Quarter ending March 31st 1877. A motion was made to reject the reports until the Company should comply with the terms of the Contract and the City Ordinances relating thereto. This motion was amended by a motion to return the reports for correction, which was seconded and carried. The copy of a letter written by the Mayor to the Silsby Manu- facturing Co., relating to unpaid Bond No 3, was read to the Council and filed with the Secretary. Mr Saml Shoemaker then made known to the Council, through Alderman Young, that he would accept the position of fire Engineer at the price named by the Board. The following bills were then presented and Warrants ordered to issue for their payment: P. Lawler for nine days services as policeman $15.00; R. B. Hart, Three nights as special Policeman, $5.00. The following bills were referred to the Finance Committee; Sheriff Beynon, $36.15/100 . Mrs Ann Allen, $19.00 both for the board of City prisoners; P. Whelan $1600 for Services as Marshal for eight days; and E. Butler $100 for drayage. The bill of Mrs F. J. Weymouth made out against the City of Corpus Christi for services as teacher in the public school for the month of April, was on motion rejected by the following vote, the ayes and Noes being called; – Cody, Benson, Berry, Hall, Gussett, McLaughlin and Mussett voting aye, and Young and Henry voting no. It was then moved and seconded that the order of the former Board, in setting aside $1000.00 for the use of Public free Schools, by the adoption of the report of a committee, be and is hereby revoked; carried unanimously. A petition from the market gardeners residing near the City asking the repeal of the Ordinance imposing a market tax on them, was then received, and on motion referred to a special committee of one from each Ward, viz: Gussett, McLaughlin, Cody, Henry and Berry. A second petition from E. D. Sidbury & Co. asking the right of way across water Street, with a map of the city accompanying the same, was presented through their agent and attorney in fact. P. H. McManigle, and on motion was laid on the table. A petition from Geo Gould, asking to be relieved from his City taxes, and for the payment of an improvement on Water street, was then presented, and on motion laid on the table. Two petitions from Draymen, asking permission to do the scavenger work of the City were presented – one offering at $45.00 per month and the other offering at $6000 per month 343 a motion was made to reject the offers, which was amended by a motion to refer to the same Committee that had the matter in charge, and grant further time; the amendment was seconded and carried. A petition from the first assistant foreman of the Hook & Ladder Company, asking the Council to furnish them with another house for their apparatus, they having been notified that the one now occupied would be required for other purposes, was presented and a motion made to allow $1500 or so much thereof as would be necessary, to put the room designated in repair; amended by a proposition to appropriate $30000 to aid the Hook and Ladder Co. to put up a building; lost. A substitute was then offered for the original motion, to refer the matter to a special committee; seconded and carried. The Mayor appointed Aldermen Gussett, Henry and Benson as such committee. A petition from the Draymen of the City asking that an Ordinance be passed defining the duties and responsibilities of draymen, and requiring them to give Bond and Security for the performance of their duties, was presented, and on motion referred to the Ordinance Committee. The following preamble and resolutions were then offered Ship Channel by Alderman Berry. Ordinance Whereas, By the 7th section of the Charter of the City of Corpus Christi, approved February 1854, the Mayor and Aldermen of said City were authorized to construct a Ship Channel between Corpus Christi and Aransas Bays, and to levy and collect reason- able tolls on Steam boats, sail vessels, and other water crafts using said Channel until a sufficient amount was raised, and no longer, to reimburse with 12½ per cent interest on the amount expended in constructing said channel, and Whereas, By an Ordinance of said City Council passed on the 15th day of May 1858, D. S. Howard & Co. were recognized as the agents of said City and authorized to construct said Channel and to receive tolls on vessels passing through the same when the said channel should be of a sufficient depth and width to entitle said Company to collect tolls under the Charter and Ordinance of said City; and by the 4th section of said ordinance, said D. S. Howard & Co. were required to keep a suitable set of Correction books and [every] among other thing, to exhibit to the Mayor and Board of Aldermen an account of all the receipts and expenditures of said Company, so far as the same refers to the removal of obstructions out of said Channel and tolls collected on same, and report the same quarterly under oath, and which provis- sions and requirements are obligitory on the assignees of said Company. and Whereas, demand has been heretofore made on D. S. Howard and their assignees for certain void and defunct Bonds supposed to have been issued by authority of said City Council, dated on the 21st day of May 1858, to the amount of $500.000, payable to the 344 order of D. S. Howard & Co bearing eight per cent interest per annum and made payable on or before the 11th day of February 1904. And also for a full statement of the costs of construction of said Channel and the credits due the City for tolls and other- wise that an adjustment of accounts between said City and said Company and their assignees may be had, and the liabilities of said City and amount of said Ship channel ascertained, if any there are, with which said demand said company and their assignees have failed and refused to comply; Therefore, be it Resolved, By the City Council of the City of Corpus Christi, that in view of the facts and premises, the collection of all tolls, and channel dues, by said company and their successors and assignees on said Channel shall cease from and after the 8th day of July, 1877, until said demands are complied with. Resolved, that the Secretary be instructed to furnish a copy of these resolutions to the assignees of said Company, at his earliest convenience. H. W. Berry On motion the preamble and resolutions were unanimously adopted, and the blank date ordered filled with the 8th day of July 1877. which was accordingly done in open Council. It was then moved seconded and carried that the Secretary be and is hereby authorized with discretionary powers to procure a record and Docket Book for the use of the City Court, Blank assessment Rolls, a seal for the Assessor and Collector, and other Stationary for the use of the City It was also moved and seconded that the Secretary procure one dozen chairs for the use of the City Council. the yeas and noes were called on the question, and it was declared carried by the following vote; Yeas, Benson, Hall, Gussett, McLaughlin, and Mussett. Noes – Cody, Young, Henry and Berry. It was then moved and seconded that an election be ordered to fill the vacancies caused by the resignation of the Marshal and Alderman Downing. An amendment was offered by a motion to defer action until the next regular meeting. The ayes and noes were again called for and the amendment was lost by the following vote: Aldermen – Cody, Benson, Henry, McLaughlin and Mussett voting no, and Aldermen Young, Berry, Hall & Gussett voting aye. The original motion was then taken up and carried, and an election was ordered, and the Mayor authorized to make publication thereof and fix the date for said election. It was then moved seconded and carried, that P. Lawler be placed in charge of the City Police until a Marshal is elected. The City Treasurer was on motion authorized to credit Mrs Conklins note with the sum of Seventy five dollars 345 that being the amount due her for services as teacher in the public free school for the month of April 1877. Revd Dr Turner was granted permission to address the Council on the propriety of selling him the school lot on which he resides, and after having heard the Dr’s remarks the subject was on motion, referred to a special committee of three, to be appointed by the Mayor, to report at the next regular meeting. Whereupon the Mayor appointed Aldermen Benson, McLaughlin and Gussett. Mr R. B. Hart was then on motion placed on the police force of the City to serve until a Marshal is elected. The Council then on motion adjourned. Attest J. C. Russell R. J. Denny City Secretary Mayor Called Meeting of the City Council May 19th 1877 Present: J. C. Russell, Mayor; Aldermen Hall, Benson, Young, Berry, Henry, Gussett, McLaughlin and Mussett. Absent: Alderman Cody The Mayor stated the object of the Call to be the repeal of an Ordi- nance relating to City Elections, the purchase of the Market Hall, and proof of the correctness of two bills, referred to the Finance Committee at the last regular meeting. The following Ordinance was then presented An Ordinance relating to pay Be it Ordained by the City Council of the City of Corpus Christi for holding City That all Ordinances heretofore passed allowing compensation for Elections holding elections for City Affiars, or for any other election under and by authority, of said City, be and the same is hereby repealed; and that this Ordinance take effect and be in force from and after its passage. The Ordinance was unanimously adopted. Approved J. C. Russell Mayor A motion was then made seconded and carried, that a committee of Three be appointed by the Mayor to ascertain from the owner of the Market Hall the price for which said proper- ty can be purchased: Whereupon the Mayor appointed Aldermen Berry, Gussett, and Mussett. The bill of T. Beynon Sheriff for $3515/100 and that 346 of Mrs Ann Allen for $1900 were on motion referred back to the parties for proof of correctness. The Council then on Motion adjourned. Attest R. J. Denny Mayor Regular Meeting of the City Council May 22d 1877 Present: J. C. Russell, Mayor; Aldermen Cody, Benson, Young, Henry, Berry, Hall, McLaugh- lin and Mussett. Absent: Alderman Gussett The minutes of the last regular meeting were read one cor- rection was made, and the minutes adopted as corrected. No 18 The following Ordinance was then adopted An Ordinance in relation to the Be it ordained by the City Council of the City of Corpus Christi; licensing of Drays That it shall be the duty of the owner or proprietor of each dray, Wagons Vehicles &c cart, carriage, buggy, wagon, or any other vehicle subject to Above repealed.page 387. a license tax by the City of Corpus Christi, to procure from the City Secretary, a number for the same, which number shall be placed and fastened on the right side of each vehicle so licensed. Be it further Ordained, that it shall be the duty of said owner or proprietor, on or before the day of the expiration of his or her license, to return to the City Secretary said number or numbers and procure from him a number or numbers of a different cut and color in their stead, that it shall be unlawful for such owner or proprietor to retain in use such number or numbers after expiration of the time for which they were procured. Be it further Ordained, That any person violating any of the provisions of this ordinance shall, on conviction thereof before the Mayor, be fined in a sum of not less than five dollars. That this ordinance take effect from and after the first day of July 1877. It was the Resolved by the City Council of the City of Corpus Christi, That the City Secretary be author- ized and required to procure one hundred tin Cards for the use of such vehicles as may be licensed to run in the City. Fifty of said cards shall be painted black over a white ground, and fifty painted green over a yellow ground. This resolution was adopted. An ordinance relating to the bond to be required of Draymen 347 was then presented, read, and on motion was referred back to the Ordinance Committee for amendment. The report of the committee on the application for the purchase of the school lot, was presented, and on motion referred back for further investigation. The committee to whom was referred the matter of procuring a scavenger Cart, reported in favor of engaging Jos McKew, at Forty five dollars monthly, he to devote all his time upon the streets, under the supervision of the Street Committee. Which report was on motion received and adopted. The following report of the Sanitary committee was also received and adopted recommending that a board of health be adopted to consist of the present Sanitary Committee the resident Physicians and the Mayor as ex Officio chairman. That they proceed to consider the question and recommend such measures as they may think best for the prevention of disease and epidemics during the hot weather. A petition from P. Smythe asking pay for himself and associates for holding the city election in Ward No 2, was read and on motion received, by the following vote the ayes and notes being called Aldermen Cody Young Henry & McLaughlin voting aye, and Benson, Berry, Hall and Mussett voting nay, there being a tie the Mayor gave the casting vote for it. The petition was then on motion laid on the table. The Street committee through C. W. Young, reported that a bridge could be built across Leopard street for $18500; that Ninety Dolls had been subscribed by citizens and more would be; that said bridge was badly needed, and therefore the Street Committee recommended its construction. Which report was received and adopted. A petition from Jas Fields for a position on the Police force was received and on motion placed on file with the Secretary. The bill of P. Whelan, for services as City Marshal for the first 8 days in May of $1600 which had been referred to the Finance Committee, was returned by said Committee disapproved for the reason that Mr Whelan had received pay for the same time from the County as County jailor. The report was on motion received and payment of the bill was refused. The bill of E. Butler for drayage amounting to $100 was on motion allowed and a warrant ordered to issue for its pay- ment. The bill of the times for City printing, of $9425/100 was on motion received and referred to the Finance Committee. The bill of Mrs Ann Allen for $19.00 having been approved as correct was allowed and a warrant ordered to issue for its payment. The reports of the Ship Channel Company which had been returned to the agents for corrections, were presented endorsed 348 corrected, and with said reports a communication from Messers Doddridge & Davis, stating that all the requirements of the City had been completed with by them in keeping books account of tolls collected etc, and that in referance to the City Bonds, that Messers Morris and Cummings had been written to, and the action of the Council in relation thereto had been sent them, and that an answer might be looked for from them touching the same. On motion the reports and communication were laid on the table until Morris & Cummings are heard from. It was moved seconded and carried that the Mayor appoint a supervising committee of three to take charge of the Schools and School property, whereupon the Mayor appointed Messers Benson, Henry and Young. John S. Givens Esqr. then addressed the Council upon the delinquent tax matter, and offered to surrender his contract from this time forth, as he had understood some dissatisfaction existed in the Council about the percentage that he was to receive for his services. On motion the Mayor was requested to appoint a committee of Three to confer with Mr Givens, and report at the next regular meeting, Whereupon Aldermen Benson, Henry, and Cody were appointed. A Short recess was then called. The Council was again called to order The Assessor and Collector reported a total of Six hundred and forty five dollars and thirty one cents delinquent tax collected up to date, and was required to turn the same over to the Trea- surer in compliance with the provisions of the charter, and on motion the Treasurer was instructed to retain twenty five per cent of said delinquent taxes to pay the fee of collection due to Messers McCampbell Givens & Atlee. The Election returns were then opened in open Council Ward by Ward beginning with Ward No (1) One Aldermen Benson, Young and Mussett having been appoin- ted tellers. For City Marshal. Ward 1 Ward 2 Ward 3 Ward 4 Ward 5 Total P. Lawler Recd 22 17 43 6 8 96 W. Ohler “ 15 22 17 6 3 63 A. Allen “ 4 27 12 28 8 79 For Alderman in the Third Ward 3.Ward A. Montgomery Recd 22 J R Spann “ 16 P Paldeschwiler “ 9 C Ley “ 7 [Scattering] “ 1 Pat Lawler was accordingly declared elected City Marshal by 349 Seventeen majority to fill the unexpired term of P. Whelan resigned And A. Montgomery was declared elected Alderman in the 3d Ward by six majority to fill the unexpired term of Jas Downing resigned; And on motion certificates of election were ordered to be issued to each of them. The following resolution was then offered: Resolved, That all ordinances heretofore passed granting to A. H. Edey, H. F. Kirsten or others to cross water street by a rail Road track be, and is hereby revoked. On motion the resolution was received and unanimously adopted. The Council then on motion adjourned Attest R. J. Denny J. C. Russell Secretary Mayor Called Meeting of the City Council May 30th 1877 Present: J. C. Russell, Mayor; Aldermen – Benson, Cody, Young, Henry, Berry, Hall, Gussett, McLaughlin & Mussett. City Marshall P. Lawler The Mayor stated that the meeting had been called to consider the situation of delinquent taxes. The deficiency on the Police force of the City. And the necessity for the immediate care of the public School property. A motion was made seconded and carried that the applications for positions on the police force of the City be referred to a committee of five, consisting of one from each Ward to be appointed by the Mayor and the committee to report at the next regular meeting, whereupon the Mayor appointed Aldermen Gussett, Benson, Young Berry and Mussett. An ordinance was then offered by Alderman Berry proposing that the City relinquish all taxes due her prior to the first day of January 1876, provided the relinquish- ment should only apply to bona fide residents of the City. A motion was made and seconded to lay the Ordinance on the table, which led to considerable dis- Stricken out by order cussion, the Mayor expressing as his opinion that as a correction no member of the Board had a right to vote on the Question in case he was pecuniarily interested. As the 350 motion to table had not been put, the ordinance was by consent withdrawn. An application from Dr Turner for the appointment of custodian for the school property was then presented, it being stipulated that locks and fastnings should be provided to the houses and enclosures, and then in that case the Dr would care for the property and ask no other remuneration than the privilege of using the Cistern Water. A motion was made to refer to the School committee and authorize them to appoint a person with police authority to make arrests, etc., in case of any one committing depreda- tions on the premises. D. McNeal Turner Jr offered to accept the proposi position. The motion was withdrawn and the following No 19. ordinance was presented, read, and on motion adopted. An Ordinance for the protection of Be it ordained by the City Council of the City of Corpus the Public School Christi, that it shall be unlawful for any person to enter Property &c. upon the public school grounds in said city without the consent of the School Committee, or the person appointed by them to take charge of the same. Be it further ordained, That any person violating the provisions of this ordinance shall be fined not less than five nor more than one hundred Dollars, and that this Ordi- nance take effect in ten days from its first publication. Approved May 30th 1877 J. C. Russell Mayor The following resolution was then presented, read, and on motion adopted. Resolved: That D. McNeal Turner Jr, be appointed to take charge of the Public School grounds and houses in the City of Corpus Christi, and that he be and hereby is given the powers now conferred on a policeman in said City to make arrests of any person or persons offending against the foregoing ordinance and entitled to same fees and per- quisites for making arrests thereunder. Approved May 30th 1877 J. C. Russell Mayor D. McNeal Turner Jr, presented in writing his relin- quishment to all fees or claims for said service, excepting the use of the Cistern water. R. Holbein, Esqr., presented a petition to the Council praying that his taxes for the years 1873, 1874, 1875, and 1876 be remitted, in consideration of improvements to the amount of $15000. having been put upon the 351 City at his own private expense during the aforesaid period. The petition was on motion laid on the table by a unani- mous vote. The Council then on motion adjourned. Attest R. J. Denny J. C. Russell Secretary Mayor State of Texas } County of Nueces } This agreement made and entered into this nineth day of January A. D. 1877 by and between The City of Corpus Christi a Municipal Body corporate acting by and through the Mayor and Secretary thereof and in accordance with the proceedings of the City Council thereof of the date of October 10th A. D. 1876 of the first part And the Corpus Christi San Diego and Rio Grande narrow gauge Rail Road Company a body Corporate under Charter from the State of Texas the said Company acting by and through the President and Secretary thereof of the second part Witnesseth: That the party of the first part for and in con- sideration of the covenants on the part of the part of the party of the second part hereinafter mentioned does hereby give grant and convey unto the party of the second part the authority power and privilege to extend the Rail Road and track of said Company from the terminus as heretofore established west of the Ravine near the South East Corner of the premises of Major F. A. Blucher to the west side of Broadway near and South of the Ravine on the South Bluff of Corpus Christi on the prem- ises heretofore known as the property of the Central Wharf and Ware House Company with the Right of Way over and across all streets commons avenues alleys and highways from the said former terminus west of the Ravine to the terminus of said Road as now established on Broadway on the line as now laid and being used by said Company and to operate the same by Steam and the permission of the City is hereby given to the said company to erect at the said terminus on Broadway such buildings and improvements as may be necessary for freight and passenger Depots, And the right of way herein granted is intended to extend over along and across all streets avenues and alleys from the said former terminus on the West side of the Ravine to Broadway where the terminus of the said road is not established to include all streets avenues and Alleys between said points as well as those which may be 352 hereafter dedicated to, or established by the said City. The said party of the Second part in consideration of the rights and privileges above granted does hereby covenant and agree that the Depot and terminus of the said Rail Road shall not be moved or established any nearer the Bay than the said point on Broadway which is at the junction of Kennedy Street and Broadway as defined on the Map or plan of the property of the Central Wharf and Ware house Company now on file in the office of the Clerk of the County. And the said party of the second part further agrees and covenants that the said Company shall not construct or operate on any Rail Road on across or along Broadway and the said company shall not construct any track so as to connect said terminus with the Bay or any wharf on the Bay for the use of Steam Horse or any other power. And the said party of the second part further agrees to obtain from the County Clerks office aforesaid a certified copy of the plan or map of the property of the Central Wharf and Ware House Company which was deposited in the office of the County Clerk aforesaid which said map shews the streets and alleys dedicated to the use of the public, and the said certified copy thereof shall be filed in the office of the Secretary of the City Council The party of the second part further covenants and agrees that the penalty for the breach of any of the covenants on the part of the party of the second part shall be the forfeiture of the right of Way and all the privileges by the party of the first part granted, and that the buildings that there may be erected on the Block at the Road terminus on Broadway by the Road Company shall be forfeited to the said City And further in case there shall be any such forfeiture by the party of the second part the said City by her Officers may remove any of the said buildings and may take up and remove any Rail Road that is now or may be construc- ted by said Company from the said former terminus to the present terminus on Broadway. In testimony whereof the parties hereto by their respective officers above mentioned sign this Agreement and attach hereto their respective Corporate Seals this the day and year first above written {seal} Attest William Headen R. J. Denny Mayor City Secretary For the City of Corpus Christi party of the first part {seal} U. Lott President attest Corpus Christi San Diego & Rio Grande R Co for J. B. Mitchell Party of the Second Part Secy of C. C. S. D. R. G. R. R Co 353 The State of Texas } County of Nueces } Before me Reuben Holbein Clerk of the County Court within and for the County and State Aforesaid, duly Commissioned and qualified, personally came and appeared William Headen, Mayor of the City of Corpus Christi, and R. J. Denny Secretary of said City both to me well known, parties of the first part for and in behalf of said City, of Corpus Christi, also at the same time Came U Lott President of the Corpus Christi San Diego and Rio Grande N. G. R R Company and J. B. Mitchell Secretary of said R. R. Co well known to me to be the officers thereof, parties of the second part, who severally acknowledged that they had signed sealed executed and delivered in their respective official capacities, the foregoing agreement dated January 9th 1877 for the uses purposes and considerations therein set forth and expressed. In testimony wherefore I hereunto sign my name and affix the impress of my official Seal, at office in Corpus Christi this the 1st day of March A. D. 1877 {seal} Reuben Holbein Clk C. C. N. Co By Patrick McDonough Depy County Clerks office } Nueces County Texas } Filed for Record March 1st A. d. 1877 At 8 O clock A. M. and duly recorded on same day in Book C record of Bonds Agreements &c. of said Nueces County on pages 217 & 218. To Certify all of which witness my hand and the impress of my official seal at office in Corpus Christi the day and year above written Reuben Holbein C. C. C. N. C. {seal} By Patrick McDonough Depty 354 Regular Meeting of the City Council June 12th 1877 Present: J. C. Russell, Mayor; Aldermen. Benson, Cody, Young, Henry, Berry, Montgomery, Gussett, Hall, McLaughlin, & Mussett. The minutes of the last stated and subsequent called meetings were read corrected and adopted after the corrections were made The Mayor presented his report of fines collected in the City Court for the Months of April and May, amounting to $109.50/100 , which report was on motion received and referred to the Finance Committee. Two Reports of the Assessor and Collector, One of Poll, Ad Valorem, City Debt bond and Fire Engine Tax, amounting in the aggregate to $645.31/100 , and the other of Occupation Tax collected during the Month of May, were presented, and on motion received and referred to the Finance Committee. A report of the Street Committee, relating to the construction of the Bridge on Leopard Street, recommending that the City pay the balance $12250/100 due on said work, was received and on motion the report was received and adopted. The Special Committee on the delinquent tax matter having considered the expense incurred in collecting the back Taxes, reported that an agreement had been concluded with the Attorney, he accepting a warrant for $75.00 for his services. On motion the report was received and adopted. The Sanitary committee reported in favor of Dr Ansell as Health Officer at Aransas Pass, and recommen- ding the enforcement of Quarantine at as early a day as prac- ticable; also requiring citizens to keep their premises clean, and free from accumulations of filth. After amendment the report was adopted. The Committee on applications for positions on the Police force, presented a majority report in favor of Mr Larkin, and a minority report in favor of Mr Fields. The adoption of the former was moved; the ayes and noes being called, it was lost, viz; Ayes Aldermen Benson, Cody, McLaughlin, and Mussett; Noes Aldermen Young, Henry, Berry, Montgomery, Gussett and Hall. It was moved that the Marshal suggest a suitable person, for which a substitute was accepted that the Council choose by ballot; Ayes and noes called, viz; ayes – Aldermen Benson, Cody, Montgomery, McLaughlin and Mussett. 5. Noes Aldermen Young, Henry, Berry, Gussett & Hall. 5; Mayor Russell voting aye, the substitute was then adopted; whereupon the ballot resulted in P. Larkin receiving (4) four votes, and James fields (6) Six votes. Mr Fields was declared elected. The finance Committee reported upon the bill of the Times as having been found correct, and recommended 355 its payment; the report was received and adopted. The school committee reported, showing that rent for the school property leased to Mr Lacy had been paid for 1874 and 1875, and recommending that the committee take charge of and collect the rents hereafter; the report was received and adopted. The Committee on the purchase of the Market Hall property, reported verbally stating progress and asked further time; which was on motion granted. A communication from the Secretary of State, enclosing the Quarantine regulation proclamation of the Governor, was received, read and filed with the Secretary. Dr A. Ansell was nominated for Health officer at Aransas Pass and unanimously elected. A communication from Morris & Cummings, relating to the Ship Channel and Ship Channel Bonds, was read and on motion received and on motion referred to a committee of three; whereupon the Mayor appointed Alderman Benson, Berry and Young; on motion the Mayor was added to said committee as Ex Officio Chairman. Three petitions for the remission of City Taxes were presented, one from Mrs McCabe, one from Mrs Gallahan and one from Mrs Shaw, which were on motion severally received and the requests not granted. A petition from Mrs H. M. Conklin, asking the use of one of the rooms in the public School House for private school purposes, was received, and on motion her request was granted; and Mr Turner, the custodian of the School pro- perty, was, on motion to be notified by the School Committee of this action of the Council. A letter from the Silsby Manufacturing Company, asking payment of the balance due on Fire Engine Bond No (3) Three, with interest, was then read, and on motion referred to the Finance Committee. A short recess was then declared. The Council, on being called to order, received the report of the Finance Committee recommending that the balance on Fire Engine Bond No (3) Three, with interest amounting to $33280/100 be paid; the report was on motion adopted. A petition was read from R. H. Dickson and others, asking that a nuisance in their vicinity be abated; on motion the petition was referred to the Chief of Police for his immediate attention. The following bills were then presented and warrants ordered to issue for their payment. Thomas Beynon $3840/100 for board of City Prisoners. Albert Allen $225/100 work on School property J. B. Mitchell $635/100 Locks screws &c for School house 356 J. B. Mitchell $20.00 for Chairs for the use of the City Council C. F. Vandervoort $3333/100 for Police duty. G. B. Williams $12250/100 for construction of Leopard Street Bridge. S. W. Rankin $1775/100 for Stationary Seal &c. R. J. Denny $275/100 for Lock and repairs on Secretarys desk and fitting a lock on the Council room door. Paedro Flores $200. Dan Lucas .50 cts and Thos. Fields $1.00 all for hauling off dead animals. Mrs Ann Allen $10.50/100 for board of City Prisoners. P. Lawler $8.72/100 for extra duty in charge of Police force. The bill of R. B. Hart, for services as policeman for 16 days amounting to $2656/100 was referred to the Finance Committee. The bill of Jos. McKew for Services as scavenger amounting to $2250/100 was referred to the Finance Committee. The bill of Mrs H. M. Conklin, of $75.00 for services as teacher in public school for the month of May, was on motion ordered to be placed to her credit on the note held by the City for the purchase of one of the School lots. No 20. The following Ordinances were then adopted Ordinance regula- ting and relating to Quarantine Be it ordained by the City Council of the City of Corpus Christi That in conformity with the proclamation of His Excellency, the Governor of the State of Texas, and by the power therein delegated we have, this day declared as the Medical Officer to serve in the Capacity of Quarantine Surgeon at Aransas Pass, Dr A. Ansell, and command that he be respected and obeyed as such. That the place for boarding and visiting all vessels, entering at Aransas Pass, Shall be at a point between the Light House and Aransas Wharf, to be designated by the Quarantine Surgeon, at which point there shall be hoisted the usual Quarantine signal. That the Quarantine ground shall be at or near the entrance of Lydia Ann Channel. That no vessel entering at Aransas Pass, shall proceed up to a landing at either of the Ports of St Marys, Fulton, Rockport, or Corpus Christi, until they shall have the written permit of the aforesaid Quarantine surgeon, in his own handwriting. That the hours for boarding or visiting vessels by the Quarantine Surgeon shall be from 7 O’clock, A. M., until 6 O’clock., P. M. That no pilot or other person shall leave any vessel entering the Pass, until permitted so to do by the Quarantine Surgeon; nor shall any person save the Pilot or Quarantine Surgeon be permitted to board any vessel until the medical officer shall give his permission; nor shall any part or parcel of the vessel’s cargo, tackle, or other furniture, be permitted to be landed, except by permission of the Medical officer That all Pilots and Commanders of vessels, are charged 357 with a strict compliance of this ordinance. Any infringement of any part thereof by them, or any other person, shall subject him, or them, convicted of such infringement before the Mayor of this City, to a fine of not less than fifty Dollars for each and every occasion so convicted. That when any vessel shall arrive from any Port, or district deemed infected, and so declared by his Excellency, the Governor, it shall be the duty of the Quarantine Surgeon to detain such vessel and disinfect her if he shall deem it necessary and all vessels so disinfected by the Quarantine Surgeon, shall pay a fee of Five Dollars $5.00 for each and every time so disinfected. Any commander, or owner of any vessel, refusing to comply with this section, shall on conviction thereof, before the Mayor of this City, be subjected to a fine of not less than Fifty Dollars for each and every time he, or they, shall so disobey. That it shall be the duty of every Pilot, who may conduct any vessel within the Pass at Aransas, bound for either of the ports of St Marys, Fulton, Rockport or Corpus Christi, to apprise the Commander of such vessel of this Quarantine regulation, and for failure so to do, shall on conviction, be subject to a fine of Fifty Dollars. Approved J. C. Russell, Mayor; No 21. Health Ordinance Be it Ordained by the City Council of the City of Corpus Christi Requiring owners and That all owners or occupants of any lot or lots of ground or yard, Occupants to keep all or any other place in the City, which shall be unwholesome from premises cleaned up &c stagnant water, filth, Carrion, impure or unwholesome matter thereon, or from any other cause liable to produce disease, shall cause such lot, ground, yard or place to be drained and cleansed, and remove such noxious matter therefrom. Be it further ordained, That the owners or occupants of all houses, buildings or establishments in said city having sinks or privies, shall constantly keep them clean, pure, and disin- fected, so that the same shall not be annoying to anyone, or engender disease in the neighborhood. Be it further Ordained. That when any owner or occupant of such property, shall fail or refuse to comply with the foregoing provisions of this ordinance, it shall be the duty of the City Mar- shal to cause the same to be done at the expense of the City, and the cost and expense of the same shall be a lien upon the lot, ground or premises so cleansed, and shall be enforced against the owner thereof as provided by Section 124 of the City Charter. Be it further ordained, That it shall be the duty of the City Marshal to make weekly inspection of the aforesaid premises, and report to the City Recorder any violations of the provisions of this Ordinance Be it ordained further, That any violations of the first and second sections of this ordinance, the offender on conviction 358 thereof, shall be fined in any sum not less than five, nor more than twenty five Dollars. Be it further ordained, that any ordinance or parts of ordinance, in conflict with the provisions of this ordinance, is hereby repealed. And that this ordinance take effect, and be in force in ten days after its publication. Approved J. C. Russell, Mayor No 22 An Ordinance relating to the Be it ordained by the City Council of the City of Corpus licensed Draymen Christi; giving Bond That each and every licensed drayman in said City before engaging in hauling any goods, ware or merchandise in said City, shall enter into a Bond in the sum of Three hundred Dollars, with one or more good and sufficient sureties, made payable to said city and approved by the Mayor, condi- tioned for the faithful delivery of any goods, wares or merchan- dise committed to his care and charge, in as good condition as when committed to him for delivery to any person, or firm in said City. Said Bond shall be filed with the City Secretary. Be it further Ordained, that any person injured or damaged by reason of carelessness or negligence of such draymen may being suit in the name of the City, on said Bond, for the use and benefit of such person, or persons, who may have sustained loss or damage by said drayman. And said Bond shall not be void upon the first recovery, but suc- cessive suits may be prosecuted on said bond, until the full amount be recovered. Be it further ordained that for any violation of the pro- visions of the first section of this Ordinance, the offender, on conviction thereof, shall be fined in a sum of not less than Five nor more than One Hundred Dollars. This Ordinance shall take effect, and be in force from and after the 1st day of July 1877. No 23 Approved J. C. Russell, Mayor; An Ordinance requiring all Policemen to Sub- Be it Ordained by the City Council of the City of Corpus scribe and take Christi. an Oath That any person appointed by the City Council as a policeman, shall, before entering upon his duty, take an Oath faithfully, honestly and impartially, to discharge the duties incumbent on him, to the best of his skill and ability. That this Ordinance take effect from and after its passage. Approved J. C. Russell, Mayor; A Warrant was then ordered to issue to P. Hoffman for the rent of the City Prison from the date of its being 359 rented until the first of June 1877. It was then moved and carried that the City printer be included in the list of City Officers, and paid for his services out of the special fund created to pay said officers. The salary of the Quarantine officer was then fixed at the same figures as that of last year, viz; $20000 per month, and an additional sum of $5000 for boat hire and other incidental expenses. Mr D Hirsch on the part of the Hook & Ladder Company asked that the ordinance passed by the former Board of Aldermen, requiring the City Engineer and Assistant to be owners of real estate, be amended by having said requirement stricken out. On motion the Ordinance was amended and that clause ordered expunged. The election of P. Southard. Chief Engineer of the Fire Department, was then on motion confirmed. It was then moved seconded and carried that ten days notice be given, after which time the ordinance relating to the licensing of dogs shall be put rigidly in force, and that a dog pound be established, and all dogs found running at large without license shall be taken up and put in said pound for twenty four hours, and if not claimed in that time, to be disposed of as the ordinance directs. It was moved seconded and carried that the Street Com- mittee be, and is hereby empowered to employ as many drays as they may deem necessary, to make improvements on the Streets, absolutely required; they being guarded as to the expense incurred. An informal Warrant issued to W. B. Wrather in 1874 for Five Dollars, was presented, and on motion, the Mayor was authorized to sign the same. The Council then on motion adjourned to Wednesday evening next 13th Inst. at 8 O’clock. J. C. Russell Attest Mayor R. J. Denny Secretary Adjourned Regular Meeting of the City Council June 13th 1877 Present: J. C. Russell, Mayor Aldermen: Henry, Berry, Montgomery, Hall & Brown. Absent: Cody, Gussett, Young, McLaughlin & Mussett. 360 The bill of J. Henry amounting to $3.40/100 for Can of oil and other articles purchased for the City was on motion allowed and a warrant ordered to issue for its payment. A motion was made, seconded and carried that a board of equalization, to consist of three, be appointed by the Mayor, whose duty it shall be to hear appeals, and equalize the assessment of Taxes; Whereupon the Mayor appointed Aldermen Benson, Hall and Berry. Com to Measure It was moved seconded and carried that the Mayor Ship Channel appoint a committee of three whose duty it shall be to go down and examine the Ship Channel, and to ascertain if said Channel is of the required width and depth, and report at the next regular meeting; whereupon the Mayor appointed Aldermen Benson, Young & Berry. A Duplicate warrant was ordered to issue to Col. John M. Moore in lieu of warrant No 144 issued to him on the 7th day of April, 1877 and by him lost, and the Treasurer notified not to pay the original Warrant. It was then ordered that bids be solicited to do the City printing from June 30th 1877 to June 30th 1878 and that said bids be handed in, sealed and directed to the Mayor, on or before the 26th Inst marked “Printing Bid”. An application from T. S. Parker for the position of Wharf Policeman, was presented, and on motion laid over to the next meeting. The Council then adjourned to Friday evening next at 8-O’clock. Friday Evening June 15th 1877 Council met pursuant to adjournment Present: J. C. Russell, Mayor; Aldermen – Benson, Cody, Young, Berry, Montgomery, Gussett, Hall, McLaughlin and Mussett. Absent: Alderman Henry. The Assessment of Taxes was, on motion deferred to the next regular meeting. The Finance Committee reported back approved the following bills and recommended that the Warrants issue for their payment R. B. Hart’s for Police duty $2656/100 Jos. McKew $22.50/100 approved for $15.00 On motion the report was received and adopted and the Secretary ordered to issue the warrants The Finance Committee reported back, approved, the Mayors report of fines Collected in the City Court for the months of April and May. On motion the report was 361 received and adopted. The Council then on motion adjourned Attest J. C. Russell R. J. Denny Mayor Secretary Regular Meeting of the City Council June 26th 1877 Present: J. C. Russell, Mayor; Aldermen – Benson, Cody, Young, Berry, Henry, Gussett McLaughlin and Mussett. City Marshal P. Lawler Absent: Montgomery & Hall. The minutes of the last and adjourned regular meetings were read and adopted A letter from N. G. Collins, relating to the sale of the Market House property to the City, was presented by the special committee appointed to look after the purchase of the same, read, and on motion the committee was granted further time to consummate the purchase. The special committee appointed to go down and measure the width and depth of the Ship Channel presented their report to the effect that the channel did not come up to the requirements of the contracts. On motion the report was received and adopted. The following preamble and resolution was then offered, read, and on motion adopted “to wit” Whereas, It is shown from the report of your committee appointed by your body to take the soundings and measurement of the Ship Channel connecting the Aransas and Corpus Christi Bays, that there is a deficiency both in width and depth of said channel, and not in accordance with the contract made with D. S. Howard & Co. by the City of Corpus Christi for the opening and keeping open of said channel. Resolved, Therefore, that the collection of Tolls from any Captain, Master, owner, person or persons, controlling any water craft, Steam Ship, Steam Boat, or Sail Vessel, upon any goods, wares, or merchandise passing through said channel, be suspended until it be made to conform to, and in accor- dance with said contract; authorizing said D. S. Howard & Co. to open said Channel. (See Sec. 3 of the contracting parties) and that the said D. S. Howard & Co their successors or agents 362 be notified to cease the collection of tolls, dues and claims from and after said notice. A communication from J. D. Merideth, applying for the use of a portion of the public School house was received, read, and a motion made to grant the request, which was amended by a motion to refer the matter to the School committee. The amendment was seconded and carried. A communication from P. Southard Chief Engineer of the fire Department stating the urgent wants of said Department was read, and on motion, the matter was referred to a special committee of Three, consisting of Aldermen Gussett, Berry and Henry, to take such action with the Department as deemed best to carry out the desired objects. No 24 The following Ordinance was then read and on motion adopted. An Ordinance Be it ordained by the City Council of the City of Corpus levying Tax on Christi: liquor dealers Ordinance Repealed July 2d Sec 1. That for the year 1877 a direct ad Valorem tax of one fourth Page 367 on one per cent is hereby levied and shall be collected, for the use of said City for general revenue purposes, on all taxable property in said City. Sec 2. That there is hereby levied on, and shall be collected from every person, firm, company or association of persons, pursueing any of the following occupations, an annual direct tax on every such occupation or seperate establishment as follows; For spirituous, vinous or other intoxicating liquors in quantities less than one quart One hundred and twenty five Dollars; in quantities of a quart and less than five gallons, seventy five Dollars; provided this section shall not be so construed as to include any wines, liquors or alcohol, sold by druggists exclusively for medical purposes; for selling in quantities of five gallons and over, one hundred Dollars; for selling beer exclusively, twenty five Dollars. Sec. 3. That all ordinances or parts of ordinances contravening the provi- sions of this ordinance are hereby repealed, and that this ordinance take effect and be in force from its passage. Approved J. C. Russell Mayor The Finance Committee reported back approved, the two reports of the Assessor and Collector, submitted to them at the former meeting. On motion the report was adopted and ordered filed with the Secretary. The bill for costs of Court in a suit of P. Whelan against the City, amounting to $25.50/100 , was, on motion laid on the table. The following bills were presented, allowed, and warrants ordered to issue for their payment: Captain Chas Benson $3000 for hire of boat Caroline. L. Webber $1500 for haulin shell on the Streets. John Hall $375/100 for zinc buckets for City Prison. 363 The Mayor then made known to the Council that he had liberated a prisoner from close confinement in the Jail on account of sickness, and had also instructed the Marshal to attend to and have a wounded Mexican cared for that was without means and friends. On motion the action of the Mayor was approved. The bond of P. Lawler Marshal, was presented to the Council and returned to him to have the following correction made “to wit” the word “Marshal” to be inserted instead of Chief of Police as it now reads. The petition of Thos. Parker, laid over from the previous meeting was brought up but no action was taken thereon. Three bids to do the City Printing for the ensuring year, from June 30th 1877 to June 30th 1878, were then presented and on motion referred to the Finance Committee. The Street committee on the application of Alderman Berry was then on motion authorized to buy the necessary tools for street work, said tools to be placed in charge of the Marshal, and he to give them out as required, taking receipt for them when so let out, and an inventory of the tools bought to be filed with the Secretary. M. Lichtenstein then made known to the Council that a Lot of his had been sold for taxes through a misunderstanding between himself and the Assessor and /Collector. It was moved and carried that said Lot be reconveyed to Mr Lichtenstein by the City, upon his paying the taxes and costs of sale of said property. The Council then on motion adjourned Attest R. J. Denny J. C. Russell Secretary Mayor Regular Meeting of the City Council July 10th 1877 Present: J. C. Russell, Mayor Aldermen: Benson, Young, Henry, Berry, Montgomery McLaughlin, Mussett. City Marshal P. Lawler. Absent: Aldermen – Cody, Gussett & Hall The Minutes of the last regular meeting were read and adopted. The Mayors report of fines assessed in the City Court for the month of June amounting to ($11200) One Hundred and twelve Dollars, was, on motion received and ordered filed with the Secretary. 364 The Report of the Assessor and Collector of moneys collected during the month of June, amounting to $1697.73; also of Occupation tax for Quarter ending June 30th amounting to $493.16/100 was presented and on motion received and referred to the Finance Committee. The reports of the Treasurer from May 5th to July 4th 1877, showing the following amounts received and disbursed from the various funds, were received and on motion referred to the Finance Committee. Receipts Occupation Tax 429.94 Ad Valorem “ 641.99 Poll “ 74.02 Wharf Revenues 1087.34 Recorders Court 43.00 Debt Bond 657.61 Fire Engine 811.23 $ 3735.13 Disbursements General Fund Account 759.01 Occupation Tax 428.80 Wharf Company 1067.84 City Debt Bond 382.13 Fire Engine 741.97 Balance in hand 365.38 3735.13 The City Marshall presented his report on the general condition of the City, as being good excepting in two places. On motion the report was received and referred to the Street Committee. City Printers The report of the Finance Committee on the bids for the City printing, recommending that the contract be awarded to the Corpus Christi Free Press, a weekly news- paper, was presented and on motion received and adopted. The application of E. Ohler, for position as night Policeman on the City Wharf, was presented, and on motion laid on the table subject to call. Two applications one from J. Hanson and one from Chas. Wicks, for positions on the police force of the City, were presented, and on motion received and referred to a special committee of Three consisting of Aldermen Henry, Benson and Mussett. The Marshal reported that for good cause, he had suspended Jas Fields from the police force. A motion to suspend finally, was amended by a motion to approve the action of the Marshal, the amendment was seconded and carried. The following bills were presented and Warrants 365 ordered to issue for their payment, to wit: J. B. Mitchell $7.75/100 tools bought by Street Committee Ed Butler $0.50 hauling off a dead animal P. Hoffman 14.80 Groceries for order of Street Committee Mrs A. Allen 8 00 Board of City Prisoners P. Lawler 6.34/100 Extra duty in charge of Police force P. Lawler 1 00 Money expended in removing dead animals Thos Fields 1 00 Hauling off dead ox John Hall 22 00 Work on Carancahua Street McKenzie & Young 12 00 Painting 100 dray numbers The bill of the Valley Times for $1942/100 was presented and on motion received and referred to the Finance Committee. It was then moved and seconded that the action of the Council at its former meeting, in laying the bill on the table for costs of Justices court in the suit of P. Whelan against the City be reconsidered. Ayes – Aldermen Young, Henry & Montgomery Nay’s Aldermen Benson, Berry, McLaughlin & Mussett The motion was accordingly lost. The Ordinance passed at the last regular meeting, fixing the tax on the occupation of liquor sellers, was, on motion taken up and referred to the Ordinance Committee for a revision. The resignations of Alderman Hall and Cody were presented, and on motion laid over to the next regular meeting. Eight deeds from the Assessor and Collector for property bid in by the City for City Taxes, were presented, and the Secretary was authorized to have them placed upon the records of Nueces County. A motion was then made and seconded to reconsider the action taken at a previous meeting, giving notice to the agents of Morris & Cummings to stop the collection of Tolls until the Channel is made to comply with the terms of the contract, which was lost by the following vote Ayes, Aldermen Young & Henry Nays, Aldermen Benson, Berry, Montgomery, McLaughlin & Mussett The Mayor, by motion was authorized to turn over to the City Marshal $500 of the money in his hands for the purpose of purchasing lumber to build a dog pound. The following Resolution was then presented, read, and on motion adopted, to wit: Resolved, That the income to the City from carts, Drays, or any other vehicles licensed by the City, be and is hereby set aside and made a special fund for repairs on the streets. It was moved seconded and carried that a committee of Three be appointed whose duty it shall be to confer 366 with the County authorities and see if the old Jail can be obtained for the use of the City. Aldermen Young, Berry and Benson were appointed the committee to carry out this motion. The Council then on motion adjourned. Attest Peter Benson Mayor pro tem R. J. Denny Secretary Regular Meeting of the City Council July 24th 1877 Mayor Russell being indisposed the meeting was called to order by P. Benson, President Pro Tem Present: Aldermen – Young, Henry, Berry, Montgomery, Gussett McLaughlin and Mussett. City Marshal Pat Lawler Absent: Aldermen – Cody and Hall. The minutes of the last regular meeting were read and adopted. The Finance Committee reported back the bill of the Valley Times recommending its payment less a credit of $9.45/100 amount overpaid by error in the previous account; and asked further time on other matters submitted to them. The appointment of an Auditor for the Board, whose business it shall be it examine and report on all bills and accounts presented to the Council, was on motion, referred to the Ordinance Committee. The Special Committee on applications for positions on the police force recommended that the appointment be left entirely with the Council. On motion Mr Chas Wicks was nominated and unanimously elected. The following bills were presented and Warrants ordered issued for their Payment. To the County Clerk of Nueces County for recording deeds $1200; P. Lawler for services of Sundry Draymen $7.75/100 ; P. Whelan Jail fees $2.00; Jos. McKew for hauling sand on the streets $10.00; James Fields for Police duty $8.33/100 ; Simon Eppes $4.00; Dan Ohler $2.50/100 Sam Moore $12.00; Frank Hall $6.50/100 E. Willett $300 all for work on the streets, by direction of the Street Committee. The resignations of Aldermen Cody & Hall were taken up, and on motion laid on the table. 367 The Committee to whom the matter of trying to procure the old County Jail for the use of the city had been referred, asked for further time which was on motion granted. A motion was made and carried, empowering the same committee to try and effect the desired object with the County Judge, and if successful to surrender the Jail now occupied to Mr Hoffman. It was moved and carried that the board of all the City prisoners be paid hereafter out of the special fund set aside for the payment of current City expenses. A Resolution was offered recommending that the appoint- ment of Policemen be left exclusively under the management and control of the Mayor, with an increase of two on the present Police force of the City. On motion the resolution was laid on the table. The Ship Channel Company presented their report for the Quarter ending June 30th, showing balance due Morris & Cummings in bonds of $726.15/100 which was on motion received and referred to the Finance Committee. The urgent necessity for a supply of water in the City in case of fire was brought up, and on motion referred to a committee of three, consisting of Aldermen Gussett, Berry and Henry. The Assessor and collector was, on motion instructed to make up his tax rolls from the last assessment rendered. The Ordinance Committee to whom the last ordinance passed at the regular meeting June 26th 1877, relating to the license tax on Liquor dealers had been referred for revision, recommended the repeal of said ordinance. on motion the recommendation was adopted and the ordinance repealed. A motion was made and seconded to issue Warrants in amounts of $2500 each, in lieu of and to cancel one now outstanding of $25000. The motion was lost. A committee consisting of Aldermen McLaughlin Gussett and Henry were appointed to investigate the conduct of Marshal Lawler on the evening of Saturday 21st Inst. Mr Henry asked to be relieved from the Committee, which request was granted, and Alderman Mussett substituted in his stead. The committee were requested to meet on Saturday evening next, to inquire fully into the matter and report at the next regular meeting. On motion the council adjourned Attest Peter Benson R. J. Denny Mayor pro Tem City Secretary 368 Regular Meeting of the City Council August 14th 1877 Present: Peter Benson President Pro Tem.; Aldermen – Young, Henry, Mussett, McLaughlin and Montgomery. City Marshal, Pat Lawler. Absent: Aldermen Berry & Gussett. The Minutes of the last regular meeting were read and adopted. The report of the Mayor of fines assessed in the Mayors Court for the month of July and up to the eleventh day of August amounting to $251.00 also showing a balance due him of $46.50/100 was on motion received and adopted and a warrant ordered issued for the payment of said sum due him. The reports of the Assessor and Collector of moneys collected during the month of July and paid to the Treasurer amounting to $26354/100 ; also of Occupation tax collected and paid in the for the same month of $31425/100 were received and on motion referred to the Finance Committee. The report of the City Secretary, showing $65.00 collected from Dog Licenses, and $51.00 from Drays was on motion received and referred to the Finance Committee. The committe for procuring the County Jail presented their report showing that arrangements had been effected for the same, on motion the report was received and adopted and the Committee discharged. The Finance Committee presented a report asking that they be allowed to consult Counsel on certain matters referred to them, which was on motion received and adopted. A communication from P. Doddridge was presented relating to moneys held by him to satisfy a claim in Justice Cahills Court, it having been garnished in his hands. on motion the communication was received and adopted and the Secretary was authorised to issue a warrant for the payment of said claim. A communication from U. Lott asking right of way across Broadway, along Cooper Alley and across Chapparal and Water Streets, to be operated by horse power, was presented, read, and on motion received. A motion was then made recommending that said request be not granted, which was seconded and unanimously carried. A petition from Alonzo Allen, asking that a pistol be returned to him which had been forfeited to the City, was presented, and on motion received, and the pistol ordered surrendered to him. The resignation of Mayor Russell was read 369 and on motion received and accepted. Two communications from S. M. Coles, asking the use of the Free School room for colored children, were received and on motion referred to the School committee. Also one from L. A. Reese for the same, was referred to the School Committee. The following bills were then presented and ordered paid. $2700 to E. Beard for feeding City prisoners $1.45/100 to Jno. Hall for tin ware for use of Prisoners $4.25/100 to J. B. Mitchell for lock for the Jail $1400 to Pat Whelan for Jail fees $3.25/100 to Pat Lawler for removing dead animals from Streets $27.00 to Pat Lawler for Dogs killed by the Police The bills of Julius Henry for $2.50/100 for can of Oil and of the Free Press for $24.00 for printing were, on motion referred to the Finance Committee. The bill of T. Beynon for improvements made Correction on Carranca Antelope Street of $21.20/100 was on motion referred to the Street Committee. On motion the office of Mayor was declared vacant, togather with that of one Alderman from each, the first and Fourth wards, and an election was ordered to fill said vacancies, to take place on the 25th Inst. Mr Geo French through the Assessor and Collector asked that a lot sold for taxes be deeded back to him, he paying costs and charges on the same, which request was on motion granted. A letter from the Silsby Manufacturing Company asking payment of Bond No. 3, was read and filed with the Secretary. On motion a vote of thanks was tendered to his Honor J. C. Russell for the considerate and kind manner with which he had always presided over the Council. On motion the Council then adjourned Attest Peter Benson R. J. Denny President Pro Tem,: Secretary 370 Regular Meeting of the City Council August 28th 1877 Present: Present: P. Benson, President Pro Tem,: Aldermen Young, Henry, Berry, Montgomery, Gussett Mc Laughlin and Mussett. City Marshal P Lawler The minutes of the last regular meeting were read and adopted. The several accounts of the City Tresurer were reported back correct by the Finance Committee and on motion the report was received and adopted The reports of the Assessor and Collector of moneys collected during the months of June and July, were reported back correct by the Finance Committee and, on motion the report was adopted. The report of the Secretary, of moneys collected from the Dog tax and dray licenses, was reported back correct by the Finance Committee, and on motion the report was received and adopted. The committee on the purchase of the Market Hall property reported verbally the progress made and asked further time, which was granted. The Ordinance Committee presented an Ordinance relating to the examination of all accounts by the Secretary in the place of the Finance Committee, which was on motion rejected. The bill of J. Henry for $250/100 for Oil and Chimneys which had been referred to the Finance Committee was reported back correct and its payment recommended on motion the report was adopted and bill ordered paid. The bill of the C. C. Free Press for $24.00 for City printing, referred to the Finance Committee was returned by them recommending that the bill be returned to the Proprietors of the paper for modification. The report was on motion adopted and the bill sent back. The resignation of P. Southard, Chief Engineer of the Fire Department, was then read and on motion received and accepted to take effect from the time a successor is elected and qualified. A Communication from Mrs F. J. Weymouth, asking the use of a room in the Public School house was, on motion referred to the school Committee. A Communication from W. G. Holden for supplying the City with water by means of pipes laid down in the streets was received and on motion referred to the Street Committee. The following bills were on motion ordered paid A. Allen $300 for Police duty on the 25th Inst. S. Eppes $2.50 for work on Streets with horse & dray 371 T. Beynon $2120/100 for improvements on Antelope Street P. Lawler $4.50/100 for the removal of Dead Animals from Streets Mrs Ann Allen $1700 for Board of City Prisoners. Ed Beard $5.50/100 for Board of City Prisoners The following bills for services as Judges and clerks at the late City Election, were, on motion laid on the table. O. T. Buddecke $3.00 J. H. McMahan $500 J. F. McClean $300 E. T. Mussett $5.55/100 Geo Minville $5.00 Geo E. Trippe $5.00 and Peter Dunn $500. The following resolution was then presented and adopted Resolved, That the Secretary be instructed to notify the C. C. Fire Department of the resignation of the Chief, and recommend the election of a competent person to fill the vacancy as early as possible. The following motion was then presented and adopted: That the Street Committee be and is hereby empowered to purchase two wheelbarrows, for the use of the City, and that the City Marshal procure a brand and brand the wheelbarrows and all tools belonging to the City. A motion was also made and carried, that the Marshal or one of the Police take all City Prisoners out at 8 O clock every morning and work them on the streets. On motion three tellers, Aldermen Young, Henry, and Berry were then appointed and the Election returns were opened ward by ward with the following result 1st Ward For Mayor Jno M. Moore received 46 Nelson Plato “ 7 For Alderman P. H. McManigle received 25 Thos. Shannon “ 23 Chas L. Lege 2 2d Ward For Mayor Jno M. Moore received 31 Nelson Plato “ 31 3d Ward For Mayor Jno M. Moore Received 18 Nelson Plato “ 57 4th Ward For Mayor Jno M Moore Received 29 Nelson Plato “ 26 For Alderman D McNeal Turner Jr Received 34 372 5th Ward For Mayor Jno M Moore Received 28 Nelson Plato “ 17 Jno M. Moore having received for Mayor 152 votes and Nelson Plato 138 votes – Jno M. Moore was declared duly elected to fill the unexpired term of Hon J. C. Russell resigned by 14 Majority. In ward No 1 – P. H. McManigle was declared duly elected alderman for the first Ward by 2 Majority In Ward No 4 – D. McNeal Turner was declared elected alderman. In the first Ward P. H. McManigle was elected to fill the unexpired term of Jas Cody resigned, and in the 4th Ward D McNeal Turner was elected to fill the unexpired term of Jno Hall resigned. The Secretary was on motion authorised to issue the certificates of election to those persons who had been declared elected. Mrs P. H. McManigle applied to have some lots deeded back to her that had been sold for City Taxes, she paying up the taxes and all costs accrued thereon, which request was on motion granted. The taking the City and Scholastic Census was brought up, and on motion was referred to the School Committee with instructions to have it done as cheaply as possible. On motion the Council then endorsed the call of a public meeting at the Market Hall, Wednesday Evening 29th Inst., to listen to the propositions to be made by Mr Richardson for supplying the City with water. The Assessor and Collector presented his tax Rolls with a bill of $100.00 for same. On motion the bill was received and laid on the table, upon motion which the Assessor and Collector withdrew the Tax Rolls. On motion the Council then adjourned. Attest R. J. Denny John M. Moore Secretary Mayor 373 Regular Meeting of the City Council September 11th 1877 Present: J. M. .Moore, Mayor Aldermen Benson, McManigle, Young, Berry, Gussett, Turner & McLaughlin. Absent: Aldermen Henry Montgomery & Mussett. The Minutes of the last Regular Meeting were read and adopted The report of P. Benson, President Pro Tem., of fines assessed and collected in the City Court, from August 12th to September 1st 1877, of $21.00, was on motion received and adopted. The Finance Committee asked further time to report on Ship Channel matters referred to them at a former meeting which was granted. A Communication from the City Police asking for an increase in their salary was presented and on motion received and laid on the table by the following vote: the ayes and noes being called for: Benson, Berry, Gussett & McLaughlin voting aye and McManigle Young and Turner voting nay A petition from the citizens of the 4th Ward praying that the Washed gulley in Tarancahua street be repaired was presented and on motion received and referred to the Street Committee. A petition from the Engineer of Pioneer Fire Com- pany asking for an increase of salary was presented and on motion received and laid on the table. A Communication from J. A Richardson, relative to establishing the Holly Water Works in the City, was received and on motion laid on the table. Alderman Montgomery than applied in writing for leave of absence for several weeks which was on motion granted. A communication from the Fire Department asking the confirmation of S. T. Foster the Chief Engineer elect was presented and on motion received and his election confirmed. It was then moved and seconded that a committee of three be appointed by the Mayor to inquire into some remarks made by Alderman McManigle in relation to the election of a chief engineer of the Fire Department, the yeas and nays were called for and the motion was carried by the following vote: Benson, Gussett, Berry, and McLaughlin voting aye and McManigle young & turner voting nay; Whereupon Alderman Berry Turner and Young were appointed the committee The following bills were then presented and on motion warrants ordered to issue for their payment. 374 Bill of Free Press for Printing $ 9.60 Bill “ “ “ “ Printing 24.00 Bill of Steve Stewart for work on Streets 3.00 Bill of Sam Moore for Work on Streets 5.00 Bill of J. B. Mitchell for Wheelbarrows 11.00 The bill of C. Cahill for services as presiding officer at the City election, togather with all other bills heretofore presented for the same services, were, on motion referred to a special committee of three, consisting of Alderman Benson, Young and McLaughlin. The bill of Costs in the Justices Court of H. L. Dreyer as the City amounting to $1240/100 was on motion laid on the table. The School Committee made a verbal report in relation to taking the Scholastic census, and after the matter was thoroughly canvassed, it was on motion refer- red back to the School Committee with instructions to take such action in relation thereto as may be thought by them most advisable. The Secretary was on motion authorized to buy a suitable box in which to place all the old city papers; No 25 also to buy lamps and oil for the use of the City Council. Ordinance relating The Ordinance relating to Hogs running at to hogs running large in the streets was, on motion amended and now at Large on the reads as follows. Streets Be it Ordained by the City Council of the City of Corpus Christi that the owner or owners of any hog or hogs shall not permit the same to run at large within the limits of the City Corporation under a penalty of two Dollars for each and every hog so running at large Be it further ordained that it shall be the duty of the city Marshal to seize all hogs so running at large in said city limits, of which he shall be unable to ascertain the owner and after twenty four hours notice posted in three public places in the City limits, giving a description of the animal, and the time and place of sale, he shall sell the same at public sale to the highest bidder for cash, and after deducting all costs that may have accrued, the balance if any, shall be turned over to the City Treasurer, for the benefit of the owner or owners of said hogs Alderman P. H. McManigle was, on motion added to the Ordinance Committee On motion the Council then adjourned. Attest R. J. Denny John M. Moore City Secretary Mayor 375 Called Meeting of the City Council September 15th A. D. 1877 Present: Jno. M. Moore, Mayor Alderman – Benson, McManigle, Young, Berry, Gussett, Turner McLaughlin, Henry and Mussett. City Marshal P. Lawler Absent: Alderman – Montgomery The Mayor stated that the meeting had been called for the purpose of considering the necessary work to be done on the streets. A proposition in writing from Mr Burns was presented by the Street committee, making two distinct offers for the improve- ment of the Streets, which was, on motion received; the Council thinking that said proposals were not sufficiently explicit, on motion, referred the matter back to the Street committee, with instructions to draw up an agreement between Mr Burns and the City to be presented to the Board at an adjourned meeting on Tuesday evening next, and if approved, to be ratified and the work begun. A proposition for building bridges or culverts at the intersections of the streets was also presented and on motion received and referred back to the Street Committee, to take the same course and be treated as the proposition of Mr Burns had been. On Motion the Council adjourned to Tuesday evening Sep. 18th at half past seven O.clock. Tuesday Evening Sep 18th Council met pursuant to adjournment Present: Jno. M. Moore, Mayor; Alderman – Benson, McManigle, Berry, Gussett, Turner, McLaughlin, Mussett, City Marshal, P. Lawler. Absent: Alderman – Young, Henry and Montgomery. On Motion a recess of five minutes was declared to await the arrival of Alderman Young and Henry. After recess, the two Alderman having arrived, the Council was again called to order. The agreement that had been prepared by the Street Committee to be entered into between Mr Burns and the City in relation to improvements to be made on the Streets, was presented, and, on motion, received, and after it was amended by inserting that the work should be paid for in Bonds bearing Eight per cent interest, was, on motion, adopted, and the Mayor was authorized to enter into said contract on the part of the City by the following vote, the ayes and noes being called: Aldermen Benson, McManigle, Turner, Henry, Young McLaughlin and Mussett voting aye: 376 and Aldermen Gussett and Berry voting nay. On motion the Council then adjourned. Attest R. J. Denny John M Moore Secretary Mayor Regular Meeting of the City Council September 25th 1877 Present: Jno. M. Moore, Mayor; Aldermen – Benson, McManigle, Young, Henry Berry Gussett Turner McLaughlin and Mussett. City Marshal P. Lawler Absent: Alderman – Montgomery. The Minutes of the last regular and subsequent called meetings were read and adopted The Committee appointed to investigate the case of Alderman McManigle recommended that he be honorably discharged; on motion the report was received and adopted. The Committee appointed to fix the compensation of Judges and Clerks of City Elections, presented their report recommending that two Dollars per day be allowed, which was received and adopted. A report from Geo. Dye, Auctioneer, of the sale of some pistols belonging to the City, that had been left with him for sale, was presented and referred to a special com- mittee of three consisting of Aldermen Henry Berry & Young. Three petitions for positions on the Police force of the City to fill a vacancy caused by the resignation of Chas Wicks, were presented and on motion received, as follows: one from Albert Allen, one from John Akard, and one from M. Hinijosa; on motion the petitions were referred to a special committee, consisting of Aldermen Gussett Henry and McManigle, to report on same in ten minutes. A recess of ten minutes was then declared to await the return of the Committee. After the return of the committee the Council was again called to order and the committee presented their report recommending the appointment of A. Allen; on motion the report was adopted and Albert Allen was declared duly elected. The City Treasurer presented a communication asking that his commissions be increased, which was lost by the following votes: Aldermen Benson, Henry, Berry, Gussett, McLaughlin, Young and Mussett voting 377 nay; and Aldermen McManigle Young & Turner voting yea. The following bills were then ordered paid James Burns $1000/00 for work on the Streets Chas Wicks $2666/100 “ Police duty P. H. McManigle $512 ½/100 “ Money expended on Streets Ed Beard $25.50/100 “ Board of City Prisoners Sam Shoemaker $6.00/100 “ Work on a pump J. Henry $1350/100 “ Blankets for use of City Prisoners Heath and Lane $513/100 “ Lamps and Oil for use of the Council Wm Power $12.50/100 “ Curbing Streets in front of the Turner property on Mezquite Street and the Scott property on the same street the amounts to be charged up against said pieces of property. The bill of Vineyard and Bro. of $2993/100 running since May 1875, was, on motion referred to the Finance Com- mittee. Ordinance here referred } An Ordinance was then presented and adopted, rescinding to not approved by the } the ordinance authorizing the Secretary to collect licenses on Mayor } Drays Hacks and Dogs. These Ordinances were not } Three other Ordinances were adopted which togather with approved by the Mayor } the one above referred to, will appear at the foot of these proceedings A Resolution relating to The following resolution was then presented by Alderman Same will be found on Gussett and adopted. page 387. and the Resolved, By the Board of Aldermen of the City of Corpus Ordinances after being Christi in council assembled, That, whereas, that heretofore, amended on pages 388 Policemen of the City, claiming to be sick, or for other causes, and 389 have appointed a deputy to act, - Now therefore be it known that the Council of the City will not recognize any such appointments; and that in case of sickness or any other good cause, approved by the Mayor, he, the said Mayor, shall be the only authorized party to fill such temporary vacancy, and said appointee shall be paid out of the wages of the party so excused, and with warrant on the City Treasurer, showing such service and in whose place so serving. It was then moved seconded and carried, that the Secretary be and is hereby instructed to issue warrants to all judges and Clerks at the two last City Elections, at the rate of two Dollars per day, for each and every officer so serving, and a certificate from the Presiding officer of said Elections shall be a sufficient authority for him to issue the Warrants. H. W. Berry was appointed on the Finance Com- mittee by the Mayor and the appointment was sustained by the following vote: Aldermen Benson Henry Turner Gussett McLaughlin voting yea; and Alderman McManigle, Young and Mussett voting nay. A motion to adjourn was lost Aldermen McManigle and Mussett voting for it and Aldermen Benson, Young, Henry, Berry, Turner, Gussett and McLaughlin 378 voting against it. The Finance Committee asked that they might be authorized to employ an attorney to investigate the Bonds and matters pertaining to the Ship Channel, which was granted by the following vote: Alderman Benson, Henry, Berry, Gussett and McLaughlin voting for it, and Aldermen McManigle, Turner, Young and Mussett voting against it. A motion was made to adjourn, which was with- drawn at the request of the Mayor. The Mayor then made a verbal statement in relation to a pistol that had been taken by the Police from Mr John McMahan and forfeited to the City, and asking the Council whether he should return the pistol or not to its former owner. On motion the Council decided that the ordinances should be enforced and against the return of the pistol. The dangerous condition of the Concrete building of C. Cahill on Chapparal Street was then presented and on motion, referred to the Street Committee with instructions to investigate the State that said building is in, and if found to be dangerous, to be by them condemned and ordered taken down. Some irregularities in the conduct of Dr A Ansell quarantine officer at Aransas Pass, were then brought to the notice of the Council and a motion was made and carried that Dr Ansell’s personal attention be demanded in boarding every vessel that passes over the Bar. On Motion the council then adjourned Attest R. J. Denny John M Moore Sec Mayor Called Meeting of the City Council Sep 28th 1877 Present: Jno M. Moore, Mayor; Aldermen – Benson, McManigle, Young, Berry Gussett Turner McLaughlin Henry & Mussett. City Marshal P. Lawler: Absent: Alderman Montgomery Previous to proceeding to act upon the business for which the meeting was called, The Mayor made 379 some remarks with respect to a recent article which appeared in the daily Gazette of the 28th Inst., admonishing the Council as a body to act in such a manner as not to give rise to such remarks and comments in the future. Following these remarks the Mayor then stated to the Council that the object of the meeting was for the purpose of con- sidering the proposition of Mr Burns with referance to repairs on the streets, and hearing the explanation of Dr Ansell with regard to matters brought up at last meeting of this Council. A Resolution was presented by H. W. Berry recom- mending that Bonds to the amount of $80000 bearing 8% interest, payable in Six, Twelve, Eighteen and Twenty four months, be issued for the sole purpose of repairing the Streets, which was received by amending the same so as to read $100000 in place of $80000 in the original, and by inserting the words “Six and Twelve months” instead of the original Six, Twelve, Eighteen and Twenty four months, and adopted so amended by the following vote: Aldermen – Benson, McManigle, Henry, Young, Berry, Turner, Mussett, McLaughlin, voting for and N. Gussett voting against the resolution. It was then moved and seconded, that the sum of $80000 of the Ad Valorem tax of the current year be set aside for the payment of the bonds, and that the Bonds be redeemable at the option of the City Council at any time prior to maturity, which was carried by the following vote: Benson McManigle Henry Young Berry Turner Mussett McLaughlin voting for and N Gussett against. A motion was then made and carried that, as Dr Ansell was present, he be allowed the privilege of addressing the Council with referance to some complaints made against him as to a neglect of duty as quarantine officer. Dr Ansell then explained at length to the Council the situation of affairs at the Pass, giving a report in full of the manner in which he had discharged his duty as the Quarantine officer of this City. It was then moved and seconded that the explanation of Dr Ansell be received and deemed sat- isfactory. carried unanimously. The Meeting then adjourned. Special Meeting Septr 28th 1877 Present: The Mayor and Aldermen as above Absent Alderman Montgomery The Mayor having called the meeting to order stated that the object for which the Council was 380 convened was for the purpose of considering the resignation of Samuel Shoemaker, Fire Engineer of Pioneer fire Co No One (1). A communication from James Downing, foreman of the Fire Department, enclosing the resignation of the Engineer of Engine No (1) was presented; when it was moved and seconded that the communication be not received. Carried unanimously. On motion the Council then adjourned John M Moore D. McNeal Turner Jr. Sec. Pro,Tem, Called Meeting of the City Council October 1st 1877 Present: J. M. Moore, Mayor Aldermen Benson, McManigle, Henry, Young, Berry Turner, Gussett, McLaughlin: City Marshal Lawler Absent: Aldermen Mussett Montgomery & Secretary The Mayor stated that the meeting had been called to act upon the resignation of Marshal Lawler, which resignation was then read, and on motion received by the following vote: Aldermen Benson, Young, McManigle, Gussett & Turner voting for its acceptance and Aldermen Berry, Henry and McLaughlin voting against it. The office of City Marshall was then declared vacant and Wm Ohler was nominated and unani mously elected to fill the vacancy caused by the resig- nation of P. Lawler, until a City Marshal could be regularly elected, and the Mayor was authorized to issue the order of election to take place as soon as the required notice could be given. On motion the Council then adjourned John M Moore P. H. McManigle Mayor Sec Pro Tem 381 Regular Meeting of the City Council October 9th 1877 Present: Jno M. Moore, Mayor; Aldermen; Benson, McManigle, Young, Berry, Gussett, Turner, McLaughlin, Henry, Mussett and Montgomery City Marshal Wm Ohler The reading of the minutes of the last regular and subsequent called meetings was dispensed with. The Street Committee asked further time in regard to the condition of the Cahill building, which was granted. The Mayor presented his report of fines assessed in the City Court amounting $12600, which, on motion, was received and adopted. The reports of the Treasurer for the Quarter ending Sep 30th of Fire Engine fund, City Debt Bond, General Fund Account Occupation tax and for street improvement were received and referred to the Finance Committee. The Assessor and collector presented his report of Occu- pation tax collected for the Quarter ending Sep 30th amoun- ting to $384.84/100 which, was received and referred to the Finance Committee. The action of the Mayor in receiving a warrant in payment of a fine and in paying money to the Street contractor was, approved and confirmed. The action of the Mayor in appointing Messers Akard and Shaw on the Police force was confirmed by vote of the Council, and he was further authorized to appoint Thos. Parker as Wharf Policeman and to oversee the Prisoners at work on the Streets and his pay for said services shall be at the rate of fifty Dollars per month for the time he is on duty, an extra policeman was also, appointed to do duty at night as long as his services may be required. M. Hinijosa was nominated for the position and elected. The following bills were ordered paid: Dan Ohler for work on the Streets $300 this bill to be placed in the hands of the Marshal to be collected from the property owners; Ed Beard for board of City prisoners $17.50. J. Akard for police duty $23.33. Rent of Jail for City Prisoners $22.50 and the Secretary was authorized to draw a monthly warrant for said rent in the future: and a bill of William Ohler for having dead animals removed from the Streets, amounting to $3.15/100. A motion was then made and seconded that the petitions for increase in the pay of city officers that had been laid on the table be now called up, which motion was carried; whereupon Alderman Gussett declared his intention to withdraw from the Board and retired from the room. 382 Action on the increase of the per centage allowed to the City Treasurer was, on motion postponed to the next regular Meeting. There being at present no Engineer for Pioneer fire Co. No 1, and it having been made known to the Council that a competant man could be had for Seventy five Dollars per month, to take effect from the time the newly elected or chosen engineer enters upon his duties, and that Mr Shoemaker continue to receive his usual salary as long as he fills the position of Engineer. The following Resolutions were then offered and on motion adopted: Resolved, That the City Council, in regular meeting assem- bled, tender to Mr Sam Shoemaker a vote of thanks for his faithful performance of duty since his employment as City Fire Engineer, and that this resolution be spread upon the minutes of this Council, and that the Secretary fur- nish him with a copy of the same under seal of the City. Resolved, That the City Council amend the rules governing the working of the City Council by adding after the words “speak twice on one subject” that “each member shall not be allowed to speak to exceed three minutes on any one subject without the consent of the Council” This Amended refers to Section Six of the City Charter Rule Six Resolved, That the Mayor be authorized to call an election of tax payers of the City to vote upon the Question of taxes, to ascertain whether or not they are willing to allow themselves taxed for Fire and Water purposes. In accordance with the last resolution the Mayor was, on motion authorized to call an Election for Saturday next, at the same time and places as the election for City Marshal. An additional Ten Dollars was then added to the regular pay of the City Policemen to go into effect from the first of October. Ed Beard was, on motion, appointed Jailor, and as compensation for his services is to receive the commitments and releases of prisoners. It was moved and carried that in the provision already made by resolution of this Council to pay Mr Burns for Street improvements the word “Warrants” be inserted and substituted in place of the word “Bonds.” The Secretary was on motion authorized to issue a warrant to Mr Burns for $35.00 to be turned in to the City Treasurer as a voucher for Money already paid to said Burns by the Mayor. On Motin this regular meeting was then 383 adjourned until Tuesday evening next at half past seven O clock John M Moore Attest Mayor R. J. Denny Secretary Adjourned Regular Meeting of the City Council Oct 16th/77 Present: Jno. M. Moore, Mayor; Aldermen – Benson, Young, Berry, Henry, Turner, McLaughlin City Marshal W. Ohler Absent: Aldermen – McManigle, Gussett, Montgomery & Mussett The minutes of the last regular and two called meetings were read and adopted. The Committee appointee to examine into the condition of the Concrete building of C Cahill reported that the brick work of said building was safe, but recommended that a portion of gallery still remaining, together with the decayed lintels over the doors and windows and all loose cement be removed as not being considered safe, which report was on motion received and adopted. Alderman Berry asked to be relieved from the committee on the purchase of the Market Hall. A motion was made to discharge the committee but was not seconded. A motion was then made and carried, that a committee of one additional be added to said committee, to ascertain whether or not the money could be had for the purchase of the property. Alderman Henry was appointed the committee of one. Aldermen Turner reported verbally about depre- dations that had been committed on the Public School Property. A committee appointed by the Mayor to investi- gate and report on the origin of the late fire, reported that from the best data that could be had they believed the fire was spontaneous combustion and recom- mended that suitable ordinances be passed to guard against an occurrence of the kind in the future. A communication from the Chief Engineer of the Fire Department stating the wants in full of said department and asking for the purchase of the necessary apparatus to secure more efficient service in case of fire, was presented, and on motion, both the report of the committee above referred to and the 384 communication of the Chief Engineer were received and on motion adopted. No 26 The following Ordinances were then on motion adopted An Ordinance conferring the authority on the Be it ordained by the City Council of the city of Corpus Chief Engineer to Christi, That whenever a fire occurs within the City assume Command limits the Chief Engineer of the Fire department, in addition at Fires to the authority already conferred by virtue of existing Ordinances, be hereby empowered to act in conjunction with the Mayor; and he is hereby authorized to direct, control and execute such authority with respect to the preservation of life and property as he may deem requisite in the emergency and legally justifiable, and to demand assistance from any and every member of the City Police force, who may be present, to assist in the enforcement of his orders. Approved Jno M. Moore Mayor No 27. An Ordinance in relation to Chimneys Be it ordained by the City Council of the City of Corpus Flues Stove Pipes &c Christi, That the Mayor, City Marshal and Chief and the Officers to Engineer, be hereby authorized, to direct, determine, establish, regulate the same and execute such regulations concerning chimneys, flues, the fixing of stove pipe or other pipe where fire is used, or where fires are used in yards or on Streets within the limits of said city, either for domestic, manufacturing or camp purposes, or for any other purpose, as in their discretion they may deem proper for the better protection of property from the ravages of fire; and any person failing to obey the requirements of said Mayor, Marshal and Chief Engineer, upon written notice signed by the Mayor and served by the Marshal, shall be deemed guilty of a misdemeanor and subject to a fine of not less than five nor more than fifty Dollars; and that all Ordinances in conflict with the above be and are hereby repealed. Approved Jno. M. Moore Mayor A petition from H. Keller, asking the Council to appoint a committee to act with a citizen or citizens chosen by him to ascertain the amount of loss sustained by him in tearing down his house to prevent the spread of the fire and for other and general relief in the premises was presented, and on motion referred to Aldermen Benson, Turner and Young. The report of the Ship Channel Company for the quarter ending Sep 30th, 1877, showing balance due Morris & Cummings of $580.49/100 in Bonds was presented 385 and referred to the Finance Committee. The Secretary was authorized to issue warrants to judges and clerks for services at the last election. A request was presented by S. Shoemaker asking that a warrant due him of $1451/100 be issued to H Heller, and his request was on motion complied with and the Secretary was authorized to issue the warrant. A warrant was ordered to issue to Col Plato for $300 being the amount paid by him for a house in which to hold the election in the 5th Ward. A warrant for $6000 was ordered to issue to Jas Burns for improvement on the Streets, and one for $500 to pay for a desk for the City. It was then Resolved, by the City Council of the City of Corpus Christi, that the sum of Five Hundred Dollars of the Ad Valorem tax of the City for the Current year be set aside for purchasing 500 feet of hose for the use of Pioneer Fire Co. No . Adopted unanimously, and Capt S. T. Foster was on motion authorized to make the purchase. It was then Resolved by the City Council of the City of Corpus Christi, That an election be ordered to be held in the City of Corpus Christi on the 29th day of October 1877 amended and made for the purpose of obtaining the views of the tax payers of the 1/8 of 1% City as to whether they will be taxed to the amount of ¼ 1/8 of 1%. for the purpose of obtaining the amount of money sufficient to furnish the present Fire Department of this City with the proper apparatus necessary for rendering it efficient and available in time of fire; and be it further resolved, that the said election shall be held at each Ward in the City at the time above specified, and that the Mayor is hereby authorized to issue the proper orders for said election. A motion was made to raise the Salary of the Marshal, but received no second. A motion was made and carried to defer the matter to the next meeting. A motion to defer the opening of the Election returns for City Marshal to the next meeting was lost, and Aldermen Benson Turner and Henry having been appointed tellers the returns were opened ward by ward with the following Result For Marshal Jas Downing S. H. Tinney Received Received In Ward No 1 - 33 votes Ward 1 - 8 votes “ “ “ 2 - 43 “ “ 2 - 22 “ “ “ “ 3 - 50 “ “ 3 - 9 “ “ “ “ 4 - 29 “ “ 4 - 10 “ “ “ “ 5 - 34 “ “ 5 - 4 “ 189 53 Jas Downing having received One hundred and eighty 386 nine votes and S. H. Tinney fifty three votes. Jas Downing was declared duly elected to fill the unexpired term of P. Lawler resigned, by 136 Majority, and the Secretary was instructed to issue notice to Jas Downing of his Election. On motion the Council then adjourned John M. Moore Attest Mayor R. J. Denny Secretary Regular Meeting of the City Council October 23d A. D. 1877 Present: Jno. M. Moore, Mayor; Aldermen – Benson, McManigle, Young, Berry, Turner, McLaugh- lin, Henry & Mussett. City Marshal Jas Downing Absent: Aldermen – Gussett & Montgomery The minutes of the last called and the regular meetings were read and adopted. The Committee on the purchase of the Market Hall property reported that at the present time the money could not be had; and asked to be discharged from further duty as said committee; the report was received and adopted and the Committee discharged. The Finance Committee reported back as correct the reports of the Ship Channel Company for the Quarters ending June 30th & Septr 30th; the report was received and adopted and ordered filed with the Secretary. The Committee appointed to investigate and report as to the property destroyed belonging to H. Keller during the late fire, reported that the same had been unnecessarily destroyed, and recommended that it be put in order at the expense of the City; the report was received and the Com- mittee discharged. Alderman J. Henry was then appointed a commissioner on the part of the City to adjust the matter with H. Keller. A communication was presented from W. S. Mc Campbell asking to be reimbursed for the destruction of his fence, during the late fire, by the Fire Department, which was received and referred to the Commissioner already appointed to adjust the matters pertaining to the fire. The bill of Free press for $1015/100 was ordered paid for City printing. Bill of Jas Downing for $225/100 was 387 ordered paid for removing dead animals from the street, the bill of John Ashley for hauling off a dead calf of $200 was referred back for correction, it being considered an overcharge; a bill of $300 paid by the City for improvement of the street in front of Mr Blumenthals property was returned by the Marshal with the report that Mr Blumenthal refused pay- ment, whereupon the Mayor was authorized to enter suit in Justices Court for collection. Three Ordinances were then passed which will appear at the foot of these proceedings. It was then Resolved by the City Council of the City of Resolution repealing Corpus Christi, That Whereas, this Council has at a previous an Ordinance meeting passed an Ordinance empowering the City Secretary (Ord. passed 5-22-77) to collect the license tax on drays, hacks and dogs, and, whereas, Page 346 said ordinance is in direct conflict with section 23 of the City Charter; the said ordinance be and the same is hereby rescinded. The bill of C. Cahill for costs of a suit in his court was on motion taken from the table and action thereon deferred until the next regular meeting, and the Justice required to bring up his docket of the case to be shown to the Council at that time. Alderman Berry then presented the following Resolution Resolved, That the City Council appoint two of its members a committee in conjunction with one or more men to be chosen by the representatives or agents of Morris & Cummings who together with the City Surveyor, shall proceed at once and ascertain if the Ship Channel comes up to the require- ments of the contract between said Morris & Cummings and the City of Corpus Christi. In compliance with the above resolution the Mayor appointed aldermen Berry and Henry, with the understanding that an alternate could be sent in place of Alderman Henry provided he should be unable to go and act. The committee were on motion, authorized to hire their own boat. A petition was received from Lee Riggs asking for an appointment on the Police force of the City, which was received and action deferred until the next regular meeting or until a vacancy occurs in the present force, or is reor- ganized by the City Marshal. The Marshal was then instructed to reorganize the police force of the City at once and report the names of the men and the number required that he thinks will be necessary for the service. The sum of One Hundred Dollars was then appropriated out of the moneys already set aside for street improvements, to put the fire well at the 388 corner of Mesquite and William Streets in good order. Alderman McManigle offered the following Resolution Resolved, by the City Council, That in addition to the present pay of the City Marshal and Policemen, that they receive an additional compensation of ten Dollars, with which to feed their horses. The Election ordered asking the Citizens to vote for a tax of one Quarter of one per cent for fire and water purposes, was, by motion, changed, and one eighth of one per cent, substituted instead of a Quarter as had been ordered. A motion to return a pistol that had been forfeited and now held by the City to its former owner, was lost and the following resolution was adopted. Resolved by the Mayor and Council, That hereafter whenever weapons of any kind are declared confiscated by the Mayor the Marshal shall sell the same after 48 hours notice, by posting in three public places in the City. Alderman Turner was appointed a committee of one to revise the rules of order and insert new ones if found necessary. The Ordinance committee was, on motion, instructed to prepare a suitable ordinance defining limits in which gun powder Kerosine Oil and Turpentine may be stored, and fixing penalty for any violation of its provisions. The City Marshal presented his recommendations for policemen, recommending that Wm Ohler, W. A. Shaw, Lee Riggs, Thos Basquez and John Akard be appointed, which report was, on motion returned to the Marshal to have one name left off. The Marshal erased the name of John Akard, after which the following named persons were confirmed City Policemen by the Council: Wm Ohler, W. A. Shaw, Lee Riggs and Thos Basquez. On motion the Council then adjourned. Attest R. J. Denny John M Moore Secretary Mayor No 28 Ordinance Be it Ordained by the City Council of the City of fixing the pay Corpus Christi, That the per diem of all judges and clerks of Judges & Clerks of any City elections shall be Five Dollars, the same of City Elections to be paid out of any funds of the City Treasury, not otherwise appropriated. And be it further ordained that this Ordinance is to include all unsettled claims of Judges and clerks of elections heretofore, and be it further ordained that all ordinances or parts of Ordinances in conflict with this, be and the same 389 are hereby repealed. Approved John M Moore No 29. Mayor Ordinance relating to Hogs Sheep & Be it ordained by the City Council of the City of Goats running Corpus Christi, That it shall be unlawful for the Owner at large or owners of any hogs, goats and sheep to allow the same to run at large, or herd the same within the corporate limits of the City. Sec. 2 Be it further ordained, That it shall be the duty of the Police force of said City to seize said animals so running at large, or so herded, and place them in the City pound. and notify the owner or owners of said fact, if known; and in case of non knowledge of ownership, the Marshal of said City shall sell the same after forty eight hours notice of sale posted in different parts of said city, to the highest and best bidder for cash, and after deducting the pound fees, the residue if any, shall be turned over to the Treasurer for the benefit of the owner or owners. Approved John M Moore Mayor No 30 Ordinance to Be it ordained by the City Council of the City of Corpus prevent the Police Christi, That for the better efficiency of the Police force force from of said City, it shall be unlawful for any member of entering grocerys said force, or for any officer of same to loiter, lounge, or liquor stores or enter any grocery store bar room or tippling shop while on duty, except when called on to make an arrest, or to preserve order. Sec. 2 Be it further ordained, That for the first violation of the previous section of this ordinance, the offender shall be fined not less than five nor more than fifteen dollars, and that for the second offense in addition to said fine, the offender shall be dismissed from the force, and that the affidavit of one credible person before the Mayor shall be sufficient Sec. 3. That this ordinance shall take effect and be in force from and after its passage. Approved John M Moore 390 Regular Meeting of the City Council Novr 13th 1877 Present: Jno. M. Moore, Mayor; Aldermen – Benson, Young, Henry, Berry, Turner and McLaughlin. City Marshal Jas Downing Absent: McManigle, Montgomery, Gussett and Mussett and City Secretary Denny The reading of the Minutes was dispensed with and alderman Montgomery absence was excused on account of Sickness. The Mayors report showing fines assessed in the City Court for the month of October of $198.00 was on motion received and adopted. Marshal Downings report of confiscated pistols sold amounting to $27.00 was received and adopted. Assessor and Collector Wm J Robertsons report of occupation tax collected during the Month of October of $365.05 was received and on motion referred to the Finance Committee. His report of Hack and Dray licenses collected amounting to $54.12/100 was also received and referred to the Finance Committee. The report of W. Ohler of confiscated pistols sold by him while acting Marshal of $14.25/100 was received and adopted. The Report of Dr A. Ansell, Quarantine officer at Aransas Pass, received and adopted. His account for $1125.00 against the State, ordered approved and endorsed by the Secretary. The Ship Channel Committee asked for further time which was granted. The Commissioner on the part of the City to examine into the claim of H. Keller for damages retained during the late fire asked further time, which was granted. It was moved and carried that the Treasurer be requested to attach vouchers to his quarterly reports; also to turn over to the Finance Committee all vouchers that have been paid by him, for cancellation, and take a receipt for all paid warrants so turned over to the Fin- ance Committee. A communication from Pioneer Fire Company, asking reimbursement for money expended, was referred to a special committee consisting of Aldermen Turner Henry & Benson. A letter from the Silsby Manufacturing Co. to the Mayor asking whether the Fire Engine Bond due to Co. and payable Jan 1st 1878 would be met at 391 maturity, was presented. The Secretary was authorized to write to the Said Company and say that it would be paid by March 1st, when the special tax levied for that purpose is finally due. The following bills were then ordered paid. C. Cahill $1475/100 for costs in case of H. L. Dreyer vs the City. Wm Powers $4000 for fixing Culverts. F Atkinson $400 for fixing Culverts Sundry bills $5.50 for removing dead animals; R. Jordan $9600 for use of the Schooner Emma Clara in surveying the Ship Channel, eight days at $12.00 per day. Wm Powers $13.50 for making a pump; A. Allen $5.00 for ringing the bell for one month, Ed Beard $8950/100 for board commitments and releases of city prisoners; Wm J. Robertson $5000 for making extra assessment rolls, togather with the bills of all Judges and clerks at the last city election. October 29th 1877 It was then resolved that the per diem of all presiding officers, Judges and clerks of all City elections that may hereafter be held, shall be two Dollars to each and every such officer. The Mayor was authorized to buy a clock for the Council room, not to exceed in cost the sum of $15.00. It was resolved, that hereafter draymen shall be allowed for hauling off a dead beef, horse, Mule or Cow, fifty cents per head, and for smaller animals twenty five cents per head. No 31 The following Ordinance was then adopted An Ordinance relating to the opening and closing Be it ordained by the City Council of the City of Corpus Christi Bar Rooms Christi; That it shall not be lawful for any owner, proprietor or agent of any establishment within the City of Corpus Christi, by whatsoever name the same may be called or known, wherein vinous, spirituous or malt or other intoxicating liquors are kept for sale in quantities less than a quart, to keep such establishment open to a later hour than Twelve O’clock at night, nor to open the same at an earlier hour than Four O clock in the morning; nor shall it be lawful to sell give donate, or otherwise dispose of any vinous, spirituous malt or other intoxicating liquors in any such establishment, to any person or persons, under any pretext whatsoever, between the hours above specified, during which time each and every door or entrance to such establishment shall be kept closed, and any person or persons found violating any or either of the provisions of this article shall be fined in a sum of not less than ten Dollars, nor more than one hundred Dollars, for each contravention thereof, and shall also be liable to a further penalty of not exceeding fifteen days imprisonment, said fine to be recovered before the Mayor or Recorder of said City 392 That all ordinances in conflict with the above be and are hereby repealed, and that this ordinance take effect in ten days after its passage and publication. Approved John M Moore Mayor The Ordinance Committee was ordered to prepare an ordinance for the punishment of persons giving or selling liquor to prisoners confined in the City Jail. The Mayors action in appointing an extra policeman, was on motion sustained. Ed Beard having tendered his resignation as City Jailor the office was on motion abolished. The Marshal and Police force of the City were authorized to take charge of the City Jail, and the Marshal was empowered to enforce the […ining] of the same by any prisoners confined therein, and it was resolved that the commitments and releases of prisoners hereto- fore paid to the City Jailor, shall hereafter be paid into the City Treasury. The Marshal was authorized to employ some one that would board the city prisoners at fifty cents per day and to buy a half dozen pairs of nickel plated handcuffs. On motion the Council adjourned to Monday evening 19th Inst Attest John M Moore Mayor Sec Pro Tem Regular adjourned meeting Monday evening 19th Inst there being no quorum present the meeting was adjourned to the next regular meeting Attest R. J. Denny John M Moore Sec Mayor Regular Meeting of the City council Novr 27th 1877 Present: Jno. M. Moore, Mayor, Aldermen – Benson McManigle Henry Montgomery Turner Mussett & McLaughlin Absent Aldermen Young, Gussett, & Berry The Meeting was called to order by the Mayor who stated that owing to the Firemans Ball the Council 393 would vacate the room. On motion the general order of business was dispensed with and the Mayor was authorized to rent a Jail for City Prisoners On motion a committee of three was appointed by the Mayor Consisting of Aldermen McManigle Benson and Mussett to make arrangements in relation to fixing up a Jail and by subsequent motion the Marshal was added to the Committee It was then Resolved that the sum of ten Dollars be set aside from the whole amount of fines assessed and collected during each month to pay for the rent of a house to be used as a Jail for the City prisoners, and that the Mayor be and is hereby authorized to reserve the same out of any money in his hands. On motion this regular meeting was then adjourned until Friday evening next at 7½ O,clock; Attest John M Moore Sec pro tem Mayor Adjourned Regular Meeting of the City Council Novr 30th 1877 Present: Jno M. Moore, Mayor; Aldermen – Benson, McManigle, Yung, Henry, Berry, Turner, Mussett and McLaughlin. City Marshal Jas Downing Absent: Aldermen Gussett and Montgomery The minutes of the last two regular meetings were read and adopted. A communication from S. T. Foster Chief engineer of the Fire department, asking that Warrants be issued for $500.00 appropriated to buy hose, and recommending the repairs of two fire Wharves, was received and the Warrants were ordered issued, and the repairs of the fire Wharves was ` referred to the Street committe. The Street Committee recommended that another fire Wharf be built at the foot of Starr Street, which recommenda- tion was adopted and the Chairman of the Street Committee was instructed to attend to it. It was then Resolved, That the balance of the appropriation of $1000 made for the benefit and repairs of the Streets, be set aside as a fund, for the use and benefit of the Fire department, and that the same be added to the amount already appropriated for that purpose, and that the same can only be expended in the construction of fire Wharves, fire wells, in the purchase of hose, and for rendering the 394 fire department efficient, until hereinafter repealed. Ship channel L. Caldwell City Engineer presented his report on the Report by survey of the Ship Channel together with a chart. On motion L. Caldwell the report was received and ordered filed. with Chart A communication from Jas E. Weymouth, relating to the action of the School Committee in changing the room occupied by Mrs Weymouth in the Public School House, was read, and on motion the action of the School Committee was approved and endorsed by the Council. It subsequently appearing that this action had been taken by one of the School Committee, only, the approval and endorsement of the Council was reconsidered, and the School committee was requested to go in a body and investigate the matter and report at the next regular meeting, to which time the matter was laid over. A bill of costs presented by the Police force of the City for $145.90 was referred to a committee consisting of Aldermen Turner Young & Mussett. By request the Mayor was added to the committee. The following bills were ordered paid: Willis Williams hauling shell on streets $1650/100 ; Noessel & Son Nails for Culverts $7.00 Woodman & [Suligson] rakes and nails $5.75 P. H. McManigle Sundry drayages paid by him in fixing streets $765 Jas Kelley, services as fire engineer for 23 days $5750/100 Atkinson & Bro, repairing City Jail $250; L Caldwell surveying Ship Channel $64.00 Wm Corkill boarding City prisoners $21.00. The bill of P. H. McManigle for superintending work on the Streets was not allowed, and his report showing 140 feet of lumber, 50 lbs of Nails and 20 pounds of spikes left on hand, was received, and he was requested to turn the property over to the City Marshal. An Ordinance about fire limits and one relating to the storing of gunpowder, oil &c, was referred back to the No 32 ordinance committee An Ordinance in The following Ordinance was then adopted. relation to giving liquor or arms to City Prisoners in Jail Be it ordained by the City Council of the City of Corpus Christi, That it shall not be lawful for any person or persons to give any vinous spirituous or malt liquors of or any knife, pistol or other deadly weapon by whatsoever name known or called, or tools of any description, or any article of food (except when authorized to give such food by the city Marshal or Jailor) or place or deposit the same within reach of any prisoner or prisoners confined in the City Jail. Sec. 2. If any person or persons shall violate any portion of the foregoing section, they shall be deemed guilty of a 395 misdemeanor and he, she, or they, so offending shall, on conviction before the Mayor or Recorder’s Court be liable to a fine of not less than five nor more than twenty Dollars, or imprisonment or both fine and imprisonment for each and every violation thereof; such imprisonment not to exceed fifteen days. This ordinance to take effect after ten days publication in the official paper Approved John M Moore A committee consisting of Aldermen Henry Yung and Mussett were appointed to attend the next washing of the Fire Engine, and to report as to the working of the Engine and the efficiency of the present fire Engineer. Alderman Gussetts seat was declared vacant Aldermen McManigle McLaughlin & Turner were appointed a committee to examine the Rolls of the assessor and collector. The Secretary was instructed to draw a warrant in favor of the Mayor for $50.00 to be turned in to the Treasurer in lieu of that amount paid by him to Mr Burns for work on the Streets. It was moved and carried that the Aldermen in their respective wards take the Scholastic Census for the City and return the same at the next regular meeting. The Mayors action in having the Stove in the Council room put in order was approved No 33 The following Ordinance was then adopted. An Ordinance relating to the handling and using Fire works Be it ordained by the City Council of the City of Corpus Christi in the Corporate That it shall be unlawful for any person or persons to use limits fire works of any description whatsoever within the Corporate limits of this City including fire crackers, roman candles, rockets, torpedoes, or any other fire works, by whatsoever name known, and for every violation of this ordinance the offender or offenders shall be deemed guilty of a misdeme- anor and fined in a sum not less than five nor more than Twenty five Dollars; and that all Ordinances and parts of ordinances in conflict with the above be and the same is hereby repealed, and that this ordinance take effect from and after its passage and publication as the law directs. Approved John M Moore It was moved seconded and carried that the Mayor and Marshal be invested with power to contract for work 396 to be done on the Jail rented from Mr Collins, the same to be paid for by the Mayor out of any fines he may have in his possession. The committee heretofore appointed for said purpose was discharged. On motion the Council then adjourned Attest R. J. Denny John M Moore Secry Mayor Regular Meeting of the City Council Decr 11th 1877 Present: Jno M. Moore, Mayor; Aldermen – Benson, McManigle, Yung, Henry, Berry, Mont- gomery, Turner, Mussett and McLaughlin. City Marshal Jas Downing. The Reading of the Minutes was dispensed with and a motion to adjourn was lost. A Motion was made and carried that all business, except that relating to the Fire department, be deferred until tomorrow evening. Alderman Henry, the fire Commissioner on the part of the City, presented the report of the Arbitrators in the case of tearing down the house of H Keller at the late fire, recommending that no damages be allowed. The report was on motion received and adopted, and the Commis- sioner discharged from further duty in the premises. The Special Committee as to the efficiency of the present Fire Engineer, and the condition of the Steam Fire Engine, presen- ted their report, recommending that 500 feet of Hose be ordered at once, if the order has not already been made; and further, that a new suction hose be ordered, the present one being unfit for use. The report was received and adopted, and the Chief Engineer of the Fire Department was requested to order the suction hose immediately, and the Secretary was instructed to draw a warrant for the cost thereof On motion the Council adjourned until Wednesday evening 12th Inst. at 7½ O clock Attest R. J. Denny John M Moore Sec Mayor 397 Adjourned Regular Meeting of the City Council Wednesday evening December 12th 1877 Present: Jno M. Moore, Mayor; Aldermen – Benson, McManigle, Yung; Berry, Montgomery and Turner. City Marshal Jas Downing Absent: Aldermen – Henry, Mussett & McLaughlin The Minutes of the last regular meeting were read and adopted. The Mayors report for the month of November, showing fines amounting to $180.00 assessed in the City Court, was received and referred to the Finance Committee. The Assessor and Collectors report showing $782.44/100 collected during the month of November was received and referred to the Finance Committee. The Marshals report of pistols sold during the month of November, amounting to $1670/100 was received and adopted. The Finance Committee reported back the reports of the Assessor and Collector, and also the Quarterly report of the Treas- urer as being found correct. The report was received and adopted. The Special Committee appointed to examine into the claim of the Police force, amounting to $14590/100 reported the same correct, and recommended its payment. The report was received and adopted, and warrants ordered to issue for the payment thereof. The Special committee on the examination of the City tax Rolls of the Assessor and Collector, through the chairman, asked for further time, which was granted. The Scholastic Census reports not being ready from all the Wards, was deferred until the next meeting. The following bills were ordered paid: Stanley Welch for legal Services $35.00; Doddridge & Davis for money advanced to buy lumber for repairs of Streets, $100.00; M. Hinijosa for extra police duty $16.00; D. Hirsch for money paid out for Hook & Ladder Company $875/100 The bill of Jas Downing for $11223/100 costs in Market Cases, tried before him whilst acting Mayor, was referred to a Special Committee of Aldermen Turner and Berry. The Mayor was authorized to sign two informal warrants, one to R. Dougherty for $6.50/100 and the other to Chas Weidenmueller for $5.00 The Marshal was on motion instructed to have the well at the Corner of Mesquite and Will Streets filled up as soon as practicable. The Street Committee were on motion authorized to arrange with Mr Burns for further work to be done on the Streets. Resolved, That whereas the action of the Council 398 in allowing the Chairman of the Committee on the Examination of the tax Rolls further time to report was premature, the Same is hereby reconsidered and the Committee discharged. A new committee on motion of two viz, Aldermen Turner and Young were then on motion appointed by the Mayor and requested to report immediately. The Committee presented their report stating that the Rolls had been examined and found correct. The report was received and adopted, and a copy of the Rolls ordered filed with the Secretary. Alderman Turner was then on motion appointed a committee of one to recommend the amount of Salaries and fees to be allowed to the City Officers to be elected and appoin- ted at the next annual election in April next On motion the Council then adjourned this regular meeting until Friday evening December 21st at 7½ O.clock. Attest John M Moore R. J. Denny Mayor Sec Called Meeting of the City Council Decr 15th 1877 Present: John M. Moore, Mayor; Aldermen – Benson, Henry, Berry, Montgomery, Turner Mussett and McLaughlin City Marshal Jas Downing Absent – Aldermen McManigle & Yung. The Mayor stated that the meeting had been called to take action in the case of Policeman A. H. Allen The Marshal by request then stated to the Council that Policeman A. H. Allen had been arrested the night previous on the charge of Perjury and that in consequence of said arrest he had dismissed him from the force, and put Mr Chas Wicks on the force in his stead, subject to the action of the Council. Previous to any action being taken by the Council in the case of Mr Allen, he presented his resignation as a Policeman of the City. On motion the resignation of Mr Allen was accepted. A motion was then made to confirm the appoint- ment of Mr Wicks, this motion was not seconded When the Council on motion adjourned Attest R. J. Denny John M Moore Secretary Mayor 399 Adjourned Regular Meeting of the City Council Decr 21st 1877 Present: John M. Moore, Mayor; Aldermen Benson, McManigle, Young, Henry, Montgomery, Turner, Mussett and McLaughlin. City Marshal Downing Absent: Alderman Berry Alderman Turner the Committee of one appointed to recommend the salaries to be paid to the City Officers to be elected and appointed at the next general election presented his report, which was on motion received. And the Salaries of the Several officers were adopted as follows. The Mayor to receive fees of office in all cases where there are convictions, but not otherwise. The Treasurer to receive 2½ per cent for receiving and 2½ per cent for disbursing all City funds. The Secretary to receive $300.00 per annum. The Surveyor to receive $5.00 per day for every day that he is actively employed. The City Attorney in all civil suits such fees as may be allowed by the Council, to be arranged by a committee. And in Criminal cases Five Dollars for every conviction before the City Court, but nothing in acquittals. The Assessor and Collector to receive 2½ per cent for assessing and five per cent for collecting all moneys coming to the City. The City Marshal to receive Nine hundred Dollars per annum and the fees in all cases where convictions are had said fees to be taxed up in the bill of costs and collected from the defendants. City Policemen to receive Sixty Dollars per month and the fees where convictions are had to be taxed in the bill of costs and collected from the defendants. Presiding Officers Judges and Clerks at City Elections Two Dollars per day. The Fire Engineer Nine Hundred Dollars per annum. The committee appointed to examine into the bill of James Downing for $112.23/100 for costs in Market Cases tried before him whilst acting Mayor reported progress, on motion the bill was recommended to the Committee for further consideration. The Monthly report of the Mayor and that of the Assessor and collector were reported back correct by the Finance Committee, on motion the report was received and adopted Four petitions were then presented, One from Alonzo Allen, one from J. G. McMahon one from S. H. Tinney and one from Chas Wicks for the position on the Police now vacant on account of the resignation of A. H. Allen on motion the petitions were received and referred to a 400 committee of three consisting of Alderman Benson Young and McLaughlin with a request to report immediately, a recess of ten minutes was taken to allow the Committee to consult After recess the Council was again called to order when the above named committee presented their report recommending Mr S. H. Tinney for the position, on motion the report was received and adopted, and Mr Tinney was declared duly elected on the Police force of the City. Aldermen Benson, Mussett and Henry were then on motion appointed by the Mayor a committee to try and procure a suitable place for keeping the Truck of the Hook & Ladder Co. The following bills were on motion ordered paid Jas Burns $6000 for improvements on the Streets and $40.00 for filling up the fire well at the Corner of Mezquite and William Streets. Wm Adams $1050/100 for work on the Fire Engine. Julius Henry $4511/100 for money advanced to buy a clock for the Council Room, and for the purchase of hand cuffs for the use of the City, this latter bill to be paid out of fines collected in the City Court by the Mayor after paying for improvements on the Jail. Jas Downing $1.75/100 for having dead animals removed from the Streets. A Warrant of $24.00 was ordered to issue to L. Caldwell in lieu of an old informal Warrant which was surrendered to the City. No 34 The following Ordinance was then adopted. Ordinance relating to pay and fees of Be it ordained by the City Council of the City of Corpus City Attorney Christi. Sec. 1. That the City Attorney of said City shall be entitled to the fees of office and no more. Sec. 2. That for each and every conviction had in the Mayor or Recorders Court, the City Attorney shall be entitled to the sum of Five Dollars, the same to be taxed against the defendant in the bill of Costs. This Ordinance to take effect from and after its passage Approved John M Moore An Ordinance relating to the Storage of Gunpowder Oil &c was on motion referred back to the Ordinance Committee for revision and amendment. The Marshal was on motion instructed to buy a new bell rope and present his bill for payment at the next meeting of the Council The Mayor was requested to reply to a letter from the Silsby Manufacturing received by last mail. The Fire Engineer stated to the Council that the Fire Engine needed a thorough overhauling which could only be given at a machine shop, On motion the Chief Engineer of the Fire department was requested to correspond with the 401 Chief Engineer of Galveston and ascertain from him if an engine could be had to take the place of this one whilst undergoing necessary repairs. Alderman McManigle asked that his bill on which payment had been refused be reconsidered, but no action was taken thereon. It was then moved and seconded that a committee of three be appointed some time since to look into the report of Geo Dye Auctioneer relating to the sale of some confiscated pistols be discharged, and a new committee of one be appointed in its stead, this motion carried, whereupon the Mayor appointed Alderman McManigle to look into the matter. On motion the Council then adjourned until the first regular meeting in January 1878. Attest R. J. Denny John M Moore Sec Mayor. Regular Meeting of the City Council January 8th 1878 Present: Jno. M. Moore, Mayor; Aldermen – Young, Henry, Berry, Turner and McLaughlin City Marshal Jas. Downing. Absent: Alderman Benson, McManigle, Montgomery & Mussett The Minutes of the last regular and subsequent called meetings were read and adopted. The Mayors Report for the month of December showing $149.00 collected in the City Court was presented and examined by the Finance Committee and reported correct, on motion the report was received and adopted. and the Secretary was instructed to issue a warrant for the amount expended by him on Jail wood &c of $129.50/100 . The report of the Assessor and Collector of moneys collected during the month of Decr 31st of $352.66/100 Hack & Dray licenses for the quarter ending Decr 31st of $7425/100 and the Occupation tax for the quarter ending Decr 31st of $46667/100 was received and referred to the Finance Committee. The Marshals report of pistols sold during the month of Novr and Decr of $2900 was received and referred to the Finance Committee. The Mayor stated that he had obtained a loan from the Citizens to pay for a fire well and asked that Warrants be drawn to repay those advancing the money, on motion the Secretary was instructed to issue Warrants to the extent of $15000 for the above named purpose. The Chief Engineer of the fire Department presented his report of Officers 402 elected for the Department for the ensueing year, also those elected for the fire relief association and asked that they be duly commissioned; as follows, for the Fire Department D. Hirsch, Chief Engineer; R. H. Berry, Assistant; Fred Lege, Secretary;. And for the Firemans Relief Association S. T. Foster, President; Felix Noessel, Vice President; Geo. French, Treasurer; and L. D. Berry, Secretary on motion the report was adopted and the Mayor was authorized to issue the commissions to the various officers as named in the report. The following bills were then on motion ordered paid, Jas Kelly $10.00 for services in repairing steam Fire Engine; Jas Burns $9000 for Street repairs. Ed Beard $3.50 for board of City Prisoners Geo F. Evans $2.50 for Bell rope. Mrs Ann Allen $12.50/100 and William Corkill $6.50/100 both for the board of City Prisoners, Chas Wicks one bill of $16.00 and one of $20.00 for Police duty, Alonzo Allen $4.00 for Police duty. Atkinson & Bro $7.40/100 for repairs on the City Council Room, Joseph Kavanaugh $10.00 for ringing the Bell for the Month of Decr. An Ordinance in relation to the ringing of the Bell was offered and on motion laid over to the next regular meeting. Alderman Turner asked that some repairs should be made on the Streets in the Fourth ward, On motion the Street Committee were instructed to ascertain what was required and to have the work done. Alderman Henry asked to be relieved from the Finance Committee, he was prevailed upon to with- draw his request until the next regular meeting. It was then moved that Alonzo Allen be appointed Jailor for the City of Corpus Christi and for such services he shall receive $100 for Commitments and $1.00 for releasing all prisoners to and from said Jail, the same to be collected from the defendant as other costs. Wherein no such fees can be collected from defendants, he shall receive nothing for his services, this motion was seconded and carried. On Motion the Council then adjourned Attest R. J. Denny John M Moore Sec Mayor 403 Regular Meeting of the City Council Jan 22d 1878 Present: Jno. M. Moore, Mayor; Aldermen – McManigle, Young, Henry, Montgomery & McLaughlin City Marshal Jas. Downing. Absent: Aldermen – Benson, Berry, Turner and Mussett. The Council adjourned without transacting any business, until Wednesday evening January 23d Wednesday evening January 23d Council Met pursuant to adjournment. Present: J. M. Moore, Mayor Aldermen – McManigle, Young, Henry, Montgomery & McLaughlin City Marshal Jas. Downing. Absent: Aldermen – Benson, Berry, Turner and Mussett. The Mayor decided that a Quorum was present, Alderman McManigle withdrew which destroyed the quorum, and the Council again adjourned until Friday evening January 25th Friday evening January 25th Council met pursu- ant to adjournment. Present: Jno. M. Moore, Mayor Aldermen – Benson, McManigle, Young Henry Montgomery, Turner and McLaughlin; City Marshal Jas Downing. Absent: Aldermen – Berry and Mussett. The Minutes of the last regular meeting were read and adopted. The Committee to whom the claim of Jas Downing had been recommitted presented their report stating that the City was not liable for said costs. The report was received and adopted. The report of Messers Morris and Cummings through their agents Doddridge & Davis on the Ship Channel earnings for the Quarter ending December 31st 1877 showing balance due the City in Bonds of $114257/100 was received and referred to the Finance Committee. Alderman Benson one of the Committee appointed to procure a house for the Truck of the Hook and Ladder Company made a verbal report of progress and asked further time which was granted. Alderman Young of the Street Committee reported that owing to their inability to procure the Lumber for the necessary improvements of the streets in the Fourth Ward the work had not been commenced, and asked that the Council take some steps to obtain the mate- rial. The Mayor was on motion instructed to confer with the Street Committee and make the necessary arrangements for the prosecution of the work. Alderman McManigle the Committee on the sale 404 of confiscated pistols, asked for further time which was granted. The bill of Mrs Ann Allen amounting to $20.50/100 for board of City Prisoners was ordered paid. Aldermen Henry Turner and Benson were appointed a committee to examine into the correctness of two due bills of John R Peterson, former City Treasurer, and report at the next regular meeting. The opening of the Public Free Schools was referred to, and the School Committee were requested to recommend the best course to be adopted and report the same at the next regular meeting. The County Commissioners applied through Alderman Young of the Street Committee for permission from the City to raise the grade of the Side Walk in front of the New Court House, On motion the request was granted. The Mayor presented to the Council a citation to be and appear before Justice Cahills Court in a suit of Jas. Downing vs the City for costs in certain Market Cases tried before him, the said Downing whilst acting Mayor on motion the Mayor was authorized to employ Counsel to defend the interests of the City. Correction Alderman Henry repealed his request to be relieved as chairman as Chairman per the from the Finance Committee, but no action was taken Act of Feb 26th 1878 thereon On Motion the Council then adjourned Attest R. J. Denny John M Moore Secretary Called Meeting of the City Council February 1st 1878 Present: Jno. M. Moore, Mayor; Aldermen – Benson, McManigle, Young, Henry, Turner Montgomery, Mussett and McLaughlin. City Marshal Jas Downing. Absent: – Alderman Berry The Mayor stated the object of the call to be to get the report of the School Committee in relation to the opening of the public Schools to elect a Principal, teachers &c. Also to take some action in the case of Policeman Riggs who had been suspended, and the Marshals Salary was also to be considered during the evening. A motion was made to take up the case of Policeman 405 Riggs first, but was lost. The business was then taken up in regular order and the report of the Scholl Committee was read, a motion was made to table the report but recd no second A motion was then made seconded and carried to adopt that portion relating to the Financial affairs of the School, and that the names submitted by the Committee for Principal and Teachers of the Public Schools be taken up seperately. The petitions were all read and the names of Rev E. A. Wagner and Dr D. McNeal Turner and Revd C. M. Rogers were offered. Several Ballots were had none of which resulted in any choice of Principal for the Public Schools. The Committee on Education asked to be discharged but before any action was had a motion was made to adjourn; this was seconded and carried The Council accordingly adjourned. Attest R. J. Denny John M Moore Secretary Mayor Called Meeting of the City Council February 2d 1878 Present: Jno. M. Moore, Mayor; Aldermen – Benson, McManigle, Young, Henry, Turner, Montgomery, Mussett, & McLaughlin. City Marshal Jas Downing. Absent: Alderman – Berry & Secretary Denny Alderman Young was elected Seretary Pro Tem The Mayor stated that the meeting was called to perfect the organization of the Public Schools and to take action in the case of Policeman Riggs. On motion the School matters were first taken up and Revd E. A. Wagner was nominated for Principal on the ballot being taken Mr Wagner received (5) five votes, there being (3) three against him. Mr Wagner was accordingly elected principal. Mrs H. M. Conklin was nominated for first assistant and was unanimously elected Mrs F. J. Weymouth was then nominated for second assistant and unanimously elected. Mr S. M. Coles being the only applicant for the position of teacher in the public Free Colored School 406 was elected unanimously. It was then moved seconded and carried that the Public Schools be opened to the Public on Monday next February 4th 1878 and continue Five Months. The Principal of the Free School for white Children to receive a Salary of $75.00 per month. The first assistant Teacher a Salary of $60.00 per Month. The Second assistant Teacher a Salary of $50.00 per month. Correction $4288½/100 And the Teacher of the Public Free Colored inserted in place of school a salary of $42.88½/100 per month $48.88½/100 which was an The Mayor was on motion authorized to sign warrants error as will appear not exceeding $20.00 for repairs on the Public School by Committees report. buildings to be drawn from the School fund. Act of Feb 26th 1878 On motion a special Committee of three consisting of Aldermen McManigle McLaughlin and Mussett were appointed to ascertain the rates at which the Public School Property could be insured. The case of Policeman Riggs was then taken up and the action of the Marshal in suspending him was sustained, a petition signed by a number of Citizens asking that he be reinstated was read and on motion Policeman Riggs was ordered reinstated after five days suspension beginning at the date on which the Marshal suspended him. On Motion the Council then adjourned Attest John M Moore Mayor Secretary Pro Tem Regular Meeting of the City Council February 12th 1878 Present: John M. Moore, Mayor; Aldermen – Benson, McManigle, Young, Berry Montgomery, Mussett and McLaughlin. City Marshal James Downing. Absent: Aldermen – Henry and Turner. The reading of the minutes was on motion dispensed with and the Reports of officers at once proceeded with. 407 The report of James Downing City Marshal, of pistols sold during the month of January, amounting to $9.47/100 was on motion received and adopted. The report of the Assessor and Collector of Occupation tax collected and paid in to the Treasurer, of $507.50/100 , and Hack and Dray licenses of $64.00 was received and referred to the Finance Committee. The report of the Assessor and Collector of $14.00 Poll tax; $369.94/100 Ad Valorem tax, $369.94/100 City Debt Bond tax, and $369.94/100 Fire Engine tax, collected in the Month of January, was received and referred to the Finance Committee. The report of the Mayor of fines collected in the City Court amounting to $97.07/100 was received and on motion referred to the Finance Committee. The report of Alderman McManigle on the sale of Pistols by Geo. Dye, Auctioneer, and P. Benson whilst acting Mayor, setting forth that said sale was illegal, was on motion received and ordered filed with the Secretary. The report of Alderman Turner on the Claim of the Fire Department amounting to $350.40/100 setting forth that said claim was just and correct, excepting an over charge of articles used by the members for their own use amounting to $41.43/100 , and recommending that it be laid over for action to some future time until the financial condition of the City could be definitely ascertained. The report was on motion received, and laid over for future action as recommended in the report. The Committee appointed to make arrangements for the insurance of the School Buildings asked further time, which was granted. The Street Committee asked further time to report upon the improvements in the Fourth Ward, which was granted. The Committee appointed to procure a house for the Truck of the Hook and Ladder Company asked further time which was granted. A Communication from D. Hirsch, Chief Engineer of the Fire department, setting forth the necessity of having a place for the Truck, also the repairing of the Fire Wharves, was on motion received, and action thereon was for the time being deferred. The following bills were ordered paid: Free Press for Printing $13.07/100 ; Joseph Kavanaugh for ringing bill for month of January $10.00; Mrs Ann Allen for board of Prisoners $24.00. An old account of J. B. Murphy for $30.87½/100 was on motion rejected. 408 A resolution in regard to the increase in the pay of the Marshal and Police force of the City, stating that said increase had been premature and in conflict and violation of the City Charter, was presented, received and on motion laid on the table. A resolution recommending that a committee of Three be appointed to make the necessary arrangements to build a house for the Hand Engine and for the Truck of the Hook & Ladder Company was then offered and on motion adopted, whereupon Aldermen McManigle Young and Benson were appointed the committee. A motion was made and carried to set aside $100.00 for the repairs of the Hand Engine, it subsequently being made known to the Council that the Hand Engine was not the property of the City but of the Fire Company, the above motion setting aside $100.00 was reconsidered. It was then, Resolved, That the Chief Engineer of the Fire Department be authorized to purchase three hundred feet of Canvass leading Hose and Twenty feet of Suction Hose for the hand Engine – the same to be paid for out of any money in the Treasury not otherwise appropriated. Two Ordinances, One relating to the Storage of Oil and Gun Powder, and the other to the carrying of Arms and deadly wepons were then adopted which will be found at the foot of these proceedings. A petition from Citizens asking that the fine and costs in the case of Leandro Coronado be remitted, was then presented, and on motion laid on the table. The Mayor was authorized to employ Counsel to defend the interests of the City in the Case of James Downing vs the City for Costs in Market Cases. Correction - Alderman Henry was at his own request relieved as chairman from As Chairman inserted the Finance Committee, and Aldermen McManigle by order of Council and Turner were added thereto to fill vacancies. Feb 26th 1878 The Secretary was on motion authorized to buy a Record Book for the City, and the Mayor was also authorized to sign a Warrant for the cost of the same The Council then on motion adjourned Attest R. J. Denny John M Moore Secretary Mayor 409 No 35 Ordinance relating Be it ordained by the City Council of the City of Corpus to Storage of Oil and Christi. Gun Powder That it shall be unlawful for any person or firm, or for his or . Sec. 1. their agent or agents to keep or cause to be kept within the incor- porate limits, in any other warehouse or other building by whatever name known or in any yard or in any other place, than at the point designated in this ordinance; in any quantity exceeding one Barrel, or Ten Cases of ten Gallons each, of any Camphine dangerous or inflammiable or burning fluid, or any other oil produced by distillation or otherwise of any inflammable nature no matter by what name known. And every person or firm who shall be guilty of a violation of the foregoing shall be deemed guilty of a misdemeanor and shall be punished by a fine of not less than Twenty Five nor more than One Hundred Dollars, or to imprisonment in the City Jail for a term not exceeding fifteen days, or both at the discretion of the Jury. Sec. 2. Be it further ordained that it shall be unlawful for any per- son or firm to keep in his or their stores warehouses or other places, other than the place designated, at any one time a larger quantity than Twenty five pounds of Gunpowder. Provided that said Gunpowder shall be kept in Canisters or kegs. And any person or firm offending against this section shall be deemed guilty of a misdemeanor, and for each and every pound of pow- der found in or upon his or their premises over and above the amount allowed by this ordinance, he she or they shall be fined in a sum of not less than Five nor more than Twenty Five Dollars. Sec. 3. Be it further ordained, That every person or firm who shall be guilty of a violation of the two preceeding sections as herein set forth and shall continue in such contravention for a period of Four and Twenty Hours shall be deemed guilty of a further violation of this article and shall be subject to the payment of a fine and punishment as herein before set forth for each Twenty Four Hours the said Sections are violated or contravened. Sec. 4. That all ordinances or parts of ordinances in con- flict with the above be and are hereby repealed. Sec. 5. That this ordinance take effect from and after Ten days publication. Sec, 6. That the building heretofore known as Headens Warehouse to the North of said City shall be the receptacle of Oils Gunpowder &c Approved John M Moore 410 No 36. Ordinance in Be it resolved by the City Council of the City of relation to the Corpus Christi; bearing of Arms That Whereas on the 19th day of May A. D. 1875 the City Council passed an Ordinance prohib- iting the carrying of arms in said City and assessing as a penalty for the violation of said Ordinance the sum of not less than Five nor more the Fifty Dollars and a forfeiture of said Weapons. And Whereas as said Ordinance is insufficient, Therefore, Sec. 1. Be it Ordained by the City Council of the City of Corpus Christi that said Ordinance shall be so amended as to read a fine of not less than Twenty Five nor more than One Hundred Dollars and a forfeiture of the Weapons Sec. 2. This Ordinance to take effect in ten days from and after its passage. Approved John M Moore 411 Index Old Contracts before repeal of charter relating to Bonds Fire Engine pages 38, 40, 71 Bonds City Debt “ 38, 156, 157, 158, 159, 160, “ “ “ “ 172, 173, Bonds Ship Channel Missing page 119 Market Hall property released from 5% tax page 17 Hook & Ladder Co. relating to “ 64 Wharf and water privileges relating to, with Contract and Lease “ 59 Water and water privileges Ordinance relating to the leasing of “ 47 Rail Road Depot relating to “ 177 Ship Channel relating to Contract with Messers Morris & Cummings “ 12, 13, 29 Silsby Manufacturing Company contract with 41, 42, 43 Ship Channel relating to page 103, 104, 105, 173, 174 “ “ “ “ “ 343 - 361 - 387 412 A Index Arms carrying of Ord page 193 “ discharging Ord “ 194 Animals cruelty to “ “ 254 Arms & deadly weapons forfeiture of 266 Amendment of Ordinance on drunkenness 202 Assessor to make rebate on livery stable tax 227 Amendment of Ord. to pay and absorb floating debt 230 Adoption of present Charter 264 Appraisers Board of elected 266 page Assetts & Liabilities Report of Committee 279 Animals dead to be removed 304 Anonymous letter relating to 308 Appropriation for Public School relating to 279, 284, 340, Assessor and Collector allowed additional pay 274 Amendment of Ordinance relating to Fire Engineer & Assistant 359 Auditor appointment of relating to 366 Ad Valorem tax set aside 379, 385 Ansell Dr Relating to (Quarantine matters) 378 & 379 Arms Marshal to sell Confiscated by 48 hours notice 388 Appropriation for Fire Department 393 Alderman Gussetts seat declared vacant 395 Allen Policeman relating to 398 B Bond of Marshall relating to 188, 257 Bond of Treasurer 188 Bond Ordinance relating to, to pay City debt 205 Bell ringer relating to 227 Bonds time extended for issueing 234 Bonds issuance of to authorize by Mayor 249 Bonds Cancelled of Ship Channel 258 Bills of Costs in Market Hall suits 277 Ball playing in the Streets relating to 285 Bonds and Warrants destroyed 286 Bonds and Warrants Report of Committee 292 Bonds Ship Channel relating to 315 Bills due by the City to be paid by Warrants 325 Bond No 3 payment of referred to the mayor 326 Boundaries of Wards ordered published 330 Bond amount required for City officers 336 Bonds Ship Channel Co 340 Board of Appraisers elected 266 413 page Broadway R. R. petition relating to 299 Bridge at Leopard St relating to 347 Barnes Mrs Belle lease annulled 286 Bond Fire Engine No 3 ordered paid 355 Board of Equalization to be appointed 360 Board of City Prisoners to be paid out of special fund 367 Bill of Alderman McManigle relating to 401 C Charter adoption of the Present 264 Committees Standing 188, 264 Central Wharf Police regulation Ordinance 268 City election relating to pay of officers holding Ord. 273 Contract with Wharf Co Recorded 228 Cruelty to Animals ordinance relating to 254 Commission to issue to fire Engineer 262 Charter order of publication 267 Charter ordered to be printed 267 City divided into Wards 272 Committee on Finance report of 277 Current Expenses tax resolution relating to 277 Costs in Market Cases 277 Costs in City Court property may be taken to satisfy 278 Committee on Education 279, 348 City printing proposals for 280 Central Wharf & Ware House Co Settlement 281 Centennial celebration relating to 282, 283, Costs in Market Cases ordered paid to McG & A 283, 295 Copy book blotting sheets &c Secretary ordered to buy 303 Contracts to be signed by Mayor and Secretary 310 Communication from late Recorder 314 Contract with R. R. Co adopted and relating to 315, 316, 323 County Jail Prisoners to be confined in 322 Contract with Wharf Company recording 228 414 C page Collection of Back taxes relating to 292, 297 Contract with R. R. Co – right of way 351, 352 Census relating to taking of City & Scholastic 372 Cahill building relating to 378, 380, 383 Clerks Judges and officers at elections 391 Clock, Mayor to buy 391 Committee on Jail matters 393 Census Scholastic Aldermen to take 395 Committee on Salaries 398 Confiscated Pistols relating to and Committee 401 Committee’s report of claim of Jas Downing 403 Citation in Suit of Jas Downing vs the City 404, 408, 404 D Drunkenness relating to Ordinance 193 Disorderly practices Ord. 198 Drunkenness Amendment of the Ord 202 Debt Bonds issuance of 205 Destruction of Warrants and Bonds 286 Dogs license of & relating to 291, 359 Deed to School lot signed sealed &c 326 Doswell J. Temple relating to donation of property 337, 338 Dead Animals to be removed 304 Drays licensing of relating to 346 Delinquent tax relating to 348 Driving furiously in Streets Ord. 254 Draymen to give Bond Ordinance 358 Draymen to receive for removing dead animals 391 E 415 page Engine house building of Resolution 192 Engineer & Surveyor to appoint Ord. 220 Engineer & Surveyor to establish grades 242 Election motion to authorize the order of 259 Election motion to open the 1st Tuesday in April 260 Election pay of judges and clerks 273 Education committee on 279 Engine hose for 315 Election order relating to 326, 327, 344 Election Ordinance relating to 328 Elected officers in April 1877 331 Election judges and clerks paid 333 Election of president “pro tem., 336 Election relating to control of School referred to Committee 337 Election repealing Ordinance allowing pay 345 Election to fill vacancies 348, 349, 369, Equalization Board of to be appointed 360 Education Committee on 348 Election relating to and result of 371, 385, 386 Engineer of Pioneer Fire Co appointment confirmed 373 Election officers to be paid 376 Engineer Fire department resignation of & relating to 379, 380, 382 Election Mayor to call for tax purposes amended 382, 385, 388 F Fandangoes Ordinance relating to 194 Fire department duties of Ordinance 214 Fire department Mayor to commission officers of 215, 270 Fires and Stove pipes Ord relating to 249 Fire Works Ordinance relating to 252, 279 Fire Engineer department defining duties of 214 Finance Ordinance relating to duty of officers 220 Fees of City Secretary Ordinance fixing 273 Finance Committees report 277 Free Schools relating to 279 Fire Engine hose for 315 Fire Engineer Commission to issue to 262 Floating debt amendment of Ord 230 Free Schools relating to 249, 295, 298 416 F page Fines in City Court Ord. 296 Fire department Ordinance for government of & amended 319, 359 Furious riding and driving in the City 254 Fire Engine Bond ordered paid 355 French Geo. Lot to be deeded back 369 Fire Engineer resignation of and relating to 379 & 380, 382 Fire department relating to 383 Fire well relating to 387 Fire Department appropriation for 393 Fire Commissioners report received and adopted 396 Fire Department reports and relating to – Hose &c 396, 408 Finance Committee relating to release from 402, 404, 408 Finance Committee vacancies filled 408 G Grades of City to establish 242 Grading Streets in the City 275, 278 Gussett Alderman retires 381 Grading Sidewalks and relating to protest 323, 324 H Hook & Ladder Company relating to Warrants 233, 303, 309, 310 Hogs relating to Ordinance 245 Health officer Salary 217, 276 Health officer removed 233 Hogs resolution relating to reward for &c 246 Health physician Election of 266 Hose for Pioneer fire Company 315 316 Hose bill for purchase money 331 Hay Scales relating to 334 Hook & Ladder Co. relating to and House for the same 343, 408 Health Ordinance 357 Hand Cuffs Marshal to buy 392 Hose purchase of for Hand Engine 408 I 417 page Issuance of Bonds to pay floating debt 205 Induction of elected officers in April 1877 335 Issuance of Bonds 249 Improvement of sidewalks 275, 278 Increase in the pay of officers relating to 408 J Judges and clerks allowed pay for two elections 333 Jail relating to, and Jailor appointed {365, 366, 368, 393 {395, 396, 402, Jailor appointment of and his pay 382 Judges Clerks & Presiding officers of Elections 391 K Keller petition of H. & Relating to same 384, 386 L Lessees of Market released from 5% 17, 192, 193 Liabilities and assetts of the City report of Com 279 Letter anonymous relating to 308 Liquor selling to Minors Ordinance 309 Livery Stable tax assessors to rebate tax on 227 License on Dogs 291 Leopard Street bridge relating to. 347 Laws relating to misdeameanors 187 Lease to Mrs Belle Barnes annulled 286 Liquor dealers ordinance relating to taxing 362 Lichtenstein Lot to be reconveyed to sold for taxes 363 License on drays, Carts, and vehicles made special fund 365 418 M page Mayors Salary 190 Minors relating to offences of Ord 194 Meats game & vegetables Ord. 252 Market Stalls renting of Ord 273, 312 Market owners relived from 5% 17, 192, 193 Marshals duty relating to Ord. 197, 296 Mayor to commission Fire department 215, 270 Market Cases costs of 277 Marshal may take property for costs in City Court 278 Mayor to Employ Counsel to collect back taxes 292 Market Cases Costs of ordered paid 295 Mayor and Secretary to sign contracts for the City 310 Mounted Police force to be 259, 260 Market property relating to 253, 345, 383 Marshals Bond relating to 257 Marshals conduct investigation of 367 McManigle Mrs lot to be deeded back 372 Marshal City Resignation of and vacancy supplied 380 McCampbell W. S. about property destroyed 386 Market Cases Costs in relating to 403, 404 N Nuisances relating to Ord 194 Nuisances resolution relating to 329 O Ordinance about taxation 207, 212 Ordinance to issue Bonds to pay floating debt 205 Ordinance in regard to the Fire department 214 Organization order of 186 Officers City defining duties relating to Finance 220 Officers of Fire department to be commissioned 215 Ordinance to appoint Engineer & Surveyor 220 Ordinance amendment of to pay floating debt 230 Ordinance on Sidewalks 236, 237 Ordinance on hogs running at large 245 Ordinance on Fires and Stove pipes 249 Ordinance relating to fire works 252 I 419 page No of Ordinances Ordinance relating to sale of meats and game &c 252 Ordinance relating to removing Shell from Beach 254 Ordinance relating to Cruelty to animals 254 Officers elected in April 1876 261 No 1. Ordinance relating to forfeiture of arms 266 “ 2. Ordinance establishing the office of Recorder 267 “ 3. Ordinance for Police regulation of Central Wharf 268 Officers Salaries relating to 269 Order rules of to be published 271, 273 “ 4 Ordinance establishing fees for City Secretary 273 “ 5 Ordinance establishing pay for officers holding elections 273 “ 6 Ordinance Relating to renting Market Stalls 273 Ordinance on sidewalks reconsidered 278 “ 7 Ordinance regulating taxation 287, 290 “ 8 Ordinance licensing Dogs & bitches & relating to 291, 359 Obstructions in the Streets ordered removed 296 “ 9 Ordinance relating to fines in City Court 296 “ 10 Ordinance relating to pay of City Officers 302 “ 11 Ordinance for the punishment of refractory prisoners 304 “ 12 Ordinance relating to selling liquors to Minors 309 Ordinances to be copied by the Secretary for Recorder 313 “ 13 Ordinance relating to resisting an officer 312 “ 14 Ordinance on the purchase of 500 feet of hose 316 “ 15 Ordinance for government of fire department 319. 359 “ 16 Ordinance regulating Elections and management of 328 “ 17 Ordinance to mark grades of the Streets 328 Officers Election of in 1877 331 Ordinance establishing office of Recorder repealed 336, 337 Ordinance relating to carrying of Arms 193 Ordinance relating to furious riding and driving 193 Ordinance relating to discharge of fire arms 194 Ordinance relating to drunkenness 193 Ordinance relating to Cruelty to Animals 254 Ordinance relating to Fandangoes 194 Ordinance relating to Nuisances 194 Ordinance relating to duties of Fire department 214 Ordinance relating to Fires and Stove pipes 249 Ordinance relating to duties of Marshal 197 “ 18 Ordinance licensing Wagons Carts drays &c 346, 387 Ordinance relating to misdemeanors reenacted 187 Ordinance relating to Market property reenacted 187 Ordinance relating to offences of minors 194 Ordinance relating to treatment of Prisoners 196 Ordinance relating to sale of vegetables on the Streets 197 Ordinance relating to disorderly practices 198 Ordinance Amendment of on Drunkenness 202 “ 19 Ordinance relating to School property 350 “ 20 Ordinance relating to Quarantine 356, 357 420 page No 21 Ordinance requiring premises to be kept clean 357 “ 22 Ordinance requiring Draymen to give bond 358 “ 23 Ordinance requiring Policeman to Subscribe an oath 358 Ordinance relating to Chief Engineer and Assistant 359 “ 24 Ordinance relating to Taxes levied on Liquor dealers (Repealed) 362, 365, 367 Officers reports of Mayor & others 363 & 364 “ 25 Ordinance relating to hogs running at Large 374 Officers of Election to be paid 376 “ 26 Ordinance for Authority to Chief Engineer of Fire department 384 “ 27 Ordinance relating to Chimneys, flues, & Stove pipes 384 Ordinance licensing hacks drays &c by Secretary repealed 387 “ 28 Ordinance fixing pay of Judges & clerks of Elections 388 “ 29 Ordinance relating to Hogs Sheep & Goats 389 “ 30 Ordinance relating to Police force entering groceries 389 “ 31 Ordinance relating to opening and closing Bar Rooms 391 “ 32 Ordinance relating to giving liquor or Arms to Prisoners 394 “ 33 Ordinance relating to handling & use of Fire Arms 395 “ 34 Ordinance relating to Pay and fees of City Attorney 400 Officers of fire Department relating to 402 “ 35 Ordinance Relating to Storage or Oils Gun Powder &c 409 “ 36. Ordinance relating to Fire Arms 410 P Prisoners treatment of 196 Printing public relating to and pay for same 205, 359 Port Warden 203 Public Schools City Assumes control of 234 Public Schools Relating to 251 Police force to be mounted 259, 260, 278 President pro tem 266, 336 Physician Health Election of 266 Police regulation of the Central Wharf 268 Pay of officers holding Elections for City 273 Printing proposals for 280 Printing Contract awarded to Times 284 Prisoners to be confined in County Jail 322 Purchase of school lot application rejected 337 Prisoner release of from County Jail 340 Purchase of Hose for Fire engine 315 Property donated to City by J. Temple Doswell 337, 338 Public Free Schools relating to 298, 299, 342 Police force relating to and election of 344, 345, 354 Property taken to satisfy costs of Court 278 Prisoners to punish refractory 304 Public School property custodian for 350 Petition to remit back taxes 350 421 page Printer Public to be included in list of City officers 359 Printing City awarded to Free Press 364 Prisoners Board of to be pd out of special fund 367 Police force relating to and pay of 377, 381, 382, 388 Police reorganization of 388 Presiding Officers, Judges, & Clerks at City Elections 391 Peterson due bills of relating to 403 Q Quarantine matters relating to 213, 217, 229, 230 231, 232, 233, 238 240, 242, 275, 300 Quarantine Matters and relating to officer 354 Quarantine Ordinance 356, 357 Quarantine Officer Salary of and relating to 359 378 379 R Resolution reenacting Ord for misdemeanors 187 Resolution relating to the City Market 187 Riding and driving Ord. relating to 193 Recorder establishing office of 267 Resolution relating to Engineer house building 192 Recording Contract with Wharf Co. 228 Resolution to Mount the Police force 259, 260 Registration books to be kept open 260 Recorder elected and referring to 264, 307, 312, 314 Rules of order adopted 271 Resolution on taxation for current expenses 277 Report of Committee on Assetts and Liabilities 279 Resolution to prohibit Ball playing in the Streets 285 Rail Road petition for on Broadway 299 Rail Road Committees report on petition & motion 302 Roads and Highways relating to 305 Renting of Market Stalls 312 Resisting an Officer Ord. relating to 312 Recorders office communication relating to 314 R. R. Comp. Contract with adopted 315, 316 R. R. Co Resolution relating to 326 422 R page Rail Road track across Water Street 338, 340 R. Road Co’s Contract recorded 323 Resignation of officers 341, 365, 366, 368 R. R. track crossing streets Ord. repealed 349 Resolution Relating to School property 350 R. R. Co’s Contract with City for Right of Way 351, 352, 353 Resolution relating to Ship Channel 362 361 Reports of Mayor & Others – officers 363 & 364 Right of Way petition for 368 Resignation of officers 370 Resolution relating to filling vacancies on police force 377 Rent of Jail and pertaining to 398 Report of Committee on Salaries 399 Report of Committee on claim of Jas Downing 403 Record Book Secretary to buy 408 Religious exercises in Public Schools 323 S Salary of Secretary 188 Standing Committees 188, 264 Salary of Mayor 190 Side Walks 336 Shell from Beach 254 Salary of Marshall 190 Salary of Engineer 214 Salary of Health Officer 217, 276 Secretary to procure Warrants for Bonding 228 Schools Public City assumes Control of 284, 235 Sidewalks grading of 275 Stove pipe Ordinance 249 Ship Channel Report 255 Ship Channel Bonds cancelled 258 Salaries of City Officers 269 Salaries of City Officers 338 Sidewalks improvement of & grading 275, 278 Schools public relating to 279 Schools Public motion to reconsider 284 Ship Channel Report, disapproved & a motion 286, 295, 295 Street obstructions ordered removed 296 Secretary & Mayor to Sign Contracts 310 Ship Channel Bonds relating to 315, 317 Ship Channel provisions of Contract 318 School lot relating to the Sale of 318 School Trustees the Secretary to notify of no money 321 School Trustees notified no religious exercises 321 Ship Channel reports disapproved 322 S 423 page Stove purchase of for Council Room 250 Sidewalks Ord to Establish 236, 237 School religious exercises action reconsidered 323 Streets improvement of Communication of Mayor 323 Streets report of Committee on 325 School lot deed to be signed by Mayor & Secretary 326 Street grades Ordinance relating to 328 Standing Committees 336 School lot sale of, refused 337 School Election referred to committee 337 Special fund created to pay City Officers 339 Ship Channel Co’s Bonds 340 School appropriation of $100000 revoked 340 School Committees report about Election 339 Ship Channel Committees report on 341 Ship Channel Companys reports 342, 367 Schools Free relating to, and Supervising Committee 249, 342, 348 Ship Channel relating to 343 Secretary to buy record book Seal &c 344 Secretary to buy one dozen chairs 344 Scavenger dray, relating to 347 Ship Channel relating to 347, 355, 360 Schools and School property relating to & Committee on Education 348, 350 School fund, State 295, 298, 299 School property, custodian appointed for 350 Ship Channel Ordinance in relation to reenacting of 1858 12 “ “ “ reenacting 1858 & 1872 28 & 29 “ “ “ authorizing collection of tolls 103-4 & 5 “ “ “ Shoaling and inpediments 105 Salary of Quarantine officer 359 Ship Channel Committee appointed to measure, with 360, 361 their report and resolution relating to same 360, 361, 362 Street Committee authorised to buy tools 363, 371 Ship Channel relating to collection of tolls 365 Special fund for Street repairs 365 Street improvements 375, 379, 382 Ship Channel relating to 387, 403 School Matters relating to 394 Salaries report of Committee on and relating to 399, 400, 408 Street improvements in 4th Ward 403 Side Walk in front of New Court House 404 Schools relating to opening of 404, 405, 406 Secretary to have Contract with R. R. Co recorded 323 Survey of Ship Channel by L Caldwell (with Map) 394 Sunday Law from 9 A.M to 4 P.M Page 198 424 T page Taxation Ordinance regulating 207, 212, 287 Taxes rebate on Livery Stable keepers 227 Treasurer to collect Wharf Revenues 228 Treasurer vote of thanks to 262 Tax to be levied for expenses 277 Treasurer to settle with Wharf & Ware House Company 281 Taxes fees for collection 283 Times newspaper to do city printing 284 Taxes to force collection, of back 292, 297, 300, Terms long and short of Aldermen 336 Trustees of School Secretary to notify about money 321 Treasurer to credit Mrs Conklins note 344, 345 Tax delinquent collected, and relating to same 348, 354, Treasurer relating to 188 Taxes relating to relinquishment of 349 Taxes petition to have remitted 350 Tools to be purchased by Street Committee 363 Taxes lot sold for to be reconveyed to M Lichtenstein 363 “ “ “ “ “ “ “ Geo French 369 “ “ “ “ “ “ “ Mrs McManigle 372 Tax Rolls relating to & Committees Report on 372, 398 Tax Ad Valorem Set aside to pay bonds 379, 385 Treasurer to attach vouchers to his Quarterly reports 390 V 425 page Vegetables Sale of Ord. 197 W Wharf revenues Treasurer to collect 228, 281 Warrants to Hook & Ladder Co. ordered cancelled 233 Wards districting City into 272 Warrants and Bonds destroyed 286 Warrants and Bonds report of Committee 292 Warrants to Teachers Secretary instructed to issue 299 Wards Boundaries to be published 330 Water Street R. R. track across 338, 340 Wharf Company’s Contract recorded 222 Wharf Police regulation of 268 Warrants to be collected by the Secretary for Bonding 228 Warrants relating to of Hook & Ladder Co 303 Water Supply for the City relating to 370, 372 Warrants to be issued to Judges and clerks of Election 377 Warrants to be inserted in place of Bonds 382 Warrants ordered issued to buy Hose 393 Well Fire Marshal to fill up 397 Warrants ordered issued for Fire Well 401 426 Corpus Christi Texas June 27th 1876 To the Hon City Council of Corpus Christi; Your Committee to whom was referred the consideration of the Financial Budget respectfully reported report the annexed statement for your approval. We recommend that your city Treasurer be appointed ex officio a member of the Finance Committee for the reasons that we feel convinced that his counsel will prove of great advantage, and the requisite data for all financial matters are in his hands. It is certain that in the early part of the financial year there will be a deficiency in the General Fund and a surplus in other special funds. We feel satisfied that the Finance Committee can give such attention to this matter as is requisite and we recommend that they be authorized to do so. We feel it to be highly important that the atten- tion of the Council should be called to the alarming dis- counts your Committee have had to allow in their esti- mates of the Delinquent Tax of 1875 and the probable deficiency in the Tax to be collected this year. Proper legal steps should be taken to obviate these as there is sufficient funds in the 331/3 % loss in the former & the estimated 20% loss in the latter to defray the expenses of such legal course as may be taken. The Financial Budget which we present contem- plates the opening of the Public Free Schools for White and for colored children, Seperately for a term of Ten months from the first Monday in September 1876. We have estimated however that your Council will only have to provide for the Salaries of Teachers up to April 30th 1877. The Succeeding Council will meet the Salaries for the remaining two months. Your Committee recommend that in as much as your body has taken charge of the Public Free Schools of this City that you appoint a Committee on Education, which Committee shall be the Trustees of the School with Authority to employ Teachers and conduct the Schools. Said Committee or any member to be changed at the pleasure of the Council but to have full authority for all School purposes while in said office as Trustees. We recom- ment that the City Treasurer be ex officio a member of this Educational Committee. We also recommend that the sum of One Thousand Dollars from the General Fund be set apart for Educational purposes. This amount with the present reserved fund & the customary State appro- priation we deem sufficient to constitute the Special 427 School Fund for the payment of Teachers as set forth in the Budget herewith presented Respectfully submitted Signed { Geo F Evans { Wm Headen Turn to next page for the Budget of assetts and liabilities. 428 Report of the Special Committee on the Estimated Liabilities Board of Aldermen of the City of Corpus Christi to say from the Dr To Marshal Salary 1000 00 “ Engineers 960 00 “ City Police 1800 00 “ Secretary 300 00 “ Attorneys fees in Market Cases 500 00 “ Bills of Costs 440 90 “ Fire Engine Bonds and Int. due July 1876 336 00 “ City Debt “ “ “ “ “ “ 347 70 “ “ “ “ “ “ “ Sep “ 95 43 “ Fire Engine Jan 1877 1788 00 “ City Debt March “ 984 24 “ Floating Debt 451 26 “ “ Warrant to R Hollub 250 00 “ “ E D Sidbury 170 00 “ Rent of City Prison & Hook & Ladder house 216 00 “ City Printing 250 00 “ Commissions of Treasurer & Assessor & Collector 1000 00 “ Miscellaneous Expenses 500 00 “ Probable deficiency in collecting Delinquent Taxes of 1875 say 331/3 % of 115805 386 02 “ Probable delinquent Tax for 1876 say 20% of 659814/100 1319 63 “ Salary Male Principal of School for white Children from Sep 1st 1876 1000 00 To April 31st 1877 at $12500 per month “ Salary of first Assistant Teacher for same period @$75.00 600 00 “ Salary of Teacher Primary department for same @$5000 400 00 “ Salary of Teacher of Colored children “ “ @$5000 400 00 “ Balance 593 17 $16088 35 429 and the assets to meet the same during the term of the Present Mayor and First Tuesday in April 1876 To the first Tuesday in April 1877. Cr By Delinquent Poll Tax 1875 94 00 “ Fire Engine “ 462 96 “ City Debt “ 601 09 “ “ First Quarter occupation tax 1876 625 00 “ Second “ “ “ “ 700 75 “ Third & Fourth Estimated 1200 00 “ ¼ of 1% Ad Valorem for Current expense 2199 38 “ City Debt Bonds 2199 38 “ Fire Engine Bonds 2199 38 “ Estimated Fines according to prior data 500 00 “ Revenue from C C C Wharf and W H Co 3257 64 “ Note of C C Wharf & Ware House Co due Sep 1st 76 297 02 “ Poll Tax 125 00 “ Reserved School fund as for report of Finance Com. Jan 3d 1876 675 00 “ State appropriation for Public Free Schools estimated under past year 900 00 ______ 16088 35 By Balance brought down $ 593 17 Filed a Copy under seal, of this preamble and resolution Relating to the Ship Channel and its deficiencies at The office of Messers Doddridge & Davis on the [ ] day of July A.D. 1877 R. J. Denny City Secretary Preamble and Resolution referred to above may be found on pages 361 & 362