1885 April Council ProceedingsRegular Session April 9th 1885
Mayor Pro-tem Olinger in the chair
Present Ald Byrne Clancy Crawford Deckert Hollnagel Kane Martin McCarthy and Page
Absent Mayor ODonnell
The minutes of the previous sessions were read and approved after which the following bills allowed
F Heer
joe Huber
Geo W Burden
Andrew Tredway and Sons
H Reed
Christman and Healey
John Harney
A R Staufenbiel
Larry Daley
N H thedinga
Ross McMahon
N Neumann
James S Martin
W G Watters
Theo Merrit
Neumann & Hoedel
Dubuque Brass and Metl Co
P F Gultrue
Phil Pier
Key City Gas Co
Iowa Iron Works
J Foster
Macadam
S B Rice
Key City Gas Company
T W Ruete
Mrs Koenig
A Y McDonald
Westphal Hinds & Co
F Schloz
J W Halpin
Warner Lewis
Phil Pier
Thos E Frith
Dubuque Water Company
F J Zugenbuehler
J H Boyce
James Agnew
John Ganahl
Fred ODonnell
Sol Turck Company
J W Halpin
John Newman
John Pier
Reinfried and Leckie
Specht Gukeisen and Hermann
Geo Ruprecht
T W Ruete
P Clancy
Petitions
the petition of James McGovern for appointment as custodian of public parks was referred to the committee
on public grounds and buildings
The petition of Theo Bangemann et al to repair Pine Street was referred to the commitee on streets
The petition of Geo Fink et al to remove obstructions from Kniest Street was referred to the committee
of the whole
Regular Session April 9th 1885
Mayor Pro-tem Olinger in the chair
Present Ald Byrne Clancy Crawford Deckert Hollnagel Kane Martin McCarthy and Page
Absent Mayor ODonnell
the following petitions in relation to taxes and assessments were referred to the committee on delinquent
tax vis
Charles Stafford Mary deLorimer Mary Schwind Geo Crane angela Strode mary Trausch James Ronan
Mrs Dell Catherine Sand rose Cadman Magdelena P Brauhn C H Meyer Mary Ristasch
the petition of Daniel Sullivan et al in relation to vault cleaning was referred to the committee of two aldermen
of the first ward
The petition of M C Buettle et al in relation to sidewalk on Almond Street was referred to the committee on
streets
Petition of P Klauer for use of city hall was referred to the committee on PG&B and mayor with power
the petition of Dunnebecke Bros et al for removal of market house scales was referred to the committee
on markets the petition of County Treasurer Meyer in relation to the health fund overpaid was referred to the
mayor auditor and city attorney
the petition of Chas Mehl et al in relation to nuisance was referred to the mayor marshal and city attorney
the petition of Southwell Trueb and Co for privelege to use of streets for mining purposes was referred to the
aldermen of the fourth ward and city attorney
the policy of insurance on town clock and tower J P Quigley agent was referred to the committee on public grounds
and buildings
Reports of officers
the street commissioners reported having expended 361.45 on the streets during the report ws received
and filed and warrants ordered drawn for to pay the amount
the marshal reported that the amount necessary to pay the force for the month of March was 1110.00
ordered paid
the auditor reported the regular payroll of city officers and members of the fire department amounting to
1829.70 which was ordered paid
The treasurer reported having paid out during the month for interest 514.30 horses for fire department 450.00
refunded tax 116.26 postage 4.00 sawing wood 3.00 referred to finance com to report
Regular Session April 9th 1885
Mayor Pro-tem Olinger in the chair
Present Ald Byrne Clancy Crawford Deckert Hollnagel Kane Martin McCarthy and Page
Absent Mayor ODonnell
the recorder reported having issued six licenses during the month of March amounting to 23.65 report
received and filed
the woodmeasurer reported having measured 310 cords of wood which had arrived by river and rail report
received and filed
the lamplighter reported having lighted 215 gas lamps during the month the report was placed on file
report of city scales
First WArd 184
Fifth 134
West Dubuque 178
Eagle Point 40
Cent Market 113
Total 649
reports of committees
Ald page Chairman of the committee on claims reported in favor of paying the bill of Morrison Bros the
report was adopted
Ald McCarthy Chairman on Public Grounds and Buildings reported in favor of paying the bill of Walker &
Rhomberg for policy of Ins on the 9th street engine house also the bill of F Heer for plans of changes in city
offices the report was adopted
The same reported in favor of paying several printing bills but after some discussion the bills were referred
to the new council after which the council adjourned until 2 oclock pm
Afternoon session
The council met at 2 pm
Mayor ODonnell in the chair
Present Ald Byrne Clancy Crawford Deckert Hollnagel Kane Martin McCarthy Olinger and Page
Ald McCarthy reported in favor of receiving and filing the petitions of Mrs Geo Farley J & A Christman and
John Deery the report was adopted
Ald Deckert Chairman of the committee on streets reported in favor of receiving and filing the petition of
John Doherty et al
The same reporrted in favor of purchasing macadam from John Heim when the ciyt needs more macadam
adopted
Regular Session April 9th 1885
Mayor ODonnell in the chair
Present Ald Byrne Clancy Crawford Deckert Hollnagel Kane Martin McCarthy Olinger and Page
Ald Deckert reported on the petition of Wm Sprungborn for opening an alley that the prayer of petitioner
be granted
the same reported on the petition of A Hobbs et al that the street commissioner make the necessary repair
adopted
ald Hollnagel chairman on delinquent tax reported in favor of cancelling the tax of 1884 of Mrs C Mahony
Johanna Broderick Mrs John Stephenson and Ellen Loughren lso the personal tax assessed against lots
1 2 and 3 college addition adopted
The same reported adverse to the petitions of Anna Pfiffner Barbara Willett and Fannie Winterer adopted
The same reported in favor of cancelling the personal tax of Francis P Wood for 1884 adopted
The same reported on the petition of George Burden that his pesonal taxes be reduced on monies and
credits to 10,000 for 1884
adopted
the same reported that teh assessment of Fred Baetka on lot 10 Jungks add be reduced to 600.00 for 1884
adopted
The same reported on the petition of J A Rhomberg that the petition be referred to the committee of the
whole adopted
the same reported on the petition of the Dubuque Turn Verin Society that their assessment be cancelled
adopted
the same reported in favor of drawing a warrnat on the treasury for 2.53 to be refunded to Val Keppler
for taxes overpaid Also a warrant in favor of Bridget kane for 2.20 for the same purpose adopted
Ald kane Chairman on Finance reported on the report of the treasurer and moved that warrants be drawn
in favor of the treasurer for the several amounts
Ald Hollnagel offered the following
resolved that the ten thousand dollars pesonality taxed against city lot 175 and assessed to Junkermann and
Haas be cancelled for the year 1884 as the above firm was disolved and out of business and not possessor
of the same during any part of the past fiscal year
the resolution was referred to the committee on delinquent tax of the new council
Regular Session April 9th 1885
Mayor ODonnell in the chair
Present Ald Byrne Clancy Crawford Deckert Hollnagel Kane Martin McCarthy Olinger and Page
On motion the mayor appointed Ald Kane Martin and mcCarthy to cancvass the vote cast at the election for
city officers held April 6th 1885
the following is a canvass of the vote
1st Ward 2nd Ward 3rd Ward 4th Ward 5th Ward Total Maj
Mayor E W Duncan John Glab
Recorder J W Halpin
Treasurer Paul Traut
Auditor Andrew Rieley
Attorney D J Linehan
Assessor J J Pfiffner
Aldermen Democrat Republican
the committee reported that the following officers had been elected to the several offices for a term of one
year and the aldermen for two years
Mayor John Glab
Recorder John W Halpin
Treasurer Paul Traut
Auditor Andrew Reilly
Attorney Danl J Linehan
Assessor Jos J Pfiffner
Alderman 1st ward Philip ryder
2nd John M Byrne
3rd A M Downer
4th P W Crawford
5th Chas Hollnagel
the report was adopted
The retiring Aldermen Clancy martin and McCarthy made a few remarks thanking their fellow aldermen and
city officers for kind assistance and aid during their terms of office and wishing them a successful administration
of city affairs for the coming year
Mayor ODonnell then read the following Valedictory
Regular Session April 9th 1885
Mayor ODonnell in the chair
Present Ald Byrne Clancy Crawford Deckert Hollnagel Kane Martin McCarthy Olinger and Page
Mayors Valedictory
Gentlemen of the council we have now reached the close of the second year of our official association and
some of us are about to retire to give place to the gentlemen who have been selected to fil our respective
positions. Perhaps it may be of advanage to review the work done and the record made during this period
while at the same time we advert to some of the evils incident to our administration and suggest some of
the changes or amendments which might conduce to a less expensive government by fixing greater pesonal
responsibility on is official had and closely following well known economic rules
the result of our first year was highly satisfactory to may of us and to the people generally as far as I could
learn the year just closed has not been quite so satisfactory Although I am confident every member of the
council has tried to make it so and do what he believed best for the general welfare we have expended more
money than the year before with good and permanent improvements to show for every dollar it is true but still
in excess of the amount we should have expended if we wish to attain that result so closely allied to the prosperity
of our city The extinguishment of the public debt and meeting all current expenses from current revenue
without the necessity of borrowing but notwithstanding what I have said and the heavier expenditures for
improvements during the past year we have during the fiscal year above mentioned commencing March 1st
1884 done admirably well in the management of city finances and present a statementof which we may feel
proud for we have paid off and reduced 10,000 of the floating debt and over 15,000 of the bonded debt
making an actual total of 25,573.18 as I will show hereafter and this to without the slightest increase in the tax
levy but with a decrease in the assessment and receipts The large expenditure of which I speak was
occasioned almost entirely by the improvement of Main Street and the filling of the Bush and Cooley los
and payment of the Duffy and the Stange judgments The main street improvement cost the city 8264.47
not including work on cross streets the fifth ward engine house 4714.08 not including furniture second
ward engine house 8535.17 not including furniture Bush and Cooley los 1333.36 Duffy and Stange judgments
4826.99 The money expended on Main Street we are seeking to recover from the abutters and the cost of
filling the Bush and Cooley lots from the owners so that we may be reimbursed these amounts the Duffy
and Stange judgments were recovered the one for personal injury the other for damages by the motor both
before our time and they of course had to be paid
Regular Session April 9th 1885
Mayor ODonnell in the chair
Present Ald Byrne Clancy Crawford Deckert Hollnagel Kane Martin McCarthy Olinger and Page
Now while the engine houses are among the finest structures of the kind in the west and every complete in
every appointment we could hve built two engine houses of sufficient capacity to answer the demands of the
service for many years to come at nearly one half the cost a least we could have saved 5,000 money thus
saved would swell the fund from which a floating debt could be liquidated
It is highly gratifying however gentlemen to know that while in disbursing and appropriating the public funds
we may not in all cases have done what was wisest and best there has not been during this whole period a
breath of intimidation so far as has come to my knowledge against the integrity or honor of my associates
in the council or against any official connected with the collection or disbursement of these large amounts
as public servants we must not expect much commendation for the good we do but rather anticipate with good
natured philosophy a vigorous censure for mistakes of judgment or for disappointments to individuals seeking
our favor it is quite excusable therefore to express our conscious satisfaction at such a record Why is it then
that while members of a council may all desire to administer the city government for the least possible
amount they find at the end of a given year that the expenses are greater than they expected or would have
been willing to make them at the commencement of the year This has been the experience of nearly every
council It is becasue there has been no anticipation of the annual revenue available for current expenses and
limitation of expenses with such revenue at the commencement of the fiscal year If at the commencement
of each year we had apportioned the revenue to the different funds from which we were required to expend
such as a salary fund fire department fund road fund police fund etc we would have known in advance the exact
amount we could have expended on account of salaries strets fire police etc and in having such amounts
definitely ascertained and constantly before us and beng pledged not to exceed them we could with certainty
save a given amount annually for the extingishment of the floating debt So fully am I impressed with the great
advantage of this system in its application to municipal expenses that I can but renew my recommendations
of one and two years ago upon this subject and would continue so to until adopted
Municipal expenditures
As I have stated above we never reach the close of a financial year perhaps without realizing that some items
of city expense have reached much in excess of what we have supposed they would be and of what we
would be willing to have made them at the commencement
There are several evils in our system which conspires to bring
Regular Session April 9th 1885
Mayor ODonnell in the chair
Present Ald Byrne Clancy Crawford Deckert Hollnagel Kane Martin McCarthy Olinger and Page
About these results in the first place we come from different portions of the city which are clearly and distinctly
divided by artificial bounds called wards and our constituents in these several precints while they would
condemn any unnecessary expense in a general way have no condemnation to visit upon us if the expense
happens to be made in their particular neighborhood or ward but upon the contrary rather they encourage any
improvement or expenditure if it is going to be made in their vicinity this makes it embarrassing to the aldermen
representing any such ward for being chosen by the people of that ard to reflect their wishes they very naturally
feel that they are under obligations to favor a proposition petitioned for or supported by their constituents If
the consideration of ward or location could be entirely eliminated from all propositions before the council
and if the people would before petitioning for improvements and expenditures take into consideration the
question of the general necessity for the work many thousands of dollars might be saved
Perhaps there is not one of us who if he alone controlled and was responsible for all expensiture could not
carry on the city government for from 20,000 to 25,000 less per year than has been or will continue to be done
To reach then that management and close economy when acting in the aggregate that we would exercise if
acting as individuals is the great duty we owe to our fellow citizens
Appreciating the fact that an alderman is expected to act more for his ward than for the city at large has led
many people to fel that the mayor should be held more directly responsible for what might be considered improper
or unnecessary action of the city council than any other of its members in this I heartily concur provided as a
matter of law and fact he is responsible but in this city and all cities under special charter he has not the power
to veto any action nor even the right to vote except upon a tie being reached This should not be so the
mayor should be clothed with power to veto any action which did not meet his approval and then upon his
exercise of non exercise of this power should he answer to the people We have the strange anomoly of the
denial of the power to the mayors of cities under special charters while the mayors of all other cities in the state
of over 8000 inhabitants possess it it has proven a most salutory grant of power and I would most cordially
recommend that our senator and representatives in the next general assembly be requested to secure
the passage of an act conferring such power upon mayors of cities under special charters
Regular Session April 9th 1885
Mayor ODonnell in the chair
Present Ald Byrne Clancy Crawford Deckert Hollnagel Kane Martin McCarthy Olinger and Page
This responsibility once fixed upon the mayor would command his closest attention to and examination of
all proposed action would require him to keep constntly advised of the public feeling while it would confer
that salutary restraing which should be reposed in the chief executive officer of any municipal government
We have however adopted some rules and regulations in reference to purchases and expenditures which
have saved us no inconsiderable sum of money notably among which is the order requiring all supplies for the
different city offices to be purchased through the recorder alone This has fixed the responsibility upon one officer
and he has exercised it with marked economy The incidental expenses of the different offices were less
those of the mayors office will not exceed five dollars per year
For several years past there has been heard frequent complaints that our streets have not been lighted on
some nights which appear almost as dark or as other nights when the lamps are lighted The gas company
is not required under its contract with the city to illuminate upon these particular nights for the contract is
that the lamps shall burn according to what is known as the philadelphia schedule of moonlight nights and when
the moon should shine no matter whether it does or not or how completely it may be eclipsed by the clouds
the gas need not burn It would be a good thing to change the conract in this respect and provide for gas light
on all nights in the year except those of unobscured moonlight while the lamps have been well attended and cleaned
during the past year it would still be well to have an ordinance fixing the intervals at which all lamps should
be cleaned and repaired and generally prescribing the duties of the lamplighter of ll the ordinances affecting
the condition of our street perhps tht requiring the removal of ice and snow from the sidewalks has been the
most difficult to enforce this proceeds partly from the fact that a failure to comply is punished by a fine with
no provision for collecting the expense of removal from adjoining owners An amendment in this respect
would secure the more efficient working of the ordinance
City Finances
Notwithstanding we have not accomplished all we have had hoped to accomplish within the last two years
in the reduction of city debt we can still feel highly gratified and justly proud of what has been actully done
during that period
The bonded debt march 1st a1882 was 765814.18
Paid during 1183-4 7468.47
1884-5 7761.97
Amound paid on principal in 2 years 15229.41
Balance bonded debt 1885 750584.74
Regular Session April 9th 1885
Mayor ODonnell in the chair
Present Ald Byrne Clancy Crawford Deckert Hollnagel Kane Martin McCarthy Olinger and Page
This is the amount the principal has been reduced and of course does not show the 46196.32 paid last
year and the 49599.94 paid this year in discharge of inerest upon this debt
The floating debt was march 1st 1883 77131.44
Paid up to March 1st 1885 10343.74
Floating Debt march 1st 1885 66787.70
Total floating and bonded debt March 1st 1883 842945.62
2885 817372.44
total reduction of debt in two years 25573.18
to have met the extraordinary expenses which were created by the new engine houses main street Bush and
Cooley lots and the Duffy and Stange judgments and at the same time reduce the debt over 25,000 and
expecially the floating over 10,000 should satisfy any reasonable peson that we have done something in
the direction of an economical management of our finance It mst be borne in mind that while our tax receipts
read that a one half mill was collected to pay the two judgments referred to above we did not in fact make
any levy of the half mill additional the levy was the same as that of 1883 Eleven mills the half mil was saved
from the expense and special interest fund and applied in discharge of these judgments
Not only is this true but our tax for last year was less than for the year before
Total tax as shown by the list for 1883 172106.90
1884 170154.88
Being less for 1884 1952.02
While this tax should have been increased by many thousands it was as you see reduced largely on account
of merchants reducing of stocks of goods in some cases as much as 10,000 the etotal decrease in tax
actually received for last year over the year before of 5775.71 and there was a decrease in the amount of
licenses of 2993.10 You will remember that for the year 1883 the marshal collected the highest amount for
license ever received by the city
Another matter upon which you are to be congratulated is the fact that we were able last year to carry on the
city and meet all obligations without borrowing as much money as the year before for while it was necessary
to borrow in 1883-4 the sum of 34307.25 in 1884-5 we only borrowed 18484 Of course the large balance
in the treasury at the end of our first year of 53763.59 helped us to this gratifying result
the expense of the fire department increased this year 4647.77 a heavy increase but occasioned largely
by the purchase of a new four wheeled hose cariage New swinging harness furniture and fixture and beds
and bedding for the new houses With these purchases all made there is no reason
Regular Session April 9th 1885
Mayor ODonnell in the chair
Present Ald Byrne Clancy Crawford Deckert Hollnagel Kane Martin McCarthy Olinger and Page
Why there cannot hereafter be a generous reduction in the expenses of this department Excepting this
increase in the Fire Department and an increase of 1364.95 in the police expenses the aggregate has
been the same as the year previous some items of expense being very considerably reduced It was my
intention to submit a detailed tablulated statement of all our receipts and expenses during the last two
years but I find it would extend my remarks to so great a length that I must forego its presentation Although
I deem it the proper thing to do by persons going out of office as we do today
I would also have liked to present a review of the work done by the council during the past two years as to the
nature and character of ordinances passed and other legislation but am met by the same objection If it wold
not lead to invidious distinctions where none should be made I would be pleased to avail myself of this
opportunity to speak a truthful word of our different city officers but the people who have had business relations
with them know as well as I that they are faithful honest and competent public servants It has never been good
luck of the city to have better men filling the different offices within its gift
Before closing I wish to give some expression to my deep sense of obligation to my fellow citizens for twice
electing me to the honorable position from which I now retire I am not unmindful of the fact that the rule had been
to select for the office of mayor men older and of larger experience than I and therefore to have been elected
under such circumstances bears evidence of that confidence which is more highly prized than any other reward
I could receive By no act have I consciously forfeited the trust reposed either upon their part or as I am assured
upon the part of you gentlemen who have participated so intimately with me in the discharge of every official
duty
With many thanks to all the city officers for the uniform kindness and constant courtesy which I have ever
received and with the assurance that I shall ever bear in greatful remembrance the cordial and cheerful spirit
with which you have sustained me as your presiding officer be assured that I shall ever entertain the most
pleasing recollections of the two years passed and now with a wish that you extend to my successor a
gentleman in every worthy your confidence and regard the same sustaining hand which has so generously
supported me I yield the chair that he and the new council may be inducted into office
Regular Session April 9th 1885
Mayor ODonnell in the chair
Present Ald Byrne Clancy Crawford Deckert Hollnagel Kane Martin McCarthy Olinger and Page
Mayor Glab then came forward and was sworn into office for the term of one year after which the new mayor
swore in the new aldermen Mefrs JM Byrne, Crawford, Downer, Hollnagel and Ryder
Mayor Glab's Inaugral
Gentlemen of the council having been selected by the voters of this city to preside over your honorable body and
in obedience to their choice I assemble here with you to inaugurate a new municipal government for the
ensuing year
Our city with its wealth of manufacturing and business interest its large factories with the myriad of revolving
pulleys whose ceasless whirl furnish employment to many thousand workmen its find business blocks magnificent
private residences miles of finely macadamized streets its railways and river commerce cause it to rank first
among the many prosperous cities of our rapidly rising state in wealth and manufacturers All of which can be
attributed to the generous liberality with which our citizens donated their money to build up and foster those
enterprises
Although our city is burdened with a large floating debt our citizens are striving hard to refund the same and
elevate our city to a higher rank than it occupies at present the great problem which our predecessors have
been trying to solve is how shall we liquidate this debt and there is but one way which I know of That is to practice
economy and bring our expenditures within our revenue without increasing the present rate of taxtion It is for
you gentlemen to say how we shall limit the expenditures for the ensuing year whether we shall set apart a
special amount for each department and bring its expenses within this amount thereby saving to the city and
its taxpayers a greater or less surpluss annually the same to be used in refunding our present large debt
I am fully satisfied that every member of this council enters upon the duties he is now called upon to perform
which is to foster the citys interests for the city and its tax payers alone irrespective of party politics treating
every man equally without recourse to his past doings as a citizen and to act as a representtive of the
whole people and general good of our city By so doing the partisan feeling which arises from an election
contest gradually wastes away and little by little we gain the confidence and good will of those who were
aggressive to us by making them feel that we are their servants bound to obey and not their masters By
doing this we gain their gratitude and earnest support in all our undertakings
Regular Session April 9th 1885
Mayor ODonnell in the chair
Present Ald Byrne Clancy Crawford Deckert Hollnagel Kane Martin McCarthy Olinger and Page
Foremost among which are railroads to furnish cheap transportation for the products of our immense manufacturies
thus enabling them to compete with their more formidable eastern competitors thereby increasing their
capacity and number of employees we have now a good chance of having an east shore line connecting
our city with all the great north central states opening many new fields for our surplus productions to the west
of us the Chicago Milwaukee and St Paul Railroad extends her arms of steel silently awaiting the day when our
citizens will give it the necessary encouragement to enter and form another mighty connecting link between
this and our sister cities of the far west It is also rumored that in the near future another iron bridge will span the father
of waters at Eagle Point more formerly uniting us with our neighboring states with a little energy on the part
of our citizens it will also serve as a wagon bridge over which our Wisconsin and Illinois neighbors can dome
at all seasons of the year and find here a market for their valuable produce All of these things will do much to
increase the commercial and manufacturing interests of our city adding untold wealth to its populace
I will aval myself of the opportunity hereafter to make such suggestions and recommendations to your honorable
body as many require your mutual consideration Earnestly hoping that we may have a year of official intercourse
that will be gratifying to ourselves and all our constituents that the griendship that has arose between us during
our career as private citizens will be strengthened by our acts toward one another as public servants
Bcoming the successors of gentlemen who have been faithful an defficient officers in the respective positions
they have filled with valor and today turn over to use We extend to them our kindest wishes for their future welfare
as private citizens
Mayor Glab then swore in the treasurer attorney and recorder for a term of one year
The mayor then handed the recorder a list of the standing committees for the year as follows
Regular Session April 9th 1885
Mayor Glab in the chair
Present Ald Thos Byrne JM Byrne Crawford Deckert Downer Hollnagel Kane Olinger Page and Ryder
Standing Committees
Finance
Ryder Page Hollnagel
Ordinance
Crawford Downer J Byrne
Claims
Kane Olinger J Byrne
Streets
Deckert T Byrne Olinger
Harbors
J Byrne Kane Hollnagel
Markets
Downer T Byrne Kane
Public Grounds and Buildings
Hollnagel Crawford Page
Printing
Hollnagel Downer Deckert
Police
Page Ryder Deckert
Fire
Olinger Ryder Page
Delinquent Tax
T Byrne Crawford Olinger
Executive Committee Board of Health
Olinger Deckert J Byrne
Ald Crawford protesting the standing of the street committee on account of the fourth ward being ignored
not withstanding the mayors promise to place an alderman from that ward on the committee
ald Kane moved that the council proceed to the election of officers
Amended by Ald Deckert that the council adjourn until nin oclock April 10th 1885
The ayes and nays were called on the amendmnet
Ayes Ald Deckert Downer Hollnagel Olinger and Page
Nays Ald Thos Byrne JM Byrne Crawford Kane and Ryder
The vote being a tie the mayor decided to adjourn by voting aye
adjourned
Attest J W Halpin
City Recorder
Regular Adjourned Session April 10th 1885
Mayor Glab in the chair
Present Ald Thos Byrne JM Byrne Crawford Deckert Downer Hollnagel Kane Olinger Page and Ryder
Ald Kane moved that the council proceed to the election of a marshal
Amended by Ald Deckert the council take a recess of 20 minutes and meet as a commitee of the whole
which amendment was adopted
The council reassembled at 10:30 oclock all the members being present when Ald Kane presented a
report of the following appointments
Marshal Ed Moore
Chief Engineer Jos Reinfried
Street Com J W Norton
City Eng M Tschirgi Jr
Market Master S B Rice
Park Keeper M OLoughlin
Wood Measurer Owen Reynolds
Pound Master Wm Koenig
Health Physician Marshal Waples
the report of the committee was unaminously adopted
Ald thos Byrne moved that the mayor appoint two additional members on the street committee one from each
ward not represented
Ald Deckert objected and stated he would not serve on the committee if the motion prevailed
The ayes and nays were called on the mmotion of Ald T Byrne
Ayes ald Thos Byrne JM Byrne Crawford Kane and Ryder
Nays Deckert Downer Hollnagel Olinger and Page
The mayor voted Aye and the motion prevailed
The mayor appointed Ald J M Byrne and Kane as such additional members
Marshal elect Moore appeared and asked for furtner time in which to select his deputy which on motion
was granted
Regular Adjourned Session April 10th 1885
Mayor Glab in the chair
Present Ald Thos Byrne JM Byrne Crawford Deckert Downer Hollnagel Kane Olinger Page and Ryder
Ald Deckert offered the following
Be it resolved by the city council of the city of Dubuque that the subject matter of the Bonds and salaries of
officers be referred to the committee on Finance and Mayor
Amended by Ald kane that it be referred to the committee of the whole the amendment prevailed
Ald Ryder moved that the council proceed to the election of captain of the night police
The mayor appointed Ald Ryder and Deckert tellers
The first ballot resulted Dennis Ryan Five John Raesli Five being a tie the mayor voted for D Ryan who was
declared elected
The council then proceeded to elect city weighers for the different city scales with the following result
First Ward Scales David Crotty Sr
Fifth Ward Scales Frank Fosselmann
West Dubuque Scales Chas Pitschner
Eagle Point Scales Nick Sartor
The council then proceeded to ballot for mayor pro tem which resulted on the sisth ballot in the election of
Ald Olinger
Ald T Byrne moved that wood measurer Reynolds be employed as wharfmaster during the summer at a
salary of twenty dollars per month pay to commence May 1st 1885
carried
Ald Olinger offered the following
Resolved by the city council of the city of Dubuque that o street within the city be sprinkled by any person or
persons engaged in the business of sprinkling streets between the hours of 8 am and 6 pm and the marshal
shall provide for the enforcement of this regulation The resolution was adopted by the following vote
Ayes Ald T J Byrne J Byrne Deckert Hollnagel Olinger and Ryder
Nays ald Crawford Downer Kane and Page
On motion when the council adjourn it be until Monday April 20th at 7:30 pm
adjourned
attest
J W Halpin City Recorder
Adjourned Session April 20th 1885
Mayor Glab in the chair
Present Ald Thos Byrne J m Byrne Crawford Deckert Downer Hollnagel Kane Page and Ryder
Absent Ald Olinger
Ald Crawford stated that a question had arisen as to the legality of the election of the marshal at the last
session and to settle the matter he moved that the council proceed to elect a marshal by ballot
After some discussion as to the merits of the case in point and the opinion of the city attorney being had on
on the matter Ald Crawfords motion prevailed and the council proceeded to elect a marshal by ballot
The mayor appointed Ald Ryder and Deckert tellers
The first ballot resulted in Mr Ed Moore receiving eight votes and F J Zugenbuehler one Mr Moore was declared
elected marshal for the term of one year
the marshal elect was called upon to select his deputy after qualifying before the mayor he made the following
recommendations stating that either one of the partys named would suit him Col John ONeill John Noell
M Blumenauer and P Hanlon were named
the council then proceeded to ballot for deputy marshal and the second ballot resulted in the election of Col
John ONeill he having received a majority of the votes cast on motion of Ald Kane the election was made
unanimous
Ald Hollnagel Chairman of the committee on printing reported in favor of paying the following bills for printing
The hearald The Times The Telegraph Democrat The Independent F A Gniffke The Luxemberg Gazette
The report was adopted
Ald Hollnagel chairman of the committee on Public Grounds and Buildings reported on the insurance policy on
the town clock tower recommending that the policy be returned and a policy for 1500 substituted therefor
the recommendation was adopted
Adjourned Session April 20th 1885
Mayor Glab in the chair
Present Ald Thos Byrne J m Byrne Crawford Deckert Downer Hollnagel Kane Page and Ryder
Absent Ald Olinger
Ald Hollnagel offered the following
Be it resolved by the city council of the city of Dubuque that only one daily official paper be appointed for
the ensuing year at one half 1/2 rate and one German weekly paper be also appointed as an official paper
for the coming year the payment of said German weekly paper to be fixed by the council Said official papers
to be selected by ballot the resolution was adopted
The ballot for the official paper daily resulted as follows
the Herald 5 The Times 1 the Telegraph Democrat 3
the Herald was declared the daily official paper for the ensuing year
For the German weekly paper the first ballot resulted as follows
the National Democrat 8 Luxemberg Gazette 1
The national Democrat was declared the official German paper for the year
On motion of ald Crawford the committee on printing was instructed to confer with the managers of the papers
and ascertain their best rates and report to the council
Petitions
The remonstrance of Mrs D W Eichman et al protesting against the removal of the market house scales was
referred to the com on markets
The petition of John Geiger et al asking for lamp posts on Windsor Avenue was referred to the committee on
police and gas
The petitionof A J H Tuegel et al for the improvement of an alley between Couler Avenue and Francis Sreet
from Eagle Point Avenue to Hart Street was referred to the committee on streets
The petition of H L Stout et al for the introduction and adoption nof the Gamewell Fire Alarm System was
referred to the committee of the whole
the petition of Mrs Ann Kennedy in relation to the dangerous condition of a wall over her premises on south
Locust st was referred to the committee on streets
The petition of A Graham in relation to erroneous assessment was referred to the commitee on delinquent
tax
the petition of M Mahony et al in relation to grade of Grand View Street was referred to the committee on
streets
Adjourned Session April 20th 1885
Mayor Glab in the chair
Present Ald Thos Byrne J m Byrne Crawford Deckert Downer Hollnagel Kane Page and Ryder
Absent Ald Olinger
The petition of J B Pfiffner et al for an increase of salary of firemen was referred to the com of the whole
the petitions of Mrs Carr and Jacob Auer asking that their special assessment be cancelled was referred
to the city attorney
the communication from R E Graves in relation to old bonds maturing in 1899 was referred to the finance
com
Teh bill of te steam heating company was ordered paid and the bill of John Ganahl referred to the street com
The proposition of C McElrath to sprinkl around all the property of the city was referred to the committee on
public grounds and buildings
Ald Kane moved that sealed bids be received for the said work the motion prevailed
A communication and plat of the proposed sewerage system was presented by the city engineer and it
was referred to the committee of the whole
ald Deckert offered the following
Be it resolved by the ciyt council of the city of Dubuque that the city recorder be and is hereby instructed to
issue a venire to the city marshal to summon a jury in the case of the proposed vacation of a portion of Kniest
Street and to proceed in accordance with the ordinance on said subject the resolution was referred to the
street
Ald Deckert offered a resolution for the improvement of Nineteenth Street between White and Jackson
Streets the resolution was referred to teh street committee and engineer
Ald Hollnagel offered the following
Be it resolved by the city council that the city engineer be instructed to make a survey of the Bee Branch
from the bridge on Couler Ave to the Bluff on the property of John Heim and report to the council at its
next session the resolution was adopted
Ald Crawford moved that when the council adjourn it adjourn to meet on Thursday April 23/85 at 7:30 pm
carried
Adjourned Session April 20th 1885
Mayor Glab in the chair
Present Ald Thos Byrne J m Byrne Crawford Deckert Downer Hollnagel Kane Page and Ryder
Absent Ald Olinger
ald Ryder moved that the council proceed to fix the bonds and salaries of the different city officers
Amended by ald Crawford that it be postponed until the next meeting of the council the amendment prevailed
Ald Ryder called the attention of the council to the bad condition of one of the horses in the fourth street
engine house endangering the health of the other horses
After some discussion as to the proper parties to take action in the matter it was refered to the executive
committee of the Board of Health the physician and chief engineer
Ald Kane moved that the finance committee be instructed to examine the books and offices of the different
city officers
amended by Ald Hollnagel that two members be added to the committee one from each ward not represented
on the finance committee the motion as amended prevailed and the mayor apointed Ald Downer and Crawford
as such members
Ald Kane moved that a special committee of five be appointed to examine and find out the amount of license
unpaid and collectable if any and report to the council at its next regular meeting the motion prevailed and
the mayor appointed Ald Kane Downer Hollnagel JM Byrne and thos Byrne.
the newly elected Deputy Marshal came forward and was qualified by the mayor.
Adjourned
Attest
J W Halpin
City Recorder
Adjourned Regular Session April 23rd 1885
Mayor Glab in the chair
Present Ald Thos Byrne JM Byrne Crawford Deckert Downer Hollnagel Kane Olinger Page and Ryder
The mayor stated the object of the meeting to be to hear the report of the committee of the whole
Ald Olinger chairman of the committee of the whole made the following report on the bonds and salaries
of officers for the ensuing year
Officer Bond Salary Term
Treasurer
Recorder
Auditor
Attorney
marshal
City Engineer
Chief Eng FD
St Commissioner
market Master
health Physician
Deputy Marshal
Pound Master
Park Master
All books and records in the different offices to be kept up without extra compensation
Ald Kane moved to amend the report by increasing the salary of the auditor to 1200 per year the ayes
and nayes were called and the amendment was lost
Ayes Ald JM Byrne Kane Ryder
Nays Thos Byrne Crawford Deckert Downer Hollnagel Olinger and page
The report of the committee was then adopted
ald Olinger moved that the license of roller skating rinks be increased to 100 per year
Amended by ald Crawford that the license remain the same as fixed by ordinance being 50 the amendmenbt
prevailed Ayes JM Byrne Crawford Downer kane olinger Page and Ryder 7
Nay Thos Byrne Deckert and Hollnagel
Adjourned Regular Session April 23rd 1885
Mayor Glab in the chair
Present Ald Thos Byrne JM Byrne Crawford Deckert Downer Hollnagel Kane Olinger Page and Ryder
Ald Olinger reported on the bill of Justice Hoffmann that the same be paid the report was adopted
The same reported on the petition of J B Pfiffner and other firemen asking an increase in salary that the
petition be received and filed the report was adopted
The same reported that the saloon license be fixed at 100.00 per year payable quarterly the first quarter to
be paid on or before May First 1885
On motion the rules were suspended and Mr John Wunderlich president of the Personal Liberty Association
addressed the council in relation to the matter of saloon license asking for delay
Ald page moved that action on saloon license be postponed until the regular session in may
carried
Ald Olinger presented the specifications and proposals of the Gamewell Fire Alarm Telegraph Company
for the construction and putting in use their system of fire alarm Telegraph in this city which after beng read was
referred together with any other proposals relating to the same to the committee of the whole
Ald Hollnagel chairman on public grounds and buildings reported in favor of leasing a strip of ground 20 by
36 adjoining the Ice Harbor at the foot of First Street to Jms Keckwot after a rental of ten $10 per year in advance
the ayes and nays were called on the adoption of the report
Ayes Ald T Byrne Crawford Hollnagel Kane and Page
nays Ald J Byrne Deckert Downer Olinger an dRyder
the vote being a tie the mayor voted aye and the report was adopted and the recorder instructed to draw up
a duplicate of the lease
The same presented several bids for planting trees in Jackson Park on motion the bids were referred back
to the committee with power to let the job to the lowest and best bidder
Ald Downer offered the following resolution
Resolved that the market scales be removed from their present location to a point near the southeast
corner of Market Building and that the remaining portion of sidewalk and space on the south side be put
in condition for market purposes
Adjourned Regular Session April 23rd 1885
Mayor Glab in the chair
Present Ald Thos Byrne JM Byrne Crawford Deckert Downer Hollnagel Kane Olinger Page and Ryder
the ayes and nays were called and the resolution was adopted by the following vote
Ayes Ald T Byrne Deckert Downer Kane Olinger and Ryder
Nays J Byrne Crawford Hollnagel and Page
Ald Hollnagel offered the following
Whereas it is with regret that we have heard of the death of Ex Alderman Joseph Gehrig and that in his death
the city of Dubuque has lost one of its most enterprising and valuable citizens
Therefore be it resolved that we the members of the city council of the city of Dubuque do hereby extend our
heartfelt sympathy to his bereaved family in this their hour of affliction and that we fully realize that in his death
the city of dubuque has lost one whose voice and means were always employed in the development of our
city
resolved further that this resolution be spread upon the record of council proceedings of the city
adopted
Ald Crawford offered the following
Resolved that the subject of sewerage be referred to a committee of citizens consisting of Wm H Peabody
Wm L Bradley H B Glover AY McDonald A A oper B E Linehan James Beach Wm Ryan Geo Crane JB Howard
Dr Asa horr J A Koch Hon Wm B Allison Dr J S Lewis John R Waller
Together with teh city engineer and city attorney
that said committee be respectfully requested to devise and perfect a definite plan of sewering the city and
submit the same to the city council with a recommendation as to the proper method of paying the expense of
the construction of the proposed system together with an estimate of the cost
that the city engineer an dcity attorney be instructed to attend the meeting of said committee and render
all assistance and information within their power the resolution was adopted
Ald Olinger stated that as some dissatisfaction had been expressed by some members of the council at the
price paid for horses by himself and other members of the committee he stated that he was now ready to take
the horses off the hands of the ciyt at the price he had paid for two horses 450.00
Ald Deckert moved that the proposition of Ald Olinger be accepted and the horses returned to him
Adjourned Regular Session April 23rd 1885
Mayor Glab in the chair
Present Ald Thos Byrne JM Byrne Crawford Deckert Downer Hollnagel Kane Olinger Page and Ryder
Ald Ryder asked if Ald Olinger wold take the horses at once or leave them until other horses were purchased
to replace them
Ald Olinger stated that he would pay over the money and would take the horses at once
The ayes and Nays were called on Ald Deckert's motion to accept the proposition
ayes Ald JM Byrne Crawford Deckert Downer Hollnagel Kane and Olinger
Nays Ald Thos Byrne Page and Ryder
the proposition was accepted and the chief engineer was instructed to receive the money and turn over the
horses to the alderman
On motion the following were appointed a committee to purchase a new team of horses Ald J M Byrne Mayor Glab
Chief Engineer Reinfried and Jerry Murphy the driver of the steamer Sol Turck
Adjourned
Attest J W Halpin
City Recorder