HomeMy WebLinkAboutCC 1916-05-04 MinutesA ,
Hon. City Counoil,
Miami, Florida.
Gentlemen:
ADJOORNEt MEETING OF OSUNOXL 'i` t -g AY Al % '
in, the abaenoe ,of ..a quorOm, no .meeht W,waw 4044 .
REGULAR MEETING OF COUNCIL THURSDAY MAY 4, 1916, CALLED TO OiDER BY OHAIRNAN HEFTY '7,30
P.m.
Members present: F. G. Erfert, F. H. Wharton, H. G. Ralston, C. F. Filer, L. 0. Romfh,
L. T. Highleyman, 0. Hefty.
SEWER FOR LAWRENCE ESTATE TO BASE BALL PARK (District 5, Resolution 919)
The clerk read the following letter from Tatum Brothers:
" Miami, Florida, April 27, 1916.
Sometime since you agreed to let a contract to build a sewer from Lawrence.
Drive to Avenue U and from Avenue U to 9th St. As yet, the work has not been done, and
as we are making extensive improvements in this vicinity, and as we are needing sewerage
on other streets, we are attaching herewith a map showing such streets for whioh we
would like to have sewerage.
We understand that the contract prioe for the line of sewer whioh you propose
to build was about $10,000. but in talking over this sewerage proposition with City
Engineer Klyoe he advised us that if a trunk line sewer is extended out 13th St.
that the cost of the entire proposition as a whole could be greatly reduced. In view of
this fact we would be willing to loan the oity a sufficient amount of money to pay its
part of this sewerage system. We feel, however, that the city should put in $10,000.
in this sewerage extension.
Your oity engineer will probably have for you an approximate estimate of the
costnof this sewerage, and as one of our firm will be at the oounoil meeting this
evening we will be glad to go into 1,etails with you in regard to this matter.
Very truly yours,
Tatum Bros. Real Estate & Inv. Co.
By S. M. Tatum,
V. Pres."
Mr. S. M. Tatum: In conversation with Mr. Klyoe he says this cost will be approximately
$25,000. which covers part of lo, 11, 12, 13 and 14th Streets, two blocks on some •
streets and three on others. We realize the oity is probably not finanoially able to
handle it and we are very anxious to get the wok done. We expect to spend $150,000. in
this district by 0otober lat and in view of this if the city will agree to it, we
will advance the city $10,000. for its part of the work. By so doing the.oity will not
be called on to pay out very much cash. This will not only help us but by extending
the trunk line sewer out 13th St. it will aocomodate other sections than our own. We
would like to have you take favorable aotion in this matter.
Mr. Romfh: Under the contracts we have we can not tell how many liens we can put down
against which to issue improvement bonds,- the contracts now outstanding amount to more
than the city's sewer funds. I think we should do thie because it means they are going
to spend $150,000. a pay roll which everybody shares in more or less.
Mr. ]EtxszxX x Wharton: How much of that district is under Contract now?
Mr. Ilyoe: None of it. The contract has not been signed. It would be more desirable to
oanoel that oontract and let the district out as a whole At the time the sewer was
let to reach the park, a trunk sewer was not contemplated, and was madt deeper than is
neoessary if we put in a trunk.
Moved by E. C. Romfh, seconded by F. H. Wharton, that the engineer prepares the necessary
plans and profiles. Motion oarried.
GRADES FOR SIDEWALKS IN LAWRENCE ESTATE
Mr. Tatum: We would like to have the engineer establish grades for sidewalks out there,
for about 7,000 or 8,000 feet of concrete walks as quickly as possible.
He was informed by Mr. Wharton that this would be done.
STREET IMPROVEMENTSTLAWRENCE ESTATE
., Mr. Tatum: I understand contract has been let to r eaurfaoe 12th St. to Avenue U. Would
!it be possible to make 12th Street, as muoh as we do build, 18 or 20 feet wide, to grade?
It will make our sidegalka look better if the street is to.grade. The oontract has been
let and we would like to have the city attorney's advice on that.
Mr. Klyce: Most of the streets are to grade. There is no way we oan legally do oonsider-
'able grading the way our improvement resolutions read. There is only one place the
lestablished grade differs from the surface as now. If Mr. Tatum oan arrange to pay
the contractor for the extra work, so that the oity does not appear in it, we oan do
ahead and do the work.
BRIDGES OVER THE MIAMI RIVER OWNERSHIP OF RIPARIAN RIGHTS ADJACENT AND UNDER THE
TWELFTH STREET BRIDGE
,The clerk read the following communication:
"Miami, April 27, 1916.
To the Honorable City Council,
Miami, Florida.
Gentlemen:
Ir. J. H. Tatum has taken up with us the matter of the approadoea: from the .east
and went to the 12th Street bridge over the Miami River. Mr. Tatum is the c!na c in top
eimplo of the land ob both sides of the river upon which the -approaches Mato!'adz
advised that he has heretofore taken this matter up with you oft var0.o40 Q00W*
endeavored to reach some amicable adjustment "`
various communications and letters.
Inasmuch as the city is preparing to 0O4WOTAW !
will save time and expense to bar® 0.044Z*r
A :it�, i5lu Y f: A- ji
egular meetings... 41- 407-104 Mary 4th, 1916.
turned over the bridge to the oity it was by a bill .oi' eale for, e' atx4gtuaeae.
the proposed bridge will probably be perManent in its nature, k mill'hav 'to itiSist u
compensation to.be paid him for the land before the work prooeeds.
Yours very truly,
Shutta, Smith & Bowen."
Moved by H. G. Ralston, seconded by F. G. Erfert that the matter be referred to kee
oity attorney and street committeeman for investigation. Motion parried. (Letter mailed
oity attorney Cason May 9,1916)
TAXES REQUEST FOR REDUCTION BY J. H. BRATLEY
"Miami, Florida, May 3, 1916.
To the Hon. City Council,
Miami, Florida.
Gentlemen:
I respectfully request that the tax on my home be reduoed from the
assessment of $15.93 to 3.10, this being 1.38 per aore.
My reason for making this request is that the F E 0 gold grounds whioh has more wat
front than I have is assessed at 91 cents per acre. This tract joins mine.
Then the Sewell tract whioh has muoh more improvements, than I have is assessed at 1
per acre.
Trusting that you will grant my request, I am,
Yours truly,
J. H. Bratley."
tlr. Erfert: I don't see that we oan do anything only double the other taxes and let it r
Mr. Romfh: There is only one time to appear and that is when the Board of Equalization
meets.
Mr. Hefty: You are probably aware that the proper time is when the assessment roll is ma
up.
tar. Bratley: I was here.
Mr. Ralston: At that time we told the gentlemen that we would either raise the others or
reduce his. In fact I think we did raise the others but found it would hold up our bonds
because we would have had to advertise the raises, and we let it go for last year.
Moved by E. C. Romfh, seconded by H. G. Ralston, that Mr. Bratley pay the full amount
assessed and the auditor draw voucher in refund of the difference.
Mr. Erfert: I think a man who will kick on $1.38 per aore should not have land in Dade
County, but should move out.
On roll call the vote was F. G. Erfert, No; N. H. Wharton, yes; H. G. Ralston, yes;
C. F. Filer, yes; B. C. Romfh, yes; ,, T. Highleyman, yes; C. Hefty, yea.
COLORED TOWN REQUEST OF COLORED BOARD OF TRADE FOR BETTER CONTROL OF RED LIGHT DISTRICT
FOR WATER MAINS INTO COLORED CEMETERY
FOR A PARK IN COLORED TOWN
Miami, May 4, 1916.
The Hon. City Council.
At the request of the Colored Board of Trade, we.a oommittee of
its members beg leave to request the Honorable City Council:
First, that the police oommissioner through the city council be asked to have the
regulations in regard to women of ill fame more strictly oomplied with; the.
women and men living in open adultery be prosecuted; that the street walker
be stopped from openly parading the streets.
Second: that the city eduneil pass the proper and necessary measure, giving to the
colored citizens a public park to be used as a play ground for the Negro
children. In this regard we respectfully submit for the oonsideration of th
council the block bounded by Waddell St on the north, Columbia Ave on the
west, Lemon St on the south and Avenue H on the west; a block 416 x 3004
Third: That the city will have the water mains oonduot water into the colored oeme
Committee of the Colored Board of Trade,
H. S. Bragg, Chairman,
R. E. S. Toomer, Secretary".
bar? Filer: The request is all right, but what power has the police commissioner?
Chairman: Thecommissionerand tbe mayor.
:loved by H. G. Ralston, seconded by F. G. Erfert, that the matter of women of ill fame
be referred to the mayor and police oommissioner for investigation. Motion parried.
Moved by F. H. Wharton, seconded by H. G. Ralston, that the matter of water for colored
cemetery be referred to the fire commissioner. motion carried
Mr. Ralston: There is no question about the need for a park in oolored town nor the jua
of the request nor the desire of the oity oounoil to give them a park. It is simply a
question of finance.
Mr. Highleyman: I was out there this afternoon and they oertainly need a park,
moved by E. C. Romfh, seconded by L. T. Highleyman, that the park oommisaioner look .int
the matter and see about the proper location and inra tentative way the pxACA 4Lft, H.
traot suitable for a park for the oolored people. Motion carried.
Mr. Romfh suggested that it might be possible to lease a site.
commissioner Filer May 10,19167.t:,,,s
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STREET CROSSINGS OVER F? E. C. RY
1 "At Augustine, Fla. April 25, 1916.
Mr. N. B. Moore,
City Clerk, Miami.
Dear Sir: -
Yours of April 14 in the matter of street orossings has just reached me on
account of absenoe from the city. I will take this matter up with the roadway department
and arrange to have the crossings put in condition, in a000rdan oe with our understanding,
as embodied in my letter of October 19, 191B.
Yours truly,
J.P.Beokwith,
Vice President.
On motion duly made and carried the letter was received and referred to the city engineer
(Letter mailed to B H Klyoe May 10,1916)
BILLS AGAINST THE CITY EXTRA SERVICES CITY ATTORNEY
"Miami, Fla. April 22, 1916.
City Council,
Miami, Florida.
Gentlemen:
Recently the polioe department arrested Mr. Huston Wyeth for the violation
of that section of the building oode which prescribed a fifteen foor building line. Mr.
Wyeth sued out a writ of habeas corpus and the matter was taken before Judge Branning
for decision.
The writer, assisted by a member of the firm with which he is oonneoted, spent
practically all of two days in briefing the question and the greater part of one day
in making oral arguments before Judge Branning. Judge Branning has entered an order
holding the ordinanoe good and sustaining the city.
For special services in connection with this matter I attach bill hereto, whioh I
trust you will find reasonable.
Yours very truly,
F. W. Cason,
City Attorney".
Bill for $50. approved by Fiananoe Committeeman and on motion duly made and carried,
was ordered paid.
MIAMI RIVER REMOVAL OF ISLANDS AT THE MOUTH
"Jacksonville, Fla. Apri128, 1916
The Hon. Mayor, City of Miami.
Dear Sir:-
Mrs. Mary Brickell has filed with me an application for permission to remove
three small islands in Biscayne Bay opposite the mouth of the river whioh were formed som
years ago of material thrown up by the dredging in the ohannel from the lower bay to the
Miami River. Mrs. Brickell desires to remove these islands entirely down to the roe.sh
A similar application was submitted by Mrs. Brickell in November 1914. Atthat
time the,project was opposed by the City of Miami, the city council on October 1, 1914
passim, the following resolution:
"Regularly moved and seconded that Major Ladue be requested to
send an engineer to Miami to make a thorough investigation
before permission is granted to remove the islands at the nouth
of the Miami River".
Capt. W. H. McIntyre, Bar Pilot and Harbor Master, also opposed the project
from apprehension that if the islands were removed, the northeast winds would wash sand
and mud into the dredged ohannel, causing it to fill up. On account of these objections,
and because of apprehension that the effeot feared might, in fact, follow, Mre. Brickell'
application was denied by the Secretary of War.
I am now advised that the opposition formerly manifested to this projeot no
longer exists and that the pity authorities are in favor of the work. I have been
furniehed with a copy of a resolution of the oity board of health urging that it be done;
also a letter from Capt. Molntyre to the same general effect.
Will you kindly lay this matter before the council and advise me whether or,
not the oity desires to interpose any objection to the granting of Mrs. Briokell'a
request,
Very respectfully,
W. B. Ladue,
Maj. Corps of Engineers .
Mr. Ralston: about five o'clock this afternoon Mr. McCaskill, Mrs. Briokell's atty.
oame into my office and I gave him an outline of the resolution we will have to pass,
which was given me by Maj. Ladue's assistant, and Mr. MaCgkill said he would have that
resolution here to night.
'Mr. HighleymanL Can we send a copy of it to Maj. Ladue.
Mr. Ralston: We have to have oertain resolutions, blue prints and red tape. The
resolution we passed here the other might was to the effeot that the I. I. Board
%Quid deed the islands to the oity.
Mr. McCaskill appeared at this time and stated that he did not think the Trustees of
I. I. Fund had any title to the islands and that Maj. Ladue has said he would give
Mrs. Brickell permission to remove the islands.
Mr. Wharton than ontroduoed resolution as follows:
RESOLUTION NO. 1Q45-5
Whereas, there is looated at the mouth Of the Miami Rigor, E .orldi.,
island between whioh and the south bank of the Miami. , t . er. ire a ins 't r, oM4)4). fo;
passage of boats into the main channel leading .4ow }cayne y,'< d,,r
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Reg+:tlar meeting May 4, 1916..
Whereas, this islandis so located that silt and sediment from the Miami 0Ahaland
sewers of Miami which empty into the Miami River come down said river and are Washed
against said island and whioh on a000unt of the obstruction to the ourrerit of said
river, oreated by said island, falls and forms and accumulates in the bottom of said
river.
And Whereas this accumulation in the bottom of the said river and. in the channel
leading into the said Bay, has heretofore bean such an impediment and detriment to
navigation that the WAR DEPARTMENT of the FEDERAL GOVERNMENT has required the Trustees
of the I. I. Fund of Florida'end the City of Miami, to dredge out the said aocumulation
at great expense and on two or more occasions,
AND WHEREAS Mrs. Mary Briokell has offered to remove said island without expense to
any other person,
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That said Counoil of Miami, Florida, do, and it
does hereby reoom:..end to the Trustees of the I. I. Fund of Florida that that body do
grant to Mrs. Mary Briokell or to any other person who will remove aaid•ialand, its
full permission to move the name, and grant to suoh person all its right, title and
interest in and to the same, and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED? That the City Counoil of Miami, Florida, does hereby grant
to Mrs. Mary Briokell, its full permission to remove the aforesaid island.
This resolution read and adopted this the 4th day of May, A. D. 1916, at a regular
meeting of the City Counoil, and the City Clerk is authorized to deliver a certified
copy hereof to any person.
CASPAR HEFTY
President of City Council of Miami, F:
Attest:
W. B. Moore,
City Clerk.
This is to certify that the above and foregoing is a true and correct copy of a
resolution which was proposed and adopted by the City Counoil of Miami, Florida, at its
meeting held on Thursday evening, May 4th, A. D. 1915.
Moved by E. C. Rornfh, seconded by L. T. Highleyman that Res. No. 1045 be adopted.
On roli call all voted yea.
PUBLIC SERVICE CORPORATION. RATES CHARGED.
The clerk read the following communication:
Miami, Fla., May 3rd, 1916.
To the Buena Vista Improvement Aasooiation:
Gentlemen:
I be g to submit the accompanying data regarding rates oharged in
other cities throughout the United States for eleotrio lights, water, telephone, ioe
and gas. I selected from one to three oitiea in eaoh state of the Union, or a total
of 100 cities, to which I wrote for the desired information, and received replies from
71 of name. However, only 63 furnished any inforrnation'worth considering.
Referring to the charges for electric lights; I will call your
attention again to the franchise of the Miami Electric Light & Power Co. Under the
franchise granted it by the City of Miami the Company must made such rates and Charges
and collect same for electricity supplied or used by consumers and others in said city
and vicinity, as shall at all times be reasonable and which shall not exoeed the rates
usually and colleoted by other private companies for the same servioea under like con-
ditions in towns and cities of the same size in the United States.
It will be observed that only one out of the 45 private oorporations
in the United States, from which reports have been received, oharges more than the
Miami Electric Light & Power Co., and only 5 of these 45 charge as much as is oharged
for eleotrio lights in Miami.
According to thetabulated report herewith furnished, the average
maximum oharged for electric lights in cities where the plants are owned by private
oorporb.tiona is about 10 cents per kilowatt hour, as against a maximum charge of 15
cents in Piaui. The other eight cities from whioh reports were received the charges
are less than in Miami; however, in these partioular places the eleotrio light plants
are owned by the respective oitiea.
NATER.
As to ohargea for' water, 56 cities reported: thirteen of the
water plants being owned by private oorporationa and forty-three by the cities. A
comparison of the figures submitted indicate that the water rate in Miami is not far
from the average rate charged by private corporations in other cities.
T1,e franchise of the Miami Water Co. is identical withthe franchise
of the Miami Eleotrio Light & Power (o.
TELEPHONE.
Fifty-four oities reported on Telephone °bar es, all of the
telephone plants being owned by private corporations, except in the city of 8t. Peters-
burg, Florida. That City also owns its water and gas plants. In only eight of the
54 cities reporting on telephone rates the maximum ohargea are higher than ti .p imw*
oharge in Miamiy while an only six, of those oitiea the minimum oharge is mot
Miami.
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REGULAR MEETING OF CITY COUNCIL MAY 4, 1918.
(Publio 8ervioe Corp. Rates Charged.)
By an act of the Legislature the State Railroad Commission has absolute
and exlusive jurisdiction governing the matter of telephone rates. The law on the sub-
ject being as follows:
"Article 7 - Supervision by Railroad Commissioners."
"Seotion 2839 M -- All rates, tolls, oontraots and charges, rules and regula-
tions of telephone oompanies for messages, conversations, servioes rendered and equipment
and faoilities supplied, whether suoh message, oonversation or service to be performed be
over one company or line or by two or more companies or lines, shall be fair, just,
reasonable, and sufficient."
"Seotion 2829-z --- That as the polioy of this State is hereby declared to be
that all persons, firms or oorporations engaged in or oarrying the telephone business or
telegraph business within this State should be and shall be under the exclusive jurisdiot
ion of the Railroad Commissioners of this State and not under the jurisdiotion of any
municipal body so far as relates to rates or charges or service and.faoilities of such
person, firm or oorporation, and the matters and things herein mentioned, all looal or
speoial laws or any other laws or parts of laws in oonfliot with the provision of this
aot are hereby repealed."
I OE.
Smuording to figures from the 40 cities reporting on charges for ice, the
average charge appears to be about the same as the average oharge for ioe in Miami.
None of the cities reporting own their Ice Plants.
G A S.
Only 50 cities were written to regarding charges for gas, and just half of
that number reported. St. Petersburg, Florida, and Danville, Virginia, are the only two
of these cities owning their gas plants.
The average oharge for gas, according to reports received, is about $1.34
per 1000 cubic feet, while the charge in Miami is $1.50 per 1000 cubic feet.
Under the franchise of the Miami Gas Company a maximum oharge of $1.50 is
allowed. Section 4 of said franchise reads as follows:
"The Miami Gas Co. shall not charge to private.00nsumers of its gas in said
City of Miami more than $1.50 for 1000 oubio feet of gas."
Respeotfully submitted,
Sam T. Young, President!'
.r. Young made the following statement: For the Buena Vista Improvement Assooiation
I have made some investigation of the relative cost of gas, water, etc. by oorr sponden
and the Association instructed me try oome before you. I would like to interest tithe
council in the matter It is of vital interest to the citizens in general. The
Aasociation requests that you appoint a committee to investigate these figures,
particularly the eleotrio light and gas oharges, both of whioh are exoeasive in Miami.
We of course request only a fair and impartial investigation. Espeoially after an
investigation sentiment grows against the companies and oharges are made from time to
time and it finally winds up in a majority of oases that there is a d.mand for
municipal ownership and sometimes the cities pay these corporations large sums for
their stook which is often watered to the limit. I think a fair invstigation should be n;.de
and if it is developed that exorbitant rates are oharged, the oompaniea brought to proper
account. I will be glad to co-operate withra committee in any way possible. I have had
some experience in the telephone service and oan give you my experience as to why telepho e
companies can operate for -less than they are charging in Miami.
.a,r. Wharton: With._ut discussing the matter, I move that the Chair appoint a committee of
three to investigate this matter with a view to a. reduction in charges for eleotrioity,
and also with a view of starting a movement, if possible, for the oity to acquire the
electric light plant. If the charges are exorbitant we oan, in all probability, get a
reduction from the company to conformswith charges made in other cities of lime
population and it might be that we oan work out some scheme to take over the water plant.
It will bear investigation at any rate. The motion was seconded by Mr. Highleyman
and carried unanimously.
The chairman appointed Councilmen Wharton, Ralston and Highleyman to make the investigation
and report. (Communication mailed to Councilman Wharton May lo,1918)
BRIDGES OVER MIAQI RIVER TEMPORARY STRUCTURE AT 12th STREET
Councilman Wharton,introduoed the following resolution:
Resolution No. 1044
Be It resolved, By the City Council of the City of Miami, Flordda, That Cpnsulting
Engineers, Harrington, Howard and Ash, be and they are hereby authorized to request
permission of the War Department, U S A., for the oonstruotion of a t:cporary bridge
over the Miami !:aver adjaoent to 13th Street, in the oity of Miami, which will
inoorporate the present awing span of the existing bridge at 12th Street.
Passed and adopted this 4th day of May, 1918.
•Caspar Hefty,
Attest: President City Council
W. B. Moore,
City Clerk.
Moved by E.C.Romfh,seoonded 0.F.F1ler t
voted yes.
azama
941 Regular meeting May 4, 1916.
CHARGES AGAINST LIEUTENANT OF POLICE J. D. DORMAN
"To the City Council,
Miami, Florida.
Gentlemen:
0n the 3rd day of May 1916, I served notice upon Mr. J. D. Dorman,
lieutenant of the Miami police force, notifying him that I had suspended him as a
member of said police foroeand as an officer thereof, subject to confirmation by your
honorable body.
My reasons for suspending the said J. D. Dorman from office are as follows:
On evi..enoe produced before me whioh has been reduoed to writing and is attached
hereto, I am of the opinion that said J. D. Dorman has been guilty of the following
charges:
1. Guilty of improper oonduot while on duty in permitting certain men to enter the
New Majestic Hotel over the objeotion of the proprietress thereof, and going to
the room of a tenant and taking therefrom certain intoxicating liquors or malt
beers. Said misconduct having oocurred on Sunday morning April 30, 1916.
2. The said J. D. Dorman has been guilty of conduct unbecoming an officer and as a
member of the local police force, through improper relations with a oertain.womal
by the name of Ruby Davis who resides in the district commonly known as Hardie -
villa, said misconduct reaching over a period of several weeks priot to date
hereof.
The testimony taken at the hearing before me is attached hereto and made a part
of this report and of these oharges.
Dated this 4th day of May, 1916.
Signed P. A. Henderson,
Mayor, City of Miami."
City Atty. Tiie Mayor has complied with his duty, as set out in Section 21 of the Charte
and it is now the duty of the council to give Mr. Dorman notice of the time it will hear
the accused. Mr. Dorman is present and verbal notice will be sufficient.
Chairman: Mr. Dorman, do you wait to be heard in tile matter?
Mr. Dorman: I have not much to say. It is all right with me to hear it.
Chairman: You have the right to demand a hearing; it is up to you whether you oars
have council review the case.
w.. Mr. Dorman: Yes, sir, I am reedy.
Chairman: It le not a question as to whether you are willing; you have that right.
Mr. Ralston: Do you,.dmit the charges or do you want council to review them?
Mr. Dorman: I would like to have council review them.
to
loved by H. G. Ralston, seconded by E. C. Romfh that the hearing be set for Monday night
May 8, 1916. Motion carried.
CHARITY
Chairman: Mr. Dorman, we will have the hearing next monday night.
ASSESSMENTS INTEREST ON ASSESSMENTS FOR STREET IMPROVEMENTS PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
Clerk Moore: The Presbyterian Church want to be relieved of the interest on their
assessments. They are about the only church that has paid its assessments and as they
pretty hard up, they ask the city to donate the interest.
Mr. Romfh: They will have to pay the full amount with the interest and any donation
council would make would have to come out of the general fund. It is irregular.
Moved by`E. C. Romfh, seconded by L. T. Highleyman, that the First Presbyterian Church
be requested to pay the whole amJunte of the assessments for street improvements,
including ao rued interest, and the oity donate the amount of the interest. Motion
carried.
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are
A gentleman in the audienoe spoke about some worthy people who are very much in
need and the chairman brought up a case where the head of the family has, been ill
for sometime and is now without means. After some discussion, on motion duly made
and carried both oases were referred to the mayor with power to aot. The chairman
informed the mayor that he would co-operate with him and the finance committeeman
FIRE DISTrlICT MOVING WOODEN STRUCTURES FROM ONE POINT TO ANOTHER
Mr. G. L. Miller addressed council and requested permisalon to move the frame building
now at the northwest corner of 13th and B to a lot at the oorner of 6th and B but that
under a strict construction of the ordinances now in force he oan not do so; stated
further that the building would be a credit to the oommunity into which he wants to move
it; that while the ordinanoe might be amended, he thought council had some latitude;
,that the inspector would issue a permit if oounoil would pass on the matter. It is the
L Q Jones house; it is not unsightly, but just like the Yarborough house on B between
7th and.8th; it it was a tumble down struc ure or something of that sort I would expeot
council to say no. My lot is just within the fire district.
Mr. Wharton: How would you move it over Avenue B without tearing up the paving.
Mr. Miller: I understand from Mr. Yarborough that he oan do it. He is moving building*
all the time; that's his business.
Mr. Ralsto*,: I can't see these matters should keep ooming before oo.uoil. I notioed 0om
interviews the other day from the fire ohief and the buildin
MW4.0.y1.c
ii
4,4
A210
Regular meeting May 4, 1916.
was afaaid to meet on April 27th; and the fire ohief said he was going to quit thd'l.3;rs
es
district. We have a mayor to enforoe the laws and an inspator to Jesus permits, and.•&
fire chief to look after the fire limits. If all of these matters have to come before
oounoil we had better lay some of these men off. All these briok bats and bouquets
being handed to us by our friends are hardly deserved.
Mr. Erfert: The president adjourned oounoil until last Thursday and you didn't meet and
I say again that you had "cold feet". There were people herew ith their attorneys
and witnesses.
Mr. Ralston: What does the law say?
Mr. Erfert: We have never workded under that law.
Mr. Ralston: What does it say? Can we or oan we not?
Mr. Erfert: We can.
Mr. Ralston: If we oan what is the big row about?
Fire Chief: I certainly agree with Mr. Ralston. If the laws can not be enforced we
ought to ohange them. There is no provision that gives me power to stop a man violating
the law relative to moving a building in the fire district. The law says it oan not be
done.
Mr. Ralston: Then why is it not enforced without all this stuff coming before oounoil?
City Atty. It has been common practice to move these buildings and the question was
never raised until recently. Very likely the former building inspeotor had no knwdedge
of that law which is contained in the old 1910 ba.4 code. It was agitated reoently by
property owners in regard to moving the Gramling house when we looked it up. So far as
we can find, it is the law.
Mr. Erfert: D4dn't that law(present building code) repeal this one (1910 code),- the one
Mr. Walker is working under?
City Atty: I can't find any provision in there for that. There is nothing in your
your ordinance in conflict with the provision in regard to moving buildings. It has
never been repealed and is the law if it has not been repealed. There is nothing in
the present building code to repeal that part of the law because it is not in conflict
with this building code you are now working under.
Mr. Ralston: If that is the law, why don't the building department go on and enforoe it
instead of saying that the oity council has cold feet.
Mr. Erfert: Why was Dr. Gramling allowed to move his building?
Mr. Wharton: That is under your department.
Mr. Erfert: Was it in my department to revoke these permits?
Mr. Wharton: I think so.
Mr. Erfert: The mayor only has that power.
Mr. Wharton: Mr. Walker (building inspector) name to see me about it; I knew there was
such an ordinance and so informed Mr. Walker. I had a great deal of experience with it
while mayor.
Chief Chase: I think you will bear me out in the statement that before the Gramling house
was moved, I went to the building inspeotor, the building committeeman and the mayor and
done as muchas I oould do, whioh was to protest against moving the house. I did it
simply because I thought it was for the beat interest of the oity, not to have wooden
buildings moved in the fire district. If any building has been moved in the first
district since 1910 that I didn't enter a protest, it was because I didn't know about it
and the records will show I have objeoted and given reasons why for every violation
of the code relative to improper construction in the fire district. I spent a great
deal of time bringing in recommendations for removing buildings in the firs district put
up in violation of the law as temporary buildings for ninety days or so and they have
stood for many years. If there was anything else I oould do, I would do it, not beoause I
want to antagonize this council or any one else. My reason was to eventually clear out
the fire district of fire traps. You will never do that if you allow wooden buildings
to be moved from one location to another In the fire district.
Mr. Ralston: I think we all agree with you Chief.
Mr. Romfh: It seems that we come here and time and again this council is akked to do
something or to tell someone to do something. I have been in here since 1912 and have
to first time to so,vote, even on the tent here last winter. Every councilman is
besieged by people who want to violate the ordinanoes,- we can't aot as chief of polioe;
we have nothing to do with these ordinanoes. In this matter a committee was appointed
and they brought in their recom,..endations and the fire limits were extended after the
passage of an ordinanoe. These limits will hurt some people. Does the committee want to
go over the ground and say that the fire district is too large? So far as voting
here to violate ordinances, we have no right to do that, but if you want to repeal or
amend an ordinance, do it in accordance with your charter. But I get .tired of these
things coming up here ..very meeting night. I don't think the beads of the departments
' should ask it but enforoe the law so long as it is the law. As a member of council I am no
going to do so
Chairman: It is an easy matter to push these matters off and say that someone else has col
feet. I have never ducked a blow in four years. This come about,- the building inspeotor
has what he thinks is a oode and it is in book form. He was working under the iapression
that he had the law. In that there is nothing to contradict or say that these buildings
can be moved. However, in this old city node we find it and it has never been repealed. We
can't blame the building inspeotor as it should be in such shape that he knows where he is
This matter of cold feet is absolutely untrue.
Chief Chase: The city attorney made that remark before the Gramling lamed 'Was ; coved.
dr. Walker: When I was appointed building inspector I was given the 19i,4: oode.
9 Regular meeting Nay 4, 1916.
I was not familiar with all the ordinances and at the time these people oame here fot a perm
tc move the house I began to search for that part of it but failed to find it. I took the
ma ter up with Mr. Erfert and he said there was none in it. Had I known of this ordinance of
hioh should have been in my office, I would have followed it.
Sr. Ralston: Who did the city attorney make that remark to?
Chief: I oarried the book over and showed it to Mr. Walker and talked to the mayor and he s
had talked to Mr. Walker and thought Mr. Walker understood it.
Walker: That was after this per,it was issued.
4r. Ralston: Why didn't you revoke the permit?
r. Walker: The mayor has to revoke the permit's. NEW CITY CODE
City Attorney: I find that Mr. Walker is in the same dilemma that other city offioiers
Are, and will be frank to state that I am tiometimee at a lose. The last time the city's la
evere codified was in 1910 and sinoe that time several hundred ordinances have been passed,
Ocattered through seven or githt minute books which are not indexed. It is urgent that a ne
cl.ty oode be prepared and published, bringing the laws down to date. If that was done I
fusel there would be little trouble in reference to proper enforoement of the laws. To do tha
'it will be necessary to put a man in the clerk's office for two or three months to go throu
Ithe records and by a process of elimination work it out. I oan get a man for $75 per month
;hay two months, who is a lawyer and will work it out.
Moved by E. C. Romfh, seconded by L. T. Highleyman that the oity attorney be authorized
tab employ a man to codify the oity laws. Motion oarried.
Sr. G. L. Miller: You can see that a layman is apt to be confused if the oity officials
,don't know the oode themselves. There is evidently a distinct conflict. Certainly a layma:
is not supposed to know and I had no idea that I was going to provoke a general discussion
esking for this permit. If 1 was moving this building further into the fire limits it ehoul�
snot be given but as I am moving it further out, and almoetcoutside the fire limits, I thong:
I stood some chance of securing the permit.
Ur. ealston: It is Mr. Milier's tough luck that the-;4ie-4e- hie lot is not abut two block
further out. In order to obviate any possible misunderstanding I move that It is the sense
council that this particular part of the code be rigidly enforced. Motion was not
seconded.
Mr. Erfert: I am glad that this came up beoaus it will result in getting our laws in book
form. I have been talking about it for three years. That building could have been stopped j
well as the rest of them and if this building is moved and we have a guarantee and bond,
covering all damages on the streets (they are moving one now on the Boulevard) I don't see
where anything- will be damaged. You let one man move, why not let these two move and
then saw them all off?
er. Ralston: You keep saying "You have done this" The building department is supposed to
enforce those laws.
• Mr. Wharton: It is in your depertraent.
Mr. Erfert: I saw nove the house and put up the concrete hotel. I am like Mr. McDonald was
about using some discretion.
:.r. Ralston: You have used it already,- you have not enforced that ordinance.
Mr. Romfh: There is no objection to moving the building if mhe will move it outside the fi
limits. You can't let Miller put a house there and not allow the next man
1910,
id he
or
y
t
of
t as
Mr. Erfert: You have already done it.
:ter. Romfh: I will not stop :dr. Miller or get out a warrant for him.
wr. Highleyman: I think Mr. Miller's request is entirely up to the mayor.
Mayor: I can't give permission to move a wooden building from one part of the fire distriot
to another unless you change the ordinance.
Ir. Highleyman: 6o far as I am concerned, we passed a fire limit ordinanoe, so thattwe would
have better fire protection and if you are going to switch houses around the ordA,nanoe is no
good, but since we have the ordinance I think we should stick to it. The mayor -is enforcing
the ordinance and I don't see where we have anything to do with it. This is not an
execttive body
Chief Chase: Would it not be in order for the city authorities with this power to grant
and revoke, to let that house of Gramling's go back to where it was or get out of the fire
district? Why shouldn't they be made to put it back where it was and then made to move the
hoe o t of the fire district?
er. Romfh: There is nothing before council and I arise to a point of order. We have the
ordinances of record and to take the timeof oouncil discussing whether we will or will not
is only wasting time. If anyone leas an amendment or new 'ordinance to introduce, all right.
I feel the ordinance should be absolutely enforced. There was no protest from the propert
owners to the fire limit ordinanoe. Of course it will hurt somebody.
Mr. Highleyman: If one got by that is no reason someone else should.
Chairman: Mt. Miller, you have heard counoil's expressions on the matter.
H
.�.w.rwn+ux .!'' 477' F..,,e } r �} �1 '•R,rG}b. r trtl�':
rift e`*'+Y`i
1
MBE
ME
IIEPPRIPIIIlPIN'IR'IIiIh TI RRliPl
rse
•
Regular meeting May 4, 1916.
FRANCHISE AMERICAN TELEPHONE AND TELEGRAPH COMPANY.
Councilman H. G. Ralston introduoed the following ordinance:
Agit
ORDINANCE NO.
AN ORDINANCE GRANTING PERMISSION TO THE AMERICAN TELEPHONE
AND TELEGRAPH COMPANY, TO CONSTRUCT, OPERATE AND MAINTAIN
LINES OF TELEPHONE AND TELEGRAPH UPON, ALONG, ACROSS,
OVER AND UNDER THE PUBLIC ROADS, STREETS, AND HIGHWAYS OF
THE CITY OF MIAMI, FLORIDA, UNDER TERMS SPECIFIED THEREIN.
Mr. Romfh: The committee on this matter had a meeting. They ask for streets
all over the city. It is for long distanoe phones only and they agreed that they would
put up a oash bond whenever they wanted to open a street and that the oity had the
right to compel them to go underground and they would give us notice whenever they
wanted to build a line. The city engineer will make recommendations as to the cost of
repairing the streets and they will deposit the oash bond with a Miami Bank and we
will use the cash to repair the streets. We have not had opportunity to look over
the ordinanoe, that is the legal part of it,- we presume the oity attorney as as we
met with him.
Atty. Bowen, representing the Company: In view of the faot that the day of the
eleotion is fixed in the ordinance, we would like for oounoil, in order to put .it on
the move, that the ordinance be given first and second reading to night. I have gone
over it with the local telephone oompany, and it is drawn, with the exception of "
Section 3 which was redrafted this evening after a conference with members of
council and the local telephone oompany have no objeotion to it, as they express
themselves to us. It will not be used as a local telephone exohange. The purpose is
to render long distance service so there will be no conflicts under this franchise
with the rights of the local company.
Moved by F. H. Wharton, seconded by H. G. Ralston that ordinanoe No. 211 be given
first reading and read in full. Motion oarried. The ordinanoe was read in full.
Moved by H. G. Ralston, seconded by C. F. Filer that Ordinance No. 211,be given second
reading and read by title only. Motion oarried. The ordinance was read by title only.
REWARD FOR APPREHENSION OF THIEF OF ENTERED WALKER'S JEWELRY STORE
Mr. Filer: This matter was referred to the mayor and myself, se to who is entitled
to the reward. I have seen the chief and the sergeant and Mr. Russell and from what 1
dan learn, Patrolman Russell is entitled to the full amount of,the reward. The arrest
and conviction was made by him unassisted by anyone,-6 the man brought down to the
station with no information outside of what he got himself. He was not aided by anyone
Chairman: You wculd recommend that the oounoil instruct the chief of police to see
that Patrolman Russell receives the entire reward?
Mr. Filer, yes, sir, and I move, seconded by Mr. Ralston, that the chief of police be
notified to see that Mr. Russell is given this reward of 6100. for the arrest of
the man who burglarized Walker's Jewelry Store. Motion carried.
CHARGES AGAINST LIEUTENANT OF POLICE J. D. DORMAN
.r. Filer: I met with the mayor in this investigation and I oonour in the mayor's
report.
NETT' HOSPITAL BIDS FOR CONSTRUCTION
Mr. Highleyman: I met Architect Geiger this afternoon who told me that he had talked
with a number of contractors in regard to the hospital and they will not be able to
bid on the part of be built, by May 18th and the Srohitect said he would hardly be
ready before May 25th and it would be better if we made it even a week later.
Moved by L. T. Highleyman, seconded by C. F. Filer, that we extend the time for
receiving bids on the new hospital until the first week in June. Motion carried.
LIVE STOCK SANITARY DEPARTMENT
Mr. Highleyman stated that he is now forced to hire outside teams to keep up with
the work of garbage oolleotion, eto. and wanted to purchase one or two mules.
On motion of H. G. Ralston, seconded by F. H. Wharton, the Sanitary Committeeman was
authorized to purchase one or two mules. Motion carried.
BRIDGES OVER THE MIAMI RIVER MOVING OLD TWELFTH STREET BRIDGE TO FIFTH STREET
The clerk read the following communication:
Miami, May 3, 1916.
:nor. F. H. Wharton,
Committeeman on Streets
Dear Sir:
Referring to our conversation of yesterday, relative to the oonstruotion of
a bridge at 5th Street over the Miami River using the swing span now standing at
l2th Street, I desire to oL11 your attention to the fact that this matter should
be attended to before we complete the construction of the 12th Street bridge as the
contract for that work calls for the dismantling of the old swing span when the
temporary bridge is removed. If the council deeires,that I should investigate the
construction of such a bridge at 5th Street, my existing contract with the oity should,
be extended to cover the work and I should aleo be instruoted to take the matter up
with the War Department with a view of obtaining a permit.
Yours very truly,
W. J. Eaokley."
Mn. tWharton : In tali jng to grl Kaokleyyabout t( l F3s�►. ► ? A` r9n i.
fairly good bridge for about 0A000.
:'.•...'J..; .:r"3! .4.Y;r�:� ya.n A} 5;.�:Sa G;• 4. .`� .�
A
98 Regular meeting May 4, 1916.
I thirk this was up before I oame on the oounoil. I don't know what the aentiMent'ie. I
would recommend that it be taken up by the bridge engineers and see., if we Oa get a permit
and have the preliminary work arranged for if we do feel that we can utilize the old brid@
for use at 5th Street and then we will be ready to do it.
Moved by H. G. Ralston, seconded by E. C Romfh that we find out from Major Ladue if we
can use the old span at 5th Street. Motion carried.
Mr. Romfh: I don't think it would be neoeasary to have the bridge engineers do it. The oit
engineer could do that work.
Engr. Klyce: Yes, I oan do that.
Mr. Wharton: The bridge engineers would be in position to have it done more cheaply than
other engineers; their fee would be only $250.
Mr. Romfh: I don't think so; the contraotor is right here.
Wr. Wharton: We are perfeotly willing and prefer it that,way.
STORM SEWER DISTRICT NO. 8
The Hon. City Council,
Miami, Florida.
Gentlemen:
"Miami, May 4, 1916.
Herewith I am submitting plans for storm sewer district No. 8, which it is
necessary to oonstruot on 7th St and Avenue G before the permanent paving is put down.
This property is of such a class that storm sewers of smaller size would answer for the
present, but since it would only reduce the cost about one third, I have not felt
justified in estimating on the smaller sizes. The construction of this storm sewer will
necessitate the building of about 2500 feet of sanitary sewer parallelling the storm aewe
since it will be impossible for house connections to pass either over or under the storm
sewer. This will make the approximate assessment per lot in the storm sewer dietriot
about 480 per lot.
Respectfully submitted,
B. H. Klyce,
City Engineer".
Mr. Romfh: Will the property stand the assessment, in addition to the assessment for perm
paving?
Mr. Klyce: Some of the lots are assessed at 4500. and the approximate cost for the Sewer
and paving will be 4287. per fifty foot lot, so the assessment will have to be raised.
Mr. Romfh: Then it will be necessary to hold up until we get our assessment in August,
as the oharter prohibits an assessment of more than Sop of the assessed value of the prop
The matter of running the storm sewers in connection with the sanitary sewers was discuss
and the engineer stated that the cost to run the storm sewers through the side streets la
on, which would be necessary, would be exoeesive.
ent
rty.
d
er
Mr. Highleyman: Has anything been done about draining the Miami Avenue Dietriot?
Mr. Klyce: I have about completed plans for the sanitary sewer system in that aeotion, but
have not figured out the storm sewers altogether.
EXTENSION OF FIRE MAINS TO BUENA VISTA
Mr. Romfh: What has been done about extending the fire mains to Buena Vista?
Mr. Hefty: The Water Co. aaya they are readyto make the extension under the usual oonditicna;
they have a lot of work now that ',Ir. Klyce is pushing them on and as soon as they get that done
they will go to Buena Vista. I have also male arrangements to put in some water faoilties
on the southeide near the school. The Water Co. seem willing to go ahead but they have been
pushed by our street department.
Mr. Romfh: We should get water out Biscayne Drive and a 6 in main to Buena Vista.
dr. Hefty: We have a four inch main but it is only to Broadmoor. They will get after that
and their representative has said it is satisfactory for them to go ahead.
Mr. Klyce: I think they are going to put a large main out Avenue D extension for the railway
shops.
Mr. Hefty: The manager says they are willing to put in a six inch main so they will not
have to change it. About these houses in Lawrence estate that the Tatung are building,
and the sewers being constructed over the city, I don't know whether they will build the
water mains and we will have to guarantee them interest.
i.r. Klyce: I think Mr. Tatum has arranged for that.
Mr. Hefty: I think not.. He told me today he had not and was expecting the oity to do something
Mr. Romfh: I think he has arranged with the Water Company.
SETmING TIME FOR HEI NG COMPLAINTS HIGHWAY IMPROVEMENTS #33 to 51 INCLUSIVE •
Mr. Wharton: 0n these street improvements, we passed resolutions to hear complaints on
April 27th but did not have the meeting, so it will be necessary to reaoind those resolutions
and pass new ones authorizing; the clerk to advertise a meeting to hear complaints: I want
to introduce this resolution resoinding the former resolutions authorizing this advertieiag
and also to introduce these resolutions authorizing the clerk to advertise for oomplaints
to be heard at our next regular ime€.ting,• on Ape4,1-18e May 18th:
RESOLUTION NO. 1045
Whereas, on April 20, 1916, the city council of the oity of Miami, Florida, passed
and adopted resolutions Nos. 1021-A to 1040-A, both inolusive, authorizing., end directing 'the
oity clerk of said city to cause to be published at least one time, in the Miami Herald,..
newspaper published in the oity of Miami, Florida, a notice stating that at , , ; eet.1,x ., !
iti'n��;' ads
!r wiimxatmnN•
II 401 I, jIIIIMf orit 4
A210
Regular meeting May 4, 1916.
the city council to be held on the 27th day of April 1916, at 8 o'clock p.m., said
oity council would hear the remonstrances of all persons interested to the oonfirmatiOfl,
of resolutions ordering Highway Improvements 33 to 51 inclusive; and
Whereas, said city council failed to meet on Spril 27, 1918, to hear said remon-
strances:
Now, Therefore, Be It Resolved, By the City Council of the City of Miami, Florida,
that Resolutions Noe. 1021-A to 1040-A, be and the same are hereby reaoinded.
Passed and adopted this 4th day of May, 1916..
Attest:
W. B. Moore,
Caspar Hefty,
President City Counoil
City Clerk.
Moved „y F. H. Wharton, seconded by H. G. Ralston, that Resolution No. 1045 be adopted.
On roll oall all vote`s yes.
RESOLUTION NO. A-1021 May
District 33, authorizing advertisement for remonatranoes to be heard at 8 P.M. MOWS,
18,
1916
RESOLUTION A-1022
District 34, authorizing advertisement for remonatranoes to be heard at 8 p.m. ApSit May
1 b, 1916.
District
District
District
District
District
District
District
District
District
District
RESOLUTION NO. A-1023
35, authorizing advertisement for remonstrances
RESOLUTION NO. A-1024
36, authorizing advertisement for remonstrances
Resolution No. a-1025
3V, authorizing adaeittiement for remonstrances to be beard
Resolution No. A-1026
38, authorizing advertisement for remonstrances to be heard
Resolution No. A-1027
39, authorizing advertisement for remonstrances to be heard
Resolution No. A-1028
40, authorizing advertisement for remonatranoes to be heard
Resolution No. A-1029
41, authorizing advertisement for remonstrances to be heard
Resolution No. A-1030
42, authorizing advertisement for remonstrances to be heard
Resolution No. A-1032
43, authorizing 4:vertisement for remonstrances to be heard
Resolution No. A-1033
44, authorizing advertisement for remonstrances to be heard
Resolution No. A01034
District 45, authorizing advertisement for remonstrances to be heard
Resolution No. A-1035
District 46, authorizing advertisement for hearing
Resolution No. A-1036
District 47, authorizing advertisement for hearing
Resolution No. A-1037
District 48, authorizing advertisement for hearing
Resolution No. A-1038
District 49, authorizing advertisement for hea ink;
Resolution No. A-1039
May
to be heard 8 p.m.X032Z18,1916
May
to be heard 8 p.m. *pxtt 8,1916
May
8 p . m . xk10Z118 ,1916
May
8 p.m.*p;X l8,1916
May
8 p.n.ZpUZ18,1916
May
8 p.m.A018,1916
May
8 p.m.tpx$t18,1916
May
8 p.m.kp4118,1916
May
8 p.m.Apxt118,1916
May
8 p.m.Apx1118,1916
May
8 p.m./Z21t18,1916
May
remonstrances 8 p.m. April 18,1916
remonatranoes 8 p.m. May 18,1916
remonatranoes 8 p.m.May 18,1916
remonstrances 8up.m.May 18,1916
District 50, authorizing advertisement for hest.ng*remonstrances 8 p.m. May 18,1916
14.
Resolution No. A-1040
District No. 51, auhtorizing advertisement for homing remonatranoes 8 p.m, May 18,19
Move. by E. C. Romfh, seconded by L. T. Highleyman tit tat resolutions Nora.aA .O
A-1023, A1024, A-1025, A-1026, A-1027, A-1028, A'40,$.94 A-1030, A-4032,....4- .O
A-1035, A-1036, A-1037, A-1038, A-1039, A-1040 be.449pte4 0ai x0u4,9#
" dirt
Street taxes,
Taxes collected by City Atty.
Refund by F G Proudfoot,
Sale of fertilizer, (street dept)
'faxes, 1913-1914
1915
0 U Regular meeting of Council May 4, 1916.
REPORTS FOR THE MONTH OF APRIL 1916
City Clerk
Automobile and motoroyole licenses, ;135.75
Business licenses, 740.25.
Dog " 2.00
Cemetery deeds, 100.00
Grave permits, 76.00
Fines and forfeitures, 1395.25
Interest, Banks $135.18, Certificates $711.01 846.19
Sanutary colleotiona, 888.70
Street improvement liens, sewers, 5116.89
Miami Hock paving, 2332.28
Building inspectors collections, 270.50
Hospital collections, 120.75
Permanent paving oolleotions, 8,682.70
Sidewalk oolleotions, 1000.19
Lot cleaning, 94..55
Sale of rock, 479.39
" 53.38
100.00
213.95
205.99
65.20
83.50
177 67
82,999.18
56,181.26
Buildinc ins ctor reported 81 permits issued for buildings valued at 110,118. with
fees of$270.50 collected.
The chief of police reported 294 arrests, 82 discharged, fines $1398.25, nukber days work
of prisoners 340, number days feeding 537, oost of deed 268.50
The Sexton of the City Cemetery reported 20 graves prepared, fees $76 and 4 lots sold for
$,100 .
The City engineer reported 7,463 cans of garbage, 654 lOade of trash and 47 dogs burned
at the incinerator. 16 3-4 cords of wood used.
The Health officer made his report showing 15 white and 10 black births; 13 white and 8
black, deaths; two arrestemade for failure to comply with stable and privy ordinances;
milk iairiee in satisfactory condition
CLAIM OF MATTHEW ELSER TO A STRIP OF GROUND AT THE FOOT OF•TWELFTH STREET ALONG THE BAY
The clerk read a letter flora Price & Eyles, attorneys, representing Mr. Eller, advising t
the city auditor had sent Mr. Elser a bill for the paving of the intersection of
l2th Street in front of his property at the foot of that Street and malting a rebuttal
olaim against the city for the value of the land which it is claimed the oity had
appropriated and offering to compromise with the city.
Mr. Ronfh stated that the ground has been used for street purposes for 15 to 18 years.
0n motion of H G Ralston, seconded .y L. T. Highieyman, the communication was turned over
to city attorney Cason for investigation and report at next meeting.
STREET LIGHTS ALONG LAWRENCE DRIVE FROM l2th to 25th STREET
Councilman Wharton reported that he had ordered these lights placed, in response to a
petition from the property owners. On motion duly made and carried the notion of Mr. Whar
was approved. Eleven lights to be placed.
STREET LIGHTS ON JOHNSON STREET
Mr. Wharton stated that he had also ordered two 1 ghts placed on this street in r4sponae
petition, and on motion duly made and oarried the notion was approved.
STREET LIGHTS IN COLORED TOWN
Mr. Wharton stated that 25 or 30 street lights are badly needed in Colored Town but thoug
it beet to hold up until the new budget is prepared. Council seemed to be of the opinion
that the lights should be placed.
ESTIMATES FOR THE MONTH OF MIRI APRIL
Estimates for contract work during April, approved.by the City Engineer and Street
Committeeman for:
Sewer Work, J. J. Quinn Company, amount $5,432.60
Street Work, Freedlund Conet. & Supply Co. 667.95
t..+.ar.�•jyry,
Sidewalks, F. L. Devane,
Street Work, R. B. Fickle,
Sidewalks, Dubai & Ashworth,
571.05
1591.69
508.38
Street Work, Freedlund Conet. & Supply Co.2575.12
were read by the clerk, and on motion duly made and oarried, the estimates were received
and the auditor instructed to draw vouchers in payment.
SALARY OF BRIDGE TENDER
Mr. Wharton stated that Fred W Curtis,, one of the bridge tender* had request d g r .;4Q
in salaryfrom 60 to 75. per month and thought the rsqueat ah
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Regular meeting May 4, 1916.
of the fact that all the bridge tenders exoept Curtis are breoeiving $754
On motion F. H. Wharton, seoonded E. O. Romfh, the salary of Fred W. Curtis, bridge
tender, was made $75. per month eff eotive May 1, 1916. Motion oarried.*
SUB -DIVISIONS NORTHERN BOULEVARD TRACT NO. 2
Councilman Wharton introduced the following resolution
RESOLUTION No. 1045-A,
Be It Resolved by the city oounoil of the City of Miami, Florida:
Seotion 1: That the map or plat of North rn Boulevard Traot No. 2, made by
Rioheson Love, February 26, 1914, being a sub -division of part Nw* SW k► 25 53 41
Dade County, Florida, this day.presonted to the oity council be, and the same is,
hereby approved.
Seotion 2: The president of the city oounoil and city olerk are hereby direoted
to endorse this approval under the -seal of the oity on said plat.
Passed and adopted this 4th day of May, 1916.
Attest:
W. B. Moore,
City Clerk.
Moved by E. C. Romfh, seconded by L. T. Highleyman that Resolution No. 1045-A be
adopted. On roll oall all voted yes.
PAY ROLLS FOR THE MONTH OF vM(L"i! APRIL 1916
Caspar Hefty
President City Council
The monthly rolls for April were presented by the clerk, for each department, and
checked over by the committeemen of said departments. The polioe department roll.
showing offioer Hardie at $90. per month was oorreoted to show that officer at 75.
per month, he having been in service only einoe February. The roll showing the
street tax collector at $90. per month was corrected to show the salary at $75.
that being the rate heretofore paid.
The Fire department roll :;g4rried a man by name McKee and for good and sufficient reasons
oounoil thought he should be elminated
Committeeman on Fire stated that he had always left the appointments with the Fire Chief
but thought the Chief should bring in the appointments for oonfirmation by the council.
Mr. Romfh thought no oritioism was due but that the Chief should.00nsult the oommitteema
0n Motion duly made and oarried, the rolls for April, 1916, were approved and ordered
paid.
HARBOR IMPROVEMENTS DOCK CONSTRUCTION DURING APRIL
Engineer Randolph filed his estimate No. 2-H, under date May 1, 1916, showing that
there is due Hillyer & Sperring Co. $4713.12.for dock work during April. The estimate
was approved by Committeeman on Parks and Docks H. G. Ralston and on motion duly
made and carried, the auditor was instructed to draw a vouoher in payment.
MUNICIPAL RAILWAY RIGHT OF WAY OPINION OF CITY ATTORNEY AND BILL FOR EXTRA SERVICES
IN EXAMINATION OF TITLE TO PROPERTY ACQUIRED BY THE CITY FOR THE RIGHT OF WAY ETC.
"Miami, Florida, April 29, 1916.
"Mr. H. G. Ralston,
Committeeman on Wharves and Docks,
Miami, Florida.
Dear Sir: -
Pursuant to your instruotions I have examined abstraots oov ,firing the follow
ing described property:
S 50' of lots 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 of blook 17
8 50' of lots 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 block 18
S 50' of lots 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, of blook 19
8 100 ' of lots 1 and 2, g 19
S 50' of lots 1, 4 and 5, a 20 '
N 25' of lot 18 and W 40 ' of N 25 ft of lot 19, block 19
All of lots 10, 11 and 12 and N of lot 13, blook 17
All of lots 16 and 17 of blook 1
Lot 20 of blook 18
all of said property lying and being in the City of Miami, North.
I will not attempt to give a detail report of examination covering various titles as
they are shown in twenty two separate abstraots, and a written opinion thereon would
be too cumbersome for practical purposed. In almost every instano0,a11 lots were.
encumbered with one or more mortgages whioh hadaa
'to be,relesed in .order to give good
title to the city. Also, in a great many instanoee, sewer liens and sidewalk Bent
had to be taken pare of. In a few of the titles there are slight irrelaritiep Whick
are teohAioal flaws in the title, but in most inet . oes tree .teohfl o4; s' aW '4RL d.
not be removed withour going to oonsidera'�le expense and troubl4+:,°:l ,t#A1' a 'efore;:,4`
not insisted on this extra precaution being tAkei14e the -{}0,ne rat �e444
instance was low and any attempt to force, the owner A9 0#0,04071.P
flaws would not have been praotioal.
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Regular meetivg May 4, 1918.
It is my opinion that said abstraota, together with the atitiahott'ons of-"Outaatandi
mortgages whioh have been filed and warranty deeds from the individuals in eaoh inattanOe
to the oity of Miami, now vests in the oity of Miami a good, fee simple title. ooVering
the property above desoribed, with -the exception of the south 175 feet of let't 16 And 17
of blook 19, whioh have been deeded to the School Board of Dade County, Florida, in exoh-
for the south 100 feet of lots 1 and 2 and all of lot 3 of said blook 19.
All of the deeds to the oity of Miami, have been recorded and contain a provision
which permits the original owner aooess to the right of way of the proposed municipal
railway running across said property.
The City now owns, as a result of purohase of the above described property, a
strip of land running across the south 25 feet of the north tier of lots in blooka
17, 18, 19 and 20 North, and also all of lots 10, 11 and 19 of 17 North and the north
25 feet of lot 13 of blook 17; 16, 17, 18 and 19 of block 19 and all of lot,20 of blook
18.
Kindly instruct me with referenoe to disposition to be made of abatraots and plats
whioh I hold in my possession.
As before
was mortgaged or
amount of detail
taxes, eto.
I enclose
of recording exp
stated, praotically all of the property oovered in the above description
otherwise enoumbered by liens, eto. and it had required an infinite
work to close all of the traneaotiona and to see to the payment of bank
bill herewith for special aervioes, together with an itemised statement
enees oonneoted therewith.
Yours truly,
F. W. Cason,
City Attorney.
The city attorney presented hie bill in oonneotion with the matter as follows:
Fee for services, 4350.
Revenue stamps purchased, ,Ml.
Fee of Clerk Cirouit Court, recording deeds, eto. 59.a5
$430.25
The bill was approved by Councilman Ralston and on motion duly made and oarried the
auditor was instructed to draw a voucher in payment.
MUNICIPAL RAILWAY RIGHT OF WAY REMOVAL OF OBSTRUCTIONS ON SAME (File 132)
"Miami, May 4, 1916.
Mr. H. G. Ralston,
Committeeman on Parke and Docks,
City 0f Miami, Fla.
Dear Sir: -
Having completed the listing' of obstructions to be found on the munioipal
railroad right of way I submit you the enoloeed report.
I would suggest that in advertising for bids for the olearing of this right
way one contract be made to cover the removal of all trees and stumps and all necessary
grubbing, and separate contracts to oover the moving of each builidkng. I make this
suggestion oeuauec 01 uuo Iavu uuttu cue uUtuvoi vi vvIvu.a.o• uv we uge u.u:.@►
....�� uo Lao .mr,.,o,.., mignt make it impossible for some of the local oontraotore to bid,
on the work if it was all let as one contract, tnus eliminating a certain amount of
desirable competition.
Awaiting your furtner instructions in this matter I am,
very truly,
S. W. Randolph,
neaiaent Engineer".
mr. Ralston) In making our estimates for the railway, we ailoweu fluUU roc incluentala.
It will nos. cost that but we will have to hula a fence baor of tne 2nd Street School.
moves by H. U. Ralston, seoonaea by L. T. Hignieyman that Mr. Randolph be autnorised to
advertise for bids for moving tne obstructions on the railway right of way., in lane
witn his suggestions. Motion oarried.
BAY FRONT IMPROVEMENTS EXTENSION OF BOULEVARD FROM FIRST STREET TO MIRAMAR
"Miami, lrloriaa, April 8, 1916.
Mr. H. L . Ralston,
Committeeman on Parke ana Dooxe,
Miami, yloriaa.
Dear Sir: -
Pursuant to your request for a report upon the extension of Bieoayne Drive,
otnerwise known as tne Boulevard, as proposea in a recent petition to tiie oity council,
tne dayeide Improvement Association, and upon tne oonetruotion of a sea wall by tne same
Aseooiation, oontiguous to the north line of the municipal door property on Bieoayne Day
insorar as these two questions relate to the proper developement or tne door pro;eot, we
resgeatruliy submit the following:
Tne nortn line of Bay Street prosuaea into Biscayne Bay, whlon is tno aoutae
boundary of tne Baysiae Improvement Association's property, mares toe nortnern boundary
or the nortnermoet municipal slip wnlun has been planned for future deve opement. When
the shipping interests or the city shall have reaches sufficient proportions to jte'.zy
developement of tn..e slip a vertical bulxneaa along tne boundary.line in question will b
required to arrora the proper wiatn of deep water in tne slip. Until the need for thj.e
enlargement becomes apparent hswever, tne depth of water along this. line ip,, ammateTJ41,
instead of oompelling the tsaysiae improvement Aseooiation to oonetruot at the pr'eeent.ti
a vertical bulkhead to retain the soutueru edge ox trials* rill, the oaty sfou.id allow the
to build a battered wail with its slope extending over the boundary Lana bmtween.t40
two properties, a considerable saving could be erlected by the aforementioned.aseoaa.a;io
lr tnen the city ehoula desire to lessen the buraens of thla inoipient enyerpripe-until
its fui.ure developement seems to justliy the neaviei eApeneeincident to the,:oonetxuotio
of a vertioal bulkhead we see no roason why they should not be .al,.owed at.tn+c. p;eeent
time to enorcaoh upon city propertiy for tne purpose of protecting their.propery from
erosion, provides that it snail prove possible for the oity to enter into a #b4.gai4
ne
4
417
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Ftegdlar meeting May 4, 9ie,.
enforceable agreement, wnerein tar said association Mail agree ti'd oitibil t lei:'
enoroaonu►ente at any future date tnat tney may prove detrimental . to the .rote Bets ci
city in the furtner developement of the harbor project.
For the purpose of disoussing more olearly the suggested extexaion of the JBouleltar4.4.
1 have prepares a small blue print sketon wtio. I enoioee herew,t•oaex•'P'tae-ahaded- ►osoie;,
of tne sketch indicate the property which the city has secured for the furtherance of
its deep water plane. The plan of streets and dimensions shown, were secured.from the
city engineers office. Snoula the city desire to proviae a soutriern outlet for tie
Boulevard wnion the Bayside Improvement Association proposes to oonetruot, either by
the extensioon of Biscayne Drive at its present wiatn of 50 feet or by widening to
100 feet as well as extending, we feel tnat born may be done witinoul detriment to the doo4
plans if tne following recommendations are adhered to.
It tne Joulevara is to be extenaea witnout wiaening we recomiuend tnat tne present
line be oontinued until. the south line of Dann Street proauoed eastward is reacted. At
this point thestreet should ourve to tne eastward in tne following manner. the curve
enouia be bounaea by two concentric aros having central angles of ninety degrees, the
eaetermoet of which shall beoome tangent to the north line of Bay Street roauoed, at a4
poamit 254.4 feet from the east line of tne Boulevard proauoed, ana perpendicular tnereto.
rnis curve is represented on the enoiosea sketch by the two inside dotted aros.
if the Boulevard is to be widened to a width of one hundred feet also, the curve
should also begin at the intereeation of tne present line of tne Boulevard witn the
eoutn line of Dann Street proauoed. The additional fifty feet should be added to the
east of the present boundary of the street. Tne curve shouia be bounced by two
oonoentric ninety degree aros, the eastermost having the same radius as the aro
prescribed above, ana being tangent to tne same nortn line of Bay Street proauoed. This
ours is represented on the sketch by the two outside douued lines.
Hespeotfu.iy aublitted
lsnam Randolph & Co.
By S.n.nandolpn,
resident Etgineer,"
Moved by H. U. Hal.aton, seconded by L. T. Hignleyman that the city attorney taxe tn.e
:atter up with tne owner or the piece of property on the north of tne oityis dooms
property ana if he can get this owner to enter into a binding legai agreement to remove
this wall when tne oiuy demands, tnat the city allow the wall to be built temporarily.
Motion carried. (Papers to oily atty. May 16,1B14
Atty. Cason: 1 tnini it oan be done.
Moved by H. u. Ralston, seconded by L. T. Fign.i.eyman, tnat the o.ierx notify the Bayside
improvement Association tnat tne City Council is willing to oonneot witn tneir Miramar
Boulevard ana willing to oarry tne boulevard tnrougn the city Dock property;'10U feet.
in wiatn, to Second Street, with the distinct unaerstanuing that it is done accoraing
to tne recommendations submitted by tne Engineers, lenam itanamlph & Co. Motion oarrlea.
'JUMPLAi» i OF UNION LABOtt 'rriAi BOWErt3 SUulr1Lntu DFEDUiNe COMPANY NOT EMPLOY1JNU
LOuAL UNION MEN IN 'riElrt WOrtK or HAmbUn IMPmUvEmEnT FUrt THE Uiii
"Miami, Dla. May 4, 1916.
:dessrs. Isham Randolph & 0o.
mr. S. W. Randolph, Resident Engineer
Miami, Fla.
Dear Sir: -
Your letter May 3rd by courier, to hand and same is fully noted.
ReVarding the letter from the International Union of Steam and Operating
Engineers, Local #487, would say that if their secretary will forward us a list of
members, and their addressed, available for position as marine engineers, and oa,pable
of fulfilling such position, we will be glad to bear them in mind when we next have a
vacancy, which may be at any time.
In this connection would say that only last week we had a position open
for an engineer and immediately got in touch with a union man, who we knew was.
capable, been in our sefvice before, by name of E. J. Roberts, and wh9 had
applied to us for a position, as a union man. However, Mr. Roberts sent us,word
that he had just secured employment and for this reason regretted he could not
accept the position tendered.
Not knowing where to look for another union man, the local union having
never presented itself to us officially, by letter or otherwise, we were compelled to
hire the first local man we were able to seoure and give him a trial.
We can not understand why the union should refrain from taking the matter
up with us, or send us a lit of their applicants, for we would have been only too
glad to give a competent union man the position above referred to, had we had any
such applicants.
You of course are in a position to realize that we oould not, under
existing conditions, deliberately discharge our skilled employees, because they do not
belong to the union, thereby crippling our entire working foroe by breaking in union
labor, not entirely familiar with this kind of work, and getting behind on our oont act.
It was for this reason that we desired to begin withone union man at a t me,
but our inability to do so was due to the union itself, as above mentioned, and not to
any fault of our own.
In so far as the verbal statement made to Mr. Ralston, that some of our
employees are quite willing to join the local union but are not permitted to do so by
us, this is positively untrue, as no suoh orders emanated from this offioe, for we do
not pretent to exert any influenoe over our employees as to whatever organization
they may desire to join.
We really believe the truth of the matter is that although union agitators
have been aboard our dredges, at different times, expounding their-oause to our
employees, yet they all are perfectly satisfied with the wages and treatment they
reoeived at our hands and apparently refused to join.
As there is nothing in the contract sating that our employees must join
the union, but that we should employ available union labor, net that we should furnish
men to the union, the natural inferenoe is - that there ie nO union labor available for
our work covering all its skilled employees, unless we furnish them.
Yours very truly,
Gee, A. Wa1depk ,
.,Superipte? dke' t ,B0wer.s ,8,ou.Pr
j1.7' .Yar'ryi ta,.,;:1.a
NMI
Regular meeting May 4, 1916.
mr. Highleyman: I think it would be well to turn this overto the unioh4'td'het the t{trhi
names.
s23i the
Mr. Romfh: The contract doesn't say they sha l employ only union men but where they are
available. If we getour harbor work stopped there would certainly be great oritioiem.
Moved by C. F. Filer, seconded by E. C. Romfh, that the letter of the Bowers Southern
Dredging Company be sent to the looal union and they oertify to the Bowers Southern
Dredging Co. a list of the men available for the work. Motion parried. (Letter mailed to
Union May 14,1916)
DISPOSITION OF papers DEEDS MAPS ETC CONCERNING MUNICIPAL RAILWAY RIGHT OF WAY
Moved by H. G. Ralston, seconded by C. F. Filer, that the oity attorney turn over to the
city auditor all abetraote and other papers relating to the Municipal Railway right of wa'.
or the seawall north of the munioipal dock property. Motion oarried.
On Motion duly ma„e and oarried, council adjourned until Monday May 8, 1916, to take
up the case against Lieut. of Police J. D. Dorman.
Attest: President City Council
City Clerk.
On Monday L:ay 8, 1916, The Attorney For Dorman requested that the hearing by council be
postponed, and there being no other business to come before council, no meeting was held.
01141..
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